Hidden Hospitals Talking EP002
There are few bands out there who can stand alone and survive without the backing of a record label, independent or otherwise, but Hidden Hospitals aren’t just surviving they are thriving. With the recent release of ‘EP002’ they have once again proved that they are masters of the sublime their songs portraying a depth and philosophy many strive for but few achieve. I managed to catch up with them in an attempt to understand a little of their life view and what drives them.
” It would be putting us back in the game that survives only by selling units, and we believe there is a path higher than that yet to be discovered. We don’t know what that path is just yet, either. We do know that the antique label model needs to die entirely before something new can grow…and we are part of that movement.”
OK so I’m already sold on your music and absolutely love EP002 but I’ve got to ask why the name? Given that your band name and logo is full of symbolism is there some super-secret coding in your choice of title for the EP or is it just because it’s your second release?
“Though both EPs are curated, and sequenced with care – they simply aren’t fully developed stories worthy of a title. The ride is too short to create a full span of peaks and valleys, hence, a proper full length record. We’ve named them serially and with color. I believe this affords them to be void of influential imagery, and the human element. It’s a system we’ve adopted, and will continue. “
Was releasing the album independently a deliberate choice? Record companies must surely be lining up to sign you?
“Record companies are not lining up to sign us. Labels are quirky in that they gravitate toward what they already know what to do with (read: bands that already sound like xxx) because it minimizes the risk in spending thousands to develop a new signing. We, on the other hand, are developed already. Not fully grown, no, but developed. Its no fault to Hidden Hospitals that each of us have come from a past of working with independent (and major) labels. This works in our favor, as well as I believe it to close some doors. Of course a rad signing bonus would help things now, and knowing that a recording budget was already in place for 10 months from now when it’s time to record again, and knowing that there is a marketing team working your release and getting out in front of the world…but with each of those things comes confines that don’t suit us. It would be putting us back in the game that survives only by selling units, and we believe there is a path higher than that yet to be discovered. We don’t know what that path is just yet, either. We do know that the antique label model needs to die entirely before something new can grow…and we are part of that movement. The seeds are planted with independent artists fulfilling their needs without being locked into a label’s usual contract. That is proof that there is a better, and progressive way to sustain.”
The new video for ‘The Absence Of Emotion’ is very atmospheric was it fun to film? Do you enjoy doing video shoots? All of your official videos seem to have quite an intimate feel to them is this something you aim for when filming?
“Contrast is key. We tried to not overstretch our needs with each video. Like the EPs, the videos will grow with us.”
You have described your music as: “Places revealed to those seeking resuscitation, rejuvenation, decompression, atonement.” For the less philosophical among us would you care to elaborate?
“Consider your train ride home from work wearing headphones, reading a book. Though crowded and surrounded by dozens of others in a similar capacity, that is your own time. Your own personal way of decompressing – right then, and there. That space you’re sitting in – that book you’re reading, that music you’re listening to… it is uniquely yours. In that, its hidden. To most, just a seat on a train – just an afternoon commute. To you, possibly a vital portion of your day.”
You’ve worked with J. Hall on both of your EP’s has he had a lot of influence on your music? Given how great both of your EP’s are this has to be a match made in musical heaven right?
“J is a key ingredient to this band. If we aren’t making recordings with him, we aren’t making recordings. He (really) is 50% of why this band exists to the world the way that it does.”
I know you did a tour of America alongside the release of your first EP any chance of another tour? If so is there any way I can persuade you to hop over to the UK for a few shows?
“We don’t need persuasion, we need a catalyst. We’d love being there – but the time needs to be right.”
So what is next for Hidden Hospitals in 2013?
“I hope you’ll see Hidden Hospitals growing into the next suitable form in 2013. We know what that form is, and we’re now figuring out how to wear it correctly.”
I think that this band have, whether consciously or not, chosen a difficult road to travel but I hope that they find the journey as fulfilling as their music is to their legion of fans. Their disestablishmentarianism attitude and almost spiritual philosophies are evident in their music and the imagery they surround themselves in and raise them from the mundane into the lofty realms of true brilliance. ‘EP002’ is available now.