Interview with Hutch Harris of 'The Thermals',
by Cannon Riggs
Cannon: When 'The Thermals' first formed, what were your intentions, and did you expect to come this far, as far as popularity is concerned?
Hutch: 'The Thermals' were basically formed when i recorded a bunch of songs on my own, at my apartment in Portland. i wrote all the music and lyrics and played all the instruments myself. these are the songs that became the first Thermals LP, More Parts Per Million.
I really started the band just for fun, then things took off very quickly. soon we were signed to "Sub Pop Records" and were playing to large crowds in europe. frankly i never expected any of that to happen, although i always hoped it would, i think. the band has become far more popular than i ever expected, but i'm very glad it did.
Cannon: I know "The Body, The Blood, The Machine" dealt with Christianity related topics, yet, correct me if I'm wrong, you are an atheist. Which leads me to my next question, what is your view on religion?
Hutch: I don't call myself an atheist. I might be closer to an agnostic but really, I'm a recovering catholic. My view on religion is i think it causes more harm than good. It uses people for money and causes endless pain and suffering.
Cannon: You have switched drummers quite a few times in the past. How did you end up with Westin Glass as your (current) drummer?
Hutch: Our friends in the band "The Big Sleep" recommended Westin. He got in touch with us and auditioned a few times. He is a great drummer with great style so we hired him.
Cannon: Good choice, you guys seem to gel pretty well... Anyways, next question... What are your plans for the future? Touring? New record? Take a break?
Hutch: We are touring every month from now until November and we toured in February April, and May as well. (We'll) Hopefully record a new record at the end of the year.
Cannon: The Thermals are an odd genre of music, what would you describe your genre as? I've heard, Lo-fi, Post Pop-Punk, Grunge.... What would you say??
Hutch: We say NO-fi, post-pop-punk, and neo-grunge.
Cannon: What would your advice be, to kids my age (13-14) that want to make music?
Hutch: Just do it! Not much other advice is needed at this age. Just write songs, learn songs and play songs. Don't worry about trying to "make it" or other BS at this point.
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