Star Anna and The Laughing Dogs have had quite an eventful year thus far. Between the release of their third album, Alone In This Together, and playing at PJ20 (Pearl Jam’s 20^th anniversary concert in East Troy, WI), Star Anna has building momentum towards breaking into the psyche of the music listening public. Having the blessing of Pearl Jam lead guitarist Mike McCready has given the band a wider network of fans to build upon and as each day passes, continues to pick up more supporters. Bestnewbands.com caught up with Star Anna to chat about the record, why she went with her current label and her feelings on PJ20.

Daniel Kohn: What was the recording process like for the record?

Star Anna: It was definitely easier than the first two, but it’s easy to feel that the more you record and write new material because you learn so much about recording and how to record.

 

DK: What made you decide to go with Local 638 Records as opposed to any other label?

SA: Well it’s Rachel Flotard’s label and she’s been great for us. Also, we’re having Monkeywrench (Pearl Jam’s label) offer to distribute it. That was a no-brainer, they are awesome and anyway they want to be involved with us is absolutely okay. As far as Rachel’s label, she’s managing us and it seemed like the right thing to do.

 

DK: Did Mike McCready (of Pearl Jam) have any role on the album?

SA: He played on a few tracks and was also there for part of the recording sessions. He’s such a nice guy and has ideas about things, would bring them up, but also said that we shouldn’t feel obligated to use them and he didn’t want to step on our toes. We let him know that any input he has is always welcome and it was great having someone who’s so supportive of us on the record.

 

DK: Were you guys excited to play the early slot at PJ20?

SA: Absolutely. It’s awesome to be here and though it was short today because of the rain, it was so much to get up there in front of such a great audience, and large audience to be there that early. We focused a lot on the new stuff since we have the CD here, which we were selling from the stage.

 

DK: The band has such a great opportunity to win over a lot of new fans at this festival. What does it mean to you to play at such a special gig?

SA: It’s surreal. I can’t even comprehend it that I’m so excited. There are no expectations from us, but being able to play here is such an honor. I can’t think about outcome, but only to play like we are capable of.

 

DK: Who are you excited to watch after you guys play?

SA: Pearl Jam! I’ve never seen them live before. It’s terrible that I haven’t seen them before but I’m really excited to be here and see them at this place and this setting.

 

For more info on Star Anna click here for her website. She will be touring throughout September and October, and info for how to buy the album is listed on the website as well.