Congratulations on the release of “Collaborations” how does it feel?
Like a weight off, really. I have been with these songs a long time and it feels great to get them out.
It is quite a project, having been recorded with lots of people from around the world. On a scale of 1-10 how proud of it are you?
There’s an old movie called “This is Spinal Tap.” A character is showing off his amplifier saying, “My knobs go to 11.” That’s the first thing I thought of when asked this question.
What gave you the idea to create it?
I was bored. I make things with people when I’m bored. Covid had me exceptionally bored. And sick. It just seemed like the thing to do.
What were the challenges you had?
I hope people aspiring to collaborate read the answer to this question first. The absolute toughest part is when it just doesn’t work out. Feelings can get hurt. I learned to be sure I wanted to collaborate before asking throughout all this.
What’s your absolute favourite track from it?
I think today it’s “Fear.” When Roger Brainard sent back his tracks, I knew we had something special. That was very early on^the record. He’s been so patient. When I listen to that song, it gives me shivers. That’s the goal.
Tell us about The Kintners. You are a duo from Texas, how did it all begin for you?
Well I was a songwriter for a long time. I always struggled with completing lyrics. Keri has a real talent for getting to the core of what lyrics are supposed to say and leading one part into another. She asks the right questions and finds good words to use.
What did you listen to starting out?
I’ve always had a thing for three folks in particular. Neil Diamond, Kris Kristofferson, and Bob Dylan. Lately, and by lately I mean the last 10 or so years, I’ve come to welcome Neil Young and Al Kooper into the fold.
Your sound has a touch of blues, country and bit of rock. How does a writing session begin for you?
Usually, we don’t have any music at all. We have a line, or a story. Then I goof around with the music and Keri plays with the words to go over it.
You are a guitarist, what’s in your set up?
I prefer a minimalist approach with a focus on long ringing tones. My setup is a B B King guitar, “Lucille”, and a Fender Pro Jr amp. The guitar gives me emergency access to frequency cuts so I don’t drown out other instruments or my wife’s vocals, and the amp is just Volume and Tone. simple.
Your wife Keri created the artwork for this album, what was her inspiration for it?
A: First off, we just like it cause it looks cool. Maybe there’s an idea behind it about tracks coming in from everywhere like the lips speaking on the wind to our mailbox, but that isn’t how it started.
COVID has had an impact on the creative industry what kept you motivated?
Oddly enough, Covid has been a motivation itself. I’m just dying to do stuff all the time with people.
The last couple of years have been a time to reflect what did you learn about yourself?
I have limits. I can get cranky. I’m not a particularly “happy demeanor” type person. But, the music sounds nice.
Did you pick up any new skills?
I went from a traditional board to a DAW in this process. I’m learning every day. But the more I learn, the more I realize I had it right to begin with. simple.
What are you listening to at the moment?
John Craigie, Allison Russell, Brandi Carlile, Dan Reeder, James McMurtry, Mike and the Moonpies, Roger Brainard, Charu Suri, Ben Shaw, Brady Jo.. tons! And, many can be heard on the album.
What’s next for you?
My wife and I are making a small album together. quickly, mixing myself, and trying to include a lot of mood and atmosphere with a simple approach. Won’t be long.
