Ep. 244: Eric Cannata discusses Young the Giant's "Mind Over Matter"

Chris DeMakes A Podcast

Chris DeMakes

Music History, Music Commentary, Music, Music Interviews

4.9 • 923 Ratings

🗓️ 10 February 2025

⏱️ 78 minutes

🔗️ Recording | iTunes | RSS

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Summary

In this episode, Eric Cannata of Young the Giant dives into the writing and recording of their 2014 hit single "Mind Over Matter," a pivotal track that showcased the band’s evolving sound and emotional depth. Eric reflects on the surreal experience of achieving success, the collaborative nature of the band's songwriting, and the challenges of creating a sophomore album that balanced innovation with emotional resonance. Produced by the legendary Justin Meldal-Johnsen—known for his work with Beck, Nine Inch Nails, M83, and St. Vincent—the song's intricate arrangements and dynamic shifts highlight the influence of one of music’s most versatile producers. From demoing songs to crafting subtle musical layers, this conversation explores how "Mind Over Matter" became a defining moment for the band while also offering a glimpse into Eric's personal musical journey and creative experimentation. Chris DeMakes A Podcast is brought to you by DistroKid, the ultimate partner for taking your music to the next level. Get 30% off your first YEAR with DistroKid by signing up at http://distrokid.com/vip/demakes For bonus episode of The After Party podcast, an extensive back catalog of past After Party episodes, early ad-free releases of new episodes of Chris DeMakes A Podcast, full video versions of episodes, and MUCH more, head to the Patreon at http://www.ChrisDeMakes.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Transcript

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0:00.0	This episode is brought to you by Distro Kid.
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0:27.2	Sign up for your $1 a month trial at Shopify.com slash setup.
0:41.3	Hey everyone. Today's guest is Eric Kanata, guitarist for the Irvine California rock band, Young the Giant.
0:47.3	Together we break down the writing, recording, and inspiration behind the smash hit single,
0:53.3	Mind Over Matter, taken from their 2014
0:55.5	full-length album of the same name. Mind Over Matter has amassed over 250 million Spotify
1:01.3	plays, with no signs of slowing down. Not bad for the third and final single from the album,
1:07.1	which Eric explained saying, the band were young, making a second record, and didn't want to alienate their fan base, but also didn't want to throw them a huge curveball right out of the gate.
1:17.6	Saving mind over matter for the last single made sense.
1:21.6	Producer Justin Meldell Johnson, also known as JMJ, completely crushes everything about this production.
1:28.5	The layers and sonics are huge.
1:30.7	And a Krista makes a podcast alumni also makes an appearance on the track,
1:34.9	that being none other than Roger Joseph Manning Jr. formerly of Jellyfish,
1:39.1	who played and conducted strings.
1:41.4	So sit back, relax, and put your mind over matter. Hey, hey, have you heard,
1:49.7	Krista makes a podcast? Hey, hey, have you heard? Krista makes a podcast. Hey, hey, have you heard? Krista makes a podcast.
	...

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