Nov 19, jhainish asked:
Dear Mr. Saunier,
I saw on a film of you guys playing you had your ride cymbal on a hi hat stand and could mute it though you were still doing it with your left foot, did you build the rigging? Im about to embark on building one if thats the case, I think i have a vague idea, just curious how you did it?
Answer:
What Greg was using on tour was called a remote hi-hat. It basically uses a cable to open and close instead of a rod, kind of like how a bike hand brake cable works. There's several companies that make them, you can find them really easily. Make your own though, if you're handy! That's what I say! -ed
Nov 16, Danny asked:
Thank you for coming to Los Angeles, twice! I have been to many shows but you guys are great! One of the best I have experienced. Have you ever thought about collaborating with other people? Maybe having a guest appearance on an album with some hip hop people from the bay or here in L.A.? (Del/hieroglyphics, Gift of gab, zion i, Madlib) That would be really cool! (I know that's a big stretch) Thanks again!!!
Answer:
The band has worked with LA based rapper Busdriver in the past, present and future so keep an eye open for something soon! We're always open to any possibities. Who knows what tomorrow will bring?
Nov 16, Jeff asked:
What do you guys think of that other "deer" band? You know, the one with the skinny dude.
Answer:
The Deer Park High School marching band? We love them! We encourage all young people to play an instrument. It doesn't make any difference if you're skinny or not. Just enjoy yourselves.
Nov 16, andy asked:
when are you coming in italy (rome)?
:D
Answer:
We are still working on our European tour for this December so keep an eye on our page for updates soon! -ed
Nov 14, steve asked:
you guys make me laugh. but that s a good thing, in case you thought it was derogatory. what kind of amps do you use? i dug that you guys did home recordings and now that you just worked at tiny telephone, i would like to know what you thought of that environment compared to being able to record whenever you want in a familiar and comfortable setting.
Answer:
Thanks! We make us laugh, too! Both our guitar heads were custom made for us by our friend, Dave Broekema. You can check out his work at - www.myspace.com/nerdamplification. They're amazing! Working at Tiny Telephone was a great experience, made even better by recording with both Jay and Ian Pellecci. (Ian also comes with us on tour to do live sound). There's obviously benefits to either home or studio recording. We only had 2 days to track all the instruments and then we mixed and mastered the record at home (for weeks and weeks!). When we record at home we have all the time in the world, but something special can definitely occur with the intense pace of the studio that can't happen at home. Neither one is better, just different! After we wrote Offend Maggie, we felt as though those songs would come though the best by recording the way we did. And we couldn't have been happier with the results! - ed
Nov 12, Jacob asked:
Hey Deerhoof, I saw you all at The Crowbar in Ybor. Easily the best concert I have ever been to, Thank You.
I would like to know if you all have any live albums for sale, I find Greg's drumming amazing and he seems to open up more in live shows.
Enjoy the Tour and Thanks for being Awesome!
Answer:
There was a live album released in 2001 entitled Koalamagic. It's pretty hard to find now though, it's been out of print for a while. We do have plans of getting something newer out as soon as we can, so watch out! Until then you'll have to watch videos and come and see us live again. Thanks for coming to the Crowbar! - ed
Nov 11, Rob Demperio asked:
When you played in Tampa in Nov.08 who was the first band who opened for you? I know Experimental Dental School but it was the other band... What a great show! I hope you come back to Florida.
Answer:
That band was Fertile Crescent! They're also 2/3 of another band named Flying. Check them both out! www.myspace.com/fertcres - www.myspace.com/flying
Nov 10, John S asked:
Dear hoof,
Your concert in Houston made my heart happy. How is it playing songs from the new album live? Have you been improvising more with them? Also does Greg ever sing any of his songs live? Come back to Texas soon!
Answer:
Thanks! Playing all the new material is really exciting! I like the feeling of getting closer and closer to the material and discovering new things about it each show. There are definitely unique and special moments that happen with each of the songs live. It's not often the we abandon the song and just improvise but we do vary some of the feel, the way that we play it rather than ignore the notes and form completely. Greg does sing live but we didn't get a chance to incorporate that into the tour this time. But his voice will make a reappearance at shows soon! And yes! We WILL be back soon, we had a great time at all our Texas shows. Thanks to everyone that came in Houston, Dallas, Austin and El Paso! - ed
Nov 09, Timothy asked:
When you come to LA on Friday, will you PLEASE play Numina O?
Answer:
We always choose our set list the day of the show wherever we are, but when we're doing that I will put in one extra vote for Numina O on your behalf. See you then! We're really looking forward to that show! - ed
Nov 08, Samantha asked:
When are you coming to Los Angeles?
Answer:
We'll be there November 14th! We're playing at the Echoplex with Experimental Dental School and KIT. It'll be ALL AGES too! Hope to see you there! - ed
Nov 08, Drew asked:
Have you guys ever considered releasing a DVD of your music videos an concerts?
Answer:
We get asked this all the time! It's something that we definitely want to do in the future. We have never stopped compiling footage spanning the years so when the time comes, we are planning on it being something very special!
Nov 08, Frank Scheck/Hollywood Reporter asked:
Who handles your publicity?
Answer:
Marisa Handren at Four Paws. The absolute best! www.fourpawsmedia.com
Nov 08, Romain asked:
Hi !
To John and Ed : What is your musical background? The way you play is so inventive. Did you take lessons at a music institute and absorbed a lot of theory or are you perfect self-taught guitarists? Being also a guitarist, I'm taking jazz lessons right now but I'm also afraid that too much theory would reduce my spontaneity in composition... Any advice for a learning guitarist?
Thanks for your time !
Answer:
John and I have different backgrounds. John is almost entirely self taught and doesn't really have a background in theory. He has always worked incredibly hard and has always had a very unique voice since I first met him over a decade ago. I studied jazz and classical theory, usually privately or on my own, to this day. Personally I don't think you should be afraid to learn anything. Only you can let it reduce your creativity. Greg has a Masters degree in music and he's one of the most creative musicians I know. Conversely, some "educated" musicians that I have encountered have been the least able to think in a unique way. The best advice I could give is use the most of what you have. Seek to find what is truly unique in yourself and do everything you can to further that. For me, I realized things about myself as a musician and sought out information that advanced that. Be yourself. As John Cage said, - "I’m devoted to the principle of originality, not originality in the egotistic sense, but originality in the sense of doing something which is necessary to do. Now, obviously, the things that it is necessary to do are not those that have been done, but the ones that have not yet been done." - ed
Nov 07, Robbie asked:
Was it just me or was that show in New Orleans on FIRE?!!! Satomi went crazy with that tiger mask. John looked like a raptor on the hunt. I don't see many bands that do two encores. Also did you have a chance to listen to the CD I gave Greg? He was very nice and gracious when we talked. I did not realize Ed was a native Mobilian. PS- I was serious about the trumpet player offer. Contact me for any instrumental needs barring drums hehe. Thanks again. Hope to see you again sooner than later.
Answer:
F-I-R-E! Hey there Robbie! Thanks for coming and thanks for your kind words! I am not actually from Mobile but I was in a band, xbxrx, which featured 2 Mobilianites (the mighty brothers Steve Touchton and Vice Cooler). I think that's how that idea may have gotten around. I'm a Wisconsinite through and through (as is John). I will let Greg know that you wrote and I'm sure your CD will get some play action in the minivan. That's what we do all day! - ed
Nov 07, shane asked:
are you touring in australia any time soon??
Answer:
There are plans to go to Australia very soon, hopefully around February. Keep an eye on our dates! Things will be added over the next few months. Everyone really wants to get back to Australia, it's like a dream vacation getting to play there!
Nov 06, heather asked:
are you playing any other shows while in Austin for fun fun fun fest?
Answer:
No, we'll only be doing one show that day. I have to see Bad Brains you know! Our tour mates Experimental Dental School will also be playing the fest and KIT will be playing an afterparty at the Mohawk. I recommend checking them both out. There'll be no shortage of music on Saturday, that's for sure! -ed
Nov 03, Dan asked:
Just wanted to say how much I enjoyed your Tampa show last night. I've only been to a few concerts, but that was definately my favorite so far. I was just wondering, how do you go about picking opening bands? Are they just friends of yours, or you heard them and liked them, or how does that work? And what was it like opening for Radiohead?
Well, thanks for coming to Florida, (Twice, in fact). We sometimes get shafted when it comes to concerts. I had fun, and it's nice to see that you guys seemed to enjoy yourselves, too. And now I have a Deerhoof magnet proudly adorning the center of my fridge, to protect it. That's cool too.
Answer:
There hasn't been any set way we've picked our openers yet. In some cases we had been friends with the bands for quite some time, and in others we have had the pleasure of becoming friends as the tour goes on. But the first decision we make is picking a band that is playing music that we feel is something special, that has an energy we connect with. For this tour our openers were Experimental Dental School, Hawnay Troof, Okay, Happy Hollows, Flying, Au, Fertile Crescent, Nymph, Fat Worm of Error and KIT. I've known some of them for years and met some the first time on this tour. But they're all bands that we felt people would love to see! May your magnet serve you well for years! Thank you so much for coming to the show! -ed
Nov 02, Ben asked:
I read the previous “bass” question on here, and I’d like to build off it (that bass IS awesome). It seems like most music production tends to shy away from ‘trebley,’ punchy bass these days, instead trading texture for ‘oomph.’ When I saw you live, I couldn’t tell if that was a Hoffner bass or Rickenbacker or whatever, but you definitely have that ‘Beatle bass’ sort of sound. Is this conscious? Or circumstantial? I notice that sort of thing going on in anything from the Who to Beefheart to ‘There’s a Riot Goin On,” but I don’t hear it much anymore. Why Deerhoof?
Answer:
We don't know! We're confused too! We love the sound! Satomi's bass is an old Hofner Beatle bass with flat wound strings, it sounds great. Those strings really add a lot to the tone. The sound of the bass was definitely a conscious choice. Satomi really wanted to play a six string flying V bass with a a whammy bar but we talked her out of it.
Nov 02, Seth asked:
Do you know how good you guys actually are? I thought you guys were phenomenal when a friend of mine played Apple O' for me, but after seeing you when you came through Michigan most recently, I wanted to quit playing music all together-it was that good. I almost should be upset with you, because now whenever I listen to any other band, I'm always a little disappointed...
I wish you the best and hope you can come back to Michigan soon!
Answer:
Seth! Don't quit!! That's not what we're trying to do! We promise to come back to Michigan if you promise to never think about stopping. How's that for a deal?
Nov 01, James asked:
Have you ever used string players in your music? I play the double bass and would give anything to play with you. Please add me to your mailing list.
Answer:
We generally just try to use the instruments that the people in the band know how to play, so we haven't used strings. We have used some string samples, though! Thanks for writing!
John
Nov 01, Gene asked:
I'm very upset to be missing you guys right now... =( And tomorrow. I haven't loved a band this much since I discovered the Clash when i was 14... I'll miss you again tomorrow... I have work to do... Will you come back soon? Can tempt you to do so with fast food and mystery science theater 3000 dvds to return asap?
Answer:
Thanks for writing, Gene! So glad you get so much from the music. I take it you live in Orlando? Sorry you missed the show. We love playing the Social! Anyway, I hope we'll be back in 2009. Hope to see you then!
Nov 01, shawn asked:
hey guys. first off, i love you. ! annnnd, well, i was wonderin two things...any chance you guys/gal coming back to maine? we love you, and the last time i saw you live, you were a trio,and i wanna meet ed. also wonderin if there is any future plans of re releasing any of the old albums on to vinyl?
Answer:
Hey Shawn -- thanks for writing. We don't have any current plans to come back up to Maine, but I hope we'll do so soon. maybe in 2009 sometime? And you can meet Ed then. As for re-releasing the albums on vinyl, there are plans! More on that soon!
John
Nov 01, Óskar Örn asked:
Typical unoriginal fan-question!! : Any plans on visiting Stockholm, Sweden in the coming months?? Would make my winter!
Greetings from the north, Óskar Örn
Answer:
No plans yet, Oskar, but maybe sometime in 2009. Thanks for writing.
John
Nov 01, Ryan asked:
Hey Guys! Life-affirming, incredible show in Carrboro!
What would be featured inside of a Deerhoof pinball machine? a dancing Milk Man with bananas and strawberries? a rusty car tomb? pandas and jumping bunnies? maybe a reveille bugle call or Greg's unmistakable laugh when you make a skill shot?
Answer:
I couldn't have picked better features! You're going to be in charge of all our pinball machine research and development from now on. Which makes me really happy because it'll free up a few extra hours for me every day. Thanks!! - ed
Oct 31, David asked:
How fun was the Nashville show (10.30.2008) for you guys? You all seemed to be really having a blast and the new dynamic with Ed seems fantastic! Satomi obviously loved the dancing guy (didn't we all?). Oh and Ed, where did you get that smile???
Answer:
Sooooo fun! We completely had a blast and the dancing guy caught Satomi off guard, she couldn't stop laughing when she saw him! It was like we had a party plant in the crowd and we had him go nuts to get everyone going. But he was there all on his own, honest! And as the new guy ("Ed") I have to say thanks for the kind words. And as far as the smile goes, you try to keep from smiling while playing in Deerhoof! It's impossible! - ed
Oct 31, Jay asked:
I hope I'm not being too much of a nerd here, but can you please tell me how you guys record bass? I particularly love the gritty bass sounds on the Runner's Four and Friend Opportunity. Please be specific about the type of bass, head and cabinet or processor you're using if you don't mind.
Answer:
Hi, Jay -- Thanks for writing. Most of the bass sounds you're talking about were recorded D.I. and then worked on in the computer, and each song was a little different. Glad you're into the sounds!
John
Oct 31, LongHairedDrummer asked:
I just saw you guys Oct 29th in Asheville, and I must say, your live show was awesome in terms of energy and quality of music. So upon listen to that which is your studio records, i began wondering if you guys would ever put out a live album? Hearing your songs live was just something else.....something else!
Answer:
Hi, there -- We actually did release a live album many years ago called Koalamagic (on Dual Plover Records in Australia). I hope we will make another one in the future, though I'm not sure exactly when that will happen. Thanks for writing!
John
Oct 31, Ana asked:
Not really a question, but I wanted to say Thank You so much for playing in Nashville yesterday! It was my first concert ever, and you guys definitely made it EXTRA SPECIAL!!! Are you coming back next year?
Answer:
Thanks Ana! Wow, your first concert ever, that's indeed an honor! It feels very special, I know I'll remember my first concert always. We will do our best to be back next year. Nashville is always a ton of fun and everyone at the show was so incredible to us. How could we stay away? I hope we will see you again then!
Oct 30, brandon asked:
I saw Satomi riding a rip stick last night after the show. Is she like a hardcore skater and do like tricks and skate all over the bay area and stuff like that?
Answer:
She is the new Tony Hawk. More compact, stripped down, leaner and meaner and faster. You may be familar with the difficult skating trick "The Satomi"? It all makes sense now, doesn't it?
Oct 30, Scott asked:
hey there deerhoof! i was just curious: me and my friend talked to Greg after your recent show in Minneapolis (which was amazing by the by). we talked about how we had driven all the way down from winnipeg to see deerhoof! Greg said that your sound guy was from winnipeg, which is pretty cool. he also said that you kids were meaning to do a decent canadian tour sometime soon. is that true? or was greg just humoring me?
Answer:
WOW. All the way from Winnipeg! Thank you! Crazy! Greg was not humoring you, our sound guy Ian Pellicci was indeed born in Winnipeg. He also recorded the instruments for the new album Offend Maggie (amongst other albums) along with his brother Jay. Canadians! Essential to Deerhoof! We played several shows in Canada this year and there was something really unique about each one of them. We are really eager to come and play more shows, so check out our page once in a while. It could happen any day!
Oct 30, Brian asked:
When I listen to your music, I hear lots of excitement!!! Do you use exclamation marks when you write your music on paper; sheet music or lyrics? I think you should!
Answer:
Yes. We love exclamation marks. So much. We cannot get enough of them. Hurray for excitement. Hurray I say. End statement.
Oct 30, Sebastian asked:
When you are in Germany, why do you only play in Berlin? I hope you play in Cologne next year... the last time you played there I couldn't go (I was travelling Japan that time...).
Answer:
Hi Sebastian! It's only due to a time crunch. Berlin is the only city that worked out this tour with the routing that we needed to do. We do plan to come next year and add more cities so keep your eyes peeled. We will be in Japan at the beginning of February, if you'll be traveling around then? Maybe you could plan a special trip? That's a great excuse to go to Japan, isn't it? If you're like us you're probably looking for ANY reason to visit again! - ed
Oct 30, Brett asked:
My band is playing 5 songs of yours for a cover show tomorrow (I talked to Greg about this last night), and I was wondering at the end of Spirit Ditties of No Tone during the feedback what Greg was doing with the snare drum when his head was down to it. We wanna try this tomorrow! We'll send videos!
And thanks for blowing our minds in Asheville last night!
Love love love!
Answer:
Hi, Brett -- Thanks so much for writing. And Wow!! That's so cool you're covering some of our songs. I'd love to hear. During that feedback section, Greg sometimes sings into the snare drum. I'm not sure I'd consider that part of the composition, though! Just something he does live. Glad you enjoyed the show! Thanks for coming.
John
Oct 29, Charley asked:
Who were the support bands for your show in SpiegelWorld!!!??? I really wanna know... Do you guys have any idea? haha
Answer:
Do we have any idea! We asked them!! First up was Nymph - www.myspace.com/nymph2012 - and then next was Fat Worm of Error - http://www.myspace.com/fatwormoferror - check them both out in case you missed them!
Oct 29, Ty Sassaman asked:
If you could ask everyone you met just one question, what would you ask?
Answer:
I would ask - if you could ask everyone you met just one question, what would you ask? Did I just blow your mind? - ed
Oct 29, Jeff asked:
Are you guys even aware of how freaking awesome your band is? I talked to Greg last night after the show and he seemed amazed that we enjoyed it. There has to be some false humility going on here.
Answer:
I love our band! I think we're great! But it's always an amazing feeling finding out that other people feel the same. A big part of that is the fact that we have all been playing music for so long and the truth is, there have been MANY people who have not liked it. We all appreciate it when the music connects with another person because it will never stop feeling special, something we are so lucky to have happen. The band's intent was obviously never to make it big, otherwise it wouldn't have lasted the past decade! We all just wanted to make good music and we will always appreciate it when someone else feels like we've succeeded. -ed
Oct 29, sofia asked:
once you are coming to europe, could you come and rock PORTUGAL, please?(is just next to spain and i really want to see your show guys)
Answer:
We've gotten a few requests recently and we would love to do it. We'll do our best to make it everywhere! We would love to see you seeing our show (seeing you?). See you soon?(hopefully!) - ed
Oct 28, Alec asked:
Your song composition amazes me. How does the songwriting dynamic usually work in the band?
I'm driving four hours to see you guys in Nashville! Hooray!!!
Answer:
My goodness! Thanks for putting so much time into coming to see us! There is no set method for how we write songs or how they develop. Everyone brings in music and then it is open to input and suggestions from everyone. That's a big part of why we play together, because we respect what the others have to offer. See you in Nashville! Get some rest!
Oct 27, Jeff asked:
What songs are the most fun to play live?
Answer:
Impossible to decide! The whole set is the most fun! I have moments during different songs at each show, usually from seeing someone in the crowd being really happy that we're playing a song that they love. When I see someone singing along it makes my smile double in size. How could you pick just one song when everyone there has a different favorite? The audience reactions make each song the most fun! - ed
Oct 27, Drew asked:
Hey, would you guys want to play, like, another week or two of shows in D.C.? We could have a picnic on the Mall.
Think about it.
Answer:
You know my weakness! Picnics! And pic-a-nic baskets! Without the pesky park ranger always bothering me. We will mull it over. Thanks for wanting us so much! - ed
Oct 27, Rick asked:
Any plans to get songs into Rock Band? I think it would rule to put on Milk Man at a party with some friends.
Answer:
We would love it! Guitar Hero is one of the few games I can hold my own in. I can't play it too much though, out of fear that my guitar style changes to mashing one finger across all the strings on one of the first 4 frets. - ed
Oct 27, Michel asked:
I am locked in the Alps of Switzerland...And desperately need a Deerhoof show. What about moving the alps with your sound on the europe tour?
Answer:
Avalanche!
Oct 26, Christian asked:
i was wondering if the next time you guys come to salt lake you could please play in venue that's not 21+. Being 17 i was completely crushed when i found out you were playing at the urban lounge. i cried for weeks
Answer:
Sorry! We really try our hardest to make it work in every city. Sometimes it's just not possible due to scheduling, lack of a possible venue or some other detail. We always try and work out something that is AA, smoke free and with the best sound possible to make the show the funnest they can be. And we know that having no age limit is part of what makes the shows the best they can be. We're truly sorry to all those under 21 that couldn't get in this time! We will always do our best to not exclude anyone.
Oct 26, Andrew asked:
Yo deerhoof
I went to see you in Northampton the other night, and I have to say your performance was mind-blowing. Absolutely the best live show I've ever seen. Anyways, Greg I was the goofy kid in the flannel and purple jeans that shook your hand after the show. I'm a drummer and I was wondering whether you had your bass drum custom made or made it your self. How wide is it exactly?
Anyways come back to Massachusetts soon!
Answer:
Thanks for your kind words! We had a great time at that show! Greg's bass drum is from a Pearl Rhythm Traveler set that he found at some store. The bass drum is 20x8 inches. He is always looking for the smallest, quietest equipment that still has a great sound. There are 5 of us with all our stuff touring in a minivan so his set up really helps fit everything in there without having to ride around with drums on our laps! He even takes the head off every night and puts his snare drum inside the bass drum to give us just another little bit of space. - ed
Oct 26, JaKob asked:
Your show at Starlight was awesome!!! (words or symbols won't do justice). will you ever venture back to the tri-state area while i am still alive?
p.s sooner on my timeline would be best
Answer:
Thank you! And of course, we will be back! You won't have to wait long, we're always eager to get back. Hopefully all our timelines will contain much more Deerhoof.
Oct 26, keith le bobby asked:
if a mayonnaise sandwich was all you had to share at a picnic, would your half go to zappa or devo?
Answer:
I have to admit I'm a Devo fan but I hate to let my musical preference influence my sharing. If it's a sandwich, why not give them each an open face piece? Everyone wins (and that's the way it should be). - ed
Oct 25, Charlie Brown asked:
Does Ed have any recordings with other bands that I could check out?
Answer:
Well...since you ARE asking I was in a few bands before Deerhoof. One that is still going is Gorge Trio, also with John. Our last album, Open Mouth o'Wisp is one I'm particularly fond of. Before that I was in The Flying Luttenbachers and xbxrx (on bass). And before that Colossamite (also w John), Iceburn Collective and Sicbay (on drums). And before that I did solo organ shows as a child at supermarket openings and pancake festivals (those bootlegs are harder to get a hold of). Before that I could be found breaking guitars doing Elvis impressions or on the porch trying to impress the newspaper girl by playing La Bamba on the guitar (update: she was NOT impressed). Thanks for being interested! - ed
Oct 25, Gabriel asked:
Maybe it is a weird question, but i always do that. So, do you believe in God or who of you believe in God?
P.S.: Do you like Germany I'm Bavarian.
Answer:
We believe in a Deer god.
p.s. And we do like Germany.
p.s.s And we like you.
Oct 24, chris asked:
I noticed someone else from Chicago asked you about eating in our fine city (#1 in murders, low in math scores). I wrote you about couscous (next time you can't pass it up). Next time you play (or even pass thru), can you stop at Permament Records (easy to remember--Chicago avenue in Chicago. Be honest, do you like Chicago?
Answer:
Both John and I have a long standing Chicago family by being in Skin Graft Records bands, going back over a decade. I grew up in Milwaukee so I spent many many nights driving down to see shows (since NO ONE ever chose Milwaukee over Chicago). In all my visits, I was never once murdered or asked to take a math test. Like you said, Chicago is #1! - ed
Oct 24, Verity asked:
I was just wondering if there were any Australian shows being considered for 2009?
Answer:
Yes yes yes! We're trying to work it out so keep an eye on the dates because hopefully we will get something nailed down soon! We want to come!
Oct 24, Rick Kump asked:
Did David Byrne talk to you guys after the show in Milwaukee? He showed up near the end of your set and stood on a chair and took some pictures. He wrote about his day in Milwaukee in his journal on his site, too.
Answer:
Yes, David did come back! He was INCREDIBLY nice, as was everyone he was with. He even wrote about it on his daily blog! - http://journal.davidbyrne.com/2008/10/10152008-milwaukee.html
Oct 24, Jun_nu asked:
DO ur guy like to come to Asia? Like Thailand and Malaysia?
Answer:
We would LOVE to come! We get requests and have spoke to people about it but nothing has worked out quite yet. But I think all of us would feel lucky to get the chance to play there.
Oct 24, KANE MARSHALL asked:
I am going to see you for the third time in London - Yay! The problem is that I am going on my own again. How do I persuade my friends to give you a try?
Answer:
At a recent show, a man brought his wife for their anniversary, it was incredibly sweet. He blindfolded her, took her to the venue and then, surprise! Deerhoof! Maybe you could try that?
Oct 23, John asked:
I love your music, but I know a lot of people who don't and this makes me sad. Do you feel sad when people don't like your music?
Answer:
No, but thanks for your concern! If nature can't make something that everyone loves, how can we humans expect to do better? You know some people just can't stand the taste of an apple! That doesn't stop the apples from coming back year after year. -ed
Oct 23, Lloyd asked:
no love for Cleveland huh?
Answer:
Plenty of love! Sadly this time we will have to send you our love through the air, on internet and radio wings. Trust me, any city we missed this tour was due to scheduling, not a cruel withholding of love! How could we do that, it's not like us! Here's hoping we see each other soon...
Oct 23, nikki asked:
what is your favorite kind of chair to sit in? stand on? sleep in? and finally, sit in with a kitty napping on your lap?
Answer:
Sitting - if it's at a desk, supportive and serious. Standing - sturdy and strong. Sleeping - soft and comfortable, an upright bed almost. With a cat - whatever they would prefer. I'm guessing something luxurious and hard for me to get out of, so they can trap me there for as long as they'd like. - ed
Oct 23, luke Woods asked:
dear deerhoof? Why don't people dance to your music besides you? I think this is silly.
Answer:
I see dancing! Endless dancing! Maybe those who aren't are studying us and planning on stealing our moves? If that's not it, hopefully they're dancing somewhere inside.
Oct 23, Moshe asked:
Any plans to play in the holy land and track down the ancestors of Chris Cohen?
Answer:
Ha! No plans as of yet, but I would be VERY interested in meeting them if they're anything at all like Chris. I guarantee they'd be hilarious. Chris is one of my favorites, truly a riot and one of the most creative people ever. Seeing his band, The Curtains, was one of the most gloriously amazing and confusing shows I have ever witnessed in my life. Completely unique vision, one of a kind. - ed
Oct 22, Joshua asked:
Do you guys all pile up in the van to sleep while on tour or do you find beds to stay in?
P.S. I am endlessly impressed by the amount of love you put into the 42 seconds of the eyebright bugler. Look forward to seeing you in Dallas.
Answer:
We have our own little areas staked out. Satomi usually takes the glove compartment, John is a big fan of that area between the back seat and the door and Greg sleeps rigid, like a board supporting himself between two open windows. I'll usually sleep on the fold out sofa in the basement. - ed
Oct 22, alex asked:
If a butterfly flaps it's wings in China and a mime gets crushed alone in a forest, which it your favourite pizza?
Answer:
Who can think about eating with all the senseless mime deaths going on in this world?
Oct 19, michael asked:
what do you eat for breakfast or do you skip that and just go straight to brunch?
Answer:
We're on tour right now so we end up getting to sleep until 3 or 4am and don't wake up until 11 so technically we're already in brunch territory by the time we're moving. When we do finally get going it varies, but it will usually involve coffee, hot chocolate, tea and whatever we can track down wherever we may be. Some days are a little rougher than others, depending on where we are. Believe me! - ed
Oct 18, Mario asked:
I just found out you folks existed today and I must say, I couldn't be happier. I live in Chicago and you just played here last night. This makes me sad. I know there is a question here somewhere. Here it is: why can't you just play shows in Chicago forever?
-Mario
Answer:
Glad you found us, sorry you missed us! Maybe we can compromise and take you on tour with us? (But maybe that might not work, since there's already 5 of us in a minivan with all the equipment!). We WILL return, we had the best time at the show, as always. Hopefully we'll see you then! - ed
Oct 18, tgw asked:
Deerhoof, I think that you are so great. Now that Ed is in the band, is there a possibility of more Gorge Trio music?
Answer:
Of course! There is always something in the works but it happens v-e-r-y s-l-o-w-l-y. You may not know this but our drummer, Chad Popple, lives in Hamburg, Germany. That alone is the hugest factor of our snails pace. But we have done 2 recording sessions over the past 3 years that will make up the bulk of the new album. We also have a DVD in the works of the European tour Gorge Trio did with Deerhoof, plus our last US tour. The band started over a dozen years ago and will not be stopping ever, I promise you that. If you can be stand the pace, we will always be there for you! - ed
Oct 16, Zach asked:
Doesn't it get loud up there? Your eardrums must be like swiss cheese or some other holey cheese like lorraine or emmenthaler.
Answer:
Yes, it does get loud! But we've worked very hard to get the volume down as much as possible. It's a continuous work in progress! Greg uses incredibly small sticks and has searched very hard to find the quietest cymbals, kick and snare. John and I use single 12 inch amps and try and keep them under control. I use musicians earplugs as well because playing 40 shows in a row will wear you down! Hopefully my eardrums are like a solid block of cheddar. Yuk. Maybe we should think of a non-cheese related system of measuring this? It sounds a little gross. -ed
Oct 16, Rich asked:
How come no Mont_real...
you know it's in canada and it's weird over there. UFO and Evil Spirits...to combat each day. Help. Love the new album. Great tunes and amazing playing.
Answer:
We are getting LOADS of requests from Canada, and believe me, we've had a great time whenever we've been there. In the past year we had an amazing show in Toronto, a truly unique and wonderful experience in Halifax (can't wait to return!) and most recently a show in beautiful Stanley Park in Vancouver. At present our time has been really tight and missing Canada (and many states in the US!) have been purely scheduling issues. We hope to make it there soon! The prospect of UFOs and Evil Spirits actually makes touring Canada even more interesting! We're taking note of all the places where people are showing interest and we will do our best to reach everywhere we can! Thank you for your kind words as well!
Oct 16, Keith asked:
Are any more dates possible for the UK?
Answer:
Not at the moment! We promise we will make it back for more dates as soon as we can! Our London show was actually a surprise addition, we're all glad we're going to get to do at least one UK show. We're already trying to get our schedule together for next year and will arrive as soon as we can!
Oct 15, Todd asked:
Your music makes me wanna dance and make fun faces while staring at myself in the mirror and brushing my teeth in the morning. What music makes you want to do the same?
Oh, and are you going to play Atlanta anytime soon?
Thanks,
Todd
Answer:
Nothing makes me want to brush my teeth! Just kidding. I think it's impossible to stand still while James Brown or early Michael Jackson is playing. And the bathroom floor is perfect for those slides and twirls that are essential for that music. Just take the toothbrush out of your mouth first! As for Atlanta, we're sorry we're missing you on this tour, we will try and make it back as soon as possible. It was purely tight scheduling and it didn't work out, the closest we will be is Athens. We will make it up to you! - ed
Oct 14, Eric Bellis asked:
At your concert in Philly coming up, How much of it will be new material and how much will be older material?
Answer:
We decide our set list the day of the shows, so I can't tell you EXACTLY but I will guess that it will be about 48/52 (old/new). Or around 46.5/53.5. It's been pretty even lately, we spent a long time thinking about which songs we would focus on for the tour, hopefully we can make you happy with what we decided on! See you soon!
Oct 14, Gaia asked:
Why don't you come to Italy during the european tour?
keepin' kill rockstars!
ciao
Gaia
Answer:
We will be! Keep an eye on our page for updates soon! There will be dates added in Rome and Bologna, Austria and possibly Poland and others. Keep checking, it's not over yet!
Oct 13, Randolph asked:
You guys are going to be in Chicago this weekend. What is your favorite venue/place to eat there?
Answer:
I have a few for sure, I think we all do! Up on the top of my list are Lake Side Cafe, Soul Veg, Veggie Bite and several others I can't remember the name of. There's a buffet place thats done by weight that I went to recently that filled me up wonderfully! I'm HORRIBLE at remembering the names of restaurants. I can give you more vague descriptions of places but I'll leave you with these few! - ed
Oct 11, Pete asked:
Hi Greg & the Gang
I'd love to know, what would you imagine you might be if you were not musicians?
Thanks, Pete
Answer:
Hi Pete, That's a great question but so hard to answer because it's hard to imagine. Of course it's easy to imagine not being a "professional" musician...all that would have to happen there would be for you all to stop coming to our shows and stop buying our records, and that would be that. But that wouldn't stop me from being a musician. I have a feeling that music sort of grabbed me at a young age and won't let go no matter what I think about it. But that's just me...I think Satomi Ed and John might give you a totally different answer. John almost became a pro soccer player instead of guitar.
Greg
Oct 11, Serhat asked:
Do you have plans for visiting Turkey again?
Answer:
Hi Serhat,
Well playing in Istanbul was one of the big highlights in our band history. Part of what was so great about it was that I really didn't have any expectations. We don't get a lot of images of Turkey here in America. When I got there I was so surprised and impressed at everyone I saw. People walking down the street seemed to smile a lot. I know it was just a few days we were there but I really got a feeling that people knew how to enjoy life, and that's a real talent. Also economically I was impressed at what seemed to be a massive middle class. I saw very few very poor or very rich people, and it is wonderful just to see that this is possible. It's the same in Japan and in Scandanavia, the middle class just seems so healthy, a stark contrast to what I'm used to here.
And the show was amazing, the audience was so friendly and venue was so well-set up. I couldn't bring my bass drum on the plane, but when I got there and asked if they had any bass drum I could use, they had three different sizes to choose from!
Right now we don't have any plan to return but if we were ever invited again we would love to!
Greg
Oct 11, Serhat asked:
Do you have plans for visiting Turkey again?
Answer:
Hi, Serhat -- We would love to come sometime! We don't currently have any plans, but it would be a dream come true. We really loved spending time in Istanbul. Everyone was really nice. Thanks for writing.
John
Oct 09, Amos asked:
If you could teleport yo anywhere in the world and back only once, where would you teleport to?
Answer:
I need more details! Am I impervious to weather conditions? That would open it up to artic settings. I could go underwater if I was ghostly like Scrooge visiting Christmas past. Do I have a whole day or only a few moments? There are distant friends I'd love to see for the day. The possibilities have left me too overwhelmed to decide! - ed
Oct 09, c money asked:
will deerhoof ever collaborate with busdriver? that youtube video is awesome.
Answer:
The next Busdriver album is almost finished and has some Deerhoof-produced backing tracks. At least that’s what Regan tells me, I haven’t heard the final version of anything yet. I’m really ansty to hear it as I am a big fan. The tour we did together of course only made me more so. Anyway, we also have a future plan to record together (as opposed to sending tracks back and forth between LA and SF). That is a future that can’t come soon enough!
Oct 09, Adom asked:
Greg- what inspired you to play on such a limited kit and to cultivate such an interesting style? PS. saw you guys in portland, awesome show.
Answer:
You should see the minivan we’re trying to squeeze into. If I wanted to add a triangle to my setup it wouldn’t fit. It’s OK though, I like playing the small one. Speaking of portland, I found the little bass drum I use at Trade Up Music. Depending how you tune it, it can really sound big, especially if you don’t mufffle it with towels and things.
Oct 08, zackery asked:
what's up with the matching guitar setups? you get a sponsor or something?
Answer:
We definitely dont have a sponsorship but we are lucky enough to have a great friend! Dave Broekema (from the band Numbers) built both our matching NERD guitar heads. He's only made a few and only for his close friends. They sound amazing! Dave wanted them to be just what we wanted so he would have us try them for a while and bring them back so he could adjust them to be just right for each of us. Such a perfectionist! I wish everyone could be so lucky! A guitarist dream come true! As far as our guitars matching that's more of a coincidence! We had both been playing them for years before I joined Deerhoof. Sorry! You'll never get the chance to walk into Guitar Center and pick up the new Deerhoof model of anything! - ed
Oct 07, jacob asked:
ok -- let's be serious. Eaguru guru's guitar melody is borrowed from super mario bros. 2 when you get to those enemies at the end of the stage that throw eggs at you. right?
Answer:
Hopefully it won't inspire egg throwing! That one is just coincidence, I don't think any of us were ever good enough to make it to that level. -ed
Oct 07, Brian asked:
Haven't seen you live yet, but looking forward to it in Tampa.
What are some effects pedals used in your live setup?
Answer:
Both John and I have pretty straight forward setups. I have two distortion pedals, a pitch shifter and a delay. John uses a distortion pedal, a boost, wah and octavia. We both like to keep things as simple as possible, it's just less things that could go wrong! It's also interesting figuring out how the pedals react to each other, creating new sounds in combination. Sometimes the pedals just hitting each other with more or less signal than normal will bring out truly unique qualities. And tuners! You can't forget precious tuners! We both try and get the most out of as small a set up as we can. Who has room to carry all those pedals around! - ed
Oct 06, Robert asked:
Have John and Ed tried experimenting with different/alternative guitar tunings a la Sonic Youth, if they haven't already?
You guys sound amazing either way. I was wondering if it's ever been considered.
Amazing show at the Avalon, by the way!
Answer:
Both John and I are no stranger to experimenting with alternate tunings, using capos, different string gauges, prepared stings, everything! When I was 13 I would de-tune my guitar, play all the blues solos I learned, record it and then tune up and relearn them so I could get that feel but with all "wrong" notes to expand how I heard things. There are times when you can only get what you're reaching for by leaving standard tuning, just to make fingering easier or just achieving a sound not possible with EADGBE. For Deerhoof, we do stay in standard tuning. It makes sense! You can accomplish a lot with it, look at Derek Bailey! Plus we only have room in the minivan for one guitar each! -ed
Oct 05, Daniel Swenson asked:
If this is all relative, then why am I over here, and you're over there... and why is there a shark in all of these bathtubs?
Answer:
Two of that talking times you put away with a way of talking with time.
Oct 02, dan in detroit asked:
deer dearhoof,
if you could fly, would you rather it be like a feather bird with flappy soaring wings, like a bumble bee or hummingbird with soft whirling forewords and backwards, or like a jet plane with fiery tails for drawing on the sky?
your thoughts are vital to the core of my research and i thank you for your many contributions to science!
Answer:
I would pick the feather bird. Im sure it would feel like I was going fast as a jet, bees get a bad rep for the stinger and I dont think my heart could take being a hummingbird. Plus the singing would beat a jet engine roar anyday.
Oct 02, RSL asked:
How much do I love you? [I know you know the answer to this one.]
Answer:
T-h-i-s-----m-u-c-h
Oct 02, sam shoemaker asked:
would you rather be able to conduct light out of your fingers and toes or be able to fly for only 5 minutes every two years (if so where?)
Answer:
We're on tour right now and I have to say, I've dropped enough things in the dark van to make this answer easy. Light bulb fingers. It would also make my guitar playing look incredible! - ed
Oct 01, Will asked:
How can I see you live when you only play in obscure venues that don't allow kids??!!?
Answer:
We try and get as many all ages shows as we can, we're sorry if it didn't work out in your area. Believe me, we all know that feeling, how much it sucked to not be able to see the bands you wanted to just so other people could drink! Unfortunately our ideal venues (All Ages, NO SMOKING, clean, easy to get to, nice people working there!, etc) don't exist in every city that we make it to. Hang in there, hopefully we meet up soon!
Oct 01, Sir Patrick cordova asked:
Are you still playing El Paso?
Answer:
Affirmative!
jd
Sep 30, cats asked:
what is the ideal cat-to-person ratio to have in the studio while recording?
Answer:
That's difficult! I'm not sure if that would work in the studio unless you would want some interesting noises in the background. Maybe in the control room with the recording engineer? If that was the case I would say a ratio of 200:1 (cats-people) because I would find that endlessly entertaining to look through the window and see them waist deep in cats. In real life, I think a 2:1 ratio is the best, to provide the maximum attention possible. And they would never be lonely when you can't be there with them. - ed
Sep 30, Dan asked:
Why do people have 2 lungs instead of one big lung?
If your answer is "so we have a spare," then please postulate on why we only have one liver and (especially interesting) one heart.
Answer:
Fashion. Purely fashion. The separation creates a slimming effect, the curves add flair and elegance. One large bag right in the middle is NOT very flattering.
Sep 30, Jan asked:
I really like Green Cosmos, ever consider more sing'n in Japanese?
Answer:
Hi Jan,
I agree and that's why Satomi sings in Japanese a lot on Offend Maggie...
Greg
Sep 30, robot asked:
why is life so awesome.
Answer:
Because it just is.
Sep 29, nat asked:
what is ed's favorite food?
Answer:
Hi Nat, I should really let Ed answer this but I can't resist the temptation to razz him on his overconsumption of power bars.
Ed is vegan so that's about the only thing he can find with the protein he needs for his emboldened guitar playing and dancing.
Greg
Aug 28, fil asked:
i am very sad cos some bastard stole my deerhoof t-shirt. please tell me i can buy more deerhoof t-shirts! wearing them is my defense against the heavy london rain!
Answer:
Curse them! We will be in London soon and will have the new design(s) with us. Or you can always go to the KRS site if you just can't wait! Sorry to hear about the theft! We will keep our eyes peeled for someone wearing a DH shirt and promptly call the authorities!
Aug 25, Will asked:
How can I become more deerhoof?
Answer:
Slowly increase your Deerhoof intake, adding 5 minutes a day. Take it slowly! Soon you will see your Deerhoof increased beyond your wildest dreams! Pace yourself! Deerhoof wasn't built in a day.
Aug 21, Ryan Cheatham asked:
Hi Greg, Satomi, John, Ed....
My question centers around a track on the recent mp3 album available from your site, entitled "Jorge b.s. friend".
Was this taken from the Friend Opportunity sessions, scoring for the Dedication film, or just an independent composition for a friend as the title may suggest? It's a devastating and lovely little instrumental, and I was really curious about its origin.
Answer:
Hi Ryan, thanks for writing. That was John's song. We recorded for a radio session once. The name has a funny story... Our booking agent Erik once asked us to make a list of bands in each city that we'd like to play with. For Denton we had an idea but didn't know the name of the band. We just knew it was some friend of Jorge Behringer who is a great violist we know here. So we wrote Jorge B's friend. Later when Erik was booking us a show in Denton, he had the local promoter looking high and low for some band called "Jorge B.S. Friend", obviously without any success...
Greg
