M83: The New Gay Interview

Previously an electronic duo, the French band M83 became a one man band (with numerous guests) with a markedly rock feel. I recently reviewed their new album Saturday= Youth, where I commented on the blissful feel of the collection. I spoke with M83 mastermind Anthony Gonzalez when he was in Spain last week, just minutes before the band was about to take the stage. After apologizing profusely for his accent, (which is charming) Gonzalez answered a few questions for The New Gay.

TNG Craig: What is the significance of the M83 band name?

Anthony Gonzalez: When I was 17, I was looking to take the name of a galaxy. It fits with the first version of the band, when the music was more electronic.

TNG: Who are your influences?

AG: The music of 4AD and the Cocteau Twins, Kate Bush and some French electronic music.

TNG: What can you tell us about your lyrics?

AG: The words mostly come from my imagination. My brother (Yann Gonzalez) is a movie director, and he writes some of the lyrics. I am influenced by life and landscapes. Some of the songs you can interpret any way you like. I find writing in English makes the words sound more dreamy, and everything comes from America!

TNG: Speaking of movies, there is a strong cinematic influence in the imagery. I heard that you were inspired by 80’s films.

AG: I love movies about teenagers, like the films of John Hughes and (queer director) Gregg Araki’s Doom Generation and Nowhere. Saturdays=Youth is a collection of songs that’s a tribute to the 80s.

TNG: What type of show we expect at a M83 concert?

I don’t know. It sounds different, more powerful live. More rock. There is a different approach than the album. The shows in Europe have been wonderful and festive/ We’ll be a four piece and there will be a light show.

TNG: How did you find singer Morgan Kibby? She sounds great!

I found her on MySpace! I had a crush on her (ed. Note: English is not Anthony’s first language) and asked her to work with me in L.A, where she’s from, and in France and England.

TNG Thank you such much for speaking to us.

M83 brings its anthemic sound tonight at the Black Cat with School of Seven Bells.