Interviews

Rock 'n' Read: Hutch Harris of The Thermals

Hutch Harris of The Thermals
Hutch Harris, pondering which book to read next. Photo: Jaclyn Campanaro

“I like writing that is dark, usually with a cynical attitude. I think my lyrics reflect that.”

Hutch Harris is the lead guitarist and vocalist of Portland, Oregon–based band The Thermals. Many songwriters aim to tell a story with each song, but few are as adept as Harris in doing so. His songs paint vivid pictures and pose challenging questions, not unlike our favorite books and prose. Aside from being such a skilled wordsmith, Harris has called at least two majorly bookish cities home (New York and Portland). He is just the guy you want to turn to for a book recommendation! Don't get psyched on no culture icons, and rock 'n' read forever! 

What role did libraries play in your youth?

Vonnegut Galapagos

I was born in New York City. My family lived there until I was eight. My parents took me to The New York Public Library all the time. Reading was (and still is) very important to my parents, and they taught me to read at an early age.

What was your favorite book growing up? How do you feel about this book today?

My favorite books growing up were The Chronicles of Narnia. I still love them, from what I remember. I was totally immersed in that world when I read those books. I couldn't watch the movies; I had too strong of a connection to the books.

Has any one book in particular had a lasting effect on you?

I loved Kurt Vonnegut's Galapagos. It says a lot of interesting things about evolution and the human brain. It definitely had a big impact on my songwriting. 

Jimmie Walker Dyn-O-Mite

What is a classic that you've never gotten around to reading but would like to one day?

Anything by Hemingway, who has been on my list for a long time. I've just never gotten around to reading any of his books.

What genre do you prefer?

I like biographies, and some older science fiction. My favorite books I've read in the past few years have all been non-fiction.

What are you currently reading? If nothing at the moment, what was the last book you read?

I'm currently reading Dyn-o-mite, comedian Jimmie Walker's autobiography. I really enjoy reading stories about people who have succeeded in entertainment. They're usually very inspiring to me. 

So You've Been Publicly Shamed

Are you looking forward to any books to be released soon?

I'm looking forward to reading Jon Ronson's latest, So You've Been Publicly Shamed. I've read and loved every other book he's written.

While on tour, are you able to get much reading done? 

I have to admit that I read a lot less on tour now that I have a smart phone. This is sad but I'm sure common. I used to read a lot more on long flights and drives.

“I really enjoy reading stories about people who have succeeded in entertainment. They're usually very inspiring to me.”

The Dirt

Do you do any other writing aside from songwriting? 

Occasionally I will write essays, usually on music, for websites. I have always written all the press material for every record I've done. Lately I've been writing jokes.

Have any specific authors, books, and/or poems influenced your songwriting in any way?

Kurt Vonnegut, Hunter S. Thompson, Sara Teasdale, Graham Greene have all influenced my songwriting. I like writing that is dark, usually with a cynical attitude. I think my lyrics reflect that.

Do you have any favorite memoirs by musicians?

Hard rock musicians write the best memoirs. They have the best stories! I really like The Dirt by Mötley Crüe and also Slash's autobiography. One of my favorite memoirs is Richard Pryor's Pryor Convictions.

Pryor Convictions

Have any liner notes stayed with you over the years?

The liner notes from Nirvana's Incesticide are very memorable. It's a meandering two-page rant from Kurt Cobain. All of our records come with the lyrics. It's very important to me that they do.

Do you prefer physical books, e-books, or no strong opinion either way?

I prefer physical books. I don't like e-books at all. I stare at screens enough already.

Do you have a library card? If so, which library system are you a member of?

Yes, I have a Portland [Multnomah County] Public Library card. Portland libraries are great!

Thanks, Hutch! Perhaps we will read your memoir one day!
Check out just how cynical The Thermals can be! These albums are currently available at NYPL:

Now We Can See
Now We Can See
Personal Life
Personal Life
Desperate Ground
Desperate Ground