A spotlight interview with Sienna of Baltimore's Pearl, ahead of the release of their debut LP Love and Grief, out April 20 via 20/20 Records.
How did you choose your band name?
The name Pearl came about because we liked the juxtaposition between how smooth, shiny and opulent the gem was in contrast to the rough and aggressive vocal and instrumental quality of our music. It feeds into the idea of being a gem in the rough. Also I think generally we are all somewhat unsuspecting off stage so it’s often a surprise for people who don’t know us to see how we perform, which can be kind of wild.
Who’s in the band, and what do you all play?
Sienna Cureton-Mahoney (vocals), Tommy Rouse (guitar), Jesse Hutchison (bass), Flynn DiGuardia (drums).
Describe your sound in three words.
Cathartic, Heavy, Sweet
If you could rip up the rulebook of the music industry, what’s the first thing you’d rewrite?
I would get rid of the idea of genres unless it was in an archival or historical context pertaining to music. It keeps a somewhat pretentious divide alive, when in reality most music and art is rebellious in nature. I think our next round of songs will be a nod to our previous albums but will probably start straying outside the box more. I love a variety show where artists who riff off of one another aren’t afraid to be on the same bill just because their music is different. The overall attitude and artistry is really what connects us all.
Share the inspiration behind your upcoming LP, Love And Grief
The inspiration behind our single [‘Spiral’] was lived experience in a city, Baltimore, which we love and stand for, and the chaos of our political climate. It’s a nightmare, but for the most part all hellacious obstacles dwindle with time and energy due to our communal resistance and solidarity.
What’s your writing process?
In terms of the writing process, I aim to make songs that read like a diary. It gives insight into my personal life and my immediate political and social truth, but in a first person narrative. The aim is not to speak for anyone or to preach, but the hope is that the audience may see glimpses of themselves in the lyrics.
