Interview: The Pineapple Thief's Bruce Soord Dives Into New Album

After nearly three decades at the forefront of progressive rock, Bruce Soord and The Pineapple Thief are poised to deliver another compelling chapter in their extensive discography. Their 16th studio album, titled 'Far and Wide,' was released on October 9, 2023, and marks a deliberate return to a more organic and performance-driven sound.

In a recent conversation with Loudwire Nights, Soord reflected on the creative process behind the new record, emphasizing the band’s commitment to bridging the gap between studio production and live performance. This approach stems from a desire to maintain authenticity and avoid relying on complex studio enhancements that cannot be replicated on stage.

The guiding principle for 'Far and Wide' was to craft music that The Pineapple Thief could confidently perform live without compromising the essence of the recordings. Soord cited his admiration for iconic bands like Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd, whose music thrived on straightforward instrumentation—guitar, vocals, drums, and keys—without excessive layering or effects.

This philosophy encouraged the band to strip back their arrangements, focusing on the raw energy and spontaneity that characterize live shows. The goal was to capture the camaraderie and enthusiasm reminiscent of early band experiences, where musicians connect in a shared space and feed off each other's dynamism.

The result is an album that not only complements The Pineapple Thief’s rich catalog but also reinvigorates their sound with a palpable sense of immediacy and vibrancy. The band’s decision to reconnect with the fundamentals of rock music production demonstrates their ongoing refusal to settle into complacency despite their long-standing career.

Soord’s reflections also highlight the importance of preserving the essence of a band’s identity over time. By revisiting the core elements of performance-driven music-making, The Pineapple Thief reasserts their commitment to authenticity in an era where studio technology often blurs the line between recorded and live experiences.

Listeners eager to explore the new album can hear the full interview with Bruce Soord on Loudwire Nights, which aired shortly before the release of 'Far and Wide.' The show offers further insights into the band’s evolution and creative mindset as they celebrate this significant milestone.

While details on specific tracks or lyrical themes of 'Far and Wide' remain limited, the overarching narrative is clear: The Pineapple Thief aims to deliver a record that embodies the spirit of live rock music, ensuring each song resonates both on the album and in concert settings.

As they continue to build on a body of work spanning nearly 30 years, The Pineapple Thief’s latest effort underscores the enduring value of musical honesty and connection. 'Far and Wide' stands as a testament to their ability to evolve while honoring the timeless qualities that first inspired their journey.