INTERVIEW: HERCULES AND LOVE AFFAIR
What's been happening in the world of Hercules and Love affair?
The new album, Blue Songs, has been released on Moshi Moshi in the UK and Europe, which is very exciting. A large tour of Europe is currently happening to support the release.
So what was the trigger to form the collective?
Andy enivisioned a cast of various collaborators to help him realize his songs. The critical success of the first album made it necessary to form a touring band to support the work. For this second album nearly all of the vocal contributors are available to tour.
How did you come up with the name?
Andy derived the name from his fascination with a particular Greek myth about Hercules longing for the love of his partner who was lost on a foreign island. Hercules refused to leave the island until his 'love affair' was found.
Andy's been Djing for years in the vibrant US club scene, was Hercules the accumulation of everything he experienced as a Dj or were there other factors which influenced him in triggering the collective?
It is my understanding that Andy's interest in music began in his very early childhood when he received regular piano lessons. He has also been collecting obscure recordings from bands like Earache that he wouldn't normally play out at a gig.
He studied composition in college and so his work is a reflection of a broader musical landscape that includes, but is not limited to, djing and dance culture.
When you formed the group was it a case of everything falling into place, with the right people at the right time?
Yes, the process was very organic.
Have you known each other for a while?
I've known Andy for almost 3 years and Mark has known him about the same amount of time. He met Daniella before Hercules was fully realized in Berlin and has known Kim Ann for close to a decade. They, of course, have the most intimate and long-standing relationship.
How does the collective operate... does everyone input their own ideas or is there a clear drive to keep things in some kind of central direction?
Andy is the central creative force. He writes the song lyrics and handles a very large portion of all production. The contribution of each collaborator varies depending on the nature of the work or song. He is up for suggestions if it works best for the song so at times it can be flexible.
If someone has been hiding in a cave for the last four years and had never heard of you... how would you describe what your music sounds like and what you are all about?
Forward-thinking reflections on music rooted in the past few decades (not just dance music) that is from and authentic place.
When in the studio, do you have a road map or is it a completely fluid process?
It depends on the day and work in question. Sometimes the track is already worked out and Andy write's lyrics to it. Other times he will sit you down at the piano and began to work out a melody or chord progression from scratch.
What's your favourite Hercules and Love Affair track and why?
That's a tough one because I honestly think they all are interesting and different. But if I had to go out on a limb I would choose 'Easy'. It's so lush and evocative. 'Answers Come In Dreams' is a close second. I find the lyrics extremely poignant and beautiful.
Electronic music has undergone somewhat of a revival and is one of the few true outlets for the freedom of expression... How do you feel about mainstream music and the domination of the major labels?
Oftentimes, this music is created in a formulaic way that does not embrace the warmth of older disco, house or techno. I would not compare a large majority of this dance music with the rooted, emotional work that you can still find in the more underground scene.
Who are your favourite artists / producers of the moment?
Personally, I think Azari & III have been releasing consistently strong singles and remixes. I think they have a bright future. Andy is very supportive of Kink and In Flagranti but I'm sure there are other artists that capture his attention, too.
What's been the biggest / best gig for you so far?
Wow, there have been quite a few. I would say that some cities that the new lineup has had the pleasure of playing on multiple occasions and have had consistently good shows and responsive audiences include Vienna, London, Milan, etc. A surprisingly good show happened in Seattle last year. The energy was through the roof!
What was the first record you bought (no matter how embarrassing)?
The first record I purchased was Dajae's "U Got Me Up" remix package.
Have you been to Scotland before, what have you heard about the Death Disco crowd?
What can we expect to hear from you when you play the fabulous Death Disco in the Arches? Banging jams from the first and second album and a few surprising cover songs.
Are you going to stay for a few days after the gig and check out Scotland?
Unfortunately, we must head out after the show.
So what have you got planned for the future? More touring.
We're excited about the summer festival season!
