The James Clark Institute’s new full-length recording, ‘Yesterday’s Misadventures’ (official release date: October 24, 2016) was produced by iconic Canadian musician/producer Moe Berg (The Pursuit Of Happiness).

Clark talks about bed tracks, a Tornado Bubble Machine, Moe Berg, the explosion of social media and frozen facial expressions.

What was the biggest fun during the making of the last album?

This was the first James Clark Institute album to have the bed tracks recorded live off the floor with the live band (with the exception of me on drums). That was great fun indeed! Most of my acoustic guitar parts were played on a 1954 Gibson J-45…More fun! Also, the photo session for the album sleeve was super-duper fantastic, working with a Tornado Bubble Machine! Can it possibly get any more fun?

 

At what point, during writing, rehearsing, recording, did you knew you were on to something special?

 

The band had been playing the majority of the songs live for a year or more before the recording began so I was really confident that we had a strong collection of songs. When Moe Berg signed on as producer, I knew that the record would be magical. He had some brilliant arrangement ideas. Everyone played and sang their hearts out on this album. I feel blessed to have worked with such talented people.

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The music industry has changed a lot (or so they say). What did it bring you? And what not?

The explosion of social media has certainly helped with having my songs heard by a much larger audience than ever before. “Yesterday’s Misadventures” is my fourth independent release. The growth of the platform between my last release and this new one has been gigantic. But with all of the positivity and opportunities that the new industry offers, I have to say that I truly miss the mystery of the music artist during the days before the internet. Back when you had to wait until the new issue of “Creem” magazine arrived to read about your favourite pop stars.

She tells you she will decide on a 5-song-mix tape if there is going to be a second date. Which 5 would you put on?

 

The Beach Boys – God Only Knows

Glen Campbell – Wichita Lineman

George Harrison – What Is Life

The Kinks – Waterloo Sunset

The Zombies – Care Of Cell 44

Bonus Track! Harry Nilsson – You’re Breaking My Heart

 

How will 2017 look like?

 

The year began with the release of the third music video from “Yesterday’s Misadventures”. “Charlie Schulz Was Always In Love” was shot mostly outside on the coldest day in January, as you may be able to tell from some of the band’s frozen facial expressions.

Since then it’s been a steady stream of both solo and full band live shows around Toronto. Due to a family member’s health crisis, the tour isn’t going to happen this year. Hopefully next year! I’m currently in song writing mode and conjuring up the next album. Meanwhile, a fourth music video from “Yesterday’s Misadventures” is being discussed.