Nai Palm, the soulful vocalist and guitarist of Hiatus Kaiyote, joins bandmates Perrin Moss, a dynamic drummer, and Simon Mavin, a keyboardist with a flair for harmony. They discuss their latest album, 'Love Heart Cheat Code,' and the magic of spontaneous collaboration. Expect insights into their creative process, unique live performance challenges, and how scientific themes inspire their music. Humorous anecdotes about their journeys and the integral role of authenticity round out an engaging conversation.
Hiatus Kaiyote's unique collaborative spirit allows each member to fluidly switch instruments and contribute to the songwriting process.
Their latest album, 'Love Heart Cheat Code,' showcases the band's ability to blend strong songwriting with complex musical ideas and influences.
The band's live performances recreate intricate studio tracks with spontaneity, ensuring an immersive experience while celebrating their musicianship.
Deep dives
Collaborative Spirit of Hiatus Coyote
Hiatus Coyote embodies a unique collaborative spirit, with each member capable of switching instruments and contributing to the songwriting process. The band's members include vocalist and guitarist Napalm, drummer Perrin Moss, bassist Paul Bender, and keys player Simon Mavin, all of whom interchange roles fluidly. This versatility enhances their creative output, allowing them to explore a vast range of musical ideas and expressions, leading to a distinctive sound that has captivated both fans and notable artists like Erykah Badu and Robert Glasper. The group has successfully collaborated with other influential figures in music, showcasing their openness to artistic partnerships while maintaining their signature style.
The Art of Songwriting
The songwriting process for Hiatus Coyote is dynamic and can take various forms, reflecting the improvisational nature of their music. Sometimes, finished songs emerge from completely formed ideas brought by individual members, while at other times, they develop lyrics in response to instrumental riffs. For instance, the track 'Make Friends' was spontaneously created in the studio when one member brought in a piano riff that inspired the others to contribute. This organic approach allows the band to maintain authenticity in their music while continually evolving their sound.
The New Album: 'Love Heart Cheat Code'
Their latest album, 'Love Heart Cheat Code,' showcases some of the band's strongest songwriting and complex musical ideas, enhancing their reputation for crafting soul-infused songs. The album features pieces that represent a blend of various influences, with tracks like 'Dimitri' and 'Make Friends' highlighting their ability to weave intricate melodies and harmonies. The band discusses recording processes that often involve spontaneity, with ideas and songs frequently emerging during jam sessions and tours, demonstrating their commitment to creativity and exploration. By emphasizing cohesive narratives and distinct song structures, the album elevates the group's artistry while offering listeners a complete musical experience.
Performances and the Live Experience
Hiatus Coyote's live performances are characterized by their ability to recreate intricate studio tracks while allowing for improvisation and spontaneity. The band invests significant effort into translating the complex arrangements and sounds from their albums to the stage. Each member uses effects and samples to bring their studio sound to life, ensuring the energy remains high during performances. The use of live effects, along with a determination to avoid relying on backing tracks, allows them to create a unique and immersive experience for their audience while celebrating their musicianship.
Influences and Future Prospects
The band's influences span various genres and cultures, providing a foundation for their eclectic sound. They often pull inspiration from both contemporary artists and historical figures in music, evident in their discussions of covering songs and incorporating unique elements into their arrangements. Hiatus Coyote expresses an enthusiasm for future collaborations, indicating a desire to create music that continues to evolve both individually and collectively. As they look ahead, the group remains focused on their artistic journey, highlighting their commitment to pushing creative boundaries and finding their own voice in the ever-changing landscape of modern music.
Hiatus Kaiyote is an incredibly talented group of four Australian musicians—vocalist and guitarist Nai Palm, drummer Perrin Moss, bassist Paul Bender and Simon Mavin on keys. But those aren’t permanent stations for any of them, they often move between instruments and all contribute to writing some of the most beautiful soulful music of the last decade.
Their latest album, Love Heart Cheat Code, came out earlier this year. It's the group’s fourth proper album and features some of their strongest songwriting yet while still managing to weave in some of the incredibly complex musical ideas they’re known for.
For today's episode, Justin Richmond met up with Hiatus Kaiyote at NRG Studios in Los Angeles, at the end of their US tour to talk through their new album. They also touch on their role as collaborators within—and outside of—the group, and we'll hear them perform a live set.