Fair

When Fair debuted with 2006’s The Best Worst-Case Scenario, the indie rockers were immediately heralded as an innovative buzz band known just as much for sophisticated songwriting as infectious appeal. In the four years between that underground blockbuster and the brand new Disappearing World, members Aaron Sprinkle (vocals, guitar), Erick Newbill (guitar), Joey Sanchez (drums, percussion) and Nick Barber (bass) haven’t just refined that celebrated formula, but threw some musical and lyrical curve balls into the already alluring atmosphere.

“Musically I wanted to really tap into my influences, which are mostly ‘60s and ‘70s and lot of ‘80s too,” says Sprinkle, who longtime listeners will also recognize as leader of Poor Old Lu and Rose Blossom Punch turned solo star, not to mention all-star producer (Anberlin, Acceptance, Copeland, The Almost, Demon Hunter, Kutless, Jeremy Camp). “And that’s really the feel of this record- a lot of very retro moments wearing those influences on our sleeve. We approached this record doing exactly what we wanted to do, and fortunately for listeners, we like well structured pop songs. The record’s more dynamic and exciting in some places than the last one, but it’s also more fragile and sincere in other places.”

As is Fair and Sprinkle’s tradition, that type of contagiousness is coupled with soul-bearing depth throughout Disappearing World. In addition to being the front man’s most deliberate, it also packs his most substantial weight to date. “Honestly in the past, I’ve written lyrics and kind of figured out what they’re about after the fact,” he confesses with a laugh. “But there was none of that on this record, just real substance that I could connect with in hopes that it would further connect with the people who listen with themes of redemption and grace.”

Of course, anyone who looks at Sprinkle’s track record in Fair or otherwise could point to the fact that he continues to ascend the ladder of success, but no matter how exponential the growth, the switch hitter insists on creative integrity every step of the way. And after a scan of the tracks throughout Disappearing World, it’s evident that trend of respect will continue, while simultaneously marking Sprinkle’s most satisfied state since kicking off his career as a teenager in the early 1990s.

“I’ve never been this excited about something I’ve done before,” he promises. “I don’t question a single moment on this record and that’s a huge thing for me because normally I’m incredibly insecure when it comes to my own music. I’m so happy with every moment and I owe that to the guys in the band because it’s a great place for me to bounce ideas off of. In that regard, it’s scary to put something like that out because if people don’t respond well to it, you’ll feel hurt for being so vulnerable. But I feel confident that people who like Fair are going to like it and I’m hoping the rest of the world will too, even if it’s just a few thousand people at a time.”