Blunt Magazine, Issue 46, January 2006, with Chris Cheney (and Andy Strachan)

Author Unknown


Among The Living

The Living End Prepare To Unleash Their Essence On Disc For their fourth full length album, TLE have finally captured something close to the power that has made them Australia's best live band for almost a decade. Due out February 5th, the album, entitled STATE OF EMERGENCY, is an attempt by the trio to outstrip the energy of their 1998 self titled debut while utilising everything they've learned about playing and songwriting in the intervening years.
"One thing we wanted to do with this album , because i just don't think we've captured it, especially not on the last album, was when we get onstage, it's like a fuckin' different band," guitarist/vocalist Chris Cheney told BLUNT.
"We get up there sometimes and we've got real aggression and a real fire, then we get into the studio and go, 'Okay we're recording now, better make sure I play that chord properly and get everything so perfect that it doesn't sound like what we sound like.' "I don't think there's much on this album that's going to freak people out, except maybe we've captured an energy and a vibe with this one that we were seriously lacking last time. And I reckon these are the best songs we've ever written, and I know that's a cliche, but I really do - we've fuckin' nailed it this time."

Recorded in Byron Bay's Mangrove Studios by Nick Launay (Nick Cave, Midnight Oil), who worked on TLE's second album, ROLL ON (2000), STATE OF EMERGENCY was almost a reaction to what the band felt was quite a sterile-sounding last-up effort MODERN ARTillery (2003)
"We've done it better this time," Cheney says confidently. "I think it's got the best of what we can do as having full-on energy in some songs that will stand up to any hardcore band or punk band, and then we've got some of the best hooks and the best writing we've ever done. Some of the last album had a big American rock feel to it, whereas with this one we've sometimes gone for tinny sounds, sharp sounds, edgy moments, a very English sound."

STATE OF EMERGENCY's first single, "What's On You Radio", hit the airwaves in November, just prior to the group showcasing several new songs at two intimate gigs at Melbourne's Corner Hotel and Sydney's Annadale Hotel where they were secretly billed under the moniker "The Longnecks". The new album's second single, "Wake Up", will be released to coincide with the band's BIG DAY OUT appearances in January and February.
"Some of our live shows now are dangerous, just out of control," Chris warns anyone with a ticket to the BDO. "We're playing so much better lately, it's more intense than it's ever been."

STATE OF EMERGENCY is due out February 5th on EMI.


Later on page 49

ANDY STRACHAN of THE LIVING END

What is the best thing about playing the Big Day Out?
"The crowd"

What is your best festival experience, either attending or playing?
"Seeing Soundgarden at my first BDO"

What is the best festival performance you've ever witnessed?
"After blowing up the PA on the mainstage, QOTSA played an improptu set on one of the small stages later that day at NZ BDO '03. One of the most intense shows I've ever seen!"

Which band are you most looking forward to play along side at BDO '06?
"Can't wait to see The Mars Volta... their drummer is bloody amazing."

What band are you most looking forward to having a drink with at BDO '06?
"Wouldn't mind having a beer with Jack and Meg."

Name 5 essential items for a festival rider Beer, water, fruit, beer and beer."

What is the ultimate festival drink?
"Beer"

What is the best advice you can give to the punters?
"Be good unto others and they shall be good to you."

Do you have any fashion tips for the style-conscious festival-goer?
"Don't wear anything... that you care about too much!"

What's the last thing you'll do before going onstage?
"Put 3 chewies in my mouth."