THE FIXX play The Coach House Jun 26 Photo: Liz Linder
New-Wavers The Fixx are heading to The Coach House in San Juan Capistrano on Jun 26. The band’s blend of keyboard-driven pop music and topical lyrics gave them several hits in the 80s, including the pulsating, “One Thing Leads to Another,” and “Saved by Zero.”
Formed in 1979, The Fixx have continued to make music their way, building a substantial catalogue, and retaining the original lineup along the way: Cy Curnin (lead vocals) Adam Woods (drums), Jamie West-Oram (guitar), Rupert Greenall (keyboards), and Dan K. Brown (bass).
In 2012, The Fixx released “Beautiful Friction”, an anthemic rumination on everything from the current economic crisis to fear for future generations, reflecting the socially driven core that has remained the heart of the band. Since the release, The Fixx have been hitting the road. Concert Guide Live caught up with Cy Curnin to talk touring.
CONCERT GUIDE LIVE: You’ve played some memorable shows in Orange County throughout the years. What’s unique about playing here, for you?
CY CURNIN: I think Orange County has been The Fixx’s number one market since 1982. So, any show we play here has a very powerful connection for us. Having had an album called “Reach The Beach” really sent it over the edge.
CGL: Are there any Orange County or LA spots you like to hit?
CC: I’m always drawn to the beaches at Santa Monica and Venice.
CGL: What can fans expect from The Fixx during this tour? Any deep cuts?
CC: We have such a deep catalog to draw from it can change every night. Adding the newer songs makes the older material come alive and lends a timeless quality to our legacy.
CGL: What are your favorite songs to play live?
CC: That changes. Right now, I’m enjoying “Beautiful Friction” “What God?” and “Precious Stone.”
CGL: You guys are widely known as a “message band,” and early hits like “Stand or Fall” and “One Thing Leads to Another” have messages that are still very relevant today. Does it ever get depressing or depleting to perform these songs and realize these issues still aren’t behind us?
CC: Very much so!!! But we feel a tipping point has been reached and slow change is happening. There are subtle signs everywhere. Money is not the most important currency. It is hope.
CGL: On your most recent album, “Beautiful Friction”, the track “Second Time Around” says “I see things for the first time/the second time around.” At this point in your career, one could say it’s at least the second time around. What feels fresh about touring/recording now?
CC: Witnessing the change in attitude of people makes it all worthwhile. We are never too old to learn and just sitting in the past doesn’t get things done.
CGL: After a lengthy hiatus, “Beautiful Friction” was a real treat for fans. Has the writing process remained basically the same throughout the years? What’s changed or evolved?
CC: The same. We’re just wiser and less neurotic now.
CGL: What are some of your road essentials?
CC: Avocados, a good nap and conversation.
CGL: The original lineup of The Fixx is still virtually intact, which is impressive for any band that has been active for over three decades. What’s your secret?
CC: It’s family! We treat it that way. Patience is love and there is no top dog.
CGL: Any advice for bands just starting out?
CC: Love what you do and deliver dynamically.