Joel Plaskett Talks Polaris 2009 Nomination

Joel Plaskett has just made the 2009 Polaris Music Prize Short List for his triple-layered concept album, Three. He's now got a one in 10 chance of having his album declared the most artistically awesome record made in Canada in the last year.

We spoke to Plaskett earlier today about what this all means.

CHARTattack: So how do you feel right now?
Joel Plaskett: Its great! I'm thrilled. I wasn't expecting this. Some really great things came from this the last time [Plaskett was nominated for the album Ashtray Rock in 2007], so this is wonderful. It gives me a certain validation in what I'm doing.

What was the thing about making Three that was most exciting, most fulfilling for you?
I really liked sequencing and thinking about the album, putting it together. I really liked writing the parts for the girls [Rose Cousins and Ana Egge] once I knew they were going to be on it. I also really liked the actual recording of it. I enjoyed that part of being in the studio.

If you can't win, who amongst the other 10 nominees would you like to see win the Polaris Music Prize?
Chad VanGaalen. He's fantastic. I also love K'naan's new record, too.

Time to not be modest. Why are you guys so awesome?
Maybe it's because I'm still at it? I'm still pounding away at the pavement making albums. That's something I think.

What are you going to do with that big $20,000 cheque if you win?
I would probably sink it back in to my studio. And I would think very seriously about a new vehicle because I really need one.