A fresh new sound is storming out of New York City. Blending rock 'n' roll with many experimental elements mixed into their music, the Damnwells are returning to glory after their debut album Bastards of the Beat. Bastards generated quite a buzz, leaving fans excited and wanting to hear more from this foursome. Their answer: Air Stereo, which was released in August. Now, the Damnwells are headlining a tour, and their next stop is Madison.
With Air Stereo, the Damnwells have matured and grown with their songwriting, but maintain the same style and distinct sound that originally made them stand out. Lead singer/guitarist Alex Dezen, said Air Stereo is their breakout debut for a number of reasons.
""We consider this to be our first studio record,"" Dezen said. ""I really didn't feel much pressure. It was really our first opportunity to get out and actually stretch our legs in the studio and then get down to the nitty gritty, flesh the songs out and really kind of be a band.""
Dezen said the overall process of recording their latest record was different, since they were able to record it in a proper studio. Their music is incredibly deep, rich and intricate, as they are able to build dynamic sound and capture a variety of emotions in their music. Air Stereo highlights their strength and solidarity as a band, emphasizing how they have gelled together and come into their own.
""We are definitely a much different band than what we were six years ago when we started,"" Dezen said. ""I think that certainly, we are more experienced and have a little bit more control over what we are doing now.""
On both albums, it is clear that they pay attention to the details both instrumentally and lyrically. Standouts ""Golden Days"" and ""Shiny Bruise"" on their latest release showcase the sophisticated, complex song structure and ability to produce interesting sounds. While Dezen writes most of the songs, he said all members work together to make the final product.
""Everybody has a role in the band,"" Dezen said. ""The collaboration that we do is in the studio or in practice in getting the songs into sort of a ‘Damnwells' sound, if you will.""
Currently, the band is headlining an extensive U.S. tour before teaming up with the Fray next month.
""The response we've been getting has been really great,"" Dezen said. ""To be able to drive from Brooklyn to San Francisco and have people show up to see you play, whether there are 70 or 700, is a real accomplishment. We've been really lucky on this tour so far.""
He credits the Internet, particularly MySpace, in helping his band and other bands gain national exposure traditional mainstream media fail to give underground musicians.
""If it weren't for MySpace or illegal downloading, no one would know who we are—it's pretty simple,"" Dezen said. ""Any way the people can get the music is fine with me. If you want to go to a record store and buy it, that's fine, if you want to download it that's fine too.""
Their live performance will offer another glimpse into the stunning music they create. Dezen said the live shows will have a different focus from the albums, leaving room for improvisation as they can deliver something different during their live set. He added that the Damnwells will dip into their older songbook as well.
""Making records and performing live are two completely different things. I think that when you are making a record, you really are sort of creating this moment,"" Dezen said. ""When you come to the show, you are not going to see the record note for note, you are going to see something that is a lot more interesting, something that is hopefully kind of raw and inspiring.""
