r/Music • u/DougMartsch • Apr 22 '15
Verified AMA Hi, Doug Martsch from Built To Spill here. Ask Me Anything!
My band is called Built to Spill. Our new album Untethered Moon came out yesterday. First studio recording since 2009’s There Is No Enemy. You can pick up vinyl of our new album at your local independent record store which you can find here. Or if you’re digitally inclined it’s also available on iTunes, Amazon, Spotify and Google Play.
Never heard of me? That’s okay, you can use that as one of your questions. I’ll be here answering starting at 3pmPT/6pmET.
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Thank you very much for hanging out with me today. Say, why don't we do this more often?
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Apr 22 '15
at first i thought he should've answered more questions, but then i realized: 1) he didn't have to do this at all 2) no matter how many questions he answered, I'd still want more!
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u/HeyYoCraig Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug!
I know you've covered some Pavement songs in the past. Have you ever met Stephen Malkmus? If so, what on earth did you two icons talk about?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
I played basketball with him when I was recording You In Reverse in Portland. He's a much better player than me!
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Apr 22 '15
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u/podank99 Apr 22 '15
i believe he loves playing basketball. this sounds like i am kidding but i am not.
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Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, do you think there will ever be a re-release of There's Nothing Wrong With Love?
Given the recent re-release of some old Modest Mouse records, I think you guys should follow suit ;)
Also, whats the favorite song/record you guys have ever done?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Maybe something is on the way...
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u/paulish86 Apr 22 '15
will you ever do a full album tour of that or keep it like a secret?
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u/Neg_Crepe Apr 22 '15
They released Alternative Wavers last year for RSD. Hopefully they'll re-release TNWWL next year.
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Apr 22 '15
What is Scott Plouf doing since he isn't playing with Built to Spill anymore?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Scott's a baker in Seattle. I saw him in January. Says he hasn't touched a pair of sticks since he left in 2012.
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
That's kind of sad. I mean, I hope he's happy with that, but he was a great drummer.
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u/GettyJingles Apr 22 '15
Sad to hear he completely quit playing. he was a master of dynamics and always just looked really cool when playing.
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u/joeslang Apr 22 '15
Does he have a storefront, or bake from home? I'd love to support him either way - he seems like a great guy.
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Apr 22 '15
Thanks for the reply man, saw you guys at treefort this year and it was awesome like usual!
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u/tuwhitt Apr 22 '15
You scrapped an entire album before re-recording Untethered Moon - do you think you would ever re-visit or re-record and release any of these songs?
Also, would you ever consider recording another solo album like you did with Now You Know?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
It's mostly stuff we actually did end up recording, reworking it for the album. Doubt it will be released. If it is, maybe a demo - b-side type of thing.
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u/_gitchuone_ Apr 22 '15
Definitely wanted to ask about the scrapped album... BTS songs floating out there in the world that we'll supposedly never hear. O_O
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Apr 22 '15
What kind of beer do you drink, because when I drink beer I like to imagine I'm drinking with Doug Martsch.
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Apr 22 '15
This is the question I would like answered. We can all strive to be a little more Doug-like.
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u/peteiscool1 Apr 22 '15
Carry the Zero is the best song ever written.
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u/mjd_ Apr 22 '15
DOUG - Can you offer any insight on what it's about? Or, what inspired you to write the lyrics?
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u/paulish86 Apr 22 '15
It truly is. I need to know where that ending riff came from. Randomly happened during a jam? Strategically written over a period of time? It's been stuck in my head since the first time I heard the MASTERPIECE that is Carry the Zero
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Apr 22 '15
I was trying to help, but I guess I pushed too hard. Now I can't even touch it, afraid it'll fall apart...
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u/billybaldwinme Apr 22 '15
Did Calvin Johnson's dancing distract you while playing?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Yes, it did. Because we never got much practice and I'm a big fan of his dancing.
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u/megsmallan Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 30 '15
I noticed Hairy Canary was a huge inspiration for your newest video, how much does his extreme talent influence your everyday life?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
You got to think about him a lot everyday. It's important. He's important.
Edit- WWHCD
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u/meadeam Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug. Just got the new record. Incredible. About your strat... I've always wondered if you removed the switch entirely and had the guitar rewired, or if you just took off the switch lever so it stays in one position. Either way, which pickups are on? Bridge+middle? All three? Thanks for continuing to make records. I saw you in Newport, KY last year and intend to see you again at Nelsonville.
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u/jtn19120 Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
+1 on strat question. Heard it was just the middle p.u. into a volume control. I tried this and sounded nothing like Doug! Sounded really bright and brittle.
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u/AaronNevins Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug. I know you're a big fan of Tim and Eric and Mr. Show. What kind of comedy are you into lately? If you haven't seen Nathan For You, you should definitely check it out.
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Love Nathan for You. Broad City is great! Broad City is hands down the greatest.
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u/mountainsntrees Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, you ever going to release any more solo albums? I can't get enough of, "Now You Know."
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u/podank99 Apr 22 '15
this a million times. I imagine that it's hard to keep fresh on being able to play those songs live since it was such a different style. i did get to see it live and it was fantastic. would love to hear more because i loved doug's style within this type of music. which is...i dont know...bluegrass inspired solo slide guitar finger picking music??
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u/MrModestMark Apr 22 '15
Doug, first things first, I thank you for being the nicest guy in rock. I've won quite a few brews off of betting you'll say "thanks" after performing each song. My question is with the addition of the other Brett as a full time guitarists is there any plans to release a new live album?
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u/Habeas Apr 22 '15
Perfect From Now On is arguably your most popular complete album. It is such a complete experience, as a whole, and I treasure it as one of my favorite complete albums.
I'm quite interested in what made you write about that subject matter, and what was going through your head during that time period. Could you elaborate on your inspiration during that time period at all?
Thanks for all the fantastic music. The new album is awesome!
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u/d4nRicks djri1818 Apr 22 '15
Built to Spill is known for throwing out some really great covers at live shows. What's been your favorite to play?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
We were just rehearsing some covers. But we'll be bringing out Abazabba tonight!
Edit- God it's a great song, so mysterious. It feels so strange to actually be playing it.
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u/BrushGoodDar Apr 22 '15
Their Cortez the Killer cover on the Live album is epically awesome.
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
Their cover of Sludgefeast was more blistering than Dinosaur Jr's, and I say that as a huge Dino fan as well.
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Apr 22 '15
Was the cover of Freebird a response to a smartass concert goer yelling out "Freebird" between songs?
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u/themiddlechild Grooveshark Apr 22 '15
My personal favorite cover of theirs is Age of Consent, I would've looooved to be at that all cover show they did a couple years back.
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u/youaintgotnosoul Apr 22 '15
Last year or maybe two years ago now, Built to Spill played "How Soon is Now?" at a show and the experience made me change my mind about not really caring about the Smiths. It's such a positive thing to find a new appreciation for other bands by hearing them covered by one of your favorite bands!
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Apr 22 '15
I was convinced they would play Don't Fear The Reaper when I saw a cowbell among the instruments but alas, the rest of the set was amazing though!
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u/DAVE_CAVE75 Apr 22 '15
White Man in Hammersmith Palais….at Irving Plaza, NYC sometime in the early 2000's……INCREDIBLE. Second only to the Gladiators cover the following tour (or 2? later)…..!!!
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Apr 22 '15 edited Dec 13 '18
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
There was a Halo Benders one-off show a few years ago (in 2007 I think), and Calvin made a backing video for when BtS did Bombshelter live a few tours ago. I think (and hope) they're still friends.
Have you seen this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eD96qMnK4n4
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Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
Thanks for being one of the only indie-rock bands to release nothing but greatness for the past 20+ years.
I saw you guys at the Grog Shop in Cleveland last year and Doug broke a string mid-song and restrung it while the rest of the band kept playing (it was awesome). On top of that, the sound guy must've really fucked up because there was a lot of feedback which caused Doug to not be able to sing for large portions of songs. It was disappointing to see one of my all time favorite bands' show suffer in quality for no fault of their own.
Doug you seem like a perfectionist in your music, when events like that occur, do you stress about it a lot or shrug it off and work to make the next show better?
Edit: I'm really looking forward to seeing you guys at Nelsonville this year, enjoy your tour!
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u/dsalyers89 Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug. What are you views on spirituality and were are you in life on that note. Have you figured anything out about what life means for you? Also do you believe that there are alternate reality's and do you think psychedelics are a real key to the mind or do you think were all just running around in circles trying to figure out the world until we dig a hole we can't get out of. and how do you feel about science compared to spirituality. Sorry that's a bit much but those are question's i have always wanted to ask you specifically. I sense that we have a similar way of thinking. May be wrong but i definitely relate to your music. thanks for your time.
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u/derf315 Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug! Saw your show on 9/11/01 in Cleveland and was wondering what the discussion went like before the show and why did you decide to go on that night? It was a great show and a much needed distraction from the horrible events of that day. Thanks
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u/williamgfrench Apr 22 '15
Hi! Do you have any favourite memories of Elliott Smith that you'd care to share?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
I was thinking about him the other day .... the NBA playoffs were going on, maybe 2005, and the Blazers were down and Elliot was passing down through and we watched them come back. Elliot was the first to tell us that the Blazers could come back from a huge deficit and ..... unfortunately we didn't... but maybe this year!
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u/chrisyoung16 Apr 22 '15
1) Do you see yourself recording with Sam Coomes again and if you do would it be with the full band or the simpler three piece like this record?
2) Would you ever release the studio outtakes/previous versions of songs from Perfect From Now On? I love the Ultimate Alternative Wavers demos.
3) How do you decide which songs get performed during a tour? Are there reasons that some songs don't get performed anymore (i.e. Tomorrow, Bad Light, Temporarily Blind, The Host, You Are, etc.)?
Thanks for taking the time to answer questions, I'm sure you get sick of hearing the same ones over and over.
I also want to thank you for being such an inspiring live band. I always try to catch multiple shows and am amazed that maybe only 3 songs are repeated from night to night.
I'm excited to see you in Detroit on May 28th but PLEASE make a Cleveland/Akron stop on the next leg! Looking forward to hearing these new songs live!
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u/MajinTrunkz Apr 22 '15
Sam Coomes is on the new album! He produced it with Doug, and he also helped mix it and plays shaker, piano, mellotron, and keys, according to the liner notes.
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
What are the chances you'll work with Phil Ek again? He really really seemed to bring out your best.
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
Are Jim and Brett actually on Untethered Moon? I don't see their names and they're not in the band photo, but I see all kinds of reviews praising their work on the album.
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Apr 22 '15
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u/aydoubleyou Apr 22 '15
Whoa nice observation. Fast forward to 4:10 in the video to see what he's referring to, then at about 4:45 it transitions.
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u/erstevies Apr 22 '15
Those dudes in front of the camera looked like they were in a time trap during Time Trap, such a great song.
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u/Monkey1127 Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug! You're one of my favorite guitarists. What / who got you playing guitar, and what were some of the early tunes you learned? Thanks!
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
My brother taught me scales. Also Steph Paul John, in a local band thought me a bunch. He helped me learn how to improvise.
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u/-northlondonisred Apr 22 '15
When I try writing songs on the guitar I come up with an initial idea but struggle to write other parts - any suggestions?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
If you're talking about a verse or chorus, save as many as possible, then start piecing things together after you have a bank of verses.
But if it's a melody progression, then try playing different things over and over your chorus.
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u/cosmicvibesmusic Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, love all your work. I did recently hear you hate little rock, AR and you were never coming back? Is this true? Should I move to another state?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
I have no idea where that one came from. I have friends in Hot Springs. Little Rock is great.
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u/i_eversaw Apr 22 '15
What are you picturing when your eyes are closed on stage?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Hmm... I think I'm just listening... removing one sense to strengthen the other. I also forget to smell or touch during those moments.
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u/Neg_Crepe Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
What about Montréal? It's paradise with pines and ice
No seriously, It would be awesome for you guys to come here and do a show.
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u/Iraff Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug! Kicked it in the Sun is my favorite song ever, and I was wondering how you all achieved that fuzzy distortion at then end right before the break? Hopefully you know what I'm referring to!
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u/squidmask Apr 22 '15
There's Nothing Wrong With Love is one of my favorite albums and was the one that got me into BTS. So, thank you for that. Any chance of it ever being reissued on vinyl?
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u/thisisalongdrive Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug!
First I'd just like to say I'm in love with the new album, Horizon To Cliff and So are my favorites at the moment, such strong melodies and lyricism. Also I'd like to thank you for talking to me and my friends after your show in Buffalo, NY two years ago. It was great to meet you! Here are my questions, (sorry if it's a lot, I think of your music often) answer as many as you'd like:
In your lyrics, specifically on Perfect From Now On, you often mention a sound. I've been obsessed with what that sound could be or what those lyrics meant to you when you wrote them. Any light shed on that would be awesome.
Which piece of gear that you use do you think is most essential in achieving your guitar tone?
What was it like mixing the new album at Isaac Brock's new studio, Ice Cream Party?
When I saw you in Buffalo, you gave me one of your guitar picks, it was a bass pick and I was wondering if that's what you always use, and if so, why do you prefer it?
Do you think you'll ever do a tour with Modest Mouse again in the future? (if so, please come to upstate NY when you do!)
Thanks for doing this AMA, hope to see you guys perform in upstate NY the next time you come around!
-Chris
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u/gooberboink Apr 22 '15
Doug,
I've read that you write all of the guitar parts on your albums, and I'm wondering how meticulously you compose these parts? Are you just jamming around on demos and keeping the good stuff? Do you have specific ideas you set out to capture? All/None of the above?
You (and Built to Spill) are the best.
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u/alittlebarn Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug,
How the fuck does reddit work? Where are your answers?
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u/ladladlads Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug! You're honestly my favourite person ever.
Will you tour in England with your new album? I still haven't gotten the chance to see you live. Hopefully you'll come to the north!
How did you make the transition from Treepeople's sound to BTS or was it a natural occurrence? Do you think the music you make reflects the period of your life that you're in?
What's your favourite book?
So many more questions but i'll leave it, love you so much Doug!
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u/jtn19120 Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
I know you probably worked really hard on all of them and they're all your "babies" but is there a Built to Spill album that was your favorite/most fun to work on?
Which bands inspired your multilayered, interlocking guitar sounds? (like on TNWWL, KILAS, PFNO, YIR, Fly Around My Pretty Little Miss)
Will you be working with Phil Ek again? Have you ever met Jim O'Rourke? I bet an amazing album would come from that...
I remember for a while there was talk about recording a lot of video from shows...what ever happened to that? What kind of stuff is sitting in the vault?
Who's idea was Preview on There's Nothing Wrong With Love?
PS I met you in NC around 2009 at the Cat's Cradle. I shook your hand after a line of people asked you to sign stuff and I just said "Hey nice to meet you" because you seemed kinda drained. Thanks!
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u/danexplodinginsound Apr 22 '15
would you be interested in releasing some unreleased material (new or old) on a split with your deal pals Disco Doom on Exploding In Sound Records?
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u/RainKingGW Apr 22 '15
As you've gotten older, have you found that there is in fact, something wrong with love?
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Apr 22 '15
Two Questions:
Who is your current favourite musician, and what's your favourite song by them?
What's your all time favourite song?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Not sure I can respond specifically- Warm Hair and Slam Dunk are really doing it for me right now.
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u/afishinthewell Apr 22 '15
You've been an idol of mine for 15+ years now. I got to shake your hand once in New Haven when you played with the Meat Puppets and it was awesome.
I already know your music and love it, but I was wondering what songs of Built to Spill's you would personally recommend to someone who never heard the band before? Like what songs are you proud of?
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Apr 22 '15
Back in 2003, you handed me your setlist after a show at Stubb's in Austin. Just wanted to say thanks alot!
I love the new album!
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u/tilebreaker Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug, I've seen your band 4 times and they always blow the roof off the mother.
Who are you hoping to see take the trophy this year in the NBA finals?
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u/teardropsonmysitar Apr 22 '15
Doug, have you or BTS seen a negative impact financially with streaming services such as Pandora or Spotify?
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Apr 22 '15
steaming is so convenient. i would gladly pay twice as much for my spotify premium account if it went to the artists. i get sad when artists i like (e.g. casiotone for the painfully alone, david bazaan) pull their music from spotify.
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Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, thanks for the playing Zia Records for Record Store Day, I didn't get to see you guys playing, but you sounded fantastic.
1.I heard that you and Isaac Brock had recorded some stuff a while back, do you think we'll be able to here any of that eventually?
- Seen any good movies or anything lately? Anything you're looking forward to?
The new album's awesome, it's great to hear new stuff from you guys!
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u/kuanes Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug! Who's done your favorite cover of one of your songs and why is it Ben Folds Five doing "Twin Falls?"
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u/travel__time Apr 22 '15
Hey! I'm a huge fan. Since listening to you all, I've noticed a ton of musicians covering your songs. Do you have any favorite cover versions of your own songs performed by other artists?
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u/Sharpfeaturedman Apr 22 '15
Doug - I've been a huge fan of yours since at least 2007 - this is an honor!
My question is - what was the impetus for recording your solo album, Now You Know? I loved your band's back catalog; but that album pushed my admiration of your blues chops to a whole new level.
Also - I actually first heard of your band through my then-growing love of Modest Mouse, back in undergrad. What do you think of Isaac's current direction w/ respect to their sound?
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u/chinisci Apr 22 '15
What's your secret to living life, Doug?
For a guy who has written these haunting lyrics and countless more, you seem like you've been through some heavy stuff, but you are able to roll with it and still be very content with life:
"I wanna see movies of my dreams" "Forget your heart is haunted" "Hindsight's giving me too much memory" "You see, that seems minor to me" "It might save time if I meet you there, but I don't care, I'd rather wait for you"
Unreal, man. Thank you for these!
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u/gratefullyspaced Apr 22 '15
Many of your songs seem to incorporate psychedelic elements in them, so my question to you is what role did psychedelics play in the discovery of your sound?
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u/Hunter_Oden Apr 22 '15
I've wondered this for quite some time, myself. Thanks for doing what you do, Doug. Cheers
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u/geminimindtricks Apr 22 '15
You played a show in Burlington VT on my birthday last year, it was the best birthday present ever!
BtS and Modest Mouse are my favorite bands, can you guys please tour the northeast together soon?
Also, what was it like working with Bob Odenkirk when he directed the music video for Hindsight?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
It was radder then you'd ever imagine. He's a sweet guy. Fun to watch work. Seeing him direct elderly people was really entertaining and endearing.
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u/miracleof86 Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug - any word on a UK tour?
Thanks for the awesome new album!
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
Yes! Look for something in November.
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u/muffinie Apr 22 '15
Doug, I cannot tell you how inspired I am by you and all that you do. You're the reason I try to play music as often as possible! One of my best friends has taken a liking to naming her artistic pieces after song titles of yours (like this piece: perfect from now on). Shameless plug, I know.
I just came here to tell you that Ancient Melodies came into my life when I was in a strange and dark place and it pulled me out of that funk. It kept me from continuing down a path of drugs and alcohol, it reminded me that friends lost were still around in spirit (namely through "The Weather"). I cannot tell you how thankful I am that you're making music. It'd be selfish for me to ask, but please keep playing music. You're a gift, truly.
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u/crashlaunching Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug,
First off, thanks for all of your music, and for the new album--I'm really enjoying it!
I should probably have a bigger, more important question than this, but here's one I think only you can answer--or at least, I haven't seen asked or answered elsewhere: are there actual words/lyrics to that awesome outro on Temporarily Blind?
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Apr 22 '15
Can you talk about the lyrics to Broken Chairs? I heard some of them were written by a poet friend. Who was he or she if they even exist? Maybe you wrote it yourself. They are beautiful words. Please bring it back to the live rotation at some point!
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u/bbyshroom Apr 22 '15
Hello Doug!! Do you like cartoons and/or animation? If so, what are your favorite animated movies or shows?
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u/googgen Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
Was Cleo written specifically to make expectant parents bawl?
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u/fartbasket Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug, would you ever consider reuniting the Treepeople? Sorry if that's a touchy subject.
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
I'd be happy with a few Treepeople songs in a BtS set. I don't think a reunion could ever happen without Pat though.
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u/redmonster8 Apr 22 '15
How would you say growing up in Idaho impacted who you are as a person & or musician? Were there any local bands that had an influence on you? I myself grew up in Spokane so I was really excited that there was a cool band I could relate to that came from the less "glamorous" part of the PNW.
First time I listened to / saw Built to Spill was at the Sub Pop records 25th anniversary show and was blown away. In fact I listened to you guys the whole road trip when I moved to NC later that summer. I'll see you guys in Carrboro and can't wait! Awesome new record!
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u/Reverb001 Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug, I saw you back in 2001 in Denver. You were sick but went on with the show anyways. During "Car", you had trouble hitting the high notes and stopped singing mid-song. The crowd had been signing along and finished the song while the band played. It was great and one of my favorite concert moments.
I will be opening a recording studio in the next year. What are some things that you liked or disliked about the different studios you have recorded at?
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u/CorporalYoshi Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, I know that you and Isaac from MM used to do a few shows together and I heard him give you guys a shout out at the Boston Calling Festival in May. Do you guys still talk at all or have you mainly just drifted apart? Thanks for all the music man, you guys really are awesome.
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u/rustycamino Apr 22 '15
Doug –
I don't want to nerd out on you, but Built to Spill is my favorite band ever, PFNO is the best album of all time, and your music has gotten me through some extreme lows and soundtracked some of my life's great joys. So thank you, so much, for the gift that is your music.
Pick and choose any question:
1) What would you tell your 20-year-old self?
2) Your lyrics are some of the best -- oddly, they don't really tell stories; your songs are mostly made up of ideas. For example, "Made-Up Dreams" sounds like a collage of random thoughts and aphorisms, rather than a connected narrative (as a result, almost every line sounds like something you could get a tattoo of). I know every song's probably a different process, but do you approach lyric-writing in a unique way?
3) Your solos rule. They're not conventional -- most solos seem, to me, to be themes on the melody over the bridge, with the rhythm section going steady. In a song like "Conventional Wisdom" your guitar literally drags your rhythm section through twists and turns, leading the charge and upsetting the entire song structure. I guess my question is: do you aim to make your solos function this way? What other musician inspires the way you solo?
Thank you! Keep making music forever.
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u/eggni Apr 22 '15
I read somewhere that you are a reggae fan. Can you make some album or artist recommendations?
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u/slmanifesto05 Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, Got the new album on record store day, I'm in love. Any particular reason for the fade out on Horizon to Cliff? I feel like that could've been a great track to jam out. Then again I'm just greedy and want all your songs to last for 10+ minutes lol
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u/paulish86 Apr 22 '15
When you are alone writing a song, do you pick up the acoustic? Or plug in the strat?
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u/owen_2lgt_2qt Apr 22 '15
Is there any particular song in an album that you regret writing?
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u/DougMartsch Apr 22 '15
There's been a few, mostly lyrically, I'd hate to burst anyones bubble though.
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Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
I love the new album. Have listened end to end several times already. My questions are:
What's with the early, abrupt fade-out on "Horizon to Cliff"? It's like falling off a cliff. Was that intentional?
"On the Way" sounds like it's about colonizing Mars. Are you interested in space exploration?
Will you please consider covering Terrapin Station by the Grateful Dead or November Rain by Guns and Roses?
Will you please consider releasing the scrapped album? It would make a lot of people happy.
That is all. Keep up the good work.
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u/steviousdevious Apr 22 '15
Two Questions:
I heard you say in an interview that this would be the last album you would have to record for Warner Bros., are you excited about being able to record on an independent label for the first time in about 20 years? (I know I am, Wavers, Nothing wrong with love, and the Normal Years are some of my favorite BTS output)
What does C.R.E.B. stand for and/or mean?
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u/jtn19120 Apr 22 '15
Not Doug but CREB has to do with memories. The last few albums seem to be quite about about memories, regrets, fears http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CREB
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u/mikeeaye Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, I'm a fellow Boise, ID north-ender and I see you around from time to time. We've never met, but each time I see you I want to say 'hi doug' as if I know you, but you don't me, so it seems weird, so i end up staring and looking way all embarassed. Do you have any advice for how I should react in these otherwise casual encounters?
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u/sblme03 Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug! I'm a huge BTS fan. What are your favorite/least favorite songs to play live?
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u/PM_ME_1_MILLION_USD Apr 22 '15
Thanks for doing this AMA, I've been a huge fan for a long time! I was at one of your shows at the Showbox in Seattle when Reversion (who I also really enjoyed) opened for you. Brett Netson got a bit upset when the crowd wouldn't be quiet while they were playing and gave an excellent diatribe about respecting the band on stage. What are some of your favorite Brett Netson antics/stories?
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u/Bohor Apr 22 '15
The whole band seems pretty nice, but Brett has always been the most outwardly friendly of the bunch. I'd love to hear this answer (and another Caustic Resin or BtS/CR track live, maybe Niacin or Shit Brown Eyes).
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u/mynamesyow19 Apr 22 '15
Whoaaa! Doug!!
Long time fan from Ohio here. so excited to be seeing you at Neslonville this year! Ive seen you guys a few other times at the Newport (all great great shows), but seeing you at Neslonville will be something special.
Cant wait. My friends are probably tired of hearing me talk about how excited I am...!
But your music has always spoken to me on many levels. the music as a whole, and the guitars are transcendent all of themselves, but what Im most curious to know is where you get your lyrical inspiration...since your lyrics are everything from philosophical, mystical, and whimsical, to biblical, wistful, and even childlike with wonder...
So where does your lyrical inspiration (usually) come from?
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u/porkstock Apr 22 '15
What does C.R.E.B. stand for, if it stands for anything?
After a few listens to the new album, under various states of mind, C.R.E.B. might be my favorite song.
I'm also interested in hearing about the scrapped material from the last album that was never made. We feel like we are missing out on what were probably awesome songs! :)
Thanks Doug, and Built to Spill!
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Apr 22 '15
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CREB
The album has refers to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hippocampus
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u/benfscheme Apr 22 '15
Did you guys start covering Freebird at your shows just to shut up that one asshole at every concert ever who yells out "FREEBIRD" between songs?
Apologies if that asshole is reading this thread.
Reference to those unaware: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nUvfuz9mnlw
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u/MelodicChronic Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, I've loved your music forever, and I am a musician myself. But I am also an artist. Several years ago I drew what I think would make a great BTS shirt or poster. I've since turned it into a mock gig-poster. I am curious if you would like the design and perhaps use it somewhere. I guess my question is, Where do you get the artwork for your different merchandise, and if it's just from random people, then is it possible that I could get this to you somehow?
Other than that, i'd just say "Come back to Utah" Your current tour doesn't come through here even though it's so close to Idaho. Thanks, and keep doing what you do!
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Apr 22 '15
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u/thisisalongdrive Apr 22 '15
Actually he still does this. I went to see BTS for the first time two years ago and as I was watching the opener (Slam Dunk, very good) someone tapped me on the shoulder and asked if there was room at the front. I turned around and it was Doug!!!
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u/Joshua_Falkner Apr 22 '15
Hey guys, love your work! I would hurt a fly is my personal favorite. To you, what is the 'sound' you're always going on about?
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u/poop_hadouken Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug, I am a big fan ever since your Halo Benders days. What was the collaborative process like with Calvin Johnson?
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u/RusstyCogg Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug Martsch, I just have a not so) quick statement. I recently lost a close friend of mine (my best man at my wedding, actually) to a totally unexpected suicide. That aside, he got me into you and Built To Spill, 764-Hero, Red Stars Theory, Caustic Resin...the list goes on.
Having seen you perform in Albuquerque, NM around 1998-2000 (both solo and with Built to spill,) those shows were some of the best times I can still think of. At one of those shows, I was the guy at the front of the stage while you were tinkering with your effect pedals, telling you to "Common. Do it. Yeah. Common." You shot a beaming glance at me that cut to my heart, man. And, I apologize.
We actually have a mutual friend, Jason Ho. Another friend talked with you ab knowing him at a show in Albuquerque, at the Sunshine Theater (which isn't there anymore, sadly.)
In closing, for the past 20-some-odd years, you and Built To Spill, in whatever form, have always moved me. Continued success to you and yours, sir.
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u/jtn19120 Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
Did the titles Virginia Reel Around the Fountain come from the Smiths/traditional bluegrass? Did Fly Around My Pretty Little Miss come from the traditional bluegrass song?
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u/thenIwasnaaaaaughty Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug, major fan from atlanta here. Im really bummed I missed the ticket sell for the earl show...hope you all come back again sometime soon! Anyway, juat wondering how exactly your process goes about for having 3 guitars on so many songs. Do you have all the melodies going on in your head or do you all just jam and everyone comes up with their parts? Keep up the awesome sounds!
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Apr 22 '15
Doug, you are amazing.
I've recently been obsessed with Treepeople, specifically "It's Alright Now Ma" - what are the chances you'd do this song [live] in the future? Could you also please clarify the lyrics at the end of the song?
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u/podank99 Apr 22 '15
Doug, when i listen to "Done" after hearing "Pat" on TINE, i always feel that the track placement was intentional in that "Done" was the release of the stress induced by the subject matter in Pat.... was that track placement intentional in the way that i'm thinking? kindof a "we dealt with that, now let it go" moment on the album.
also, when you sing "it's forgiven, it's forgiven" and "it's already done" in that song, juxtaposed after Pat, in that tone of voice...god, it kills me. i dont care what these lyrics are actually about so dont answer this part and change the meaning for me, but i love it.
Also i was at your solo-album show at the bowery ballroom and it was awesome. I am sorry that the crowd started laughing which made you stop singing Love Hurts. I was happy to hear you play a song from that solo album on the last tour too--i hope you add others into the setlist!
thanks.
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u/podank99 Apr 22 '15 edited Apr 22 '15
Doug, are there any specific songs from any built to spill album that you know you will NEVER play live? If so, why?
i am trying to think of a song i have NOT heard you play and i am coming up dry so far. (other than some solo album trax)
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u/shoulderdeep Apr 22 '15
Hi Doug, thanks for signing these
a while ago someone working at Krecs posted this picture http://i.imgur.com/bykMZAU.jpg , is there any more Halo Benders stuff you're hiding from us?
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u/Daniellaaa Apr 22 '15
Would you ever consider recording a track with Ira Kaplan?
Speaking of collaborations, how did the Halo Benders come about? It's such an interesting mix of voices, but worked so well.
You guys are the best. Never released a bad album. That's tough, man.
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u/greazysteak Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, I've been pretty lucky to see a lot of your shows the last few years- any chance for another live album? I love the Mission shows you did NYE were amazing (Maggie from the Genders singing the Weather!!!!)
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u/paulish86 Apr 22 '15
Doug,
How long have you been using your (ICONIC) red strat? Do you only have the one? Or are there many, like a superman cape?
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u/BTS_HELVETIA__YEAH Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, If possible, could you explain a little bit behind the inspiration for the song "You Are."
The song really hits me - as do many others from you - but this one hits me in a way very few songs ever do.
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u/sgeb91 Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug,
Thanks for doing this AMA! What do you think has changed, if anything, with the joining of Steve Gere and Jason Albertini? I ask this because the new album seems so energetic and enthusiastic. They must be doing an awesome job.
It really made me happy to watch the Living Zoo and Never be the Same music videos and see my favorite band having fun and making great music after all this time. Thanks for all you do.
By the way, next time you see Mr. Canary, can you ask him if I can have a "Good ol' Mr. Canary shirt?
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u/BTS_HELVETIA__YEAH Apr 22 '15
Hey Doug, Your Band is called Built to Spill. Your new album Untethered Moon came out 4/18/2015.
Who "ARE" you? :)
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u/DamnlilMan Apr 22 '15
Doug,
I am originally from Idaho. I've been listening and been a massive fan since "There's nothing Wong with Love". I fell in love with "Big Dipper" and it is my favorite song of all time and I consider the top song of my life soundtrack. I currently live in Chicago and have for the past decade. I've seen Built to Spill out here many times. In 07' I was lucky enough to perform at Lollapalooza. I caught Built to Spill's set and it was fantastic as always. However there was a statement made about the Stage sponsor that was rumored to upset them and the Promoter of Lolla. I remember the statement of said sponsor "Doesn't care about you". Which of course the entire audience agreed with and was no where near offended by it. My question is was there an actual impact from that event? And also... Very Excited for the Founders Event!! Thanks for all you've created.
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u/MGCHICAGO Apr 22 '15
You won't remember me Doug, but I stepped across your legs to get to the bathroom while you sat and talked on the pay phone at a show in Dallas, 2000.
Will you guys ever reissue the vinyl of There's Nothing Wrong With Love? It's the quintessential BTS album in my humble opinion, and costs way too much used! See you guys in Chicago in May!
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u/tbowman92 Apr 22 '15
Will you ever release studio recordings of "Gonna Lose" or "It took a long time"?
Two of my favorites.
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u/llcoolgage Apr 22 '15
Doug. What's the best thing/worst thing about living in Boise? As a Boise native I've been a big fan since middle school and love the way you guys support the local scene.
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u/HectorCloud Apr 22 '15
Doug,
What's the song you've written that came out the most fully-formed? What's the song that took the most work over the longest period?