Podcast: Play in new window | Download
Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS
One Mand Band: McDougall brings a mix of folk, punk, blues and jazz with whatever happens to be avaialble, whether it’s guitar, drums or banjo, and often in combination.
Stream or download Episode #74: Episode 74 w/ McDougall
He’s well known on the West Coast for his “one-man band” act, banging on a drum kit while singing, strumming a guitar or banjo or blowing into a harmonica. But Scott McDougall (aka McDougall) has musical ideas that stretch well beyond the limitations of what he can play all at once.
On his new album, “Reaching For The Light,” McDougall took a fresh approach. He explained his thinking to our hosts on Episode #74 of That Much Further West Podcast, saying, “I’m not gonna think about genre. I’m not gonna think about instrument limitations. I’m just gonna do what’s in my head.”
The results are stunning, and that’s why we were thrilled to have McDougall into The Helm as guest on our latest podcast. A super talented and genial gent, Scott talks about the process of recording the new record, playing nearly all the instruments while working with mixing engineer Jon Burbank and performing at his record release with a full band. And while he continues to perform as a one-man band, he said he also finds satisfaction in working collaboratively, as he has on other side projects.
McDougall laying down the goodness in The Helm.
On this episode, McDougall demonstrates how all he needs is a guitar or a banjo to deliver the goods. He performs three stellar live performances, showing off his playing abilities and a terrific talent for word play and melody.
He also talks about his upbringing in a religious household in California, his discovery of punk music and the influence of other genres on his musical development. His choice of songs by Tom Waits, Charles Mingus and Bad Brains illustrates those wide-ranging influences.
You can pick up McDougall’s new album at your local record store and at all the usual places online. Be sure to grab a copy and follow all things McDougall at his website.
In the meantime, whether its an introduction or a furthering of your love for McDougall, enjoy Episode #74! Here’s the playlist:
Roads, McDougall
This Very Hour (Live In The Helm), McDougall
Cut Loose, McDougall
Tango Till They’re Sore, Tom Waits
Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting, Charles Mingus
Sailin’ On, Bad Brains
Broken Wheels (Live In The Helm), McDougall
Leaning On The Everlasting Arms, McDougall
Cutting The Grass/Early On The Hill (Live In The Helm), McDougall