Dan Bejar from Destroyer discusses singing, getting older, and Shakespeare’s King Lear – Pittsburgh City Paper

Dan Bejar, the creative force behind Destroyer, a Canadian indie rock band, recently sat down for an interview ahead of their performance at Mr. Smalls Theatre in Pittsburgh. Their latest album, Dan’s Boogie, is described as a mix of decaying glamour and moments of beauty. Bejar discussed the experience of playing the new album live, highlighting the energy that comes from performing as a full band after recording tracks in a scattered manner.

The evolution of Destroyer’s live performances throughout a tour was another aspect Bejar touched upon. He mentioned the initial tension of finding their footing on stage, transitioning into a more intense and surreal experience. Despite the challenges of touring and aging, Bejar emphasized that the shows themselves are always a highlight for the band.

When it comes to their setlist, Destroyer tends to focus on songs from their more recent albums, leaning heavily on the band’s unified sound since the addition of certain band members. Bejar explained that the new album, Dan’s Boogie, was not initially conceived as a cross between Poison Season and Your Blues but rather evolved into that sound during the creative process. The album delves into themes of love, longing, and loss, echoing Bejar’s inspiration from jazz vocalists of the 20th century.

Bejar also discussed the personal nature of Dan’s Boogie, pointing out the humorous and introspective elements that come with lyrical maturity. The album’s title, which playfully includes his name, was initially meant as a joke but ended up encapsulating the personal essence of the record. Bejar noted the presence of “old man humor” in the songs, suggesting a natural progression towards more comedic elements as he ages.

Regarding his songwriting process, Bejar revealed a newfound consciousness that differed from previous methods where creativity flowed more spontaneously. The transition between albums was influenced by a yearlong hiatus from writing and an extended solo tour, both of which contributed to Bejar’s introspective approach to crafting the songs on Dan’s Boogie. This shift towards a more personal and introspective songwriting style allowed Bejar to fully embody his voice and create a more authentic sound.

In summary, Dan Bejar’s insights shed light on Destroyer’s latest album, Dan’s Boogie, and the band’s evolving dynamic when performing live. With a focus on personal growth, creative exploration, and embracing humor in their music, Destroyer continues to captivate audiences with their unique blend of indie rock and lyrical depth.