Interview by Angela Croudace
The Dandy Warhols’ Zia McCabe has spent decades making music, but her latest creative chapter is taking her somewhere unexpected: immersive art. Returning to Australia in November, McCabe says the band’s relationship with Australian audiences remains special, saying “once Aussies decide they love you, they love you forever.” But alongside the Dandy Warhols’ upcoming shows, McCabe will unveil SEE HEAR NOW at Tasmania’s MONA, an interactive musical installation opening to the public on November 26.
The installation grew from McCabe’s desire to transform spaces and create environments that tell stories beyond music for everyone. Visitors will trigger musical elements through movement and interaction, with layered sounds creating an ever-changing composition. A stationary bicycle, for example, can power a fan that activates a wind chime, while a central drone ensures the room is never silent.
For McCabe, the project also represents a shift in how she sees herself. Raised in an artistic family, she once viewed music as separate from the visual art practised by her mother, father and sister. Now, she says she has embraced being an artist beyond simply being a musician. That same spirit of experimentation continues with the Dandy Warhols. McCabe says she is pushing for more ambient, non-lyrical and textural material on their next record, wanting to create something hopeful after the darker atmosphere of their previous work.
And there is still unfinished business: McCabe hopes the band will finally break its long-running “curse” and play Japan, while she plans to take her immersive art projects around Australia and beyond. Check out the full interview for much more.
TOUR DATES
Tues, Nov 24: Odeon Theatre, Hobart with the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra
Fri, Nov 27: Powerstation, Auckland
Sat, Nov 28: Meow Nui, Wellington
Tues, Dec 1: Enmore Theatre, Sydney
Fri, Dec 4: Fortitude Music Hall, Brisbane
Sat, Dec 5: Thebarton Theatre, Adelaide
Tues, Dec 8: Metropolis, Fremantle
Thurs, Dec 10: Palais Theatre, Melbourne
Fri, Dec 11: Meredith Festival, VIC
