HEALTH
HEALTH hail from Los Angeles. They have recently released their second album, Get Color, which has been received well critically. HEALTH consciously aim to be experimental and keep music sounding fresh for the kids. They sound like spasmodic changes in pace and rhythm, big driving drum beats, sparse, distorted guitars and understated vocals. Answers from bassist John Famiglietti:

What were you up to when you first got together?

Depressing terrible jobs. Jake was a medical historian for victims of job related injuries. Jupiter worked with severely emotionally disturbed young orphan girls. I was a production coordinator on craft (knitting, crochet) TV shows. BJ worked at an antique store.

What are you up to now?

This band. We have some non musical but HEALTH related projects coming down the pipeline. Stay tuned.

How enjoyable has the production of Get Color been compared to your debut?

Much easier to produce and record. But the mixing was frustrating. I think we know the right formula for the next record. But like making any record, overall miserable.

How do you usually go about polishing off songs once you've come up with an initial idea?

Write it down. Work through it piece by piece with all the members.

What's the routine on an average day on tour with HEALTH?

Get up hungover. Sit in a van all day. Get to the show late. Soundcheck right before doors. Play show. Drink. Crash at some kids house (in US, hotel in Europe), repeat.

Do you find it difficult to maintain a healthy lifestyle whilst recording and touring?

Yes. It's impossible, unless you wanna be totally fucking bored.

What instruments and other items do you take with you on tour?

Everything we have. Plus merchandise

Where in Los Angeles do you like to hang out when you're not with the band?

The beach. The park. My house.

What's the most important thing your mum ever taught you?

Everything you wanna do is 1% inspiration, 99% perspiration.

[Oct 2009] Back to Top