For a band that’s just getting their footing in the melodic garage rock genre, opening and touring with Cults is a fairly ace spot to find yourself.
Emerging from San Diego, Writer (brothers Andy and James Ralph) creates a kind of buzzed up and catchy post-punk that’s hummable and energetic enough to impress a crowd of Cults fans. Their new 7 inch single, Miss Mermaid stresses that specific sound with an unconstrained energy and 60s class. Their live shows have a reputation of demanding attention through their focused skill of song structure and honest rawness portrayed from both brothers. Most importantly, these guys are good, not “buzz band” good; I mean they have a strong impressionability. Definitely worth repeated listens
You can purchase the Miss Mermaid 7″ here. The Brotherface LP will apparently see release later this fall…
You can also catch Writer tonight with Cults at the Bottom of the Hill. The show is sold out but if you already have tickets, show up early and catch this guys.
So today is a special early edition of the Kuestionnaire with James Ralph, the other half of Writer. He’s got some interesting influences.
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1. Could you state your name and what you do in the band?
James Ralph, one half of the band Writer. I play drums, gritty low-end-synth, and sing.
2. How would you describe your sound?
gettotech garage rock.
3. What is your favorite local band?
T Money & The Moneys (aka Tape Deck Mountain)
4. Any concerts that blew your mind recently?
Guards in Northampton, Mass.
5. Any non-musical influences you would like to mention?
The movie Jaws & Jaws III in 3D.
6. If your music was to be the theme of a film/TV show, what would it be?
Beavis and Butthead would be cool.
7. What musician/artist would you like to collaborate with for a day?
Tim Hawkinson
8. What is the album you listen to on a cold rainy day?
“Orange Rhyming Dictionary” by Jets to Brazil.
9. List four songs you would listen to on a roadtrip?
Four Songs from the “Cool Runnings” Sound Track
10. Where do you see yourselves in 7 years?
Playing rock n roll some where on the planet Mars.
11. What is the last book you read?
“Nine Stories”
12. Is image a factor in music or is it a waste of time?
To me it’s a waste.
13. Any embarrassing moments on stage you would like to share?
Pit stains in Pittsburg.
14. Any favorite tour locations?
Brooklyn, Philly…. Vancouver.
15. Lastly, what is your present state of mind?
Crazed.
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Writer – Family Dinner from Brotherface (2011)
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Tape Deck Mountain – It Goes Down from Secret Serf EP (2011)