Just about 8 years ago, almost to the day to this post, this interview appeared on Channel 4 TVs Teletext service "Planet Sound" here in the UK. This was prior to the release of Bullets, and so it's literally a "Year Zero" moment in Editors history. It's a little glimpse of a band who are about to start a very weird and wonderful journey together. Check it out:-
EDITORS: MAKING HEADLINES by Sarah Crewe
With the impending release of their debut single Bullets, Birmingham-based band Editors have already been tipped by PS as a band to watch in 2005. Having enjoyed a support slot with The Bravery last year, expectations are running high for the boys from Brum, whose debut album is due later in the year. PS talks to singer / songwriter Tom Smith and guitarist Chris Urbanowicz to find out more and get the latest scoop on such a delightfully monikered band
Formerly known as Snowfield, Editors soon had a change of heart about their name once success was on the cards.
"It was never really us" says Tom. "About the time we realised we might be getting a record deal it seemed right to make the change from the unsigned Snowfield to the signed Editors."
In turn, this has changed the direction of the music.
"The songs are still just me writing in my bedroom," says Chris, “But with a lot more developed energy."
Judging from Bullets and its B-sides, Editors' lyrics are fatalistic, yet also laced with a level of content.
“It's big themes‚ love, life and death," says Tom Smith. “But there's a seed of optimism there. Musically though there's a lot of sadness."
"The songs are very suggestive, as far as the lyrics take you into a certain area," adds guitarist Chris. "A song could end on a happy line. Whereas the music will take you down and back up."
About to head off on tour, Editors' passion for playing live rather than being in the studio is clear.
"Although both experiences are exciting, we much prefer playing live," says Tom. “It's a cliché but it's about the spark in rehearsals on the stage."
Chris agrees: “The most exciting thing for me is playing in a room where it's rammed and everyone's really into it. It's the most satisfying thing you can do with music when that happens."
Signed to Kitchenware, Editors wax lyrical about the importance of being supported by an independent label.
“About a year ago we had interest from major labels, but there was nothing we were really happy with," says singer Tom. “Kitchenware have been the most enthusiastic about our band.
“There aren't many great bands on major labels at the moment," says Chris. “But ours are amazing people, it's great to have people like that with you."
To what extent would Editors be able to handle major success? Are they up for eventually playing arenas?
"We're just trying to stay away from massive buzz bands, as it can be the kiss of death," muses guitarist Chris.
“When you're a kid, you always see it as you'll play the big places, but the little venues are really exciting. Now, I'd much rather stand in a dark room with a low ceiling in front of 150 people and get a real vibe off it."
Indie music is going through a fantastic phase at the moment, and Editors have a lot to offer the scene.
"There's a lot of post modernism in all the bands around now," says Chris Urbanowicz. “We can hopefully bring our influences all together and add something new to the table." Adds Tom Smith. "Franz Ferdinand opened a lot of doors, as they won over fans who may not previously have listened to those kind of bands and now do."
Editors' singer Tom Smith cites early REM as “inspirational", while guitarist Chris Urbanowicz mentions Echo & The Bunnymen, “Although I went through a heavy Jane's Addiction phase too."
So if Editors were as the name suggests, who would be in Tom's mag?
“Tom Vek, give him a mention. With The Walkmen on the cover. Moving Units would have to be in there as well. In terms of other topics, well, Chris has really been into the darts lately."
Bullets is out on Monday
