INTERVIEW:
FINE POINTS
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MY mind turns to FINE POINTS…
as they talk with me about their current single, Ready & Able, and their fresh record, Take Shape. Evan from the band discusses the record’s themes and what it was like working with producer Jason Carmer; how the band found one another – he chats about the scene in L.A. right now.
I was eager to learn what sort of music Evan grew up around and what gigs the band have coming up; if there is any chance of them all coming over to the U.K. – Evan recommends a current artist we should all seek out.
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Hi. How are you? How has your week been?
Evan: Hey. It’s pretty good! We just hopped in the van and are now officially on tour. Something strange happened this morning before we left, though. When we went to pick up our trailer, we noticed that the lock was smashed and there was a man living inside of it. His name was ‘Big Country’ and he had a bejewelled crown on his head. Some kind policeman eventually convinced him to leave and we were off!
For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please?
Yo! We do dreamy jams with guitars, drums and synthesizers. (‘“We like to play” - Garth)
Talk to me about the song Ready & Able. What is the story behind the song?
This one is about seizing the moment and making moves when something inspires you. One life to live, you guys/gals. Our friend, Hannah Moriah, is beautifully featured and made this track something really special.
It is from your sophomore album, Take Shape. Are there particular themes that inspired the music? Do you all have a favourite cut from the record?
Being abducted by the future and the power of letting go….
My fave cut is The Fang. It was the first tune we recorded and the tracking process was so natural/easy. This was not always the case as we recorded the remainder of the album. It’s a dedication to a pal of mine that passed away last year.
What was it like working with Jason Carmer on the album? What did he bring to the record in terms of input and expertise?
Carmer brings in a high level of recording experience and knowledge of songcraft. He helped us spit-shine the jams and left sparkles on everything.
How did FINE POINTS get together? Were you all playing around L.A. in different bands?
Matt and I put together F.P. on our breaks from touring with Sleepy Sun. Josh (Drums) and Owen (Bass/Keys) have become an integral part of our ‘sound,’ as well. We’ve got a new keyboard player named Nick who is slaying. We live in the Bay area and all of us are involved in an array of musical and art projects.
Give me a sense of the artists you grew up around. Who inspired you to get into music?
Neil Young and Velvet Underground are the big ones for me. They make beautiful Pop music but also have really fuck*d up/abrasive moments in their songwriting. I love that balancing act.
What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018?
Play the tunes out as much as we can. Sell some units.
Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?
Neil Young live in Barcelona at Primavera Sound. I’ve never seen someone head-bang as much as he did that night.
If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?
I try to support all peeps that are making music. It’s a tough gig these days. My rider is al pastor tacos and Mezcal.
What advice would you give to new artists coming through?
Sounds cheesy but do it because you love it. If there’s another reason in your head (money, fame etc.) you’re kinda fuck*d.
Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?
A West Coast U.S tour is happening right now. Check www.finepointsmusic.com for dates.
Do you think you will come to the U.K. and play at all?
Would love to! I’ve been craving a full English breakfast. Fly us out?
IN THIS PHOTO: Vince Staples
Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?
Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?
Not really. I usually chill with music. Mexican cuisine helps.
Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).
Evan: Mulatu Astatke – Mulatu
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