Firstly, Bon Iver is a band, not a person. We know, it's an easy mistake to make. But in fact, it's a four-piece led by front man Justin Vernon. Well-known for their haunting melodies and their critical acclaimed debut album,
For Emma Forever Ago, they released their second album earlier this year, the self-titled
Bon Iver. It went to number one on three different charts in the US, selling 104 000 copies in its first week.
We managed to catch up with guitarist Mike Noyce to chat about music, first kisses and South Africa.
1. From recording in a cabin to commercial success: what's the first thought that crosses your mind when you think about how far you've come?
Probably how much we've grown musically as a band, and how much I've grown, personally, as a result of this experience. It's been one of the most transformative experiences of my life.
2. Many people mistakenly believe that Bon Iver is a one-person affair. Compliment or irritation?
This is definitely an irritation for Justin. But I really don't mind, as I'm a fairly private guy. I definitely wouldn't choose to switch places. That's a bit selfish, but I've seen how tough it can be to live your life with all eyes on you, and it's just not really something I'd wish for myself. It's not something Justin wishes for either, obviously, but he recognises that it's just part of what he does and he's extremely thankful for the support people give. He's good with that stuff.
3. Bon Iver feels as though it plays with different genres in a way For Emma, Forever Ago didn't. What inspired you to mix things up this time around?
I think that Justin approached the writing process completely differently this time around, and that process involved a lot of different musicians, each with their own take on things. Also, from an engineering standpoint, the album is entirely different. It's more of a studio album, and Justin and Brian Joseph (co-engineer of the album) did some remarkable things on the technical end; some really musical things that changed the sound of the album.
5. Like 'Sex On Fire' is for Kings of Leon, is there a particular song that your audiences respond to more than others? Do you find it at all irritating or doesn't it bother you?
Everyone responds to 'Skinny Love', as would be expected. I love that song, and it's nice to have something in your repertoire that you know will get a really strong reaction from people. Sometimes it feels like we have to play it or that a few people in the audience just want to hear that and nothing else, so that can be a bit annoying. But on the whole, people are super-respectful and attentive throughout the shows. They're awesome.
6. Obviously different people interpret your music in their own ways, but do you consider your music to be romantic?
Yup. I think that, ideally, music kind of hyperbolises certain ideas or images in an effort to enable us to see them clearly and gain a bit of understanding. It romanticises those ideas or images. Sometimes people take things too literally, though. I love a lot of music that paints a really black and white picture, but that doesn't mean I reflect that message in my life - more that I see it as a really accurate representation of the way we all feel sometimes, when we're in certain spots and it seems like things just suck, or are perfect, etc. That is a really alive thing, those extremes, and I think that's why people are attracted to them in songs.
7. Describe your music in three words.
So many dudes.
8. What is your favourite song you've ever recorded, and why?
'Beth/Rest, 'cause it rules. That is such a strong, unique and epic song. It's one of the most straight-ahead songs on the album as well, and I love that. It seems like it's a bit of a love-it-or-hate-it thing for a lot of people, which I don't understand, but maybe I'm too close to it.
9. Is there a special someone who inspires your lyrics?
Justin…
10. When was your first kiss? Tell us the story…
Well, we were out on a boat, fishing up in the boundary waters, and it was pretty awesome. A bit awkward. The fish may not have enjoyed it though…
12. What three things do you have to take on tour with you to make you feel at home?
Running shoes, gardening book, and my computer.
13. Regarding tours, we know album sales determine who tours where. But, would you ever come out to play in South Africa?
God, I hope so. I was actually lucky enough to come to South Africa for the 2010 World Cup, and it blew my mind. But I don't think I really had the opportunity to experience the real South Africa with all the World Cup craze, and I'm hoping we get the chance to play. Ayoba!
14. What's next for Bon Iver?
A lot of development with the live show. We've got tons of incredible musicians from all realms of the music world, and it's been a great time so far. It's the tightest thing I've been involved in musically - I am so lucky to be playing with these dudes.
The Bon Iver Pop Quiz
Candlelit dinner or fast food? Candlelit dinner fo sho.
Blonde or brunette? Blonde.
One-night stands or relationships? Relationships.
Party or chill? Chill.
Twitter or Facebook? Facebook.
Love or money? Love.
Touring or recording? Touring in small doses, but after that limit is passed, recording.
Vinyl or iPod? Vinyl. Love it.
'Skinny Love' or 'Calgary'? 'Calgary'
Watch the official music video for 'Calgary' below.