Enter Shikari’s DIY Revolution: An Archival Interview with Rou Reynolds
As we dig through the AltSounds archives, we’re uncovering interview gems that reflect on music history. This Enter Shikari interview with Rou Reynolds of Enter Shikari, originally conducted by MUG5, dates back to the release of their groundbreaking album Common Dreads in 2009. It’s a snapshot of a band on the cusp of a new chapter, embracing their DIY roots while stepping onto a larger stage. Much has changed since then, but these words capture a pivotal moment in Enter Shikari’s journey and are worthy of resurfacing.
Original Interview Date: September 17, 2009
MAIN IMAGE: Rou Reynolds of Enter Shikari performing live at Rock am Ring 2018. Image source, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 by Andreas Lawen, Fotandi.
Looking Back: The DIY Path to Take To The Skies
In the mid-2000s, Enter Shikari wasn’t just another rock band; they were a revolution in the making. Released under their own label, Ambush Reality, their debut album, Take To The Skies, shot up the U.K. charts, making an indelible mark on the music scene. By the time their single “Sorry You’re Not A Winner” gained traction, Enter Shikari had established a dedicated following, setting the stage for their breakthrough.
Their journey was marked by a fiercely independent approach. The band handled everything in-house, from booking shows to designing merch. This independence, both a necessity and a philosophy, grounded their work in a spirit of creative freedom that continues to resonate in their music.
MUG5: Your first album Take To The Skies debuted at #4 on the U.K. chart, becoming one of the most successful self-released rock albums ever. Why did you decide to release it on your own, and what did you learn from that experience?
Rou Reynolds: At the time, we didn’t really feel like we had a choice—we’d been touring for around two years without any press or label interest. We handled everything ourselves, from booking shows to designing our merch. When “Sorry You’re Not A Winner” blew up, we realized we could do it alone. I’m grateful it happened that way; it’s hard to imagine being tied to a major label in this era of uncertainty.
Taking on the U.S.: Enter Shikari’s American Adventure
With their U.K. success well-established, Enter Shikari set their sights on the United States—a market known for its sheer size and competitive nature. Their sophomore album, Common Dreads, was their chance to make an impact overseas. But unlike in the U.K., where they could operate independently, they knew that breaking into the U.S. would require a new approach. Partnering with DGC/Interscope, they aimed to expand their reach while still holding true to their core principles.
This strategic decision marked a pivotal moment for the band. The scale and logistics of touring in the U.S. were vastly different, necessitating a shift in their DIY tactics. While some fans worried about a possible dilution of their unique sound, the band viewed this partnership as a means to amplify their message without compromising their integrity.
MUG5: Your new album COMMON DREADS is set for a U.S. release in 2010. What led you to partner with DGC/Interscope for this release?
Rou Reynolds: The U.S. is massive compared to the U.K., so we knew we’d need some help. Partnering with a major label like DGC/Interscope made sense to reach a wider audience. We’ve done U.S. tours solo, playing small venues, and it’s been great—very raw and organic. But to go bigger, we needed to bring in some reinforcements.
Recording Common Dreads: Isle of Wight Isolation and Experimentation
For Common Dreads, Enter Shikari teamed up with producer Andy Gray, known for his work with diverse artists such as U2, Tori Amos, and Gary Numan. Setting up a studio on the isolated Isle of Wight allowed them to channel their energy into creating an album that was both experimental and reflective of their evolving sound. From burning pianos to recording in freezing temperatures, the creative process was as intense as it was unconventional.
This setting allowed Enter Shikari to take their time and explore new sonic territory. Andy Gray’s willingness to experiment brought out the best in the band, and Common Dreads was a testament to their ability to push the boundaries of hardcore and electronic music.
MUG5: What was it like recording COMMON DREADS with Andy Gray on the Isle of Wight? How did this affect the album?
Rou Reynolds: It was the complete opposite of Take To The Skies. This time, we could take our time, which allowed us to experiment. Andy Gray was incredible; he encouraged us to try wild things—from burning pianos on “Havoc B” to recording outdoors in the snow. We captured the raw energy of Enter Shikari, and I think that comes through on the album.
Enter Shikari’s Sound: Blending Hardcore and Electronic
Enter Shikari’s unique sound—an electrifying fusion of hardcore and electronic—set them apart from other bands. Their genre-blending style not only attracted a diverse fanbase but also defined a new sub-genre in rock. Rou’s perspective on their sound is refreshingly simple: it’s about making music that resonates, transcending the limitations of labels and classifications.
This commitment to genre fluidity is one of the band’s hallmarks. By refusing to be pigeonholed, Enter Shikari opened the door to new possibilities, continually evolving their music and challenging listeners’ expectations.
MUG5: How would you describe Enter Shikari’s music to someone who has never heard it before?
Rou Reynolds: It’s just good music. There’s good music and bad music—that’s the only distinction that matters to me.
Highlights: “Fanfare For The Conscious Man” and “Havoc B”
Common Dreads features several standout tracks, but “Fanfare For The Conscious Man” and “Havoc B” capture the intensity and emotional charge that Enter Shikari fans have come to love. “Fanfare For The Conscious Man” was a last-minute addition, a response to the political climate and foreign policies that affected both the U.K. and the U.S. Meanwhile, “Havoc B” is a fan favorite, delivering raw energy and powerful basslines that bring the crowd together in unified chants.
These songs reflect the band’s ability to merge personal experiences with broader social issues, creating music that resonates on multiple levels. Whether addressing political frustrations or inspiring a sense of unity, Enter Shikari’s music is a call to action.
MUG5: What song resonates the most with you on this album, and which one do you enjoy performing live?
Rou Reynolds: “Fanfare For The Conscious Man” is powerful; it was a final outpouring of frustration with our countries’ foreign policies. Performing “Havoc B” live is exhilarating—the sub bass shakes the ground, and when the crowd chants along, it feels electric.
Growing Up in St. Albans: Roots and Influence
Enter Shikari’s home of St. Albans is known for its historic Roman sites, but for Rou Reynolds, it’s the city’s local music scene that left a lasting impact. Despite facing pushback from authorities, the band remained resilient. These experiences fostered a sense of community that not only shaped their music but also fueled their passion for creating a lasting impact.
Their struggle to keep live music alive in St. Albans reflects the tenacity and passion that define Enter Shikari’s ethos. The fight to protect their local scene helped them build a strong foundation that carried them forward, both musically and personally.
MUG5: How did growing up in St. Albans shape you as a musician?
Rou Reynolds: St. Albans has always had a resilient music scene. We faced opposition from local authorities, who tried to shut down gigs. Ironically, it strengthened our sense of community and fueled our passion to keep the scene alive.
Aerial view of St Albans market from the Clock Tower. Image source, licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 by Ruth Hartnup.
Writing “Juggernauts”: A Victory for Community
“Juggernauts” was inspired by the band’s campaign to stop a superstore giant from building in their hometown. The song celebrates a sense of community and belonging, themes that are central to Enter Shikari’s message. The lyrics serve as a reminder that despite the pressures of economic and social systems, communities have the power to come together and make change.
This track is a testament to the band’s belief in grassroots activism and the strength that comes from collective action. Through “Juggernauts,” they pay homage to the power of people standing together for a common cause.
MUG5: What was the inspiration behind the song “Juggernauts?”
Rou Reynolds: We campaigned to stop a local superstore giant here in the U.K. from building a store right in the center of our town. It was just a nice quaint victory that was really inspiring to see everyone getting involved. The song itself is about how important it is to feel involved and to have a sense of belonging to your community, and how our current economic and social system actively discourages this.
Final Reflections: Wit and Wisdom
From their love of Stonehenge to their thoughts on the infamous movie Spinal Tap, Enter Shikari’s outlook is as unique as their music. Their unapologetically British sense of humor shines through in their interviews, and Rou’s responses remind us that while the band may address serious issues, they never take themselves too seriously.
Whether it’s sharing guilty pleasures or talking about their favorite collaborators, these reflections add depth to Enter Shikari’s story, showing that behind the music lies a group of passionate individuals with a grounded sense of humor and a deep love for what they do.
MUG5: Any guilty pleasures?
Rou Reynolds: Lady Gaga.
MUG5: If you could collaborate with any artist outside your genre, who would it be?
Rou Reynolds: Lowkey. His political hip-hop is such a refreshing contrast to mainstream hip-hop, which often glorifies violence and greed.
In the years since this interview, Enter Shikari has continued to evolve, remaining fiercely independent and unafraid to experiment. They’ve built a dedicated fanbase across the globe, while their message of community and change has only grown stronger. As they continue to push boundaries, they stay rooted in the values that started it all.
