The White Rabbits 'Just Play Music'

© AndrewDrozPalermo

The White Rabbits' Andrew Clark.

Originally from Missouri, the six piece band based out of Brooklyn, NY known as the White Rabbits have grown not only in popularity, but in size as well. Adding their sixth member, Jamie Levinson, brought cohesiveness to the White Rabbits that they were seeking since their previous gathering as a group known as Texas Chainsaw Mass Choir. Named one of the top three bands to play SXSW in 2008 by NME, the White Rabbits' new album encompasses more than any fan could ask for.

Their drummer, Matthew Clark took some time to tell us a little bit about the overwhelming and undeniable energy the band puts forth while they rule the stage; as well as the reasoning behind some of their recent decisions involving the new album. Ending 2009 with their North American Tour that runs throughout November, the band heads out to Europe, Africa and Australia in December and January.

This year, you released your second studio album 'It's Frightening' which you produced with Britt Daniel.  Why did you decide to work with him, and how did he contribute to the album?

We decided to work with him because he's our friend and we wanted to work with someone that is not just a producer. We love albums by artists that work with another artist, like Iggy Pop and David Bowie or Elvis Costello with The Specials or Fripp and Hall. So, we asked him to produce the album and he did a great job, if I can say so myself.

As musicians, how do you think you've evolved from when you recorded your first album to now, that you've released 'It's Frightening'?

We are a lot more travelled for sure. We are all still learning new things and thinking of new ways to improve the songs we have and the songs we plan on writing in the future. You just can't be neutral on a moving train.

When people talk about your live show, it is almost certain that the energy you guys have on stage will be spoken about. Did this just come naturally to you guys, or was it something you consciously wanted to achieve when you got together as a group?

That's just how we play music. For us it comes down to caring about the songs and just having a good time on stage in the hope that the audience relates to what we are doing, and has a good time at the show.

How has your current tour been going so far?  What can your audience expect if they come out to one of the shows?

They can expect just six people playing music.

As a band, what challenges have you encountered with the state that the music industry is in?

Sure. But the times are changing and culture is changing and moving forward. We just happen to be in a band during this time of transition. So I could say something about record sales or some bullshit but that's not looking at the bigger picture. I don't think our band would be were it is if people weren't stealing our albums. I'm sure there are a lot of bands that would agree even, reluctantly.

How do you guys manage to achieve such a unique sound while still being able to appeal to the masses?

Well, we just try to make the type of songs that we want to hear then hope for the best.

It has been 5 years since the formation of White Rabbits, what have you learned since?

Nothing.