Overview
The Vines are a long way from their Rishikesh days. The reformed, Craig Nicholls-run, Sydney staple is back with a new double album Wicked Nature — their sixth studio album — and two new members. Drummer Lachlan West and bassist Tim John have joined Nicholls for the latest reincarnation of The Vines, a band that quite simply refuses to surrender. Wicked Nature has been released independently and was produced in part by Nicholls, indicating an authentic sound uninfluenced by commercial pressures.
After a three year hiatus from any touring The Vines announced today they will return to the stage for an exclusive one off show to perform their new material — in the carpark of Enmore's Vic on the Park. Creating a bonafide ruckus over the October long weekend, The Vines will play a free show on Sunday, October 5 from 1–6pm.
Considering Wicked Nature has been in the holding tank for two years, The Vines are pretty keen for fans to become acquainted with the new sound. We spoke to bass player Tim John about recording Wicked Nature, joining the band with fellow newbie Lachlan West, and what's in store for the future of The Vines.
What were you and Lachlan up to before joining the Vines?
Lachlan and I grew up on the Central Coast, NSW, and started playing in bands at 10 and 12. We met at a Strokes concert in 2006 and have played in a different bands together since then. Can't seem to get rid of each other.
What made you decide to join The Vines and work with Craig Nicholls?
We're both fans of the band, when the opportunity came up to rehearse with Craig we were both really keen to do it. The three of us have the same influences, and it just worked when we played together.
What are your favourite tracks of Wicked Nature and why?
'Killin' the Planet' — This song has a cool message about the environment, and musically this was our chance to pay homage to The Beatles.
'Truth' — This song was quite minimal in rehearsals for the album and it just came to life when we were recording it. Lyrics are my favourite on the album, sound very personal and you can hear that when he sings it.
Wicked Nature is an independent release and produced in part by Nicholls. Can you tell us a bit about the recording process for this double album?
We started in mid-2012 rehearsing the songs, and went into the studio with Paul McKercher. We are a big fan of the albums Paul's produced and he was incredible to work with. After we finished that session, Craig had written ten new songs he was excited about; we decided to record and mix them in five days. We had no intention of it being a double album, but were happy with how it all turned out so decided to release every song we recorded. Also the first time Craig had taken on the producer hat; he did a great job.
Wicked Nature was reportedly recorded in 2012, despite the fact it's just been released recently. Have you started working on your next record already?
At the rate Craig writes songs we'll be back in the studio soon. We're concentrating on playing some shows and get the chance to play Wicked Nature songs live, as well as some of the favourites.
Will you be touring nationally for this album? If so, when is it likely to kick off?
Nothing we can announce right now, but definitely before the end of the year we'll be playing shows.
Finally, how are you guys influencing the new sound of the Vines? What new direction would you like to take it in?
The Vines will always be Craig's band, so we just hope to bring something new to the table. Part of the charm of Craig's songs is he's not influenced by what's happening right now, he just loves written songs, so you're either a fan or you're not. I feel that people can appreciate Craig as a songwriter now, despite everything him and The Vines has been through, he's proved how dedicated he is.
Catch The Vines at Enmore's Vic on the Park on Sunday, October 5 from 1–6pm. Entry is free, first come, first served.