Interviewed by: Jenny Francois
Date Published: 05.14.07

Caleb Boddicker, fresh from our inaugural On The Radar series, answers a few of our questions via email about school, Chicago and playing poker.

 

Tell us more about your debut album?

The album was recorded this past October at Engine Studios in Chicago. Banter Records is releasing the record. I’m really happy with the way everything turned out.

You worked with Brian Deck as a producer on your new album, how did he affect the songs on Big Lionhearted and the Gallant Man?

Brian had a huge impact on the overall sound. He played all percussion, a lot of keys, guitar, and even sang. So he was really involved in the music. Obviously, his production is amazing.

What is your favorite part of the recording process?

I enjoyed the whole experience. The best part was hearing the songs take shape–that was exciting. I also loved the town. Chicago is a very cool place with a lot of stuff going on all the time.

At some point before getting to where you are now, you stepped back to focus on school, do you feel content now with this album and where you are at?

I’m still going to school. The recording and mixing took three weeks so I had to take off fall semester. I love the album. I’m too voracious to be content anytime soon.

What music were you listening to during that period versus present day?

I was listening to a lot of Townes Van Zandt back then. Lately, I’ve been listening to Townes, Leon Russell, Randy Newman, Animal Collective, and John Prine. I’m also really getting into The Rolling Stones–especially live. I’ve been going through piles of their live stuff on YouTube.

Any particular favorite from all the songs you wrote?

Bon Vivant

Tell us about a day in your life?

Lately, I’ve been playing a lot of poker and writing songs.

Any musicians you’d like to work with?

I really would like to work with someone like Iris DeMent, Emmylou Harris, Gillian Welch, or Jolie Holland. A few months ago I wrote a lot of strange duets written that I would like to try out and any one of their voices would be perfect. I saw Iris DeMent play in Iowa City; she was amazing. It would be cool to work with anyone that I listen to. Paul Simon and Leon Russell in the same song would be magic. I’ll have my people get in touch with their people.

Can you tell us about the artwork on the cover of Big Lionhearted and the Gallant Man?

Sure. All CD artwork was done by artist Diane Richey Ward. I’ve never met Diane in person but I really like her art and it fit.

What is your favorite record released this year so far?

I haven’t been listening to much new stuff. The new Arcade Fire and Of Montreal are good.

What’s in the future for Boddicker — Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Touring is next. I have yet to play a real live show. That should be fun. In ten years hopefully I’ve done and seen a lot of cool things. Ten years is a long time.

Anything new out there influencing or inspiring you?

Food.

More on Boddicker

Site: Banter Records
MySpace: www.myspace.com/bodykiller