Now based in NYC, but originally hailing from Albany, Laveda has steadily evolved from dreamy introspection to gritty, urgent sonic explorations. On their third album Love, Darla, out now, the band creates visceral sounds that mirror the harsh noise and static of the sprawling cityscape. We caught up with Ali Genevich and Jake Brooks to chat about what they loved most about writing and recording Love, Darla, inspirations behind the album, NYC acts they’re loving at the moment and what they’re looking forward to most on their upcoming US tour.

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How would you sum up your new album, Love, Darla in one sentence?

Too much is happening all of the time. -Ali

What was your favourite part about writing and recording Love, Darla?

I had a lot of fun figuring out how these songs were going to work in a band setting. We did it as a group and we were all ready to collaborate. It felt like a limitation at times but I think the songs ended up shining with minimalist production. -Jake

I liked writing with Ableton open. I didn’t do that for all the songs on the record, but I’d say I did for maybe about half the tracks. It allowed for a first thought best thought mentality when it came to layering guitar lines and adding vocal melodies. I didn’t force myself to create any additional shit that wasn’t happening naturally. I knew the band had to finish the songs together and that made the initial writing process a lot more simple and freeing. -Ali

What were you listening to when writing the album?

PJ Harvey’s Rid of Me, a lot of early Sonic Youth and Blonde Redhead, Sparklehorse, Throwing Muses, The Replacements. Oh yeah and pretty much Fugazi’s entire discography. -Ali

If your album could be the soundtrack to any film, what film would it be?

I guess I’d say Natural Born Killers since one of the songs on the record was inspired by the film. The shaky camera work really does something for me. -Ali

What was the first album you ever bought?

I think it was a Jesse McCartney CD, I forget which album it was haha. I had to have been like seven. -Ali

It was a gift but it was Millenium by Backstreet Boys when I was little. -Jake

Who would be your dream band/artist to support on tour?

Probably The Breeders, Unwound, or Mannequin Pussy. - Ali

Is there an album you consider underrated or overlooked that more people should listen to?

Gorse on a hill by School Fair -Jake

Wildflower Soul is one of my favorite records by Sonic Youth. I never really hear people talk about that one. - Ali

You’re heading on tour across the US very soon, what are you most looking forward to?

I’m excited to play LA again. Permanent Records is always such a good vibe. We are playing with Donna and No Swoon and they are both sick bands. -Jake

Probably our show in Austin at Levitation. I’ve heard really cool things about The Mohawk. -Ali

Are there any up and coming local acts in NYC you’re loving at the moment?

I’m a big fan of Wiring, Libby Quinn, and Trophy Wife -Jake

Epoxy, Wiring, Starcleaner Reunion - Ali

You’re from Albany originally. Where would you take a friend visiting Albany for the first time? Any hidden gem spots-food, parks, shops etc. that you think more people should know about?

Naughters in Troy is goated. They’re a diner that stays open late on weekends. Get the Industry Eggplant or a fat stack of blueberry pancakes. Whenever we play a show at No Fun you’ll find us there after. - Ali

Is there anything else you would like the world to know about Laveda?

We’re just a rock band.

Check out Laveda’s new album Love, Darla below and catch them on tour across the US this Sept/Oct at these shows.

Get To Know: Laveda

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