We recently had the chance to catch up with UK rockers Band Of Skulls. The band’s bassist, Emma Richardson, gave us an update on the band and what they’ve been up to since the release of their new record, Sweet Sour.
Interview by Mike Danenberg
1. You just released your new record Sweet Sour. Have you seen that fans are reacting better to your newer album or did you have a bigger impact when you released Baby Darling Doll Face Honey?
It’s going very very well. We’ve seen great response from the new album. It has a different feel but our fans are enjoying it.
2. My favorite track on Sweet Sour is “The Devil Takes Care of His Own”. What is the one track off the new record that you enjoy playing live the most?
I’d have to say “You’re Not Pretty But You Got It Goin On” because its one of the heaviest tracks on the record and is really fun to play live. It really gets the crowd going.
3. The greatest thing in my opinion about Band of Skulls is that you create heavy crunchy tracks that get you moving, and you also create slow and delicate ones. When creating an album, do you try to give an equal share of that or how do you go about choosing the feel of your album?
We wrote a lot of material for the record and even had a couple tracks that we had to take off just for feeling of the album. We like all of them a lot, but its really all about the feeling of the album.
4. Emma, the artwork you create is phenominal. I love how a member of the band takes control over creating the art. Do you do more art outside of the band? If so, where can fans check it out?
Thanks! When I’m out of the studio I tend to draw a lot. I got lucky enough to get an exhibition in London to show my art. I have a small bit of my work on my exhibit “Meat Me At The Butchers” (can be found at meatmeatthebutchers.blogspot.
5. I’m a huge fan of Russell’s tone with its distinct reverb, crunch, and dirt. Tell me what gear he’s packing to create the style of music he plays. I gotta know!
Oh it’s top secret. Russell would kill me if I gave that away! It’s his own recipe.
6. The Ford Mustang commercial introduced you to thousands of new USA fans. Has “Light of the Morning” become one of your most known by fans in the states? How do you feel about that?
When we were out in the states we tested new material with our shows. “Light of the Morning” got amazing response after the commercial. It makes the live show amazing and helped out a lot because people recognized the track, so yeah it definitely helped.
7. You’ve rocked Coachella and Bonnaroo, but are there any festivals you are dying to be a part of? I would love to see you at Lollapalooza.
Well we’re playing the Isle of Wight Festival this year, and we’re waiting on a few confirmations for others. I’d love to play Lollapalooza this year. It’s a very cool festival.
8. If there was one band you could play with, who would it be?
Hmm, I would probably say Tom Waits. Playing on the same lineup as him and his band would be great.
9. Who in the band has the biggest sense of humor?
It depends what day it is, but I think Matt carries that role in the band.
10. After your spring tour, what’s coming up with Band of Skulls?
Well after our America tour, we’re heading back to Europe for some festival gigs. We are staying busy and can’t wait to play.
Keep up with Band of Skulls over on their website here. Be sure to catch them on one of their American tour dates and check out their brand new album, Sweet Sour (see website)!
