I met up with Ray at Dynamic Studio last Tuesday where he was finishing up the final touches on his new 11-song Le Rug album. I will be posting a Le Rug podcast tomorrow but for now here's a bit of background on Ray and Le Rug. DC
What instruments do you play? What is your main instrument? How old were you when you first started playing?
I play every instrument for the most part. My main instrument is guitar, I started playing around 9 or 10.
What bands are you known for and how long did each of those last?
I've been known for Le Rug (going on about 7 or 8 years) Butter The Children (2 Years) Red Dwarf (2 Years) & Sweet Bulbs (2 Years)
Describe the songwriting progress? Where does a song come from?
Recently I just wait until I get into the studio and then I improvise, I have a tough time trying to write stuff at home unless I have an Idea in my head first to then put onto an instrument.
When you are performing music live, how does it feel?
I like performing a bunch, its cathartic and ego boosting, though I hate everything else about playing shows such as talking to people, bullshitting, and being nice to other bands.
What is the most challenging part of having a band?
Dealing with other human beings.
Are band members ever allowed to have creative input?
If I trust them yes, there are some people back in NYC I trust, otherwise not that many people i would trust with my songs.
What were your earliest influences as a musician?
Built To Spill, The Smiths, Captain Beefheart, Husker Du, The Fall
Do you really hate Fugazi? (see Butter the Children clip)
Yeah I can't stand the singer, sounds like Homer Simpson on a benzo binge.
You just recorded an album in Bangkok? How did that go? How many days did it take? What was your budget?
It was great! It took me about 20 hours to complete tracking and mixing non stop and I did it for a around 7-800 bucks. 10/10 would record here again.
Listen to a Le Rug compilation by Austin's Fleeting Youth Records below. And the Le Rug 8 minute mini documentary from 2008 is a must see.
On a more personal note, I have a deadline for Razorcake in a week. Won't be getting out much except for AC/DC Tribute where I'll be playing one song with Deadtown Trash.
Still available for freelance photography! Will work for food, beer, money, guest lists. Feel free to drop by Rock Philosophy Headquarters in the lovely rustic environment of Niran Village just 3km off of the Bang Chak BTS. Please bring food. And beer. I will take your photos for free if you come with beer and food.
Jack Rabid of the fanzine, The Big Takeover, responded to my message! When the people that inspire you the most have the time to write back... well - it's pretty awesome and a reminder of why DIY artistic communities are so important.
Le Rug podcast will be up tomorrow. I promise. Should be entertaining - Ray is never short of opinions.
Link to Ray's Craigslist ad that I responded to here.