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Just Passing Through: Fountains of Wayne!
Fountains of Wayne, the mighty purveyors of the absurd pop song, are about to release a two disc rarities compilation titled "Out of State Plates." The set is the follow-up to their 2003 Grammy nominated disc, 'Welcome Interstate Managers,' which featured the cult hit 'Stacy's Mom.' TLAMS talked with FOW bassist/songwriter Adam Schlesinger and discussed the new album and a few of the many side projects Schlesinger involves himself with. You can check the band out when they perform two rare acoustic shows--June 29 and 30-- at Club Largo on Fairfax. You can find Fountains of Wayne on the web at: fountainsofwayne.com
TLAMS: Over how long a period were the tracks for "Out of State Plates" collected? Any personal favorites that you had wished made one of FOW's previous albums?
Schlesinger: They were taken from 1996- 2005 mostly, which is the period in which the band has existed. But there actually a couple that pre-date that, like Small Favors, which was recorded around 94 I think. I wish Karpet King had been on the first album. Also, I really liked California Sex Lawyer, even though it's totally stupid. But it didn't make sense thematically for Utopia Parkway, which is around when it was recorded.
TLAMS: Aside from the few acoustic performances scheduled, including those at Largo, is their a full tour being planned in support of the album?
Schlesinger: I don't think so, probably just scattered shows. We'd like to get working on another record sooner than later.
TLAMS: When can we expect a follow-up to Welcome Interstate Managers? Has your recent work with Ivy affected the way you approach your music with FOW
Schlesinger: I can't really say when to expect another one, but we're shooting for as early next year as possible. I don't think the way I work with Ivy changes the way FOW operates.
TLAMS: Tell us a little about your collaborations with James Iha from Smashing Pumpkins? How did this transpire and what are the plans for label?
Schlesinger: James and I are partners in a label (Scratchie) and a recording studio (Stratosphere Sound). We became friends in the mid-90s and have really similar tastes in music, etc. The label has a partnership deal with New Line Records and we're putting out a few things a year. Our latest releases are Robbers On High Street, The Sights, and The Sounds.
TLAMS: It was reported awhile ago that you were working on a stage adaptation of Cry Baby, is this still planned for 2006?
Schlesinger: It is still in the works, hopefully it will be ready by 2006. These things take a long time to get on their feet.
TLAMS: What records are you listening to now?
Schlesinger: I really like the new Spoon record, and I just reordered Paul Simon's first solo album, which I lost my copy of it but is one of my favorites.
Article by: TLAMS
Submitted: June, 2005
Photos: Artist's Website
Artist Website: www.fountainsofwayne.com
Email: info@thelamusicscene.com
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