Cashier No.9 Cashier No.9… With their Cashier No.K9s

Interview: Cashier No.9

Published on March 5th, 2012 | Jonny Abrams

When Rocksucker interviewed Gordo from The Chakras last month, he recommended that we check out Northern Ireland six-piece Cashier No.9; that we did, and so charmed were we by their lush, psych-tinged West Coast pop – which incidentally, understandably, saw them become a part of Bella Union’s sterling roster – that we fired them over some questions, receiving the following set of answers back from guitarist/co-vocalist James Smith.

First, though, listen to this choice cut from their David Holmes-produced debut album To the Death of Fun

“Oh Pity”

Hearty congratulations on a splendid debut album. Do you have material lined up for a second? If so, what can you tell us about it?

There are a lot of new songs on the go. It could go anywhere.

What was it like working with David Holmes? To what extent do you think he dictated the sound of the record?

He was a big part of it, obviously. He did his thing.

How did you come to the attention of Bella Union? Are you fans – or even by now acquaintances – of any of your label mates?

We were already fans of many of their bands, but no, we haven’t met any yet.

“Oh Pity” kind of reminds me of “Hendrix with KO” by Manitoba (erstwhile alter ego of Caribou). Am I at all on the button with this?

We played with Caribou once, haven’t heard this before though. I’m hearing some similarities maybe.

Speaking of which, is the descending piano line towards the end of “Goldstar” a knowing reference to “Oliver’s Army”?

More like “Dancing Queen”.

“Goldstar”

According to your biog, you have been likened to The Flaming Lips and Pavement. Are you a fan of either or both of these? If so, which are your favourite albums by each?

We’re big fans of both. I’d have to say Clouds Taste Metallic by The Flaming Lips and maybe Wowee Zowee by Pavement.

You’ve just been announced as being part of a corking Summer Sundae line-up. Which other acts on the bill do you look forward to seeing?

Definitely PIL, Jonathan Richman and Tune-Yards

Do you know yet which other festivals you might be playing this summer?

We’re doing Green Man, End of The Road and loads more.

Your music was brought to Rocksucker’s attention by Gordo from The Chakras. Are you familiar with their stuff? If so, what do you think of it?

I know they supported Ian Brown and I’ve seen them mentioned a lot but I haven’t heard them yet. Must check them out.

Are there any obscure and/or up-and-coming artists that you’d like to recommend or give a shout-out to?

There’s Robyn G Shiels, he’s good.

Finally, if you were forced to spend the rest of your days in solitary confinement, but were allowed to bring the entire works of five different artists along to tide you over, whose would you choose?

The Beatles, The Doors, The Beach Boys, Phil Spector and White Denim.

James, thank you.

Cashier No.9 - To the Death of Fun

Cashier No.9’s debut album To the Death of Fun is out now on Bella Union. For more information and a list of live dates, please visit www.cashierno9.com

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About the Author

Editor of Rocksucker and the website's founder, Jonny is passionate about the music he listens to, both good and bad, as well as interviewing his favourite musicians.


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