Start Listening To: Video Age

We caught up with Video Age and spoke to them about their latest album Pleasure Line.

Photographs by Alex H. Payne

There’s a real positivity to the record that feels much-needed in 2020. Do you intend to write such happy music?

Overall, we definitely shoot for optimism over negativity. When we’re writing a song and feeling wistful or gloomy, we use it as an opportunity to turn that feeling around. 

I’m almost reminded of Michael Jackson on the track ‘Blushing’. Is there an intentional throwback to these sounds?

We were listening to his sister Janet Jackson’s album “Control” a bunch in the van. We loved the production. 

Who are some of your biggest influences as artists?

The B52’s, Ray Davies, Martin Newell, Joni Mitchel, Paul Mcartney, David Bowie, Prince, Allen Toussaint

Can you tell me a bit more about the themes behind this album?

Romance, commitment, passion, comradery, 

With everything cancelled and no shows on the horizon, how would you describe your live shows?

We like to keep it live, we haven’t used any samples in the past, but who knows. 

How has your experience been as a band during the global pandemic?

We are doing our best to stay home and keep everyone safe and healthy. We really appreciate that we can release new music, especially during such a difficult and uncertain time. 

The production on this album is lush; can you tell me a bit more about your recording process and how you recorded this album?

Thanks! We got together with our bandmates Nick and Duncan for about 10 days of recording last December. We set ourselves up in Ross’s living room with a handful of synthesizers, a couple drum machines, 2 guitars and a bass, and we produced the album together as a band. All the instruments were recorded direct-in, no amps or amp modelers. We started each song on an 8 track tape machine. When the tape was full, we would move to the computer for additional overdubs, vocals and mixing. Recording this album was a lot of fun! With enough snacks and coffee to keep us going, we just got in the room and let the music flow.

If you could work with any producer who would it be and why?

Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, the funkiest songwriting/production duo. It would be a dream come true.

Winspear are a great label. What’s it been like working with them?

Winspear is great! We are so lucky to be working with such amazing people. This was our first experience making a record with a budget and a deadline. We liked the structure and support that this format gave us. 

What is your favourite song to perform?

Lover Surreal 

What are some of your favourite releases from 2020 so far?

HAIM “Women in Music Part III” 

What is one message you would give to your fans?

Stay safe and be well, support female artists and artists of color. 

Thank you for your time. Would you like to add anything?

Thanks for having us!