Earth Tongue explores analog sound on latest release

Wellington’s Earth Tongue, a psych rock duo, recently released their latest album, Dungeon Vision, recorded in Los Angeles with renowned US retro-rock musician Ty Segall overseeing production. Operating with a staunchly lo-fi approach, Segall’s reputation for working with analogue gear led to a raw and authentic sound on the album, as drummer Ezra Simons revealed in an interview with Music 101.

Describing Dungeon Vision as a “raw record,” Simons emphasized the analogue nature of the recording process. He pointed out that working with Segall meant going back to basics without the aid of computers, resulting in a more limited but liberating experience. Vocalist and guitarist Gussie Larkin echoed this sentiment, highlighting that while the stripped-down recording approach presented challenges, it ultimately allowed for a more authentic and spontaneous performance.

All the songs on Dungeon Vision were penned by Larkin and Simons in Berlin before they traveled to California to record with Segall. Embracing a live recording approach without the use of click tracks or computers, the duo leveraged tape recording to capture the essence of their music. According to Simons, they completed the mixing process in just three days following the recording session, ensuring a swift and efficient production.

For Larkin, working on Dungeon Vision meant letting go of her perfectionist tendencies to embrace the raw authenticity of the rock genre. She acknowledged the imperfections in some tracks as part of the album’s charm, underscoring the importance of delivering a genuine performance without relying on post-production fixes. The recording process with Segall emphasized the essence of rock and roll, encouraging the duo to focus on delivering powerful performances with minimal room for error.

In the mixing stage, Segall’s unorthodox approach involved testing the tracks in his miniature van to assess how they sounded on regular speakers. Larkin shared that Segall’s insistence on this unconventional process stemmed from a superstitious belief in its efficacy, emphasizing the producer’s commitment to achieving the desired sound for Dungeon Vision.

As part of their album release, Earth Tongue embarked on a six-date tour across New Zealand, showcasing their raw and authentic sound live. The tour included stops in Kerikeri, Auckland, Hamilton, Dunedin, Christchurch, and Wellington, providing audiences with an opportunity to experience the band’s retro-rock energy firsthand.

By collaborating with Ty Segall and embracing an analogue recording approach, Earth Tongue successfully captured the essence of their music in Dungeon Vision. Their commitment to authenticity and raw performance resonates throughout the album, reflecting their dedication to the rock genre’s roots and delivering a genuine listening experience for their audience.