This coming Monday, May 9th, contemporary noise rock legends A Place To Bury Strangers return to Johnny Brenda’s. However, I’m actually far more excited about the opportunity to see Glove, who will be providing direct support. Glove are a four-piece, hailing from Tampa, Florida who, earlier this year, released their Brad Shultz (Cage The Elephant)-produced debut LP, Boom Nights, a cold, dark romp through all our favorite corners of post-punk. They’ve already made sizeable splashes at SXSW and Treefort this year and opened a run of dates for Nation of Language, and after their trek with APTBS, they’ll be opening three giant shows for Jack White this August. I recently got a chance to chat with all four members of Glove (who shuffle duties in the band) about the group’s beginnings and some of their favorite things.
Izzy Cihak: I know this is a really big question but, considering that the band is relatively new, what have been some of the highlights of Glove so far, whether reactions you’ve gotten to the music, or experiences it’s afforded you?
Michelle Primiani: There have been a lot of firsts for us the past couple years: releasing our debut album, first time recording in a proper studio, playing festival stages. Hearing the crowd sing our songs back to us has been a surreal feeling since we’ve been playing some of these songs unreleased for years. I think all of that encompasses some really great memories and we’ve learned a lot from it.
Izzy: I know you’re originally from Tampa, but how did you all actually come together in the first place?
Rod Wendt: Brie and I met Michelle when she shot a music video for our previous music project and we just really got along so we started playing as Glove for about a year before we met Justin. We actually met Justin opening a show for us with a solo project.
Izzy: I really love Boom Nights but my very favorite track is “Family Trip,” which kind of reminds me of Mask-era Bauhaus, and has kind of been on repeat in my apartment. How did that particular track come about? And is it anyone in the band’s favorite, as well?
Rod: For “Family Trip” I had this idea for a caveman-like, primitive drum beat that I wanted to blend with electronics. It’s definitely our most fun (and longest) song to play live.
Izzy: I know that Brad Shultz from Cage The Elephant produced the album. How was it working with him? What do you think he brought to your sound?
Michelle: Brad has infectious energy all around, so I think he helped encourage us and gave some fresh ideas when we were stumped on where to go. He champions smaller bands and has a lot of experience and advice that was invaluable to the recording process. There’s not a negative bone in his body, so it kept spirits high the whole way through.
Izzy: Considering that it is your first LP, I’m curious to ask if you have any particular favorite debut albums of music history?
Justin Burns: I’d have to go with Vintage Violence by John Cale, Beach House’s Self-Titled, or Movement by New Order
Izzy: I really like your music videos for “Modern Toy” and “Personality Change,” in addition to your sense of fashion. What is it that inspires the visual elements of Glove?
Brie Deux: I think film and art plays a big part visually for all of us, but I personally also get a lot of visual and video inspiration from watching old shows from conceptual fashion designers like Rick Owens, Rei Kawakubo, and Martin Margiela. That way if I am to be inspired by someone else’s work at least I know it won’t be coming from someone within music.
Izzy: You actually kick off a month’s worth of tour dates with A Place To Bury Strangers right here in Philly. What can be expected of the live show when you’re here at Johnny Brenda’s, which is actually the best room in the city?
Brie: We’ve never played Johnny Brenda’s so we’re excited to play a new place in Philly. Expect some Boom Nights and some mystery.
Izzy: Finally, what do you have planned for the second half of 2022? I know you’re going to be playing a few huge shows with Jack White. Is there anything else you’re especially excited about?
Justin: Hopefully hopping over the pond.
*Get your tickets here.
