Mark Thresher from ‘Forest Fire’ caught up for a quick chat with our very own Matt Dwyer. The band’s latest album Screens is now out on Fat Cat Records

MD: After some of personnel changes within Forest Fire how does this grouping of musicians feel differently than the others?

MT: This is the first time I have ever had a solid band I can count on. As a four piece we are half classically trained musicians & half self taught amateurs. Having these players has changed the way I view the writing process. Right now I feel like the possibilities are endless.

MD: How are you feeling about receiving so many positive reviews for Screens?

MT: We felt like we made something true & special the moment we finished it. I am very happy that a few people agree. We’ve always made music for ourselves first and foremost & we’ve never been a group for the masses. It is my hope that as time goes on people will continue to discover Screens & wonder when it was made & why it was made.

MD: Do you have a ritual when it comes to songwriting?

MT: No rituals. I have no idea why I write songs, or where they come from. Songs usually just sort of come to me in little bits here and there. I am always hunting and gathering little song ideas. My goal lyrically has always been to strike a balance between impressionistic//plain & direct songwriting styles.

MD: Have you begun thinking of what your next album may be sound like and if so what direction are you thinking about going in?

MT: I feel like we’ve finally, after 3 records, developed a sound that we can really stand behind. If I have things my way, future records will become simultaneously more focused & more exotic.

MD: As an artist, what’s your opinion on streaming sites like Spotify and Rdio?

MT: I do not use them. They make it hard for bands like mine to make any money at all. Beyond all that, I think the entire experience is dull & in poor taste. My music isn’t meant to be heard that way.

MD: What music inspired you most during the recording of Screens?

MT: I remember listening to & referencing The Cure Disintegration, Elvis Costello Imperial Bedroom, Joy Division Closer, & Kraftwerk Radio Activity.

MD: What five albums are inspiring you theses days?

MT: Lately I’ve been stuck on John Lennon “Walls and Bridges” Rolling Stones “Between the Buttons”, Laurie Anderson “Big Science” Nico “Desertshore” & Lou Reed “New York”

http://www.fat-cat.co.uk/site/artists/forest-fire