E: The band Mustard Plug has been operating for over a decade, releasing albums for faithful fans and enduring the constantly changing state of today's scene... what prominent elements of the musical community would you say your band has witnessed since its conception?
Jim: We've seen tons of scenes rise and fall since we began--grunge, swing... hopefully emo will be over soon. If anything, it's strengthened our resolve to not be trendy. We're not trying to capitalize on the next big thing. We do what we do and we love what we do.
E: Do you think your band's success was largely based on the advantageous time period you started out in?
Jim: Yeah, I would definitely say so. When Mustard Plug began there was just a handful of ska bands, so it was easy to get an audience, no matter how bad you were. And really, starting is the hardest part.
E: How has Mustard Plug had to defy stereotypes or assumptions as it's been releasing music these years?
Jim: The stereotype of the cheesy ska band that Mustard Plug began as has been the hardest stereotype to overcome. But I think we've done that and moved on.
E: With a band running for over ten years, is there more or less pressure on its members to keep the music as a primary focus instead of branching out to other projects?
Jim: Even though we don't tour as much as we used to, and we all have side jobs at home, the band is our main commitment. How often do you get to do what we do? We all realize how blessed we are.
E: The band just released a Greatest Hits compilation, a trend several other ska bands have done or plan to do... do you think that this is one of the last eulogizing components of bringing truth to the "ska is dead" belief?
Jim: Well, first of all, the Ska Is Dead Tour is about proving that ska isn't dead. It's on its third run now and going amazingly well! We released a greatest hits to respond to the new evolution of the ska scene. All the new people in the scene that don't know what Mustard Plug is about can buy one CD and get educated. And no, we're not done yet--we're busy writing another CD right now!
E: Do you think your fans have changed at all over the years you�ve been playing?
Jim: Our fan base has evolved since the beginning. Back in the early 90's, we played 21 and over bar shows in front of skinheads and mods and rudeboys. Over the years, the crowd keeps getting younger. And we keep getting older!
E: What factors did you take into account when selecting songs to go on the new album?
Jim: We wanted to have a good amount of songs from each of our albums. But other than that, it's basically our set list when we play live.
E: What are the benefits, do you think, of releasing an album comprised of almost all previously released material, instead of recording new material to release?
Jim: The major benefit is all the money we saved on studio time! Also it fills a gap between albums. We take a really long time to write--but our new one will be out next year.
E: In spite of a slightly different style of music being prominent today, what lessons do you think your band evolved by learning that are still necessary steps for any band starting out, be they ska or screamo?
Jim: Don't try to sound and look like everyone else. Be yourself! Don't take yourself too seriously and have fun!!
E: Thanks a whole lot... anything else?
Jim: One thing I've noticed while being out on the Ska Is Dead tour is how much we need ska! Right now, music is about conformity and depression. Boring! When I go to see a band, I want to see something original and have fun! It's time to rediscover happy music! |
