Breaking Through | 5 Questions with Moaning

Swapping claustrophobic guitars for synth-heavy compositions on their recent sophomore album, L.A. trio Moaning add scope to their emotions laid bare, choosing to prioritise vulnerability over aggression.

Posted: 13 May 2020 Words: Tom Curtis-Horsfall

For Fans Of: Human League, Depeche Mode, Black Marble

Part of L.A.'s teeming DIY punk scene for the best part of a decade, Moaning have a veteran perspective of co-existing with the anxieties and darkness that swarms within the City Of Angels.

For their second full-length release on Sub Pop, Uneasy Laughter, Moaning prioritised vulnerability and self-reflection over aggression and destruction, the L.A. trio swapping out claustrophobic guitars in place of synths-heavy compositions that add scope, fleshing out the emotions laid bare.

We caught up with beautifully succinct vocalist Sean Solomon to shed some light on a band competing with their own disquiet:

- When did you first 'get into' music? Was there a particular artist or band that started it for you?

I started playing guitar because of The Beatles. When I was 13, bands like Nirvana and Sonic Youth inspired me to make music the focus of my life.

- How would you describe your sound?

Sad, sexy, and sinister. Hah!

- What's been your favourite performance to date?

There’s too many to pick! I really enjoyed our tour with The Breeders - I’ve been a fan since I was a kid.

- What's the best advice you've ever been given?