NAILS: New album, lineup changes, Terror & more (Todd Jones)
Jul 8, 2024
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Todd Jones, a hardcore punk icon known for his roles in Nails and Terror, shares his insights on music and creativity. He reflects on the return of Nails after a long break, discussing lineup changes and the motivation for their new album. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by musicians post-pandemic and the importance of honest feedback in artistic growth. Todd also talks about experimenting with diverse influences and the joy of collaboration, emphasizing authenticity and emotional depth in songwriting.
Todd Jones emphasizes the importance of evolving Nails' sound by incorporating melodic elements and new influences to maintain artistic integrity.
The pandemic catalyzed significant lineup changes in Nails, allowing Todd to collaborate with new musicians and refresh his creative process.
Deep dives
Return of Nails
Todd Jones expresses excitement about returning to music with Nails after several years. Although there were misunderstandings regarding the band going on hiatus, he clarifies that he was always focused on Nails and was simply experiencing burnout while trying to create new material. The pandemic prompted significant changes, including a separation from previous band members and an opportunity to work with Terror on their 2022 album. Collaborating with new musicians and refreshing his creative process has led to Nails' upcoming album, set to release in August, marking a noteworthy return.
Creative Evolution and Influences
Nails' sound has evolved, with Todd incorporating more melodic elements into their upcoming music. Influenced by classic rock bands like Van Halen, he explores expressiveness in his guitar playing, aiming to enhance the band's auditory palette. Rather than repeating past successes, Todd seeks to innovate and ensure that each album offers something distinctly new while maintaining the band’s core identity. This evolution is not only a response to his personal journey but also a way to keep the music engaging for the audience.
Songwriting and Emotional Connection
Nails' songs are characterized by their unique identities, a reflection of Todd's deep understanding of music. Inspired by varied genres, he emphasizes emotional expression in songwriting, aiming to avoid monotony within the hardcore genre. Acknowledging the challenge of maintaining distinctiveness while remaining within specific genre boundaries, he leverages personal experiences to create relatable and impactful music. This commitment to crafting unique songs is rooted in his belief that music should resonate emotionally with listeners.
Authenticity in Artistry
Todd reveals that his approach to music is anchored in authenticity rather than following trends, which contributes to the genuine reception of Nails. He credits his longevity in music to a dedication to artistic integrity and a deep obsession with the craft, rather than mere technical talent. Recognizing his influences, he appreciates the significance of recontextualizing borrowed ideas to create something original and uniquely his. This dedication ensures that, regardless of the musical styles he draws from, the final product remains distinctly a reflection of Todd’s artistry.