Ever since Charlemagne’s We Can Build An Island got the Tuesday’s Gold stamp of approval, we’ve had a constant reminder of the genius that is Carl Johns and how much we miss having him and his band here in Madison. We caught up with Carl recently for our continuing 5 Questions with Muzzle of Bees feature, if you’re looking for a boost to your record collection, may we recommend We Can Build An Island.

Could you lend some information on the recording process of We Can Build An Island? Where and how was it recorded, and were there any lessons learned that you’ll apply towards future recording sessions?

We recorded at Wavelab in Tucson for 10 days. It was all analog and mixed manually.

Recording is always kind of a mental vacuum for me. It’s very intense when I’m in it, but then it’s a blur in memory. I don’t know yet about future sessions.

You guys recently played the King Club in support of the new record. How was it returning to Madison, any place you had to revisit or miss since leaving town?

It was really great. I love the King Club.

Schley Pass

What was the last show you went to see, as a fan? Also, who’s at the top of your list as far as concerts you’d want to see?

Oneida, Alan Vega, Simply Saucer, Old Time Relijun at Southpaw in Brooklyn.

Bjork

It’s went by fast, but 2007 is almost coming to a close. Do you have any favorite records that were released this year that you could recommend?

The Kissing Party “Rediscover Lovers”
Oneida “Happy New Year”
Sleeping In The Aviary “Oh This Old Thing?”

The internet has dramatically altered the way bands can reach an audience. With things like blogs/myspace/etc, what are your thoughts on the power of the internet in terms of helping (or hurting) your music?

I like it. I figure it’s like anything else though. Some people use it in a good way, some people are motherfuckers. I’m not online that much these days, so most of my opinion is based on asking friends who are online all the time. They seem pretty excited. I like the idea of donations for downloads.

Myspace: Charlemagne
MP3: Charlemagne – You Are My Diary
MP3: Charlemagne – New Train