Leather talks to Mint Condition
By: yo mama
It only took me 15 seconds to fall in love with Mint Condition. “Pretty Brown Eyes” was part of new jack soul movement that raised and molded me into the R&B/soul fiend that I am today. Even now when I hear those two rapid drum breaks I can’t help but go into “That’s my song!” mode. Seventeen years later, Mint Condition still keeps it fresh, funky and soulful. However, with time comes change, and Mint Condition has successfully adapted to the changing climates. From witnessing the erosion of the music industry first hand, to losing a band member and starting their own label, Mint Condition shows no signs of giving in. Their latest release, e-Life calls attention to the influence that technology has on our lives, but still preserves the old soul that Mint Condition fans are accustomed to. E-Life features appearances from Phonte, Anthony Hamilton, production from Ali Shaheed Muhammad and gives something to the soul music fans old and new.
How did you hook up with Anthony Hamilton and Phonte (from Littler Brother)
We met Anthony a few times on the road as we shared the bill on a couple of gigs and we simply discussed the possibility of one day working together. We’ve always been big fans of Anthony’s because he has such a unique sound; I remember Stokley referring to him as kind of an “old soul!” And, when the song “Baby Boy, Baby Girl” came about Anthony seemed to be a natural fit so, we contacted him and the rest is history. And, Rick met Phonte` on myspace, where they exchanged messages which subsequently led to us working him on the uptempo track “Somethin.” In addition, we hope to continue a working relationship with Anthony and Phonte both on the road and in the studio sometime here in the near future.
Since Keri Lewis (amicably) left the group, how do you think the vibe has changed?
Of course we know when a member leaves a group, some of that creativity, input and energy leaves with them as well. I can honestly say that our experience since Keri’s departure has been neither better or worse; just different. I will say as individuals, since that time I have seen everyone including myself, grow into their responsibilities as members of a group trying to administrate and promote our independent label “Caged Bird Records.”
How has your musical formula evolved?
Our formula has evolved in the sense that we’ve become better song writers by learning how to tap life experiences more when we’re writing. So, over the years we’ve become better at sharing who we really are as opposed to just writing from a more “fantasy” derived viewpoint.
What’s the best thing about being in a band is...
How we’ve been able to manipulate the industry as a whole for so long. I feel by having a shared vision, the band has been able to remain humble during the highs and stick together through the lows.
What’s the worst thing about being in a band is…
One of the worst things about being a band is that having five individuals often means five different viewpoints, opinions and attitudes about anything and everything. This means a lot of times things such as conference calls, recording sessions and rehearsals can go on and on and on and on! Basically, it’s often difficult to come to a decision in a timely fashion!!!
Why do you think bands aren’t prevalent in today’s music?
One reason bands are probably not more prevalent today is that they are cost prohibitive. I can remember several instances with our former record labels where opportunities were passed on because of the high cost of moving around a band. And, one could surmise too that the support of music in schools has gone by the wayside as a result of budget constraints put on our school districts. In short, the very music programs that help spawn individuals to even play in a band are being eliminated.
Describe your live show in one word.
Energetic!
It’s been 3 years since you put out Living the Luxury Brown, how does e-Life differ from your other releases?
e-Life differs in the sense that it is really our first conceptual offering, although many fans of the “Definition of a Band” project would probably disagree!
You were one of the first groups signed to Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis’s label Perspective Records, what was that experience like?
And, I can honestly say that we still to this day draw from that experience especially on the business end of things. I believe Jimmy and Terry’s experience with a band “The Time” gave them more insight as to some of the thoughts and attitudes we had at the time. So, a lot of our earlier success was a direct result of their creative thinking and energy.
Do you still stay in contact with Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis?
Yes, matter of fact we just performed at the “Urban Network” where we did a tribute in part to Jimmy and Terry and we got a chance to speak with Jimmy afterwards. He sounds like he’s in a good place right now, it was good to see him.
What’s next for Mint Condition?
Well, I will say more music for one, we are in constant recording mode so, be looking out for a possible EP, soundtrack offerings, live show downloads and the like.
Check out e-Life out now on Caged Bird Records.
