Canadian/American act Envy of None (the new band from Rush's Alex Lifeson) have released the title track from their forthcoming album, Stygian Waves. We asked bassist and songwriter Andy Curran the BIG questions . . .
Speaking about the new single and album, Andy says, "This track is a favourite of all four EONs. Despite the fact of the spartan lyrical content, this song features our sweet Maiah on lead vocals. Her harmonies and layers of vocals are literally symphonic! It’s hard to put a finger on what style or genre this one is…and we’re proud of that!"
Envy Of None are Lifeson on guitar, Andy, who also plays with Coney Hatch and Soho 69, on bass/programming and production, Alfio Annibalini on keyboards, and American singer-songwriter Maiah Wynne.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
Born and raised in Toronto, Canada but my family has strong Irish roots and I finally was able to return to visit Ireland last year. I spent time with my wife and friends in Dublin, Galway and the Conamara area. I honestly felt like I was "home" and I will return soon as I’m saving up to buy a castle! I’m an avid ice hockey fan and still skate two to three times a week. Lastly, music is in my veins so I keep trying to reinvent and return to my creative safe place.
How would you describe your music?
I’m Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde! I have my hard rock personality with Coney Hatch that for the most part is adrenaline-infused four on the floor rock ‘n’ roll and my alter ego project with Alex Lifeson from Rush, Envy of None is a vibey, trippy, edgy landscape of sounds that range from alt electronic to soulful melodies and rhythms. I honestly can’t put a tag on what kind of music it is but its sure been rewarding and a lot of fun to be part of.
Who are your musical inspirations?
My early musical roots were all etched in hard rock like Aerosmith, Thin Lizzy, UFO, but as a bassist. I started down the rabbit hole to strive to be a better bassist, so Jaco from Weather Report, Stanley Clarke, Chris Squire and Geddy Lee of Rush all became part of that journey for me to branch out and listen to jazz fusion and prog rock to broaden my horizons as a musician.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Double answer here. My first ever big concert was Bachman Turner Overdrive and The Beach Boys in Toronto. I loved early BTO and did not stay for The Beach boys (I know, I’m an idiot ) but the one shortly thereafter that I will never forget and inspired me to want to play music for a living was The Edgar Winter Group and opening act, Bad Company. Amazing unforgettable show. Frankenstein with a giant mirror ball and clouds of weed smoke everywhere!
What was the first record you ever bought?
Kinda sorta embarrassing now, but guilty as charged. I bought the "45 of Yummy Yummy Yummy by the Ohio Express. Pure bubblegum ! but redeemed myself by purchasing my first 12-inch album, Edgar Winter's Shock Treatment.
What’s your favourite song right now?
For new artists, I’ve been listening a lot to Tame Impala. Yes, I’m Changing is a great track. Other end of the spectrum would be King Buffalo’s Goliath, Pt 2.
Favourite lyric of all time?
I’ve always admired Steven Tyler from Aerosmith, who constructs his lyrics based on the cadence of the sound coming off your tongue and as rule, doesn’t have to make sense if it sounds good. Theres a line from a song of theirs called Last Child that reads – "Ready to make a silk purse from a J. Paul Getty and his ear, with her face and a beer". When I first heard it I was like WTF, this is so cool and out there.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Such a tough question. Today I would answer Bob Marley & the Wailers, Three Little Birds by Bob Marley & the Wailers.
Where can people find your music/more information?
As previously mentioned - Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Two locations - here and here.
Alan Corr
.svg)