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I caught up with Murray McLeod from The Xcerts backstage at 2000 Trees Festival to chat about their brilliant new album, songwriting, guitar gear and why they're choosing to push back against AI and fight for real human creativity. It turned into one of those conversations that goes way beyond promoting a record.
We also talk about the first songs Murray ever learned after discovering Nirvana Unplugged, writing songs as a teenager, finding your own voice, why a capo is still one of the most underrated songwriting tools, and the gear that's become essential to the band. There are loads of little gems in here for anyone who writes songs or loves guitar.
If you've never checked out The Xcerts before, I really hope this interview sends you down that rabbit hole. They're one of those bands that have quietly built an incredible catalogue over the years, and it was great to finally sit down and have a proper chat with Murray.
00:00 Why 2000 Trees means so much to The Xcerts
01:46 Playing the new album in full
03:11 Why live music is about human connection
04:35 Favourite song from the new album
05:45 Shoegaze influences & My Bloody Valentine
06:20 First guitar songs & Nirvana Unplugged
07:45 Starting to write original songs
09:05 The "chip on the shoulder" mentality
10:20 Returning to the band's roots
11:14 Favourite piece of guitar gear
12:03 Boss Poly Shift, capos & alternate tunings
📸 Thumbnail photo by Carla Munday https://www.carlamundy.co.uk/
#TheXcerts #Songwriting #AndyGuitar #2000Trees #AlternativeRock