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 Matthew Woodley, drummer and singer for Montreal's "post-classic rock" band Plants and Animals. EM: What is your favorite song to play live? And why? That often changes. But so far my favorite to play off our new record is "Fake It." EM: What city did you most enjoy playing on tour? And why was it memorable? Akureyri, Iceland. It's just below the Arctic Circle and surrounded by volcanoes, geysers and troll/elf villages. The whole town came out to the show, since they don't get traveling bands passing through so often. The place is absolutely magical. EM: What was the strangest town you’ve played in? And why? See above. Moncton, New Brunswick, is pretty nutso too. EM: What kind of vehicle do you tour in? We roll in a Chevrolet Express, complete with walk-in closet and two-car garage. EM: Who was your favorite band to play on tour with? And why? Gnarls Barkley. Even though we've only played Columbus, Ohio, that one time, we've never seen anyone rock Columbus, Ohio, so hard. EM: What obscure band did you recently "discover" while on tour? Wolf Parade. EM: What is your favorite venue to play in? And why was it a great experience? I like old theatres. Big, crooked, old rooms with great sound. La Tulipe in our town of Montreal is that kind of place. EM: While on tour, what is the band’s consensus as the favorite spot to eat? Where is it located? Sushi in Vancouver, tacos in Cali, sandwiches in Brooklyn, saag in London. We try to take advantage of the local classics. EM: What's the worst spot you've eaten at? Le gas station. EM: On nights off in-between shows, how do you like to occupy your time? Usually with a brief calisthenic workout, a visit to the museum, then dinner and dancing. EM: If you or the band had to agree on one “must-read” book for the long trip, what would it be? And why? Moby Dick. Dang, that whale is hard to catch! EM: What is the most interesting thing you’ve found or bought while on tour? There was this spiky little guy we found in the desert of California. He lives on the dash of our van now. EM: What are some of the best records to listen to on the road? Exile on Main Street, old Motown and anything by Taj Mahal. EM: What’s the most unique piece of equipment on your tour? We use maracas with real gold nuggets in them. EM: What comfort items are a "must" when embarking on a long tour? Nic and Warren are into those neck pillows. I think they're obscene. EM: What is the hardest thing about being on the road? Geez. All the love we leave at home. EM: What's one amazing location that you fantasize about playing live? The Great Pyramids of Giza. *** La La Land is due out on Secret City Records on April 20. The band is currently on tour in North America. http://www.plantsandanimals.ca/ http://www.myspace.com/plantsandanimals