John Dwyer of Oh Sees performing live
For over two decades, John Dwyer has been a pivotal figure in the landscape of garage, psychedelic, and noise rock. His relentless creative energy fuels a multitude of projects, but he is most recognized as the dynamic frontman and driving force behind Oh Sees (previously known under various iterations like Thee Oh Sees, Oh Sees, and Osees). Dwyer’s prolific output and unwavering commitment to sonic exploration have solidified his status as a true innovator in underground music.
Oh Sees recently marked another milestone with their twenty-second studio album, Face Stabber. This release exemplifies their continuous evolution, pushing their distinctive sound into uncharted territories. Seamlessly weaving together elements of krautrock, punk, thrash metal, no-wave, and psychedelia, Face Stabber stands as a powerful testament to Dwyer’s relentless pursuit of the novel and unconventional, a far cry from the more conventional garage rock that marked their beginnings fifteen years prior.
In a candid conversation, John Dwyer discussed his multifaceted career with KEXP, delving into his passion for supporting emerging artists, the inherent tensions between running a record label and leading a band, and the ever-present threat of creative burnout. The discussion even touched upon a question that has intrigued music fans for years: just how many drummers are too many?
The Ever-Evolving Sound of John Dwyer and Oh Sees
From their initial garage rock roots, John Dwyer has consistently steered Oh Sees towards increasingly experimental and genre-bending sonic landscapes. Face Stabber is a prime example of this evolution, showcasing a fearless approach to blending diverse musical styles. The album’s fusion of krautrock’s hypnotic rhythms, punk’s raw energy, thrash metal’s intensity, no-wave’s abrasive textures, and psychedelic’s expansive soundscapes demonstrates Dwyer’s refusal to be confined by genre boundaries. This adventurous spirit is a hallmark of John Dwyer‘s musical journey, ensuring that Oh Sees remains perpetually fresh and engaging for long-time listeners and new audiences alike.
This constant drive for innovation is not limited to studio albums. Oh Sees’ live performances are renowned for their high-energy and improvisational nature, further highlighting Dwyer’s commitment to pushing musical boundaries. Each concert becomes a unique experience, with the band often extending songs and incorporating spontaneous jams, creating a dynamic interplay between the band and the audience. This live energy is crucial to understanding John Dwyer‘s artistic vision; his music is meant to be experienced in its raw, unfiltered form, whether on record or in a live setting.
John Dwyer: Championing Underground Music and Emerging Artists
Beyond his own musical endeavors, John Dwyer is deeply invested in the broader music community, particularly in fostering emerging talent. He has been instrumental in supporting and promoting numerous bands, including prominent names like King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard, Ty Segall, and White Fence. Through his record label, Castle Face Records, John Dwyer provides a platform for artists who share his commitment to originality and experimentation, helping them gain wider recognition and solidify their place within the independent music scene.
Dwyer’s role as a champion for underground music stems from a genuine passion for discovering and sharing unique sounds. He actively seeks out bands that resonate with his own artistic sensibilities, often highlighting artists who are pushing boundaries and challenging conventional norms. His enthusiasm for new music is infectious, and his endorsement carries significant weight within the indie rock community. By using Castle Face Records as a launchpad for emerging artists, John Dwyer not only enriches the music scene but also ensures the continued vitality and evolution of garage, psych, and noise rock genres.
When asked about bands that currently excite him, John Dwyer enthusiastically mentioned Kamikaze Palm Tree, a Los Angeles-based group that impressed him with their live performance. He praised their unique blend of influences, drawing comparisons to the Magic Band while noting their punk-infused energy. Dwyer’s keen ear for talent and his willingness to spotlight lesser-known acts underscore his dedication to nurturing the underground music ecosystem.
Balancing Band Leadership and Record Label Responsibilities
Running Castle Face Records while simultaneously leading Oh Sees presents a unique set of challenges and rewards for John Dwyer. He acknowledges the inherent duality of wearing these two hats, recognizing the distinct skills and mindsets required for each role. While he focuses on artist discovery and creative direction for the label, his partner Matt Jones handles the operational and business aspects. This division of labor allows Dwyer to remain deeply involved in the artistic side of Castle Face, ensuring that the label’s vision remains aligned with his own commitment to unconventional and innovative music.
John Dwyer also recognizes the potential conflicts of interest that can arise from being both a label owner and a signed artist. He openly discusses how he navigates this delicate balance, prioritizing fair treatment for all Castle Face artists, including Oh Sees. His commitment to ethical practices is evident in the label’s approach to artist rights; Castle Face notably does not retain ownership of the bands’ master recordings, ensuring that artists maintain control over their work and receive fair compensation for licensing opportunities. This artist-centric philosophy distinguishes Castle Face Records within the industry and reflects Dwyer’s deep respect for creative autonomy.
The Dynamic Intensity of Oh Sees’ Live Performances and Double Drummers
Oh Sees’ live shows are legendary for their sheer intensity and captivating energy, largely fueled by the band’s distinctive double drummer setup. John Dwyer‘s decision to incorporate two drummers is not merely about volume; it’s about creating a richer, more complex rhythmic texture that enhances the band’s sonic impact. He cites influences from bands like Bomb Machine and Landed, as well as acts like The Grateful Dead and The Allman Brothers Band, all of whom have explored the power of multiple drummers.
The twin-drum attack provides Oh Sees with a unique sonic signature, allowing for intricate polyrhythms and a driving, almost overwhelming percussive force. John Dwyer revels in the sheer power and spectacle of this setup, emphasizing how it amplifies the band’s live performance and creates an immersive experience for the audience. He jokingly dismisses criticisms of having two drummers, viewing it as an essential element of the Oh Sees sound and live experience. For Dwyer, the double drummer configuration is a key ingredient in the band’s ability to deliver consistently thrilling and unforgettable performances.
Burnout, Hearing, and the Relentless Creative Drive of John Dwyer
Despite his prolific output and seemingly boundless energy, John Dwyer acknowledges the realities of burnout and the physical toll of a life dedicated to loud music. He admits to experiencing burnout after tours and relies on downtime activities like video games to decompress and recharge. However, his inherent creative drive quickly pulls him back into music-making. Dwyer operates by the principle of “idle hands,” believing that constant creative engagement is essential for maintaining well-being and staving off negativity.
Hearing loss is another unavoidable consequence of Dwyer’s career in high-volume music. He candidly discusses his long-term tinnitus and admits to not consistently using earplugs during performances, despite acknowledging the risks. While aware of the potential for further hearing damage, John Dwyer remains deeply committed to the live music experience in its rawest form. He humorously frames his hearing issues as a mixed blessing, finding a silver lining in his reduced ability to hear unwanted noise in everyday situations. Even contemplating potential hearing loss in the future, Dwyer’s passion for art remains undiminished, suggesting he would simply shift his creative focus to other mediums like painting should his hearing significantly decline.
Despite the challenges and potential drawbacks, John Dwyer‘s dedication to music remains unwavering. His prolific output, his commitment to fostering other artists, and his relentless pursuit of sonic innovation solidify his place as a vital and influential figure in contemporary rock music. His journey is a testament to the enduring power of creative passion and the rewards of staying true to one’s artistic vision.
Oh Sees are set to perform at Neumos on October 5th and 6th, and fans can also watch their KEXP in-studio session recorded on October 5th. Their 2017 KEXP Gathering Space performance is also available to watch online, offering further glimpses into the captivating live energy of John Dwyer and Oh Sees.
