213. Jack Cooper Discusses Michael Head Introducing The Strands, The Magical World of the Strands

On this episode, UK-based guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Jack Cooper of Modern Nature introduces Al to the 1997 Michael Head Introducing The Strands album The Magical World of the Strands. Jack talks about how and when he first learned about Head’s work and how he eventually became familiar with The Magical World of the Strands. He explains why he thinks this particular album stands out in Head’s discography and why it has a timeless quality. Jack also discusses Modern Nature’s latest album, The Heat Warps, and the ways in which it is a departure from the band’s prior releases.

To learn more about Modern Nature, their music and tour schedule, visit their website at modernnature.band. Also, you can follow the band on Instagram at @m0dernnature and on Facebook at @modernnatureuk.

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1:18 Jack’s introduction

2:11 Jack was first introduced to Head’s music through Shack

6:58 Head’s music was never heavily marketed

8:54 Jack recalls how he wound up exploring The Magical World of the Strands

15:06 Jack explains what makes The Magical World of the Strands stand out among Head’s albums

17:32 Al shares his initial reactions to the album

20:33 Jack theorizes how Head and the Strands were able to make an album that sounded like it was from a different time

23:02 Jack and Al talk about the album’s “horizontal” nature

25:42 Al discusses the circumstance in which he did most of his listening to the album

27:49 Jack is a fan of Head’s more recent work with the Red Elastic Band

33:33 Jack shares his final thoughts about the album

36:13 Al sees a link between a comment made by Miki Berenyi and the themes on The Heat Warps

38:45 Jack talks about his perception of the U.S. based on his tour experiences

41:16 Jack stresses the importance of artists showing solidarity with those who resist the rise of fascism

43:37 Al explains why he finds The Heat Warps to be a rewarding listen

45:16 Jack talks about the importance of making albums sound cohesive

48:39 Jack explains why he referenced a line from “Stairway to Heaven” in “Jetty”

54:54 Jack shares the upcoming plans for Modern Nature

Outro music is from “Pharaoh” by Modern Nature.