Pond Releases Ultimate Album ‘Stung!’

What better way to celebrate your 10th studio album than by making it a double LP? Such is the case for Pond, the Australian psych-rockers, who meet this milestone with Stung!.

Despite being recorded in founding member Jay Watson’s (AKA Gum) backyard studio, with members coming and going to lay down parts, Stung! exudes a band-in-a-room feel. From start to finish, it feels like the ultimate Pond album: flanger-soaked guitars, propulsive drumming, and enveloping sonic details culminate in a stirring accomplishment of a record.

Following the record’s release in June, guitarist and multi-instrumentalist “Shiny Joe” Ryan sat down with Uproxx for an interview about various topics.

What are four words you would use to describe your music?

Eat more cheese now.

It’s 2050 and the world hasn’t ended, and people are still listening to your music. How would you like it to be remembered?

I’d like our music to be remembered as an example of egoless, joyful, creative freedom between friends. But really, when you listen to our music, I’d like your mind to drift off—like when you’re washing dishes or vacuuming. It’s a special time when your mind can wander. Apply that to 2050, even if we’re in hyperspace washing dishes ahead of setting foot on Mars.

What’s your favorite city in the world to perform?

Barcelona, definitely! But I’m desperate to perform in Ireland, so all ye Irish promoters, hit us up, please!

Who’s the person who has most inspired your work, and why?

I’m currently playing with them. My bandmates and best friends have always inspired me. I also get inspiration from new artists and various mediums, which I apply to my music.

Where did you eat the best meal of your life?

It’s tough to choose just one. One that stands out is eating New Zealand Green Lipped Mussels freshly picked from the underside of Jamie’s dad’s jetty and immediately enjoyed with a white wine sauce, along with fresh fish we caught that day between the North and South Islands of New Zealand.

Tell us about the best concert you’ve ever attended.

That’s hard to say, but Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds at Primavera Porto in Portugal jumps out. It was my first time seeing them, and the performance floored me. I still feel the effects today.

What song never fails to make you emotional?

“An Buachaill Caol Dubh” played on the uilleann pipes by Liam O’Flynn. The song is a lament and watching Liam play it on DVD is how I learned to play the pipes myself.

Who’s your favorite person to follow on social media?

@Blindboyboatclub on Instagram. Also, check out his podcast!

What’s the last thing you Googled?

Fuel Watch to find where the cheap fuel is so I can fill up my 97 Ford Explorer.

Where’s the weirdest place you’ve ever crashed while on tour?

In a lovely wooden, well-lit house in Wellington, NZ. When the sun came up, we were surrounded by arcade machines in various states of repair and enjoyed a lovely cup of tea.

What’s the story behind your first or favorite tattoo?

Just out of high school, after a big row with my parents, I went to my friend’s house. Their doom band, ‘Cease,’ and friends from ‘Sex Panther’ offered me a tattoo of a panther paw. As I was getting it, still emotional from the fight, my friends gathered around chanting “one of us.” It was beautiful and unforgettable.

What’s one piece of advice you’d give to your 18-year-old self?

You don’t need all those guitars. Also, buy as many Rhodes and Wurlitzers as possible and sell them now for a stupid amount of money. Haha.

What’s one of your hidden talents?

I can draw pretty well, but I don’t do it often. It’s something I’m trying to change.

If you had a million dollars to donate to charity, what cause would you support and why?

When I was younger, I would have said the kidney foundation because I have only one kidney. Now, I’d talk to local community figures to see where the money is needed most. It could do a lot of good here in Perth.

What are your thoughts about AI and the future of music?

Bring it on. I’m not worried.

What is your pre-show ritual?

I usually start by listening to a bit of AC/DC or Midnight Oil. Recently, I rediscovered “I See You Baby” by Groove Armada/Gramma Funk. Basically, just trying to get a bit of movement in, stretch out the legs and arms, and fire up without getting too fired up.

You have a month off and the resources to take a dream vacation. Where are you going and who is coming with you?

Taking my partner to Ireland, finally!

Who was your first celebrity crush?

Shania Twain.

What is your biggest fear?

The fear of not trying something because I might fail. And getting taken by a crocodile.

Stung! is available now via Spinning Top Records.