

Episode 296 - Mac DeMarco
5 snips Sep 18, 2025
Mac DeMarco, the Canadian singer-songwriter known for his lo-fi style, dives into his latest album, *Guitar*. He shares his unique songwriting process, emphasizing the role of guitar in his music. Personal themes of identity and home are central to his creativity. Mac also discusses his DIY recording methods and the joy of capturing spontaneous vibes in first takes. He reflects on the balance between urban inspiration and remote creativity, while clearly stating his current preference for solo work over collaborations.
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DIY Recording Shapes The Sound
- Mac records solo because it gives him artistic control and a distinct personal stamp on the work.
- He values the DIY method as both statement and the only way he truly knows how to make records.
Imperfection Creates Identity
- Imperfections and idiosyncrasies can define an artist's voice more than chasing perfect vintage tones.
- Mac prefers unique, 'messed up' sounds because they make his records feel specific and real.
Build Tracks From Acoustic Scratch
- Do a scratch acoustic and vocal first, then add drums and bass to build a track quickly.
- Record the vocal early to capture the song's immediate feel before overworking it.