S2 Ep5: The Tubs - Owen Williams on Joanna Gruesome, Ex-Vöid and his book Atrocity Exhibitions
Summary
Owen Williams, guitarist and songwriter, joins Paul Richards to discuss his prolific career in British indie music, from founding member of Joanna Gruesome to frontman of The Tubs. The conversation covers his musical upbringing, the dissolution of previous bands, and his recent signing to Merge Records. Williams also reflects on his new book, *Atrocity Exhibitions*, which explores grief and the TikTok underworld, alongside the release of The Tubs' third album, *Hard Life*.
Topics discussed
Introduction to Owen Williams and The Tubs
Reunion and early childhood memories
Musical heritage: parents' bands and folk roots
Growing up in a musical household and school influences
Discovering indie, country, and first band Everiste Galois
Forming Joanna Gruesome and early touring experiences
Meeting Lan, university, and the band's rise
Career decisions, DIY ethos, and financial precarity
Modern band admin and self-management strategies
Joanna Gruesome's legacy and the concept of selling out
Lan's departure, grief, and the band's dissolution
Reuniting with Lan to form X Void
Forming The Tubs and balancing multiple bands
Influences: Felt, Lawrence, and the EP 'Names'
Album 'Cotton Crown': cover art and themes of grief
Writing the book 'Atrocity Exhibitions' and TikTok
Book promotion, tour dates, and upcoming events
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