Interview by Mark Anthony Brennan
Crashing Into Things is an art/garage band from Victoria. Isacson is the singer, bass player and primary songwriter. The EP ‘Smaller Than Death’ is their latest release.
If someone was to ask what Crashing Into Things is about, what you say?
Working class art rock. The words should be poetry, the music should groove, and hopefully it all has some usefulness to the world beyond making money and feeding our stupid egos. Neither of which happens much, so our plan must be working.
The new album has a definite theme, despite being put together over a period of time. Can you comment?
The central theme is facing our mortality. I developed some health issues while my friend and bandmate Mihkel Kaup’s longstanding heart problems were worsening, finally leading to him receiving a heart transplant last November (he recorded his parts for the album when he snuck back home from Vancouver for Christmas against doctor’s orders). Only the last song, “The Show,” was created entirely within that period, but all the songs reference our mortality in one way or another, and ripened around the same time.
What’s the craziest show you’ve ever played as Crashing Into Things?
Probably playing on a flat deck trailer in the middle of a BMX rally on Pender Island. The Gulf Island shows are always interesting, we love them.
You have a rather unique vocal style. Did you develop it or is that simply your natural singing voice?
I just sing the songs like I hear them in my head. I played with my voice a bit more on this recording than any of the others I think, both in the singing and the recording process, with more overdubbing and effects.
What’s up in 2019 for Crashing Into Things?
The EP was the main thing, it’s our first extended release in over 3 years. We’ve played quite a bit already this year, and have applied for a few festivals. Once we hear back from those we can plan other shows. (We are playing The Loft in Victoria with Standard Issue Pleasure Model March 23rd). And we’re always working on new material.
Irregular Dreams 