Interview: Rhett Miller of the Old 97's

We first fell in love with the Old 97’s as soon as we heard “Time Bomb” on college radio more than 10 years ago. Half a dozen albums later, the band is celebrating and touring on the heels of their latest CD, Hit by a Train: The Best of the Old 97’s. Houstonist caught up with Rhett Miller, lead singer, songwriter and sometimes solo artist (Rhett released his second solo album The Believer last year) fresh off a trip with his family and gearing up for the road again. The Old 97's make a stop in Houston tonight at the Meridian.

Last year, the band released a “Best of” collection. Does that mean the end of the Old 97’s?

Hay-ell no.

You’re still juggling your solo career and that of leader of the Old 97’s. Where do those two paths take you in the future?

I hope to alternate between the two for the rest of my life.

You’re well known for your songwriting. Do you have any favorite lyrics that you’ve written?

The first line of “Barrier Reef” is one of my faves. (The Empty Bottle was half empty/tide was low, and I was thirsty.)

Over the years, Old 97’s albums have been stylistically different (some more country, some more pop/rock, some in between). Explain how you decide on an album’s musical style. Is it a deliberate direction, or is it going with the flow?

I always have an idea of how a record will sound, and invariably it sounds nothing like I had imagined.

What are your thoughts on the current music industry? How have the Old 97’s adapted to the narrowing style of radio playlists?

We have never been dependent on radio airplay. Some stations have given us love, but radio has never fueled our success. I love satellite and hope that it grows and takes over.

How have you seen the Texas music scene change over the past decade? Are there any new artists that you find especially appealing right now, in Texas or nationally?

Texas has always grown great musicians, but, in Dallas at least, the backbiting sometimes gets the better of the scene. Every band with real aspirations needs to get on the road and tour the country as much as possible.

Now that the Old 97’s have been around for over a decade, do you have a favorite venue to play in Texas?

Stubb's backyard in Austin.

If you could be any Texas landmark, what would it be?

Sam Houston's statue. No, the rotunda at the capitol. No, Reunion Tower. Oh, man, I don't know.

Old 97's
Tonight, 8 p.m.
Meridian
1503 Chartres
Tickets: $20