With a new album out, the fantastically named Music Sounds Better When You’re Stoned, I sat down with Gary Van Miert of The Sensational Country Blues Wonders! to find out all about his cool and creative world.
Although some might think that Music Sounds Better When You’re Stoned is a parody of country music, to me it sounds like a witty love letter to the genre…is that fair?
I think that’s accurate. Before I discovered Hank Williams and Buck Owens, my first exposure to country music was through The Rolling Stones, with songs like “Dead Flowers” and “Sweet Virginia.” Like the Stones, my version of country music is done with a lot of love for the genre and with tongue planted firmly in cheek.
There is something of the cosmic country sound of the late sixties as well as some unabashed pop psychedelia mixed in to the album. What would you say are your inspirations and influences here?
On the country side of things, I would say The Sir Douglas Quintet, Gram Parsons, The Byrds “Sweetheart of the Rodeo” album, and of course ole Hank. My pop psychedelia favorites would be The Beatles, The 13th Floor Elevators, The Jimi Hendrix Experience, and The Jefferson Airplane. Honorable mention goes to the psychedelic pop songs on AM Top 40 radio in the 60s. Bands such as The Strawberry Alarm Clock, The Electric Prunes, and other one-hit wonders. Exile on Main Street looms large on my list of American roots music influences.
What are the main themes running through the lyrics?
The songs on this album are about time, altered states of consciousness, the universe, and mortality. Hopefully, my music conveys a sense of awe and wonder about the universe.
Given that the country world is a more conservative-leaning place and the psychedelia scene perhaps more liberal, who is the album aimed at? Is there a core demographic, or is the album too wayward for that?
I honestly don’t consider a demographic when I make music. I write and record to please myself. Although I like traditional song structure, I try not to impose too many rules or boundaries on myself. If the results are wayward, so be it.
Who else is involved in The Sensational Country Blues Wonders!?
Whoever is playing with me at the moment. I record all the albums with session players. The entire project is my brainchild – the concept and the songs are all my vision.
Are there plans to tour the album, and if so, where are you looking forward to playing?
No plans to tour. The reality is that I would lose money going on tour. It’s not economically viable. I will perform locally to promote the album. If there’s any plan, it’s to conquer the world from my computer chair.
What do you enjoy doing when not making music? What is the perfect downtime or distraction from music work?
When I’m not making music, I’m researching and studying it. I’m listening to music, reading about it, or watching music documentaries. I enjoy hanging out with other musicians. They are my tribe. I also enjoy walking. I do a five-mile walk just about every day.
And what does the future hold? What plans are in place, and where does everything go next?
I hope to continue writing songs and recording albums. That is, if the good Lord is willing, and the creek don’t rise.
Thank you for taking the time to explain a bit about your music, your world and your life.
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