My Bloody Valentine, a name synonymous with innovative soundscapes and a significant influence on the "shoegaze" genre, holds a unique place in music history. In a 2012 interview with Drowned in Sound (DiS), bassist Debbie Googe offered insights into the band's past, present, and future, shedding light on their creative process, internal dynamics, and enduring legacy.
Before diving into My Bloody Valentine's plans, Googe discussed her summer stint with Primal Scream, a band she connected with through Creation Records.
While enjoying her time with Primal Scream, Googe affirmed that My Bloody Valentine remained her priority, with upcoming shows already in the works. She described the new Primal Scream material as a "mixed bag," reminiscent of their Screamadelica era, highlighting the band's consistent ability to defy expectations.
Googe reflected on the band's influence and how it felt to be revered by so many artists. She humbly attributed most of the credit to Kevin Shields' singular vision and meticulous approach.
Googe candidly discussed the band's extended period of inactivity and the circumstances that led to her departure in 1997.
The overwhelming response to their comeback shows was surreal, especially considering their limited press coverage during their initial run. Googe noted the irony of becoming "seminal for doing nothing," suggesting their lasting influence stemmed from bands citing them as an inspiration.
When asked about the "shoegaze" tag, Googe quipped, "We were staring at our pedals, not at our shoes!".
The interview touched on the long-awaited follow-up to Loveless. While details remained scarce, Googe confirmed the album was nearing completion.
She couldn't provide a concrete release date or detailed description of the album's sound, emphasizing Shields' control over the final product. And in 2013, the album mbv was finally released, showing that My Bloody Valentine were anything but done.
Looking back on her career, Googe pinpointed the You Made Me Realise EP as a turning point for My Bloody Valentine.
She also highlighted The Ramones as a major influence, praising their impact on her perception of pop music.
Debbie Googe's insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the world of My Bloody Valentine. Her reflections on the band's history, creative process, and enduring influence offer valuable context for understanding their unique contribution to music.
This interview captures a pivotal moment, hinting at the band's resurgence and solidifying their status as one of the most influential guitar bands of all time. And though they once may have been "doing nothing", My Bloody Valentine certainly left an indelible mark on the industry.
