photos by Marina Chavez
by Brittney Corridean
Wrapping up a few shows in the Austin, TX area, Philly’s own Kurt Vile had a couple minutes to chat about his upcoming NYE show at The Fillmore, the success of his latest album, and just being on the road.
“I definitely got to see my family a little more which is nice, I’m making my way back home now to spend time with them,” says Vile.
I’m not sure about you, but I think it’s an extra nice welcome that he has some time to kick it with family and then a first time performance at a newer venue in his hometown.
In the past year, Vile completed his most recent album b‘lieve i’m goin down, which took about that long to complete. Since then he’s had his “hands in a lot of stuff” such as being featured on Pitchfork for best new album & track, guest appearing on HBO’s show Animals as a far out squirrel, collaborating with other artists such as Pat McLaughlin, Endless Boogie and plenty more…but who’s counting?
Also coming up in the New Year, Vile will be heading over to Australia. He has ventured a few times before, but this time for a solo tour. While over there he will be taking some time to collaborate with the beloved contemporary rock artist Courtney Barnett. Which fans could be quite enthralled to see what comes of it. Needless to say Vile has been quite fruitful in his artistic endeavors lately.
Even though so much is going on in his growing life of rock n’ roll, Vile remains humble and excited about his musical path. Honestly, he is pretty stoked about coming home and enjoying time with his family and old friends for a bit.
Vile grew up on music. He would listen his grandad’s records of bands like the Beatles and Creedence Clearwater Revival. As he got older, his musical palate changed, getting into Smashing Pumpkins and other grunge/indie rock bands like Dinosaur Jr. He eventually ended up touring and working with Dinosaur Jr. too.
“Philly has influenced me, but it’s hard to put into words,” states Vile on the influence of his hometown, “You grow up in this blue collar sort of industrial area that is surrounded by big city things, decaying buildings… you kind of have to live there to really understand it.”
As for his latest album, he’s enjoyed a bit of success. “It’s definitely a late night type of record that has this contemplative, takes you into outer space a little bit feel. It’s mid-tempo, kind of hypnotic,” states Vile of his work, adding that the fifth track, “Wheelhouse”, is probably his favorite.
If you weren’t able to score tickets to Vile’s upcoming NYE show, grab some ASAP. No, kidding, but if you haven’t checked him out by now, best b’lieve you should sometime soon.
