Weezer Reunite With Ocasek for Next Album
Four years since the release of their sophomore album Pinkerton, Weezer are finally set to begin recording their third album. Sessions are slated to commence Dec. 1 in Los Angeles, with production duties assigned to ex-Cars frontman Ric Ocasek, who did the band’s 1994 eponymous debut.
Inspired by the legions of devout fans who turned out to see them during a lengthy road stint this past summer and fall, the quartet returned to Los Angeles in October to begin recording. They’d interviewed a gaggle of potential board men including Ocasek, ex-Talking Head Jerry Harrison (Live, Creeper Lagoon), Jerry Finn (Blink-182) and Dave Sardy of New York noisemakers Barkmarket, who’s produced and/or engineered the likes of Nine Inch Nails,Red Hot Chili Peppers and Helmet.
As of their predetermined start date, Oct. 23, Weezer had yet to settle on a producer and so opted to begin recording without one. According to a source close to the band, Interscope execs then stepped in and blocked the sessions, strongly suggesting the band renew its search for a producer.
Ocasek had originally looked to be a no-go due to scheduling conflicts in New York, where he’d suggested the band record. When his December docket opened up, however, Weezer quickly got to work on a five-song demo for submission to the label (it was delivered late last week). Songs on the demo included “No More Confusin'”, “Sugar Booger,” “Don’t Let Go,” “Ayleen” and “Cryin’ and Lonely.” Interscope has yet to hand down a verdict, and calls to the label were not returned by press time.
In the meantime, Weezer have worked out a deal with Yahoo! to sponsor a tour for early next year. The Yahoo! Outloud Tour, which featured Smash Mouth and Luscious Jackson on its last outing, heads out in mid-February. Until then, new Weezer will only be available via an annual holiday compilation put out by Los Angeles’ KROQ DJs Kevin and Bean. Weezer’s contribution has a working title of “Christmas Song,” and will be out later this month.