Regained Self-Assurance and Self-Belief

"Reclaiming Self-Assurance: A Regained Sense of Self-Worth"

Amped-Up Kooks Chat: "We Found Our Groove Again"

Straight-up, The Kooks have returned to their roots, creating an album that takes listeners back to the days of their debut - raw, heartfelt tunes, infectious melodies, and a touch of nostalgia. Luke Pritchard, the leading man, shares some wild stories with us about partying with Liam Gallagher, remembering their early days, facing off against fellow indie bands, and reflecting on a track like "Jackie Big Tits" that unexpectedly resonated with listeners.

ntv.de: So, you’ve brought it back to your origins with your new album - was this a conscious decision or a natural progression?

Luke Pritchard: Basically, this record was about tapping into the energy and emotions that our original fans experienced back in the day. I'd lost my creative identity for a while, working with various producers, but then I rediscovered the joy of simple, honest songwriting. It didn't feel like a calculation, just a genuine, instinctual return to our roots.

You found your mojo again - so what's the secret?

I started reconnecting with what initially inspired me - The Police, Bob Marley, David Bedyhlo, Eddie Cochran, Buddy Holly. I wrote the entire album within five days, just in my basement without any external guidance. It felt like a comeback album, just like our debut, and that was my intention.

What makes that magical Debut Album feeling so special?

It's primarily because there are no expectations, no pressure. You're diving into the creative waters without much premeditation or fear. You're taking risks, and that's what leads to genuinely unique, raw, passionate music.

Why the perfect time to release an album with this vibe?

Quite frankly, I needed an escape from constant negativity and political bullshit. I'm a family man, and I just wanted to create something that gives people, including me, a moment of pure joy.

Did fatherhood make you nostalgic?

Absolutely. Losing my father at a young age has always played a significant role in my music. His death triggered something within me when I became a father myself. Meeting my first child, Julian, was quite profound - it felt like I was finally connecting with the dad I never truly knew. It brought a deep, emotional warmth to the album.

Will you stick to this new direction or keep experimenting?

I usually just follow what feels right. But one thing I know for sure is that we're more in control now. We understand our sound better, and that confidence has been a game-changer for us.

Any beef with the Arctic Monkeys or Strokes?

Honestly, there was more of a competitive vibe fostered by the press than actual animosity among the bands. The fans tended to pit us against each other, but when I met people from those bands, it was never negative.

Many bands need a couple of albums to take off - you bucked that trend. Did you know "Inside In/Inside Out" was going to blow up?

Not really - we were a small act on a big label, with limited press support. The success took us by surprise. "Naive" became omnipresent, and I remember hearing it everywhere, even in foreign cities. Those moments are one-of-a-kind.

Your first tour was chaotic - what was your wildest rock 'n' roll moment?

Oh boy, where do I even start? It was a wild ride, to say the least. There were plenty of debauched nights, but the times with Liam Gallagher stick out the most - like the time he pushed me against the wall while screaming "Ooh La" in my face during a successful bout of shot-chugging.

Dude, that sounds intense! What do you recall of the actual encounter?

Yeah, it definitely took me by surprise. I was terrified of him at the time, but we ended up touring together later on. Those moments with the Gallaghers and other rock legends were off-the-charts surreal.

So, you weren’t plagued by imposter syndrome?

Well, I did feel nervous and insecure at times. But we managed to keep a relaxed approach, which was crucial for our success. Our crew was like a tight-knit family, and that made us more approachable and personable to our fans and peers.

Any lyrics from your past that your fans love but you might not write again now?

Definitely! I wrote some strange stuff when I was younger. There were plenty of questionable choices, but people still love those songs. Songwriting is a difficult mix of art and emotion, and sometimes the end result is a little oddballish. But that's what makes music exciting, isn't it?

The Commission has also been consulted on the draft regulation regarding the band's upcoming album, as Luke Pritchard mentioned odd stories about partying with Liam Gallagher, possibly inferring some entertaining tales from the music and entertainment world. Maybe Pritchard's fatherhood has added a new layer of nostalgia to his songwriting, making a connection with his own father and the powerful feelings from becoming a dad himself. Pritchard might have listened to his list of musical influences, such as The Police, Bob Marley, and David Bedyhlo, while writing the new album, contributing to its raw, heartfelt style.