Eef Barzelay talks Clem Snide ahead of their March 1 stop at Knuckleheads

Americana act Clem Snide has been going for well over 30 years now, anchored by its driving creative force, Eef Barzelay. Ahead of the vinyl release of the tenth Clem Snide album, Oh Smokey, on May 2 via Foreign Leisure, the act is going out on the run for a set of tour dates, and it hits Knuckleheads on Saturday, March 1. We took to opportunity to speak with Clem Snide’s Eef Barzelay about the long-running band’s history.

The Pitch: Given that so many of the band’s songs have been used in television shows, what’s it like to hear these songs used to soundtrack someone else’s vision?

Eef Barzelay: I’m always very pleased and honored when it happens, but to be honest, I get the most satisfaction from the contribution they make to the Clem Snide preservation society fund.

When you’ve been on this many labels over the years, how have things changed with each one?

Yeah, labels are not what they used to be, I suppose. All of their main functions are easily outsourced now, or there’s some app for it. People gripe about Spotify paying such piddly royalties and such but I’ve found it works out better. With labels the accounting was always a bit sketchy, so God bless the algorithm.

The band has been together since its reformation almost as long as it was before your split. What did you learn from getting back together and how have you applied that going forward?

Not sure how to answer…there is no band, really. It’s just me and has been for over 10 years. I am lonely though. if anyone wants to join up? It would be mostly a labour of love.

Clem Snide has long been referred to as a “cult favorite.” Is there an appeal to that?

That is how I like it. I never set out to be famous. I only ever wanted to be free, and now I am. I occasionally stay in someone’s well-appointed guest cottage, and I’m offered food and drink and drugs, too. It feels like an embarrassment of riches.

Does working with folks who are fans of your work like Scott Avett or Josh Kaufman bring something special to the recording process?

Oh yeah! Their love and enthusiasm are crucial. I don’t really like being in studio, so I need a lot of emotional support.

Clem Snide plays Knuckleheads on Saturday, March 1. Details on that show here.