Interview with Cootie Catcher: Influences on “Something We All Got” from ‘Girls’, Electrelane, and more
During a recent video call with Cootie Catcher, Nolan Jakupovski, the band’s guitarist, vocalist, and beatmaker, excitedly brandished a prop: the Pastels’ 1998 remix album Illuminati. Describing it as the sound the band strives to achieve live, Jakupovski drew inspiration from the album’s blend of jangly, twee guitar pop with electronic manipulation by artists such as My Bloody Valentine, Stereolab, and Jim O’Rourke. This influence is evident in Cootie Catcher’s latest album, “Something We All Got,” set for release this week.
The Toronto quartet’s music fuses fuzzy lo-fi melodies with skittering programmed percussion, creating a unique sound that combines various genres and styles. The album’s lead single, “Quarter Note Rock,” starts as a straightforward rock track before transforming into glitched-out distortion, showcasing the band’s experimental approach to music.
Drawing comparisons to indie pop acts like This Is Lorelei, Cootie Catcher distinguishes itself by incorporating multiple narrators in their songs. Jakupovski, bassist Anita Fowl, and synth player Sophia Chavez share vocal duties, offering different perspectives within the tracks. This thematic and sonic contrast is a defining feature of “Something We All Got.”
Anita Fowl shared that her songwriting often stems from feeling disconnected between thoughts and expressions, particularly evident in tracks like “Straight drop.” Exploring the awkwardness that persists into adulthood and embracing it through their music and album artwork, Cootie Catcher presents a relatable and authentic portrayal of personal struggles and social challenges.
The band finds inspiration in HBO’s hit series “Girls,” appreciating its realistic depiction of relationships and social dynamics within the music scene. Each member identifies with different characters from the show, highlighting the diverse personalities within the group. Fowl and Jakupovski discuss the accuracy of the show’s portrayal of the music industry and draw parallels to Toronto’s music scene, characterized by small groups and cliques.
Influenced by live performances and recordings, particularly those found on YouTube, Cootie Catcher has honed their setup for maximum impact. Jakupovski’s initial exploration of beatmaking for live performances led to a strategic approach to songwriting, ensuring their music is both engaging and feasible for live shows. The band’s simplicity in setup allows for easy adaptability and underscores their contemporary approach to music production.
Referencing bands like Disco Inferno and Electrelane, Cootie Catcher praises the innovative use of digital sampling and intricate compositions of these influential acts. The band’s affinity for manipulating samples and incorporating them into their music reflects a modern reinterpretation of past techniques and sounds. Discovering new music through platforms like YouTube has shaped the band’s musical journey and influenced their eclectic blend of genres and styles.
“Something We All Got” is a testament to Cootie Catcher’s evolution as a band, showcasing their growth and experimentation with various sounds and influences. Scheduled for release on 2/27 via Carpark Records, the album promises a compelling listening experience for fans of indie pop and experimental music alike.