Lovedrug Interview

by John on January 26th, 2009

Lovedrug is essentially a solo project with a rotating cast. Throughout the band’s eight-year history, there has been one constant and one constant only: that Michael Shepherd has been at the helm. As the vocalist/songwriter, who also occasionally takes on guitar and piano duties, Shepherd obviously has a large role in the band. The creative genius behind Lovedrug took the time to do a quick interview.

Does your recent album cover have any certain significance, or did you just simply like the way it looked?

That was Matt Gordon’s doing. We let him listen to the music and that’s what he saw. So, we just went with it. It really fits, if you ask me.

All three of your records have a sound that is unique from the others. Is this conscious, or has it just worked out that way?

Well, it probably has something to do with the fact that there’s been different band members recording on each record. But regardless, I’ve never been able to repeat myself. My music has always been like a snapshot in time. It only lasts for that moment…you can go back and look at the picture as much as you want, but it’ll never be exactly the same again.

How do you go about songwriting?

It always just starts with a thought or a melody, something very simple. But then it gets thrown into a pit of angry wolves and fucked around with until it looks like a strange and beautiful monster. That’s usually when we record it. If you wanted the song in original form, you’d have to be in my head I guess.

What are your future plans?

I’d like to get married and settle down and maybe…oh, I’m sorry, you probably meant musically. I think we’re gonna hit the road to support this record for a bit, go over to Europe and let them get a taste of us for a while. Then more than likely return and write a new album for a new label.

With so many lineup changes, how have you managed to keep a sense of stability?

I haven’t.

What bands have influenced your sound the most?

It’s a toss-up between The Chainsaw Kittens and Led Zeppelin.

Where do you see your bands in five years?

Really popular, or all dead.

Why did you choose to release ‘Everyone Needs a Halo’ as the first song for fans to hear from the record?

Good question. That wasn’t my call at all. I wanted to push ‘Broken Home’ or ‘Blood Like’ first. The thing about ‘Everyone Needs a Halo’ is that it’s a temper tantrum. Is that the first thing you’d want people to hear about you?

Who are your favorite bands to tour with?

Probably bands that we haven’t toured with yet.

If you could share the stage with any bands, who would they be?

Currently…The Smashing Pumpkins circa 1994, Nine Inch Nails, BRMC, Fiona Apple…or just Nickelback.

What were your favorite records to come out in 2008?

Kings of Leon – Only by the Night

Is there anything you’re excited for in 2009, musically or otherwise?

I’m excited to be out of our record deal with the Militia Group. That and the fact that we have a new president.

Well, that’s our last question. Anything else you’d like to say?

Yes. Live fast and dream slow.

Thanks go out to Brandon Chamberlain for setting up the interview, and Michael for answering our questions. Please note that the interview was edited slightly for grammar, but the content of the interview was not changed.