by iliana calderon
photo by eric t. white
Eighty Ninety recently released their new self-titled album on December 15th. They talk about how they wanted this album to be more raw and organic sound with inspirations from the 60s and 90s. They also mention how this record holds a lot of meaning in the changes they’ve been through. Eighty Ninety also has plans to another record for the summer.
What inspired you guys to write and call this your self-titled album?
Eighty Ninety: “We self-titled this record not because it is a definitive statement on the identity of the band, but because it really is a statement on what the band is at this moment. Ironically, it's a bit of a departure for us sonically.”
What was the creative process like while working on this album?
Eighty Ninety: “We found ourselves drawn to a rawer, more organic sound, and as a result, much of the record is full performances — Harper kept entire takes on the lead guitar for a handful of songs, Abner drummed the full performance of ‘Don't Know It Yet.’ In that way it became about capturing the moment, the energy, and not a perfect performance or take.”
Are there any inspirations that you had while working on this album?
Eighty Ninety: “We were listening to a lot of records made before digital took over — lots of 60s, 90s. We were chasing a vibe, not perfection.”
What are some of the deeper meanings to this album?
Eighty Ninety: “A lot of this record is about making sense of our internal life and coming to terms with the choices you've made and how they might shape your life in ways you meant and also that you never imagined.”
What’s one song from your self-titled album that sticks out to you guys the most?
Eighty Ninety: “We both love ‘Don't Know It Yet.’ We just went full-on with every element and it was so much fun. It seems to be a sleeper favorite as well, which is fun. And it will be so great to play live.”
How do you guys feel about how far you’ve come between 2016 to now?
Eighty Ninety: “From the beginning our goal has been to create a life with music at the center. We're really happy with where we are. We could have never guessed, ever, when we were working on ‘Three Thirty’ in between jobs and late at night, that it would have led here.”
Is there anything else you would like to share that you have coming up?Are there any other plans for this year?
Eighty Ninety: “We're already deep into writing the next record. It feels like there's still a lot to make. Can't wait to show you.”