Sound Bullet, a band recognised for its unique fusion of math rock and indie, returns with its first live release, entitled “Inevitable EP 2023”. This record captures the raw essence of the group’s music during their intense performances, presenting a selection of songs from their most recent album in a live interpretation.
Bassist Fred Mattos expresses his enthusiasm about the release: “‘Inevitable EP 2023’ is one of the coolest things we’ve ever done in my opinion. Not because of the quality itself or because it’s something innovative, but because I had a lot of contact with the bootleg culture, even though I started my journey of musical discovery in the 2000s,” he reflects, considering the current logic of streaming that gives this initiative a peculiar touch.
A highlight of this release is the track “Lavender Town”, which also received a live clip, full of images from the band’s tour. This song carries a special meaning for Sound Bullet and their fans, exploring deep themes such as growth, change, facing the inevitable and mourning, inspired by the universe of the Pokémon games. The track was previously released as a single and is now an integral part of this live EP, along with others such as “Inevitable” and “Jupiter Jazz Pt.2”, featured on the studio album.
This live EP is a celebration of Sound Bullet’s musical authenticity, marking the close of a decade in the band’s career after three studio albums since their debut EP “Ninguém Está Sózinho”. It is now available to listen to on all the main music platforms through Sony Music Brasil.
The release of “Inevitable EP 2023” marks a significant step for Sound Bullet. What are the band’s future plans after this live release?
Our main objectives from now on are to work on more songs. We want to make new releases for the next few months with 100% unreleased stuff and versions. But of course we’re thinking of doing some more concert dates for the second part of the Inevitable tour.
The track “Lavender Town” has a deep and special meaning for Sound Bullet and its fans. How did inspiration from the world of Pokémon games influence the lyrical and musical approach of this song?
In reality, it was just a little metaphor that fitted in perfectly with the meaning of the song. Like it or not, Pokémon was one of those franchises that made a big impression on people our age, both in terms of games and TV cartoons. I think almost everyone in the band bought one of those floppy discs that came with the game to play on their PC. And Lavender Town is an outstanding phase because it was ghostly, as well as having that creepypasta about the music.
The transformation of an intense concert into a live recording brings a unique experience for listeners. How did the band adapt the energy and emotion of the shows for this live EP?
I think it was possible to choose songs that captured that energy well and were able to convey that emotion in the recorded audio. Of course, nothing is the same as “live”, but there’s a little more viscerality, a little more grip and strength that the studio can hardly translate.
You’ve mentioned the influence of bootleg culture on the conception of “Inevitable EP 2023”. What specific aspects of this culture inspired you the most?
I think the bootleg culture was part of those who started listening to music in the 1990s and 2000s, albeit in different ways. It was a way of trying to bring back a dirtier, less over-thought “live”, more of a touring show.
Something that was lost with the official live shows of the 2000s – which I also like a lot, but which have been calculated since the beginning.
The live EP captures the raw essence of Sound Bullet’s music. How would you describe that essence to someone listening for the first time?
I’d say it’s Sound Bullet from the rehearsal studio from the very first moment. I’d describe it as organic music, but it doesn’t neglect what’s being played. It’s music to get into the vibe.
Over the years, Sound Bullet has undergone a remarkable musical evolution. How do you see this evolution reflected in the songs presented on this live EP?
The first point, I’d say, is that we’ve evolved as musicians. We’re getting better and better at executing things as we idealised them, but at the same time, we’ve been able to let go a little too. We’re trying to be more and more human with each release.
In addition to the song, the live clip for “Lavender Town” offers an insight into the band’s tour. How was the experience of recording and sharing this clip with fans?
It’s fun! These are moments from concerts, rehearsals, recordings and tours that we’ve never really shared. I think it helps to convey a little bit of who we are in this off-show. I don’t know, but sometimes it can seem like we’re more serious than we really are, so I think the video helps show another side.
The live EP features a selection of songs from the band’s most recent album. How did you decide which songs to include and why were these chosen?
Our aim was 100% to promote songs from the new album. We chose the ones we liked best from the ones we played. We have other records from previous albums that – who knows – may see the light of day in some time. And as I said above, it also has a lot to do with the vibe the song had at the time, whether it brought strength, etc.
What challenges did you face in adapting your live performance style to a recording format like this EP?
It’s always complicated, isn’t it? Because you have to take what was recorded raw and translate it into audio that doesn’t capture the particularities of the launch day, you know? On the day, for example, Audio Rebel was practically packed, how do you bring that to the audio? You can hear the audience in the songs, but how do you convey what people heard? I think Tak and Henrique (who mixed and mastered) did an excellent job, making the disc very alive, without trying to hide or change what the day was like.
For fans who already know Sound Bullet, what does this live EP bring that’s new and exciting for them?
I think it’s what they listen to at every gig. We swing between the vibe and the best execution, showing how the new songs can win over even those who aren’t so keen on the heavier sound. It’s a new step for us.
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