Thee Danny Paul Grody has a new solo record called Other States as part of the Sketch For Winter series, out on Geographic North right now and it’s fucking incredible (stream it, buy it), it’s the first he’s put out since 2013’s Between Two Worlds on Three Lobed which was the fucking bessssst, Danny’s been doing killer shit with guitars & synths for like 15 years with Tarentel, The Drift, and his own solo work, and all of it is A+++ magic music, his solo stuff sounding like it would’ve been perfectly at home on Takoma, right between Craig Leon and Robbie Basho. I’ve been anticipating this one for a while, so once I heard it was in the works, I jumped at the chance to throw my set of questions at him. He obliged, and I am very thankful. Turns out he and I have a lot in common.
What is the best way to die?
Without pain, regrets and surrounded by loved ones. Sounds romantic, I know, but if I had a choice in the matter…
How do you think you’ll die?
Unexpectedly, I hope.
What makes you happy?
Being loved and loving back. I think happiness is fleeting at best. Once you can accept that, it becomes easier to receive it as well as to let it go when it passes. Maybe fulfillment is a more realistic goal to set?
How can you die happy?
Being fulfilled and doing what you love.
How close have you come to death?
Not very, but I’ve seen life leave a person. HEAVY.
What does kindness mean to you?
Generosity without expectation. The ability to listen, to be vulnerable, and to keep an open heart.
Where do you find love?
From my my parter of ten 10+ years, my friends, family, cat Eli, music and community.
When were you most afraid?
I’ve had some nightmares… I’ll leave it at that.
How do you listen to music?
I’ve got a long commute to work so I listen often on the train or bus these days. I’m also a student so music has been a great writing companion.