Baudelaire’s power lies in their unique blend of darkwave, post-punk, synth, industrial, and noise, amplified by a commanding stage presence and sharp, evocative lyricism. Their holistic approach to songwriting weaves together atmosphere, emotion, and intensity, creating an immersive experience that is as raucously cathartic as it is unforgettable. We caught up with the British band following the release of their latest single “Preacher”.
1 – Baudelaire’s sound is described as dark and noise-laden with goth undertones. Can you tell us how the band formed and what drew you to this distinctive sound?
Our guitarist Alex and bassist Liam have been friends since primary school. They decided they wanted to form a band during the Covid-19 pandemic and in 2021, they found Danny (vocals) and Arthur (electronics) online. Liam (guitar) and James (drums) came later after meeting the rest of the band through friends and family.
Each one of us have a pretty diverse range of tastes musically, but we all have a certain affinity for darker, noisier music: its often more honest in our experience.
2 – Your name, Baudelaire, evokes a connection to the French poet known for exploring decadence and despair. How does his work influence your music, if at all?
Danny and Alex really enjoyed reading his most famous work The Flowers of Evil. Baudelaire wrote this collection of poetry during a time of rapid technological advancement in Paris, which was quickly becoming the crowded metropolis that we know today. He was horrified by the filth and suffering that he encountered in the city on a daily basis, and was particularly concerned with the effect that these had on the psyche of the individual. A lot of our music is likewise based on a blend of what we see in the world today and how it makes us feel. More than anything though, we just really liked the sound of his name.
3 – Your sound has been compared to acts like Fat Dog, Gurriers, and Chalk. Who are your personal musical heroes, and how do they inspire your creative process?
We take different inspirations from different artists: Morrissey for his lyrical prowess. David Bowie for constantly moving forward. Trent Reznor for his focus on feeling above all else.
4 – You’ve described your latest release “Preacher” as a takedown of those who claim to have all the answers. How did this theme develop, and what does the song mean to you personally?
Preacher came from a collective disgust for those who force their views down other people’s throat – however ridiculous or banal. It also has some of the funniest lyrics that Danny has written to date.
5 – Does your creative process vary when writing music for the studio versus crafting it for your high-energy live shows?
That’s a tough one. In the studio, our focus is set firmly on trying to evoke a certain feeling or mood as authentically as we can. When it comes to translating that onto the stage, however, it’s often a case of stripping the song down to its most essential essence and using that to stay in the moment.
6 – With sold-out headline shows in both the UK and Paris, how does performing abroad differ from playing in the UK?
This may be a gross generalisation – but in our experience – performing in Europe can often trump playing in the UK. The venues and promoters over there have far more resources to pay and look after their bands properly. European crowds also seem to have greater ease in letting themselves go and fully lending themselves to the band’s energy. UK crowds can sadly have a shared tendency to stand at the front with their arms folded, with only an occasional nod of involvement.
7 – Your music delves into visceral aspects of the human condition. How do you hope listeners relate to or interpret your songs?
As long as they feel something when they listen to the music, be it good or bad, then that’s our job done as far as we’re concerned. In regards to what that feeling is or how they interpret it – perhaps that’s none of our business. Of course, we hope they like it though.
8 – What can fans expect from Baudelaire in the next year? Are you working on an EP, album, or more singles?
We’re going to the studio in December to record our next single, which will be released in February. An EP has also been tentatively discussed. We even have a title for it.
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