Listen Up Manchester recently caught up with Rob from Augustines on their year, current tour and playing Manchester - here's what he had to say:

 

 

LUM:  From what I gather, there have been some tough times both for the band and in your personal lives, but Augustines now seem to be going from strength to strength, how does it feel to now be getting the success and recognition you deserve?

 

Rob:  We've definitely been getting some encouraging praise which is always nice but there is still a long way to go. We've always been in this for the long haul and we know how tough it is to have a long career in music. But to see our music resonating with people is extremely rewarding. I really enjoy talking with folks after the show, and seeing that they get something out of it is the best part for me. 

 

 

LUM:  You started off this year with your new album being released in February, how has 2014 gone for you and what has been the response to the album?

 

Rob:  Like I said, it's been great. You never know how the 2nd record is gonna go, or how well it's going to be recieved. But thankfully it's gone well. 

 

 

LUM:  What words would you use to describe the Augustines album?

 

Rob:  Hopeful, heartfelt, cinematic and passionate. 

 

 

LUM:  How was writing and recording this album compared to Rise Ye Sunken Ships? Did you find it easier in general, or was it tough to follow up on Rise?

 

Rob:  Rise was recorded over a period of approximately 2 years, in different studios and time zones. That was circumstantial. I wasn't part of the set up in those days but the approach we took for Augustines was a lot more streamlined and we spent all in all 12 weeks recording/writing that record. You never know how well a record is going to be recieved so there were certainly nerves and to follow a special record like rise was always gonna be challenging. 

 

 

LUM:  We are looking forward to your return to Manchester, playing at the Cathedral next week (1stDecember), are you looking forward to playing here? Do you have any memories of playing Manchester or does life on the road all blend into one memory?

 

Rob:  Actually my memory is pretty good, believe it or not. I don't remember every show but I can get fairly close. My favorite manchester show was at night and day! That went off. The Cathedral is legendary and we can't wait to play that show. We've heard nothing but great things. 

 

 

LUM:  I was at the Night & Day gig and can confirm it was an amazing night - one of my favourite gigs. How do you find playing to UK audiences compared to audiences back in the US?

 

Rob:  Every show is unique to be honest. Some cities go crazy, some are a little more reserved. Both countries have that in common. 

 

 

LUM:  From seeing you several times before you seem to be a band who really give it everything when you play live, do you find touring a draining experience?

 

Rob:  Yeah it's tough but I wouldn't change it for the world. It consists of a lot of hard work but it comes with territory. We get to do something very special every night. 

 

 

LUM:  I heard you have a documentary in the pipeline – how did that come about and when can we expect to see it?

 

Rob:  Well, we are filming now and that will continue into next year. It's hard to say when it will be released. We were approached by Todd Howe and big vulture and a kickstarter project was launched... And it's grown from there. 

 

 

LUM:  What music have you been currently listening to on the tour bus?

 

Rob:  All sorts of stuff to be honest. Jonsi, the new year, Agnes Obel... Various types of African music.... We have quite a few bodies in the bus so we all take turns to dj so always a nice variety. 

 

 

LUM:  You must have seen a fair few other bands play live over the years, who are the best live bands you have seen?

 

Rob:  Yeah. I'd say MIA, elbow, the Maccabees to name a small few but The Prodigy blew me away when I saw them in NY. 

 

 

LUM:  What is in store for 2015 for the band?

 

Rob:  We'll be writing a new record and getting involved with the documentary and if all goes well, we'll be back in Europe for the summer.