Alain Johannes Interview

In addition to his many projects and collaborations, Alain Johannes has earned a reputation as a remarkably formidable creative and musical force of his own. His rhythmic flurries, production technique and style of instrumental expression contain a depth of haunting warmth and classical flare that’s become an audible signature of the man himself, as evidenced in his stunningly gorgeous solo album Spark.

Having established a name for himself as a cofounder of Eleven with his late wife Natasha Shneider and former Pearl Jam drummer Jack Irons, Alain has concreted his artistic legacy as a contributor to an avalanche of such hugely respected music projects. Acts including Queens Of The Stone Age, Them Crooked Vultures, Eagles Of Death Metal, Chris Cornell, Mark Lanegan and more have featured his soulful stringwork.

We’re honored to have Alain on the bill for our SXSW showcase alongside Eagles of Death Metal, Black Drawing Chalks, My Goodness and more – full show details here. We caught up with him beforehand to discuss his work with Sound City Players, his contributions to the new Queens of The Stone Age album, his plans for the rest of 2013 and beyond.

How did you get involved in this year’s SXSW?

Through Sound City Players originally and now through you guys.

Do you have any history with Austin? It’s such a fantastic town for the arts…

I love it have played there a bunch starting with my first band What Is This in the early 80’s then with Eleven, QOTSA and Them Crooked Vultures. I love walking into bars and hearing badass musicians. A really high level in the local talent pool

Your Sound City soundtrack contributions were fantastic – particularly “A Trick With No Sleeve” and “Centipede”. We can hear the magic on the listening side, but what is it about working with those particular guys that brings out such strong color and character in the music you create?

Thank you. I think it comes down to the friendship and chemistry which has it’s roots in our collective and individual passion and obsession with all things music.

What’s been your favorite experience while onstage as a part of the Sound City Players show?

Every second I’m on that stage playing with my heroes and peers as well as off watching them tear it up.

You’ve been working with Brody Dalle on a new record – can you tell us more about that?

It’s going to be amazing. She’s such a huge force as an artist, writer, musician and singer.

Who are the latest bands you’re working with at 11AD?

I had a great fun year working with Jimmy Eat World, Firekind, Anis Shimada, Loading Data, HiFI Klub and currently The Mighty Stef.

What can you tell us about your contributions to the new QOTSA record?

I was involved on the recording side in the early stages. So excited to hear what they’ve cooked up. I get to be a fan and be surprised and amazed. Stoked.

We’ve heard about the carousel of guests, the length of time spent on writing and recording, the drummer situation and the mysterious teases – but if you had to sum up the new Queens record in one statement, what would it be?

I’m sure it’s going to cut a new path into the future of rock music

What’s next for you in terms of solo work? The few tracks on the Not On This Earth release from last year were very promising…

Thank you. I’m gonna put those out at some point need to add a couple but really I’m already moving towards this burning desire to put on my electric and get some volume going, I have a couple secret alliances forming that hopefully will materialize as a couple new bands. Been in the studio so long I’m aching for some artistic release haha

Think we’ll ever see another Desert Sessions installment?

I’m sure cause you can’t stop the need to get back to the Rancho and throw yourself in the fire with new and old friends

Hypothetical: Your entire house is on fire – strictly talking musical instruments/memorabilia, what three items do you grab before the flames take over?

My ’62 Jazzmaster, my cigarbox guitar and my photo album.