Too often these days, I find that in trying to produce an accurate description of a band’s sound, I end up beating my head against a figurative wall, not especially sure where they might fit in to the vast expanse of available music these days. And although Blue Giant isn’t particularly difficult to classify, the best, most accurate and most succinct description comes from the band itself: “Rock and grass served with blues and sass." I literally could not have said it better.
The influence of country music is undeniable, but it isn’t really prevalent enough for Blue Giant to fall under a “country” label. Formed from members of Swords, The Decemberists and Viva Voce, it would seem that this eclectic group is poised on the edge of something big. Lead vocalist Kevin Robinson possesses an even, smooth voice which is showcased especially well in the anthem-like “Blue Sunshine” and undeniably catchy “Wesley” – both from the band’s self-titled debut album.
Robinson’s wife Anita provides much of the aforementioned sass, with her sweet voice and incredible guitar work providing an interesting layer to this smorgasbord of a band. Kevin Robinson took some time out of his busy schedule for the Deli Portland to discuss Coast To Coast AM, The Black Keys and the future of Blue Giant.
How did Blue Giant come to be?
2008, Anita and I started Blue Giant, mainly as an excuse to play with other people. Start a "proper" band. The results were insanely rewarding so we fired on all cylinders.
Any meaning or story behind the name?
We mashed up Blue Oyster Cult and Gentle Giant. Blue Giant sounded cooler than The Gentle Oysters.
What’s the ultimate goal that you’d all like to see this band progress to?
Touring in a bus would be an attainable goal to aspire to. I don’t know if that’s "ultimate" but it would be really cool to let someone else drive for a change.
What have been the standout high and low moments on tour so far?
High moments on tour: the 45 min to 1 hour you get to play for people who paid to see you perform your songs. Low moments on tour: trying to pay bills.
Where can your fans expect you to progress to as a group?
I think if people like the trajectory we’re aiming at, then they’ll dig the trip that we’ll take em’ on.
What do you listen to in the van on tour?
The usual iPod madness. Every band your fingers can type. Lots of Coast to Coast AM with Art Bell.
Most underrated band of 2010?
The Black Keys. People really need to listen to them. I think they’re really good and could catch on!
What projects do you have in the works that we can look forward to?
I’ve got an ever growing stack of Blue Giant songs – that when we get the green light, we’ll fire that up for the follow up album. It’s been really rewarding writing songs for the band, so I’m well into the third or fourth records’ worth of tunes right now. Just storing them up like a musical squirrel.
—Catch Blue Giant live at the following dates next week:
July 13: On TV! KATU Channel 2 at 9 a.m.
July 13: Music Millenium at 7 p.m.
July 14: Jackpot Records at 6 p.m.
– Arielle Mullen