I first discovered Pearl & The Beard while working at Engine Room Recordings, which shared office space with the group’s original management and label, Family Records. I was amazed how such a barebones, folk-inspired trio – usually performing in the form of an acoustic guitarist, cellist and percussionist that all sang – could make such interesting and spirited music. Around that time, Pearl & The Beard had experienced some viral success on YouTube, thanks to a medley of Will Smith covers that they had posted. Ultimately it helped lead to touring and/or collaborations alongside Ani DiFranco, Ingrid Michaelson, Brandy Carlisle and Iron And Wine.
Fast-forwarding to late 2015, the group has decided to disband eight years after Jeremy Lloyd-Styles and Jocelyn Mackenzie had first met at an open mic. Or six years after the release of their debut full-length album, God Bless Your Weary Soul, Amanda Richardson. Deciding to end on a high note, Pearl & The Band is playing their final show at The Bowery Ballroom on Nov. 19. Songs from their swan song Beast ought to be expected in concert.
In support of the Bowery gig, I had the opportunity to do some Q&A with both Jocelyn and cellist/ukelelist/vocalist Emily Hope Price. Links to both of their post-Pearl projects are included below, and for those looking to experience even more from Jocelyn and Emily, they will both be involved with the inaugural Jim Henson Puppetry Residency at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center on Nov. 18. Also, you can expect to experience some Pearl & The Beard in the forthcoming Michael Showalter-helmed movie My Name Is Doris.
So, why the need to call it quits?
Jocelyn: Mommy and daddy don’t love YOU any less.
How would you like your band to be remembered?
Emily: With the emotion of a thousand fiery suns dipped in chocolate, covered in sprinkles.
Jo: Someone please design a new emoji
Is there a particular band accomplishment you’re most proud of?
E: I loved that our music has such a significant part of Michael Showalter’s film My Name Is Doris, which will be released soon. It’s a beautiful film.
J: Growing my family by getting the opportunity to meet new people all over the world through all of our touring has been a huge blessing. I have such deep love and appreciation for the connections I’ve made with fellow musicians, friends, fans, people who have helped us over the years.
Might there be a posthumous compilation or live album from this last show somewhere down the line?
E: We’re looking into something like that for the last show! Hopefully! Stay tuned!
For someone who hasn’t seen you live before this Bowery Ballroom show, what should they expect?
E: Feelings, feelings and feelings!
J: Probably tears. And a tee-shirt cannon.
What do you plan to do with your newfound free time?
E: What?! Free time? Who has free time?! We’re busy making a bunch of dreams come true over here! [Editor’s Note: Emily’s response included an intended hyperlink to: http://www.facebook.com/EmilyHopePriceMusic.]
J: We’ll sleep when we’re dead. In the meantime, Emily and I have collaborated to contributed music to a new theatre piece All We Have Left, written by Liz Hara, directed by Spencer Lott and developed through the inaugural Jim Henson Puppetry Residency at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre Center. It’s a gorgeous piece. If you’re free on Nov. 18 and in New York you should come see it. [Editor’s Note: Jocelyn’s response included an intended hyperlink to: http://www.facebook.com/JocelynMcknz.]
Is there something you wish more people knew about you personally?
J: I’m really not that into yoga. Or tacos. Sue me.
Finally, any last words for the kids?
E: Treat your body right and be brave! We’re all just gettin’ older!
J: You are the master of your destiny. Fear ain’t shit.
-by Darren Paltrowitz
