311: Brian Cook (Russian Circles / Botch): It's Not What You Have But How You Play It
Summary
Host Jeremy Boehm interviews Brian Cook of Russian Circles, Botch, and These Arms Are Snakes about his new album *Nine* and creative process. Cook discusses his solo project’s origins in noise and acoustic experimentation, reflecting on how he avoids the pitfalls of public feedback. The conversation traces his musical journey from early influences like Harry Chapin and They Might Be Giants to his first Fugazi concert and the cultural impact of Nirvana’s rise.
Topics discussed
Sponsors and show introduction
Handling feedback and objectivity in music
Songwriting process and final touches
Solo record inspiration and production
Early life and moving to Tacoma
First musical memories and They Might Be Giants
Rolling Stones vs Beatles influence debate
First concert experience with Fugazi
Discovering punk and Nirvana's impact
Band t-shirts and merch culture
Learning bass and forming first bands
Devil Dog Distro sponsorship
Early bands and local scene dynamics
Booking shows and recording demos
Studio experiences and avoiding demo-itis
First release and vinyl collecting
First European tour and gear struggles
Touring with The Weakerthans
Sponsors: Iodine Records and Holy Mountain
Building community relevance and conclusion
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