Chicago’s whysowhite aren’t the type of band that we typically write about on Allston Pudding, but then again, there’s nothing really typical about them at all. The eight-piece funk/jazz/hip-hop collective don’t call home to any genre or audience, but instead create their own sonic realm that could make any stiff, square, or herb wiggle even a little bit. The band recently put out their debut full-length, toured down to SXSW, played gigs with the likes of Macklemore, and are now making a stop in Boston on Sunday, May 26th to play Church with Les Racquet and American Symphony of Soul. You can check out their entire LP, streaming on their Soundcloud. Here are a few words we had with the band.
To get the general stuff out of the way, tell me how all eight of you were able to come together to share the vision of this band? In what ways was Chicago the perfect place to form whysowhite?
whysowhite has been an evolving entity since it began in 2010. The summer time in Chicago can be magical and inspired some Evanston natives and their friends to create and experience to promote love, fun, funk, n dancin’. Chicago funk love, baby!
A lot of bands claim a wide range of influences, but your band actually seems to put them to use. Do you ever find that it’s difficult to reach 1 core audience when you incorporate so many different genres or has it been the complete opposite?
Having a diverse sound, we create a diverse following. We love bringing new people together– it’s the power of positive partying.
Your debut album dropped in February. Are there additional obstacles involved when you have such a big band? Did you have a specific approach in mind for recording this one, or did you take it as a trial-and-error type of thing since it was the band’s first?
There are definitely challenges with a large group. It takes focus, communication and understanding to craft a sound that has all of our happy hands on it. Our recording process was forced upon us, and it happened as our lives happened. The record was a 22-month venture, which allowed for it to mature, and for us to learn.
Hannah is the only female in a band full of dudes. How do you survive when it comes to touring?
I sit next to the window for easy fresh air access on the road 🙂 Really though, these dudes are sensitive, loving dudes and I couldn’t be luckier. Plus they’re all hilarious, so the laughter never stops
Dave (Sumberg, bassist), last time I caught up with you, you were studying music at Northwestern and at that moment, you said you were on a big noise rock kick. I’m sure these discoveries and mini obsessions with bands and genres come and go all the time, especially when you’re studying music. How do these transient musical tastes make songwriting easier or more difficult?
Exposure to diverse musical material is essential for me. Different music uses different compositional tools, and the more tools you have the more you can craft a sound.
You guys have been able to share the stage with acts like Macklemore, Chiddy Bang, and more. When it comes to playing with other bands, what would be the dream tour for you guys?
The Roots and whysowhite would be one hell of a show for us