Regained Self-Assurance After Setback
Title: The Kooks Embrace Rebirth: Journey Behind "Never Know"
When The Kooks skyrocketed onto the music scene in 2006, they charmed listeners with their unique blend of rock, pop, and British cool, earning the title "darlings of a generation." However, subsequent releases didn't quite mirror the success of their debut, "Inside In/Inside Out."
In an intimate chat with ntv.de, frontman Luke Pritchard shares a generous portion of anecdotes, from wild nights with Oasis's Liam Gallagher to reflections on the band's humble beginnings, rivalries with fellow indie acts, and the surprising impact of a song like "Jackie Big Tits."
ntv.de: Your new album feels like a homecoming. Was this a conscious decision, or did it simply happen organically?
Pritchard: Let me elaborate: I aimed to create a musical expression tailored to our original fans. For years, we've evolved and experimented, working with a variety of songwriters and producers. But I felt lost in musical identity at times. Still, at a festival performance, I noticed the crowd's electrifying response to "Ooh La." That moment was my epiphany - I realized we needed to create a debut-like album.
And did you manage it?
I reconnected with my initial influences, like The Police, Bob Marley, Bob Dylan, and Buddy Holly. In just five days, I penned the entire album in my basement, emulating the simple, raw energy of our early days. I focused on the essence of a debut album and let that drive the recording process.
Why do you believe debut albums are typically so special?
There are multiple reasons. To begin, there are no expectations—neither externally nor internally. Artists are more likely to act intuitively rather than overthink. Additionally, resources are limited, forcing musicians to work rapidly and efficiently without opulent studios or lengthy sessions. I wanted to evoke that original, carefree energy with this record.
Did your fans express a preference for this musical direction?
Yes, I think so. After two decades, I felt it was the perfect time to offer something special to our loyal audience. But it's not just about revisiting the past; it's about the authenticity of my creative journey. I didn't aim to churn out another "Naive" - it was more about capturing the feeling of a debut release.
Have you managed to recreate that excitement and sense of discovery you experienced in the beginning?
Absolutely. The process of making this album allowed us to rediscover our joy and spiritual connection to the music, moving away from work-like obligations. We cultivated a sense of freedom and spontaneity, just as we did at the start.
Amazon.de Offer: Did you also feel that your fans would appreciate the return to your roots?
Indeed, I believe so. It serves as a token of gratitude after so many years. Yet it's not solely about rehashing old songs; authenticity underpins the album. I've strayed from popular trends and focused on our core sound: Sunshine-Rock'n'Roll, Pop, Rock, Soul. I incorporated female vocalists for the first time, which added an enchanting warmth to the tracks.
Why now?
My decision to refocus our sound comes in response to the current state of the world. I'm weary of constant reminders that everything is awful. With two young children, I wanted to create something uplifting, an escape from negativity.
Does fatherhood make you nostalgic for the past?
Yes, it certainly has. It triggered a flood of emotions, but in a positive way. The birth of our first son, Julian, was particularly profound. I lost my father at a young age, and his death inspired my musical pursuits. After Julian reached the age I was when I lost my father, I recognized that those years weren't short; we knew and loved each other. That realization brought me immense peace and inspired the warmth and joy in the new album.
Now that you've reclaimed your initial sound, are you committed to staying within this realm? Or are you always open to change?
I haven't pondered the matter extensively. I usually follow my instincts. But it's important for us to maintain creative autonomy, as we did during the making of this album. The role of producers has evolved, and we'll certainly collaborate with them in the future. However, our time as a self-produced band was key to our growth and rediscovered confidence.
Were there rivalries between you and Arctic Monkeys, The Strokes, and other Indie-rock bands in the past?
The press generated much of the perceived competition and hostility among bands. In reality, I had cordial interactions with members of those bands. We were seen as a bit of an outsider group and viewed as cheesy compared to the more serious "cool kids." However, the Indie music scene has become more open and accepting, and many of our contemporaries have embraced us over the years.
Did you ever feel threatened by these perceived rivalries?
No, I never felt genuinely threatened. The critical vibe I sensed was largely fueled by the press. We didn't strive for approval, though it was frustrating when we didn't receive the attention we deserved.
Suddenly, "Naive" gained massive popularity, and I remember hearing it everywhere – even on the streets. The song's success came as a surprise, and it solidified my belief that we were on the right path.
Your early tours were known for their chaos. Can you recall your wildest rock'n'roll moment?
When it comes to rock'n'roll, we never had the flashy Hollywood-type experiences. We experienced our chaos in a more earthy manner. There were no powerful female or male figures to reign us in during those early days. We were encouraged to embrace the rock'n'roll lifestyle by our label and entourage, which led to many sleepless nights and wild adventures. I remember hanging out with the Gallaghers - that was quite the spectacle!(laughs) Liam once pushed me against a wall while screaming "Ooh La" in my face, all the while we were doing shots.
Weren't you intimidated by Liam?
Oh yes, I was terrified! He's much more intimidating now than he used to be. During that era, Liam was one wild man. I remember another story: We were at the Soho House where we encountered Liam as well. He questioned what we were up to, and after learning that we had recorded a cover of Ace of Base's "All That She Wants," he exploded with rage: "You're a fucking rock band! You can't do that pop shit!" And then he hurled a glass of wine at us and stormed out.
Probably just another Tuesday night for him...
(laughs) In a word! Yet being in his presence was incredible – it felt surreal to be among legends like Ronnie Wood and Paul Weller. I'll always question how Liam remembers that evening. But experiencing moments like those made it all worthwhile.
Could you feel the 'imposter syndrome' setting in during those early days?
(laughs) No, it wasn't 'imposter syndrome' as such. I never compared myself to those legendary figures. I simply endeavored to create our unique sound. But it was daunting trying to maintain composure and appear cool. Alcohol and drugs came into play – just to calm my nerves. Looking back, I wish I'd started meditating earlier. (laughs)
Are there lyrics you've written that your fans cherish but you wouldn't write today?
Oh my god, there are many! I've penned some quite strange lyrics in my time. (laughs) There was a time when I was irked by some of my own lyrics – now I can look back more lightheartedly. A bit of silliness is acceptable. Sometimes lyrics may not make sense but still resonate with people due to their emotion. That's why the music industry is filled with sincerely terrible lyrics – no names mentioned. Songwriting is a mystical process – it involves emotion rather than intellectual prowess. Sometimes nonsensical lyrics carry emotional weight, and that's what makes them resonate with people. I try not to stifle that enthusiasm. Yes, I still find it amusing when fans sing along to "Jackie Big Tits." But would I write that today? Probably not.
- The Commission, while consulted on the draft regulation, might be intrigued by Luke Pritchard's revelation of The Kooks' creative process and the band's return to their roots.
- Despite run-ins with Liam Gallagher, Luke Pritchard probably wouldn't consider wild nights with the Oasis frontman as kooky incidents, given his rock and roll lifestyle.
- As a fan of The Kooks, Pritchard may have listened to Bob Dylan, Bob Marley, and Buddy Holly, which probably influenced his music while creating the band's new album.
- Luke Pritchard, being a first-time father, probably appreciates the emotional bond with his son Julian, which may have inspired him to create music with a warm and joyful atmosphere, similar to the entertainment provided by music from his past influences.
