Exploring Themes of Emptiness and the Pursuit of Pleasure
London-based band Modern Guilt has released their second EP, ‘We’ll Always Have Vegas’. Frontman Jaz shares insights into the creation and themes of the EP in an exclusive interview.
Q: Congratulations on your new EP, ‘We’ll Always Have Vegas.’ Can you tell us about the concept behind this release?
Jaz: Thank you! ‘We’ll Always Have Vegas’ is a conceptual snapshot, capturing moments from a binge. It’s a series of tales from the feast, focusing on how we remember our lives and the people we encounter. The EP explores the end of the night, happiness through a distorted lens, and personal stories in Las Vegas.
Q: What inspired the title ‘We’ll Always Have Vegas,’ and how does it relate to the themes explored in the EP?
Jaz: The title plays on the idea of Las Vegas as a symbol of pleasure and escape. It represents a pilgrimage to false joy and the search for feeling. The EP delves into the fruitless, delusional, and intoxicating quest for complete pleasure and the internal narratives that accompany this journey.
Q: How did you decide on the narrative structure of this EP? Were there specific stories or experiences that influenced the songwriting?
Jaz: The narrative structure emerged organically as we wrote the songs. Each track reflects different stages of a night out, capturing the rise and fall of emotions. Personal experiences and observations of nightlife and human behavior heavily influenced the songwriting.
Q: Can you talk about the creative process behind the tracks ‘Talking To Myself’ and ‘Joy Control’? What message are you trying to convey with these songs?
Jaz: ‘Talking To Myself’ and ‘Joy Control’ are jagged and direct, reflecting the chaotic and fragmented thoughts that come with introspection and the pursuit of happiness. These songs convey the struggle of grappling with one’s inner thoughts and the facade of joy that we often present to the world.
Q: The tracks ‘I Want To Show You God’ and ‘How To Buy Happiness’ introduce new elements to your sound. How did you approach the production and arrangement of these songs?
Jaz: We wanted to expand our sound on these tracks by incorporating space and warmer tones through acoustics and percussion. The production, guided by Mikey Buckley, allowed us to explore new textures and create a more immersive listening experience.
Q: ‘Gramophone Remedy’ has been described as an orchestral heartbeat filled with fragility and melancholy. What was the inspiration behind this track, and how did you achieve its unique sound?
Jaz: ‘Gramophone Remedy’ was inspired by the fragility of human emotions and the melancholy that often accompanies introspection. We aimed to create an orchestral feel by layering strings and gentle percussion, achieving a sound that pulls the listener back into a reflective state.
Q: You’ve worked with producer Mikey Buckley on this EP. How did his involvement influence the final product?
Jaz: Mikey Buckley’s involvement was crucial in shaping the EP’s sound. His expertise in production helped us refine our ideas and bring out the best in each track. He provided valuable insights and encouraged us to experiment with new elements, which greatly influenced the final product.
Q: The music video for ‘Talking To Myself’ is directed by Ross Scott. Can you share some insights into the making of the video and its visual representation of the song?
Jaz: Working with Ross Scott was an incredible experience. He understood the song’s themes perfectly and translated them into a visual narrative that complements the music. The video captures the essence of introspection and the feeling of being lost in one’s thoughts, using compelling imagery and storytelling.
Q: You’ve received praise from notable figures like Steve Lamacq, John Kennedy, and Jess Iszatt. How does it feel to have such recognition from influential tastemakers?
Jaz: It’s incredibly validating and humbling to receive praise from such respected figures in the industry. Their support means a lot to us and motivates us to keep pushing our creative boundaries.
Q: Your previous work has been well-received, and there’s a noted maturity in your sound. How do you think your music has evolved since your debut EP?
Jaz: Our music has definitely evolved since our debut EP. We’ve grown more confident in our sound and more willing to experiment with different styles and themes. The new EP reflects a deeper exploration of our musical influences and personal experiences.
Q: What can fans expect from your EP launch show at Sebright Arms on March 6th? Any surprises or special elements planned for the performance?
Jaz: Fans can expect an energetic and immersive performance at the Sebright Arms. We’re planning some special elements and surprises to make the launch show a memorable experience. It’s going to be a celebration of the new EP and a chance to connect with our audience in a live setting.
Q: The EP explores themes of emptiness, loneliness, and the pursuit of pleasure. How do these themes resonate with your personal experiences or observations?
Jaz: These themes are very personal to me and resonate deeply with my experiences and observations. The pursuit of pleasure often leads to moments of emptiness and loneliness, and I wanted to capture that duality in the music. It’s a reflection on the highs and lows of life and the human condition.
Q: How do you hope listeners will connect with ‘We’ll Always Have Vegas’? What do you want them to take away from the EP?
Jaz: I hope listeners find a sense of connection and relatability in the EP. I want them to feel understood and to see their own experiences reflected in the music. Ultimately, I hope the EP encourages people to embrace their emotions and to find beauty in the journey of self-discovery.
Q: What’s next for Modern Guilt after the release of this EP? Are there any upcoming projects or tours we should look out for?
Jaz: After the release of the EP, we’re planning to go on tour to promote the new music. We also have some exciting projects in the pipeline that we can’t wait to share with our fans. Stay tuned for more updates on our social media and website.
Q: Where can fans find and follow your music and updates online?
Jaz: Fans can follow us on our social media platforms and check out our website for the latest updates and music releases. We’re active on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook, and you can find our music on Spotify and other streaming platforms.
Stay connected with Modern Guilt and experience the new EP, ‘We’ll Always Have Vegas,’ available on March 8, 2024. Don’t miss their EP launch show at Sebright Arms, London, on March 6th. Join them on their musical journey and explore the depths of emotion and creativity in their latest release.
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