Cool In America
Elephant Mojo
Guitar heavy, funky bass laden and socially observant, Elephant Mojo have a strong band sound and identity. The lads have just released the EP Cool In America and I got in touch with them to get comments on the tracks that make up their latest release.
Cool in America
“This song all came about because of the chorus. Paul (bass) had been throwing around some ideas for lyrics when we were jamming one day. I really liked the anthematic nature of it all, so I started coming up with guitar riffs for it. We had the lyrics written before the music, which is very unusual for us. It is not so much a swipe at America, but more a call to Australian’s to be proud of our own identity. We do not need to look to other countries for our ideals, morals, fashion etc. We have so much to be thankful for, and so much to enjoy here. I always love to play this song live and work people into a certain patriotic fervour that is all too scant in today’s society.”
Under Electric Skies
“Written on my acoustic guitar, this song changed guise when brought to the band. Locking in with the bass and drums at jam one day, we really refined the sound. In what was only a few hours we had the song down pat. Later that night, the skies above Brisbane were lit up with the most brilliant array of sheet lightning we had ever seen. With not much cloud cover and certainly no rain, warm waves of electricity kept us enraptured as they danced the sky above us. It was inspiring. This is where the term, “Under Electric Skies” came from.”
Sick and Tired
“Constant, seemingly unrelenting pressure being released is how I see this song. From the opening riff you can feel the emotions boil within. The build up of frustration that comes when investing so much time, energy, love or affection into one person, just to have them throw it all away. The feeling you get when no matter what you seem to do you never get appreciated or acknowledged. This song is about reaching your limit. When you have no more left to give. It is such a universal thing, to feel unappreciated, but some people just have to learn to say enough is enough.”
Ability
“The first of the live tracks on this release is one that has been in our set for quite sometime now. We have always wanted to record “Ability”, but for various reasons have opted to go with other tracks. So when recording live songs for this release we knew this song had to be on there. Visiting various places musically, with a rocking chorus, groove-laden verse and free time jam-out in the middle; this song is always a favourite to play. On any given night you will hear different variations on the underlying structure.”
Close to the Edge
“Originally recorded and released on our debut EP Bring It, “Close to the Edge” was a chance for us to show a different side other than the up-tempo rock we were known for. This was the first song the entire band collaborated on and is one that we have continued to refine. It was important to include this track as it shows the evolution of the song, which is something that we are all immensely proud of.”
Building an Empire
“This is the story of Elephant Mojo, but it can definitely be applied to many things in life! This song is all about building something from the ground up and not letting anything or one stand in your way. It is essential to have belief, passion and drive if you want to achieve your goals. Don’t baulk at the sight of obstacles, as overcoming them is one of the most satisfying aspects of success.”
Star Dust
“This is a perennial favourite of our fans, and of ours. Previously recorded and released on our debut EP, this instalment translates the intensity of the song when played live. Never failing to fire in our set, we know it is a great crowd starter or set closer!”
Thanks guys. Cool In America will be out in August.
Rob Hudson

www.elephantmojo.com