How I know them:
Be Wive’s guitarist, Joel, and I went to high school together and have been bumping into each other at random people’s houses and various other places (where alcohol is involved) ever since.
Wow. That kind of made it sound like we slept together, but we haven’t. Honestly, I barely know this guy, but I like him. He’s a gem and a talented one at that (ladies?).
I don’t know too much about the other guys either, but they must be something like Joel (which is why this interview will be their voices in unison).
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These guys aren’t being bossy about putting a ring on it. They just picked this name because it rhymes with another one they liked. “Band names never should be serious, should they?” they ask.
Be Wives (James, Ben, Jordan, Joel and Pete) formed in Allston, MA around 2011 and mainly play in dives and basements – firm believers in keeping it grimy. When asked about how many fans they have, they said, “Well, let’s see: We have five band members times two parents each, plus a few step-parents – so, that’s about 12?”
All 12 of their fans have surely frequented their bandcamp and facebook pages. They’ve never officially recorded an album. However, some of their songs have been recorded professionally at Mad Oak in Allston. Those songs can be found and downloaded for free on their bandcamp page.
After checking all four songs on their bandcamp out, I decided that people should be listening to this music. I asked the band why they think people should and they said, “Oh jeez. You shouldn’t listen to our music.” Crickets. “Really though, we’re just having a good time writing simple music that’s easy to listen to.” Agreed.
It is easy to listen to. Catchy, too – the way good rock music should be. Sweet sometimes and sarcastic at others. In one word, the guys call it “breezy.” Hey, not bad weather. Especially, not to go outside and skateboard or play some bike polo – a couple of their favorite ways to hang out.
More accurate description from the band explains their sound as something you’d have a gin and tonic to (maybe even some bath salts?). Apparently they had their sound shaped by Nirvana (but on bath salts perhaps? – I’m not sure). “Does it get any better than that (simply Nirvana)?” they ask. Answer: it depends on what day of the week it is for me.
Today, I’m into listening to Be Wives. It’s very scenic. I have the song “Spring Fling” playing right now and it feels like a ride away from everything. This one is my favorite for sure. Check it out and see what I mean.
I’m also a very big fan of sexy, surfy song “Pacifico.” The breakdowns aren’t annoying. There just enough to make your head and heart find the beat and lead you up to the next “But I don’t even know her name” growl. Those things moving, sirs and ladies, are your hips.
Soon, Be Wives is planning on the creation of a James & Ben swimsuit calendar. Oooh la la!
Where are they headed? “We’re headed for a warmer climate…hell.” Well, bring sunscreen, gentlemen.
In five years, the band will be in 2018 and they would like to pollute your mind with the following: “Larry Bird 2016!” Oh, and if you know any strippers who play tambourine, please notify them.
Leigh Greaney can be reached at lgreaney@thoughtpollution.com.