The Evolution of Owen Williams: From Novelist to Jangle-Pop Innovator
A Different Kind of Passion Project
Before Owen Williams embarked on his musical journey with the jangle quartet known as the Tubs, he delved into a starkly different creative venture: writing a novel steeped in personal tragedy. The inspiration for this prickly narrative stemmed from the heartbreaking loss of his mother, Charlotte Greig, a folk singer and writer. In a reflective post on Substack, Williams recounted the year 2016 as a moment when the “Trauma Industrial Complex” was gaining momentum. Driven by a desire to share his grief, he poured his soul into a book that ultimately found no takers. The rejection from literary agents stung deeply, leading him to admit, “There’s a special kind of humiliation in failing to hawk your big tragedy.”
The Rise of the Tubs
In the midst of a challenging period marked by sleepless nights and reliance on Xanax, Williams found solace in an unexpected source: the burgeoning success of the Tubs. The band’s debut album, Dead Meat, released in 2023, received a warm reception, prompting Williams to reconsider the potential of his abandoned novel. This reinvention inspired the creation of their follow-up album, Cotton Crown, which came together with surprising speed.
Facing Discomfort Through Music
Cotton Crown does not shy away from the uncomfortable themes that permeate Williams’ life. The album cover features a poignant black-and-white photograph of his mother breastfeeding him in a graveyard, a striking image originally used for one of her 7-inch records. The closing track, “Strange,” recounts a moment from his mother’s wake, where a stranger suggested he could channel his experience into song, an idea Williams follows with an apology: “Well, whoever the hell you are/I’m sorry, I guess this is it.” The album opens with “The Thing Is,” which encapsulates the self-loathing that often accompanies deep emotional turmoil.
The Contrast of Sound and Sentiment
While the lyrics of the Tubs delve into themes of sadness and introspection, the music itself is anything but suffocating. The upbeat, jangly melodies create a juxtaposition that transforms poignant narratives into catchy tunes. For instance, “Freak Mode” bursts forth with an infectious energy reminiscent of Bob Mould’s most lively work, while “Narcissist” rings with the bright chimes characteristic of Johnny Marr. Even the most melancholic reflections, such as in “Illusion,” are delivered with a sense of buoyancy, as Williams sings, “Somehow sitting in my empty room/Is the only thing I wanna do,” over a backdrop of rollicking pub rock.
The Role of Collaborators
Integral to the Tubs’ sound are guitarist George Nicholls and backing vocalist Lan McArdle, who add layers of harmony and texture to Williams’ stark vocal style. McArdle, despite not being a full-time member, brings a necessary sweetness to the band’s sound, reminiscent of past collaborations in Joanna Gruesome and Ex-Vöid. If Dead Meat felt like a lost IRS Records gem from 1987, then Cotton Crown captures the essence of 1988—refined yet familiar. Remarkably, even amidst its tragic undercurrents, the album offers a breezier and more enjoyable listening experience.
Conclusion
The journey of Owen Williams from aspiring novelist to the frontman of the Tubs exemplifies the transformative power of art. By channeling his grief into music, he not only found a new creative outlet but also a way to connect with audiences through shared experiences of sorrow and resilience. Cotton Crown stands as a testament to the complexity of human emotion, proving that even the heaviest themes can be presented in an inviting and accessible manner.
FAQs
What inspired Owen Williams to write a novel?
Owen Williams was inspired to write a novel due to the tragic loss of his mother, Charlotte Greig, and his desire to explore his grief through literature.
How did the Tubs come to be successful?
The Tubs gained unexpected success following the release of their debut album, Dead Meat, which attracted attention beyond their initial niche audience.
What themes are explored in Cotton Crown?
Cotton Crown explores themes of grief, self-loathing, and personal tragedy, all while being delivered through upbeat and catchy melodies.
Who are the key collaborators in the Tubs?
Key collaborators in the Tubs include guitarist George Nicholls and backing vocalist Lan McArdle, both of whom enhance the band’s sound with their contributions.
How does the music of the Tubs contrast with their lyrics?
The Tubs’ music features upbeat and cheerful melodies that contrast with the often somber and introspective lyrics, creating a unique listening experience.
