fbpx

Luther Russell Talks New Album ‘Medium Cool,’ Big Star’s Jody Stephens, Not Having Bar Mitzvah

[additional-authors]
February 26, 2019
Luther Russell – Photo by Jim Newberry

In his three decades of making music, Luther Russell has been all sorts of places with all sorts of artists. As a teenager, he was part of The Bootheels alongside a then-teenaged (and future Wallflowers frontman) Jakob Dylan. Russell’s 1990s band The Freewheelers was signed to both DGC Records and American Recordings. Since then, Russell has co-written songs for Weezer, toured in Robyn Hitchcock’s backing band, and been one-half of Those Pretty Wrongs alongside Big Star drummer Jody Stephens.

For those new to the Luther Russell scene, last year brought the U.S. release of “Selective Memories,” a 41-song compilation — including 25 previously-unreleased songs — including tracks done with the aforementioned Dylan and former Black Crowes guitarist Marc Ford. 2019 has already brought the release of “Medium Cool,” Russell’s latest solo album, as produced by Jason Hiller and featuring appearances by Danny De La Matyr and the Eel’s Derek Brown.

I had the pleasure of doing Q-and-A with Luther Russell himself about “Medium Cool” and more. The interview has been edited for space and clarity.

Jewish Journal: “Medium Cool” is your new solo album. How long did you spend making it?

Luther Russell: All in all, it wasn’t too long in pure studio time, but I was terribly busy during the period of trying to finish it. The basics of the rock stuff and most of the vocals were done in two days, but overdubs and mixing took a while indeed. 

JJ: What was the first song you wrote for “Medium Cool?”

LR: I don’t really recall, but probably “Deep Feelings.” It set the tone, I think.

Do you have a favorite song on “Medium Cool?”

LR: I think “Talkin’ To Myself” because it sort of turned out how I wanted and conveys the emotion intended.

JJ: “Medium Cool” promotion aside, what’s coming up for you otherwise? More activity with Those Pretty Wrongs?

LR: Yes, we [Those Pretty Wrongs] just released a 7” on Burger Records, which is two new songs from our new record, and is our second 45 with that label. It’s called “Time To Fly” b/w “A Day In The Park” and it’s a step forward for us. The full-length should be available in the next few months!

 

JJ: Speaking of Those Pretty Wrongs, how did you and Jody first meet?

LR: We met in 1992, introduced by The Freewheelers’ A&R man when we were signed to Geffen [Records]. Heady days of the music biz. I was already a massive Big Star fan, so that was really cool to become friends with Jody. We have remained friends since and never entertained playing music together until about six years ago.

JJ: Speaking of Jody, you’ve worked with a lot of musical icons over the years. Who’s left on your “must work with” list?

LR: I’d sincerely like to work with Don Everly. That would be a dream.

JJ: What do you remember about your bar mitzvah?

LR: I did not have one. My family was not very religious, though of course, I’m Jewish by ethnicity on both sides. And by [my] sense of humor…

JJ: When not busy with your career, how do you like to spend your free time?

LR: Honestly I just like to hang out with my dogs and read books. Or listen to a favorite podcast.

JJ: Finally, Luther, any last words for the kids?

LR: If I were giving advice to those that are young, I would say just try not to be petty, see the big picture. Look for the good in folks and don’t be afraid to say “yes” and just try things, otherwise, you’ll never find out if it was meant to be. Don’t succumb to irrational fears.

More on Luther Russell is online.

Did you enjoy this article?
You'll love our roundtable.

Editor's Picks

Latest Articles

Difficult Choices

Jews have always believed in the importance of higher education. Today, with the rise in antisemitism across many college campuses, Jewish high school seniors are facing difficult choices.

All Aboard the Lifeboat

These are excruciating times for Israel, and for the Jewish people.  It is so tempting to succumb to despair. That is why we must keep our eyes open and revel in any blessing we can find.  

More news and opinions than at a
Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.

More news and opinions than at a Shabbat dinner, right in your inbox.