American Steel…where do I begin? A little over 10 years ago I discovered American Steel and little did I know, at that point, they would become one of my favorite bands of all time. Shortly after my initial discovery, on a warm night in the back of Sound Idea Records, I finally got the opportunity to see them play in support of Ann Beretta. They absolutely blew my mind. From that point on I became enamored with American Steel and they have been my favorite band ever since. Years passed, they formally dissolved and returned as Communiqué, and then to the adulation of a huge chunk of the underground music community they regrouped some time last year. This past winter I was afforded the opportunity to interview the band. Below is one of the two interviews that I received in return. Ladies and gentlemen, introducing a band that needs no introduction, American Steel!
Who am I speaking with?
Rory.
How and when did you become actively involved in music?
I had piano lessons as a boy, as well as playing in the school music programs growing up. I first became really passionate about music when I took up guitar and began writing my own songs when I was 12. Although before that I was always tinkering on whatever was about, mainly inventing my own melodies.
One thing has always impressed me with American Steel (and extending to Communiqué) is that on the outside, from the fans perspective, friendship seems to be the foundation of the band. How important is friendship to the band?
Very important. We started off as a bit of a party band, playing together for something to do with ourselves. We were sitting around drinking beer together anyway, so starting a group was a step towards being somewhat constructive. I would not be in a group where I was not friends with the others.
Photo by: Steve Loewinsohn
Take me back to 1995 when American Steel first started. Beyond the obvious (progression of song writing, etc.), how have things changed for you as a band?
Well, we used to just spend hours playing songs that I had written the previous years, drinking beer, switching off instruments and generally having a laugh. Our first shows were parties, but things sort of fed themselves. Our first club show we were offered a record, and we ran with it because it was good fun. We booked our own tours, eventually other labels, bands were interested and we began to grow out the basements. That is, they were starting to get dangerous. It stayed fun until we stopped in 2001. With some time away, we’re having fun again and have the same spirit as when we first started.
What effect if any has that had on your personal life?
Playing music has been the dominant element in my life for at least 15 years. Aside from my family it really has guided me everywhere I’ve gone, everyone I’ve met, almost everything I’ve done. It’s been a great adventure, I think especially coming from the underground.
Back in 1995 did you ever think that you would get the opportunity to record three EPs and four LPs, and go on countless tours all over the place playing with some really amazing bands?
I hoped we would, but I had no illusions much less the ambitions frankly. I’ve always been up for some fun and adventure, and I’ve gone where the wind was blowing for much of my life. I really wouldn’t change anything.
Initially American Steel ceased to be after you had gone on some pretty high profile tours namely with Murder City Devils (who were at their height of popularity) and Hot Water Music. When you reformed under the American Steel moniker was there a conscious decision to pick up where you left off, or did you go into things with an attitude of whatever happens happens, and let’s just take things as they go?
I’d say more the latter as there wasn’t much in the way of premeditation. Although, it did feel like picking up right from where we left off in many different ways.
All of you have been playing music for the better part of your lives. Are there any drawbacks to being a musician?
Money. I don’t mind being poor, but we’ve all delayed some non musical intellectual ambitions to be in a band. Many bands hang it up by a certain age if they haven’t made enough to live on. It’s sad really, sadder still that many fans have an air of entitlement about the music they choose to listen to. Some even believing that bands should play only out of love and specifically make no money. Which most do, and only seek to make a meager living where they can pay rent, and don’t have to work the kind of jobs that either allow you to go on tour or are insignificant enough to leave forever when it’s time to tour. That is, jobs most music fans wouldn’t deign to work themselves. And no, bands don’t make any money on tour unless they are drawing over 1,000 people every night, so people will need to find another way to justify not paying for music. It’s disgusting that so many people have no respect and almost disdain for those who spend their lives creating the music they so enjoy.
Photo by: Chrissy Piper
Being in a band can make you feel the highest of highs and sometimes the lowest of lows. What keeps you going as a band?
Ultimately the same thing that got us started, the love of writing and playing music. That’s all there is for most of us.
What was the last ingenious thing that you’ve done?
Uh… Maybe the avocado serrano chili salsa I made a few days ago.
You all seem to big soul fans like myself. What underdog groups/artists do you think more people should know about? Personally I think more people should listen to Frank Wilson, Mary Wells, and the Velvelettes.
First, fans of soul music should buy Sam Cooke “Live at Harlem Square” if they do not already have it. It’s amazing, and will surprise casual fans of The Cooke. Also, hearing Nina Simone cover Nick Drake is equally transcendent. I would definitely suggest looking for rare and non cd released recordings from well known artists. Like Al Green’s and Stevie Wonders’ rad Beatles covers.
This question might be a bit cryptic, but what song would you want to be played at your funeral?
Adagio For Strings by Samuel Barber. That’s incredibly somber, so I would want to lighten the mood by having Rodney Dangerfield interrupt the service with a keg of beer to “Louie Louie” by the Kingsmen. “Hey, we’re all gonna get laid!”
Any last words of inspiration or comments?
Be good.
For tour dates and more, visit their website at www.americansteel.org
