Photo courtesy of John Errol
The Opener is The FADER’s mini-interview series with exciting new artists we think you should know.
John Errol’s music captures the ghostly glow of nights in Los Angeles.
Walls of guitar, washed out vocals, and booming live drums make up the L.A. artist's sensitive indie. What often stands out though is Errol’s sweetly crafted melodies — which can be heard on recent singles like “Shifting Sands” and “Like it like that.” They’re so ear wormy that they sound like radio rock from the early-2000s. But beyond their alluring catchiness, there’s a depth and a looming sense of lore that reminds one of Ethel Cain’s own musical world building.
Errol is releasing his second full length album Damage on October 30, a day before Halloween. Its fitting timing for the gothic record, which sounds as if it's haunted by both ghosts and uncertain memories. The record feels almost heavy with time — which makes sense given that it was workshopped over five years in key, historic venues across Los Angeles like Zebulon and Gold Diggers. He’ll be performing songs from his new record during two shows in California with rediscovered indie auteur Nirsota Steel this December.
The FADER caught up with Errol over email to chat about his love of Cece Natalie and The Cure, “banging [his] head against the wall” to make his music, and his favorite William Faulkner quote.
Photo courtesy of John Errol
The FADER: What’s the coolest thing to do in your hometown?
John Errol: Going to the valley and getting a donut from Donut Hut in the off hours. I have pretty un-cool taste when it comes to activity. I go to the mall. I walk around Hollywood Blvd.
Tell us about the first album you bought and why.
I think it was Bloodflowers by The Cure. The first concert I ever went to was the Curiosa Festival when I was 11 under the influence of my goth older cousin. I’m pretty sure I bought it because I liked the album cover.
What was the last movie you watched, and give a short review.
You might be shocked to learn it wasn’t Taxi Driver.
Photo courtesy of John Errol
When you’re not making music, how do you spend your free time?
Emotionally bludgeoning myself or thinking about the music I plan on making.
What’s a motto you think everyone should live by?
Bold strokes only.
Explain a lyric of yours that people misunderstand.
Some people think I’m saying “I listen” instead of “Allison.” But I really do welcome misunderstanding.
What’s a song you’d want to remix and why?
Perhaps a wild card. But “Miracle” by Cece Natalie. I have an industrial vision for it.
Photo courtesy of John Errol.
Show us the last meme you saved to your phone.
I don’t save memes, I don’t know how to respond to friends who send me memes. I’m sorry.
What’s the best thing you’ve bought for $100 or less?
A Casio SK-1 I found on the street. I used it on 70% of the record
Tell us about your favorite tattoo OR your favorite accessory.
Lately I’ve stripped down in terms of anything excessive. But my partner made me a necklace with two charms, a canine and a gun, which I cherish.
Best advice you’ve gotten
“A good artist believes that nobody is good enough to give him advice.” - William Faulkner. Which also means that sometimes I don’t take this advice either.
Describe your perfect afternoon.
Banging my head against the wall until a good idea comes out of me.
What’s something you’re looking forward to?
Winter is my favorite season albeit not much of one in California. I’m my most inspired when it gets dark out at 5 pm. So I look forward to writing and recording again. I’ll also be supporting Nirosta Steel on a few California dates in December.
Describe the best concert you’ve attended.
Would probably have to be my first. The Cure. It changed everything for me. Other than that, it was NIN at the Palladium in 2018. They brought Gary Numan out. Truly insane.
What’s the last thing you wrote in your notes app?
Live and let down.
Photo courtesy of John Errol.
