Interview with the Watson Twins (Jammin' January continues!)

We're so excited to have the Watson Twins as the next artist in our Jammin' January series. The Watson Twins will unveil their sophomore release Talking To You, Talking To Me on Vanguard Records February 9, 2010, their most ambitious album to date. The new album finds the Watson Twins taking a soulful turn a la Carole King, but with a pop edge reminiscent of Feist. The result is a heartfelt nod to their roots, retaining the ethereal harmonies that have become their signature while incorporating a variety of influences and inspirations.


Leigh and Chandra Watson took a second to answer some of our questions. Here's what they had to say...

ful: What aspect of making music excites you the most right now?
Watson Twins: The whole process from writing a song, to recording, to the live show are all important parts of the experience. We are about to go out on the road promoting our new record "Talking To You, Talking To Me" and that is truly exciting.

ful: Which songs do you perform most frequently? Do you have a set play list?
WT: We try and change up our set list frequently. There isn't really any method to the madness, but if we play with a full band or just the two of us acoustic that can dictate things. My sister and I love working up new covers and those are always fun to throw in the mix. Also, with a new record coming out... we'll be focusing a lot of the set time on the songs. VERY EXCITING!

ful: What's your favorite song to play?
WT: I'm into playing a new song off TTY, TTM called "Brave One." My sister and I sing almost the entire song together, which isn't something we do all the time, and that puts a lot of energy behind the track.

ful: What's the most unusual place you've ever played a show or made a recording? How did the qualities of that place affect the show/recording?
When we toured with our friend Jenny Lewis we played a lot of really unique venues. The Angel Orensanz in NYC sticks out as eerie and beautiful. It's a gothic-revival synagogue that was built in 1849, its one of the oldest in the United States. The acoustics were insane and the place just felt as if it had its own energy. We started the set acappella from the back of the venue and it just carried throughout the entire place, pure sonic beauty.

ful: What was the last song you wrote? Can you tell us about it?
WT: Now... I can't divulge that information. Hahaha, don't you want it to be a surprise?

ful: Your new album comes out next month. Any songs you're most excited about?
WT: Modern Man, Devil In You, Harpeth River... I actually want to just rattle of the track list for the entire record. All the songs are a lot of fun to sing and play. I can't wait for people to hear it.

ful: What bands are you loving right now? Who would you love to play with?
WT: Last night I was listening to Nick Cave and Bad Seeds and just absorbing his beautiful lyrics and avant-garde style of music, so talented. I'm loving the new Tegan and Sara record. Florence + the Machine are a favorite. And as of late, Bossa Nova has been creeping up in my music collection more and more. Our dream: Sing back-ups for Eryka Badu!

ful: What advice do you have for people who want to give it a go in the music industry?
WT: Patience and persistence. Make music that you love and is true to you.

ful: Do you keep in touch with Jenny Lewis? Planning any more collaborations in the future?
WT:Our experience of making a record together and touring was pretty amazing and its kept us all connected. As far as collaborations... who knows what the future hold for the Watson Twins.