Patterson Hood of Drive-By Truckers discusses latest album
Drive-By Truckers’ frontman Patterson Hood is known for his energetic southern rock performances with the band, but his latest album, Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams, takes a more vulnerable and reflective approach. Despite the shift in tone, Hood’s signature lyrical style remains intact, showcasing his songwriting prowess in a new light. This autobiographical album delves into themes of solitude, sorrow, and reflection, marking a departure from his previous works.
Teaming up with Chris Funk of The Decemberists for this project was a natural and enjoyable collaboration for Hood. Having formed a friendship with Funk after moving to Oregon, Hood had always wanted to work with him on an album. As the songs for Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams began to take shape, he knew they were a departure from his usual Drive-By Truckers style and saved them for this special project. The recording process brought in a variety of talented artists like MJ Lenderman, Wednesday, Waxahatchee, Kyleen King, and Steve Berlin, all of whom added their unique perspectives and musical approaches to the album.
Working with a diverse group of musicians allowed Hood to explore new soundscapes and create a rich tapestry of sounds on the album. Each collaborator brought something special to the table, from Katie of Waxahatchee’s vocals to Kyleen King’s viola and Lydia’s standout performance on “A Werewolf and a Girl.” The album’s standout track, “The Van Pelt Parties,” features Wednesday and MJ Lenderman and was recorded in Athens, Georgia, showcasing the joy of collaboration and creativity behind the music.
Despite the thematic heaviness of the album, Hood’s songwriting process was surprisingly organic. What started as a collection of songs for a potential project with Funk evolved into a concept album that inadvertently tells a compelling story of introspection and personal experiences. Drawing parallels to his previous concept album, Southern Rock Opera, Hood found that his creative process organically steered him towards a cohesive and autobiographical narrative in Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams.
As Hood prepares to take the stage alongside John Moreland for a live performance at Stuart’s Opera House, fans can expect to hear a mix of his latest solo work, past albums, and Drive-By Truckers hits. This new foray into more introspective and vulnerable territory showcases Hood’s evolution as an artist while staying true to his roots in southern rock. The album’s collaborative spirit and thematic depth promise a unique and captivating experience for audiences seeking a glimpse into Hood’s personal journey and creative process.