On the heels of his self-titled debut release, Chicago artist, Almond, is currently putting together a string of show dates in which to support his music and plans to start off in the Midwest. If you are not aware of Almond and his work, it’s about time to put him on your radar. His new album, Almond, is a diverse collection of 16 tracks that can only be described as aggressive and chaotic, yet it holds onto an unadulterated originality that puts it in a class of its own. Starting off with a bang with “Many of Your Cares”, a catchy and energetic piece, the album takes its listeners into a series of complicated mood swings, varying from the transcendent to the abrupt and belligerent. The album never drags and can become quite addictive.
Almond is a true creative workhorse already adding two new songs to his live show, “Into the Woman” and “Assholes”. The unique thing about Almond’s live show is that all tracks, except his vocals and guitar, are transferred from a laptop through the PA system, therefore he plays alone, yet is accompanied with a full band sound. However, Almond is such a stimulating presence in himself, the visual of a live backing band is not even missed. His shows are lively and his songs unpredictable, but Almond, being his own worst critic, will say otherwise about the latter though it is far from the truth.
I caught up with the unusual talent that is Almond at his studio as he was taking a break from his latest recording project.
Buzz – Your new self-titled CD, Almond, was just released in May. How much of the material is based on life experience, and what song captures Almond the artist the most?
Almond – Jesus Christ. None of them are fantasy. I mean, they were all inspired by my personal travels and trials as a young person. But there is a violent fantasy one. It was inspired by actual violence, which I emphasized and extended in song format. And the particular person involved in the real life event(s) has heard the song and is OK with my exploiting their (emotional) wounds. Ah, and, I think 'I Can't Get Pregnant' and 'Icefish' best catch my Almond pose.
Buzz – Strange things can happen at Almond shows. What was the strangest thing that ever happened while playing live? Can I bring up the doughnut incident?
Almond – In 2004 I was crowned Prom King of the Prom Party in Chelsea's Basement. I wore a crown and was handed a beer then walked around not talking to anybody. Some girl almost got her ass kicked. Next question?
Buzz – When playing live, you sing and use the guitar while the rest of your tracks are run through the PA. Does this inhibit you, or is it freeing? And, how does the crowd respond to this?
Almond - I have a lot of freedom, totally. I'm the only douchebag in my band so I don't have to deal with other assholes. Plus, I can rely on technology much better than assholes. I've never met anyone skilled enough to play with me, really. It's for the best that I never play with other people.
Buzz – Would you ever consider using a band to back you up at a live show?
Almond – Yes, I often consider it. But I would have to have a drummer and a percussionist. The drum rhythms I make are impossible to play on one set (most of the time). Some guy with cymbals, woodblocks, and shit sticks would be necessary but it would all look so ridiculous why, why. It would be difficult, so I would probably make all new songs more fitting for a band arranged live shot. They would all be in 4/4 ababcab C Major and be instrumental.
Buzz – Your music has many different sounds. How would you describe your music?
Almond – Observational humor.
Buzz – Can you tell me some of your musical influences?
Almond – If you mean bands, then I'd say a lot of metal. Initially. Which is fun(ny) because not many of my songs sound heavy or nothin'. But more so and overall I would say stuff like Xiu Xiu, or Arab on Radar, or Liars... and Talking Heads.
Buzz – How have you grown as an artist over the past few years?
Almond – My songs are getting more predictable, and therefore more accessible. Sometimes you're listening to one and can guess what's gonna happen next, which irks my face. I'm singing a lot more.
Buzz – I found it interesting that you went to high school and college with 2010 American Idol winner, Lee Dewyze. Your music couldn’t be more different that his. Would you ever want to collaborate with Dewyze? What were your experiences like with him?
Almond – Oh, I love Lee. He's wanted to fight me a few times, but only because he doesn't like my laugh. He likes to sing his brains out and jam out with guitar chords from what I've witnessed. I want to play drums in his band.
Buzz – You are incredibly original. Is it tough to keep coming up with new ideas or does it come naturally to you?
Almond – You just gave me an idea for a song. Thank you.
Buzz – Lastly, if you could have your fans take home one thing from an Almond show, what would it be?
Almond – Finger tapping skills. Good luck.
To find out more about Almond visit www.myspace.com/yesalmond
