Guests Eno Williams, Max Grunhard, and Mac McCaughan discuss immigration, sanctuary, and artists' responsibility. They also explore the profound feeling of relief and the importance of praising work. Fear, talent, transgression, leaving home, and the radical act of welcoming are also discussed.
‘Color in Your Cheeks’ by The Mountain Goats highlights the importance of welcoming immigrants and refugees and creating safe spaces for them.
Art can effectively convey political messages while still providing a positive and inclusive environment for people to come together and have fun.
Deep dives
The Power of Welcoming Others
The song 'Color in Your Cheeks' by The Mountain Goats explores themes of immigration, refugees, and the importance of welcoming others. The lyrics tell the stories of individuals coming to a new place, whether it's Taipei or Mexico, and the impact that a warm welcome can have on them. The song emphasizes the need to create safe spaces and offer sanctuary to those who have faced hardships and displacement. It highlights the significance of expressing acceptance and making newcomers feel valued and appreciated.
The Intersection of Art and Politics
In this podcast episode, there is a discussion about the role of artists in addressing political issues. The conversation raises questions about whether artists have an obligation to create political art and how art can interact with the current political environment. While some argue that political art is necessary to bring attention to social issues, others believe that art can also provide a positive and inclusive space that offers hope and joy to people. The episode showcases how music and dance, like Afrobeat and reggae, have been effective in conveying political messages while still inviting people to have fun and come together.
Creating Safe Spaces Through Music
The cover of 'Color in Your Cheeks' by the band Bibio Sound Machine is featured in this episode. The band discusses their approach to the song, explaining that they tried to maintain the positive and party-like atmosphere while also capturing the song's political message. They emphasize how music can be a means of communication and a way to create safe spaces. The power of dancing, partying, and engaging with music is discussed as an effective way to connect with others and spread positive messages, even in the face of challenging political climates.
Artistic Expression and Personal Integrity
The podcast episode also delves into the creative process and the relationship between personal beliefs and artistic expression. John Darnielle, the lead singer of The Mountain Goats, shares his approach to songwriting, explaining that he starts writing without a specific idea and trusts that the expression that emerges will be true to him or the persona he inhabits. The discussion touches on the importance of authenticity and the ability to make art that reflects one's values, as well as the significance of inviting listeners into a shared experience and creating a sense of belonging.
“Color in Your Cheeks” is a song about immigration, refugees, and welcoming—the simple act of saying “You are not from here, but we’re glad you’re here now.” It seemed like a good year to talk about that. Featuring guests Eno Williams and Max Grunhard (Ibibio Sound Machine) and Mac McCaughan (Superchunk, co-founder of Merge Records).
Buy Ibibio Sound Machine’s cover of “Color in Your Cheeks” on iTunes, Bandcamp, or wherever you buy digital music. It supports both the artist and the show!
Credits: Joseph Fink (host), John Darnielle (host), Christy Gressman (producer), Grant Stewart (editor), Vincent Cacchione (mixer). Rob Wilson (logo). Produced by Night Vale Presents in collaboration with Merge Records and the Mountain Goats.
