INTERVIEW: Old Californio release new album, many years in the making
Photo: Old Californio’s new album is Songs From the Sea of Cortez. Photo courtesy of the band / Provided by KG Music Press with permission.
Old Californio, which pulls together many musical influences from their home state, recently released their new album, Songs From the Sea of Cortez, which has been many years in the making. The group, based in Los Angeles, had worked on these songs more than seven years ago, but it took some downtime during this hellish pandemic for them to find the inspiration to finish the project and release some new tunes for their growing fan base.
The new singles off the album are “Cantico Suite” and “Old Californio’s Lonesome Rambling Ways.” Other tunes include “Saint Cecilia,” “Lyre of Orpheus” and “From the Horse’s Mouth.” Their sound is a unique combination of styles — folk like Crosby, Stills and Nash; sweeping like the best of Americana; rocking like a bunch of Paul Simons.
Recently Hollywood Soapbox exchanged emails with the band. Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
How long has this album been in the works?
We started recording the album over seven years ago. We set it aside and picked it up again last spring.
What can your fans expect from these original songs?
Hopefully fans and listeners can expect some simple music that they connect with.
How much has COVID-19 disrupted your musical career?
Covid has been extremely challenging to get around. Luckily everyone has been flexible and chomping at the bits to work.
How would you describe the sound of Old Californi0?
I have always hoped our sound is defined by good musicianship, thoughtful lyrics and harmony.
Do you feel that there’s a ‘California’ sound? What is it?
I think traditionally the California sound is meant to conjure up the sound of the Beach Boys and the Byrds along with surf and Bakersfield honky tonk. I certainly agree with all of that, and I’m sure that shows up in our music. I would also widen that definition to the sounds of the old missions, rancheros and natives that have fashioned myths around mountains, oceans and deserts. (Which is where they took their name from — the ‘Old Californios’ http://bit.ly/2L0TeLA).
What’s the future look like for the band?
We are wide open.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
Old Californio’s new album is Songs From the Sea of Cortez. Click here for more information.
