Stephen Brodsky (Mutoid Man/Cave In-guitar/vocals)
1. What are your top five albums that were released in 2015? (In order 1-5)
- Alabama Shakes - Sound And Color
- Marriages - Salome
- Prurient - Frozen Niagra Falls
- He Whose Ox Is Gored - The Camel, The Lion, The Child
- Wild Throne - Harvest of Darkness
2. What band did you discover in 2015 (can be a brand new band or an older band) that had an impact on your life? What made them significant?
Humble Pie.
Last spring, I spent an afternoon in Louisville with my friend Chris Maggio while touring solo opening for the Mountain Goats. We drove around listening to Humble Pie live jams from the early '70s and I was just floored by Steve Marriot: his vibe, his voice, and the way he addressed the audience between songs, by singing to them--he never stopped singing! It was relevatory and I made a mental note to pinch that move.
3. How will you remember 2015? (In terms of music)
2015 was an eventful year for me. I got to tour a whole bunch and in the process, came to terms with the fact that I've become pretty obsessed with performing, and will strive to hit the road as much as possible for the foreseeable future.
4. What can we look forward to from you in 2016?
There's already new riffs and song ideas floating around the Mutoid camp, and maybe more touring. Otherwise some exciting collaborations in the works, though right now it's too early to reveal details.
5. What records are you looking forward to most in 2016?
Let's see...There was a rumored Cattle Decapitation / Author & Punisher collab which might actually split the earth in two...At one point, John Darnielle mentioned the Mountain Goats possibly making something heavy for their next record and I'd love for them to follow through...Another solo record from Emma Ruth Rundle is underway which is very exciting news...New Russian Circles as well... also I hear Converge is starting to write again... same with The Dillinger Escape Plan, plus more Sumac jams in the works... As we can see, lots of good stuff!
6. How relevant is the physical format record/cd/tape in 2015 and going into 2016? What do you see changing in terms of physical vs. digital discussions?
Those things are great for bands to offer at shows because if anything, they're mementos for an experience. People still buy my records; sometimes they want me to sign them and that's a great feeling. The key is getting your numbers right: no one wants a closet full of stationary stock. Digital serves well for personal enjoyment at home, or while you're traveling, maybe a quick fix on the run. Regardless, I still see the physical format benefiting both touring musicians and the fans who attend their shows.
