Kuestionnaire: Hot Lava
Wednesday, June 3rd, 2009
“Lavalogy,” the 2008 release from the indie pop quartet Hot Lava is without an doubt one of the most underrated records of last year. Bolstered by the band’s production, the second taster of the album, ‘Apple+Option+Fire’, is a delightfully off-kilter riposte, a jaunty flying-V in the faces of people who think they have the band all figured out. With a playfully treated vocal lifelessly intoning the threatening refrain before abruptly giving way to an anthemic, full-bodied singalong. The rest of the album walks a similar tightrope of melody and mayhem. Lavalogy pulses with life, it is bursting at the seams with energy and vitality, and shot through with warmth and excitement and wonder.
This week, founding member Allison Apperson answers the Kuestionnaire and shares a surreal moment at her greatest concert…
1. Of all the bands/artists in your CD/record collection, which one is your most cherished?
I don’t know how to answer this. See the next question.
2. What have you been listening to lately?
Lou Christie, The Breeders, The Beach Boys, The Tammys. The Pretenders, The Cardigans.
3. What’s your favorite local band?
There’s a sweet band in Richmond called Snack Truck. They have two drummers, an out of this world guitarist and a really, really solid bass player. They’re the best live band in town and could take over the world.
4. What was the last show you attended?
I saw Mates of State last week. They sounded BIG.
5. What was the greatest show you’ve ever been to?
When I was 15 I saw No Doubt at the 930 club. It was my first concert ever. We were up front and later got to meet the band. It was kind of unreal. Both Gwen and I had braces.
6. What show are you looking forward to?
Enon are playing at a bowling alley in Richmond…YES!
7. What musician would you like to hang out/work with for a day?
Kim Deal. She’s got a lot of knowledge to impart.
8. What four albums you would bring to a deserted island?
That Dog – Retreat From The Sun and three others I’d never heard before. At least I’d have something to do then.
9. Would you call yourself a music geek?
No, not at all. Just a geek.
10. Any favorite music-related videos/DVDs you own?
A Mighty Wind.
11. What’s the last book you read?
I tried to read “Wicked” but it was really bad, I can’t do fiction. I’m reading a book called “No Logo” now, it’s about branding and design ethics, etc.
12. Do you prefer live performances or recording in the studio?
I like recording better. Playing live is such a bummer sometimes. Recording can be fun and rewarding and done on your own time.
13. Any embarrassing moments on stage you’d like to share?
My shirt popped open like 500 times at a show we played with Matt’s old band (our keyboard player). It was before he joined Hot Lava and instead of telling me about it he just laughed. Thanks, jerk.
14. Any favorite tour locations?
The Back Cat, D.C.
15. Lastly, what have you done today?
I’ve been at work all day!@!@!@!@#$!@$!@
Hot Lava – JPG in the Sun
Snack Trcuk – presence charm
