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Brooklyn-based indie/emo trio wakelee is set to drop their debut album later this year. Their latest releases include three singles, "Mood Rings," "Outside," and "Everything Under The Sun." In this interview, the band discusses their creative process, the Brooklyn music scene, and the inspiration behind their latest singles.
You’re prepping to release your debut album. Has the experience been different from creating an EP? What’s it been like working with Superbloom’s Brian DiMeglio?
We recorded our first EP in about 4 hours and tracked a lot of it live. It was definitely scrappy. We took our time writing this album. For some songs, we laid down bass and drums and then would fill in the rest 6 months later. That worked in our favor because it gave us some time to really sit with the structures and re-imagine some arrangements. Brian is the best. He makes us feel very comfortable and can easily translate the ideas you’re trying to communicate.
How would you describe your current sound? Which of your songs would you recommend to first-time listeners?
We usually say we’re indie-punk, or indie-emo. It really depends from song to song. I always recommend Mood Rings. I’m really proud of that song.
What does your process look like when writing/creating music?
I usually come up with some combination of a chord progression, riff, and a little scat melody and bring it to the band in the rehearsal space. We’ll work on some arrangements and then Elliot and I usually work on melodies and chord changes during an acoustic session. It’s different for each song!
Tell us about your three latest singles “Mood Rings,” “Outside,” and “Everything Under The Sun.” What inspired them? Do you think they fit together or stand out individually?
They each have their intense moments and their subdued moments. That’s the point! We’re trying to take you for a ride, which is what inspired the songs. The general ups and downs of life.
What was the most memorable show you’ve played, and what was great about it?
Either last May at Mercury Lounge or at a house show in Brooklyn. We were in our groove and felt relaxed, confident, and most importantly, our gear didn’t fail us.
Do you have any pre-show rituals? How do you celebrate or relax after a live show?
We usually have a drink together and fist pound on stage right before the set. We’re not very superstitious (at least not yet).
If you could get any artists to tour with you, dead or alive, who would be on the bill?
There are so many artists we would love to tour with. My childhood self would go crazy if I found out I got to tour with Blink-182 in the future, so maybe them. Or maybe The Strokes in 2002.
Tell us about the Brooklyn music scene. What are the best parts about it?
There are so many artists from all different genres, which can seem overwhelming, but if you play enough shows and make a point to get to know the artists that you’re playing with, you’ll eventually find a little pocket of similar-minded people.
What is your dream venue to play and why?
Brooklyn Steel. I’ve seen some amazing shows there. We also used to walk past it every day when we would practice at our old space.
What can we expect from you in the future?
We’re working on a tour and just writing more music. Our goal is to have another project out next year!
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