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Life in New York: A Tough Journey
Jack Riley, the lead singer of the band Bedridden, describes his life in New York City as a relentless challenge. While driving back to Brooklyn after a showcase at SXSW, he candidly explains, “New York kicks my ass every day.” The artist’s journey is marked by a series of relocations and the struggle to balance his passion for music with the harsh realities of living in one of the most demanding cities in the world.
His latest album, Moths Strapped to Eachother’s Backs, is a reflection of these tumultuous experiences. Riley reveals that the record captures a sense of chaos and anger, a stark contrast to its melodic sound. He draws parallels to the music of The Smiths, combining catchy hooks with deeper, more somber themes.
From New Orleans to Brooklyn: A Change in Perspective
Originally hailing from Illinois and later moving to New Orleans for college, Riley’s transition to New York was spurred by a desire for growth and a fresh start. He recounts a pivotal moment when he decided to leave New Orleans amidst an impending hurricane, making a spontaneous drive to New York with no place to stay. This decision led to a period of homelessness that lasted for two weeks.
Throughout his journey, Riley juggled his responsibilities as a waiter and band member, realizing that the struggle to make a living in New York is anything but glamorous. Yet, these experiences have enriched his songwriting, providing a plethora of stories and emotions to draw from. As he puts it, “Making a living in New York isn’t a glamorous time,” but it certainly fuels his creativity.
Musical Evolution and Personal Growth
Riley’s artistic journey has evolved significantly over the years. In New Orleans, he was immersed in various hardcore punk bands before transitioning to shoegaze, a genre that allowed him to explore his musical identity more deeply. He acknowledges a past filled with partying and distractions, which ultimately pushed him to seek a more serious approach to musicianship in New York.
His music also draws comparisons to that of J Mascis from Dinosaur Jr., who similarly transitioned from hardcore to a more melodic sound. Much like Mascis, Riley found solace in the artistic community of Philadelphia, which played a crucial role in the development of Bedridden’s sound and style.
Collaborations and Creative Processes
In his pursuit of artistic growth, Riley forged important connections, including one with Doug Dulgarian, the frontman of They Are Gutting a Body of Water. Their collaboration birthed the first EP, Amateur Heartthrob, which encapsulates Riley’s self-reflection and experiences as a self-proclaimed “kind of a jackass.” The EP’s sticky riffs and nostalgic 2000s hooks showcase a youthful exuberance and a penchant for catchy melodies.
For the new album, Riley collaborated once again with producer Aron Kobayashi Ritch, a friend he met through previous relationships. Their partnership enhances the distinct slacker rock sound that defines Bedridden, with Ritch’s expertise bringing a muddy, analog feel to the recordings.
Reflecting on Relationships and Personal Struggles
As Riley discusses the themes of his album, he reflects on his past reliance on others during a tumultuous year. The title Moths Strapped to Eachother’s Backs symbolizes his feelings of being tethered to relationships that may have held him back. “Last year, I was way too reliant on other people,” he shares, illustrating his journey toward independence and self-discovery.
Through his music, Riley hopes listeners can relate to his experiences. “I think a lot of it is relatable,” he says, encouraging fans to connect with the lyrics and find solace in shared experiences. He expresses a desire for those who listen to his music to feel a sense of camaraderie, suggesting, “Maybe one day we can be friends.”
Stay Connected
As Jack Riley and Bedridden continue to carve their path in the music industry, fans can follow their journey through social media and streaming platforms. Check out their latest work on Instagram and listen to their music on Spotify.