Petroleum By-Product is a Vancouver new wave band that channels 1980s new wave and glam rock with their socially conscious songs commenting on today's society. The band consists of Sally Jørgensen (synth and vocals), Vanessa Turner (bass), and Robin Borawski (percussion).
They play the Olio Festival this Saturday at The Railway Club in Vancouver. Check out my interview with Jørgensen below.
What other bands/artists are you fans of that are playing at Olio?
Animal Bodies, MT-40, and Terror Bird
You just came off a tour of the American west coast. How was that?
Fantastic. Vanessa broke off and went camping with her boyfriend and Robin and I stayed behind with the locals. We did nothing but eat junk food, drink, and watch live music. Can't get much better than that.
How would you describe your music?
It's got crass and class.
What are your thoughts on the local music scene lately and all the talented upcoming bands?
A: I'm a recluse so I don't go out and see much of the music scene anymore. I watch TV reruns and work on whatever project I'm focused on at home.
How important do you think music festivals like Olio are for showcasing new bands and independent artists?
Important, because it gets the rest of us "nobodies" out there.
What are the band's goals in the immediate future?
Record. Find a label or management. Scrap our current set for good. Have another instrument swop and write entirely different sounding music.
What direction do you think Canadian independent music is going?
Bloody hell, I don't know but I should! Perhaps I should read that Socan mail-out magazine to see which folk artist has just been signed to what, and who has been nominated for a Juno award for the most bloody boring song of the year. Hah!
Photo by Kris Krug.