Blaine Duncan & The Lookers didn’t know if a second album would ever come together, but after more than two years of hard work, “When She Dies” is set to be released May 1.
Duncan said the first album for Blaine Duncan & The Lookers was different because at that point in time, The Lookers were comprised of different members. The album was also mostly self-produced. This time, Elliot McPherson produced “When She Dies,” and a different set of band members play backup on the album.
Adam Ridgway, drummer for The Lookers, said the production and recording of the album was more focused and intentional than that of the first, and this has helped the group to work on crafting the music around Duncan’s stories and doing what feels right for the song.
“Elliott had a feel for how he wanted Blaine’s songs to be arranged, as well as which instruments to use to achieve a certain sound and presentation,” Ridgway said. “This allowed Blaine’s songwriting and lyrics to really be the highlight of the album.”
Duncan describes the album as more folk, country and rock than the group’s previous album.
“The Lookers’ first album is like this straight ahead rock CD with some twang in there,” front man Duncan said. “‘When She Dies’ is more folk with some noise throughout, though it’s noise that never takes away from the songs, I don’t think. The first album is raw; this album is more methodical.”
Ridgway said the new album has elements of rock ‘n’ roll, and elements of psychedelic/noise rock, but that it is neither of those things entirely.
“I think it’s pretty obvious that Blaine’s from the South,” Ridgway said. “So are the rest of us and we embrace that as much as possible, but to call it southern rock would not only be a gross understatement, it’s also very cliché. Bottom line is, Blaine’s sort of odd voice and storytelling ability set him apart from anything else out there.”
Along with the subject of death, Ridgway said the record touches on many relatable human experiences.
“This record has songs about being a bad person, fake love, partying, bad clothing choices, infidelity, violence and death,” Ridgway said. “But it’s definitely not a downer. It picks you up and puts you right back down a few times. I think any normal open-minded person can find something that strikes a chord.”
To promote the release of the album, the band will be playing at Green Bar Friday, as well as a number of other engagements in the Tuscaloosa, Birmingham, Huntsville and Mobile, Ala., areas, including a spot on the lineup for South Sounds Music Festival.
“Though the album doesn’t officially release until May 1, we’re giving our local friends and fans a jump start,” Duncan said.
Ridgway said being a Tuscaloosa native, he most anticipates the upcoming show at Green Bar.
“I’m just excited to see who all comes and supports the band’s future,” Ridgway said. “Plus we don’t play Tuscaloosa very often and I’m always excited to play for my friends and family.”
In addition to its full tour schedule, Duncan said Blaine Duncan & The Lookers intends to add a few more shows over the summer to promote its album.
“We are just hardworking folks, and I think it really shows in our live performances,” Duncan said. “All of our band members really devote time, effort and energy to thinking about the songs and learning what it is to make the song as wonderful as it can be. We have a lot of fun being around one another, and that shows on the stage.”
Blaine Duncan & The Lookers will be playing at Green Bar Friday at 10 p.m. It is a 21 and older show. There will be a $5 cover.
