Strumming Together: How Broken Social Scene Celebrates the Power of 'Everyone' on Guitar
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Rediscovering Roots: Broken Social scene’s Embrace of Collective Guitar Play
Charles Spearin, a multi-talented member of Broken Social Scene, shares that their latest album, Remember the Humans, represents a nostalgic return to their foundational sound.
The recent singles, such as The Call, showcase a blend of catchy melodies and intricate instrumental arrangements reminiscent of their iconic 2002 album, You Forgot It in People, and it’s 2005 self-titled successor. Thes records have solidified the band’s status as a cherished indie powerhouse for over 25 years.
The titles Remember the Humans and You Forgot It in People hint at the project’s essence, which has seen contributions from numerous artists since co-founders Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning initiated it in the late ’90s. This collaborative spirit thrives on the dynamic connections among its diverse contributors.
Spearin has played a pivotal role in the band,contributing guitar,bass,and production skills,among other responsibilities. A crucial element in the creation of humans was rekindling the partnership with producer-engineer David Newfeld, who was instrumental in their earlier works. The recent recording sessions in his studio, affectionately dubbed the “dungeon” in Trenton, Ontario, reflect the band’s creative energy.
“Dave was the main instrument,” Spearin notes, acknowledging the continuity of equipment used between Humans and their earlier albums. “For You Forgot It in People, we ran a lot of sounds through my vintage Traynor Guitar Mate from 1974: vocals, guitars, and even drums at times.”
“That amp substantially shaped the sound of that record, and we utilized it again for this album.I also played my trusty Silvertone guitar. But the key factor was revisiting Dave’s gear.”
Newfeld encouraged Spearin to layer multiple cascading guitar lines for the album’s opener, Not Around Anymore. He also employed a variety of custom-built compressors, preamps, and EQs. “His enthusiasm for that equipment is infectious,” Spearin remarks. “Collaborating with him yields a unique sound that’s hard to replicate.”
spearin’s extensive musical journey began in the ’90s, where he explored post-rock with Do Make Say Think, toured with BSS alum feist, collaborated on the award-winning Secret Path album with the late Gord Downie of The Tragically Hip, and even composed experimental symphonies using a collection of iPhones.
His experience includes working with numerous artists, including the five active guitarists who take the stage during any given BSS performance.
“When the band first formed, we played a gig at Sneaky Dee’s in Toronto. That was when we realized that everyone wanted to play guitar!” Spearin reminisces. “We quickly recognized the absurdity of it and decided to embrace it.”
Broken Social Scene – Not Around Anymore – YouTube
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What sparked your journey with the guitar?
It all started when I was a 13-year-old kid at a Long & McQuade garage sale, armed with my paper-route earnings, purchasing an El Degas starburst Strat copy. Learning to play (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction ignited a thrill in my chest.
Do you still have that El Degas?
No, I eventually traded it for an Epiphone Les Paul copy, then moved on to a hollowbody Ibanez. My high school years were filled with metal music, playing in a band called the Dead Lemmings, but my musical outlook shifted in my 20s.
I began exploring artists like Yo La Tengo and Spiritualized, whose music emphasized emotion over technical prowess, moving away from trying to replicate Kirk Hammett or Joe Satriani solos. Ira Kaplan from Yo La Tengo remains one of my favourite guitarists, as his style is rooted in noise and passion.
Eventually, I stumbled upon an old Silvertone with a lipstick pickup for $200. Despite a critically important crack in the neck, it had immense character. That’s been my go-to guitar since 2001.
(Image credit: Travis P Ball/Getty Images)
Recently,I received a 1448 Silvertone,the same model played by Beck and Angel Olsen,which features an amplifier built into the case. Nicholas Ley, the drummer for The Flaming Lips, gifted it to me.
During a Broken Social Scene show in oklahoma, Nick observed my soundcheck performance and was intrigued by my Silvertone. He returned with the 1448 and the amp-case, saying, “I want to give this to someone who’ll appreciate it. I have two of them.”
The sound produced by these guitars is unparalleled. While I own several modern guitars, the unique shimmer of the lipstick pickups and the warmth of the body resonate with me deeply.
The Dynamics of Collaboration in a Large Collective
Broken Social Scene is known for its expansive collective of musicians. What are the challenges of navigating such a vast creative ecosystem?
The guiding principle within Broken Social scene is to “leave space for who knows what.” Each member coudl easily fill the available space, but it’s more about the personalities and choices made by our friends that shape the music.
Broken Social Scene – Hey Amanda - YouTube
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Exploring the collective Sound of broken Social Scene
In the vibrant world of Broken Social scene, the essence of collaboration shines through in their music. The band’s latest album, Remember the Humans, is a testament to their commitment to a sound that feels both familiar and fresh, echoing their earlier works while embracing new influences.
Charles Spearin, a key member of the band, describes the album as a return to their roots, blending anthemic melodies with intricate guitar layers. The recent single The Call exemplifies this, reminiscent of the beloved tracks from their 2002 classic, You Forgot It in People, and its 2005 self-titled follow-up. These albums have solidified Broken Social Scene’s reputation as a beloved indie collective for over 25 years.
The Spirit of Collaboration
The titles Remember the Humans and You Forgot It in People reflect the band’s ethos of inclusivity and collaboration. As its inception in the late ’90s by co-founders Kevin Drew and Brendan Canning, the project has welcomed numerous artists, creating a rich tapestry of sound that thrives on the diverse contributions of its members.
Spearin has played a multifaceted role in the band, contributing guitar, bass, and production skills. A pivotal aspect of the album’s creation was reconnecting with producer David Newfeld, who was instrumental in their earlier recordings. The sessions in his studio, affectionately referred to as the “dungeon” in Trenton, Ontario, captured the band’s creative energy.
“Dave was the main instrument,” Spearin explains, noting the continuity of equipment used between Humans and their earlier albums. “For You Forgot It in People, we ran many sounds through my vintage Traynor Guitar Mate from 1974: vocals, guitars, and even drums at times.”
“That amp significantly shaped the sound of that record, and we utilized it again for this album. I also played my trusty Silvertone guitar. But the key factor was revisiting dave’s gear.”
Memorable Performances and Unique Experiences
Reflecting on their early days, Spearin recalls, “We’ve spilled over the sides of many stages during our initial tours, especially in small clubs. I remember a gig in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where we all crammed into a tiny house, filling half the living room with our amps and instruments.”
“We even played a house concert a couple of years ago where there was barely room for an audience-people were sticking their heads through the windows! It was hot, sweaty, and incredibly fun.”
One of the standout tracks in the Broken Social Scene catalog is the bass line in Stars and Sons from You Forgot It in People. Spearin recalls, “dave Newfeld was trying to get his studio working, and we had to entertain ourselves while his old board was falling apart-smoke was coming out of the back of it.”
Broken Social Scene – “Halfway Home” (Official Audio) – YouTube
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“I think Andrew Whiteman was playing this little Bontempi keyboard in the corner. Dave had this old Craftsman bass, a hollowbody that I loved. I was noodling around with this fairly Do Make Say Think-ish bass line, but a little more Beatles-y as of the tone of the bass,” Spearin recalls.”Then I expanded it into a nice rising bass line. It’s actually in the key of C, but I rarely ever play a C, so it has this suspension to it – it never really lands until you get to the bridge. Brendan Canning threw down a vocal and we kept the very first scratch he did. That was an exciting moment!”
“There’s a lot of improvisation in Broken social Scene. I’ve missed a few tours due to family commitments or recording with Do Make Say Think or touring with Feist, so everyone knows moast of the parts. We can alternate. It may be that someone else was playing the bass part that night, and I just decided to double it on the acoustic guitar.”
Innovative Sounds in the New Album
when asked about the standout guitar moments in their latest record, Spearin notes, “This album feels more fluid. The way Dave Newfeld mixed it allows for many parts to come in and fade out. If you try to decipher the bass line for Not Around Anymore, you’d struggle because it features four or five diffrent basses all doing distinct things!”
(image credit: Scott Dudelson/Getty Images)
“One of the things I appreciate about this record is its complexity. It’s somewhat enigmatic, yet it comes together in a profoundly musical and emotional way. This reflects the almost egoless nature of Broken Social Scene, where everyone contributes their unique flavors to the mix, and no single person can claim ownership of it.”
Surreal Collaborations and Unique Instruments
Throughout his career, Spearin has collaborated with a multitude of artists. He recalls a especially surreal experience: “I went with a violinist to this tiny chapel. Our musical connection was instantaneous-joy bursting from our hearts!”
In 2019, Spearin was invited by Feist to a writer’s retreat at a castle in northern Italy, surrounded by a group of exceptionally talented musicians. “I don’t want to name names because it was a private event,but it was a week filled with writing and bonding with incredible artists from around the globe.”
“I brought my nyckelharpa, a unique instrument resembling a brutalist violin with buttons rather of a fretboard. Having played guitar for years made it easier to adapt to the nyckelharpa, as it’s more about memorizing chord shapes and mastering the bowing technique.”
Broken Social Scene – The Call - YouTube
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Echoes of History: A Unique Musical Experience in Italy
During a recent musical journey, I found myself in a quaint chapel, no larger than a cozy living room, alongside a talented violinist. The acoustics in this intimate space were nothing short of exceptional, creating an immediate and profound connection between us as we played. The joy we felt was palpable, bursting forth with every note!
This chapel, however, was steeped in history, located in a region of Italy that had suffered immensely during the bubonic plague in the 1300s. The walls were adorned with graffiti-desperate pleas for salvation that read, “God, save us from the plague.”
Amidst the somber reminders of the past, a large red X painted on one wall signified that the plague had finally receded, yet it was a grim reminder that only 10% of the population had survived. This juxtaposition of haunting despair and flickering hope imbued the chapel with a unique energy.Each day, we returned to this sacred space to improvise, and the experience felt otherworldly-joyful and deeply authentic.
Strumming Together: How Broken Social Scene Celebrates the Power of ‘Everyone’ on Guitar
Strumming Together: How Broken Social Scene Celebrates the Power of ‘Everyone’ on Guitar
The Collective Spirit of Broken Social Scene
Broken Social Scene (BSS) is a Canadian indie rock band known for its unique approach to music-making, which emphasizes collaboration and inclusivity. Founded in the late 1990s by kevin Drew and Brendan canning, the band has grown into a collective of musicians, often featuring a rotating lineup of artists. This dynamic allows for a rich tapestry of sounds, where each member contributes their unique style, particularly on guitar.
Embracing Everyone: The beliefs Behind BSS
At the heart of Broken Social Scene’s ethos is the belief that music is a communal experience. The band’s motto, “leave space for who knows what,” encapsulates their approach to songwriting and performance. This philosophy encourages every musician involved to express themselves freely, resulting in a sound that is greater than the sum of its parts.
Key Elements of Their Collaborative Approach
Inclusivity: BSS welcomes musicians from various backgrounds,allowing for diverse influences to shape their sound.
Shared Creativity: Each member contributes ideas,melodies,and harmonies,fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the music.
Fluid Roles: Musicians frequently enough switch instruments during performances, showcasing their versatility and encouraging experimentation.
The Power of Guitar in BSS’s Music
Guitar plays a pivotal role in the sound of broken Social Scene. The band’s use of multiple guitarists creates a layered, textured sound that is both intricate and inviting.This approach not only highlights the individual talents of each guitarist but also emphasizes the collective nature of their music.
Notable Guitar Techniques Used by BSS
Technique
Description
Example Song
Layering
Multiple guitar parts are recorded to create a rich, full sound.
“The Call”
Call and Response
Guitars interact with each other, creating a dialog within the music.
“Stars and Sons”
Improvisation
Musicians often improvise during live performances, adding spontaneity.
“Halfway Home”
Benefits of Collaborative Music-Making
Collaborative music-making, as exemplified by Broken Social Scene, offers numerous benefits:
Enhanced Creativity: Working with others can spark new ideas and inspire musicians to explore different genres and styles.
Skill Development: Musicians can learn from one another, improving their technique and expanding their musical vocabulary.
Stronger Community: Collaboration fosters a sense of belonging and camaraderie among musicians, creating lasting relationships.
Case Studies: BSS Collaborations
throughout their career, Broken Social Scene has collaborated with a variety of artists, showcasing their commitment to inclusivity. Here are a few notable examples:
1. Feist
Feist, a former member of BSS, has collaborated on several tracks, bringing her unique vocal style and guitar work to the band’s sound. Her contributions have helped shape songs like “I Feel It All,” which features intricate guitar melodies intertwined with her haunting vocals.
2. Emily haines
As a member of Metric, Emily Haines has also collaborated with BSS, adding her distinctive voice and guitar skills to tracks such as “Anthems for a Seventeen-Year-Old Girl.” Her presence enhances the band’s sound, creating a beautiful blend of harmonies.
3. The Last Shadow Puppets
In a unique collaboration,BSS joined forces with The Last Shadow Puppets for a special performance,showcasing the power of collective guitar playing. This partnership highlighted the versatility of both bands and the magic that happens when musicians come together.
First-Hand Experience: A BSS Concert
Attending a Broken social Scene concert is an unforgettable experience. The energy in the room is palpable as multiple guitarists take the stage, each contributing their unique flair to the performance. The band’s ability to seamlessly transition between songs, often improvising and experimenting with different sounds, creates an electric atmosphere that keeps the audience engaged.
What to Expect at a BSS Show
Dynamic Setlists: Each performance features a mix of classic hits and new material, ensuring that no two shows are the same.
audience Interaction: BSS encourages audience participation, making everyone feel like a part of the experience.
spontaneous jams: Expect unexpected solos and improvisations that showcase the musicians’ talents and creativity.
Practical Tips for Collaborative guitar Playing
If you’re inspired by Broken Social Scene’s approach to music-making,here are some practical tips for fostering collaboration in yoru own guitar playing:
Find Your Tribe: connect with other musicians who share your passion for collaboration. Join local music groups or online communities to meet like-minded individuals.
Experiment with Roles: Don’t be afraid to switch instruments or take on different roles within your group. This can lead to new ideas and a more dynamic sound.
Encourage improvisation: Create a safe space for improvisation during rehearsals. This can help musicians feel more agreeable expressing themselves and exploring new musical ideas.
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