Introducing East Vancouver’s musician Russell Gendron into the blog’s interview hot seat. He’s the frontman and songwriter for indie folk band BILL JR. JR. whose third album, ‘Homebody’ was released back in January. So I spoke to Gendron about the eight-track project and whether the pandemic impacted the production of the album.
NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2021 treating you so far?
BJ: My pleasure. 2021 has been great thus far. I’ve definitely had to adjust some plans and be at peace with the uncertainty around me but all in all, I’m good.
NLM: You released your album HOMEBODY back in January. What is the public perception on the singles so far?
BJ: It’s been going well thanks. The press’ thoughtful reviews we’ve received for Homebody has been fun to watch roll in and I’ve been packaging up vinyl to post every other week since the album’s release. It sure would have been nice to play some shows however.
NLM: What inspired you to produce the album?
BJ: The idea to make the album was borne from a collaboration at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity during an artist residency. I had a bunch of finished and unfinished songs about Vancouver and the idea of “home” and I joined forces with Dan Nettles and Daniel McNamara in order to bring them to life.
NLM: What is/are your favourite single(s) from the album and why?
BJ: I like “Run Home” because it’s fun to play live and it goes on for a long time.
NLM: So how would you describe the album’s sound to potential fans?
BJ: Hmmmm, pleasant, expansive, emotional and pulsing.
NLM: If you had to feature one mainstream artist on the album, who would it be and
why?
BJ: Is Sufjan Stevens available??? His voice is magical and devastating and I’d love to hear
it blended into this record.
NLM: Did the Covid pandemic present any drawbacks in the production of your
album?
BJ: Covid disrupted the tour we had planned so that was tough to let go of. At this
point, I don’t think that this album will be what we all feel like playing by the time
shows are happening again. Is what it is, we pivoted and I’m happy with how it
went despite the challenges.
NLM: Do you have other project(s) for 2021?
I’ve been tucking myself away in a little cabin this spring to give myself space to write
songs. I’m not sure what that will end up looking like but I’m enjoying the process.
NLM: How can potential fans find you?
BJ: Bandcamp is a great place to listen to and support our music. Otherwise, we’re all over
the internet in all the usual places.
NLM: Finally, any special shoutouts to those involved in the production?
BJ: Daniel Mcnamara and Dan Nettles!
Bill jr. Jr’ s ‘Homebody’ is available now on download and streaming sites.
New Lease Music 