As far as indie rock goes, Minus the Bear has stood at the forefront of bands that are making distinctive and discerning noise. From striking and serrated riffs to Jake Snider’s animated and distinguishing voice, Minus the Bear continues to evolve into the kind of band that creates songs that leave a lasting impression. Their newest release, Planet of Ice, is like a musical storybook that tells tales more by the notes played than the words written. The music and the lyrics coexist, each artistic structure speaking its own narrative. Although the guys have been busy getting ready to embark on an extra long tour across the world, bassist Cory Murchy was gracious enough to take the time to chat about the new album and other interesting tidbits.
How would you describe the progression of your music over the years?
Seven years of hard work on the road and at home.
Do you think in order for a band to “progress” they need to explore more thought- provoking subjects and sounds?
I think we always like to push the envelope for ourselves personally and create things that will keep us excited after we've played it a million times. I would hope progress comes with age and experience. We sure aren't getting any younger.
What’s the story behind the name of the new album: Planet of Ice?
It just fit. It's funny because I think the album is a lot warmer than some of our records but the "icy" thing just stuck. Maybe our practice space is the planet of ice...bleak, not somewhere you would really like to be...
Tell me a little bit about what inspired you guys to take Planet of Ice in the direction you did.
I think the process took us where it was going to go through mutual understanding and cooperation between five men in a small smoke-filled room. Our inspiration might be to get out of the practice room.
Your upcoming tour schedule is pretty exhaustive. Did you guys do anything differently to prepare for this time from past tours?
We hired a tech guy for the first time. He's going to make sure everything is totally tour 2.0...
The vibe of the album seems like it will translate stunningly live. Have you played any live gigs yet with the new album? How’d that go?
So far so good. There are some real rockers on the new album and it's been good fun to let the riffage loose.
Who are some of the bands you all really enjoyed touring with and why?
We play well with others, so it's hard to pick...if you had only asked who we didn't get along with...
How’s the whole process of making a music video for you guys? (i.e. Do you guys decide which songs you want to make a video for? Do you get any input in terms of the basic feel and look? Did you have fun with those animal sponge pill things in the “Pachuca Sunrise” video?)
We decide what song we want the video for and then kind of leave it up to the director’s vision. If we have a strong opinion on something we make sure it is voiced. We had as much fun as you did with the sponge pill things. As much fun as you can have with a sponge I guess.
I have heard that some of you guys have a fondness for rap and pop culture icons of the MTV persuasion. Anyone you guys would like to collaborate with on songs or maybe even an album?
Dr. Dre.
I know a lot of you guys played in other bands and had other side projects; are any of you still doing side stuff? What was the turning point for you guys to focus mainly on MTB’s future?
All the other bands fell apart so the future was decided for us.
What would be the band’s ideal gig?
Live audiences are the best. Playing to the funeral home is no fun. Move around and let us know you are having fun. Having fun is ideal
-- Brigitte B. Zabak
Photo: April Brimer
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Planet of Ice is available now through Suicide Squeeze Records.
http://www.minusthebear.com
http://www.myspace.com/minusthebear
