Almost forty years after John Andrew Fredrick first formed The Black Watch in Santa Barbara, the band continues to defy expectations. With the release of their twenty-sixth album, Varied Superstitions, Fredrick remains a prolific force in independent music. During a recent conversation, we explored his deep-seated love for British culture, the intersection of literature and melody, and his famously candid disdain for the political sphere.
A Legacy of Influence and Adaptation
When asked about the frequent comparisons between The Black Watch and iconic British post-punk or janglepop acts, Fredrick is characteristically self-deprecating. He points to The Beatles as a foundational influence, while also acknowledging the profound impact of the London-Canadian band The Lucy Show. For Fredrick, the act of songwriting is a dialogue with the past, a sentiment he frames with a touch of humor: “Paul McCartney always used to say, ‘We pinch from everyone,’ so I’ll just beg off and say I admit that as well.”
His sound, often layered with the dreamy, jangling textures reminiscent of The Cure or the experimental melodicism of Echo & The Bunnymen, reflects a lifelong artistic evolution. Despite the inevitable comparisons, Fredrick maintains that his work is driven by a genuine reverence for the artists who shaped his youth. He describes his album creation process as a careful balancing act—masking influences while honoring the traditions of the 80s indie scene that defined his early career.
The Outsider Perspective
Fredrick’s connection to the UK goes beyond musical inspiration; it is a cultural affinity that has shaped his worldview. “I’ve spent a lot of time in your country,” he notes, reflecting on his desire to immerse himself in the literary atmosphere of London’s pubs and bookstores. This “Dickensian” charm provides a stark contrast to his life in California, where he balances his music career with teaching tennis to children.
His detachment from the traditional music industry “scene” is a deliberate choice. By avoiding the pressures of chasing trends, Fredrick has maintained a level of authenticity that is rare in an industry often obsessed with the “shiny and new.” He views his career with a detached, philosophical humor, noting that while he may not have achieved mainstream fame, he has succeeded in doing exactly what he set out to do: creating music on his own terms.
“I try to just behave as though my band IS huge! I’ve gotten to do just what I wanted to do.”
As he looks toward the future, Fredrick remains committed to his craft, unbothered by the lack of commercial validation. For fans of intelligent, melody-driven rock, his continued output is a testament to the power of staying true to one’s vision. Whether through his artist spotlight or his latest record, John Andrew Fredrick proves that longevity is not just about survival—it is about maintaining a sense of wonder and a sharp, critical eye on the world.