Neu Get To Know… Strange Ranger
Following the release of their new boundary-pushing album ‘Pure Music’, Strange Ranger’s Fiona Woodman answers some quickfire questions.
Hello and welcome to DIY’s introducing feature, Get To Know… which aims to get you a little bit closer to the buzziest acts that have been catching our eye as of late, and working out what makes them tick.
Hopping across the pond, this week we’re joined by Strange Ranger - a New York via Philly quartet who have been making music since 2016, but whose recent projects mark a new chapter for the band. Their latest album, ‘Pure Music’, is a smorgasbord of house beats, experimental production and psychedelic synths, moving away from the indie rock of previous outings to something decidedly less prescriptive.
To celebrate the release of ‘Pure Music’ (out now via Fire Talk) we catch up with the band’s Fiona Woodman to talk influences, memories, and the music that moves her.
What's your earliest musical memory?
One of my earliest memories is of my mom blasting PJ Harvey full volume throughout the apartment we lived in, probably listening to 'Rid Of Me'. That album scared the shit out of 4 year old me. Or my dad showing me 'Moonage Daydream' - I was obsessed with Bowie as a kid and would have dreams about marrying him all the time.
Who were some artists that inspired you when you were just starting out (and why?)
I joined the band in 2017, I think? Back then we loved Alex G, Modest Mouse, My Bloody Valentine. That was right around [the time] when I discovered 'Ghosts of the Great Highway' by Sun Kil Moon - loved that album. They all capture melancholy, but make it rock.
What's your worst musical habit?
Not being able to help myself from singing along to every song that comes on, but never knowing the words.
If you could have written one song from history, what would it be?
'Hejira' by Joni Mitchell - she's my day one.
If people could take one thing away from your music, what would it be?
You know when you hear a beautiful harmony or swell of strings and you literally get goosebumps/feel breathless/feel full of awe that music can inspire such a physical response? That's what I want for people listening. That's the best feeling in the world.
In school, what would you have been voted 'Most Likely To...'?
'Most likely to join a band'... like everyone else who has done [a Get To Know interview], I would imagine!
Musically or otherwise, what are you most looking forward to this year?
I think we're gonna tour in Europe for the first time.
We're coming round for dinner - what are you cooking?
My chocolate chip cookies. Isaac told me once that if I started selling them, I could make big money.
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