Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond

Nada Surf

Feb 4, 2025

Mathew Caws, lead singer and primary songwriter of indie rock band Nada Surf, dives into his reflective songwriting roots and the band’s evolution. He shares vivid memories of growing up surrounded by baroque music in Manhattan and how it shaped his artistry. Caws also recounts a memorable performance backing Joey Ramone, and explores socio-political themes in their latest album, "Moon Mirror." Listeners are treated to live performances that showcase the band’s introspective sound and heartfelt lyrics.

53:53

Creator website

Episode guests

Mathew Caws

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Nada Surf's evolution in the indie rock scene is marked by their introspective songwriting, particularly evident in their latest album 'Moon Mirror.'

Matthew Caws attributes his reflective songwriting style to his upbringing in a Baroque music-filled household, which has shaped his melodic sensibilities.

The band creatively experiments with sound layering, utilizing double and triple tracking to enhance their rich, textured aural experience in recordings.

Deep dives

Nada Surf: A New York Band with Roots in Vermont

Nada Surf emerged as a significant player in the indie rock scene, particularly noted for their hit 'Popular,' which gained traction on college radio in the late 90s. The band formed while its members were attending college in Vermont, but they are primarily recognized as a New York City band, with lead singer Matthew Kaz's songwriting reflecting his experiences and surroundings. The band continues to evolve creatively, with their latest album, 'Moon Mirror,' showcasing their introspective lyrical style. This album, now their tenth studio release, exemplifies their enduring ability to connect emotionally with listeners through thoughtful music.

Intro

5min

Art and Dialogue in Troubling Times

8min

Exploring the Distinctive Sound of Music Creation

7min

Musical Memories and Influences

15min

Journeys Through Early Career and Creative Inspirations

10min

Creative Harmony: The Band's Journey

8min

Mindfulness and Creative Reflection

5min

Indie rock band Nada Surf first hit big on college radio in 1996 with their driving, guitar forward song, “Popular.” The band started playing together four years earlier while attending college in Vermont. But they’re perhaps best known as a New York City band, where their lead singer and primary songwriter, Matthew Caws came of age.

Caws is known as a vulnerable, and often reflective songwriter who tackles everything from social anxiety to politics in his work. Nada Surf’s latest album, Moon Mirror, is the band’s tenth studio album. It's both introspective and at times, and hard hitting.

On today’s episode Bruce Headlam talks to Matthew Caws about growing up on Manhattan’s Upper West Side in a house filled with baroque music, and how he thinks some of the classical instrumentation may have influenced his own writing. Mathew also recalls the time Nada Surf backed up Joey Ramone and played a full Ramones set at Coney Island High. And he performs two songs from Nada Surf’s latest album, Moon Mirror, for us live.

You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite Nada Surf songs HERE.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts

Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.

Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond

Nada Surf

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Deep dives

Nada Surf: A New York Band with Roots in Vermont

Influence of Classical Music on Songwriting

Exploring Themes of Humanity in Lyrics

Crafting the Signature Nada Surf Sound

Personal Trials Reflected in Songwriting

Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts