INTERVIEW: UV Race

If you've heard the tunes that UV RACE exhibit, you'd know that they create some raw garage punk, or as they like to note themselves - "idiot savant punk rock".

Starting out in 2007, the Melbournian six piece started playing gigs and releasing their music via cassette. After moving on up to a vinyl format, they have since released a bunch of 7" singles, a soundtrack to their debut film Autonomy and Deliberation (which they're currently working on the sequel to), a split live casette with Eddy Current Suppression Ring - Live At The Missing Link and their LPs; their debut being self-titled, Homo and Racism.

If you're not too familiar with the band, they're an outfit that sound like they should be a part of Bedroom Suck Records' roster - but aren't. Considering the fact that they're working on their second film, they're always willing to surprise you!

They're all geared up to launch their latest record Racism this Saturday, at Melbourne's Ding Dong Lounge, as well as play alongside Super Wild Horses and The Men for PBS Drive Live next Wednesday, 6th February.

Taking a breather from his busy schedule, we had a super quick chat with Marcus Rechsteiner - the lead vocalist of UV Race.

You've just released your studio record 'Racism'. Describe the writing and recording process behind that.

Usually when it comes to writing songs Al comes up with the guitar part. Then he and Dan work on the structure of the song. I will add lyrics to the song or get input from band mates if needed. As a group we also have general input into the overall sound of the song.

Why was the record titled 'Racism'?

We like to make people think about words and their meanings.

Is there a particular track from the new album that really resonates with the band as a whole?

It's hard to pick one song but I think every one loves playing 'Raw Balls'. It's a very fun and punchy song to play live.

You're set to launch 'Racism' at Melbourne's Ding Dong Lounge. Will you be playing interstate at some point in the near  future?

We are playing the Metro in Adelaide on the 8th of February. That's the only interstate gig at the moment.

UV Race contains members from Eddy Current Suppression Ring and Straightjacket Nation. Do you think the sound of UV Race reflects off these neighbouring bands in any way?

We don't really have a member of Eddy Current Suppression Ring in our band. Mikey has recorded us and joined us on stage but never been a permanent band member. I don't think those bands have affected how we sound. We have always had the attitude to make music we like the sound of as a group.

If you could describe UV Race in three words, what would they be?

From the Sun.

What was the first record you ever bought?

I am not sure but my first ever gig was Hanson at a shopping centre. I was dragged along to it but my sisters.

You released your debut film 'Autonomy and Deliberation'. What started this?

We wanted to have a new creative challenge. We have been recording music for a while now. Making the movie challenged us in a different way.

I read that there'll be a sequel titled 'UV Race Disgrace Space'. What will it be about?

I can't give too much away but it involves space and me being silly again.

What's planned for UV Race for the rest of the year?

We will be working on the sequel for the movie and getting back to playing some gigs and working on new songs.  Also hanging out with our mate Richie 1250.

Words by Hannah Galvin.

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