I get most of my inspiration from older records. Most of the records that I listen to were probably made before I was born, and I was born in the mid-'70s. I don't know why, exactly, I'm drawn to those sounds.

I always prefer other people's interpretations over my own, so I'm not very quick to make explicit what exactly a song or record is about.

My favorite recordings are the ones that feel like there were no middlemen in the creation. That's the biggest problem with most films and records being made today - too many people involved. I think it dilutes the artist's intent and inspiration.

I love the sound of Elmore James, the sound early guitarists like him got just by using minimal means.

I definitely don't see myself as much of a singer, because my upbringing is really based around the guitar, learning chord progressions and that sort of thing. So the singing aspect of what I do has been a secondary adventure.

I believe in working with songs that have personal value for me.

Try to take your vision and ego as far away from the song as possible. Give as much respect as you can to the song and the initial inspiration.