Aging Together as a Band: Reflections from the Studio

The Concept of Aging

Krivchenia expresses a deep admiration for artists who embrace the evolution of their music as they age. He believes that true artistry lies in following one’s inner voice rather than clinging to youth. “We’ve always imagined playing until we drop dead on stage,” he states, highlighting a commitment to a lifelong journey of performance and creativity.

Meek adds nuance to this discussion by challenging the typical perceptions of youth. He reflects on his experiences growing up playing music with much older musicians, emphasizing that true youthful energy transcends age. “There’s something about music that makes a lot of space for what I consider to be ageless,” he notes, pointing to the playful and curious nature of musicians regardless of their years.

Creating in the New York City Winter

Lenker shares insights into the decision to record their album during the frigid New York City winter. The cold weather set a contrasting backdrop to the warm environment of the studio, creating a unique sense of refuge. “It was kind of like going inside the getaway,” she explains, likening it to a period of hibernation that sparked creativity, reminiscent of her Minnesota childhood winters.

The Biking Ritual

Meek elaborates on how the ritual of biking to the studio fostered a sense of rhythm and community among the band. They would adapt their routes based on the wind and often listen to ambient music, transforming the city into a poetic landscape. “It was a way to have a playful, physical relationship with the city space before going into the studio and getting really heady,” he recounts.

Integrating Outside Musicians

Following the departure of Max, the band initially continued as a trio, but Krivchenia explains that the energy felt stagnant. The familiarity among them created a comfort zone that limited their creativity. Bringing in outside musicians revitalized the dynamic, prompting them to navigate a new musical landscape and explore fresh perspectives.

Collaborating with Laraaji

As the band has increasingly embraced themes of joy and playfulness in their music, collaborating with Laraaji felt like a natural progression. Meek notes that this collaboration was not just about sound but also about the physical and intuitive aspects of music. He describes Laraaji as a master of maintaining an open presence, which allowed the band to connect deeply with the music and each other. “It was a big lesson for me,” he reflects, emphasizing the importance of listening and responding in the creative process.

Conclusion

The journey of aging as artists, the challenges of creating in a bustling city, and the integration of new musical influences all contribute to a rich tapestry of experiences for the band. Their reflections reveal a deep understanding of the physical and emotional aspects of music-making, reinforcing the idea that creativity knows no age and thrives in diverse environments.

FAQs

1. How does the band view aging in relation to their music?

The band sees aging as a natural and enriching part of their artistic journey, aiming to embrace change and growth in their music rather than resisting it.

2. What role does the New York City winter play in their creative process?

The winter setting provided a unique backdrop that fostered creativity and a sense of refuge, allowing the band to focus on their music while navigating the bustling city.

3. Why did the band decide to bring in outside musicians for their recording?

After a member’s departure, the band felt that the energy was stagnant, and involving outside musicians helped to introduce new dynamics and perspectives in their music.

4. How did biking to the studio influence their recording sessions?

Biking created a communal experience that set a rhythmic tone and allowed the band to engage with the city in a playful way before diving into their music.

5. What impact did collaborating with Laraaji have on the band?

Collaborating with Laraaji taught the band about maintaining an open and responsive approach to music, enhancing their creative process and deepening their connection to one another.