The Black Keys
The Black Keys
1Digest
This podcast features an interview with Dan Auerbach and Patrick Carney of The Black Keys. They detail their recording process, which has evolved from self-mixing to collaborations with renowned engineers like Chad Blake and Spike Stent, often prioritizing capturing live energy. Their sound, evolving from the raw energy of "Delta Cream" to their later work, is influenced by their Akron upbringing, local characters, and their "record hangs"—informal listening sessions that shape their musical direction. The band discusses the impact of these sessions, the influence of their father's antique business, and the evolution of their musical tastes. They also contrast the current music landscape with their early days, noting the overwhelming amount of music available and the challenges of effective promotion in this environment. The discussion touches upon their experiences with various producers and their unique approach to recording, sometimes starting with bass and drums, other times with jam sessions. Their influences range from raw blues and soul to the eclectic sounds discovered during their record hangs.
Outlines
The Black Keys' Recording Process and Musical Evolution
The Black Keys discuss their recording evolution, from self-mixing to collaborations with renowned engineers, their unique approach (often starting with bass and drums), and the influences shaping their sound from "Delta Cream" to their latest album.
Akron Influences and the Origin of The Black Keys
The band details their Akron upbringing, the impact of local characters and their father's antique business, the origin of their band name, and how their musical tastes have evolved over time, including the influence of their record-listening habits.
Record Hangs, Modern Music, and Promotion Strategies
The Black Keys discuss their "record hangs," their impact on their music, the challenges of promoting music in the modern era, and their perspectives on the overwhelming amount of music available today.
Keywords
The Black Keys
American blues rock duo known for their raw sound and unique recording process.
Delta Cream (The Black Keys Album)
The Black Keys' 2021 album, known for its raw, jam-session feel.
Chad Blake
Renowned mixing engineer who has worked extensively with The Black Keys.
Record Hangs (The Black Keys)
Informal gatherings where The Black Keys play and listen to records, influencing their creative process.
Akron, Ohio
The hometown of The Black Keys, significantly influencing their musical style and identity.
Analog Recording
Recording music using analog equipment, a method utilized by The Black Keys.
Blues Rock
The genre of music primarily associated with The Black Keys.
Music Promotion
Strategies and challenges of promoting music in the modern era, as discussed by The Black Keys.
Spike Stent
Mixing engineer who has worked with The Black Keys.
Maddie Merrick
Producer who has worked with The Black Keys.
Q&A
How has The Black Keys' recording process evolved over time?
From self-mixing to collaborations with renowned engineers, maintaining a focus on capturing live energy.
What is the significance of the "record hangs" in The Black Keys' creative process?
These informal listening sessions expose them to diverse music, influencing their song choices and overall sound.
How does the current music landscape differ from when The Black Keys started, and how does this affect their approach to releasing music?
The sheer volume of music released daily presents a challenge; they adapt by strategically releasing music and creating unique fan experiences.
What are some of the key influences on The Black Keys' music?
Blues music, soul music, their Akron upbringing, and their "record hangs."
Show Notes
The Black Keys are gearing up to release their latest album, No Rain, No Flowers. The Akron, Ohio duo consisting of Dan Auerbach on lead vocals and guitar, and Patrick Carney on drums, have released 12 studio albums since their indie debut, The Big Come Up in 2002.
On today's episode Justin Richmond talks with Dan and Patrick about their process of mixing the new album. They also share memories growing up together in a town filled with eccentric characters, and they explain their newfound love of DJing parties where they challenge themselves to make people dance to an eclectic mix of unknown songs.
You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from The Black Keys HERE.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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