Interview with The Silkies: The Ultimate Takeover
The Silkies, a band composed of Jacob Merritt on drums/vocals, Pierce Geary on bass/vocals, and Joe Pruitt on guitars/vocals, have crafted a debut album titled “There You Have It, Lasting Peace.” Clocking in at 27 minutes of alternative rock, the album exudes familiarity while avoiding a direct bequest to any one influence. It consists of nine cohesive tracks that meander through various genres like gothic post-punk, mid-’90s new wave with a British rock twist, psychedelic pop, and distorted disco, all seamlessly united.
The trio’s band chemistry stems from their shared history, particularly Merritt and Geary, who have been musical collaborators since the age of 19. They were part of the Cincinnati-based group Pomegranates, which gained regional acclaim between 2007 and 2013. After a hiatus and brief reunion shows, Merritt and Geary, now joined by Pruitt and John Rice, have embarked on a new musical journey with The Silkies.
Despite their roots being firmly planted in Cincinnati, The Silkies resist being labeled solely as a local act. Over the past two years, they have traversed the Midwest circuit extensively, performing alongside artists like Bartees Strange, Illiterate Light, Coyote Island, and Mike Viola. These live performances have enabled the band to refine their sound, gauge audience reactions, and explore innovative musical avenues.
The band members sat down for an interview a week before the release of “There You Have It, Lasting Peace” to discuss the formation of The Silkies, the album’s thematic elements, and the challenges they faced while expanding beyond their city borders. Jacob Merritt recalled the demise of Pomegranates around 2013 due to COVID interruptions. Despite attempts to revive the band through shows and new music, a potential tour with Band of Horses was thwarted by the pandemic, leaving Merritt disheartened.
Pierce Geary shared insights into The Silkies’ inception, noting that their venture felt like a fresh start despite drawing from past experiences. The band’s sound and dynamics were new and invigorating, distinct from previous projects they had been involved in. Geary emphasized the amalgamation of existing expertise with the thrill of exploration in this novel musical endeavor.
Joe Pruitt’s addition to the band came organically after a series of serendipitous connections and lineup changes. His collaboration with Merritt and Geary has woven a strong foundation for The Silkies, with occasional contributions from John, who adds depth to their live performances and studio recordings.
The Silkies’ journey from past musical endeavors to their current artistic evolution reflects a blend of continuity and novelty. While rooted in Cincinnati, the band’s refusal to be confined to a local label speaks volumes about their ambition and commitment to delivering music that transcends geographical boundaries. As they navigate the music scene with “There You Have It, Lasting Peace,” The Silkies showcase a vibrant, eclectic sound that resonates with diverse audiences across the Midwest and beyond.