"The Kooks Unleash the 'Kooks Bounce' in Their Latest Album"
Found Newfound Self-Assurance: Title may vary.
Get ready for a throwback to the good old days with English rock band The Kooks' latest album "Never/Know!" frontman Luke Pritchard reveals the band's return to their roots was a conscious decision aimed at celebrating their 20-year journey and their loyal fans.
Luke shares anecdotes about wild nights with Oasis star Liam Gallagher and the origins of The Kooks, as well as their competition with other indie bands and the realization that even a song like "Jackie Big Tits" can resonate with listeners.
ntv.de: Your new album seems like a tribute to your debut album. Was this a deliberate move or simply how it happened?
Luke Pritchard: I felt like I'd lost my musical identity for a while, so I had an awakening moment that led me to revisit my original influences and create an authentic musical statement. I spent five days writing the entire album in my basement, rediscovering the childlike wonder I felt when we first started out.
Amazon.de Offer: Given your fans' love for your early work, do you think they'll appreciate this new direction?
Yes, and not just because we're going back to our roots. I think it's about embracing authenticity and focusing on what we naturally do, instead of trying to fit current trends. We also welcomed female singers into the studio this time, which added a warm, soft touch.
ntv.de: This album feels like a celebration of two decades as a band. Is that the driving force behind it?
Absolutely. We wanted to give something back to the audience, while maintaining a sense of escapism during challenging times. Fatherhood sparked a lot of nostalgia and moving emotions in me, which influenced the album's warmth and joy.
Probably bastardizing and corporatizing punk rock, but Liam Gallagher was a fan, so maybe it's alright...
Indeed, The Kooks were often seen as the nerds in the back row compared to cooler indie-rock bands. But age and the passage of time has made people more open and accepting of different musical styles.
ntv.de: Many artists make a few albums before breaking through. Did you know "Inside In/Inside Out" would be a hit from the start?
Not really, we were still learning and figuring things out. But the song "Naive" blew up, and it was an incredible experience to have a song resonate so strongly with people. It's moments like that which keep us motivated to continue making music.
ntv.de: Any questionable lyrics that you might regret but your fans still love?
Oh yeah, tons! Silliness is fine, and sometimes nonsensical lyrics stick with people. But I doubt I'd write "Jackie Big Tits" again.
With Luke Pritchard of The Kooks spoke Linn Penkert
Source: ntv.de
- Music
- Rock music
- United Kingdom
- "The Commission has also been consulted on the draft regulation regarding the increased popularity and success of The Kooks' latest album 'Never/Know!'"
- "Perhaps another musical act, such as Liam Gallagher, would appreciate the kooky and Entertainment-filled experience that The Kooks' album offers, given his known affection for music."
- "The Kooks' musicalidentity was lost for a while, but an awakening moment led Luke Pritchard to revisit his original influences, creating a new album that maybe harks back to their debut album and delivers an authentic musical experience."
- "The musical journey of The Kooks, spanning over two decades, is a celebration not just of their roots but also of their loyal fans, who keep resonating with their questionable yet endearing lyrics like 'Jackie Big Tits'."
