311 Explores Psychedelics, With Some Help
S.A. Martinez is talking about “experiences in the psychedelic realm and what it means to culture - its deconditioning influences, its process and history.”
“Psychedelics, for example,” he expounds, “they touch you with this other realm, this alien realm, and it seems that it’s rooted in a language, and it’s something we can all decode.”
Um. OK.
At this point, it’s clear that the vocalist/scratcher for the band 311 has a unique take on drugs, society and … well … alternate realities.
He is, in fact, rather obsessed with aliens and things from other realms.
But you don’t need to interview him to figure that out. Just listen to the songs he and the rest of his metaphysical pals penned for their latest album, “Transistor.”
Rounded out by vocalist/guitarist Nick Hexum, guitarist Tim Mahoney, bassist P-Nut and drummer Chad Sexton, 311’s songs range from feel-good reggae lopes to chugging funk rockers with a gritty after-taste.
Songs with titles like “Galaxy,” “Inner Light Spectrum” and “Jupiter” take the listener through a rap, rock and funked-up sci-fi journey fueled alternately by Jules Verne and Mr. Bong Hit.
“You’re a star creator/soul craft generator/movin’ through space and time,” comes the lyrics on “Tune In.”
At first, Martinez’s supernatural point is not so easy to pin down. But once we get to it, he says he considers psychedelic drugs a means to see through the dogmas of society and the doctrines of authority - things that have suppressed women, planetary resources, free thought, etc., etc.
“It’s no wonder these substances are illegal because if people were to use them on a regular basis, we wouldn’t need the products being pushed in our faces, the materialism … and things like that,” he says.
His choice for a head trip? Mushrooms.
Certainly none of this is a new concept for anyone who lived through the ‘60s. But all this from a band that formed in Omaha, Neb.?
And what does this mean for all the young fans snapping up “Transistor”?
“We’ve never promoted (drugs). It isn’t anything we push, but it’s something we bring to the attention of kids who are in their formative stages,” Martinez says. “I’m not a fan of recreational drug use. I think they have to be respected … and once you do that I think you’ll enliven and enrich your life immensely.”
To be sure, the band has stated its dislike for contraband such as cocaine and heroin. Still, that’s not likely to comfort parents packing their teens off to see one of the two 311 concerts coming to our area.
But if that doesn’t, then this might. Drugs aside, 311’s lyrics are surprisingly upbeat and positive for a band that can get down and dirty, sound wise.
For the most part, 311’s “Transistor” talks about unity and peace, about opening your mind, treating each other right and enjoying your place in life.
“Give thanks and praise for good things you found/humble people not ashamed nor proud/and always try to keep your feet on the ground and love yourself” comes the chorus to “Running.”
“We get dissed for being lightweight because we’re happy,” Hexum recently told Rolling Stone. “But I’m talking about things in my lyrics that are important. Maybe if the great thinkers of past times - like Buddha or Christ - were alive today, people would say they were shallow because they were just talking about everyone being cool to each other.”
, DataTimes ILLUSTRATION: Color Photo
MEMO: This sidebar appeared with the story: CONCERT 311 performs with Sugar Ray and Incubus at Beasley Coliseum in Pullman tonight and at the Adams Field House in Missoula, Friday. Both shows start at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $21, available in Pullman through G&B Select-A-Seat outlets or call (800) 325-SEAT. In Missoula, tickets are available through Tic It Ez outlets or call (888) 342-4830.