Sea Lion, the name of the latest album from The Ruby Suns is inspired by a sea lion colony visible from Hwy 1, south of San Francisco. I figured this was a neat little tid-bit of information considering the band is based out of New Zealand. Recorded by Ryan McPhun alone in his Auckland basement and sung entirely in Maori, Sea Lion is not another psychedelic indie pop album. This is meant to pay tribute and teach those listening to the record how to embody one’s surroundings. The album is an exotic and experiential romp through West African travel and culture that lets the listener let loose and enjoy their surroundings. I think the first thought that went through my head listening to Sea Lion was, “I wanna go outside…”
The Ruby Suns will be in San Francisco on the 12th of April at 8:00P at the Bottom Of The Hill with Toro Y Moi. You can purchase Sea Lion .
The Ruby Suns are also set to release a new album on March 2nd via Sub Pop Records, entitled Fight Softly.
This week, Ruby Sun mastermind Ryan McPhun gives us a short and modest Kuestionnaire. Also, someone give this guy something to eat…
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1. Could you state your name and what you do in the band?
ryan. i write and record/produce all the music. the main person in the band
2. How would you describe your sound?
pop, a little bit psych, a little bit experimental, a little bit dance
3. What is your favorite local band?
signer
4. Any concerts that blew your mind recently?
bjork
5. Any non-musical influences you would like to mention?
food!
6. If your music was to be the theme of a film/TV show, what would it be?
across between magnum p.i. and gilligan’s island
7. What musician/artist would you like to collaborate with for a day?
teddy riley
8. What is the album you listen to on a cold rainy day?
arthur russell – calling out of context
9. List four songs you would listen to on a roadtrip?
arthur russell – springfield
bobby mcferrin – anything off circle songs
madonna – confessions on a dancefloor
coupe decale mixtape
10. Where do you see yourselves in 7 years?
no idea!
11. What is the last book you read?
still in the middle of journey to the centre of the earth
12. Is image a factor in music or is it a waste of time?
it is often a waste of time. images can easily be dated to a specific time so can be problematic that way.
13. Any embarrassing moments on stage you would like to share?
i’ve got quite angry on stage before, makes me look like an arsehole!
14. Any favorite tour locations?
barcelona, chicago, anywhere in portugal, san fran, lots of places!
15. Lastly, what is your present state of mind?
hungry
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[mp3] The Ruby Suns - Tane Mahuta from Sea Lion (2008)
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[mp3] Signer - Kicks and Kicks from Next We Bring You The Fire (2009)