Mac DeMarco is an unassuming figure. For a man who’s had a prosperous year of press, and who’s set to play 1,000-plus venues opening for Phoenix in a matter of days, one might expect a bit of pretense, but DeMarco is refreshingly down to earth.
After just five minutes with Mac, it’s clear that he sees himself as merely another dude in another band, so much so that at times he can seem dubious of his success. DeMarco is undeniably appreciative of his fans, some of which drive hundreds of miles to see the show, but he’s a bit weary of the industry and its façades. DeMarco seems happy to seize the opportunities, however strange they may seem, but, ultimately, he’s satisfied playing shows to any amount of people that dig the songs.
Before his set last Wednesday at High Noon Saloon, Jonk Music was fortunate to dine at an unnamed sports bar with DeMarco for an extended interview.
2013 has been a crazy busy year thus far. How do you come to terms with the increased attention? Do you feel more inclined to turn things down or, on the contrary, accept everything?
“It’s the first big year so we definitely have to tour a crapload, but I’m getting better at saying ‘no’ since we don’t need to do every little thing that comes our way.” (laughs) “Hopefully in the future we won’t have such a crazy schedule and we won’t smell like shit all the time.”
What insight have you gained into the more commercialized parts of indie rock? How does it compare to your earlier ideas on what the scene might be like?
“Well… a lot more people know about the music now and the crowds are changing. It’s a weird transition for me, but in the end it’s cool because the more people that hear the music, the better. But it’s definitely happening super fast, which is strange.”
And from an industry-related perspective, what things have you observed?
“It’s cool because it seems more…” (voice deepens) “…pro-style.” (laughs) “Touring is starting to feel like work and it’s nice that I don’t have to work at Chipotle… or a sports bar.”
You’ve definitely worked hard to get where you are. Do you feel you’ve “arrived” or are you nervous it may be a fleeting moment?
I’m not really nervous about ‘losing momentum’ or anything, since before this year I was still making like two albums per year. The only difference is that now people give a shit, and I haven’t really changed the way I do things at all. I still do it for me.”
I think people admire and connect with your ability to joke around. It’s a fresh contrast to the countless bands that take themselves way too seriously. How important is it for you to maintain this human connection with your audience?
“I’d say it’s pretty important. We’re all just jackasses on stage and if the people join in, it helps the energy of the show. The most important thing is that the songs sound fine, and if we can do that and be goofy at the same time then we might as well do it.”
You’ve mentioned a liking for shows in more offbeat places like McAllen, TX. What main differences do you observe between, say, a Madison or a McAllen and a New York?
“Going to places that bands don’t usually go to, the kids feel like it’s a huge event. It’s cool because they really appreciate that you’re there. I took like 80 iPhone pictures with teenage girls in McAllen the other night.” (laughs) “With New York, you might get a slightly more standoff-ish crowd, but there’s also that exciting element to playing in such a huge city like NYC.”
There seems to be a communal vibe to Canadian musicians. Is it important for you to keep friends involved in what you do?
“In the States, it seems like bands can find certain bands in their city or region to befriend, but in Canada there’s just a smaller crowd so you end up meeting bands from other cities or whatever. It’s also difficult to tour the U.S. for the first time, since it’s so expensive and/or illegal.” (laughs) “It’s cool to tour with [Naomi Punk and Calvin Love] because I’d much rather tour with my friends than…certain other bands. I appreciate the ability to bring them since right now I’m getting some press, but there’s tons of bands that deserve it way more than I do.”
What are your favorite fast food restaurants when touring?
“Right now, Taco Bell cause we got like $400 to Taco Bell at SXSW.”
Speaking of SXSW, lately lots of people have been ripping on it and calling it a “corporate fest” and whatnot. How was your experience there, and do you feel a similar way?
“It’s cool ’cause you get to see friends in other bands and, while there are plenty of industry types there, lots of fans come too. I got like blackout drunk every single day of the week.” (laughs) “There’s free beer everywhere.”
You’ve said you’re not a huge fan of studios and you’ve always preferred home recording. Do you think you’ll ever venture out from the apartment to a professional studio?
“If I was doing it with someone I felt comfortable with, maybe I’d try it. But otherwise I’ll just keep doing it by myself at my house or maybe I’ll get a space or something.”
And will any recording happen in 2013?
“I’ve tried to do an EP lately but I kept having to leave Montreal. So instead of an EP, I think I’ll say ‘fuck it’ and just work on an album over the summer. I’m trying to get at least two months of time with no bookings, but that’s becoming very difficult. Hopefully by the end of summer, I’ll have at least something.”
Lastly – the Phoenix shows. You’re opening for the well-known French group in just a week, at venues bigger than anywhere you’ve ever played. You’ve commented in other interviews that you were a bit reluctant to accept the offer. Why?
“Well for one, it’s a bit of an odd combination and I wasn’t sure we’d fit well. Secondly, it was just a logistic issue because we need to get all the way across Canada in a few days to do it. But everyone I work with was like, ‘Mac, do it!’” (laughs) “I hope Phoenix knows what to expect.”