Dufus Does an Interview: Rachael Cantu

I recently had the opportunity to interview Rachael Cantu. She was kind enough to give a taste of her experiences thus far in the music industry, inspirations behind her newest album Far and Wide (check out NW’s review here), and her feelings towards flapjacks and pancakes.

Let’s talk about Far and wide: creative process, production experience, feelings about the final product, the typical questions fans are gripping to hear.

“Far and Wide” was quite a long process for me.  Between my last release “Run All Night” in 2006 and this release in 2009, there happened to be a lot of not-fun “business” type things that got in the way.  But, that was meant to be because I was forced to learn a lot about the business side of the music industry and that’s very important to know if you want to have a career in music.  I was lucky enough to be pointed in the direction of the fabulous producer, Futcher, in Vancouver, Canada.  He was fabulous to work with, knew some very talented musicians, worked really hard and made the recording process such an amazing experience for all involved.  We only had 5 days to get the core of the record down, and we did it.  That was an amazing feeling.  I’m so honored to have some wonderful people involved in the making of and final product of this record, and I’m extremely happy with the final product and can’t wait for everyone to hear it!

What aspects of your music do you consider unique in reference to the barrage of indie singer-song writers?

I don’t think I’m a typical singer/songwriter.   I honestly can’t put my finger on why.  I am constantly met with comments such as this: “I don’t normally like girl with guitar kind of music, but I really like your stuff.”  I try not to demystify that too much and just do what I do.  It’s a good feeling when I can change someone’s preconception about me.

Craziness of the industry, go:

The only real craziness I can think of is the big business aspect of the industry.  The control that these big labels have over their artists just seems…weird to me.  That’s craziness.  As long as you can stay away from that, it’s a fun business to be in.  I’ve done some pretty incredible things through music, lived out some dreams, made my parents proud, and I kind of owe that to the industry.  Like any industry, there are big wigs and people that make the industry seem crazy, but there are ways around that.

Have you begun thinking of, maybe even started writing ideas or songs for a new album?

I’m so immersed in the release of this album right now that I haven’t really had time to focus on writing.  I’ll get there eventually.  I’m not so worried about that right now.

Let’s get some inside info on Ms. Cantu? Jobs growing up; stories that have inspired songs; do you believe in the boogie-man?

My first job was at the Sweet Factory (the candy store).  That job was so much fun until we got a new boss that was just…crazy!  She  had red hair and would wear all orange (from head to toe), toenails painted orange and all. Once she implemented a “if you’re good, you get a star” system, as if we were in kindergarden, that’s when my friends and I quit.  Not worth it.  I’ve been a camp counselor, a waitress, a barista, worked in commercials, spent many years working in record stores (it was like living a real life “High Fidelity”), etc, etc, etc.  I’ve done many odd jobs and enjoyed most of them in one way or another.  I learned a lot from each job.  The hard work and experience is good for the soul.

Any words of inspiration to the hopeful musicians trying to break into the scene?

School yourself.  Don’t give up. Take each hard time as a lesson.  Learn from it.  Listen to advice. Listen to criticism.  It doesn’t happen over night and be thankful for that.  If things happened overnight, you wouldn’t know how to protect yourself or point yourself in the right direction.  Take the time in between to learn and ENJOY THE JOURNEY.  

Got any touring plans for 2010, what about 2012? If you are planning to tour in 2012, what precautions are you going to take to secure the awesomeness of your concert?

I’ll be in Texas, Alabama, Tennessee, Ohio, and Illinois in the beginning of 2010.  I’m very excited to start the year off with a great tour to some places I have never been, or haven’t been back to in years.  And I expect there to be many tours after that!

Are you more of a “flapjack” or a “pancake” person?

I don’t know if I have ever had a flapjack.  So, by default I am a pancake person. I rarely have them, but they are delicious.

Christmas is coming up, any big plans?

All of a sudden, everyone I know is having some sort of holiday party.  I’m looking forward to every single one of those.  I always spend Christmas day with my family.  They are wonderful, warm, loving people.  I’m lucky to have them and very thankful for all of them.

What are the sounds Ms. Cantu is currently enjoying?

I’m loving the Karen O and the Kids soundtrack to “Where the Wild Things Are”.  The version they do of Daniel Johnston’s, “Worried Shoes”, just kills me.  It’s so sweet!  Beautifully done.

Who do you think is changing to the game (which we both just lost) in the music scene?

I don’t think anyone has lost the game.  Sure, it’s changing, but I think it’s a good thing.  The power is being taken away from the controlling labels and put back into the hands of the artist.  Metric is a good example.  They are doing things independently and really showing how possible it is.

Finally, can I be your back up assistant electric triangle player?  If yes, well you have my info. If not, can I be a dancer in your videos?

(no response)

Dufus

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edit: Shahin “Dufus” Kalantari is one of the four-ish writers for 402 Reviews now. He’ll mainly be doing interviews. Looks like we got a team together with Adam on music/design articles, myself on music/music equipment articles (as well as the 402 Productions’ studio updates), Carla on live show reviews (not so many now, as she has a real job :/) and Dufus himself. Wee! -nw