Joe Pernice can spin a melody as well as anyone in indie rock, and can turn a phrase better than anyone in the game today. Over the course of 30 plus years in the rock and roll salt mines, Pernice has amassed an impressive catalog of songs, piled mileage up on the van, and is in many ways, still learning how to hit record.
Our conversation begins with me asking how his recent reunion shows in New York and Boston had gone to celebrate the deluxe reissue of the 1998 Pernice Brothers LP, Overcome By Happiness.
The reissue was part of a passion project spearheaded by a fan at New West Records and led eventually to a gorgeous vinyl reissue of the album, and an accompanying 52 page book. Pernice was pleased, and even touched that the label wanted his involvement even though it was not legally required.
From there, Joe and I into a launched the conversation into the labor practices at Spotify, and the harsh realities of the musical economy. Still, Pernice finds much to be hopeful about, including our mutual amazement at the talent of Taylor Swift.
In addition to music, we talk about being a Dad, love for the grand old game of baseball, and how Covid helped Joe to simplify his life a bit. Richard, Pernice’s most recent album was a solo affair that was recorded with just a nylon string guitar and his voice, with no outside assistance.
The simple act of playing a guitar in his basement bike shop was enough to spring an album into being. A friend set up all the basic gear to record this minimal presentation, and he then showed Pernice how to hit record so that Joe could make the whole thing alone, and unadorned.
The conversation that follows feels much like it must have felt for Joe to know as he began to learn how to play and write the songs for Richard. After we set things into motion, the conversation flowed with ease. It’s a breezy hour with a thoughtful soul.
My chat with Joe Pernice was very much like the seemingly effortless pop gems he dispenses out so regularly, thoughtful, direct, delightful and over all too quickly. Enjoy.
Cheers,
Matty C
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