Episode 128: Steve Instasi (Black Beach)

Though post-punk unit Black Beach was officially born in 2012, Steve Instasi, bassist Ben Semeta and drummer Ryan Nicholson had already been playing together under different names. In fact, Ben and Steve have been playing together in various bands since Steve was 12. So Mail Thief (out this Friday on Best Brother Records) is certainly far from the trio’s first rodeo. But while the band already have several releases under their belts, Mail Thief is Black Beach’s first collaboration with a label (thanks to the band linking up with Best Brother Records). With Mail Thief channelling strains of The Birthday Party, as well as longstanding inspirations like The Fall and The Stooges, Steve joins me to discuss the record, how the band’s sound has evolved over the years and tales from many years of performing and touring. And on the topic of tours, Black Beach will be playing along the East Coast of the US from the 1st of April, preceded by an album-release show on Saturday the 21st of March at Deep Cuts, Medford, MA (supported by Pinklids, Nice Guys and Dinos). Incidentally, on the 4th of April, Black Beach will be sharing a stage with Luna Honey, whose Maura Pond appeared on this podcast all the way back on episode 47—if you haven’t already given that interview a whirl, the might like to do so. She’s great and they’re great. For all Black Beach links and to listen to and pre-order Mail Thief click here. Check out the Best Brother Records catalogue here. Thanks to Joe at Stereo Junk PRCheck out my latest album ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Real Silence on Drama Recorder⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠My music on AmpwallPodcast artwork and logo: Get A Real Job KidIntro music: “Detachment” by Tom Osman This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tomosman.substack.com