Nashville based The Wild Feathers have melded the four unique voices of Ricky Young, Joel King, Taylor Burns and Preston Wimberly, taking inspiration from across the musical spectrum – country, blues, folk and rock – and spinning it into a roaring web of warm, cosmic melodies with vintage roots and modern tones on their brand new self-titled album, which is out now through Warner Bros Records.
We chatted with Ben Jarvis from the band about the connection of music and food, his favourite music venue to eat and who he what musicians he would love to invite over for a dinner party.
What were your food influences when you were growing up and what kind of food did you eat at home or with your family?
Growing up, my family always encouraged me to try new things to eat. Especially if we were out of town or on vacation, we made sure to experience the local cuisine and not miss out on the opportunity to experience something new and different.
Do you think there’s a connection between food and music?
My favorite connection between food and music is the efficacy of entertainment and celebration that they share. What are the key ingredients to a good party? Great food and music!
Where’s your favourite music venue to eat at?
I have to say the 9:30 club in DC. The food is delicious and there is a good variety of options, but I’m going with the 9:30 because the first time we played there was such an amazing night for us and was the biggest crowd up to that point that I had performed in front of. So that meal and night always sticks out in my mind.
Do you have any food horror stories from being on tour?
I get really cranky and agitated if I go too long without eating. So one time I snapped at a stranger in the parking lot of a restaurant when she asked me if we were in a band. I felt bad about it after I ate.
If you were throwing a dinner party and could invite any musicians, living or dead, who would they be and why?
I’d really love to have Elvis Presley at a dinner party to see what he is like in person. Otis Redding would also be fun, and he was a southern boy like me, so we would probably enjoy some of the same food. And Neko Case, because I’d want to flirt with her.
Is there anything you wont eat?
I am a very adventurous eater. I will try anything that is proven to be edible, not harmful, and classified as “food.” And I like to try the oddest thing on the menu at times.
What’s the best comfort studio food and drinks?
Barbeque and beer. Classy, right? But it’s the truth.
What is on The Wild Feathers cooking place list?
Whatever is next in the stack of vinyl. Right now there are a lot of old soul LP’s. Otis Redding, Jackson 5, Diana Ross. It’s fun to dance around the kitchen a little bit.
This is your last day on earth, what is your final meal?
Mom’s spaghetti. Nothing beats it and there is only one place you can get it.
The Wild Feathers self-titled album is out not through Warner Bros Records.
