Nomeansno to be inducted into Western Canadian Music Hall of Fame

Interview by Jason Schreurs

News recently came down through the foghorn that one of Rice and Bread‘s all-time favourite bands, Nomeansno, were going to be inducted into the Western Canadian Music Hall of Fame this coming September. While the news did not surprise us, we do have to admit that even though we live on that very same West Coast of Canada, we had no idea that a Music Hall of Fame existed. Or maybe we did and just forgot? Oops.

Still, anytime that an organization (in this case an annual music industry gathering called BreakOut West, which gives out the Western Canadian Music Awards each year) recognizes and honours Nomeansno, truly one of the world’s best ever forward-thinking punk rock bands, well, we can get right behind that.

Formed in 1979 in Victoria, BC by brothers Rob and John Wright, Nomeansno have released a dozen (fucking great) albums and are widely considered to be one of Canada’s most notable punk exports. Known for their jazzy/prog leanings and dark senses of humour, the band have established a fervent fan base the world over. Recent years have seen the trio, rounded out by guitarist Tom Holliston since the early ’90s, slow down their recorded output and touring schedules. They are currently on what could best be described as a “lengthy hiatus.”

We recently sent some embargoed email questions over to Holliston and here’s what we got back from him about their hall of fame induction and possible future plans.

What was your initial reaction when you heard that BreakOut West announced they would be inducting Nomeansno into the Western Canadian Music Hall of Fame?
Holliston: Surprise. I saw the names Loverboy and Harlequin and thought it was a put on.

Now that the news has settled a bit, how are you feeling about it?
Oh, I hope they give us hotels and there is catering… It is interesting that a band with very little mainstream radio success is noticed in such a way.

It might be strange for you to think of Nomeansno’s profound effect on music in Western Canada, but when you are reminded of it with announcements like this, what are you thoughts?
I really don’t think the band has had a profound effect on music anywhere. Perhaps the effect has been on some of the people who listen to music.

In your opinion, what is the strongest or most complete Nomeansno album, and why?
I like Why Do They Call Me Mr. Happy? and Dance of the Headless Bourgeoise the best… side two of Sex Mad is excellent. The songs run together well and nothing seems a song too many.

What is the biggest misconception or misunderstanding about the band?
Probably all that math rock stuff. I don’t know. Many people seem to think we are mysterious personalities, for some reason. Maybe it’s because we don’t have our photos taken for publicity or something like that. I just got home from work and I need to call the doctor in the morning, so my mind is a little distracted right now.

What’s the greatest compliment you’ve ever been paid?
I am just very happy and thankful to have met some wonderful people through a shared interest or passion, honestly. I appreciate all compliments; it’s always a surprise for me.

Many people have tried to describe Nomeansno’s sound over the years. Have you chosen a description for your sound that fits properly?
Not really, no… loud, maybe. Lots of 7th fret E chords.

You’ve always been supportive of younger bands… which bands or people were instrumental in helping Nomeansno during your formative years?
I won’t say I am supportive of many bands, young or old. So much of it is not for me. I saw Roy Loney play in Vancouver in 1979 and my friend Gary Field and I, very tentatively, approached the guitar player and drummer Danny Mihm (from the actual Flamin’ Groovies!) and… the guitar player’s name was James, but I can’t recall his last name….anyway, they seemed like nice guys and offered us a beer and we chatted for 15 minutes, between sets. They were so nice; regular guys. It was a thrill for Gary and I, and I hope I’ve been as pleasant to people I’ve met at shows since.

You’ve been together as a band for a long time. How has the band changed over the years?
Still putting on one sock at a time, same as always. I don’t think anyone is quite so enamoured of playing Billings lately.

The photo being used for the hall of fame announcement features a curious fellow between you and John that is most definitely not Rob. Please explain.
That man is John Fitzhugh Chedsey. He’s our amanuensis, really. Does the website, sends out press hubris and tells us what we are doing wrong with our computers.

The band has been on hiatus the past couple of years. What has been the reason for the extended break and what have been the challenges of doing the band again?
We thought we’d stop touring until we got some new material together. I don’t know what will happen, if anything. Perhaps there is nothing left in the tank. I hope there is… There is no master game plan.

Now the question that everyone should be wondering about: Will we see Nomeansno back in action for the Hall of Fame induction in September?
You might. [Ed. note - After this article was posted it was later announced that Nomeansno would, in fact, be playing the Awards Ceremony on September 20, 2015.]

Nomeansno will be inducted into the Western Canadian Music Hall of Fame on September 20, 2015.