Nitzer Ebb interview

Nitzer Ebb gave the good folks over at the DM convention this interview, that we’re now publishing for you all to enjoy. Nitzer Ebb are playing in Berlin on the 9th of june as part of the international Depeche Mode convention.

For more details go to www.blackswarm.de.

Hi guys, on your website it says that the work on the new album has been completed, but it also says that you are still searching for a satisfactory solution for the upcoming release. What makes finding a solution so difficult?

The changes in the industry are what makes the process more time consuming. As we all know, the traditional “record industry” is dead, and this presents artists with a large amount of choices in how to release their work. Each artist may release material in a completley umique way, working with a unique system and organisation. It takes time to construct a unique operation that meets the needs of each individual band or artist. There are simply more choices and methods to consider for today’s artists. For many artists, the logical conclusion is to do it themselves. Obviously nobody needs record labels any more, or the overpriced, incompetence that generally came with them. Artists now have to adjust to spending more and more time running their own business. There’s more to do on an individual level. It all takes time to accomplish.

A question that many fans of Nitzer Ebb, especially in Germany would ask: Why did you separate from MUTE after such a long time being part of the label under Daniel Miller.

That would be a question for Mute really. We’ve been in close contact with Mute since the 06 re-union tour began, and subsequently through the recording and completion of the album. We have a great respect for Daniel and Mute, and love working with them. Daniel was the first person we sent the new music to. From the outside though, it looks as though Mute, as an independent, has been swallowed by a corporation, and no longer operates, or is able to operate, as it used to I.E. as an independent record label. Again, this comes down to changes in the industry. Times change, and things move on.

Could you already tell us the name of the new album ?

We are currently working on the initial stages of the release. When this process reaches it’s peak, all details and information will be released, including the name.

Where did you record the album and with whom did you work together ?

We recorded the album in Los Angeles. It was mainly the band, (Bon, Douglas and Jason), working together to write and produce the album, with some assistance from John O. Jagz Kooner mixed the album.

In which direction, sound wise, is the album going to be? What can the fans expect of the new Nitzer Ebb album?

In keeping with the re-union, we wanted to retain a true essence of NE. On some tracks this entailed going back to the roots of the band, and getting back to a basic, uncomplicated approach. On the other hand, time passes, and we grow as individuals. On some tracks, that required expanding the musical boundaries whilst staying true to the core sound of NE. Overall, we are very happy with the result. We think the existing Ebb fans will be as well.

One the website you also state that you are working on various projects until the release of the album. What are the projects about?

All the band members have individual projects outside if NE. For my part (BH), I continue to work with the band Maven, work as a musical producer/writer/collaborator for various artists, and continue to compose music for film/TV/theatre etc.

How did you feel being together on stage as Nitzer Ebb again after such a long break?

It feels great. On stage, in the studio, and working on creative ideas for the release of NE products. The working relationship is the best it has ever been. The break was very valuable, each individual was able to go off and gain experience and knowledge that has been bought back to NE with great effect. I think NE is much more fresh and inventive because of the break.

You have been making electronical music since 1982 and Nitzer Ebb, DAF, the Krupps and FRONT242 are considered as one of the pioneers of the EBM movement. Are you aware about your significance in music history?

In some ways, yes. When we formed NE, we wanted to do something different. We had ideas and values that we felt needed to be voiced and represented. History shows that we were not alone or misguided about that. Many of the ideas and approaches we put forward have become accepted and commonplace now. One doesn’t always get credit for it, but we are aware of the ideas of ours that have been influential.

The music industry has changed significantly over the last years. How do you deal with the new market situation?

Adaptability, basically. We use our intelligence, perception, and instincts, and look to work with a great team of people who we can formulate new ideas with, and get great advice from.

Do you regret the long break?

Not at all. The break was necessary,and has resulted in a much more fresh and inventive NE.

What did you do in the mean time?

(BH) -Started a band, produced records, composed scores, went back to college, and grew up a bit.

Last year Alan Wilder published an open and very honest letter ( http://www.side-line.com/interviews_comments.php?id=29640_0_
16_0_C ) directed to the music industry, in which he is criticizing compressed music and the lack of ideas of the music industry. How do you feel as an artist about this situation and how do you deal with this problem, which now also affects you.

Alan is absolutely correct in his observations. It’s not just limited to music, across the entire spectrum, we face the possibility of the cultural equivalent to global warming. In a rush to consume more and more disposable product, we could well end up with a barren and lifeless landscape. As with so many things, it comes down to a question of individual responsibilty. What kind of world do we want to live in? If we want everything to be free, fast and disposable, then that will have it’s consequences. Unsustainable means exactly what it says. As in life, so it is in art. If you value something, then stick to those values. As artists, that is how we have to deal with the situation. Do not let anybody advise you that it is a good idea to give away your work. Make that decision yourself. Do not let anybody advise you that it is a good idea to expect to get everything for free – it is unsustainable. Place a value on art, (your own, and others), and hold to it.

So far the only confirmed Nitzer Ebb concert in Germany will take place on the 9th of June at the international Depeche Mode Convention of the Universe in Berlin. You are one of the few Depeche Mode support acts that managed to played themselves into the audience’s hearts. To what do you attribute your success to?

Quite simply I think it has a lot to do with honesty. Say what you mean, mean what you say, and play from your heart. DM and NE are very much alike in that respect. There are other factors of course, geographically – (ESSEX!!!), stylistically etc etc.

Can the fans already expect songs from the new album?

Yes indeed. There’ll be a selection of new tracks amongst the favourites.

Can one expect a new tour at the end of the year or does it depend on the release of the album?´

One can certainly expect a tour. The exact timing is to be decided.

You have been friends with Depeche Mode since years. Regardless of that fact: how do you see Depeche Mode’s significance in music history nowadays?

DM have rightly reached a level that few bands can hope to achieve. Because of their individuality, and commitment to following their own calling, they have gained an acceptance and respect that has transcended genre, time and trends. Their main significance is that they are successful by virtue of their individuality. They are a great example to any aspiring artist.

What do you think about the new Depeche Mode album?

The last couple of albums are seeing a return to form for DM.

Are you planning to see Depeche Mode on the 10th of June at the Olympiastadion?

Yes. We’ll be there.