At this point, the Maxes appear to essentially be you two with a rotating set of back-up musicians. Are there any plans for a more "permanent" full lineup?
Josh: It's not on purpose. The biggest issue is we live in New York City, which has some of the highest rents in America, so if you're a full-time musician, you have to work constantly. Good musicians are usually very busy, and unless you can keep them working, they have to go where the dough is, and you can't blame them. Since we haven't played out with any regularity in the last two years, people come and go. But once the album starts to build momentum and we're playing out live regularly again, we'll keep the same guys. We have had the same drummer for 4 years. Actually he's in another band at the moment that's keeping him busy, so here we are again!
The act is basically Julie and myself, anyhow. We can do it as a duet, a trio or an orchestra or big band.
So... having covered "Cuban Pete" on your first group album, I have to ask: how does Josh look in a zoot suit?
Josh: I'm sorry — did you say something?
For information on the Maxes' upcoming performing schedule and more, check out The Maxes.
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