Band Profile: Last November
Hard Work Paying Off for Quartet
Atlanta-based Last November, a four piece pop rock outfit, has consistently garnered airplay on radio stations and MTV fan favorites. Its debut effort All the Gory Details (2006 Southern Tracks Records), enamored fans and garnered DVR play over and over on such shows as The Real World and The Hills.
A few years later, with more fans and experience, Last November released its sophomore product Over the Top or Under the Weather (Southern Tracks Records) under the tutelage of multi-platinum producer, Steve Haigler (Oleander, Pixies, As Tall as Lions). What fans and critics alike found was a diverse, melodic, guitar-heavy collection.
“He’s amazing,” Pilgrim said in a February 10, 2009, phone interview, about Haigler. “We always looked up to him. It was a huge learning experience and he showed us how to be better musicians. He pushed us.”
“The Bumper Sticker Song”, a quick, New Found Glory-like piece, also has a distinct video. Pilgrim himself created the video, its scene of characters and storylines.
“I spent two months taking tutorials and learning Final Cut Pro,” Pilgrim said. “We announced that we were looking for fans to be a part of the video, and kids drove Florida, Alabama and Georgia.
Double-Edged Sword
The “cool experience” of running the show is something that can be somewhat of a “double-edged sword” Pilgrim said. His mark on the band’s lyrics, artwork, website and fan relations, can be exhausting.
“It can be a huge burden,” Pilgrim said. “You want to find and surround yourself with people that understand your vision.
“I don’t think people realize how much work it is—it’s 24-7. You sacrifice your normal lives, some friendships. It affects everything. I write back every fan that reaches out to us on MySpace. It’s extremely time consuming, but extremely worth it. “
Humble Beginnings
While its official biography says “Atlanta-based,” Pilgrim emphasized that indeed, he hails from Cleveland, Georgia. Best known as the home of Babyland Hospital where Cabbage Patch Kids are born (as Cabbage Patch creator Xavier Roberts hails from Cleveland). Everyone knows everyone, Pilgrim said.
“It’s like the lyrics in one of Conor Oberst’s song—gossip is gospel in this town,” Pilgrim said.
The small-town upbringing has certainly led to his commitment to his creative spirit.
“If I wasn’t in music I would be in graphic design,” Pilgrim said. “In high school I had a really cool art teacher, I took two art classes a day. I had to learn about Photoshop on my own and did our album art and stuff like our radio one sheet. I enjoy it.”
Lasting Career
Last November is comprised of vocalist and guitarist Luke Pilgrim, vocals and bassist Tyler Ayers, drummer and vocals Taylor Woodruff and guitarist Zach Baxter. This quartet is taking steps towards a lasting career—laying the foundation with proven producers and a remarkable commitment to their fans and creative vision.
Atlanta-based rock band Last November
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Luke Pilgrim of Last November.
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