AJR's Ryan and Jack Met share the journey behind their album, OK Orchestra, in a conversation with Kyle Meredith. This album, unlike previous works, was heavily influenced by the introspective nature of the pandemic, with themes revolving around fears of obsolescence and the lingering impact of formative years, particularly eighth grade.
Ryan and Jack explain that the album didn’t start with a clear concept but evolved organically as they wrote songs that naturally reflected their thoughts and concerns during the pandemic. They soon realized that the album was becoming a personal exploration of their lives, touching on themes of self-reflection, growth, and the anxieties of adulthood. This inward focus led to songs that question identity and authenticity, like "Three O’Clock Things," where they explore the duality of the self—the person one projects versus who they truly are.
The discussion also delves into how the band has always been drawn to the transitional period of eighth grade, a time when one is on the cusp of adolescence, navigating the complexities of identity and social dynamics. This period in their lives seems to act as a recurring motif in their music, reflecting the vulnerability and uncertainty that comes with such a pivotal age.
In terms of musical influences, the brothers express their fascination with the sound of the '30s and '40s, which they skillfully integrate into their modern pop songs. For instance, they reveal that the close harmony female-style vocals in their song "Three O’Clock Things" were inspired by the big band era, aiming to capture a nostalgic yet fresh sound that resonates with contemporary audiences.
AJR also discusses the role of social media and how it has reshaped their relationship with fans. They highlight a shift in the music industry where artists no longer strive for universal appeal but instead focus on building a dedicated fanbase that deeply connects with their work. This approach has allowed them to maintain authenticity while still achieving mainstream success, as evidenced by their hit single "Bang!" and the unexpected endorsement from Will Smith, who spontaneously freestyled over the track.
The conversation briefly touches on their collaboration with Rivers Cuomo of Weezer on the song "All My Favorite Songs." The band notes the coincidental similarity between Weezer's album title OK Human and their own OK Orchestra, emphasizing that it was purely unintentional but indicative of a shared mindset and creative wavelength between the two acts.
In addition to their musical endeavors, the Met brothers proudly discuss their brother Adam's work in Washington, D.C., where he’s pursuing a Ph.D. while engaging in sustainability efforts. Adam’s work focuses on crafting policies that promote environmental sustainability and making these issues resonate with younger audiences, reflecting the band's broader commitment to positive change both through their music and beyond.
The interview wraps up with AJR expressing their excitement about future tour plans and the prospect of reconnecting with fans in a live setting. They hint at potential new dates, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to bring their latest album to life on stage.
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