Pompeya’s infiltration into the indie rock scene has been more of a slow burning breakthrough than the typical hook-laden meteor. The wait between 2007 new wave riff chucker “Checker” and this year’s velvety remix of the title track of their US debut album Tropical is a testament to the Moscow band’s persistence, consistency, and altogether infectiousness. This punchy quartet has no intentions of squandering the limelight; it only serves to illuminate their carefully calculated journey. While the details of that journey reside between Pompeya’s four members, their destination seems obvious (and well-earned) — pulsing in our ears and sneaking into our hearts. Below, band member Daniil Brod dishes on the band’s colorful past, their vibrant future, and everything in between.
You draw inspiration from a variety of decades — from ’80s New Wave synth lines to ’90s pop inclinations. How do you keep it all balanced?
Hmmm… this is an interesting question! We just always feel like “This part is okay for Pompeya, and that is not okay…” when we are picking out elements to add to songs. It’s a bit difficult to explain. Once we get into it, it just happens… we don’t analyze the feel and style too much. I am sure we can make songs in any genre — and we’ll still keep Pompeya’s vibe. We always use the same instruments though, clean Fender guitar and bass, and have the same minds behind it.
Does each member of the band have a specific role in the band’s songwriting, or is it more of a varying collaboration?
Myself (Daniil) and Denis do most of the song writing. Typically we will create demos just us, and from the basic arrangements we will all four build it out to more complete songs. It really depends though.
How has the recording process of your latest EP, Foursome, differed from that of your debut album?
Not much difference. All records are almost the same process, although Foursome was recorded in LA, so the location did inspire us a bit. First album (Tropical, Russian version) was recorded during the deep snowy winter in the village. Both were released in the US together as Tropical.
How do you feel about the reception your US debut, Tropical, has received?
We are pretty much satisfied, the reviews have been very nice to read. The radio play has also been great, we love college radio here in the US. In Russia, we don’t have that. We can only hope for more with the new material and remixes.
Do you feel that your sound from the band’s inception differs from its present sound?
Of course! We changed the sound in 2008, which before sounded more like a traditional indie Brit rock band. More guitar-driven music. Then we decided to use synthesizers and shift into more danceable music. The first track from that change was “Cheenese.” That was our decision, to make a newer style.
You’ll be wrapping up your first US tour this month — what’s your most memorable experience from the tour?
It might be funny — but for me it was THE HUB, this old dive bar in Tampa FL. Such a mixed and crazy crowd. We had no expectations, the show was free, and kind of put together in a DIY fashion. But everyone was dancing and had a great time, so it really was memorable.
What’s the largest difference you see between European and American audiences when performing live?
They are pretty much the same. The only difference I can notice is between Mexican fans and the rest of the world. We played in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Atlan in December. Those guys are really crazy!!! We loved their enthusiasm. Americans and Europeans are more tame, I guess.
Do you feel that completing your first tour has changed the way you view your music?
Well, anytime we go to a new city or new venue, we have to adapt the music somehow. It’s hard to explain. It’s constantly changing and influencing us, like everything else. Every moment in our lives affects the music.
What’s up next for the band?
We have a remix LP for TROPICAL, which includes FelixDaHauscat, Jimmy Edgar, Fred Falke, Psychemagik, and more. And then we have a new EP with completely new material. For that, we are going to SXSW and touring the new material there and on the West Coast. And then a new LP too in the fall. So lots of plans!
Pompeya
Facebook
Twitter
Soundcloud
Interview by Shannon Shreibak. Follow her on twitter @shannonshreibak.
