interview: nik thompson (44th sunset)

It has been four years since Perth band 44th Sunset first came together. After releasing their EP Boa Constrictor Hat in 2012, which featured the poppy and cleverly bitter "Caesar," the band are now working on a new album, as well as planning an Australian wide tour in 2015. Behind the scenes, 44th have shifted from a major label contract to littleBIGMAN records - a process that involved existential musings and reformation. Following the recent release of "The Hills," here's a bite size Q & A between 44th's Nik Thompson (vocals, guitar) and I.

What is the story behind your name "44th Sunset"? 

"The Little Prince" by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry teaches us that forty-four sunsets in a row can pretty much fix any emotional stress you can have. And I seriously love that book - I have a tattoo from it and everything.

After ending your contract with a major label, what did it take to unwind from your "convoluted state of being”?

First a large transitional period of just re-evaluating the band. The project needed to feel distinctly evolved. Then we had to re-assess how we got things done.

How is this change currently affecting the sound of your upcoming album?

There won’t be as much female vocals in the track now that we’re an all-male group again. The change hasn’t dramatically changed the sound, otherwise. The main difference is that the record is actually really happening.

Lyrically, where do you draw your ideas from?

Mostly the lyrics reference my insecurities in an obscure way, it feels good when you yell them out.

After being a band for four years and with an Australian-wide tour planned for next year, what experiences do you draw on for momentum to keep going?

Memories of other tours drive on the future ones. I/We like touring quite a lot.

A lot of people comment about the engaging experience of watching you live, what do you think happens within you and the band to make it so?

We really like to perform and feel comfortable releasing on stage.  Also, I always take off my shoes - that’s a big deal.

Does the Perth music scene have any characteristics that set it apart from other cities in Australia?

The Perth music scene is surprisingly large for Perth’s population. I guess the main characteristic is often just bands playing to the other bands.

What three things do you recommend for someone to do if he or she is into alternative music and visiting Perth?

Browse Noise Pollution Records. Come to one of our shows. Go to a Love Junkies show.