The last time I interviewed Goliation, November of 2009, they were literally a garage band. Or was it a laundry room band? I sat in on part of a practice, heard some really rough demos, and chatted with them out on the patio (they were mostly still living at home at the time). I remember at the time being most impressed with the "feel" (for lack of a better term) with which they played. Sure some of them had had some musical training here and there, but to make the leap from rote recital to instinctively playing in a complex poly-rhythm/multimeter composition, to have a grasp of the power of dynamics, and above all an understanding of how to properly play with other musicians -- sitting out at times; stepping up at times -- well, maybe for one or two guys, but certainly not for an entire band. When I learned they were planning to start work with a producer, I was both enthused at the possibilities, but quietly saddened at the prospect that a more-refined ear would somehow cull the unbridled experimentation and innovation of a great band.
Three years later, this interview anachronistically plugs the release of what was then their upcoming CD, Pretend It's Not Happening, which allayed any fear I may have had about someone else tampering with a band that I loved. Goliathon still remains a force to be reckoned with. Sure, the compositions are a bit tighter, the sound is a bit more refined, but the willingness to experiment, while kept a bit more accessible, is still first and foremost. No longer a bunch of kids in a garage, Goliathon are now serious players in the local scene, commanding respect and attention from several of their peers, occasionally on this show. I look forward to seeing what the next year brings them.
Links referenced in the show:
