Oklahoma’s indie six-piece, the Uglysuit, are poised for a big 2010 break.  The band has been lauded for its excellent live performances; lucky for us, they’re playing Off Broadway tomorrow night (Wednesday, January 27th). Eleven spoke with drummer Crosby Bray about the Uglysuit’s upcoming album and the records in his current rotation.

the Uglysuit – Iceland

[Audio clip: view full post to listen]

What should we expect with the new album? How does it compare to your self-titled debut?

Crosby Bray:

Honestly, we’re not completely sure what to expect. Songs as we record them become something we never would have expected. Each one starts one way and ends totally different.  Something we do expect is a more expansive use of melody and instrumentation, hoping to create an even more vivid sound of happiness than the last record. The new record compares to the old one in the fact that we have had heaps of time to music come to us instead of us chase after it.

You’ve been likened to the likes of The Shins and Wilco, how do
you feel about these comparisons?

CB:

First of all, both of these bands are pioneers in what they do. So all in all its an honor to be compared to them.  We don’t know if we sound like them or not we just create what comes to us with no preconceived ideas or notions.  We’ve also been compared to the likes of Pink Floyd and Coldplay. So it really depends on how you take it.

As music blogs continue to influence the music scene more and more, do you feel listeners are more likely than ever to seek what they think they should like, rather than what they really like?

CB:

People are going to listen to what they want to listen to. Maybe some will be influenced by the blogs and radio but really people just want to listen to what feels right at the time.

Are you happy with where you are as a band? Where do you see The Uglysuit in three years and how may your sound evolve?

CB:

If we are playing music we are happy. Life as a musician and an Uglysuiter is always changing and trying, and taking it as it comes is just a part of it. So yes, we are happy in this crazy adventure they call “following the yellow brick road.” In three years the Uglysuit, will be celebrating the anniversary of you asking this question. Who knows where we will be in three years, but we all have hope we will be in a great career. Sound evolution comes with life experience and the atmosphere that we abide in.

Every day it seems another band is toying with aspects of electronica, will you guys ever test those waters?

CB:

Sure. We have and will.  Its just one more aspect to throw in. Its not like its never been done, but we don’t want to overuse it – just make it like another instrument in the mix. Honestly, we all have grown to really like the electronic realm. So yeah it’ll probably shine through.

The reviews of your live shows are impressive. How is this tour going? What is the typical pre-game routine?

CB:

This tour is just now starting, but so far so good  - we’re excited about the opportunities involved. Our pre-game routine is relax enjoy the other bands or a movie on the bus, and then scramble to find everyone when the time comes to play.

What bands are currently making an impression on you? What albums are in your current rotation?

CB:

Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros, Andrew Bird, The Dodos, Any Notwist album, Sin Fang Bous- Clangour, Crystal Castles, Birdy Nam Nam.

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