But we're not going to place blame. We're simply going to point out something's a-happenin and has been goin orn for nearly 12 months now but recently its pulled its socks up! But what is it? The edge of nu-metal, the pop hooks of glam and basically, the discontent of Chuck and Zack, cranked to warp speed soul basslines and displays the best of most people's parents' record collection. And it's crunching and crawling its way towards your home.
We're, well I'm, calling it D-Generation. Who cares what it's called. It's loud. It's slightly crazy. And in this instance it's from Southend (this years Aldershot!). You've already heard, seen and been enthralled by Kinesis, Reuben and Miss Black America - fellow British children of punk parents, who grew up in a time of ecstasy, dumb mancunians, terror, the Simpsons, American rock culture, and fight club. And Maggie T.
This band we're about to introduce you look kinda scary (Marilyn Manson would be proud!) and best of all they rock like they're on fire, burnt by the nu-nuclear sun..
We caught up with Smother drummer Dave to find out what they're about...
DiS: When DiS last saw you it was at In the City, the annual music industry fest, you were playing in a venue that was a bit like someones frontroom. Your singer had "DIE!" scrawled across his bare refugee-like chest.. is this the norm for your shows?
Yeah, always! Luke actually had DIET written on his chest but his guitar strap covered the T. We are always topless at gigs, but, as I am sure you have noticed, it's not to show off our lovely bodies!
DiS: The new single's out this week 'Square Wheels' (listen to it here in shops now, etc... it was released by Nathan McGough (infamous for working with the Happy Mondays and fans of Smothers Jetplane Landing), how did that relationship come about?
Nathan was called by a promoter who had seen us at a show in london. He was looking for another band to add to his roster, so he gave us a call and we set up a meeting before he had heard any of our stuff. He was on board after hearing the demo. Rock 'n' Roll!
DiS: The single itself seems like it's about the lack of logic in the world today, is that what you were trying to get across?
That is something that Luke would never answer. I've seen some of his lyric books.....there is some strange stuff in there! Put it this way, it'll make interesting reading if he commits suicide!
DiS: What do you reckon is the most illogical thing in the world today?
Luke's lyric books. Or questions in interviews when people say stuff like; "Q. Rolf Harris or Neil Buchannan? A. Who fucking cares?"
DiS: What's your hometown Southend like?
Southend is a typically run-down seaside town. I think it's absurd that people still come down from Croydon (for example) for the day to enjoy the atmosphere and beaches(!) of Southend. It makes you just wanna run up to them and say "Make a little extra effort and you'll be at Eastbourne?!?!"
DiS: The scene down in Southend seems to be pretty bangin with Engerica, Cars as Weapons, Resin, Redjetson... how do you explain this phenomenon?
The scene, actually in Southend, is absolute shite! It's gone from having around 4 venues to just 1 in the last two years. That's why so many more bands from Southend are coming up to London. They just don't have anywhere else to play. The quality of bands in Southend has always been good. Maybe this mass exodus of Southend bands playing in London will help them in the long run but as far as 'The Southend Scene' is concerned.....DEAD!
DiS: What new bands do you recommend people seek out?
There are a couple about at the moment. Norweigan rockers Span are a fucking awesome live act. We played a gig in Southend with The D4 and they put on a real fun show! Mclusky and Clearshot are great bands too.
DiS: What records have changed your lives?
I can only really answer this from my point of view so I would say:
Nirvana - All albums (Obvious reasons)
The Beach Boys - Pet Sounds (The perfect pop record)
Joy Division - Closer (A really passionate record. Great lyrics!)
Captain Beefheart and His Magic Band - Trout Mask Replica (A Challenge!)
DiS: The single has found its way onto daytime radio and had airplay on Mark and Lard, hows does that feel?
Great! We never even dreamed it would get as much airplay as it actually did. Steve Lamacq, John Kennedy, Ian Camfield, Mark & Lard and Zane Lowe have really given it a chance! Nice one!
DiS: What effect do you want your music to have on people?
As long as people enjoy the songs on record (for whatever reason) and they have a great time at the gigs, that will do me fine.
DiS: After the single, what happens next...?
We have a session on XFM on Thursday. We then have a show in London at the Bull & Gate on the 30th November. Then we are playing some shows over in Ireland at the beginning of December. Hopefully record the next release before the year is out.
...and we're hoping they come and play the DiS xmas party too on Dec 8th @ the Windmill too. To find out more visit smotherweb.com