‘New Album’ is where a band or artist answers some questions about their latest release. Up next is Steph Casey, who has just released new album ‘The Seats In My Car’.
When/where was the new album recorded?
The Surgery, Wellington, February 2019.
Who produced/engineered the album? How did the tracks come together in the studio, or at home?
Producers: Steph Casey & Alan Galloway. Engineer: Lee Prebble.
How did the songwriting happen? Are there any overall themes within the songs/album?
Over a five year period, as a response to different experiences. There are two songs about murder (one an old-timey, revivalist ballad, the other a slightly tongue-in-cheek chaotic pop/rock number). A few songs about past/long-distance/rekindled relationships, a song about a performer, and an instrumental track.
Were you going for a different sound/approach on this album?
Yes the album is more raw and “warts n’ all” regarding the vocals, than my debut album. The addition of Alan Galloway’s gritty distorted guitars gives it an edgier feel. There are some dark, spooky sounds in there too. I’ve been incredibly lucky to have had the three core members of Let’s Planet (Caroline Easther, Alan Galloway and Murray Costello) playing with me as the band on this album. Amazing musicians and lovely people.
Was there any specific gear you used to capture that?
Alan crouching next to his guitar amp to get ringing feedback…Murray playing long, eerie notes on his bass with a bow…
Is there a particular single/track that you feel captures the essence of the album?
Old Love.
Is there a physical copy available? If not which digital platforms is it available on?
Yes. On Bandcamp, on release day 26/7.
Are you working on a video/videos for any of the songs? Are you doing any gigs or promotion for its release?
Video for first single ‘At a Bar Downtown’ was released 28/6. Release show 26/7 at St Peters Hall Paekakariki heads up a five date NZ tour. Here is the info on promotion, shows, interviews…
Fri 5 JULY I was interviewed by Next Magazine on the songwriting group that I hold once a month, the album, and upcoming tour, for their next issue.
13 JULY – THE INTERNATIONAL AMERICANA MUSIC SHOW – My song “Hold On” was played on this weekly radio show that is broadcast on 33 US radio stations and on public radio stations throughout the world.
18 JULY I flew to Auckland for an interview on TV3’s The Cafe breakfast show. They will be playing some of the new album and music video. The same day I did a live performance and interview on The 13th Floor music show with Marty Duda.
26 JULY – THE ALBUM LAUNCH AT ST PETERS HALL, PAEKAKARIK, with full band.
9 AUGUST – NZ LIVE SHOW ON RNZ WITH JESSE MULLIGAN. Steph and full five-piece band will be performing five or so songs from the new album and chatting with Jesse Mulligan, 2.30pm.
16 AUGUST – RADIO ACTIVE LIVE – Steph and full five-piece band. Interview and songs. 3.30pm on ACTIVE 89FM
17 AUGUST – WHANGANUI SHOW, LUCKY BAR + KITCHEN Looking forward to entertaining the fine folks of Whanganui.
24 AUGUST – WELLINGTON SHOW. THE THIRD EYE (with full band). Can’t wait to rock The Third Eye!
06 DECEMBER – PICTON SHOW, LE CAFE
07 DECEMBER – MUSSEL INN SHOW, TAKAKA
Tickets on Eventfinda, More info at my Website or Facebook page.
I’m also heading to the USA in September with my guitar and will be playing some shows over there.