If you are a fan of We Are Augustines you will know their history. First coming to life with ‘Book of James’ followed by the incredible ‘Chapel Song’ released over a year ago. We managed to get some time with bassist Eric Sanderson to talk about the luxury of sleep, what they are listening to at the moment and album number two.
US: Where are you and what have you being doing today?
ES: Today I slept late, recovering from a 10 hour travel day from Seattle yesterday. This last week in Seattle we were demoing songs for the new record. The last session ended at 4:30 in the morning, at which time we took Billy directly to the airport to fly to London. I was fortunate to get three hours sleep before my trip. When I am done with this interview I will continue editing the recordings we did in preparation for the mix. I would love to share more about the songs, but I have to keep that secret for now…
US: How do you see your own level of success?
ES: I used to think that success was based on your accomplishments. When our last band broke up, I realised that accomplishments come and go. Mother Teresa defines wealth through how much love you have in your life. For the last few years I have been rating success through my sense of Joy. But that sense is a verb. There are times when I am so tired it’s hard to be connected, even when doing joyful things. Reflecting on those times keep me focused on what’s important in life. We can’t always feel a certain way. Life is a constant – experience, reflection, experience, reflection, always with the strive towards happiness and joy. At this moment I am filled with joy.
US: What have you got coming up for the rest of the year?
ES:We are touring the UK and Europe for all of October. Then continuing work on the new record.
US: So how has the process on writing for album no two been going?
ES: We’ve all been writing and playing every day to develop new places to go. I have been learning new instruments and trying to become even more comfortable with older ones. After 16 months of touring there are lot of experiences to reflect on as we move forward. Each member of the band has their own personal goals of what they want to bring to the next record. So far we couldn’t be more excited about how everything is developing.
US: Are there any bands around at the moment that are getting you excited?
ES: Unequivocally, Charles Bradley. Charles has been an inspiration to us since his record came out. We listen to him frequently and used his music to open our shows throughout most of the year. A few months ago we shared the stage with Charles at a festival in Belgium. He and his band gave one of the most powerful performances I have ever seen. Friends of ours that had never even heard of him were brought to tears at moments. If you ever get a chance to see him, drop everything and go.