“These feelings pass.”
Indie poppers Navy Gangs are to release their debut full-length album, Poach, later this year. Hailing from Omaha and now based in Brooklyn, the band formed in 2010 whilst still in high school. We caught up with Noah to talk about acceptance, Neil Young and staying in the now.
What are you listening to, reading and watching at the moment?
I’ve been listening to a lot of 70s song writers. In the vain of Arlo Guthrie, Carol King, Neil Young, Gene Clark, stuff like that, I just finished watching the Amazon Dead Documentary, and Im currently reading Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee, which is a history of the American West from the Native American perspective….its heartbreaking.
What has been your biggest life challenge so far and what did you do to overcome it?
I think the biggest challenge in life is being able to accept where you are at. There is always this yearning, I feel, for something more. Whether it is a better job, a better song, a better relationship, I think that I am always missing something and to be honest, I haven’t overcame this feeling yet, but keeping in check with the “now” is the best way to subdue the feeling.
What would constitute a ‘perfect’ day for you?
Waking up at a decent hour, going for a walk, having time to read and to write, playing music alone, playing music with friends, going to the bar, having a few drinks and a few meaningful conversations, going home, smoking weed and passing out peacefully
For what in your life do you feel most grateful?
Being able to tour, and to have the privilege of spending my time on the road playing music for communities across the world
Complete this sentence: “Ace mental health for me means…”
I don’t think I’ve ever had ace mental health, I have had consistent B minus mental health
What do you eat to stay healthy?
Kale, Brown Rice, Lemons, Salmon
Do you have a daily routine of exercise or do you make it up as you go along?
The band has been doing planks, pushups, and situps in the morning. I mostly like stretching and jumping jacks
What three songs lift your spirits?
No Other – Gene Clark
Coming Into Los Angeles – Arlo Guthrie
Ripple – Grateful Dead
What is your favourite self-help book, or motivational quote?
This Is It By Alan Watts (thanks Abe)
What advice do you offer to friends when they are feeling overwhelmed?
I would relate it to something personal, to build a connection, and just to let them know that these feelings pass and the best thing to do is to be with it in the moment.