For the Jarmans, home truly embodies where their hearts reside. Raised in Wakefield, a former mining city known for its sculpture park and outstanding forced rhubarb, the three brothers birthed a unique anti-establishment indie sound from their Yorkshire garage in 2001, and they've never looked back. Although two brothers are now based in the US and one remains anchored in their cherished hometown, The Cribs' dynamic feels as strong as ever. “We still celebrate Bonfire Night together at our parents’ house,” reflects drummer Ross.
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It has been five years since The Cribs last released an album, and after a lengthy period of engaging in the write-record-tour cycle, their momentum had diminished. “The last record came out during the pandemic, so that was more of a distant experience,” points out bassist and vocalist Gary. “Due to that isolated period, we weren’t in a hurry to create a new album and essentially waited until we felt the excitement return, which took a while after that exhausting routine. In the past, we used to follow cycles, but now we prioritize ensuring the records resonate with us and hopefully with our listeners. That’s what led us to being so messed up in the 2000s; it’s challenging to maintain a clear grasp on reality when your life revolves around something so intense and exhilarating.”
Guitarist Ryan adds, “Once you've completed an album, there's not that desperation to jump into another one, you know? For us, it’s more about: if we’re going to make another record, it needs to feel meaningful or significant for us. Otherwise, it wouldn’t make sense. You can’t really fake it – promoting an album you don’t genuinely believe in would be awful. This time around, it genuinely feels like we’ve entered a new phase for the band, which is exciting.”
However, easing back into their instruments after a break brought its own uncertainties. “It’s a strange mix of emotions,” Ryan reflects, “a blend of relief and anxiety, which feel like oil and water. It’s a confusing sensation but ultimately satisfying. The writing stage kicked off quickly, but the recording process extended. We all gathered in New York and wrapped it up in 12 days. We recorded in our usual way, but the production phase dragged on for quite some time. I’m glad it’s all finished and we’re pleased with it, yet it comes with the realization that things are about to kick off again – you become accustomed to time at home and life outside the band, which always carries a bit of apprehensiveness.”
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‘Selling A Vibe’, an album that brings their discography to nearly ten, is set for release on January 9th and has been characterized as a bold homage to family. This album dives into more vulnerable themes compared to their sharp critiques of the prevalent self-absorption in the Noughties, classism, and the challenges of navigating the fickle music industry as a Northern working-class band. ‘Selling A Vibe’ digs deeper, tackling the repressed, uncomfortable emotions built up over the years.
“It’s amusing because we understand each other better than anyone else. I always know what Ry's songs are about even if he doesn’t tell me,” Gary shares. “We strive to ensure the content isn’t too on-the-nose,” adds Ryan. “I often feel that we’re all aware of what the song conveys, but we avoid discussing certain things because they can be revealing or uncomfortable. We were more guarded in the past, and that just doesn’t resonate with us anymore. It makes you feel exposed, and that’s the thrill I get now; I believe you must evolve to be more straightforward about things.”
Reflecting on this newfound transparency, Gary notes, “It’s a different form of art. There’s much to appreciate about realism and diary-style writing, as well as poetic, more abstract pieces. We’ve endeavored to explore both ends, but this time, I aimed for an unvarnished honesty rather than bluntness. Ultimately, that’s why we continue doing this, because of our relationship. It has sustained us personally, but I think our audience might also find interest in our familial connection and relate to those feelings.”
The theme resonates in the album’s finale, “Brothers Won’t Break,” a triumphant tribute to sibling unity that has allowed them to endure when many indie bands have faded away. It serves as recognition of the more turbulent moments they’ve faced over the past two decades, which contributed to their brief hiatus, with Ryan observing that “initially we were brothers who formed a band; now we’ve become a band that happens to be brothers.” The challenge of balancing work and personal life has been tough, with Gary remarking, “The lines have become so blurred.”
Ryan recalls, “It’s more categorized now than it used to be, but you never want the only time spent together to
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For the Jarmans, home is defined by the heart. Having been raised in Wakefield, the former mining city known for its sculpture park and a delightful reputation for exceptional quality.