You could not find a better representation of Brian Jonestown Massacre’s music than the very name of the band. Their key musical reference point being the late Rolling Stones member Brian Jones, and their ramshackle, self-destructive vibe which became apparent in the film, Dig!
Blending the smarmy, drug-addled sonics of late-’60s Stones with the chime of the Byrds, the hooks of the Animals, and the psychedelic drone of Velvet Underground within their swirl of 12-string guitars, farfisa organs, and jaded vocals, Brian Jonestown Massacre cull some of the most head-spinning moments of ’60s rock into a single, unified expression. But unified is the last word you’d use to describe their interband chemistry. Since they formed, they have been through nearly 60 members, and their live shows are as likely to end in a brawl, prompting one to say, “I went to a fight and a Brian Jonestown Massacre concert broke out.” However, this year’s Coachella appearance was praised to be not only tame but actually quite fantasic.
You can get Brian Jonestown Massacre’s new ‘Smoking Acid EP’ .
Founding member and guitarist Ricky Rene Maymi answers this week’s short but sweet Kuestionnaire.
1. Of all the bands/artists in your CD/record collection, which one is your most cherished?
The Triffids
2. What have you been listening to lately?
Scott Walker
3. What’s your favorite local band?
4. What was the last show you attended?
Mogwai with Dead Meadow
5. What was the greatest show you’ve ever been to?
Seen way too many amazing shows to answer that…
6. What show are you looking forward to?
The Church @ Slim’s June 12th
7. What musician would you like to hang out/work with for a day?
David Sylvian
8. What four albums you would bring to a deserted island?
“Born Sandy Devotional” by The Triffids
“The Blurred Crusade” by The Church
“Liberty Belle & The Black Diamond Express” by The Go-Betweens
“Grinderman” by Grinderman
9. Would you call yourself a music geek?
YES!
10. Any favorite music-related videos/DVDs you own?
Tom Verlain & Jimmy Ripp: Music for Experimental Film
11. What’s the last book you read?
“Bad Vibes” by Luke Haines
12. Do you prefer live performances or recording in the studio?
Thats like asking if I prefer day to night…
13. Any embarrassing moments on stage you’d like to share?
No
14. Any favorite tour locations?
The Antipodese and also Scandinavia
15. Lastly, what have you done today?
made some coffee, checked my email and smoked a joint
The Brian Jonestown Massacre – Tempo 116.7 (Reaching for Dangerous Levels of Sobriety)
Tipsy – Kitty’s Daydream (Longhair mix)