Haunted Continents

Photo by, Corey Gegner

Meet Haunted Continents

You’ve heard of haunted houses, but how about Haunted Continents? The Brooklyn-based project helmed by James Downes incorporates everything from cellos to full bands to make his unique sound. We had the pleasure to chat with this long time indie rocker about his OG punk days, his own record label, and the worst music to play at a family din. 

Don’t be afraid — give it a peep below! 

A SELF-PORTRAIT by Haunted Continents

Would You Rather

shrink five times your actual size, or grow one hundred times your actual size? What would you do?

Is this permanent? If so, I'd rather shrink so I can save money on food and rent. If you were 100x times your size, you'd have to buy an airplane hangar or go live on an island and never see your friends again. That'd be the worst. 

Some questions with Haunted Continents

What was the inspiration behind this solo project?

It started as a way to air out some of the more rock/experimental songs in my catalogue. I play in an indie/folk project, TEOA, and not all my songs are appropriate for that band. But I keep writing and don't want good tunes to go to waste. Haunted Continents has developed into a way to take those other songs to different producers and see what they do with them. I like to work with producers who usually make music that's different from my typical Death Cab meets The National vibe.

The first six songs (and next two, to be released in May) were produced by my good friend Andy Seltzer (Maggie Rogers, Chelsea Cutler.) His pop sensibilities added such a cool texture. The next batch of songs is produced my friend Flowerman (Oscar Lewis.) He shines in the electronic/beats space and brought a really cool groove and production to the songs.

Where did you grow up? Did it shape your current work?

I grew up in Old Saybrook, CT, a suburb of New Haven. And yeah, it did shape my work. First off, before I could drive, there were only three things to do in my little town: play sports, start a band, get fucked up in a trailer. The choice was obvious and the lack of options left little distraction so my friends and I worked our asses off.

Secondly, Connecticut's hardcore/punk/metal scene was and is badass. As soon as we could drive, we were checking out shows in New London, New Haven, Wallingford, Meriden. The DIY scene was thriving and we wanted to be a part of it. We cut our teeth there. That ethos is with me to this day.

What is a word that does not get used enough?

Hmmm. Good question. I'd say it depends on who you are. For me, I'd say I don't use the word 'no' enough. I'm getting better, though. I tend to say yes to a bunch of shit and overload myself, fill my days with tasks that don't serve me. In the last few months, I've been saying 'no' more and it's really opened up my days for the things and people that mean the most to me. Some folks should probably say 'yes' more. Say 'yes' to new experience, to yourself.

What led you to start your own label, Forest Park Recordings?

It all goes back to the days as a teenager in the CT hardcore scene when I'd flip my favorite records over and see that the album was released on an imprint based out of the town fifteen miles down the road. I was inspired by the fact that people would create these organizations and do everything themselves. I love that self sufficiency.

If you could give one animal species (besides people) the ability to fly which would it be. Why?

I think it'd be funny and terrifying if cats could fly. They'd be the closest thing to gargoyles. Could you imagine a cat sitting on a ledge, lurking, watching? Gives me the creeps, but also makes me laugh.

Your performances include different configurations of cello/guitar duets and full bands. How do preserve your own artistic vision when collaborating with others?

I think the songs themselves are what preserves the artistic vision and form the base of any collaboration. If other players come into the fold, I welcome the changes they insight and follow where the inspiration takes us. I've always loved how certain artists play different renditions of their songs live. Bob Dylan has been doing that forever, and of course countless others. Ultimately, I think the vision will always be true if the intention is true.

What is the worst music you could play at a family event/dinner?

Pestilence "Devouring Frenzy". I love this song and this band, but it's certain to ruin any mood when there are uptight folks around. Haha.

Any final comments? (This is your electronic soapbox for one last answer.)

I hope people are doing what they can to stay healthy and safe (physically and emotionally.) We're living through an unprecedented disruption and it'll be more important than ever to take steps to fight for your well being and the well being of those around you.

Take heart in the fact that this time is bringing about wild peaks in inspiration and connectedness. If you're a hustler, keep hustling and rock on. If you're feeling fucked up by all this, reach out to your people and let them know.