An Interview with Trevor Dunn

Trevor Dunn is one of this generation's most invigorating artist. His diverse styles,

techniques and vast knowledge of music have contributed to numerous genres in the
industry. He also possesses a rarity upon innumerable artist; HUMILITY.

The Following is an interview Trevor Dunn has agreed upon, taken time off to

answer. I invite you to embark on this highly intelligent luscious brain!

ER:When composing a piece, how much of what is being written and transferred to

the music comes from the inner pits of your subconsciousness? (Ex. Have you ever
dreamt any of the music you've written)?

TD:I've never had the good fortune of actually dreaming

up music. I would have to say, probably 80-90% of

what I write comes from somewhere "unreachable". I

tend to "daydream" ideas into existence, relying on

sudden, unexpected spurts of so-called inspiration.

The hard part is transcribing it; turning it into ink

on paper. If I write something that is

ultra-conscious, it most likely ends up being used as

a "study" or sketch for something less academic, I

suppose.

ER:The photograph on the "The more you Know the less you think you Know"

section on your website interest me quite a bit, will you give me some insight as to

the mystery behind it?

TD:I believe you're speaking of the old photo of my

father who raced dragsters before I was born. I just

thought it was a cool photo and wanted to give him

props.

ER:For the film score "Bunny" How did you come about as being one of the

performers?

TD:Tom Waits originally got in touch with me when he was

putting together a new band to tour the music of his

"Mule Variations". I was unable to take that gig

because of my hectic schedule with Mr. Bungle. Later,

he assembled a bunch of Bay Area musicians to play for

the animated film. I did have the amazing opportunity

to sort of "audition" for him when he first called me.

It was just the two of us in his studio; He sang and

played Wurlitzer; I just followed along.

ER:I happen to be a great cartoon enthusiast, What has to be your
favorite
animated cartoon/ character?

TD:When it comes to the classics, I really love the OLD

Daffy Duck. Then again, the various stages of Bugs

are all incredible. I also like Quasimodo the Duck

though I can't remember the last time I saw him.

My most favorite animated show is something I saw on

HBO back in the early 80s. It had something to do

with mice and rats. It was creepy and bizarre and I

wish I knew what it was called.

My favorite Simpson's characters: Homer, Chief Wiggam.

ER:Have you added any new gadgets to your musical arsenal?

TD:Nothing new really. I try to stick to a basic and,

what I think of as, organic minimum of gadgets. A

couple of stomp boxes, a few clothes pins, a serrated

bow. I'm still learning how to play my instrument.

ER:For Trio-Convulsant, Which compositional form was of prevalence?

TD:Form is a major consideration in the process of that

music. I'm constantly trying to discover new forms,

and contrast them. Ultimately I want every tune to

have it's own form. I don't really have a set

process, and I jump back and forth between guitar,

bass and keyboard when I'm composing. I think that

keeps me on my toes, and keeps me from being "locked

into" my instrument.

ER:Tell me Trevor, What is up with this idealistic monocultured
society our fellow
Americans have adopted, that has contaminated our food, music, and culture?

TD:It's the American way. It's called money. I don't know

if there is anyway of not being a part of it, frankly.

I mean, we're doing this interview on-line, we go to

the movies, we drive cars. We are a part of the

beast. I can't recommend this book, Fast Food Nation,

enough. You MUST check it out.

ER:You seem to be fond of one of the great pleasure in life, FOOD!
What might be
your preferred choice of an alcoholic beverage to compliment that delicious five star
cuisine?

TD:Oh, I can't refuse Italian wine. Chianti or

something... And then it's on with the Port.

ER:Trevor: Please elucidate on any compulsions you might possess?

TD:I buy more books than I need. My "to read" shelf is

larger than my "already read" shelf. It's a sickness.

I have a compulsion for knowledge I guess.

ER:What will Mr. Dunn be scheming for 2002?

TD:Writing chamber music, writing music for

trio-convulsant, maybe starting a punk band called

THERE IS SHIT IN THE MEAT.

To find more on Trevor Dunn, Visit his utterly informative

website@http://trevordunn.n3.net where you will find information on
Recordings,

Upcoming Shows,& much, much, more.................