Married and divorced and still making music

How did your band come about?

Scott and I have known each other for more than half our lives. We were in a band prior to this one and when things went south on that front The Black Ryder was born.

What’s the best thing about being a duo?

It’s very fortunate that Scott and I see eye to eye on most things. We’ve been married and divorced, we’ve weathered many storms together and yet here we are still making music together. We love and respect each other. We both have our own specific visions for the kind of music that we want to make that compliments the other.

What’s the thinking behind vinyl releases?

Music just sounds better on vinyl. It’s much more magical and personal to listen to a ‘record’ on your record player than streaming through your laptop speakers.

Streaming and downloading has made music instantly accessible, which certainly has its benefits, but I also feel that the value of music has been lost along the way.  That’s not to say this is the case for everyone, there are plenty of people who are very passionate about music, but that’s why I feel that the vinyl format is so important because it is for the music lovers & enthusiasts. 

Listening to a ‘record’ is an experience. As a music lover & record collector I also love to see the artwork because it is the visual accompaniment to the music, that’s always interesting to me.

What does shoegaze mean to you?

It’s a term used to describe a certain type of music, wall of sound, musicians looking at their feet because they’re more than likely changing effects pedals and what not.  

I am very fortunate that I discovered a great variety of bands and music at a young age that no doubt shaped my musical tastes and influences. I wasn’t necessarily aware of genres and labels associated with the music as I was discovering, I’ve always just liked that I’ve liked and not thought too much about what to call it.

What are your main influences?

Life, living, experience, making mistakes, learning, getting out of your comfort zone, art, ‘The Dharma Bums’ (Jack Kerouac)

How do you feel about supporting the Jesus & Mary Chain?

I don’t think we could be happier about it really. I mean, it’s The Jesus and Mary Chain. They’ve written some of the greatest songs and albums in the history of great songs and albums. We have huge respect for their music therefore it is the finest honour to be joining them for their American tour. 

What’s your plan for the summer?

More than likely touring, and when we’re not touring we’ll be back to working on new music. Our third album is already underway and I know we both want to spend time working on new material. We run our own label ‘The Anti-Machine Machine’ so that’s something we will be busy developing. I finished a graphic design course last year and have some art projects I want to get started with, there’s also some film projects being discussed so I think it’s safe to say we’ll be busy.

See The Black Ryder play live at the Fleece on March 15. More info at: www.thefleece.co.uk/event/black-ryder-special-guests/