Behind the Music of It Hurts: An Interview with Culture Wars

Based in Austin, Texas, Culture Wars is an alt-rock band reviving an era with their blend of lyrical depth and catchy hooks. Comprised of lead vocalist Alex Dugan, guitarists Caleb Contreras and Josh Stirm, bassist Dillon Randolph, and drummer David Grayson, the group is set to release their debut album, featuring their latest single, “It Hurts.”

“It Hurts” combines jangly guitars and a driving bass line—a genre all its own—providing the perfect backdrop for vintage 1990s alt-rock vocals. It’s the kind of sound destined to become an instant radio anthem, leaving a lasting mark on the music landscape. Dugan’s lyrics vividly depict a drunken woman at the Beverly Hills Hotel, mixing humor and heartbreak in a very human narrative that, along with their distinct and catchy sound, harkens back to the radical wildfire hits of yore in a completely organic way.

Their earlier hits, “Heaven” and “Wasting My Time,” have garnered millions of streams, marking a thrilling new chapter for the band. Recorded at iconic studios like Sunset Sound and Sonic Ranch, their music reflects a battle of passions, with each track showcasing their ambition and authenticity.

As they gear up for their 2024 Australia tour supporting Amy Shark, Culture Wars is eager to connect with audiences and share their unique stories. We caught up with the band to delve into their creative process, musical influences, and what fans can expect from their exciting journey ahead.

Let’s get to know the band a little bit better first. What’s your origin story like? How’d you get together?

We all met in Austin. I was introduced to David 11 years ago, and we did that “jam in the room” thing with different musicians and eventually had early incarnations of the band at times to play shows. I met Dillon through a childhood friend, and then Caleb was the intern at the studio where we were making demos. He then went on to be in the band and be our producer. Josh was an intern at the studio we were recording at in El Paso, and we all made friends pretty quickly and then asked him to join us. 

Your new song, “It Hurts,” explores the contrast between outward appearances and inner pain, particularly with lines like "even though you’re smiling it hurts." What inspired you to delve into this theme, and how do you hope people will relate to it?

I’m a quiet judger of people. I wrote it about a woman sitting at the bar of the Beverly Hills Hotel looking for husband #2. 

The phrase "it hurts too good to swallow" clearly hints at a complex relationship with pain. How do you interpret this duality, and what message do you want to convey about experiencing and processing emotional hurt?

I’m not really sure. I wrote it as a stream of consciousness, like most things I do. It means something different for everyone, and I don’t like to take that away with my own interpretation. 

"It Hurts" has a distinctly nostalgic vibe, with jangly guitars and a driving bass line. Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind the track's sound and how it came together in the studio?

Originally wrote the chorus on a guitar and then finished the verses with Caleb afterward. The track itself is representative of the band - five guys playing their own instruments and owning their piece. It’s organic - the band all together live. 

What role does vulnerability play in your music, especially in songs that tackle themes of hurt and emotional struggle?

Writing and putting out music in general requires vulnerability, but I don’t choose to make a concerted effort towards it. I’m just myself, and let the lyrics happen. 

You’ve worked in various iconic studios during the recording of the album. Were there any particular moments during those sessions that felt especially impactful or inspiring?

We played beer pong in the main tracking room of United Recording, where Frank Sinatra recorded. 

Looking ahead, how do you see your music evolving concerning themes of emotional complexity and human connection?

I honestly just don’t think that way about the lyrics. I just try to be myself and let it happen. I will continue to do that in the future, and just try to remain true to myself and the band.

What hurts the most right now?

My back in this economy Qantas seat. Bring on the jet. 

What’s up next for Culture Wars?

Finishing up touring with LANY and Amy Shark here in Australia and then onto the new album in 2025 and lots more touring!

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