The career of John McCauley is both complex and interesting. He is the singer and primary songwriter behind Deer Tick, who has released five critically-acclaimed albums and a handful of EPs over the past eight years. While that would be enough for the majority of artists, during that time period, John also wrote and sang in Diamond Rugs (with members of Dead Confederate and Black Lips) for two albums and in Middle Brother (with members of Dawes and Delta Spirit) for one album. Beyond that output was a fair amount of touring with his Deer Tick bandmates as Deervana, a Nirvana tribute band.
Currently on break from all of the aforementioned groups, John McCauley has a run of dates including all four City Winery venues coming up. He will be playing solo at New York’s City Winery on September 7th, and as noted in our Q&A, John’s setlist for that show is far from pre-planned.
Beyond all of this, 2015 has brought plenty for John to celebrate as he and wife Vanessa Carlton – whose marriage ceremony was officiated by Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac – recently welcomed their first child into the world.
What do you wish more people knew about you?
John McCauley: I’m a very shy person, although some people may find that hard to believe. I usually keep my personal views to myself, but to give you some perspective, I am a liberal, feminist and ally to people of all races, genders and sexual orientations. I am an avid gamer, I study Japanese, I am a chilihead, and just in case you don’t know this about me, I collect all things California Raisins, which in turn collect dust.
How does a solo gig of yours compare to one with Deer Tick?
J: I’m free to play whatever I want, originals, covers…There’s no need to rehearse anything with other people. I can freely pull from the songs I’ve written for Middle Brother and Diamond Rugs too. It’s probably much easier for the listener to understand my lyrics when it’s just me and a guitar.
These City Winery gigs aside, what is ahead for you over the next 12 months or so? Might we see more from Diamond Rugs?
J: I don’t think Diamond Rugs will be seen again for quite a while. Deer Tick has been in the studio a couple times. We’re slowly chipping away at something that will probably see the light of day in 2016.
Deer Tick earned a lot of acclaim for its gigs as Deervana. Is there any chance of more tribute shows in the future?
J: I don’t want to say “no” and that’s it, that’s the final answer, but it’s a “no” for now.
Finally, John, any last words for the kids?
J: I miss being on stage and I’m looking forward to singing for you. In the meantime, look for me running around, questing my ass off on the Elder Scrolls Online.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
