Between anecdotes, challenges, and the value of art, the bassist shares what it means to be part of a band for over 30 years.
In the A Fresh Face in Hell with Jonathan Evison podcast, Jeff Ament reflects on his career, revisiting key moments in Pearl Jam’s history and the challenges they have faced over the years. He talks about the band’s internal dynamics, the importance of collaboration among its members, and how, despite inevitable obstacles, they have managed to stay together for more than three decades.
At the beginning of the interview, Ament recalls his first steps in music, discussing his time with Deranged Diction, his early punk band. Growing up in a small town in Montana, he describes how discovering bands like Black Flag and Minor Threat was a revelation. “There weren’t many opportunities to play there,” he says, “so we had to create our own, organizing basement shows or playing anywhere we could.” This independent spirit has stayed with him throughout his career, influencing Pearl Jam’s approach to music and the business side of the industry.
Regarding the band’s creative process, Ament points out that it can be complicated and, at times, frustrating. “Sometimes you work hard, and in the end, none of your songs make it onto the record,” he admits. He continues by saying that the key to dealing with this is patience: “If you keep writing and bringing ideas, sooner or later, they’ll find their place.” The bassist explains that the internal dynamic is constantly changing, with some members having more material to offer at certain times than others.
During the interview, Ament also discusses the bond between the band members, comparing it to a marriage. He explains that the key to staying together for so long is mutual trust and the awareness that difficult moments are inevitable. “If you really care about someone, you’re willing to go through tough times together,” he says. He then recalls the band’s early years, when external pressure was at its highest, especially after Kurt Cobain’s death. “We felt the weight of expectations, and for Ed, it was even harder,” he shares, emphasizing how crucial it was to find a balance between personal life and the band’s success.
Another aspect Ament highlights is the band’s resilience over the years. He remembers particularly tough periods, such as between 2003 and 2006, when internal tensions were stronger, but he emphasizes that, in the end, their bond always prevailed. “Even in moments when I didn’t want to be in a band, I always prioritized our friendship,” he says.
Talking about the music industry, Ament stresses the importance of putting art first, above money and commercial expectations. He explains that Pearl Jam has always tried to avoid compromises that could undermine their artistic vision. “We turned down a lot of offers that didn’t align with what we wanted to do,” he states, adding that the band’s real goal is to create something that can stand the test of time.
Finally, Ament talks about his passion for literature and his idea of starting a podcast to discuss books and sports with his friends. He explains that, for him, art is a form of resistance and that Pearl Jam has always tried to express something authentic through their music. “In the end, that’s what keeps us alive,” he concludes.
“I’ve been thinking a lot about doing a podcast, just talking about books and sports with my friends. Those are two things I’m really passionate about, and I feel like there’s always great conversations to be had around them.” – Jeff Ament
cool Facts
- Friendship with Jess Walter: Jeff Ament is friends with writer Jess Walter, with whom he shares a passion for basketball.
- Bond with Stone Gossard: Ament and Gossard have been playing together for over 40 years, making them one of the longest-standing duos in music.
- Resilience in 1994: During a difficult time for the band, Ament and the other members of Pearl Jam managed to stay together, overcoming emotional and interpersonal challenges.
- Fighting capitalism in the music industry: Pearl Jam has often turned down offers that would have compromised their artistic integrity.
The interview with Jeff Ament is available on A Fresh Face in Hell with Jonathan Evison podcast, which can be streamed on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and other major platforms.
Born in Reggio Emilia in 1980. He created pearljamonline.it in 2001 and wrote the first edition of “Pearl Jam Evolution” in 2009 along with his wife Daria. Since 2022, he is behind 2 podcasts: “Pearl Jam dalla A alla Z” and “Fuori Orario Not Another Podcast”. He has collaborated with Barracuda Style, HvsR, Rolling Stone, Rockol and Il Fatto Quotidiano. He continues relentlessly to try to find “beautiful melodies that say terrible things”.
Favorite song: Present Tense
Favorite album: No Code
Favorite bands/artists other than PJ: Tom Waits, Soundgarden, Ramones, Bruce Springsteen, IDLES, Fontaines D.C., The Murder Capital, Dead Kennedys, Mark Lanegan, Cat Power, R.E.M.