Animal Liberation Orchestra's Steve Adams

 
Jimmy Leslie ,Oct 11, 2007
 
 

ALO improvises a lot onstage. Why did you tighten things up so much on record?
We generally play it safer in the studio—we’re very meticulous about having tight arrangements, good-feeling grooves, and no clams. I’m less likely to go for something off the cuff on a recording session. “Lady Loop” stands out as an exception. I was loose—you can hear me letting go. I was going for a Sly & the Family Stone-era Larry Graham eighth-note groove, accenting the offbeats. Since there are only a few chords looping, I was able to explore the tones of each in different registers. The track itself is a steady build, and everything gets crazier as it progresses. That’s my most playful line on the record.

 How do you go about establishing a good feel when playing with new people?
The trick is in finding balance. Different drummers bring out different things in me. I just do it by listening very carefully and playing accordingly.

Before Dave Brogan rejoined in 2002, ALO had a few different drummers. How did that impact your playing style?
With Dave, we learned that it’s good for me to play toward the front of the beat. Our previous drummer [and former BP staffer] Elton Bradman was a pusher, so I’d lay back and be just fine. Since Dave is more laid back, it’s best for me to push in order to keep the energy flowing.

 

CAN BE HEARD ON

Animal Liberation Orchestra, Roses & Clover [Brushfire, 2007]

CURRENTLY SPINNING

Fleetwood Mac, Mystery to Me [Reprise, 1973]
“Great musicianship and songwriting, wonderful sounds top to bottom, and impeccable groove!”

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