In July, Bob Nanna, (Braid, Hey Mercedes, Lifted Bells) released a solo album called Celebration States. We recently caught up with Bob and discussed the record’s concept, which details a significant event in his personal life. We also talked about the album’s unique recording process, as it was completed in a single day. In addition, we conversed about the decision to make an all-acoustic record, his newfound partnership with New Granada Records, future plans and more.

Bill – You recorded Celebration States in just one day. Why did you decide to do that and how would you describe the recording experience?

Bob – I wanted to find something productive to do on what would have been my wedding anniversary. So, around six weeks prior, I decided to complete all of the songs that I’d been messing around with. It gave me a much-needed deadline. I recorded with Matt Jordan, someone I knew and was comfortable working with. I knew if I came in well-rehearsed, we’d be able to knock most of it out on that one day.

Bill – That seems like a good approach with recording so soon after the songs were finished. You’ve said that you waited until you had resolution to finish Celebration States. With that in mind, how would you describe the writing process for this record?

Bob – When it became clear my marriage was ending, I did a lot of writing in terms of words. Not lyrics necessarily, but a deluge of words. It definitely helped me organize my thoughts and calm me. Despite everyone telling me to do a record at that time, it was not what I needed to do to soothe my issues. It took at least eight months for me to be in a better headspace to even consider making an album about this. And when I realized that Matt had September 7th open in his calendar and I had emotionally moved on to a sufficient degree, I knew it was time.

Bill – I can imagine it would take at least that long before you were ready. With this being an acoustic album, the vocals and lyrics are of course very prominent. Tell me about why you wanted to go for this kind of style.

Bob – I watched that Bob Dylan documentary, Rolling Thunder Revue, and it just hit me – all of his songs, musically are very simple. It’s the lyricism that packs the real punch. So, I thought I have all of these words, I shouldn’t worry too much about making the accompaniment difficult or challenging. It just needed it to be a vehicle for the words. That’s how that decision was made.

Bill – That makes a lot of sense. When you go back and listen to Celebration States now, what aspects of the recording are you most pleased with?

Bob – In general, I am just happy that Matt is such a genius behind the boards. And we’ve worked together before so he’s aware of my eccentricities in the studio or odd production ideas. I’m very pleased that he made it sound so good.

Bill – That sounds great and I’m sure it’s good to have that kind of familiarity. Is there a song in particular that you’re most proud of in terms of how it turned out?

Bob – I really do love the song “Don’t Come Home” because it’s hopeful and kind of sad at the same time, and I was able to show off some new jazz chords I learned in a recent class. I took an intro to jazz guitar class a few years ago. Plus, a motorcycle zoomed by at the perfect time to be audible in the song, so we kept it in.

Bill – That’s really cool and you can definitely hear the motorcycle at the start of the guitar solo. I had no idea what it was until you said that. On a different note, what was the inspiration for the album’s title?

Bob – I’ve had the title in my head for a long, long time. I used it for the album to help denote the different stages or states of dealing with a major breakup.

Bill – Got it. This is the first full-length that you’ve done under your own name. What made you decide to do that for this album?

Bob – Since it is truly just me that is heard on it, I thought it would be the right move. Plus, given the state of technology, I was thinking having an album under my name would be better if that is the name I am touring under. Many people won’t realize I played under The City On Film moniker for a while. It’s all so confusing. I just want to make it easier for everyone, myself included. If my next album is a full band affair, I haven’t decided yet what name I would use.

Bill – What led to you partnering with New Granada for the release of this album?

Bob – I spoke to a decent number of labels and they were the most receptive and excited about the project. I love them to death and have known them for almost 25 years now, so I’m glad they were pumped to take it on and I’m glad I made that choice.

Bill – With live shows not being possible for at least the remainder of the year, what sort of things do you have planned to promote the record?

Bob – Well, I did a series of “how to” videos on Instagram where I show you how to play each of the songs. I thought that would be an interesting twist on the livestream/promo thing. Honestly, I don’t know. I don’t want to get too burned out on doing livestreams. I’d love to actually do a tour to promote it. Hopefully next year. I had a South American tour get cancelled this year, so that should be on deck for 2021.

Bill – Have you thought at all about writing any additional solo material or what do you think your next project will be?

Bob – I have two top secret projects in the works. One is done and in someone else’s hands. The other, I’m just beginning. Solo, I am messing around with some more electronic stuff, so I’m going to try to have a few more songs out by the end of the year.

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