They were named Rolling Stones Best Rock Act of 2009 and then they disappeared. Fortunately, Regular John have resurfaced in 2012 with their album "Strange Flowers." Undercover caught up for a chat with Regular John co-founder, frontman and guitarist Ryan Adamson.
UC : A lot of folks have asked you guys about the " Strange Flowers" album title. After a listen to the album I kind of think it's obvious. What about the first single Slume? Where does "Slume" come from and how does it relate to the lyrical theme?
RYAN A : Originally it was just a nonsense word we gave the song as a working title. Only after it was released did we learn that 'Sloom' means slumber, and the song happens to refer to sleeping forever, dreaming and going inward. It's weird, now with two albums done, I've noticed that escapism is
something I sing about a lot.
UC : So, Strange Flowers is out, it's received great reviews, Caleb (bass, vocals) has mentioned that after the massive success of the first album you guys didn't necessarily feel under a huge amount of pressure.
Just that you wanted to create an even better album. Do you think you have achieved that goal and why?
RYAN A : I think so. One reason that makes me think that, is that it turned out sounding nothing like what we originally set out to do. It was almost like at some point it stopped being a conscious effort and suddenly we were just mediums for the songs and sounds. It was a leap of faith I think - to be guided by that invisible hand -but it was worth it in the end.
UC: How do you view critical praise? Love it? Hate it? Don't care?
RYAN A : It's an odd thing, I certainly don't hate it though - it would be foolish and ungrateful to greet positivity with negativity. Any praise is encouraging, but we'd keep doing our thing regardless of its presence, or lack thereof.
UC: Who do you make music for?
RYAN A: hmm.. this is a strange one. For lack of a better word, music is a spiritual thing for me. On one hand I make music for myself, 'cuz I think I'd lose my mind if I didn't express myself and attempt to document the sounds in my head. The other side is, that I guess I make music for Music. To give back to it the energy it has given me. The possibility of maybe creating something that can move someone in the way some songs have moved me is a wonderful inspiration.
UC: I have read that you would rather hang in the studio than play live, after having just completed the tour in support of the release, what are your thoughts now? Give us the good the bad and the
ugly of playing live shows.
RYAN A : I like playing live a lot more now, its become a different experience with these new songs and the new energy in the band. I'd still rather record though. The good is the volume, and being able to physically feel the songs vibrate around you. The bad is the things that can go wrong. I'm a perfectionist so I guess that's one reason why I like the studio. There is a certain thrill of being on the musical tightrope though. The ugly is me, I pull weird faces when I concentrate.
UC: Given that you guys name your influences as being film , literature and philosophy..... I don't necessarily want to know your favorite book or film, can you just tell me the first novel and film that pop into your head?
RYAN A : Film: Begotten, Book : Slapstick, or Lonesome No More! by Kurt Vonnegut
UC: Just gave your PR agent my thoughts on the album, here they are verbatim; " It's a real ride...heap's going on and a bit like reading a novel of psychedelic poetry to the sounds of an intergalactic fight for
the universe, kids versus machines and technology, battle triumphs, heartbreak... its pretty amazing. Can they turn it into a musical film? I've got characters in my head ready to go if they want to collaborate
with the screenplay....just jokes..but I kind of really would like to see that happen."
My question to you Ryan Adamson and Regular John..... can you do it?
RYAN A : That's some intense thoughts! Caleb and I actually started writing a film when we were teenagers, but I'm not sure if the world is ready for that one, so Maybe Strange Flowers: the Musical is more achievable. Can John Waters direct it?
UC: Oh yes, but of course !!!!!!!!!!
Strange Flowers is out right now and has been pressed on delicious double PURPLE vinyl! Purchase it here. Also purchase Strange Flowers online or on CD, but it won't sound as good or be aesthetically pleasing like the vinyl version....
