Threesome interview with Petar Živić and Uroš Milkić
As a write for a psych zine I don’t always take all the
opportunities to talk to bands from every genre like I should. So, in another attempt to avoid becoming
pigeonholed as a writer, or closeminded as listener, this is an article about
some surf music. I love instrumental
surf as much as the next guy, actually scratch that. I like instrumental rock a lot more than most
people. But even I have to admit that
when you’re listening to surf in its truest form, it can get a little
boring. It’s gets a little repetitive
and starts to kind of jumble together, there’s just not enough energy or
cohesiveness to carry it for an extended amount of time. That’s where bands like Threesome come in to
the picture. Threesome brings the
surging energy of punk and garage rock to the surf arena, combining them into
some sort of super-Voltron to create a devastating thee-pronged instrumental
attack on the psyche! Iron legs of
devastation are manned by drummer Jovana Petrović, easily propelling the giant
robot across a decimated landscape of destruction and havoc. The brain of the jangling automation is
bassist Petar Živić, whose massive bass sounds like the thundering of Thor’s
hammer echoing from the heavens, laying the groundwork and creating traction
from which the entire engine of brutality is built, while guitarist Uroš Milkić
lays utter waste to whatever’s left standing in their way! If I were to nominate one band to repel
hordes of angry Kaiju at our doorstep, it would be Threesome. There’s a dark, haunting undertone to the
music of Threesome as well though, showcasing some of the trademark horror
influences that have permeated the genre for so long, but revealing a deeper
understanding of where the meaning and energy of that whole movement came from
in the first place with their propulsive energy and explosive songwriting,
allowing it all to coalesce into these beautiful harmonies and melodies that
ebb and breathe like tidal wave pools in a sleepy summer sunset. There’s no way my words will do the majesty
of Threesome’s music any justice, so instead just click the link under these
words and let the band speak for themselves…
opportunities to talk to bands from every genre like I should. So, in another attempt to avoid becoming
pigeonholed as a writer, or closeminded as listener, this is an article about
some surf music. I love instrumental
surf as much as the next guy, actually scratch that. I like instrumental rock a lot more than most
people. But even I have to admit that
when you’re listening to surf in its truest form, it can get a little
boring. It’s gets a little repetitive
and starts to kind of jumble together, there’s just not enough energy or
cohesiveness to carry it for an extended amount of time. That’s where bands like Threesome come in to
the picture. Threesome brings the
surging energy of punk and garage rock to the surf arena, combining them into
some sort of super-Voltron to create a devastating thee-pronged instrumental
attack on the psyche! Iron legs of
devastation are manned by drummer Jovana Petrović, easily propelling the giant
robot across a decimated landscape of destruction and havoc. The brain of the jangling automation is
bassist Petar Živić, whose massive bass sounds like the thundering of Thor’s
hammer echoing from the heavens, laying the groundwork and creating traction
from which the entire engine of brutality is built, while guitarist Uroš Milkić
lays utter waste to whatever’s left standing in their way! If I were to nominate one band to repel
hordes of angry Kaiju at our doorstep, it would be Threesome. There’s a dark, haunting undertone to the
music of Threesome as well though, showcasing some of the trademark horror
influences that have permeated the genre for so long, but revealing a deeper
understanding of where the meaning and energy of that whole movement came from
in the first place with their propulsive energy and explosive songwriting,
allowing it all to coalesce into these beautiful harmonies and melodies that
ebb and breathe like tidal wave pools in a sleepy summer sunset. There’s no way my words will do the majesty
of Threesome’s music any justice, so instead just click the link under these
words and let the band speak for themselves…
Listen
while you read: http://www.threesome.bandcamp.com/
while you read: http://www.threesome.bandcamp.com/
© Jelena Petkovic
What is
Threesome’s current lineup? Have you all
made any changes to the lineup since the band started or has it always been
this way?
Threesome’s current lineup? Have you all
made any changes to the lineup since the band started or has it always been
this way?
Petar: No, the band
has had the same lineup since we started playing together, Jovana (drums),
Urosh (guitar) and me, Petar (bass).
has had the same lineup since we started playing together, Jovana (drums),
Urosh (guitar) and me, Petar (bass).
Uroš: It’s just three
of us. We had two keyboard players
before but after a while we decided to continue as trio; less band members,
less problems.
of us. We had two keyboard players
before but after a while we decided to continue as trio; less band members,
less problems.
I love playing
musical connect the dots and the more people that I talk to the more that I
realize a lot of people are in another band, whether that be for creative
reasons or trying to pay the bills. Are
any of you in any other active bands at this point? Have you released any music with anyone else
in the past? If so, can you tell us a
little bit about that?
musical connect the dots and the more people that I talk to the more that I
realize a lot of people are in another band, whether that be for creative
reasons or trying to pay the bills. Are
any of you in any other active bands at this point? Have you released any music with anyone else
in the past? If so, can you tell us a
little bit about that?
Petar: Yes, everyone
has played in different bands before, and also in different genres than surf,
which is the main influence on Threesome’s music. All three of us have released some music as
well, Jovana with Metak Za Zlikovca (jazz, funk, rock), Urosh with Euforia
(punk rock) and me, with Tough Guys Of America (indie pop).
has played in different bands before, and also in different genres than surf,
which is the main influence on Threesome’s music. All three of us have released some music as
well, Jovana with Metak Za Zlikovca (jazz, funk, rock), Urosh with Euforia
(punk rock) and me, with Tough Guys Of America (indie pop).
Uroš: I played guitar
in a punk-rock band Euforia six years ago.
We recorded two albums with a major label here in Serbia and we played a
lot of shows and festivals. I also
played drums in a math-rock band called Cut Self Not; this band probably had
the biggest influence on Threesome’s music.
Stray Dogg is a country-folk band I also played drums in for a year and
a half.
in a punk-rock band Euforia six years ago.
We recorded two albums with a major label here in Serbia and we played a
lot of shows and festivals. I also
played drums in a math-rock band called Cut Self Not; this band probably had
the biggest influence on Threesome’s music.
Stray Dogg is a country-folk band I also played drums in for a year and
a half.
Where are you
originally from?
originally from?
Petar: I was born in
Zadar, Croatia. I’ve lived in Belgrade
for the last twenty-two years.
Zadar, Croatia. I’ve lived in Belgrade
for the last twenty-two years.
Uroš: Belgrade,
Serbia.
Serbia.
What was the local
music scene like when you grew up? Did
you see a lot of shows when you were younger?
Do you feel like the local music scene there played a large role in
forming your musical tastes or the way that you play today?
music scene like when you grew up? Did
you see a lot of shows when you were younger?
Do you feel like the local music scene there played a large role in
forming your musical tastes or the way that you play today?
Petar: There were a
lot of bands and different styles, mostly rock, and I was going to the shows,
but I don’t think it played a large role in my musical taste. They influenced me in some ways, but they’re
not the core of my musical interests.
lot of bands and different styles, mostly rock, and I was going to the shows,
but I don’t think it played a large role in my musical taste. They influenced me in some ways, but they’re
not the core of my musical interests.
Uroš: The hardcore
punk scene was strong here when I was younger.
I liked the energy of the shows, stage diving, singing along… That’s probably the reason why all the bands
I’ve played in since have continued to play faster, stronger and louder music.
punk scene was strong here when I was younger.
I liked the energy of the shows, stage diving, singing along… That’s probably the reason why all the bands
I’ve played in since have continued to play faster, stronger and louder music.
What was your
house like when you were growing up?
Were either your parents or any of your relatives musicians or extremely
involved/interested in music?
house like when you were growing up?
Were either your parents or any of your relatives musicians or extremely
involved/interested in music?
Petar: Not my closest
family, but yes, my older brother and my uncle.
He introduced me to domestic alternative music. That was the start. Eventually, I found my favorite bands through
friends and magazines.
family, but yes, my older brother and my uncle.
He introduced me to domestic alternative music. That was the start. Eventually, I found my favorite bands through
friends and magazines.
Uroš: We lived in a
small apartment and I shared a room with my older brother in the
beginning. He listened to cassettes and
CD’s from bands he liked and played bass in a rock band, so I was hooked on
music from the time I was eight years old.
Other than him, no one played any instruments in my family.
small apartment and I shared a room with my older brother in the
beginning. He listened to cassettes and
CD’s from bands he liked and played bass in a rock band, so I was hooked on
music from the time I was eight years old.
Other than him, no one played any instruments in my family.
What was your
first real exposure to music?
first real exposure to music?
Petar: When I decided
that I wanted to play guitar I asked my friend who lived next door and played
the guitar if I could just give his guitar a little try. I liked it instantly, so I found my uncle’s
old guitar in the basement, cleaned off twenty years of dust, changed the
strings and my musical exposure was permanent.
that I wanted to play guitar I asked my friend who lived next door and played
the guitar if I could just give his guitar a little try. I liked it instantly, so I found my uncle’s
old guitar in the basement, cleaned off twenty years of dust, changed the
strings and my musical exposure was permanent.
Uroš: I mentioned my
brother’s band. I went to their
rehearsals and to some of their gigs.
Every time they took a break I would play around on the guitar or try
and play some beats on the drums.
brother’s band. I went to their
rehearsals and to some of their gigs.
Every time they took a break I would play around on the guitar or try
and play some beats on the drums.
If you had to pick
one defining moment of music, a moment that changed the way you saw everything
and opened your eyes to the infinite possibilities, what would it be?
one defining moment of music, a moment that changed the way you saw everything
and opened your eyes to the infinite possibilities, what would it be?
Petar: The moment I
realized that I could write my own music and not just play other people’s
stuff.
realized that I could write my own music and not just play other people’s
stuff.
Uroš: 1992, Nirvana
playing the song “Lithium” at the MTV Music Awards. I was just nine years old and I saw this live
performance where they played a one riff song with no guitar solos, screamed
loud and broke their equipment at the end.
This was shocking, and until then it was the most fun performance I’d
ever seen. It made me realize that you
didn’t have to be Joe Satriani or Slash to play guitar.
playing the song “Lithium” at the MTV Music Awards. I was just nine years old and I saw this live
performance where they played a one riff song with no guitar solos, screamed
loud and broke their equipment at the end.
This was shocking, and until then it was the most fun performance I’d
ever seen. It made me realize that you
didn’t have to be Joe Satriani or Slash to play guitar.
When did you
decide that you wanted to start writing and performing your own music? What brought that decision about originally?
decide that you wanted to start writing and performing your own music? What brought that decision about originally?
Petar: It wasn’t long
after I started playing. We were
listening to The Ramones; everyone could do something like that, even if it’s
not that simple.
after I started playing. We were
listening to The Ramones; everyone could do something like that, even if it’s
not that simple.
Uroš: I tried to form
a band when I was ten, but no one from my school played any instrument at that
time, so I tried teaching this one guy a few riffs I wrote and we played over a
Casio rhythm machine. It was quite fun,
so I’ve kept doing it until now.
a band when I was ten, but no one from my school played any instrument at that
time, so I tried teaching this one guy a few riffs I wrote and we played over a
Casio rhythm machine. It was quite fun,
so I’ve kept doing it until now.
What was your
first instrument? When did you get it
and who gave it to you?
first instrument? When did you get it
and who gave it to you?
Petar: It was an old
acoustic guitar with palms depicted on the body. My uncle kind of gave it to me, actually, it
was forgotten in the basement and I just took it. My uncle said it was okay if I wanted to play
it…
acoustic guitar with palms depicted on the body. My uncle kind of gave it to me, actually, it
was forgotten in the basement and I just took it. My uncle said it was okay if I wanted to play
it…
Uroš: I had an eye
injury when I was nine and after getting an operation and spending some time in
a hospital, I had to stay home for one more month where there was less light
around. That’s when my parents bought me
an acoustic guitar and I played it twenty four-seven.
injury when I was nine and after getting an operation and spending some time in
a hospital, I had to stay home for one more month where there was less light
around. That’s when my parents bought me
an acoustic guitar and I played it twenty four-seven.
What led to the
formation of the band and when exactly was that?
formation of the band and when exactly was that?
Petar: It was the end
of 2009. We wanted to play something
different, something that we’d never played before; instrumental surf.
of 2009. We wanted to play something
different, something that we’d never played before; instrumental surf.
Uroš: I had these new
surf riffs and the band I was playing in didn’t want to play that kind of
music, soon after we disbanded. So, in
the summer of 2009 I went to Amsterdam to visit my good friend who was studying
at the SAE Institute at the time. He had
a two hour studio session for his exam, so I played a new song I had
written. First the drum tracks, then
bass and guitar, it was the first version of our song “First Wave”. I sent it to Jovana and Petar, and as soon as
I came back we started rehearsing.
surf riffs and the band I was playing in didn’t want to play that kind of
music, soon after we disbanded. So, in
the summer of 2009 I went to Amsterdam to visit my good friend who was studying
at the SAE Institute at the time. He had
a two hour studio session for his exam, so I played a new song I had
written. First the drum tracks, then
bass and guitar, it was the first version of our song “First Wave”. I sent it to Jovana and Petar, and as soon as
I came back we started rehearsing.
With the American
connotations of the term I almost hesitate to ask, but what does the name
Threesome mean or refer to? How did you
all go about choosing the name? Who came
up with?
connotations of the term I almost hesitate to ask, but what does the name
Threesome mean or refer to? How did you
all go about choosing the name? Who came
up with?
Uroš: Music we play is joy
for three of us, so this sexy name suits it great.
for three of us, so this sexy name suits it great.
Petar: I can’t
actually remember, but I think Urosh recorded something, and just labeled the
track THREESOME. Afterwards we found
that funny because there were three of us and decided to keep it.
actually remember, but I think Urosh recorded something, and just labeled the
track THREESOME. Afterwards we found
that funny because there were three of us and decided to keep it.
Is there any
shared, creed, code, ideal or mantra that the band shares or lives by?
shared, creed, code, ideal or mantra that the band shares or lives by?
Petar: Hmmmm, nothing
special. Just write songs, record them
and play shows.
special. Just write songs, record them
and play shows.
Where is Threesome
currently located at?
currently located at?
Uroš: Belgrade,
Serbia.
Serbia.
Petar: We all live in
Belgrade, Serbia.
Belgrade, Serbia.
How would you
describe the local music scene where you’re at now?
describe the local music scene where you’re at now?
Petar: In one word,
interesting. There’s something for
everyone, lots of quality and variety of music.
Live performances are also amazing, much better than just listening to
music at home. If you book bands from this
region, you’re not gonna regret it.
interesting. There’s something for
everyone, lots of quality and variety of music.
Live performances are also amazing, much better than just listening to
music at home. If you book bands from this
region, you’re not gonna regret it.
Uroš: There are a lot
of Post New Wave, Americana, Indie Rock and Hip-Hop bands at the moment.
of Post New Wave, Americana, Indie Rock and Hip-Hop bands at the moment.
Are you very
involved in the local music scene? Do
you book or attend a lot of local shows?
involved in the local music scene? Do
you book or attend a lot of local shows?
Petar: Yeah, we do attend
other shows and help with booking bands.
Sometimes we don’t play the same music style, but it’s impossible to
find band like us because there’s one, maybe two more surf bands in Serbia. I like it more when there are different
genres of bands doing the show, it makes the event better.
other shows and help with booking bands.
Sometimes we don’t play the same music style, but it’s impossible to
find band like us because there’s one, maybe two more surf bands in Serbia. I like it more when there are different
genres of bands doing the show, it makes the event better.
Uroš: We try to do as
many shows as we can. We’re the only
active surf band here at the moment though, so it’s new to a lot of people and
it takes time for them to adapt to it.
many shows as we can. We’re the only
active surf band here at the moment though, so it’s new to a lot of people and
it takes time for them to adapt to it.
Do you help record
and or release any local music?
and or release any local music?
Petar: Sometimes, but
I want to do it more. Maybe in the
future I will.
I want to do it more. Maybe in the
future I will.
Uroš: We’re currently
working on our future studio. We bought this basement in Belgrade and we’re saving money for its
adaptation and isolation. Our plan is to
make a recording studio with a lot of vintage and analog equipment, which will
consist of both digital and analog approaches to recording music. If all goes well, I don’t see any reason not
to start a local label here.
working on our future studio. We bought this basement in Belgrade and we’re saving money for its
adaptation and isolation. Our plan is to
make a recording studio with a lot of vintage and analog equipment, which will
consist of both digital and analog approaches to recording music. If all goes well, I don’t see any reason not
to start a local label here.
Do you feel like
the music scene where you’re at has played a large or important role in the
history or sound of Threesome, or do you think you all could be doing what
you’re doing and sound like you do regardless of your location or surroundings?
the music scene where you’re at has played a large or important role in the
history or sound of Threesome, or do you think you all could be doing what
you’re doing and sound like you do regardless of your location or surroundings?
Petar: I don’t think
that the local music scene influenced us at all. If it did, we wouldn’t play surf. Surf‘s not common music that a lot of people
are listening to in Serbia.
that the local music scene influenced us at all. If it did, we wouldn’t play surf. Surf‘s not common music that a lot of people
are listening to in Serbia.
Uroš: We grew up
listening to mostly US and British bands, not that we don’t like the local
music. It’s just at the time it wasn’t
very exciting or fresh.
listening to mostly US and British bands, not that we don’t like the local
music. It’s just at the time it wasn’t
very exciting or fresh.
Every time I try
to describe a band I just feel like I’m doing them some grave disservice by not
allowing them to speak for themselves or something. How would you describe Threesome’s sound in
your own words to our readers who might not have heard you yet?
to describe a band I just feel like I’m doing them some grave disservice by not
allowing them to speak for themselves or something. How would you describe Threesome’s sound in
your own words to our readers who might not have heard you yet?
Petar: It’s modern
music, with lots of interesting rhythms and retro surf reverb guitar on top.
music, with lots of interesting rhythms and retro surf reverb guitar on top.
Uroš: 60’s surf
sounds with influences of punk-rock energy and rhythmical math rock break
beats.
sounds with influences of punk-rock energy and rhythmical math rock break
beats.
While we’re
talking so much about the history and makeup of the band I’m curious to hear
who you would cite as your major musical influences? What about influences on the band as a whole
rather than just individually?
talking so much about the history and makeup of the band I’m curious to hear
who you would cite as your major musical influences? What about influences on the band as a whole
rather than just individually?
Petar: Man Or
Astroman?, Slacktone, Dick Dale, The Beach Boys, Bambi Molesters…
Astroman?, Slacktone, Dick Dale, The Beach Boys, Bambi Molesters…
Uroš: Man Or
Astroman? was probably the biggest influence and the reason we started making
these kind of songs. It sounded so
different from anything I’d ever played before, I was hooked.
Astroman? was probably the biggest influence and the reason we started making
these kind of songs. It sounded so
different from anything I’d ever played before, I was hooked.
Can you tell us a
little bit about Threesome’s songwriting process? Is there a lot of jamming and exchange of
ideas that you all work out and distill into a song together through a process
of refinement? Or is there someone who
comes to the rest of the band with a riff or somewhat finished product to work
out and compose with the rest of the band?
little bit about Threesome’s songwriting process? Is there a lot of jamming and exchange of
ideas that you all work out and distill into a song together through a process
of refinement? Or is there someone who
comes to the rest of the band with a riff or somewhat finished product to work
out and compose with the rest of the band?
Petar: Someone comes
in with the main riff and then we all come up with ideas. Sometimes it’s a five minute process;
sometimes it takes months until the song is finished.
in with the main riff and then we all come up with ideas. Sometimes it’s a five minute process;
sometimes it takes months until the song is finished.
Uroš: Usually Petar
or I come in with something we’ve written beforehand and then we all work on it
together. We’ve come up with a few new
song ideas with Jovana playing a beat and the two of us writing riffs on the
spot, which is totally new to us and opens up new possibilities.
or I come in with something we’ve written beforehand and then we all work on it
together. We’ve come up with a few new
song ideas with Jovana playing a beat and the two of us writing riffs on the
spot, which is totally new to us and opens up new possibilities.
Do you all enjoy
recording? I think that most musicians
can really appreciate the final result, holding an album in your hands is an
awesome feeling and one that’s really hard to beat. Getting to that point though, getting
everything recorded and laid down the way you want it, especially when it comes
to doing that as a band. Well, it can be
very difficult and a little bit stressful to say the least. How is it recording for you all?
recording? I think that most musicians
can really appreciate the final result, holding an album in your hands is an
awesome feeling and one that’s really hard to beat. Getting to that point though, getting
everything recorded and laid down the way you want it, especially when it comes
to doing that as a band. Well, it can be
very difficult and a little bit stressful to say the least. How is it recording for you all?
Petar: Yeah, it’s a
hard, stressful process, and the final result isn’t always what you
wanted. Actually recording is really the
only stressful thing. Everything after,
like production and mastering is quite fun.
hard, stressful process, and the final result isn’t always what you
wanted. Actually recording is really the
only stressful thing. Everything after,
like production and mastering is quite fun.
Do you all take a
more DIY approach to music where you do things on your own time and turf, with
your own equipment and personnel or do you utilize studio environments when
recording?
more DIY approach to music where you do things on your own time and turf, with
your own equipment and personnel or do you utilize studio environments when
recording?
Petar: The first
album was a studio thing, but we always try do everything and control
everything that we can, because we know what we want, and that’s the main
thing. I hope our second album is
recorded in our own studio, where we can have the freedom to do what we want
with the sound.
album was a studio thing, but we always try do everything and control
everything that we can, because we know what we want, and that’s the main
thing. I hope our second album is
recorded in our own studio, where we can have the freedom to do what we want
with the sound.
Does Threesome do
a lot of preparatory work before you record?
Is it a situation where you feel like you have to get things sounding
just the way that you want them and all worked out like clockwork, or is
recording more of an organic process where things have a little bit of
breathing room to change and evolve?
a lot of preparatory work before you record?
Is it a situation where you feel like you have to get things sounding
just the way that you want them and all worked out like clockwork, or is
recording more of an organic process where things have a little bit of
breathing room to change and evolve?
Petar: It’s a bit of
both. We try to prepare everything, but
you actually don’t know what’s going to happen so you have to be open to
changing your approach during recording.
You have to be flexible, like in everyday life.
both. We try to prepare everything, but
you actually don’t know what’s going to happen so you have to be open to
changing your approach during recording.
You have to be flexible, like in everyday life.
Your first release
that I know of was the three track self-titled, self-released Threesome CD-R
from 2010 which was limited to only like 50 copies if I’ve read correctly. What was the recording of the material for
that CD-R like? Where and when were those
tracks recorded? Who recoded them? What kind of equipment was used?
that I know of was the three track self-titled, self-released Threesome CD-R
from 2010 which was limited to only like 50 copies if I’ve read correctly. What was the recording of the material for
that CD-R like? Where and when were those
tracks recorded? Who recoded them? What kind of equipment was used?
Petar: Our friend
Goran Milošević recorded it. The guitar
and bass were recorded at his house and the drums were done at UNDERGROUND
studios. It was totally digital, nothing
analog, but I think its okay for our first EP.
Goran Milošević recorded it. The guitar
and bass were recorded at his house and the drums were done at UNDERGROUND
studios. It was totally digital, nothing
analog, but I think its okay for our first EP.
All three tracks
that appeared on the self-titled CD-R EP, “First Wave”, “Snow Turf” and
“Wahine”, also appear on your full-length follow up from 2011 Adriatica for
DemoFest Music and Double Crown Records.
Are those the same mixes and recordings that are featured on the album
as well as the EP or were any of these re-recorded or anything?
that appeared on the self-titled CD-R EP, “First Wave”, “Snow Turf” and
“Wahine”, also appear on your full-length follow up from 2011 Adriatica for
DemoFest Music and Double Crown Records.
Are those the same mixes and recordings that are featured on the album
as well as the EP or were any of these re-recorded or anything?
Petar: We had a
chance to rerecord the songs on analog equipment, so we did. Everything on ADRIATICA is recorded on analog
tape. It wouldn’t be logical to have the
same mixes, digital verse analog.
chance to rerecord the songs on analog equipment, so we did. Everything on ADRIATICA is recorded on analog
tape. It wouldn’t be logical to have the
same mixes, digital verse analog.
Can you talk a
little bit about the recording of the Adriatica album? Can you share some memories of recording that
first album? Were the session(s) very
different than those for your earlier EP?
When and where was it recorded?
Who recorded it? What kind of
equipment was used?
little bit about the recording of the Adriatica album? Can you share some memories of recording that
first album? Were the session(s) very
different than those for your earlier EP?
When and where was it recorded?
Who recorded it? What kind of
equipment was used?
Petar: Hrvoje Nikšić
recorded ADRIATICA in February of 2011 in Zagreb. We had a funny saying, “Serbs are playing,
Bosnians are paying”, because we won the recording in Banja Luka at DemoFest
competition and Croatians were recording the album. Yeah, everything was different than before,
but I think it always is, because every producer has his own way to record a
band. First thing is we recorded on
tape, 24-channels verse the earlier computer recordings; that’s probably the
main difference. On a computer you can
repeat takes as many times as you like, but with tape recordings you don’t have
that kind of flexibility, but the sound is much better. I’d like to mention that there were twelve
channels just for drums, three channels for guitar and two for bass; big
sound. Everything was going through a
Sound Craft 24-channel analog mixer and lots of analog preamps, so the sound
was pretty warm and retro.
recorded ADRIATICA in February of 2011 in Zagreb. We had a funny saying, “Serbs are playing,
Bosnians are paying”, because we won the recording in Banja Luka at DemoFest
competition and Croatians were recording the album. Yeah, everything was different than before,
but I think it always is, because every producer has his own way to record a
band. First thing is we recorded on
tape, 24-channels verse the earlier computer recordings; that’s probably the
main difference. On a computer you can
repeat takes as many times as you like, but with tape recordings you don’t have
that kind of flexibility, but the sound is much better. I’d like to mention that there were twelve
channels just for drums, three channels for guitar and two for bass; big
sound. Everything was going through a
Sound Craft 24-channel analog mixer and lots of analog preamps, so the sound
was pretty warm and retro.
In 2012 you
released a split cassette with Man Zero on Guranje S Litice and RnkaRnka
Records. I know that tape was a limited
edition affair and I did a little pit of poking around and I found out that due
to a delay with the cassettes 50 limited edition CD-Rs were produced so that
you could take them out on tour with you.
I could not however find out how many copies the tape was limited to, do
you know?
released a split cassette with Man Zero on Guranje S Litice and RnkaRnka
Records. I know that tape was a limited
edition affair and I did a little pit of poking around and I found out that due
to a delay with the cassettes 50 limited edition CD-Rs were produced so that
you could take them out on tour with you.
I could not however find out how many copies the tape was limited to, do
you know?
Petar: I don’t
remember either; think it’s something like 200 tapes.
remember either; think it’s something like 200 tapes.
That featured
three all new tracks from Threesome, “Tellurian”, “Latitude Zero” and
“Daylighting”. Were the session(s) for
this split similar to those for the Adriatica album? When were these track recorded? Where was it recorded and who recorded
it? What kind of equipment was used?
three all new tracks from Threesome, “Tellurian”, “Latitude Zero” and
“Daylighting”. Were the session(s) for
this split similar to those for the Adriatica album? When were these track recorded? Where was it recorded and who recorded
it? What kind of equipment was used?
Petar: No, we
recorded them on our own at home except for the drums; they were recorded at a
big hall, the REX culture center, where Jovana was working back then. We used a ZOOM H4N to record the big
atmosphere and reverb in the hall, it was fun.
recorded them on our own at home except for the drums; they were recorded at a
big hall, the REX culture center, where Jovana was working back then. We used a ZOOM H4N to record the big
atmosphere and reverb in the hall, it was fun.
Uroš: Those are the
songs we made after Adriatica but before we went on our first European
tour. We recorded them in a DIY
environment using equipment I had at that time.
We used a Sound Craft board and 16-track audio interface. It was recorded and mixed very fast because
we were running out of time.
songs we made after Adriatica but before we went on our first European
tour. We recorded them in a DIY
environment using equipment I had at that time.
We used a Sound Craft board and 16-track audio interface. It was recorded and mixed very fast because
we were running out of time.
Does Threesome
have any music that we haven’t talked about yet, maybe a single ora song on a
compilation that I might have missed?
have any music that we haven’t talked about yet, maybe a single ora song on a
compilation that I might have missed?
Petar: Yeah, we
recorded one session when we were touring Italy. The guys from HOT POT records in Bologna
invited us to their studio after a gig we did there. There’s one new song that we’re gonna put on
our second album from those recordings.
recorded one session when we were touring Italy. The guys from HOT POT records in Bologna
invited us to their studio after a gig we did there. There’s one new song that we’re gonna put on
our second album from those recordings.
With the Man Zero
split being over a year old at this point are there any plans for any other
releases in the works or coming up at this point?
split being over a year old at this point are there any plans for any other
releases in the works or coming up at this point?
Uroš: Yes. We have plans to record an LP, or at least EP
this year.
this year.
Petar: Yeah, we’re
working on our new album. I think we
have seven or eight new songs. We hope
to record it in our new studio that we’re planning to build. It’s gonna be a genuine THREESOME
release. We’re expecting it to be done
before the Surfer Joe festival, June to be precise.
working on our new album. I think we
have seven or eight new songs. We hope
to record it in our new studio that we’re planning to build. It’s gonna be a genuine THREESOME
release. We’re expecting it to be done
before the Surfer Joe festival, June to be precise.
With the
completely insane international postage rate increases these last few year I
try to provide our readers with as many options as I possibly can or picking up
import releases. Where’s the best place
for our US readers to pick up copies of your music?
completely insane international postage rate increases these last few year I
try to provide our readers with as many options as I possibly can or picking up
import releases. Where’s the best place
for our US readers to pick up copies of your music?
Uroš: You can buy
CD’s of our album at the Double Crown Records website!!!
CD’s of our album at the Double Crown Records website!!!
What about our
national and international readers?
national and international readers?
Uroš: We still don’t
have any European distribution, so the only way to buy vinyl, CDs or cassettes
is at our shows or through mail order.
We’re only selling mp3 or lossless digital formats on our Bandcamp page
though.
have any European distribution, so the only way to buy vinyl, CDs or cassettes
is at our shows or through mail order.
We’re only selling mp3 or lossless digital formats on our Bandcamp page
though.
And where’s the
best place for our readers to keep up with the latest news like upcoming shows
and album releases from Threesome at?
best place for our readers to keep up with the latest news like upcoming shows
and album releases from Threesome at?
Are there any
major goals that Threesome is looking to accomplish in 2014?
major goals that Threesome is looking to accomplish in 2014?
Petar: Yes, to record
our second album, build the studio, play and tour…
our second album, build the studio, play and tour…
Uroš: New album or EP
is a must.
is a must.
Do you remember
what the first song that Threesome ever played live was? Where and when would that have been?
what the first song that Threesome ever played live was? Where and when would that have been?
Uroš: Uh …
Petar: It was April
11th 2010 with Papier Tigre from France and Kill Me Laser from Serbia at KC
GRAD in Belgrade. The first song was
really the first, “First Wave”.
11th 2010 with Papier Tigre from France and Kill Me Laser from Serbia at KC
GRAD in Belgrade. The first song was
really the first, “First Wave”.
Does Threesome
spend a lot of time on the road? Do you
all enjoy touring? What’s life like out
on the road for Threesome?
spend a lot of time on the road? Do you
all enjoy touring? What’s life like out
on the road for Threesome?
Petar: Yeah, we’ve
done three tours already and we always want more, maybe the USA soon. We enjoy it, lots of new people, places and
stories, but it’s very hard for us because we don’t have a driver or a roadie,
we do it ourselves.
done three tours already and we always want more, maybe the USA soon. We enjoy it, lots of new people, places and
stories, but it’s very hard for us because we don’t have a driver or a roadie,
we do it ourselves.
Uroš: We would do it
a lot more but we also have to work, we mostly play weekends right now. Last year we only had about forty shows, the
year before that there were a lot more because we had a one month European tour
and a few smaller tours. If you ask me,
I thing I could do a six months tour every year. It’s a really exciting life, meeting new
people and cultures every day.
a lot more but we also have to work, we mostly play weekends right now. Last year we only had about forty shows, the
year before that there were a lot more because we had a one month European tour
and a few smaller tours. If you ask me,
I thing I could do a six months tour every year. It’s a really exciting life, meeting new
people and cultures every day.
What, if anything,
do you all have planned as far as touring goes for 2014 so far?
do you all have planned as far as touring goes for 2014 so far?
Petar: The plan was
to go to France in January, but it didn’t happen unfortunately. In June we’re playing at the Surfer Joe
Summer Festival and we hope to book a few gigs and turn it into a tour maybe,
we’ll see.
to go to France in January, but it didn’t happen unfortunately. In June we’re playing at the Surfer Joe
Summer Festival and we hope to book a few gigs and turn it into a tour maybe,
we’ll see.
Uroš: We had plans to
do U.S. tour this summer, but that had to be moved to next year. We’ll try to do another European tour after
we play the Surfer Joe Summer festival in June.
do U.S. tour this summer, but that had to be moved to next year. We’ll try to do another European tour after
we play the Surfer Joe Summer festival in June.
Who are some of
your personal favorite bands that you all have had the chance to play with over
the last few years?
your personal favorite bands that you all have had the chance to play with over
the last few years?
Petar: For me, Bitch Boys from Slovenia. I listened to their
music before we met them, they really rock and they’re great people.
music before we met them, they really rock and they’re great people.
Uroš: This year’s
Surfer Joe Summer Festival; really awesome lineup.
Surfer Joe Summer Festival; really awesome lineup.
In your dreams,
who are you on tour with?
who are you on tour with?
Petar: With Man Or
Astroman?, Slacktone, Messer Chups and Bambi Molesters.
Astroman?, Slacktone, Messer Chups and Bambi Molesters.
Uroš: Daikaiju and
Man Or Astroman?.
Man Or Astroman?.
Do you have any
funny or interesting stories from any of you live shows or performances that
you’d like to share here with our readers?
funny or interesting stories from any of you live shows or performances that
you’d like to share here with our readers?
Petar: I have a
tendency to fall, because of all the jumping on stage. We played in Novi Sad and I fell from the
stage because I stepped on the stairs, but my friend helped me and everything
was okay. Also, once in Škofja Loka
(Slovenia), I fell backwards turn with the bass, it was so funny!
tendency to fall, because of all the jumping on stage. We played in Novi Sad and I fell from the
stage because I stepped on the stairs, but my friend helped me and everything
was okay. Also, once in Škofja Loka
(Slovenia), I fell backwards turn with the bass, it was so funny!
Uroš: There’s so
many… On our first European tour we had
a gig in Lucerne, Switzerland. We had a
long drive there and when we arrived, the people at the club told us that there
was no gig and that this girl who had booked our show quit her job two weeks
before that. Of course, she didn’t tell
us this. There was some kind of their
multicultural Thanksgiving Day going in the street so parents and kids of
various nationalities came to this party to make food, have some drinks and
watch the soccer championship. After a
while of hanging out they asked us to play a show for their kids before the
game without knowing what kind of music we play. They promised us the same deal and
accommodations. This was a very odd, and
extremely funny situation. We were very
lucky.
many… On our first European tour we had
a gig in Lucerne, Switzerland. We had a
long drive there and when we arrived, the people at the club told us that there
was no gig and that this girl who had booked our show quit her job two weeks
before that. Of course, she didn’t tell
us this. There was some kind of their
multicultural Thanksgiving Day going in the street so parents and kids of
various nationalities came to this party to make food, have some drinks and
watch the soccer championship. After a
while of hanging out they asked us to play a show for their kids before the
game without knowing what kind of music we play. They promised us the same deal and
accommodations. This was a very odd, and
extremely funny situation. We were very
lucky.
Do you all give a
lot of thought to the visual aspect of the band? The artwork on flyers, posters, merchandise
and covers that kind of thing? Do you
all have a go-to artist for those kind of things? If so, who is that and how did you originally
get hooked up with him or her?
lot of thought to the visual aspect of the band? The artwork on flyers, posters, merchandise
and covers that kind of thing? Do you
all have a go-to artist for those kind of things? If so, who is that and how did you originally
get hooked up with him or her?
Petar: We have
friends that do it for us; Stefan Unković and Sanja Drakulić. Stefan did the covers, and Sanja has mostly
done posters. I knew Stefan before
Threesome became a band and we played together in Tough Guys Of America; Sanja
also. We’re all friends; Belgrade isn’t
that big of a city.
friends that do it for us; Stefan Unković and Sanja Drakulić. Stefan did the covers, and Sanja has mostly
done posters. I knew Stefan before
Threesome became a band and we played together in Tough Guys Of America; Sanja
also. We’re all friends; Belgrade isn’t
that big of a city.
Uroš: Our friend
Stefan Unković from Super Size She worked with us on our first EP and LP. Both cover photographs were done by Ana
Kraš. Ana’s an artist from Belgrade
who’s lived in the U.S. for the last few years, and she took the photos
somewhere on her journeys there. Lately
our good friend Sanja Drakulić is helping us with tour posters and a new web
page that we’re working on. She moved to
Norway to work in a graphic design agency not long ago though, so it’s taking
us some time to finish it.
Stefan Unković from Super Size She worked with us on our first EP and LP. Both cover photographs were done by Ana
Kraš. Ana’s an artist from Belgrade
who’s lived in the U.S. for the last few years, and she took the photos
somewhere on her journeys there. Lately
our good friend Sanja Drakulić is helping us with tour posters and a new web
page that we’re working on. She moved to
Norway to work in a graphic design agency not long ago though, so it’s taking
us some time to finish it.
With all of the
various mediums of release available to musicians today I’m always curious why
they choose and prefer the methods of release that they do. Do you have a preferred medium of release for
your own music? What about when you’re
listening to and or purchasing music? If
you do have a preference can you talk a little bit about why?
various mediums of release available to musicians today I’m always curious why
they choose and prefer the methods of release that they do. Do you have a preferred medium of release for
your own music? What about when you’re
listening to and or purchasing music? If
you do have a preference can you talk a little bit about why?
Petar: I prefer the
vinyl medium. First it’s big, alright, a
much better thing to present you than a CD.
You can’t copy vinyl, a CD you can; that’s an advantage. And lastly, though it’s subjective, the sound
is much better and warmer. I know you
can maybe reach that level of perfection with a digital algorithm which can
reproduce sound as good as analog, but for now, vinyl’s better; plus the first
two things I mentioned.
vinyl medium. First it’s big, alright, a
much better thing to present you than a CD.
You can’t copy vinyl, a CD you can; that’s an advantage. And lastly, though it’s subjective, the sound
is much better and warmer. I know you
can maybe reach that level of perfection with a digital algorithm which can
reproduce sound as good as analog, but for now, vinyl’s better; plus the first
two things I mentioned.
Uroš: I enjoy
listening to vinyl. The whole concept of
spending time putting it on, looking at the cover, not skipping parts of the
album and all that.
listening to vinyl. The whole concept of
spending time putting it on, looking at the cover, not skipping parts of the
album and all that.
Do you have a
music collection at all? If so can you
tell us a bit about it?
music collection at all? If so can you
tell us a bit about it?
Petar: Yes, I have
all The Ramones albums on CD, a few pieces of vinyl I love, like Beach Boys, Al
Green, The Descendents, All, the B52’s…
I don’t know, I always wanna have more.
all The Ramones albums on CD, a few pieces of vinyl I love, like Beach Boys, Al
Green, The Descendents, All, the B52’s…
I don’t know, I always wanna have more.
Uroš: Jovana and I
have a nice collection of vinyl from bands we’ve played with on tour or from
shows in town. Whenever we have time to
go to a record shop on tour, I try and find vinyl from some of my favorite
artists.
have a nice collection of vinyl from bands we’ve played with on tour or from
shows in town. Whenever we have time to
go to a record shop on tour, I try and find vinyl from some of my favorite
artists.
I grew up around a
fairly large collection of music and I was encouraged from a pretty young age
to listen to, and enjoy the collection.
So I would go up to these enormous shelves of music that just never
seemed to end when I was a kid and pick something completely at random to
listen to, kick back in the beanie bag, read the liner notes, stare at the artwork
and just let the whole experience transport me off to another place! As a result I developed a deep love of
physical music that I don’t think I’ll probably ever grow out of. Do you have any such connection with
physically released music?
fairly large collection of music and I was encouraged from a pretty young age
to listen to, and enjoy the collection.
So I would go up to these enormous shelves of music that just never
seemed to end when I was a kid and pick something completely at random to
listen to, kick back in the beanie bag, read the liner notes, stare at the artwork
and just let the whole experience transport me off to another place! As a result I developed a deep love of
physical music that I don’t think I’ll probably ever grow out of. Do you have any such connection with
physically released music?
Petar: Yes, I
do. But in my case, that’s mostly audio
cassettes, and they’re not the originals, so the artwork is either copied or
you just write the songs yourself on the cover.
We grew up in isolation, so at some points, we couldn’t find any
original releases. But it still strikes
me when I see my old cassette collection.
do. But in my case, that’s mostly audio
cassettes, and they’re not the originals, so the artwork is either copied or
you just write the songs yourself on the cover.
We grew up in isolation, so at some points, we couldn’t find any
original releases. But it still strikes
me when I see my old cassette collection.
Uroš: Yeah, of
course. I had a similar connection when
I was a kid. Too bad my family got rid
of most of their record collection in the 90’s when CD’s took their place. Our current collection still isn’t that big,
but I’m working on it.
course. I had a similar connection when
I was a kid. Too bad my family got rid
of most of their record collection in the 90’s when CD’s took their place. Our current collection still isn’t that big,
but I’m working on it.
As much as I love
my music collection there’s always been the major issue of portability for
me. When I was out on the road I never
had enough access to my music. Digital
music has all but eliminated this problem overnight but the real game changer
has been its combination with the internet.
Together they have both exposed people to a world of music that they
otherwise would never have been privy to, and for independent artists willing
to harbor and promote a healthy online presence it really seems to have
levelled the playing field somewhat. On
the other hand, illegal downloading is running rampant in the industry right
now and a lot of people feel like music is becoming a disposable
experience. As an artist during the
reign of the digital era, what’s your opinion on digital music and
distribution?
my music collection there’s always been the major issue of portability for
me. When I was out on the road I never
had enough access to my music. Digital
music has all but eliminated this problem overnight but the real game changer
has been its combination with the internet.
Together they have both exposed people to a world of music that they
otherwise would never have been privy to, and for independent artists willing
to harbor and promote a healthy online presence it really seems to have
levelled the playing field somewhat. On
the other hand, illegal downloading is running rampant in the industry right
now and a lot of people feel like music is becoming a disposable
experience. As an artist during the
reign of the digital era, what’s your opinion on digital music and
distribution?
Petar: Distribution
is fast and more efficient, we have to say that. And embrace it somehow, because the world is
changing and so is the music industry.
We have to find a new pattern, and try to sell concerts more, not
medium. We just use the medium however
we can to try and bring people to the shows, try somehow to take advantage of
it, because it’s just like that and you can’t change it.
is fast and more efficient, we have to say that. And embrace it somehow, because the world is
changing and so is the music industry.
We have to find a new pattern, and try to sell concerts more, not
medium. We just use the medium however
we can to try and bring people to the shows, try somehow to take advantage of
it, because it’s just like that and you can’t change it.
Uroš: I think
everyone has the right to listen to music for free. If you like it, buy it. If you like the band, pay for a ticket to
their gig or buy the vinyl or a t-shirt from them. That way, every good band gets what they
deserve and earn their money and every shitty band doesn’t.
everyone has the right to listen to music for free. If you like it, buy it. If you like the band, pay for a ticket to
their gig or buy the vinyl or a t-shirt from them. That way, every good band gets what they
deserve and earn their money and every shitty band doesn’t.
I try to keep up
with as much good music as I possibly can but with all of the outlets for music
and my time being so limited there’s just not enough hours in the day to keep
up with one-percent of the amazing stuff going on out there! Is there anyone from your local scene or area
that I should be listening to that I might not have heard of before?
with as much good music as I possibly can but with all of the outlets for music
and my time being so limited there’s just not enough hours in the day to keep
up with one-percent of the amazing stuff going on out there! Is there anyone from your local scene or area
that I should be listening to that I might not have heard of before?
Petar: Over here
there are lots and lots of bands and music; there’s not enough time to mention
people from just for this region, I’m not kidding. I could mention some, but I’ll probably miss
others; Repetitor, Inje, Temple Of The Smoke, While, Stray Dogg, Halftones,
Stuttgart online, VIS Limunada, Grandpa Candys, Darkwood Dub, 36 Daggers (R.I.P.)…
there are lots and lots of bands and music; there’s not enough time to mention
people from just for this region, I’m not kidding. I could mention some, but I’ll probably miss
others; Repetitor, Inje, Temple Of The Smoke, While, Stray Dogg, Halftones,
Stuttgart online, VIS Limunada, Grandpa Candys, Darkwood Dub, 36 Daggers (R.I.P.)…
Uroš: There’re a lot
of great bands, but first check out this amazing band called Repetitor; two
girls on drums and bass and a crazy guitarist/singer. If you like it I’ll tell you about other
bands.
of great bands, but first check out this amazing band called Repetitor; two
girls on drums and bass and a crazy guitarist/singer. If you like it I’ll tell you about other
bands.
What about
nationally and internationally?
nationally and internationally?
Petar: Uh, that’s a
really difficult question, so I’ll just mention my latest crush, Blood Orange.
really difficult question, so I’ll just mention my latest crush, Blood Orange.
Uroš: Have you heard
about Medications or Karate? They’re
just two of our many under-credited bands.
Also Rahiml; the band I mentioned I played in, Cut Self Not played with
them in Belgrade on their tour in 2008.
They stopped playing soon after that.
about Medications or Karate? They’re
just two of our many under-credited bands.
Also Rahiml; the band I mentioned I played in, Cut Self Not played with
them in Belgrade on their tour in 2008.
They stopped playing soon after that.
Thanks so much for
taking the time to talk with me about the band, it’s been a real pleasure
getting all this back story and learning so much about the band! Before we call it a day and head off into the
sunset though, is there anything that I might have missed or that you’d just
like to take this opportunity to talk to me or our readers about?
taking the time to talk with me about the band, it’s been a real pleasure
getting all this back story and learning so much about the band! Before we call it a day and head off into the
sunset though, is there anything that I might have missed or that you’d just
like to take this opportunity to talk to me or our readers about?
Uroš: Thank you for
preparing this amazing interview! After
all these questions I really can’t say you missed anything.
preparing this amazing interview! After
all these questions I really can’t say you missed anything.
Petar: Just keep calm
and listen to any kind of music! Surf’s
up!
and listen to any kind of music! Surf’s
up!
Band will be touring in California in August and their brand new EP is out now:
DISCOGRAPHY
(2010) Threesome –
Threesome – digital, CD-R – Self-Released (Limited to 50 copies)
Threesome – digital, CD-R – Self-Released (Limited to 50 copies)
(2011) Threesome –
Adriatica – digital, CD, 12” – Demofest Music/Double Crown Records
Adriatica – digital, CD, 12” – Demofest Music/Double Crown Records
(2012) Threesome/Man
Zero – Threesom/Man Zero Split – Cassette Tape, CD-R (Promo) – Guranje S
Litice/SuperSizeShe/RnkaRnka Records (Cassette Tape limited to ? copies, CD-R
promo limited to 50 copies)
Zero – Threesom/Man Zero Split – Cassette Tape, CD-R (Promo) – Guranje S
Litice/SuperSizeShe/RnkaRnka Records (Cassette Tape limited to ? copies, CD-R
promo limited to 50 copies)
(2014) Various
Artists – Monsters Of Surf Guitar – digital, CD – Dingdong Records (Threesome
contributes the track “Telurian” from their Man Zero split)
Artists – Monsters Of Surf Guitar – digital, CD – Dingdong Records (Threesome
contributes the track “Telurian” from their Man Zero split)
Interview made by Klemen Breznikar/2014
© Copyright http://psychedelicbaby.blogspot.com/2014
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