Music as a mode of catharsis, especially during the past two years, has become vital it seems to both artist and audience. For the Philadelphia-based band The Districts, their most recent record was their way of unpacking and tackling the issues plaguing America and the world today.
Recently, we caught up with Rob Grote — vocalist and guitarist for The Districts — about their new record The Great American Painting as they get set to perform at The Asbury Lanes on Saturday November 27.
The Great American Painting tackles a number of issues that plague America and the world as we know. Did you find this writing and creative process to be cathartic or did you find it frustrating to write about these issues?
Rob Grote: Both, to be honest. The state of the world can be frustrating to process, but the catharsis of writing about it is freeing. Music has always been a place where I engage with difficult feelings.
Can you explain why this was the direction you wanted to go lyrically?
Rob Grote: My work isn’t all autobiographical, but it is usually informed by what’s going on in my life at a given time. Last year was a fraught and socially complex time, so it felt natural to focus on these things.
How does The Great American Painting stand out from the rest of your catalog — both sonically and lyrically?
Rob Grote: The record really captures our performances as a band and many of the strengths of our group. The production is one of the clearest recordings we’ve done as well. Lyrically, there is a heavy focus on the anxious times we’re living in.
Can you talk about Joe Chiccarelli’s influence on the album and why you tapped him to produce the record?
Rob Grote: Our label had suggested him to us and he really helped bring a clarity to the songs and arrangements, showcasing the arrangements in a smart way.
What do you want your audience to get out of/feel after they’ve listened to this record?
Rob Grote: I hope they find in it a safe place to feel hope and an emotional release.
You’ll be playing the Asbury Lanes on November 27, can you talk about performing in Asbury and/or New Jersey and what it means to the band, especially since you’re a Northeast band?
Rob Grote: Asbury Park is awesome. I have family in New Jersey and try to make it to the silver ball museum every time I’m in town. We love playing our home region.
For anyone who’s never listened to The Districts before, but is reading this interview and discovering the band for the first time — what song would you recommend they check out on a streaming platform in order to fully appreciate what The Districts are all about and why?
Rob Grote: You should check out “Do It Over” off of our upcoming record. It’s a nice middle ground with elements that stretch across our catalog.
What are your plans and goals for the rest of 2021 and early 2022?
Rob Grote: We’re going to be releasing this new record and touring a whole bunch! Hope to see you at the shows. Thanks!
