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The Aaron Clift Experiment

Interviewed by Gary Hill
Interview with Aaron Clift of The Aaron Clift Experiment from 2015
MSJ:
You guys recently released a new album.  How is it similar to your previous work?

Both Lonely Hills (our debut album, released in 2012) and Outer Light, Inner Darkness (our new album, released in 2015) put a strong emphasis on melodic writing, arrangements that are dynamic and intricate, and detailed lyrics.

MSJ:
How does it differ?
The biggest change with the new album is that it’s is a true band effort.  I wrote all of the music and arrangements on Lonely Hills, but all the songs on Outer Light, Inner Darkness had co-writing from Eric Gutierrez (our guitarist), and some had co-writing by bassist, Devin North.  The end result is a set of songs that are more diverse, energetic, and complex than anything we’ve done before.
MSJ:
What's ahead for you?
In 2016, we plan to play more shows outside of Austin and start writing new music.  Beyond 2016, we’re looking to play internationally, especially at progressive rock festivals.
MSJ:
What was the last CD you bought and/or what have you been listening to lately?
The last album I bought was Within the Clamor of Voices by The Alea Dilemma.  This is a progressive rock power trio based in Kansas City, Missouri founded by former Aaron Clift Experiment guitarist, Danny Brymer.  I’m really impressed by the excellent music on this album.  It’s definitely one of the best albums of 2015.  Check it out!

Lately, I’ve also been listening a lot to Tower of Power’s live album, Soul Vaccination, and The Ting Tings’ latest album, Super Critical.  I’m a huge fan of classic R&B, funk, and retro-flavored pop music, so these albums hit that sweet spot for me.

MSJ:
What about the last concert you attended for your enjoyment?
I go to several concerts a month, so it’s hard for me to keep track of all of the shows I’ve been to recently.  My favorite concert of 2015 was Zappa Plays Zappa.  Besides the fact that all the guys in the band are incredible musicians, I’m also impressed with how the band manages to play a reverent tribute to Frank Zappa’s music and still inject a lot of new life and energy into the songs.  If you get a chance to see these guys live, do it!
MSJ:
Are there any closing thoughts you would like to get out there?
Check out clips from our new album, Outer Light, Inner Darkness at www.aaronclift.com.  We’ve got a really cool music video for the album’s lead single, “Kissed by the Sun.”
MSJ: This interview is available in book format (hardcover and paperback) in Music Street Journal: 2016  Volume 1 at lulu.com/strangesound.
 
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