Wesley Eisold, Cold Cave

The experimental noise-poppers Cold Cave are hitting the road once again, where the trio has spent much of their time since the re-release of their Love Comes Close album (on Matador) last November. Tonight they play Mercury Lounge—it's now sold out but we suggest you get a taste of their live show here and catch them next time around. The group consists of Caralee McElroy (formerly Xiu Xiu), Dominick Fernow and Wesley Eisold (formerly American Nightmare/Give Up The Ghost and Some Girls). This week Mr. Eisold was kind enough to answer some of our questions...

You played in a bunch of pretty well-known hardcore bands that were quite the opposite of Cold Cave—how did the changeover occur? It's not something that I really think about. I only have one hand so playing a guitar or the drums is not an option. So I tried making music with synths and pedals and it felt comfortable. Its only other people who remind me that I've changed. I can't imagine life any other way. When its a matter of necessity something so small as sound or genre never enters my mind.

Did your songwriting process change? Can you tell us a bit about that process? I went from being a part of bands in the past, where ideas come from various capable people, to recording and writing alone and embracing my incapabilities.

How did the band come together? The other two members of Cold Cave now are friends through music. Dominick released the first Cold Cave 7" on his label, Hospital Productions.

What have been your major influences throughout your life and as a musician? Oceans of insecurities. Sex.

If you could create an all-star supergroup with musicians dead or alive, who would be in it? I tried to think of an answer but I get too practical and the idea becomes too detailed and then it seems horrid so I'll just work alone.

What current bands are you listening to? Roman Cross, Akitsa.

How do you think the Philly music scene differs from New York? Life is a bit less ambitious in Philadelphia, for better and for worse.

Is there anything new going on at Heartworm Press? Our next release will be a collection of Genesis Breyer P-Orridge's early 60's to mid 70's poetry.

Please share your strangest "only in New York" story. Ray Cappo and Philip Glass pass each other in front of the Hell's Angels. No one knows who each other is, nor cares.

Which New Yorker do you most admire? Taylor Mead.

Given the opportunity, how would you change New York? I would make the children who live above me run less in the morning.

Do you have a favorite place to hang out when you're here? More than a place I just enjoy listening to music while walking aimlessly.

Best venue to play in NYC? I'm not sure yet. I wouldn't want to say until I've tried them all.