Reissue | TN:49 Enter Shikari

In this reissue of Tape Notes Episode 49, host John Kennedy revisits his conversation with Rao Reynolds, frontman and producer of Enter Shikari, discussing the creation of their album *Nothing Is True and Everything Is Possible*. Reynolds shares the intricate, decades-spanning journey behind the album’s tracks, from a 2014 piano riff that evolved into 'The Great Unknown' to the ambitious orchestral composition 'Elegy for Extinction'. He details his debut as a sole producer, embracing influences from rave, drum and bass, reggae, and classical music, while emphasizing the band’s DIY ethos and commitment to live instrumentation. The episode reveals how layered production—using real drum kits, orchestral ensembles, and innovative plugins like Mangle—creates a sound that is both chaotic and cohesive. Reynolds also reflects on the album’s thematic depth, inspired by post-truth politics and societal fragmentation, and how music can serve as both catharsis and community. The conversation underscores the importance of creative curiosity, emotional honesty, and pushing artistic boundaries. Key takeaways include: 1) Embrace a diverse 'musical diet' to avoid creative stagnation; 2) Let early, imperfect demos guide development—don’t discard them; 3) Use real instruments and live performances to preserve authenticity; 4) Prioritize vibe over technical perfection; 5) Collaborate with trusted allies who challenge your ideas; 6) Let emotional resonance guide production choices; 7) Treat every track as a journey, not just a collection of parts; 8) Balance predictability with novelty to create lasting impact. The episode concludes with a powerful performance of 'Elegy for Extinction', recorded with the Prague Symphonic Orchestra under the guidance of composer George Fenton.