Interview: MILLY
MILLY by Gilbert Trejo
To say that we loved MILLY's latest album Your Own Becoming is an understatement. Its West Coast emo-infused shoegaze sound is something else, offering a vulnerable insight into the travails of a modern-day mentality that so many of us face. Each track resonates with raw emotion and introspection, creating a sonic landscape that is both haunting and comforting. So, when we were presented with an opportunity to chat with the band, we jumped in with both feet first.
With Your Own Becoming already making waves, MILLY are gearing up to embark on a tour with notable acts like Fiddlehead, Gel, and Basement. We were eager to dive into the creative process behind their new album, exploring how personal crises and daily rituals influenced their songwriting. The band's evolution since their debut has been remarkable, and their collaboration with renowned producer Sonny DiPerri has only elevated their sound. In our conversation, we delve into the stories behind their powerful tracks, the challenges they faced during recording, and the meticulous preparations for their upcoming shows. Join us as we uncover what fans can expect from MILLY's electrifying live performances and the journey that brought them here.
Congratulations on the release of Your Own Becoming how does it feel to have the album out in the world?
Thanks! It feels awesome and surreal.
Can you tell us about the journey and inspiration behind the album, especially considering its evolution from your previous work on Eternal Ring?
We began bonding as a group towards the end of 2022 and it set us up to have a 2023 of working together and writing songs. We wanted to focus more than ever before on songwriting. That paired with a couple tours, finding new music, some life events/changes, and meeting Sonny (DiPerri - Nine Inch Nails, Narrow Head, My Bloody Valentine) our producer all clashed and out came Your Own Becoming.
How did working with Sonny DiPerri impact the final sound of the album?
He really pulled us together and made us feel like we were worth more than we thought. He had some great ideas from a songwriting standpoint and kept us on a strict rehearsal schedule. It was awesome. He's a great friend.
The press has compared your sound to bands like Hum and Sunny Day Real Estate. How do you feel about these comparisons, and how have these bands influenced your music?
We like both of those bands a lot so, it's cool. Hum's big guitars/instrumentals with low-key vocals definitely has influenced how we do it. Sunny Day's drum parts and guitar interplay and emotion all inform us too.
"Drip From The Fountain" is one of your most infectious tracks. What was the creative process behind this song, and why did you choose it as a lead single?
“Drip From The Fountain” was the final song we finished for the record. It came out super last minute. We needed one more poppy song. It really surprised us by the time vocals were done so it felt cool to have it be the lead single. It definitely feels like the freshest direction we've taken.
You've mentioned that this album marks a more collaborative effort within the band. How did this change in approach affect the writing and recording process?
We all took on specific roles and responsibilities and made sure we were talking a lot. I'd never do it a different way again probably so it shows that it worked for us.
"Running The Madness" and "Bittersweet Mary" have received praise for their intensity and emotional depth. Could you share the stories behind these songs and what they mean to you personally?
Both songs touch a lot on fear and anxiety, things that I feel deeply a lot of the time.
Were there any particular challenges or breakthrough moments you experienced while creating Your Own Becoming?
There were a fair amount of challenges, especially centered around vocal parts. Me and Sonny worked super hard on a couple of the song's melodies which I'd never done before that deeply. I think it definitely paid off.
How did your experiences touring with bands like Teethe and waveform influence the sound and energy of the album?
Both groups are friends of ours and it's been inspiring to watch them grow. We toured with Teethe in the middle of writing the record and it really got me feeling rejuvenated on music.
If you could listen to one song from Your Own Becoming again for the first time, which one would it be and why?
Prolly “Past The Glow” cuz it's my favorite one.
You have an upcoming tour with Fiddlehead, Gel, and others. How are you preparing for these shows, and what can fans expect from your live performances?
We've been hitting the rehearsals super hard. They can expect a sober athletic approach to the live show.
You're playing at iconic venues like Troubadour and Hollywood Palladium. How does it feel to be performing at these venues, and do you have any special plans for these shows?
It is so exciting.. both are bucketlist venues for us. The other 3 guys grew up in LA so it's a big deal we're playing the Palladium. I've been listening to Dinosaur Jr live at the Palladium lately to get excited.
How do you approach crafting your setlist for different types of venues and audiences?
We like to make things move quickly and sometimes alter tempos and what not.
Are there any cities or venues on this tour that hold special significance for the band?
We have a lot of love for Atlanta. Nico went to school in Ohio so we're looking forward to that. Playing Louisville for the first time sounds cool.
What have you been listening to lately? Are there any particular sounds or artists you're loving right now?
I've been listening to a lot of Lemonheads and Juliana Hatfield. I also have been enjoying Matthew Sweet and The dB’s.
Finally, if you could listen to one song again for the first time, what would it be?
“Judy” by The dB’S
Your Own Becoming by MILLY is out now via Dangerbird Records. Catch them on tour across the USA on various dates this July, August, and October.
