Stereo Embers The Podcast 0178: David Duchovny ("The X-Files," "Californiacation")

“I’m A Different Guy After Lunch”

That’s how David Duchovny describes the creative process—his point is that no matter when we return to an unfinished work, we’re a different person than when we started it. Whether that’s five months, five days, or right after lunch. We’re always different people. As for David Duchovny, well, he’s one of those guys who wears many hats and they all fit. He’s a Golden Globe winning actor, the author of several books, a director, an environmentalist, a producer and a singer-songwriter. You know him from television shows like “The X-Files” and “Californiacation” and movies like “Kalifornia” and “Things We Lost In The Fire” but today we’re here to talk about his music. Sonically Duchovny’s work is literate and rootsy, his voice a low rumble that moves through each number with dexterity and finesse. His phrasing and his lyrics bring to mind a thoughtful blend of Springsteen circa Human Touch and Lou Reed ’s New York. Duchovny is a busy guy—he can be seen in the new film “The Craft: Legacy,” he’s just wrapped up his fourth book and his new single “Layin’ On The Tracks” is from his upcoming third solo album. If the song is any indication, it may very well be his best work yet. In this conversation Duchovny talks to Alex about protest songs, Bob Dylan and the rigors of the creative process. He also talks about tennis, David Foster Wallace and why he should have bought in Vancouver when he had a chance…..