Tim McGovern is a local musician who has made good. Formerly of the Syracuse bands “Surprise Package” and “Page One”, Tim is now a member of “The Pop”, who record for Arista Records. Tim and fellow member David Swanson chatted with us about The Pop, and the LA music scene.
Q – Why is LA so receptive to the “New Wave” movement?
McGovern – It’s real trendy out here, and if it’s happening, people will go out and see it.
Q – What’s new about “New Wave”?
Swanson – The music is faster, sped up like all other rock beats. Part of “New Wave” comes from “Punk”, which follows the grander scheme of musical change.
Q – Is this group considered “New Wave”?
McGovern – Our music is different. It doesn’t sound like anything I’ve heard before.
Swanson – We are reasserting the basic rock and roll values, interesting, short songs.
Q – Is it tough for a non-recording act to get bar work in LA?
McGovern – It’s as hard as Chinese arithmetic.
Swanson – You create your own venues by putting out singles, and doing independent concerts. Then, if you’re good, hopefully a record deal will come through.
Q – And the recording contract means the end of your problems?
McGovern – Everybody thinks that the record deal means your troubles are over, but really they’re just beginning.
