Photo Credit: Katie Hovland
If you’ve been listening to legitimate rock n roll at any point in the last twenty something years, odds are you have listened to Local H. The two-man fury of this band has gone unmatched over two decades and have continuously released consistent music during that time. I had the opportunity to speak with Local H’s commander in chief, Scott Lucas, asking him a few things from ‘Buzz Bins’, proving your worth, and a thing or two about their new record Hey, Killer.
Aaron: First off, congratulations on the 25th anniversary. I’ve been a fan since 1996 when I first heard “Bound For The Floor” when I was 13. Wow I feel old. When you look back at those MTV days, how do you feel?
Scott: Oh, you feel old do you? You know, we were never really an MTV band. I don’t recall our videos getting played all that much. We got to be on 120 Minutes a couple of times. Got to interview with Matt Pinfield. That was cool. But we were never in the “Buzz Bin”. So I don’t really have a whole lot of affection for “those days”. Just call me an anti-nostalgiast.
Aaron: In my review of Hey, Killer I talked about how it feels hungry and confident, almost like a debut record. Is that just angst? What is the real over all theme for the album?
Scott: Ahhh, the “A” word. In a way, it IS a debut record. Our third debut record. Not so much that it’s a different band. But it’s another chance to prove yourself, I guess. But we’ve never been the kind of band that achieved a level of success that afforded us the luxury of resting on our laurels. We’ve always had to prove our worth in some way. You can look at that as a pain in the ass –or you can treat it like an opportunity.
Aaron: The lyrics of “The Last Picture Show In Zion”. I kinda took it as a poke at the mainstream alternative rock scene, am I wrong? What exactly is that song about!?
Scott: You can take it as a poke against all these fake poser blues bands. Sure. But at the same time, it’s also a blues song. You can also take the title literally –it really is about my hometown movie theater closing down. But there’s also stuff in there about the death of culture and how that relates to the death of small towns. There’s also stuff in there about the existence of God. Or the lack of God.
Aaron: Being in the business for over 25 years, you guys have seen it’s ups and downs. From downloads taking over CD sales, streaming services taking over downloads, and this vinyl revolution yet Local H still continues to be consistent with releases and touring. What’s you secret?
Scott: The secret is this: I never even thought about all that shit until you mentioned it.
Aaron: What are you listening to these days?
Scott: Angel Olsen. Twin Peaks. Muuy Biien. Old Metallica. I may be crazy, but I really dig that new Mumford & Sons song.
Aaron: You recorded Hey, Killer partially at Steve Albini’s studio. It’s not the first time you’ve recorded there right? Do you think you’ll ever work with Albini himself?
Scott: I did a solo record with The Married Men in the “A” room. I don’t know. I guess I’d love to work with Steve someday, but I’ve been way too intimidated by him. He seems nice every time I’ve met him, though —so, maybe I’m just being a pussy.
Aaron: After recording eight albums with Local H, are there any songs you think you will never play live?
Scott: Never? No.
Aaron: While on the subject, when will “Pancake Breakfast” see an official release, haha?
Scott: A. I didn’t realize we were on the subject. B. I don’t get it.
Aaron: Can we expect any surprise cover tunes on this tour? If you are taking any requests, do some Superdrag! Always dreamed of you guys touring together!
Scott: We did some shows together –what? Ten years ago? Not too long ago. I’ve always liked Superdrag.
Aaron: With 25 years in a band and 8 albums, you have more experience than most of today’s mainstream rock acts combined, do you have any words of advice for any kids out there who are thinking about putting a band together?
Scott: Just be yourself and don’t listen to anybody’s advice. So, I guess what I’m saying is ignore me and be just like 30 Seconds To Mars.
Aaron: Lastly, I just want to say thanks for not only taking the time to answer these questions, but for being part of my life. I’ve been listening to you guys since before I could drive, that’s half of my life! I really don’t know how to say thanks for that without sounding creepy, but thank you for being Local H and keeping rock n roll alive!
Scott: Ewwww. Stop being creepy.