"The music's almost always written with a chorus of people in mind," says Michael Angelakos of the new Passion Pit album, <em>Gossamer</em>.

Text and Interview: Natalie Yeo

Passion Pit rocked Singapore at their one-night only concert at the Esplanade on August 21, 2012. Before they did, front man of the band, Michael Angelakos, shed some light on what Passion Pit will bring to the stage, the new album, insight to life in the band and also bared his heart about the music industry.

Describing Passion Pit to be “energetic and participatory,” Michael tells of having fun live shows, creating a unique experience every time. He confidently mentioned that he has attended many shows but has never quite seen anything like a Passion Pit show. Known for their dance pop tunes, Passion Pit’s music is full of euphoria and excitement and is really a hybrid of all the things Michael likes.

If there’s something Michael revealed at the interview, it would probably be that he does not love live shows or touring.

“When I get on stage and I see everyone reacting to the music, there’s a moment where I completely forget (that he does not love live shows and touring) and I get excited and can’t believe people care. Hopefully people will see that and people will enjoy it. I can’t ask for anything else,” ending on a sentimental note.

On Passion Pit’s new album, Gossamer, Michael tells of a vulnerable record and how he is unable to see how one can “not be vulnerable when you do anything.” He also remarked that “it’s terrifying to put yourself out there.”

Giving some insight into life in the band, Michael smirked, exclaimed and laughed, “It’s pretty boring!” He went on to tell of three phases, namely the recording phase, the tour mode and the “going home” phase.

“At the end of the day, it’s work. I don’t really get to enjoy. It’s a luxury if you get a day off. That would be a joy, but that’s really rare, for most bands. It’s a job and ultimately, you want to make it as fun as possible.”

When asked about his greatest joys and greatest pains about being in the music industry, Michael’s response could either be shocking, or not. His greatest joy is being able to release a record and having a physical copy of it. However, he turned around and stated that there’s a lot about the industry that has ruined music for him.

“I don’t look at music the same way. You have to involve yourself with a lot of other people. You get on the same level as all these artists that you’ve idolized for so long, you learn about them and realize, ‘That person’s kind of an a**hole’ and unearth that they just want to make money off you. The bubble is popped and you realize that it’s not a magical kingdom for fairies and unicorns. It’s a really gross industry. Just like every other industry, it’s about making money. You just have to stay as true to yourself as possible because otherwise, you’ll get really depressed pretty easily. It’s pretty gross, I don’t love it but make it what you can, as best as you can.”

Ultimately, Michael acknowledged that at this point of his career, he wants to ensure that the band has as much fun as they possibly can. For the show they put on last night, it can be said, Passion Pit has done it again.