Performing voodoo and vegetable sacrifices in the Arizona desert, Burning Palms howls away at their self-made “witch rock” that is mad, wild, and everything rock n’ roll should be. They have more balls than most bands out there today, and have this mysticism about them that’s fantastic in a retro sort of way similar to Wolfmother. They just released their self-titled debut on Lolipop Records earlier this year, and are now touring across the country eating bananas, causing mayhem, and kicking ass. We caught up with the band to see how all that’s going and much more.
Simone visited a clairvoyant in Australia back when she was making bedroom demos of our songs and was advised she couldn’t have her palms read as they were on fire. Metaphysically that is… Regardless she may not have learnt what secrets her future held but she got a band name out of the experience
I’ve noticed the amount of bananas in your pictures. Are you guys a fan of the fruit? Or are bananas some big metaphor for life and wanderlust?
Our bananas are both performance art and vital for tour survival, considering gas station nutrition options. Removing the peel and devouring the fruit inside is a daily on-the-road ritual that keeps us sane. Plus we decided we look good doing it.
Do you think “witch rock” will catch on and become a mainstream genre?
Isn’t it already? If not we’re happy to share the Witch Rock title with anyone that would like to wear it… The Horrors, Patti Smith, Destruction Unit, PJ Harvey…?
Does witch rock require any animal sacrifices before or after shows? If so, are goats or chickens more suitable?
We try keep our sacrifices on the down low but no animals are injured in the making of our music. Last night’s ceremony involved some moon cabbage and tofurkey.
Tell us a bit about the new record. Any tracks you’re personally proud of?
The new record was recorded for under $200 in Tucson by our pal Matt Rendon of The Resonars. Super lo-fi, straight to A-dat. We recorded it, weren’t stoked about it, so went straight back and recorded the whole thing again. Now we’re stoked about it. We dig the cinematic vibe of Thorns and Pyramids is probably closest to the vibe of our live shows.
What’s it like in Arizona? Are there fabulous parties in the desert?
Arizona is dreamy, wide-open and rough. We’re sure that there are fabulous parties in the desert but we’re never invited, Tucson hates us.
What’s next for you guys?
We’re finishing up our 5 week national tour then need to raise $$ to record our next album stat… Trying to find a wealthy benefactor to fund our endeavors. Aiming to quit our day jobs next year and just tour infinitely around this fair country making friends and frenemies and having adventures.
More Burning Palms on Bandcamp
Interview by Trevor L. Sensor.
CMJ Dates
10/25 – New York, NY @ Otto’s Shrunken Head
10/25 – New York, NY @ Fat Baby (Official CMJ Showcase)
