syst3mic3rr0r

The genre-bendiness of hip hop and alt-rock is bringing two of my favorite genres together. This project could not have been spearheaded by any two people in the game who have my utmost respect as musican's, artists and veterans in their respective genres and the industry in general.

Being someone who acknowledges it's kind of awkward to be "that person" that annoys their friends by bouncing around from playing post-punk, post-punk revival music to hip hop. Paul, I know for a fact you've always loved hip hop—you made me feel like I wasn't the only one out there who loved both genres—you're also my hero. So, thank you for being a source of inspiration for me the past 10+ years.

My first question for Paul: Your lyrics, circa your solo work and with Interpol are of the greatest, most meaningful, and sometimes vaguely "tongue in cheek" lyrics I have ever read. Being also so witty, it seems like you will be a natural crossing over into the hip hop realm with RZA, no less!

So, how has your previous creative process changed when blending genres with RZA?
What has this experience been like creatively compared to your process with Interpol as well as your solo work? Have you learned anything new from this experience as an artist?

RZA, much love to you! (Wu Tang Forever) Your verses on Giant were so fierce and powerful—I started choreographing to Giant, the song inspired me deeply, message wise, and mostly what drove it home was both your passion as well as Paul's. I felt the force and speed behind your lyrics, I could tell you meant what you were saying and that authenticity is what I love most about an artist. What was the inspiration behind Giant?

How has it been for you creatively adding a more organic "rock and roll" feel to the music? Has it altered your usual creative process in any new ways? What new things have you learned from this collaboration? Do you have any advice for people who aspire to be a hip hop artist and/or ghost write?

...Ok now for silly questions:

• Do you guys ever argue with each other about the creative direction of the music? How do you settle it?

• Paul, are you going to rap a few verses and do a little hip-hop dancing?

• Why no ATL on the tour list? I'm super bummed about that.

• What are your personal favorite tracks on the album, in terms of meaningfulness?

I know this was long, but thank you for reading. I am so excited that Banks + Steelz is happening and I can't wait to hear the album in full!

Rza craziest thing ever seen, ftw! Thats hilarious!

Thank you! I agree, your vocal style is a perfect fit for both genres! Rock on, I cant wait to hear more, too.