Harry - Sound In The Signals Interview & Song Feature
When describing the song Harry said, "basically, I came up with a cool slap bass line and started to write some melodies around it vocally and on keyboards. I initially didn’t have any ideas lyrically until Tom, my producer, and I were recording in the throes of scorching summer heat. We were miserable and thought it would be hilarious to write a song about how pleasurable life seems to have been back in the day. This of course ties into the 1970’s and early 80’s theme of excess on the album and how the party never seemed to stop in an era before consequences. In the world of the Muffs album, Harry gets signed and is living the high life. I am of course romanticizing this era in history, and simultaneously celebrating and making fun of the 70’s at the same time. The party’s never going to end! Until 1984 rolls around."
You're originally from Montana and are now based in Los Angeles. You have found a way to blend your love for comedy and music in a unique way. Tell us more about yourself and your music for those who may be unfamiliar.
Harry: First of all, thank you! That sensitive blend of comedy and good music has been the goal from the beginning, and I think it’s working. Growing up in a town of 15 in Montana, I spent a lot of time alone and wasn’t necessarily in to what was popular at the time. I’ve always loved the 70’s and was collecting 70’s basketball cards by the 3rd grade. When I moved to LA, like thousands of musicians, I wanted to try and take over the world in a great rock band. I was in a couple of incredible bands (and many sub-par bands. Ha!), but we could never keep it together long enough to break out of the LA music scene. I had to take a hard look in the artistic mirror and figure out what I could do on my own that could be a viable thing. I don’t have a rock voice, but I think I’m funny and I can slap that bass. I got it: Comedic Funk Disco! I view Harry as a three-pronged 70’s beast of catchy songs, hilarious random videos, and a kick-a** live show. I just had my first show with my new band Honeywell this last week; and the response has been very positive! Of course it helps having one of Lionel Richie’s drummers in your band. I don’t have to do anything and I sound great!
Growing up you listened to bands such as Rush and Steely Dan, but also artists who played funk and disco. I can see how that might have influenced you. How do you combine those sounds and what appeals to you about each sound?
Whenever I have tried to methodically combine the sounds of my heroes, it has sounded like sh*t! It’s funny how you can analyze the formula of the greats, but in trying to replicate it, you’re actually cheapening its originality. I finally learned how to write my own songs by picking up my bass, closing my eyes, and rocking out for hours. Once I find a good groove, then there is the organic process of coming up with unique melodies (words usually come later for me). Also, a great producer is essential in terms of molding and shaping songs. I am fortunate to be working with the Rev. Tom Chandler, who I worked with in some of my old bands. He is my musical mentor and has always pushed me to be better.
Your style has been described as "The Harry musical recipe includes one cup of The Lonely Island-esque humor, a dash of Har Mar Superstar pop sensibility and retro flair, and one full serving of the irresistible groove of Vulfpeck". That's quite a description! Where do you find your inspiration? What's your writing and recording process like?
Uh, oh! I think I answered that in the previously long-winded answer. Lets keep this one short. If I need inspiration and am in a rut, I go for a run. Channeling Steve Prefontaine and Larry Bird seems to help.
We're featuring your first single, "Pleasure Dome (February 26th, 1981)". You've said, "February 26th, 1981 was a fateful day for Harry. It was the day he signed to Sony. It was the day he partied with Hall and Oates. It was the day the party started. This party's never going to end! Right?". How do you walk the line of celebrating the era and making fun of it at the same time?
Again, thank you! That’s a great question because I’m figuring it out as I go. I sincerely wish I could teleport to that era and live. It was this golden time before technology started to make the world so insular. People went out to support bands and party. Yes, I’m sure it was pretty hedonistic, but look at the music from that era. It will never be replicated. That being said, 70’s culture feels very dated in a lot of ways and lets face it, it’s just plain funny. I could watch Lowenbrau commercials from the 70’s on Youtube all day. Yes, I’m poking fun, but in reality, I long for that simpler time. Here IS to good things!
You appeared in some notable music videos including playing alongside James Bay in the video for "Best Fake Smile" and as a Mick Jagger lookalike in Maroon 5's video for "Moves Like Jagger". Can you describe these experiences?
They were great experiences. I enjoy the occasional acting gig, although I’m more of a comedian than an actor. The difficult thing is being involved in a capacity that doesn’t utilize your most notable skills. It’s true; I have an ego. I’m watching Maroon 5 play and thinking, “I could do that in my sleep.” Shhhhhh! Don’t tell Adam!
Your debut album, Muffs, is to be released in the coming months. What should fans expect from the album? Can you offer any teases for those who are waiting?
“Muffs” is complete, but I am going to slowly leak it out and it might not fully come out digitally until next year. This is because I am trying a new approach with my project. I have to make more funny videos to accompany the songs. Currently, I am working on storyboards for “Garbage Island (Trash Beneath My Feet)” and “White Boy Basketball (Below the Rim)”. They’re going to be great!
I've heard you have an upcoming first single/video premiere party coming up and fans need to RSVP for the private event. What else is going on for Harry while we're waiting for Muffs to be released.? How can fans keep up?
The Party was at LiveList in Venice CA this past Thursday, and was a chance to celebrate my upcoming video with friends, fans, and all who have helped out thus far. I also wanted to get my feet wet with my new band Honeywell. I am so stoked with how the performance went! We got shut down by the cops in Venice, and they hung out for a while and got pre-released hard copies of Muffs. Everyone can keep up by following me on Facebook, signing up for my monthly newsletter, and checking out my videos when they come out. I am so excited to finally share some of my material! It’s been brewing for a long time.
Thanks for the interview. Do you have anything else you would like to add?
Yes, it’s true that mustard turtlenecks are itchy, but that’s okay!
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-L.Burden
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