Celebrating 20 Years of "Feeding the Wolves"
This year marks a significant milestone for the EP "Feeding the Wolves," which turns 20. The anniversary invites fans to reflect on the journey of the music and the experiences that have shaped it. The title itself evokes a sense of wildness and adventure, prompting the question: Have you ever fed a wolf? While the artist admits to never having fed a wolf, a memorable encounter with a fox during a UK tour serves as a charming anecdote. On runs through semi-rural areas, the artist once kicked an apple towards a fox rummaging through a garbage bin, hoping to witness the creature eat. This moment encapsulates the spirit of curiosity and connection with nature that often accompanies life on the road.
The Chaos of Live Performances
As the artist prepares for a tour to celebrate the EP’s anniversary, memories of chaotic moments on stage come flooding back. One particularly chaotic incident occurred during a performance in regional Victoria. A fan, who seemed to invade the artist’s personal space, began singing into the microphone alongside him. The situation escalated when the fan accidentally stepped on the artist’s mute pedal, silencing his guitar mid-performance. Despite attempts to signal security, the situation spiraled out of control, leading to a physical confrontation. The artist recalls delivering a throat punch to the fan, who then fell over, prompting security to finally intervene. The gig came to a halt, but the artist quickly resumed the song, describing the experience as "gross" and "chaotic."
Unconventional Jobs and Life as a Musician
When asked about the strangest job ever held, the artist humorously reflects on his brief stint as a door-to-door T-shirt salesman. Tasked with charming business owners into buying shirts with silly phrases, he found the experience unbearable and quit after just two days. Despite selling a few shirts, the realization that he was good at being a schmoozy salesman only fueled his desire to escape the job. This anecdote highlights the unconventional path that led him to a successful career in music, which he humorously describes as the strangest job of all.
Treasures from the Past
Among the artist’s most cherished possessions is a treasure box filled with mementos collected over the years. This box includes a magic trick from his grandfather, a vintage badge from a relative, and even a pair of ceramic booties from his christening. However, the crown jewel of this collection is a 1962 Neumann U67 microphone, purchased in Los Angeles while mixing his record "Chimney’s Afire." This microphone has since been used on every album he has created, symbolizing both nostalgia and the evolution of his musical journey.
Contemplating Life and Death
In a thought-provoking moment, the artist is asked whether he would prefer to die at the bottom of the ocean or in space. He weighs the implications of pressure in both scenarios, ultimately leaning towards space. The idea of a quick demise in the vacuum of space seems more appealing than the painful crushing pressure of the ocean depths. This reflection reveals a deeper contemplation of life, death, and the unknown.
Finding Sleep in Unusual Thoughts
When insomnia strikes, the artist’s mind races with thoughts of survival, particularly inspired by the TV show "Alone." He meticulously plans how he would construct a shelter in the wilderness, envisioning every detail from stripping logs to creating water collection depressions. This imaginative exercise not only distracts him from sleeplessness but also showcases his resourcefulness and connection to nature.
Dreaming of Miniature Pets
In a whimsical twist, the artist muses about the possibility of having a mini kangaroo as a pet. He imagines a small eastern grey, just 15 centimeters tall, that would be easy to care for and amusing to watch. This playful idea reflects a lighthearted side of the artist, contrasting with the more serious themes of his music and experiences.
Wisdom from the Past
The best piece of advice the artist has ever received comes from his mother: "Always leave the party while you’re still having fun." This wisdom resonates deeply, especially for someone who grapples with FOMO (fear of missing out) and impulse control. It serves as a reminder that knowing when to step away is crucial, whether in social situations or in life choices.
Language and Pet Peeves
When discussing language, the artist expresses a particular disdain for the word "indeed." He finds its usage pretentious, especially when it’s employed to sound intelligent in casual conversation. This pet peeve highlights the artist’s candid nature and his desire for authenticity in communication.
Controversial Opinions in Pop Culture
Finally, the artist shares a controversial opinion about pop culture, specifically regarding Charli XCX. He candidly admits that her music doesn’t resonate with him, attributing this to his demographic perspective as a middle-aged, straight white male. This admission underscores the subjective nature of music appreciation and the diverse tastes that exist within the industry.
As "Feeding the Wolves" celebrates its 20th anniversary, the artist’s reflections on life, music, and the chaos of performance remind us of the rich tapestry of experiences that shape an artist’s journey. Each story, from feeding a fox to chaotic stage moments, adds depth to the narrative of a career that continues to evolve and inspire.
