Interview // Tex Crick

Tex Crick’s debut Live In…New York City presents a formal introduction to the songwriting and musicianship of the longtime reliable onstage sidekick for Australian favorites Connan Mockasin, Alex Cameron, and Kirin J. Callinan. Landing this week as indie icon Mac Demarco’s first official signing to his new record label, Crick’s new record shares the innocuous and lovable candor shared by the label founder.

You’re honored with being the first signing by Mac Demarco to his new label Mac’s Record Label. What were the expectations for carrying the label’s brand into new territory? What parts of your art do you feel align best with Mac’s vision?

Yeah, It’s my first signing as well as theirs. We’re all getting used to making it work. I’m really grateful. I’ve got some big shoes to fill. You know, I just don’t wanna let anyone down.

It’s hard to say. I’m not sure. It’s an easy listen -a fun record with a good message.

Can you explain some of the ways Mac’s mixing techniques lead to the record’s sound?

I’d made a rough mix of the record before I sent it around. There wasn’t much flavor to it. I was just plugging the mic/guitars straight into the 8-track and recording like that. It wasn’t bad, but people were saying it could be spiced up a little.

I sent it over to Mac, he offered to try a mix and run it through some of his gear. He was really into the songs, and helped glue it all together. We ran my vocals through an echo chamber he’d built under his house. I lost track of all the gear we were using, but it was nice and subtle in the best way possible. I can’t give it all away now, can I?

Live In...New York City is your newest solo record. How has your writing or recording style evolved since your first record three years ago?

The songwriting naturally evolved. I’m writing progressions based on lyrical phrases now, rather than piano melodies. Using my voice. There’s a whole new world of expression to give. I played guitar on this record, which I thought I’d never do. My last record was an all synth & keyboard affair. Things are a little more refined now, there’s essentially no effects on any of the instruments. It’s a raw and honest record. Recording was, and still is, all on the 8-track. I don’t own a computer.

This is your first record featuring your own singing voice. What moved you to bring your vocals into your art?

I wanted to see if I could do it. It was the natural thing to do. That’s about it.

The record was recorded in New York City, a place you’ve spent a considerable amount of time. What aspects of the city are most inspiring to you as a creative? What neighborhoods or establishments in the city are most important to you?

It was more about the lifestyle. The hustle and bustle. That’s what I love. It couldn’t be more different from where I grew up. It’s easy to get carried away. Always something going down. Anytime, any place.

You’ve been an important role player in many touring bands. You’ve appeared onstage with Iggy Pop, Alex Cameron, Connan Mockasin, and others. What are the most impactful lessons you’ve learned working with those folks?

I learned everything I know on the road. Learning to live out of a suitcase. Something nice about having all your things right there in one place. I only played with Iggy once, in Hawaii. Alex & Roy would join Kirin, and I on stage from time to time. There is only one Connan Mockasin. They’re all dang good at what they do. Generosity. Compassion. Kindness… Music makes the world go round.

Currently you’re residing in Tokyo, Japan. What drew you to the city and how do the cultural differences impact you as a songwriter and artist? How does the music community differ there?

I ended up here by chance, it’s a beautiful place. I can’t speak the language, so I don’t understand what’s going on most of the time. I’ve got a little studio in the attic. It’s peaceful. I don’t know enough about the music scene to make assumptions, but people seem to be more open and understanding. There’s a lot of respect for musicians here. People assume you’re really good at what you do.

The record cover has a hilarious story. Can you explain how the cover photo came to be?

Haha… It’s a long story. The record cover is a picture of me walking through Central Park. It was shot by a private detective who I’d led to believe was chasing down an illicit love affair. Obviously I had too much time on my hands. He followed me around all day taking photos. I ended up using that one for the artwork. There’s more to the story, but you get the idea. I still don’t know what the guy looked like, I only know his first name... Ed.

Purchase Tex Crick’s new album Live In… New York City out 3/26 via Mac’s Record Label.