Since we last spoke with Wilderado last year, the previously LA-based band has moved to Tulsa, the hometown of two of the members. “Life isn’t worth living away from your family,” they explained, when asked about the decision to move. The indie rock act plays Brighton Music hall next week, and we had a chance to hear more about their latest EP, Favors, and the Tulsa music scene.
KB: You recently moved/moved back to Tulsa, and Max Rainer mentioned always wanting to be part of the Tulsa music scene. What’s the Tulsa scene like, and what are you most excited about in regards to the move?
I just think there is a wonderful network of people here in Tulsa making and playing incredible music for music’s sake. Rather than for the scene or commercial gain. I wanted to be surrounded by that.
KB: What would you say are the most accurate artist comparisons you’ve heard about the band? Is there anyone you wish people compared you to?
We played a show in Houston this year and someone told me we sounded like a knock-off Coldplay, which I thought was kind of mean. But what can you do? Let me know if we remind you of anything…
KB: Can you please describe your music without using genre names?
Simple thoughts
KB: You guys released yet another EP—when are the plans to put out a full album? (We also discussed concept albums last time we spoke—any plans for that?) If that’s still unclear, can you tell us more about the decision to release so many singles and EPs?
We’re mostly touring. The only real thought right now is finding time to record. All four of us dream of Wilderado releasing LP1.
KB: If Favors was a room, what would it look like?
It would be dark and open, with nice furniture but no clear understanding of who lives there.
KB: Can you tell us more about “You Don’t Love Me” and explain the line “All I wanted was a beating heart, but you don’t love me”?
The idea was that I’m not asking for much, just a working body. You love someone who doesn’t love you back and it’s all bullshit from there. You can say goodbye to your perfectly good meal.
KB: What is being sewn in “Siren”? (I’ve been hoping and sewing / with windows half open I wait)
There’s a lesson from the bible about reaping what you sew, I reference it in “Rubble to Rubble,” as well. I’ve always loved the imagery and idea of that. That whole tune is about the double sidedness of feeling left behind or unrecognized. I was saying I’ve been doing all the things that are supposed to equal me having done my part, but if I’m only half open to receiving love and attention what’s the point?
Catch Wilderado perform live at Brighton Music Hall on October 23rd.