Animal Collective’s Avey Tare Visits The Chapel with Fresh Tunes
Musician David Portner, co-founder of experimental pop band Animal Collective, and known by his performance moniker Avey Tare, has a show stop at The Chapel next week in support of his latest solo album, Cows on Hourglass Pond.
The new record is the third solo effort by Avey Tare, who also previously worked with Panda Bear (Noah Lennox) on three collaborative albums. His third solo LP, which was released late last month, was recorded on a Tascam 48 half-inch reel-to-reel tape machine. Many of the songs sound nostalgic, with ambient, folk-like details on the surface. Yet they’re littered with all kinds of dubbing and lush textures, guiding the listener on a sonic journey. Furthermore, many of the tracks include music videos perfectly-paired with psychedelic visuals, hinting at what should be a surreal live performance.
With his show upcoming on April 15th at The Chapel, we did a rapid-fire interview with Portner to learn more about his artistic approach and what he loves about visiting SF.
What inspired the material on the album?
Lots of long drives around the United States, especially in canyon country.
Why did you record it in on a tape machine?
It’s the recording medium I’m most used to and I wanted to get better at. I have an eight-track so I found the limitations to be helpful for the process. I wanted to keep it as minimal as possible.
Who are some on your songwriting influences?
The Incredible String Band. Syd Barret, and Arthur Lee.
What instruments did you play on the new record?
Guitar, bass guitar Roland Juno 60, and some drum machines.
What live performance elements will you bring with you on tour?
I’m being helped out by Deakin from Animal Collective and also Jeremy Hyman who has played with as recently as well. [I’m] Trying to keep the feel of the record as consistent as possible in the live realm.
Do you have any pre-show routines or rituals?
I listen to music. I like to relax. I [also] do some breathing exercises and warm my voice up.
What do you like most about visiting San Francisco?
Unsurprisingly (probably) I feel very connected to the cultural explosion that happened there in the sixties. But I love the atmosphere and all of the flora and fauna as well. It’s such a misty town. And I love Mexican cuisine and its a gem for that.
