BARONESS Talk DARK MOFO, Creative Evolution And The Power of Mystery

Interview by Angela Croudace
American heavyweights Baroness are headed to Tasmania this month for the famously atmospheric and provocative Dark Mofo festival — and for the band, it was precisely that mystique that made them say yes.
"It was a pretty interesting offer to fly 20 to 30 hours around the globe to play one show," they laughed. "But the vibe of the festival fits us."
It won't be their first time in Australia, but it will mark their long-awaited return to the island state. Reflecting on a previous visit to Tasmania in 2012, vocalist John Dyer Baizley recalled a surreal show where the audience had reportedly been dosed with LSD — "It was weird. But fun."
Their set promises to be just as memorable this time around, featuring new material and even some deep cuts that haven't been played in over a decade. "We're excited. It's very likely we'll play some songs we've never played in Tasmania — or anywhere in a long time."
Known for their evolving sound and richly illustrated album art, Baroness have always pushed sonic and visual boundaries. "We've given ourselves not just the right, but the obligation to push forward," they explained. "We build on what we've done, but we don't stand still."
The band's iconic colour-themed albums were a deliberate early concept, though they've since moved on from it. As for the relationship between their music and artwork? "Typically, the artwork is a reflection of the music — and sometimes the lyrics. Though for newer albums like Stone, the music came first."
Baroness are also mindful of the personal cost and discipline it takes to endure as musicians. Staying grounded and creatively fuelled comes down to "frustration" — and exercise. "To perform the way we want to, we have to align mind, body and spirit," they said. "We work out a lot more than people think. "On stage, they thrive on energy exchange. "We're not just playing songs — we're playing the audience. The show depends on them."
Despite their openness, the band values maintaining some mystery. "In the era of oversharing, we think it's important for artists to preserve something for the listener to discover on their own." Don't expect them to give too much away in the way of behind-the-scenes tour vlogs, as seems to be the trend with artists these days; the band believes in leaving a little mystery to their fans.
Be sure to catch Baroness as they bring their signature intensity and introspective edge to Dark Mofo this June — a performance perfectly at home in the festival's dark and immersive atmosphere.
For more information on Dark Mofo follow this link: https://darkmofo.net.au/


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