Interviews: Always showing that he cares: an interview with Brian McTernan

Brian McTernan has long been a pivotal figure within the hardcore and punk scenes, both as a musician and as a producer. In a recent interview with punknews.org, McTernan reflected on his enduring connection to his bands Battery and Be Well, alongside his evolving approach to producing records.

Battery’s music, originally penned with youthful urgency, has taken on new resonance for McTernan as an adult revisiting those songs on stage. He expressed surprise at how relevant the lyrics remain decades later, highlighting tracks that tackle themes beyond typical punk tropes, such as the feeling of disillusionment with conventional adult life. The band has even incorporated songs into live sets that were rarely performed before, underscoring the personal significance those compositions have gained over time.

Contrasting with Battery’s retrospectively joyful energy, Be Well emerges from a much darker, more introspective place. McTernan revealed that Be Well's material was born from a period of personal struggle, serving as a cathartic outlet. Unlike Battery’s collective dynamic, Be Well’s early work was primarily his own creation, initially recorded before the full band came together. The candidness of Be Well’s lyrics and music resonates deeply with listeners, despite the project not achieving mainstream prominence.

McTernan described the experience of performing with Battery as a kind of homecoming, surrounded by longtime friends and collaborators. The camaraderie with fellow band members, some of whom have been mentors to him since his youth, adds an irreplaceable layer to the performances. In contrast, Be Well represents a raw, necessary expression of his personal journey, offering a different kind of fulfillment.

As a producer, McTernan occupies a role akin to a coach, guiding artists through the creative process while amplifying their unique strengths. He prioritizes identifying what sets each band apart and builds recordings around those distinctive qualities. This philosophy has shaped his work with a diverse range of acts, from Thrice to Hot Water Music, helping them craft definitive sounds rather than imposing a generic producer’s template.

Despite broad acclaim, McTernan admits his production work carries significant pressure, as he recognizes the critical impact a record can have on a band’s future. This awareness has led him to be selective about projects, focusing on those where artists are fully invested and prepared. He eschews the use of digital shortcuts or formulaic production techniques, emphasizing authenticity and musicianship to preserve the emotional core and longevity of the music.

The landscape of recording has changed significantly since McTernan’s early days, with faster digital access and home recording altering how bands approach their craft. He noted that some younger artists lack the preparation that was once standard, which has influenced his decision to limit his involvement to projects meeting his standards of readiness and commitment.

McTernan also participates in a close-knit community of producers within the punk and alternative scenes, exchanging ideas and experiences with peers such as Paul Leavitt and Jon Markson. While acknowledging that different producers bring varied methods to the table, he remains steadfast in his belief that tailoring the production process to each band’s identity is paramount.

Looking ahead, McTernan values balance, prioritizing family and personal well-being alongside his career. The intensity he brings to producing is tempered by a need to avoid burnout, ensuring he can continue to deliver meaningful work without sacrificing other aspects of his life.

Overall, McTernan’s reflections reveal a multifaceted artist dedicated to authenticity in both performance and production. His journey underscores the lasting power of punk’s ethos, the importance of artistic integrity, and the evolving role of a producer in shaping music that stands the test of time.