Primitivist glam rock at its hip-shaking, Iggy Pop best. We spoke to lead singer Charlie about the importance of glamourousness.
There seem to be a lot of new ‘guitar bands’ kicking around at the moment but Charlie Boyer and The Voyeurs with their infectiously catchy 70’s art punk CBGB vibe are the latest offering from the label that brought us the krautrock-inspired Toy and neo-psychedelic Temples.
Ahead of their debut album ‘Clarietta’ we talk to front man Charlie about the bands dangerous musical influences, recording with Edwyn Collins, and the essential act of being glamorous.
How did you all meet and what inspired you to create a band?
We all met around London and this is the band I’ve always wanted to make.
You’ve cited The Modern Lovers, The Ramones and Television as major musical influences. Is there something about them you are trying to renew and recreate with CB&TV?
Those bands are big influences. I like that they sound dangerous, and primitive, but nothing is wasted because they are very concise. I would say that’s what I am excited by as opposed to trying to recreate a particular group or a particular year.
The term ‘guitar band’ is being thrown about a lot lately, how would you best describe CB&TV’s sound?
We use guitars; I wouldn’t say we are a guitar band. I want all the instruments to work together and play the song. That’s all they are for.
You’ve talked about being glam, and your new single’s called ‘Be Glamorous’, how important is being glamorous to CB&TV? What does it mean to be glamorous?
I think glamour is really important, not just glitter and feathers but this other thing that some songs and groups have. I think it’s a bit of danger again – a band like Jesus and Mary Chain are so glamorous… but without any of the cliché.
You are receiving some excellent reviews for your shows, what’s the best thing about your live shows for you?
There’s still a lot to do. We’ve only just recently got our own amps. I think when we start touring our album properly this spring and summer things are really going to grow. I think we will be a powerful group live.
What was it like working with Edwyn Collins in the production of ‘Clarietta’, your forthcoming album?
It was perfect. We had 15 days to record and mix an album with Edwyn Collins. He would wander between the different rooms humming ideas or already talking as he walked in.
We’re also big fans of your Heavenly label mates TOY and Temples, what other current bands are you really into?
Yes, the Heavenly bands are really good. Especially TOY. There’s a new group called Telegram I like.
What’s the best story you have from touring with TOY?
One that can’t be repeated.
Charlie, you’ve been quoted saying: “I have strong ideas and I want to work quickly.” It sounds impressive. What should we expect in the future from CB&TV?
I think everybody thinks they have strong ideas, and nobody works slowly on purpose.
Charlie Boyer and The Voyeurs’ new single ‘Be Glamorous’ is out May 20th on Heavenly Recordings, and their debut album Clarietta is out May 27th. charlieboyerandthevoyeurs.bandcamp.com
Words: Laura Isabella