213. Jack Cooper Discusses Michael Head Introducing The Strands, The Magical World of the Strands

Send us Fan MailOn this episode, UK-based guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Jack Cooper of Modern Nature introduces Al to the 1997 Michael Head Introducing The Strands album The Magical World of the Strands. Jack talks about how and when he first learned about Head’s work and how he eventually became familiar with The Magical World of the Strands. He explains why he thinks this particular album stands out in Head’s discography and why it has a timeless quality. Jack also discusses Modern Nature’s latest album, The Heat Warps, and the ways in which it is a departure from the band’s prior releases.To learn more about Modern Nature, their music and tour schedule, visit their website at modernnature.band. Also, you can follow the band on Instagram at @m0dernnature and on Facebook at @modernnatureuk.Be sure to sign up for the YMAAA Newsletter at youmealbum.ghost.io. The first four episodes of Bonus Tracks—YMAAA’s subscriber-only podcast series—are now available at patreon.com/youmealbum. More monthly episodes and other good stuff are soon to come. Please consider subscribing! Your support will make it possible for Al to keep this podcast going.To keep up with You, Me and An Album, please give the show a follow on Instagram at @youmealbum.1:18 Jack’s introduction2:11 Jack was first introduced to Head’s music through Shack6:58 Head’s music was never heavily marketed8:54 Jack recalls how he wound up exploring The Magical World of the Strands15:06 Jack explains what makes The Magical World of the Strands stand out among Head’s albums17:32 Al shares his initial reactions to the album20:33 Jack theorizes how Head and the Strands were able to make an album that sounded like it was from a different time23:02 Jack and Al talk about the album’s “horizontal” nature25:42 Al discusses the circumstance in which he did most of his listening to the album27:49 Jack is a fan of Head’s more recent work with the Red Elastic Band33:33 Jack shares his final thoughts about the album36:13 Al sees a link between a comment made by Miki Berenyi and the themes on The Heat Warps38:45 Jack talks about his perception of the U.S. based on his tour experiences41:16 Jack stresses the importance of artists showing solidarity with those who resist the rise of fascism43:37 Al explains why he finds The Heat Warps to be a rewarding listen45:16 Jack talks about the importance of making albums sound cohesive48:39 Jack explains why he referenced a line from “Stairway to Heaven” in “Jetty”54:54 Jack shares the upcoming plans for Modern NatureOutro music is from “Pharaoh” by Modern Nature.Support the show