Looms is the brainchild of Brooklyn-based musician and sound engineer Sharif Mekawy. Sharif plays in a multitude of Brooklyn bands but also runs sound at some of New York’s top music venues today. Between playing SXSW festival and releasing his new single “Eclipse” (featuring Nels Cline of Wilco!!) Sharif took the time to answer some of our questions about his latest release and favorite types of sea creatures.
So, first and most importantly, how did you get Nels Cline to play guitar on your song??
I’ve known him for a while. I was in the studio trying to record a guitar part in his style, but couldn’t hack it because I’m just not that good. I asked if he would be willing to record, and he said sure!
What inspired you to write “Eclipse”?
I came home from a summer tour to a breakup and spent the next month writing on my roof. One day, there was an eclipse and I forced myself to stay on the roof till I finished the song.
Where did you record? Did you work with a producer?
In New Jersey with my friend/fellow engineer Ryan Ball (Gearbox Recording Studio). We’ve co-mixed and self-produced every Looms release to date.
What’s the songwriting & recording process usually like for you?
Sometimes I start with lyrics, sometimes its music. Sometimes I mix the two. There’s really no rhyme or reason, whatever provided the inspiration.
Where are you from originally and what made you decide to move to Brooklyn?
I’m from NJ, suburbs of NYC. Where else would I go as a musician? Where did you go?
Totally relate! What other projects are you involved in musically aside from Looms?
Darkwing is my other actively gigging band (such a fun garage rock band.) I’ve also been working on a new band with singer/songwriter Amelia Bushell (Grim Streaker/Belle Mare). We’ll be debuting soon!
Can’t wait to hear that! What’s it like running sound at the music venue National Sawdust?
A dream. I’ve been the sound engineer since we opened almost four years ago and I have never taken it for granted. It is my home.
If you could have any other job in the world unrelated to music, what would it be and why?
EASY. Voice over artist for cartoons.
Nice choice! If you could open for any band (dead or alive) who would it be?
Wilco, my biggest influence
Million dollar question: if your band was a sea creature what would it be and why?
Seahorse, because the men carry the babies.
Check out Looms’ latest single, “Eclipse,” below, catch them at SXSW Festival and in Brooklyn, and make sure to keep an eye out for their latest album release May 3 via Good Eye Records:
March 14: Dirty Fest | Dirty Dog Bar – Austin, TX
March 14: Rock or Die VI | Hard Luck Lounge – Austin, TX
March 17: Queen of the Scene/Left Bank Magazine Unofficial Showcase | Big Easy – Austin, TX
March 28: w/ Color Tongue, Monoculture, Huh | Berlin – NYC