Inspired by the Minutemen song, Evil Monito’s “Tour Spiel” highlights the musician’s life on the road. Each week, we’ll check in with some of our favorite artists touring stateside or abroad. We’ll provide an intimate look into what it’s like to be packed in a van or waiting for a flight with the same people for hours on end. It takes a certain state of mind to survive any lengthy tour. Yet it’s the memorable experiences that make life on the road ultimately rewarding, if not interesting. This week we highlight Dan Werb of Woodhands, a Toronto-based duo immersed in electro-pop and glam rock. Eschewing pre-recorded samples and laptops, Dan and his partner Paul Banwatt have taken their manic live shows across the U.S. as well as Asia, a favorite destination for the band.

EM: What is your favorite song to play live? And why?
Woodhands – “Pockets”

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We like playing songs that we don’t quite know just yet. It keeps them exciting, As such, here’s a track from our new album Remorsecapade, which we’re still working out in anticipation of the record release and tour in 2010. It’s called “Pockets.”

EM: What city did you most enjoy while on tour? And why was it memorable?

Well, Paul and I are split on Beijing and Tokyo. I loved Beijing because it still felt like some wild frontier town where anything goes and you can kind of do whatever you want, strangely enough. Paul loved Tokyo because it is an absolute world of wonder, with the limits of technology pressing up against beautiful, ultra-traditional street scenes. Oh, and the crowds in both cities devoured us (in a good way).

EM: What are some of the strangest towns you’ve played in? And why?

Small towns always have their own sort of vibe. We played in Springfield, MO, which is the home of the National Assemblies of God and we were pretty sure we were going to be watched by three young people who were not into our shit. But when we got to the venue, it was absolutely packed and I suddenly had this revelation: no matter where you are, as long as there are kids around, they will find a way to express themselves and get cathartic. That is an amazing phenomenon and witnessing that phenomenon all across the world is one of the best parts of touring.

EM: What kind of vehicle do you tour in?

1996 Mazda MPV Minivan! Perfect for our small crew.

EM: Who have been your favorite bands to play on tour with? And why?

We loved playing with the Junior Boys because 1) they are our friends and 2) their music is insanely good. They get it done every night and it’s a real joy to watch.

EM: What is your favorite venue to play in? And why was it a great experience?

I really like Webster Hall in NYC. Nice room, great sound, and playing NYC is always a special thrill.

EM: While on tour, what is the band’s consensus as the favorite spot to eat?

Ah, the ever-changing tour menu. We disagree a lot on where to eat but one consensus is Mexican food. There is very very little good Mexican in Canada, so traveling through the States opens up this whole world of authentic Mexican. I am also a sucker for Southern fried chicken sold out of dirty fryers in the back of highway gas stations. The best.

EM: What’s the worst spot you’ve eaten at?

I went to Hooters once.

EM: On nights off in-between shows, how do you occupy your time?

We usually create flow charts and Excel spreadsheets detailing our plans for the next shows and outlining challenges that have arisen up to now. Kidding. We usually go out for a nice meal, hit the hotel gym and pool, grab some beers and watch an awesome sci-fi movie on TV.

EM: If you or the band had to agree on one “must-read” book for the long trip, what would it be?

How about one “must-listen”? Radiolab is the best public radio show out there, hands down, and it’s available on a podcast. Every touring band should listen to it. It’s crazy good!

EM: What is the most interesting thing you’ve found or bought while on tour?

Endless gear, usually found in out-of-the-way, old school electronic shops. There are crazy synths hiding all over the place!

EM: What are some of the best records to listen to on the road?

I like Kraftwerk for driving, but Paul doesn’t really listen to music on the road.

EM: What’s the most unique piece of equipment/instrument on your tour?

The keytar.

EM: What comfort items are a “must” when embarking on a long tour?

Face mask, earplugs, noise-canceling headphones, good shoes and a pillow.

EM: What’s one amazing location that you fantasize about playing live?

We played Red Rocks earlier this year and that was pretty beautiful. Playing in Asia is a trip and we’d love to go back there too. Anywhere outdoors though, on a warm summer’s eve. That’s the best.

EM: What is the hardest thing about being on the road?

Trying to keep up with your life.

EM: What is the best thing about being on the road?

Hanging out with Paul and playing shows.

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Remorsecapade is out on Paper Bag Records, Feb. 23 (U.S.).

http://www.myspace.com/woodhands