Tiny Moving Parts [Interview]
With their new album Celebrate (reviewed in full on TMMP here), Tiny Moving Parts are flying the flag for manically complex, yet still emotionally evocative rock. With that in mind, I chatted to TMP vocalist/guitarist Dylan Mattheisen about Celebrate, motivation, golf, and more…
Your new album Celebrate is out now. Aside from excitement, what are you guys feeling right now?
I mean, excitement is the main thing we’re feeling [laughs]! We put a lot of time and effort into making this record, and are stoked for people to hear it.
Lyrically, Celebrate is pretty dark. Which life experiences shaped that side of what you do?
I’ve always enjoyed writing about life in general. I feel as I’m getting older, I’m realizing how much I miss certain people, things, moments, etc. When writing lyrics, it tends to just come out naturally and I feel it’s a way to help cope with it.
Keeping your head up and enjoying the ride is the main thing I always have to remember. I feel that’s what makes you have an overall great life!
Which non-musical pastimes get you refreshed when you need a break?
We love to golf! It’s a great way to clear your head, and just have some fun with friends hitting the ball.
How do you want to see the world change?
It’d be cool if everyone was nicer to each other. No more bullies!
What’s the best advice you’ve ever received about pursuing a career in music? Who gave you that advice?
“Go out there and just have fun!”
I know my parents have said that cliché line many times to me, but I’ve realized it is very important. When things get stressful on the road or I hit a writer’s block, I just step back and think about why I’m doing this. I love what I do, and I get to do it with my best friends.
Your music is pretty hard to categorise; what’s the least accurate genre label you’ve ever been stuck with?
Hardcore. I don’t feel like we’re a hardcore band.
What’s your favourite musical memory?
Touring Europe with Modern Baseball and Into It Over It was an incredible time. We never thought we’d ever tour a different country; we had a blast!
In the video for Headache, you run through a whole range of bucket-list items. If the budget for that video had been completely unlimited, what other things would you have added in there?
Go to Australia and cliff jump! Every time I see a picture of people doing that, I’m always like “WOAH! That looks so fun!”
Is there anything else you want to talk about?
I’m all good here! Thank you for the interview!
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