To introduce yourselves to people who haven't heard of you before, who are you guys, what is your genre of music, and where are you guys from?
we are the thermals, a post-pop-punk band from portland, oregon.
How did the band form and how did you get your name?
the band formed in my kitchen. the name means hot air, or long underwear.
Who are your influences and idols?
agent orange, the breeders, misfits, subhumans, early weezer and green day.
What is your favorite part about being a band?
writing songs, recording, and playing loud, sweaty shows.
Your music and lyrics are often filled with passionate anger and angst. What inspires such raw emotion?
i'm just wired that way. i am filled with intense emotional anger every day of my life.
Your albums have gotten great reviews and you have a gotten a pretty big fan base. How does that feel?
it feels great. it's everything i ever wanted as a musician.
When 'The Body, The Blood, The Machine' got the Best New Music distinction from Pitchfork, how exciting was that?
it didn't matter to us at that point really, because we didn't read pitchfork, we barely knew what it was. but people around us told us it was important.
Can you describe the band's writing process?
we work on music at our studio, then i work on lyrics at home. sometimes a song will come just out of the band playing together. sometimes i'll bring ideas to the band and we will work on them. sometimes i'll bring almost-finished songs to the band.
What are the plans for the year and beyond?
touring, touring, touring. mostly US and EUROPE. some canada. already thinking about the next record as well. maybe a little writing near the end of the year.
Whenever I see a picture or interview with the band, Hutch is always sweaty. Explain? No offense of course.
you must be talking about pictures taken after shows we've played. i give it my all at every show we play.
That's all I can think to ask. Anything else you want to share, something really funny?
nope :)
Fan Questions:
What would be your advice on getting gigs, and touring for a small band?
you have to be very persistent, and not get discouraged. i really wouldn't know how to book a tour myself at this point. i haven't booked a show for eleven years or so. back when we booked our own shows, we did so without the internet or even cellphones! fucking crazy. i would assume the internet has made booking a lot easier.
What is your favorite guitar?
fender telecaster.
How would you describe your playing style?
serviceable.
What effects do you run normally?
two ibanez tube screamers and one boss digital delay.
How do you run your vocals?
rode NT1 mic, through an ART pre-amp, into a tascam 4-track cassette.
What advice do you have for getting signed?
i think it's better to concentrate on writing goods songs and PRACTICING. a lot. i think too many bands are thinking about how they can get signed instead of thinking about how to just be a better band.
Whats the difference between playing all ages DIY shows and all ages or 21+ clubs and big music festivals?
we prefer all ages DIY shows the best, but big festivals are fun as well. we really like tiny, packed-out shows in total fire-traps where we could all die at any moment.
Who are some of your favorite new/up and coming bands?
