We have no general conceptual thrust for the band, other than trying to make music that keeps our interest. When things are novel, they are probably things we have discovered by accident or investigation rather than by design.

In this quote, Steve Albini discusses the creative process behind his music, explaining that his band doesn’t follow a specific or pre-determined concept or theme. Instead, their goal is simply to make music that maintains their own interest. Albini emphasizes that the band's approach to creativity is less about a fixed vision and more about exploration and discovery, where innovation and novelty arise naturally through accident or investigation rather than careful planning or design.

Albini’s statement reveals his belief in the organic nature of artistic creation, where the best ideas come from unexpected sources rather than being engineered from the start. By focusing on things that are fresh and novel, Albini suggests that the band’s music is shaped by an ongoing process of trial, error, and discovery. This reflects his preference for spontaneity and an unstructured approach to creativity, which contrasts with a more formulaic or commercial approach to music-making.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Albini’s role as a highly influential music producer and musician, known for his work with bands like Nirvana and Pixies, as well as his own experimental projects. Albini has always been vocal about his disdain for mainstream music production, favoring a more raw and authentic approach. His comments highlight his perspective that musical innovation often emerges from unplanned or unexpected discoveries, rather than from strict formulas or commercial pressures.

Ultimately, Albini’s quote speaks to the importance of artistic freedom and the idea that creativity thrives in environments where structure is minimal and the focus is on exploring new ideas. His perspective encourages artists to embrace the unknown and find inspiration through experimentation rather than relying on a rigid concept or predefined plan. This approach allows for a more genuine and exciting creative process, one that remains fresh and engaging over time.