Back in July the band that exists in between the genres, Paper Jackets, released their latest project Souvenirs Vol. 1. Since being COVID has effectively shut down promoting this killer collection of synth-pop, indie grooves, and alternative vibes, Paper Jackets got creative and reimagined some of their newer singles off the record. With strong pop roots and moments reminiscent of Dashboard Confessional, while draped in a strong electronic undertone – Paper Jackets are impossible to nail down. Originally lace in a heavy ’90s pop beat, today we premiere the alternative version of “Baby Teeth”.
We got the chase to chat with frontman, James, and talk a little more about the project and what the future holds for Paper Jackets.
Play Too Much: Let’s start off with a short introduction – who are you and what is your role in the band?
Paper Jackets: Hey! I’m James and I sing in the band along with Aimee who sings lead vocals as well, Emily on keys, and Johnny on Guitar.
PTM: How did you go about selecting which songs to strip down? What was that creative process like?
PJ: It was really decided that a few of our newest singles would be picked. The creative process has been unique given the pandemic but also a new way to share our music. In doing it virtually we’ve found we can deliver the same performance just in isolation while waiting for baseball stadiums and public parks to reopen. It’s just a waiting game but we’re really bad at waiting. So in the meantime fun videos for everyone!
PTM: For “Baby Teeth” – the original holds such an upbeat 90’s pop beat, whereas the stripped back version reads more like a somber ballad – what feeling(s) do you hope your fans generate when listening to each version? Do you think the two versions should be consumed as 2 completely different entities or as 2 halves of the same whole?
PJ: Great question. The production really influences the vibe of the song and since we have been writing all these songs on acoustic guitar prior it tends to change pretty wildly. I think the listener is getting a new view of the song and might try to see it for what it is either way. I’m definitely more of a somber listener than let’s say “what’s popular on the radio” or whatever but in being somber I think you can go a little deeper than the mainstream. There’s value in listening if you liked the song in the first place and maybe if you didn’t like the first version you might find yourself liking the acoustic version. I’ve noticed some people don’t care for a lot of production on a song.
PTM: A lot of artists have been putting on virtual concerts and most recently, Drive-In concerts – is this something you guys will be experimenting with in the near future?
PJ: I really hope so. It’s kinda strange on first thought but hey whatever works. I think once the vaccine is manufactured etc.. we will see a huge rush back to concerts.
PTM: Aside from creating killer alternative versions of your tracks – what else have you been doing to help keep yourselves sane during quarantine and beyond?
PJ: You know lately I’m starting to feel like I have fewer answers. I’m way crazier now than when this first started. We’ve been writing a ton of songs which has been fun! Aimee beat Mario Odyssey. Honestly, though it’s been pretty slow and I’m watching way too many news programs. Thinking about buying a bike. I’ll let you know how that goes.
PTM: There’s no doubt that the pandemic has changed the music industry and opened people’s eyes to what it’s like being a musician in a world of uncertainty – can you share with us the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a musician in the wake of COVID-19?
PJ: Loss of self just in that I felt like traveling and doing band shit definitely defined us. We felt like we mattered more when we were free to perform and continue our efforts. Just the general mind fuck that is COVID-19. Lots of doubt that things may not return to normal.
PTM: But with every dark cloud there seems to be a silver lining. People have become so much more aware of different charities – do you guys have any that you are truly passionate about?
PJ: I don’t have a specific charity but I think teachers and public schools are hurting the most and it’s sad to see programs being cut especially ones that might help kids be creative.
PTM: Back in July you released Souvenirs, Vol. 1 – are there any current ideas or melodies floating around for Vol. 2?
PJ: So many I can’t even tell you.
PTM: When the music industry is finally back up and running at its full capacity – what’s the first thing you guys are gonna do?
PJ: Party like it’s 2019! I don’t really know honestly, just be thankful that this is all behind us and move forward with our careers.
PTM: Thank you so much for taking the time to talk to us – would you like to share any final thoughts with your fans and our readers?
PJ: Yes thank you! Just remember that you’re lovable, life is worth-while and nobody does you better than you.
Back in July the band that exists in between the genres, Paper Jackets, released their latest project Souvenirs Vol. 1. Since being COVID has effectively shut down promoting this killer collection of synth-pop, indie grooves, and alternative vibes, Paper Jackets got creative and reimagined some of their newer singles off the record. With strong pop roots and moments reminiscent of Dashboard Confessional, while draped in a strong electronic undertone – Paper Jackets are impossible to nail down. Originally lace in a heavy ’90s pop beat, today we premiere the alternative version of “Baby Teeth”.
