In the Studio with Kasabian: ‘We Never Thought We’d See Success Again’
BBC News
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Kasabian
Image caption:
Serge Pizzorno’s home studio sits in the middle of the Leicestershire countryside, surrounded by farmland and fish ponds
By Mark Savage, Music Correspondent
Published 20 minutes ago
"A little bit of hunger is good for you," says Serge Pizzorno, Kasabian’s frontman, describing a typical day in his home recording studio. "No distractions, four or five hours a day. I like to work fast."
The Kasabian frontman bans snacks and phones but might screen a David Lynch film in the background while tinkering with his vast array of synths and guitars.
"I even cut out the lunch break."
This is a stark contrast to Kasabian’s early days, when Serge would "live the French poet life," staying up for three-day stretches seeking inspiration at the limits of human endurance. "That can be great… But for the last three albums, I’ve pretty much led a structured life, and I’m really digging it."
Serge has invited the BBC into his studio to preview Kasabian’s ninth album, Act III, 10 days before its release.
The Journey to the Studio:
Drive deep into rural Leicestershire, pass through a gated house where Serge’s wife, Amy, and their unruly dogs greet you, and step into a secret walled garden. There stands the studio—a stark black cube jutting into the countryside, guarded by a giant sculpture of a gorilla.
The Studio: A Glimpse Inside:
- A Serene Workspace: The studio is an austere space with quirky vintage synths, many of which appear on Act III.
- Art and Acoustic: Wall art provides acoustic dampening while a fridge offers milk for tea breaks.
Kasabian’s New Sound:
Serge plays us Soulmate, a fun and affectionate tribute to Amy, powered by a peacocking guitar riff. Then comes Say You (Closer), whose message of togetherness brims with gorgeous three-part harmonies.
It’s the closest Kasabian have ever come to sounding like The Eagles—a style Serge is nervous about replicating live, joking that he might get the crowd to participate. "I feel like it’s not a very melodic time," he admits. "…but I’m excited to see where this goes."
