The ChemBase

Forum => Questions / FAQ => Topic started by: WhiteNoise on Feb 19, 2016, 20:37

Poll
Question: How are you tom?
Option 1: Alright votes: 10
Option 2: Pretty shit votes: 1
Option 3: Absolutely on top of the world votes: 12
Option 4: Spanking wanking! votes: 7
Option 5: Bored of existing votes: 0
Option 6: Is Mr. Rowlands a little late on the As? votes: 4
Title: Q & A with Tom Rowlands (2016)
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 19, 2016, 20:37
Greetings Chemical Brothers & Sisters!

As we get excited for the upcoming live dates with Tom and Ed, we are celebrating by bringing back an old favorite and taking questions from YOU. 

That's right, Tom Rowlands will answer selected questions and we'll post the answers both here and on our main website. 

Please post your question and it will be considered. 

Some tips:
  • Please stick to questions vs. declarations.  You can declare elsewhere.
  • Please try and check out previously posted questions as we proceed, so you don't duplicate.
  • Like those questions you'd like to see answered.
  • Trolls of all kinds will be unceremoniously removed.
  • Good manners and originality are a plus.
We'll post answers from Tom in the coming months....

That's all for now - stay tuned for more live dates and other news from Chemical HQ.


Tom's Answers: https://forum.thechembase.com/index.php/topic,474.msg7904.html#msg7904
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Ben_j on Feb 19, 2016, 20:44
Yay ! I'll start :

How did not having Ed with you for most of the 2015 tour and for elaborating the live show impact how you built the show ? Any tracks or parts you included there that you wouldn't have played with Ed (or that he wouldn't let you play :P ) ?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: ThePumisher on Feb 19, 2016, 20:48
@whitenoise: ask your chemical beats question so you aren't confused anymore
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 19, 2016, 20:50
Quote from: ThePumisher on Feb 19, 2016, 20:48

@whitenoise: ask your chemical beats question so you aren't confused anymore
I have a feeling the answer is "We did it that way because we wanted to" :D
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Feb 19, 2016, 20:52
What can Tom tell us about the Trespass Against Us soundtrack and film?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Csar on Feb 19, 2016, 21:18
Just 2 quick questions spring to mind:

  • How did you decide the track order on Born In the Echoes? Why did you decide against Radiate as the closing title?
    Do you have some sort of "pattern" you like when you arrange albums (like e.g. dance track - dance track - calm track etc. pp.)?
  • Why did you give up on this track below which is also known among fans as "Problem/ Question" or "Animal" track and which you played live in 2005 (live set) and 2006 on a DJ set at Summercase festival in Madrid?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0zrp5JhyAU
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LSdLc_Y9iA

    The melody and that synthesizer are just awesome, Tom!

Man, this is actually a tough thing to do because I don't want to come up with questions he's answered millions of times already. For how long will this Q&A be open for q-submissions?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Biff on Feb 19, 2016, 23:38
How do you choose which synth/modular to use for recording tracks? Is it just a matter of what sounds fun at the time?

What's your drink of choice in the studio? Coffee, tea, or too much expensive stuff for beverages to be around?

How do you know when to call it quits on a song that's not living up to standards?

Do you have any other hobbies that you feel like are essential for creating music?

Most importantly, what is the SH-101 used for live? This has been driving me crazy for 15 years and I'm sure the answer is obvious. Is it just to brag that you guys have one and they cost insane amounts of money now due to hype?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: MIKL on Feb 20, 2016, 00:11
Were you aware of this sample Cut Copy (the band have used) from 'It Doesn't Matter'?. (it starts from 25sec in and is used throughout) I actually met and asked Dan (the singer/lead) of the band in person one day if anyone had asked him where it came from and no one had. He is obviously a big fan aswell along with the manchester/madchester scene etc. as we talked about that and scene in general now.

(I hope I haven't started a legal war with this question understandable if you can't answer. I'm a big fan of both parties involved)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ruKoGEDxLPw

When creating your own music, do you worry about other people using samples/song writing styles that they have used in songs that either you have done or have been influenced by as well? Or do you see it sometimes as intentional and more of a tribute/acknowledgement of the actual sample/style of writing and where it has come from and how its been used as part of that culture/scene?

Was Horse Power maybe a tribute to Last train to trancentral by KLF?

Could you see yourself collaborating with Tame Impala in future if the timing/song was right?

is there a song/album of yours that is special to you the most at all or does it change from time to time?

(I could go on but I'll leave it at that for now  :music)
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: frans on Feb 20, 2016, 00:18
I have a question.

Hi Tom, you might know me from the old Chemical Brothers mailing list back in the early 2000's. Majordomo? Well you know what I mean. I was quite disappointed with the Surrender album but you've made it all worthwhile with some other albums after that. I've seen you live a few times and I've enjoyed it a lot. Nothing like a big soundsystem to hear you guys play on.

My question is this, what are your favorite pieces of gear nowadays? You're always struck me as the "bad guy" in the Chemical Brothers. The guy who makes the gear really scream. So what are your weapons of choice nowadays?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Enjoyed on Feb 20, 2016, 00:32
What's your favourite cereal?
And no, I will not accept "I don't eat cereal" as an answer.
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: androidgeoff on Feb 20, 2016, 00:44
What song are you most proud of from BITE?

Why did you choose the album version of Under the Influence for Surrender as opposed to EBW3 or Mix 2?

How long did you spend making Wonders of the Deep?

What is your favorite beer or beer style?

Not a question, but wanted to say I took your advice to heart about making music. I went from all in the box to no DAW. Best decision to listen to you, so thank you!
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Apostle on Feb 20, 2016, 00:57
Your feelings post BITE, new material still best consumed in album form?

Were/are plans for a brothers gonna work it out follow up on the table?

One more Non festival NY show before I die?

Where's the acoustic album??  ;D

Promise me you won't stop making music for us?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Csar on Feb 20, 2016, 01:05
Will you ever invite fans backstage again... after... Chicago?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: whirlygirl on Feb 20, 2016, 01:10
Tom!

i have no questions right now. I just want to say HI!!!
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: androidgeoff on Feb 20, 2016, 01:11
Quote from: Csar on Feb 20, 2016, 01:05

Will you ever invite fans backstage again... after... Chicago?
A certain crazy person may have ruined that opportunity for everyone.
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Csar on Feb 20, 2016, 01:11
Quote from: androidgeoff on Feb 20, 2016, 01:11

A certain crazy person may have ruined that opportunity for everyone.
I have no clue :D
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 01:13
Quote from: Csar on Feb 20, 2016, 01:11

I have no clue :D
He shall remain nameless. Yeos.
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: drudius on Feb 20, 2016, 01:14
Will you lads have any dates in Canada?  A fan of 20 years, I'm making it a priority to see you this time round (never seen you guys live).

Thanks.
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: inchemwetrust on Feb 20, 2016, 01:15
Any possibility in releasing Superflash? (the DJ version,not the live version) And why are there 2 versions of this track? Also, is there a chance get C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L released too?

Btw, I've said this before but all three of you (and Adam) should be on stage. Can it happen? I'm sure there's plenty of room on stage for all 3 of you.


Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 01:22
Quote from: androidgeoff on Feb 20, 2016, 01:11

A certain crazy person may have ruined that opportunity for everyone.
In all seriousness, it really was not that bad!

Tom, it was great of you to give up an hour of your evening to hang out with us geeks in Chicago. Knowing that you and Eddy are huge fans of New Order, what was it like meeting them for the first time? What is it like to produce and write songs with them now, especially on their newest album?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 01:26
Quote from: inchemwetrust on Feb 20, 2016, 01:15

Btw, I've said this before but all three of you (and Adam) should be on stage. Can it happen? I'm sure there's plenty of room on stage for all 3 of you.
Yes! Any chance of a Triple Chemical Super Slam?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: thg on Feb 20, 2016, 01:28
Quote from: inchemwetrust on Feb 20, 2016, 01:15

Any possibility in releasing Superflash? (the DJ version,not the live version) And why are there 2 versions of this track? Also, is there a chance get C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L released too?


Besides of "Superflash", "C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L" and other unreleased tracks, is there any chance of releasing any of those awesome remixes/mashups/edits you play in your DJ sets? Like "Fine Time" (New Order), "Evil Twin" (Modeselektor), etc? An studio version of "Out Of Control/Setting Sun" would also be a nice gift! ;D
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Feb 20, 2016, 01:47
Quote from: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 01:22

In all seriousness, it really was not that bad!
What happened?

Quote from: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 01:22
Tom, it was great of you to give up an hour of your evening to hang out with us geeks in Chicago. Knowing that you and Eddy are huge fans of New Order, what was it like meeting them for the first time? How does it feel to produce and write songs with them now, especially on their newest album?

As an addendum to that: Bernard Sumner says he thinks that Giacomo who did the Italian voice on Tutti Frutti is a guy who works in Tom's local sandwich shop. True?

Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Bosco on Feb 20, 2016, 01:52
Tom, Is your refrigerator running?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Fox on Feb 20, 2016, 02:48
Hi all!

Thank you for making this QA.

Being a beginner producer I have a relentless feeling of unsatisfaction when working on tracks. I just can't enjoy it and always feel it's not good and too far from my expectations. I am not sure if it is justified as I mostly actually like my tracks when I listen to them a couple of weeks later.

How do you guys decide when a track is completed ? Do you consider external feedback ? Do you manage to actually feel satisfied of your tracks when working on it ?
Also, what percentage of the material you create represent your releases ?

Thanks!
Fox
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Enjoyed on Feb 20, 2016, 02:50
Nice questions, Fox.
Welcome!
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 03:03
Quote from: Fox on Feb 20, 2016, 02:48

Being a beginner producer I have a relentless feeling of unsatisfaction when working on tracks. I just can't enjoy it and always feel it's not good and too far from my expectations. I am not sure if it is justified as I mostly actually like my tracks when I listen to them a couple of weeks later.
I know exactly what you're talking about! This had me in a bind for years. I am not Tom, but my method to combat this is to treat my song or sound making as "time to make some garbage, just some crap music, who cares." Most of the time, it comes out sounding nice, and I actually enjoy the process because it takes the pressure way off, lowering the expectations. I'm not here to make a great song, I'm here to punch a keyboard and move sliders and click towards something that makes me happy. I haven't enough material for a release yet, but when I do, that's when I'll bring my expectations back and level criticism, getting frustrated as I work towards perfecting the tracks.

Basically, "write drunk, curate sober".
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: wrclaguna on Feb 20, 2016, 07:16
Where do you get so much positive chemical energy, so that at every concert and interview are smiling from ear to ear?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Csar on Feb 20, 2016, 09:45

  • What do your family members/ neighbours say when you're producing loud electronic music, experimenting with synths/ patches? Have you ever bothered them with what we deem awesome?
  • Do you consult your family from time to time when making certain tracks (e.g. Salmon Dance)?
  • Will the octave kitten ever get a key repair?
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 20, 2016, 14:39
Okay, which one of you dorks added a poll to my post? :D
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Explud on Feb 20, 2016, 14:50
Quote from: Biff on Feb 19, 2016, 23:38
Most importantly, what is the SH-101 used for live? This has been driving me crazy for 15 years and I'm sure the answer is obvious. Is it just to brag that you guys have one and they cost insane amounts of money now due to hype?
It's used for this intro thing:
http://thechembase.com/media/intro-sh101.mp3
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: Hutchio on Feb 20, 2016, 15:00
Are there any plans to release your edit of Charles B 'Lack of Love'? I've been desperate for it since hearing you play it at Bugged Out Weekender 2 or 3 years ago, it is absolutely incredible!
Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
Post by: ACIDCHILDREN on Feb 20, 2016, 15:40
    Quote from: Csar on Feb 19, 2016, 21:18


    • Why did you give up on this track below which is also known among fans as "Problem/ Question" or "Animal" track and which you played live in 2005 (live set) and 2006 on a DJ set at Summercase festival in Madrid?

      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0zrp5JhyAU
      https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LSdLc_Y9iA

      The melody and that synthesizer are just awesome, Tom!

    I very much would like to know the answer to this question, what a cracking track. If I remember correctly this was pressed on vinyl or was at least an MP3 as Justin Robertson would play this out.
    [/list]
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Stefan on Feb 20, 2016, 17:24
    Are you concerned that the Robots will one day break loose and enslave humanity?

    What's the power consumption of a typical Chemical Brothers Live show?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: sneakerbeater on Feb 20, 2016, 17:29
    Quote from: Apostle on Feb 20, 2016, 00:57

    Were/are plans for a brothers gonna work it out follow up on the table?

    A very good question, it would be a great way to get some of those exclusive edits  out. I still dream about having the original it began in  afrika  / beat the clock / yellow train  edit

    And problem / questions is a strange one , given Out to a select few as ebw 8. Why  did it never make it out?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ThePumisher on Feb 20, 2016, 18:31
    • More order than question, but you have to release a full studio version snow/surface!

    • Where's Hot Acid Rhythm #2?

    • Any chance of releasing the unmixed version of Further?

    • Is Norman right and still everybody needs a 303?

    • And the most important: I love you guys!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Chops on Feb 20, 2016, 18:34
    Have you ever considered a one off live show complete with loads of your collaborators performing the tracks with you? I realize it would be a logistical nightmare but I would love this to happen.

    Planning more lead vocals?

    Do you ever have all the melodies in place when having guests on a track or is it always more organic than that?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Nekcore on Feb 20, 2016, 19:20
    At some point recently, did you considered to produce again some old school breakbeat/big beat tunes?

    What are the best headphones, audio set ups, you've used in your life?

    What's the best lego build you ever had?

    Strange questions, but there's a lot of curiosity.

    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: hstn on Feb 20, 2016, 21:19
    (are comments or remarks about his hair allowed I have no questions but i just admire it very much)

    Anyway, what's the story behind most of the visuals?

    Why did you guys remove the Out Of Control silhouttes for the BITE tour?

    How did you guys find Kate Gibb for the artwork?

    Why does I'll See You There have a crazy ending live?

    What makes certain songs stick to the setlists and others throwaways? (like Star Guitar and Hey Boy Hey Girl being fixtures and tracks like Come Inside, We Are The Night, Piku, etc. being dumped?)

    What's your favorite visual by Adam or favorite performance over the course of the Chemical Brothers?

    Where do you find your samples?

    What's your favorite film or show?

    Who decided to make Further into an audiovisual film?

    What made Mark Monero a fixture of the visuals?
    I'll save this for Adam
    Any chance of Chemical brand toy robots?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: estratosferico on Feb 20, 2016, 21:43
    Mr Rowlands,

    We know the capabilites of you an Mr. Howlett (the Prodigy). Will you ever consider make a song together? Like the new order ones. That would be a killer combo. (like chris nolan with zack snyder  :D ) greetings from Mexico.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: whirlygirl on Feb 21, 2016, 03:51
    Hey Tom! What do you think of Star Wars: A Force Awakens? How many times have you seen it, and... Did you shed a tear when that thing happened to that one guy from the original trilogy.... you know?

    If given the chance to score a video game soundtrack, would you? And if so, what type of video game score would you like to create?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Born In Planet Dust on Feb 21, 2016, 06:09
    Quote from: androidgeoff on Feb 20, 2016, 01:11

    A certain crazy person may have ruined that opportunity for everyone.

    we aren't that crazy...are we?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Bosco on Feb 21, 2016, 07:00
    Quote from: Born In Planet Dust on Feb 21, 2016, 06:09

    we aren't that crazy...are we?

    We were  dorky, Geoff was an idiot... a lovable idiot
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Explud on Feb 21, 2016, 14:12
    My question:

    How do you clean your studio? There are so many sensitive equipment, which is moisture harmful.
    And what the story about broken synth during Escape Velocity record session?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ACIDCHILDREN on Feb 21, 2016, 20:58
    Questions...

    Have you ever released any music under a secret alias? If so we would love to know more!

    Your studio looks immense, what are you favourite pieces of equipment and why?

    You've played at some ledgendary venues over the years, which other dis do you enjoy watching and playing with?

    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: TeeDubyaE1 on Feb 23, 2016, 16:37
    Will there be any standalone UK tour dates, particularly in London? Or is SW4 it?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Feb 23, 2016, 16:39
    https://twitter.com/ChemBros/status/702166089141264386

    With over 100 comments on FB, what chance our questions here will be answered?
    Does someone "shortlist" the questions for Tom? Someone here?

    Incidentally I can't help thinking that limiting questions to one or two per post might make sense in so far as it's difficult to 'like' someone's specific question when they've posted a whole bunch in one post.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: orangewedge99 on Feb 23, 2016, 16:53
    My Question;

    Hey Tom,
    What were your first approaches on "Born In The Echoes"?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ferruloso on Feb 23, 2016, 17:19
    Hello Tom, here's a big fan from Argentina.

    I've noted that your last videos are incredibly theatrical and abstract your esthetic rules! I also loved the emotional content form old videos like galvanize, golden path and electrobank... would you plug some wire in our hearts soon?
    plus: Your visuals and sound in shows are always amazing... your last show en Arg let us wanting more, when would you come back soon please?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Feb 23, 2016, 17:53
    What does the mysterious trackname K+B+D on Further stand for?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ThePumisher on Feb 23, 2016, 19:25
    Quote from: Csar on Feb 23, 2016, 17:53

    What does the mysterious trackname K+B+D on Further stand for?
    Ok, here's my question: "What does the mysterious trackname K+D+B on Further stand for?"  ;) :P
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 23, 2016, 19:47
    What's your favorite place to travel to, or have travelled to?

    I think I remember that you like cycling. What kind of bike do you have? Do you listen to any music when you ride?

    Everyone asks for gear reccomendations- what are some of your favorite VSTs and digital noisemakers? No analog stuff!

    Born in the Echoes is your first album to not feature a single song transition, why is that?

    Many fans are wondering if you'll ever try a more improvized setlist, with deeper digs (Chico's Groove!) played live for the first time. Has this ever been on the table?

    What's the story of the worst gig you've ever had to do?

    Any chance of an Ariel reunion? :D

    Do you have any great compositions you haven't been able to release for copyright or legal reasons?

    We've discovered some early prototype nicknames for songs like Guitar Tuned to D, Germ, Jabba... What are some great names we haven't heard? What happened to the track called Contra?

    If someone sat you in your studio and told you to make 'a great synth sound' in 5 minutes, what effects, techniques, chains, pedals, and/or gear you would jump to?

    What is your favorite t-shirt?

    What's your favorite memory from university?

    Will you DJ my wedding? If not, any good wedding song reccomendations? We're definitely playing Swoon.

    What is your perfect Christmas?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: MadPooter on Feb 23, 2016, 22:32
    Tom--this is the most cliche question, but you've been doing this for 30 years. How has your relationship to making music changed?

    There was a certain ferocity to the Chemical Brothers at the beginning, and from what I see the changes over the years have shaped your work with Ed into something with much more depth, though with that initial energy at a different level.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Feb 23, 2016, 23:30
    Quote from: ThePumisher on Feb 23, 2016, 19:25

    Ok, here's my question: "What does the mysterious trackname K+D+B on Further stand for?"  ;) :P
    Damn. But like I said, it's a mysterious trackname.
    (I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan. I am an unworthy fan.)
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 24, 2016, 00:08
    23!!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: androidgeoff on Feb 24, 2016, 04:10
    With Keep My Composure (great song), were the Heroes and Brotherhood versions merely alternate takes, or did you work on the song further after submitting it for Heroes?

    Which album opener is your favorite?

    Out of every song you have never played live, which would you most like the play?

    Your vocals are featured on many tracks! Which is your favorite?

    Could you do another late night psyktronik mix?

    Have to ask: Here Come the Drums? C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L.?

    Could you keep I'll See You There on this year's tour?

    In Elektrobank, there are drums from Life Is Sweet (Remix 1):

    Life is Sweet drums
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueXTKK3Do9E&feature=youtu.be&t=51


    as seen, in Elektrobank:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z0rVbB3Z_-o&feature=youtu.be&t=82

    Would you use these in a live show? They are awesome!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 24, 2016, 04:20
    This again :)

    I finally hear it now, by the way! Freaking good ears you got...
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ThePumisher on Feb 24, 2016, 09:00
    Do we get another 23 years of fresh new chemicals?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: sandelic on Feb 24, 2016, 09:26
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Feb 24, 2016, 00:08

    23!!

    42? :D

    Quote from: Skyscraper on Feb 23, 2016, 16:39

    https://twitter.com/ChemBros/status/702166089141264386

    With over 100 comments on FB, what chance our questions here will be answered?
    Does someone "shortlist" the questions for Tom? Someone here?

    Incidentally I can't help thinking that limiting questions to one or two per post might make sense in so far as it's difficult to 'like' someone's specific question when they've posted a whole bunch in one post.
    This is actually spot on
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ArcadiaDivine on Feb 24, 2016, 18:07
    A handful of older EDM artists, usually classically trained, consistently complain about the frustrations with working with artists that don't know music theory or with artists that a poor ear. Has this been a problem for you? If not, what is the biggest frustration on working with other artists.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Fragor on Feb 25, 2016, 06:02
    Hi Tom.I am writing from mexico, First  Im sorry for the worst english that you  have to read .After say that,  better you prepare  for the best live  for this country ,if happens this will be my first  concert in my life i am 26 years old ,  a shame i know,.Well .like said before  if happens gonna be amazing for me . that my first concet in my life r will be the chemicals bros,  i lost the chance to go a concert form  Kraftwerk the last year.  i feel so bad for that ,I hear you since i was 14 in 2004  with golden path , use to always take a shower with that,  Since then I have been a fan. I love everthing, music, lyrics, video,  u guys  have a wide  taste. your rythms are extrasensorial for me all the sound sometimes schizophrenic with your sounds. and the rythm density is amazing,  that teletransport my mind, well  i used to be a lot of questiones, some technical but that dont really to explain to normal people like me. my question is  while make music  you have ever experienced anything paranormal¡?  when come from all inspiration ¡? some spiritual ? u play whit  sound waves like nobody else.  In mexico We appreciate a lot  the chemical music . O:-) thanks for read Tom and chemical team .
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Feb 25, 2016, 16:51
    Quote from: Fragor on Feb 25, 2016, 06:02
    with golden path , use to always take a shower with that
    Golden Path + showers = ?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: chemreact on Feb 26, 2016, 09:41
    I see whole bunch of questions/problems but no answers
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: androidgeoff on Feb 26, 2016, 16:54
    Patience, patients. The Chemicals are on their way.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Feb 26, 2016, 17:13
    Quote from: chemreact on Feb 26, 2016, 09:41

    I see whole bunch of questions/problems but no answers
    From what I know, they're collecting a bunch of questions, and then Tom will make a series of posts (somewhere) answering them in bulk in the coming weeks/months. I can ask around and see if they know when yet.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: geebee99 on Feb 26, 2016, 21:33
    What happened in Chicago 🤖
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Bosco on Feb 27, 2016, 01:15
    nerd rape
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: satur8 on Feb 28, 2016, 05:01
    Hi Tom. What is the fan question you'd love to answer but are never asked? And, what's the answer? 

    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: orangewedge99 on Feb 29, 2016, 15:29
    Will there be reissues of all your albums on Vinyl? (Dig Your Own Hole, Come With Us etc. ...)
    Nearly all your albums are very valuable on wax!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Mar 02, 2016, 18:10
    Now that questions have died down we are compiling a shortlist of questions to send to Tom. There are so many good questions here and unfortunately we can't answer all of them... we are trying to pick the best questions (unique questions in particular), and trying to include as many people as we can!

    I might also edit a few questions for grammar/clarity, nothing huge, and when multiple people ask the same question I am making it a question from both of you.

    Also, if anyone wants their real name used instead of their screen name, let me know! I still don't know if we're including names with the questions but I'll send either your username or real name along with the questions.

    Also what do I do about my own questions!? My post got the most likes but I feel bad using too many of my own. Or even picking my own!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ThePumisher on Mar 02, 2016, 21:50
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Mar 02, 2016, 18:10

    Also what do I do about my own questions!? My post got the most likes but I feel bad using too many of my own. Or even picking my own!
    If you're doing another bunch of "nous somme le pouvoir", i'm fine with that.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Enjoyed on Mar 02, 2016, 22:50
    Quick poll with two or three choices for people to vote on?

    I liked and want to hear answers to all of your questions, but if we have to pare them down I could pick a few of the more burning ones of yours.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Mar 02, 2016, 22:53
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Mar 02, 2016, 18:10

    Also what do I do about my own questions!? My post got the most likes but I feel bad using too many of my own. Or even picking my own!
    So whoever at Chemical HQ is responsible for picking out the Facebook questions won't also pick the Forum questions? If they did, that would solve your problem WN. I guess it might have helped if we had kept it to one or two questions per post. You may just have to pick 2 or 3 of your faves from your own post.

    Also may I add that Trespass Against Us is probably the only new Chemical release we will get in 2016, yet not one person liked my post/question back on page 1. Whaaaat?  ??? Surely Tom (& Adam) would love to talk about this!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: FluxAnswer on Mar 02, 2016, 23:58
    Would you rather fight one horse sized duck or a hundred duck sized horses?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Mar 03, 2016, 03:53
    Quote from: ThePumisher on Mar 02, 2016, 21:50

    If you're doing another bunch of "nous somme le pouvoir", i'm fine with that.
    This can happen

    Quote from: Enjoyed on Mar 02, 2016, 22:50

    Quick poll with two or three choices for people to vote on?

    I liked and want to hear answers to all of your questions, but if we have to pare them down I could pick a few of the more burning ones of yours.
    Quote from: Skyscraper on Mar 02, 2016, 22:53

    So whoever at Chemical HQ is responsible for picking out the Facebook questions won't also pick the Forum questions? If they did, that would solve your problem WN. I guess it might have helped if we had kept it to one or two questions per post. You may just have to pick 2 or 3 of your faves from your own post.

    Also may I add that Trespass Against Us is probably the only new Chemical release we will get in 2016, yet not one person liked my post/question back on page 1. Whaaaat?  ??? Surely Tom (& Adam) would love to talk about this!
    HQ + Tom will still be picking out questions. My problem came from trying to cut our questions down to a top 30... I am now sending a longlist of nearly every question we asked, just organized and roughly ranked so they can find the better questions first.

    And Skyscraper don't worry about like count too much. Your question's a good un.

    Also, there were a few questions I didn't include since the answer is already known... I will try to answer those ASAP.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Mar 03, 2016, 05:22
    Here are some of the questions which already have answers... (if your question is here it does not mean I did not send it anyway)

    Quote from: Csar on Feb 19, 2016, 21:18

    Why did you give up on this track below which is also known among fans as "Problem/ Question" or "Animal" track and which you played live in 2005 (live set) and 2006 on a DJ set at Summercase festival in Madrid?
    They haven't given up on it yet!

    Quote from: MIKL on Feb 20, 2016, 00:11

    When creating your own music, do you worry about other people using samples/song writing styles that they have used in songs that either you have done or have been influenced by as well? Or do you see it sometimes as intentional and more of a tribute/acknowledgement of the actual sample/style of writing and where it has come from and how its been used as part of that culture/scene?
    They get this a lot in interviews, they always say music isn't linear, everyone is inspired by all sorts of music throughout history, and they have no problem with people adopting their styles, because in a way, they adopted them too. From a 1997 Addicted To Noise interview:

    ATN: Now that people like David Bowie and U2 are incorporating trip hop sounds in their music, do you feel that you were there first?

    Simons: Well, I think we can definitely say that we were doing that before David Bowie. Although David Bowie in the '70s used to make funk records.

    ATN: Plus wasn't David Bowie at one time into Kraftwerk?

    Simons: Yeah, I suppose he was, yeah.

    Rowlands: He went to Berlin because he wanted to recreate the cabaret scene and all that.

    ATN: But you guys feel like you were there first?

    Rowlands: They were all there before us because they're all older than us.

    Simons: We don't really have a problem with them incorporating sounds.

    Rowlands: It's not ours. It doesn't belong to us.

    Rowlands: [Bowie] just made the weirdest record I've heard in a long time. [Begins to sing "Little Wonder."]

    ATN: Have you heard some of the new stuff?

    [Both sing.]

    Simons: Absolutely insane. I don't know what I think about it. They're just two records, separate records playing on the same record which I think is quite a good idea. [laughs] When you hear it, you go... pretty odd, Dave.

    Rowlands: Dave! Pretty odd.

    Quote from: Hutchio on Feb 20, 2016, 15:00
    Are there any plans to release your edit of Charles B 'Lack of Love'? I've been desperate for it since hearing you play it at Bugged Out Weekender 2 or 3 years ago, it is absolutely incredible!
    You can get it at the end of their One Mix! Not unmixed of course.

    Quote from: ThePumisher on Feb 20, 2016, 18:31

    • More order than question, but you have to release a full studio version snow/surface!

    • Where's Hot Acid Rhythm #2?
    Does the Apple Music Festival count for Snow/Surface? The quality is unreal.

    And Hot Acid Rhythm....

    "To be honest, we don't really understand how it happened," Brother Ed Simons said Tuesday at New York's Royalton Hotel. "We didn't call her. Someone did, though. In the past, we've been closely involved with all the collaborations we've done. People have always come to the studio and we've worked together. This is the first time we've done anything through the mail."

    Simons' musicmate, Tom Rowlands, described the track as "a strange sort of Jamaican acid explosion," but Simons quickly added that the song's not quite finished.

    "She's done her bit," Simons said. "But we've still got to mix it and make it flow a bit better."

    The duo said the song will likely come out in America in some form (an Eve-free "Hot Acid Rhythm 1" is on the U.S. version of the Brothers' single "It Began in Afrika," released last month), and they hope that the pairing will pave the way for future hip-hop projects.

    "It's something we've always tried to do," Simons said. "When we were working on Come With Us, we sent a couple of the tracks to Outkast to see if they wanted to do something with us. They said they were quite into the music we sent them, but then they blew up and became more massive. But maybe that's something for the future."

    and I can't find anything else after that!  >:(

    Quote from: Chops on Feb 20, 2016, 18:34

    Do you ever have all the melodies in place when having guests on a track or is it always more organic than that?
    Other than the Further recordings (I believe) it's always more organic, they send a track and give them some notes on what they have in mind for their part.

    Quote from: hstn on Feb 20, 2016, 21:19

    How did you guys find Kate Gibb for the artwork?
    This is a wonderful and beautifully designed article on her work and how they met:

    http://www.cornermag.com/meet-kate-gibb-the-artist-who-charmed-the-chemical-brothers-and-kate-nash/

    "'After my masters, I made all this work, colour-copied it and posted it out to people. Eventually I got my first album cover job from that. Pre-computer! This company contacted me and said: 'Do you want to pitch for this band?' and I got it! Then the following year they asked if I wanted to pitch for another job, and it just so turned out to be an album cover for The Chemical Brothers. It was completely nuts!'

    Gibb was given just a weekend; and although music-obsessed, back then the dance oeuvre was not remotely on her radar. 'Virgin Records used to be where Tom Dixon is on Portobello Dock and I remember going round there to listen to the album. It was just me and the art director, Mark, and their manager in this massive office. There I was, perched on the edge of the sofa with my coat on. And he played the whole of the Surrender album with this surround-sound. I remember Mark saying: 'It's not Belle and Sebastian, is it Kate?'

    By Monday morning she'd thrown every attempt at the brief in the bin. 'I phoned Mark and he said that I had until 11.30am to just do something. I'd gone to see Larry Clark's film Kids and I'd got the book. There were all these contact sheets in it, I just put them on screen and did a treatment and that's what I showed them - and I got it! It was pure fluke!' Chance (as well as a hefty dose of talent) had, again, played its part, and Gibb, for her part, was in disbelief: 'I remember finding out how much I would be paid and thinking: 'I can get a pager!'

    Over the ensuing years, she developed an ongoing relationship with the band, subsquently working on several of their albums. 'When I met them, I learnt how they put their music together. I remember telling Tom telling me that he'd been writing the next album and I said: 'What? You write music?' He looked at me as if I was mad. I just had to say: 'I'm sorry, I have NO idea!' And then I suddenly loved them, because I worked out that they put their music together like a piece of art, with all the layering and textures, like a collage.

    I was a complete convert.'"

    Quote from: estratosferico on Feb 20, 2016, 21:43

    Mr Rowlands,

    We know the capabilites of you an Mr. Howlett (the Prodigy). Will you ever consider make a song together?

    I think this has been asked before, I'm not sure Tom has said anything, but Mr. Howlett has said he's not interested, as it would basically be two guys doing the same job. You've heard The Chems remix of Voodoo People?

    Quote from: ACIDCHILDREN on Feb 21, 2016, 20:58

    Have you ever released any music under a secret alias? If so we would love to know more!
    I'd love to know if he has some other projects, but he did an LP as Harpoon back in 93, and he recorded as "RAR" i.e. Rowlands Audio Research for an I Break Horses remix. He had to call himself RAR because if he had used his real name, his remix would have been too expensive for the band/label to afford, no joke!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Mar 03, 2016, 14:18
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Mar 03, 2016, 05:22


    Quote from: Csar on Feb 19, 2016, 21:18

    Why did you give up on this track below which is also known among fans as "Problem/ Question" or "Animal" track and which you played live in 2005 (live set) and 2006 on a DJ set at Summercase festival in Madrid?
    They haven't given up on it yet!
    Yeah, I remember. But I want to hear that from HIM! And I want a deadline! ;D

    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Mar 03, 2016, 05:22

    He had to call himself RAR because if he had used his real name, his remix would have been too expensive for the band/label to afford, no joke!
    Nice little tidbit! Strange, is Tom Rowland's name bound to his record label he's signed under as part of the Chems?

    Quote from: Skyscraper on Mar 02, 2016, 22:53

    Also may I add that Trespass Against Us is probably the only new Chemical release we will get in 2016, yet not one person liked my post/question back on page 1. Whaaaat?  ??? Surely Tom (& Adam) would love to talk about this!
    Wait, what? Damn, I went back and gave you a thumbs up! I certainly want to know everything about it!

    Btw, I'm fine with any question that'll be landing on Mr. Rowlands table. Maybe you can pick some of the more unusual queries or make it 50/50 (ordinary/extraordinary Qs). Do you have any overview of the FB question to prevent double questions?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Drebbin on Mar 03, 2016, 20:55
    I signed up to ask this one question: Is there any chance you will be releasing a copy of the version of GO you have been playing on your most recent set, particularly the one you played at The Montreux Jazz Festival - https://youtu.be/EdmT1Ab6qHg?list=PL8678B2918E012228&t=832.

    We would all pay good, good money!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Mar 04, 2016, 14:45
    I wonder if it's too late to add another question. Well I hope not...

    If you were to put together a DJ set of current (i.e last 12 months or so) tunes by artists other than the Chems, what sort of stuff would be in there?

    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: whirlygirl on Mar 04, 2016, 15:24
    I LOVE THIS THREAD! Welcome, newcomers!

    WhiteNoise, HQ, and Tom have their work cut out for them. 😊

    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Chops on Mar 07, 2016, 12:39
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Mar 03, 2016, 05:22

    Here are some of the questions which already have answers... (if your question is here it does not mean I did not send it anyway)

    Thanks for answering my question, tbh the only one i really wanted Tom to look at was the one about a one-off festival with as many guest vocalists as possible.  If you can get them to answer that or whether they have ever thought about it, that would be amazeballs.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: TNPTF2007 on Mar 07, 2016, 14:20
    I don't know if I'm too late to still submit a question but if it's still possible:
    Hey Tom I was wondering if you could tell me which synthesizers you used to make the Track Swoon. It may have been asked before but I can't find anything about it and I have been wondering for some time now. Thanks in advanced.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ostidmarde on Mar 09, 2016, 20:00
    Hello Tom! I hope you are doing well! I just had one question, I was wondering if The Chemical Brothers were planning on doing a Canadian tour in the near future? It's been nearly 15 years since you guys last came and I know for a fact that MANY People would love to see The Chemical Brothers live! Thanks yout biggest fan from Montreal Canada! ;D
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Mar 09, 2016, 20:59
    I might send a few late submissions tonight.

    And for the record "Are you guys ever going to play in Canada again" was included in the original list, due to it being the most asked question of all time. :) I really can't guarantee an answer on it.

    The Chems have been doing festival sets more often because playing standalone headline shows, particularly ones in North America, just isn't as profitable, according to a 2007 interview. However you'd think ever since EDM became ridiculously popular this would have changed?

    It's probably the robots. They've taken over and demand an expensive light show.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Mar 09, 2016, 22:14
    Quote from: Drebbin on Mar 03, 2016, 20:55

    I signed up to ask this one question: Is there any chance you will be releasing a copy of the version of GO you have been playing on your most recent set, particularly the one you played at The Montreux Jazz Festival - https://youtu.be/EdmT1Ab6qHg?list=PL8678B2918E012228&t=832.

    We would all pay good, good money!
    I know it's not really my place to answer, but considering how many mixes of this track are already out I'd be extremely surprised if this were to happen. Those of us with the Apple & Glasto live set recordings kinda have this already. I guess if someone were to chop up the "no crowd" Glasto recording then...that's all you need.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: bill kollias on Mar 14, 2016, 17:46
    hi tom i don't know how to contact with you,i hope you read this comment.. i want to make a official remix for my favorite track ''ill see you there''..i send you the demo..i put it on soundcloud because i don't know how to send it to you..i live in greece and this gonna be my first remix ..i hope you like it..actually is a part of the remix . https://soundcloud.com/jessico-beats/ill-see-you-there-remix-demo  ... please check it :D
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: davidm4rtin on Mar 16, 2016, 16:21
    No dates booked for during Glasto, are you playing Glasto 2016?

    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: emartsypaka on Mar 17, 2016, 04:46
    Hi, i'm from Russia. I was watching old USSR movies and found some interesting music from 1973 movie "Eta veselaya planeta" (What a funny planet) titles. I've cut it and uploaded to soundcloud: "What a funny planet" title music piece. (https://soundcloud.com/evgeny-martsypaka/eta-veselaja-planeta). It's sounds like regards to CB from 70s. So my question to Tom: Do you like the sound of 70s synthesizers?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ThePumisher on Apr 02, 2016, 17:32
    So it's over?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Apr 02, 2016, 23:41
    Unstickied since no more questions are being taken... Stay tuned.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: KngtRdr on Apr 10, 2016, 14:43
    I'd just like to shout out @Whitenoise & @Pumisher for two really cool questions... the one about Hot Acid Rhythm #2 (hah, nice).... and the ARIEL reunion. That's some deep brain digging there, guys. :)
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Apr 27, 2016, 03:55
    Just popping in to say this isn't dead - answers will be posted "hopefully soon".
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Bosco on Jun 02, 2016, 00:51
    are these questions being sent via The Pony Express?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Born In Planet Dust on Jun 02, 2016, 01:14
    Go figure, I finally thought of a question.  What is the best song on "Paul's Boutique?"  And b boy bouillabaisse  doesn't count because it is cheating. 
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jun 03, 2016, 16:55
    How soon is now?
    What time is love?
    Don't make me wait, don't make me wait...don't want this to evaporate (check the robot from 3.12 onwards)

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkczzkGrYDQ
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: O.W.T.R.A.R. on Jun 03, 2016, 18:22
    linking
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Enjoyed on Jun 03, 2016, 19:27
    Quote from: O.W.T.R.A.R. on Jun 03, 2016, 18:22

    linking

    Hey guys... I think Tom might be around here somewhere...
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Explud on Jun 03, 2016, 19:50
    Quote from: Enjoyed on Jun 03, 2016, 19:27

    Hey guys... I think Tom might be around here somewhere...
    Nope, one of active forum members is trying to fool us.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jun 04, 2016, 01:13
    Shhh!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jun 04, 2016, 01:26
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Jun 04, 2016, 01:13

    Shhh!
    What would the W stand for? Shouldn't that be an M for Mostyn?
    (BTW it's just occurred to me that Thomas Owen Mostyn abbreviates to TOM)
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jun 04, 2016, 01:42
    Quote from: Skyscraper on Jun 04, 2016, 01:26

    What would the W stand for? Shouldn't that be an M for Mostyn?
    (BTW it's just occurred to me that Thomas Owen Mostyn abbreviates to TOM)
    It's not me I can say for sure. I wanted to see where this was going.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Yoko on Jun 04, 2016, 09:13
    Hi,

    I want to ask what synth do you used for "Loops of fury" lead and how did you create that beautiful patch?
    I banging my head against the wall trying to figure it out. I want to know before i die! :)


    I did figure out the "Chemical Beats" patch(crazy good): https://youtu.be/4PL5Ov2cNSQ


    Thank you!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jun 04, 2016, 10:55
    You might be a bit late Yoko! Questions were submitted to Tom ages ago. We just bumped this thread because we are impatient and perhaps a bit mischevious. 
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Yoko on Jun 04, 2016, 12:45
    He will probably not answer anyway. 10x
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Explud on Jun 04, 2016, 21:14
    Chemical Beats was played by Juno-106 via distortion pedal.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jun 05, 2016, 00:48
    Quote from: Yoko on Jun 04, 2016, 09:13

    Hi,

    I want to ask what synth do you used for "Loops of fury" lead and how did you create that beautiful patch?
    I banging my head against the wall trying to figure it out. I want to know before i die! :)


    I did figure out the "Chemical Beats" patch(crazy good): https://youtu.be/4PL5Ov2cNSQ


    Thank you!

    Yoko this is a really awesome remake. Nice set up you have there!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Jun 05, 2016, 15:58
    Seconded! Great little video! Must be great to be able to re-enact a chemical live set part and twiddle with it :)

    Btw, what's the make of the Bass Line synth that looks similar to the tb303?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Yoko on Jun 06, 2016, 17:36
    Hi  Csar,
    the one on the left is XOXBOX. It's 303 clone(DIY project). Require only soldering. Fun project to build. Google it.
    :)
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Jun 06, 2016, 17:59
    Quote from: Yoko on Jun 06, 2016, 17:36

    Hi  Csar,
    the one on the left is XOXBOX. It's 303 clone(DIY project). Require only soldering. Fun project to build. Google it.
    :)

    Thanks for your reply! A DIY 303? Sounds interesting... and daunting.

    And btw, sorry for my wrongfully editing of your post. I pressed modify instead of quote. Argh.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: androidgeoff on Jun 06, 2016, 18:59
    I want their FR Rev MKII
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Jun 07, 2016, 19:46
    Back on topic: We seriously need some answers sometime soon. It's been almost 4 months now since this was announced and nothing happened. Did this die down or will it be cleverly used for promotional purposes for the new tour?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: androidgeoff on Jun 07, 2016, 19:58
    It might be something for Tom to do to pass the time while traveling on tour

    Or Ed will troll us and answer for him. "What is my favorite track we made? Salmon Dance!"
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jun 07, 2016, 20:22
    When I or anyone hears something, I'll let you all know.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jun 08, 2016, 16:13
    Update: I can confirm Tom's answered the questions.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Joslyn on Jun 08, 2016, 16:24
    Yea :D
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: ThePumisher on Jun 08, 2016, 18:00
    Gefällt mir
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Explud on Jun 08, 2016, 23:14
    Заебись.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Bosco on Jun 09, 2016, 03:48
    all hail O.W.T.R.A.R. !!!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: androidgeoff on Jun 09, 2016, 04:24
    O.W.T.R.A.R.!!!!!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Looneyjason on Jun 11, 2016, 12:48
    What's your favourite pitch shifter ?
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Csar on Jun 12, 2016, 10:25
    Quote from: Looneyjason on Jun 11, 2016, 12:48

    What's your favourite pitch shifter ?
    Hi LooneyJason, I'm afraid but there are no more questions being sent to Mr. Rowlands. Maybe he'll come by here sometime in the future and give some answers but that's probably unlikely. Hope you'll stick around and have fun, though!
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Serendipity on Jun 13, 2016, 21:59
    First of all I'd like to say that English isn't my mother lenguage.

    I'd like to ask Mr. Rowlands if he has ever heard of some recent music genres such as Vaporwave or similar. In case he has I'd also like to know what are his thoughts on that kind of music.

    I'm afraid this might be a pretty silly question. Thanks for reading.
    Title: Re: Ask Tom Rowlands
    Post by: Explud on Jun 13, 2016, 22:56
    Quote from: Serendipity on Jun 13, 2016, 21:59

    First of all I'd like to say that English isn't my mother lenguage.

    I'd like to ask Mr. Rowlands if he has ever heard of some recent music genres such as Vaporwave or similar. In case he has I'd also like to know what are his thoughts on that kind of music.

    I'm afraid this might be a pretty silly question. Thanks for reading.
    Sorry, mate, it's too late. All questions was sent and answered:
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Jun 08, 2016, 16:13

    Update: I can confirm Tom's answered the questions.
    You should be carry for the next time.
    Cheers.

    P.S. Closing this thread, the new thread with the answers will be opened soon.
    Title: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jul 06, 2016, 19:41
    Chemical Brothers & Sisters!

    Greetings from Chemical H.Q.   As promised, Tom Rowlands has answered selected questions from YOU that were posted over at the OFFICIAL FORUM and on the band's Chemical Facebook page. Here's the first batch of answers!

    さようなら さようなら asks:
    What was the most memorable audience member you have ever seen; do you try to ignore the audience?

    Very early on there was a fellow called mick who used to come to all our gigs, he was quite an imposing figure with massive dreadlocks .it was always quite reassuring to see him front and center. When he stopped coming there was always a feeling of "where's mick?  What have we done, why have you forsaken us?

    Do you ever get nervous on stage, at what show were you the most nervous and why?
    I was probably most nervous before Glastonbury 2015, as it was the first big gig without Ed on stage with me. The festival really means a lot to me so I wanted it to be great.  There's so much expectation and anticipation, which can hem you in a bit but just tried to forget that and enjoy it (other football clichés can be applied).  Adam did a great job standing in for Ed and it turned out to be one of the most intense, exciting things I've ever been part of, which was nice...

    What were your hobbies as children - when did you first become interested in music?
    Riding BMX, making jumps/tracks etc.

    What was your favorite subject in Elementary/grade/high School?
    I was always interested in music; a lot of early obsessions came from things I saw on TV.  I had a cool guitar teacher at primary school who would transcribe things I heard like the theme from "mash" and "windmills of my mind" and the James Bond theme. He was great.

    Matt Meuse asks:
    There's a particular crash cymbal sound you use in a lot of your music. It's got that distinctive sound like birds chirping toward the end, which makes it easy to recognize. Off the top of my head, it's in Leave Home, Orange Wedge, Galaxy Bounce, Believe — it's even in Hanna vs. Marissa from the Hanna soundtrack. When I heard a mislabeled version of your Prodigy Voodoo People remix for the first time, I knew it had to be by you because of the crash cymbal. Where does that sample originally come from? What keeps you coming back to it?

    Yes, I love that sound, it has everything I want from a crash including a kick drum, it will live on forever.

    Diego Martín Naccarelli asks:
    Besides the music, as a graphic designer I also love the artwork of all your albums and singles. May I ask what inspires those particular cover choices that you've made and/or how does the artwork relate or maybe even communicate with each album's music?

    It's always been really important.  I put so much love and work into in the music, so why would you do not do the same with artwork.  I see it as another opportunity to be creative and to work with interesting and inspiring people.  I love records, how they look and feel and still find it exciting to make something that might live alongside other albums in someone's collection

    Sebastian Pablo Vidal asks:
    Hello Tom! I wanna thank you for the LP on Phantasy and ask you if you planned to release more of your work soon?

    Thanks, it was fun to do, I like what Erol alkan does with his label and he's a good friend, so it was an easy choice.  As for new material, watch the skies.

    Chavez Cruz‬ asks:
    In the song "The Test", why does the "gotta go to bed now" line that's in the background towards the end, feel so instructive? Every time I stay up late, listening to music, that's the song that I usually tell myself "Yeah, you're right" and then I unplug my headphones and call it a night. Do that on purpose or naw?

    Yes, I love that line, and also" I'm home and I'm free ", have often felt that way myself. Richard Ashcroft is an amazing singer/songwriter/force of nature

    Gordon Jamieson asks:
    Is Ed getting grumpy in his old age?

    No

    Eddie Dean asks:
    What song do you wish you had written?

    Paul Simon's "Graceland"

    Busted Hendricks asks:
    From Madrid, Spain: Hello Mr. Rowlands, my ask is very personal.... When you start your career of music, you've sacrificed something important to groove in the music like a good job or a girlfriend and after have regrets? Thanks for your attention and excuse if I offend you.

    I suppose that when you do something you love it doesn't feel like a sacrifice.

    Steve Ruybe‬‬‬ asks:
    Who is your favorite author?

    Evelyn Waugh and John Steinbeck

    whirlygirl asks:
    Hey Tom! What do you think of Star Wars: A Force Awakens? How many times have you seen it, and... Did you shed a tear when that thing happened to that one guy from the original trilogy.... you know?

    Hi Whirly, good to hear from you!
    Yes, seen it quite a few times with the Rowlands gang. Really enjoyed it. Felt it was almost like a 2015 remix of the original Star Wars

    WhiteNoise asks:
    Tom, it was great of you to give up an hour of your evening to hang out with us geeks in Chicago.

    It was fun, good to meet you all.

    Knowing that you and Eddy are huge fans of New Order, what was it like meeting them for the first time? What is it like to produce and write songs with them now, especially on their newest album?
    Yeah, new order is something very special to me.  NO and Joy Division's  music has been a constant presence through my life. Working on the latest album "music complete" was such a buzz and I'm really happy for them that it's been well received. it was great that Gillian came back in to write, her melodic stuff is really cool and definitely gives the band something else

    I also find Bernard and Stephen real inspirations, they both work really hard at what they do and still have that drive and desire to try and do something great

    Csar asks:
    Tom, what do your family members / neighbors say when you're producing loud electronic music, experimenting with synths? Have you ever bothered them with it? Do you consult your family from time to time when making certain tracks?

    Yeah sometimes my kids wander in, they're always quite good instinctive judges of what's happening, mostly it's,"this is boring, lets do something else." which is often about right...

    Fragor asks:
    Hi Tom, I am writing from Mexico. While making music have you ever experienced anything paranormal? Does your inspiration come from something spiritual? You play with soundwaves like nobody else!

    No.

    hstn and Dynn Javier ask:
    What's your favorite visual by Adam or favorite performance over the course of the Chemical Brothers?

    So many, I've always loved what he does for the band.  Adam is someone who really understands what the band is trying to do when we play live. This tour I really loved the "rotor" sequence he shot for EML Ritual, it had just the right mix of terrifying fun and dizzying excitement

    Stefan asks:
    What's the power consumption of a typical Chemical Brothers Live show?

    Lots, sometimes too much, as we've found out to our cost a few times...

    InChemWeTrust asks:
    All three of you (You, Ed and Adam) should be on stage sometime. Can it happen? I'm sure there's plenty of room on stage for all 3 of you.

    3 way jam? Maybe one day..

    Chops and  Andrew Martin ask:
    Have you ever considered a one off live show complete with loads of your collaborators performing the tracks with you? I realize it would be a logistical nightmare but I would love this to happen.

    Yeah, we've sometimes discussed a "last waltz" kind of thing but would probably only really makes sense as our farewell concert and hopefully that's a while off.

    Fox asks:
    Being a beginner producer I have a relentless feeling of unsatisfaction when working on tracks. I just can't enjoy it and always feel it's not good and too far from my expectations. But I mostly like my tracks when I listen to them later. How do you guys decide when a track is completed? Do you consider external feedback? Do you manage to actually feel satisfied of your tracks when working on it?

    I always feel when I can listen to something back and not want to change anything about it then it's done, never really feel "satisfied" with stuff, I guess that's why I still have that incessant feeling to keep making music

    Apostle, Sneaker, thg and Hutchio all ask:
    Are there any plans to release some of your DJ edits, like Lack of Love or C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L? Are/were plans for a Brothers Gonna Work it Out follow up on the table? It would be a great way to get some of those exclusive edits out.

    That would be cool, I've made so many over the years that it might be nice to put them all out in a release. Whilst we still dj though we'll probably just keep them for our own sets

    Csar and ThePumisher ask:
    What does the mysterious track name K+B+D on Further stand for?

    Not telling.

    WhiteNoise asks:
    We've discovered some early prototype nicknames for songs like Guitar Tuned to D, Germ, Jabba... What are some great names we haven't heard? What happened to the track called Contra?

    "Bert in Africa" or "peter the bellboy" are ones that stick in the mind for some reason. "Contra" is still a work in progress

    WhiteNoise asks:
    I think I remember that you like cycling. What kind of bike do you have? Do you listen to any music when you ride?

    Yes, I've loved cycling from an early age. I don't listen to music whilst cycling though, I like it as a time to think, get lost in the repetition

    Csar asks:
    Will the octave kitten ever get a key repair?

    Not that one, but we now have a box fresh one that might come out someday

    AndroidGeoff asks:
    How long did you spend making Wonders of the Deep?

    A while, can you tell????

    AndroidGeoff asks:
    Your vocals are featured on many tracks! Which is your favorite?

    Probably either "swoon" or "Hanna's theme" though I like them all, if I didn't, you wouldn't hear them.

    Biff asks:
    Most importantly, what is the SH-101 used for live? This has been driving me crazy for 15 years and I'm sure the answer is obvious. Is it just to brag that you guys have one and they cost insane amounts of money now due to hype?

    It runs through a Morely distortion/wah and is responsible for the drone sound that get's played around with when we first come on stage, it then gets used for siren type sounds later in the set

    InChemWeTrust asks:
    Any possibility in releasing Superflash? (the DJ version, not the live version) And why are there 2 versions of this track? Also, is there a chance get C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L released too?

    Maybe



    That's all for now... more news soon from Chemical HQ!
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Redout_Chemical on Jul 06, 2016, 20:02
    Interesting.

    I love some of his answers, even if they were a bit vague or did not actually answer them. Like the K+B+D question made me laugh.

    Too bad no answer to the Canada question though.
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jul 06, 2016, 20:14
    What can Tom tell us about the Trespass Against Us soundtrack and film?
    No reply.

    Bernard Sumner says he thinks that Giacomo who did the Italian voice on Tutti Frutti is a guy who works in Tom's local sandwich shop. True?
    No reply.

    If you were to put together a DJ set of current (i.e last 12 months or so) tunes by artists other than the Chems, what sort of stuff would be in there?
    No reply.

    Skyscraper hit rate 0/3. Am I old enough to not sulk about this? Yes. Will I sulk anyway? I might.  :-\
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jul 06, 2016, 20:19
    I repeat, here's the first batch of answers.
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jul 06, 2016, 20:21
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Jul 06, 2016, 20:19

    I repeat, here's the first batch of answers.
    I saw that but...I'm skeptical.
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Biff on Jul 06, 2016, 20:26
    Yay, my question was finally answered. I can die in peace...

    Wait, now I'm curious about which Morley/wah pedal...
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Explud on Jul 06, 2016, 21:11
    Sad, my not answered. :(

    Quote from: Biff on Jul 06, 2016, 20:26

    Yay, my question was finally answered. I can die in peace...

    Wait, now I'm curious about which Morley/wah pedal...
    I was right!

    Quote from: Explud on Feb 20, 2016, 14:50

    It's used for this intro thing:
    http://thechembase.com/media/intro-sh101.mp3
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Csar on Jul 06, 2016, 21:22
    Wow! I didn't want it to end, I love reading some nice insight tidbits! Also, I wasn't expecting any of my questions to be answered, but man, three? That's a bit of a surprise (fingers crossed for you, Skyscraper, for the second batch!).

    So, Tom, you actually refused to tell us the story behind K+D+B? Hm... making the mystery even more mysterious. Perhaps it is true what Pumisher said about it. It's god-like, isn't it? The formula would reveal the chems' mystical ingredients that make them so special in their field.

    Looking forward to the next round, hopefully with less vague answeres ;)
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: inchemwetrust on Jul 06, 2016, 21:34
    Thank you Tom for delivering. And this is just the beginning.
    Cant believe a new kitten is waiting to purr onstage. Good answers all in all.

    But no C.H.E.M.I.C.A.L.or SF!😭😭😭

    Waiting for the 2nd batch

    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: ThePumisher on Jul 06, 2016, 22:26
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Jul 06, 2016, 19:41

    Csar and ThePumisher ask:
    What does the mysterious track name K+B+D on Further stand for?

    Not telling.
    I didn't ask that! Csar did! I've asked for K+D+B! Thats why he's not telling...  >:(
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Enjoyed on Jul 06, 2016, 22:47
    That was freakin' excellent!

    Thanks so much, Tom!

    I kinda wish I'd asked more now, but everyone else is asking great things all around.

    Solidly top performance from everybody. Well done.
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: inchemwetrust on Jul 07, 2016, 00:18
    I just noticed that Tom didn't answer Matt's question of the bird chirp sample.

    I liked Tom's answer from WN. Contra is coming though.

    I wonder which song is Peter the bellboy?
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jul 07, 2016, 01:40
    Quote from: inchemwetrust on Jul 07, 2016, 00:18

    I just noticed that Tom didn't answer Matt's question of the bird chirp sample.
    Never reveal your sources!

    Quote from: ThePumisher on Jul 06, 2016, 22:26

    I didn't ask that! Csar did! I've asked for K+D+B! Thats why he's not telling...  >:(
    Shit
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: whirlygirl on Jul 07, 2016, 04:42
    What a great read!! You guys all know the greatest questions to ask! Especially the tech ones. That's why I decided that maybe pursuing journalism all those years ago really wasn't for me. :P I never know what to ask but am tickled pink that Tom liked the new remixed Star Wars, haha!
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: whirlygirl on Jul 07, 2016, 04:43
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Jul 06, 2016, 20:19

    I repeat, here's the first batch of answers.

    Rad! Can't wait for the second round! :D
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Foxboy on Jul 07, 2016, 04:47
    Pretty cool, but who is Fox?  :o
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Csar on Jul 07, 2016, 08:17
    Quote from: ThePumisher on Jul 06, 2016, 22:26

    I didn't ask that! Csar did! I've asked for K+D+B!
    Can we track this a##hole down and tar and feather him? I swear, if I see him, I'll make him eat his K+B+D!
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: ThePumisher on Jul 07, 2016, 10:15
    Quote from: WhiteNoise on Jul 06, 2016, 19:41

    over at the OFFICIAL FORUM and on the band's Chemical Facebook page.
    So we are official now? Asking because it still says "you are leaving the official site" when clicking on the forum-link
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: sandelic on Jul 07, 2016, 15:23
    WhiteNoise, thanks for asking about New Order, that would have been my question too  :)
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: MadPooter on Jul 08, 2016, 05:36
    Really cool of Tom to hop on and answer questions.

    THANKS TOM!
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: GLAKO-FAHN on Jul 09, 2016, 02:44
    SH-101 answer...(◑‿◐)
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Biff on Jul 22, 2016, 13:29
    Oh, yeah now I see the Morely by the 101.
    https://mobile.twitter.com/Midimatt001/status/756511792587735041/photo/1
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: elvisish on Aug 04, 2016, 10:17
    Quote from: ThePumisher on Jul 06, 2016, 22:26

    I didn't ask that! Csar did! I've asked for K+D+B! Thats why he's not telling...  >:(
    keyboards drums bass
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Jul 14, 2017, 20:26
    Unpinning this until the next round of questions (and before anyone asks, I can't confirm when that'll be yet!)
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: ThePumisher on Jul 14, 2017, 22:51
    Can you confirm when the next is?
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jul 25, 2017, 23:04
    Quote from: ThePumisher on Jul 06, 2016, 22:26

    I didn't ask that! Csar did! I've asked for K+D+B! Thats why he's not telling...  >:(
    Does Tom have three kids by any chance?
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: ThePumisher on Jul 26, 2017, 18:29
    Quote from: Skyscraper on Jul 25, 2017, 23:04

    Does Tom have three kids by any chance?
    Go on, i love that plot twist
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Wolkenkrabber on Jul 27, 2017, 16:34
    Quote from: ThePumisher on Jul 26, 2017, 18:29

    Go on, i love that plot twist
    Well it really was just a question. I'm sure you already know what I'm thinking: If he has three kids maybe K, D and B are their first initials. But I don't even know how many kids he has.
    Might explain why he replied with "not telling", beacause it's private. But if we investigate this idea any further (no pun intended) we're prying, I guess...
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: whirlygirl on Aug 11, 2017, 13:30
    I know I'm just a tad bit tardy here, hehe.

    Tom does have three kiddos, but those aren't their initials. ;-)

    I thought Ed might have once said what K+D+B stood for, but either that was on the old forum or was in an interview. Or I could be mistaken. Otherwise I'd like to think I'd remember something like that. Then again, my memory does tend not to serve me as correctly or as often these days!!
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: Rose on Apr 03, 2018, 17:15
    WOOOW he has three kids!! That's why he is so cool and caring. Not a hip hop star for sure ;) it is said that raising three children is a way to heaven. And what is more human than having children, he has three that makes him triple.
    Title: Re: "ASK TOM" QUESTIONS ANSWERED
    Post by: androidgeoff on Apr 06, 2018, 00:57
    seeing as "you are all my children now" is part of chem bros he has way more than 3 kids
    Title: Q A with Tom Rowlands 2016
    Post by: bennieneebY on Apr 25, 2019, 00:24
    Throughout the bible slavery is practiced and there is nothing said againt it. So how come we make such a big fuss because we were slaves. Given that we go by Gods word - the Bible?
    Title: Re: Q & A with Tom Rowlands (2016)
    Post by: WhiteNoise on Apr 25, 2019, 00:49
    Quote from: bennieneebY on Apr 25, 2019, 00:24

    Throughout the bible slavery is practiced and there is nothing said againt it. So how come we make such a big fuss because we were slaves. Given that we go by Gods word - the Bible?

    This is what we all forgot to ask Tom - context-less incoherent social / theological questions
    Title: Re: Q & A with Tom Rowlands (2016)
    Post by: Bosco on Apr 25, 2019, 01:02
    all will be answered in their follow-up record, 'Yes, Theology'