Exclusive Look Inside the Studio with Hitmaker Andrew Watt!
Andrew Watt and Pearl Jam’s destinies seem intertwined, as the producer was born the same week the band was meeting for the first time in Seattle. Initially a fan, Watt’s dream of working with his favorite band seemed impossible until he ventured into the rock world with artists like Ozzy Osbourne, Iggy Pop, and the Rolling Stones. His journey reached a pinnacle when he produced Eddie Vedder’s solo album, Earthling, and subsequently got the chance to work on Pearl Jam’s latest album, Dark Matter.
Watt’s intense fandom for Pearl Jam began when he first watched the “Jeremy” music video, leading to a deep admiration for the band’s musical prowess. His concert experiences with Pearl Jam solidified his love for the band, motivating him to play a timely guitar solo to “Alive” at Madison Square Garden. Armed with a vast collection of vintage Pearl Jam t-shirts, Watt embarked on the journey of producing Dark Matter.
The process of making Dark Matter involved a collaborative effort among the band members, with each contributing their unique talents to shape the album. Watt’s goal was to bring out the best in Pearl Jam, highlighting Matt Cameron’s drumming skills reminiscent of Soundgarden and Temple of the Dog vibes. With nostalgic tracks like “React, Respond” and “Wreckage,” Dark Matter captures the essence of Pearl Jam’s raw energy and emotional depth.
Recording the album proved to be a challenge when Watt’s studio got flooded, leading him to seek help from Rick Rubin and eventually setting up camp at Shangri-La Studios. The album’s production process mirrored a live Pearl Jam show, capturing the band’s essence authentically. Tracks like “Dark Matter” and “Running” showcase the band’s punk rock roots and dynamic range, while “Setting Sun” and “Something Special” offer a softer, introspective touch.
Having Josh Klinghoffer on board as an unofficial member enhanced the album’s layers, drawing from his versatile musical abilities. Watt’s approach to producing Dark Matter involved a free-flowing, organic process, eschewing overthinking in favor of capturing the band’s live essence in the studio. The result is a cohesive album that reflects Pearl Jam’s collective talent and deep-rooted connection as a band.
Reflecting on his back-to-back experiences working with the Rolling Stones and Pearl Jam, Watt acknowledges the surreal nature of his journey. Eddie Vedder’s thoughtful gesture of gifting him a personal Pearl Jam poster underscores the significance of these milestone projects in Watt’s career. As he continues to navigate the music world, Watt remains open to new opportunities and collaborations, following the wave of his rock & roll fantasy camp-like journey.
With Dark Matter serving as a testament to Watt’s passion for Pearl Jam and his knack for producing authentic, soulful music, the album stands as a tribute to his teenage dreams and lifelong love for his favorite band. As Watt forges ahead in his musical endeavors, the legacy of Dark Matter and his collaborations with legendary artists like Pearl Jam and the Rolling Stones pave the way for more exciting projects on the horizon.
