Interview Stellastarr*

are about to embark on a full tour of the UK. They released their self-titled debut last year to much acclaim, and toured with Jane’s Addiction. They are releasing single ‘My Coco’ on 23rd February, so we spoke to Arthur Kremer from the band.

Are you pleased with the way you have been received in the UK?
Yes very pleased. In general they seem to be very much on top of new music and are very much in support of up and coming bands. They encourage ingenuity and turn away formulaic bull shit. By the way can I curse in this?

What was it like supporting Jane’s Addiction?
It was wonderful on many levels. It was a great learning experience. We got to see how a band of that scale performs their operations as well as playing on huge stages in front so many people. That was something we had to get used to. Your equipment sounds totally different in a 5000 seat arena as opposed to the 400-600 seat places we have been used.

Do you think the so-called ‘New York scene’ has helped or hindered your progress as a band?
I think it did a little of both. I guess helped more than hindered.

What would you say was your career highlight so far?
I don’t want to come of sounding like an asshole but I feel like there were many highlights. The SXSW was huge for us as well as going on The Carson Daly Show for the first time. Also touring with the Raveonettes (they are beautiful people)and just all the wonderful people we’ve met along the way, who helped us tremendously. Now I feel like I am giving an Oscar speech. I hoped I remembered to thank Jesus and baby Jesus…

Who would you cite as your main influences (musical or otherwise)?
I can’t pin down a main influence. It is no one and everyone at the same time. We live in a place (NYC especially) with so much sensory input, that it is hard to narrow down to one main influence. I also like to think that I learn and take something away even from stuff I don’t like…not necessary music. I guess New York and all that it has to offer has been my main influence in the past ten years.

You’re touring the UK this February, what can we expect from your live show?
I don’t want to set up any restrictions and/or guidelines. So expect nothing and you’ll will hopefully be pleasantly surprised.

What do you hope to achieve from 2004?
Is any one working on the flying car? Cause I want one. Also colonization and firm defeat of the elusive ‘Moon People’.