Lawrence.com

In the “Brief History of David Bazan” (an abbreviated autobiography), Bazan acquires a dedicated Christian fan base via his band Pedro the Lion, betrays them by writing sings about the darker side of his faith, stumbles into atheism and alcoholism, sobers up, and plays at the Cornerstone Festival “without incident.” What have you done with the last 14 years of your life?

Needless to say, Bazan isn’t one for keeping his skeletons in the closet. He’d much rather let them duke it out in his fabulously hummable songs, which are the reason we all give a damn anyways. Bazan’s new solo album “Curse Your Branches” is a well-rounded collection that sounds as assured and powerful as his best Pedro the Lion songs. Its overtly personal subject matter is put in a warm bath of catchy choruses, sparkling synths, and some downright funky beats. If questioning your faith is this much fun, sign me up!

Bazan checked in from his hotel room in Gainsville, Fla., to discuss the new record, playing the bass without looking at the fretboard, and the importance of drinking eight glasses of water a day.

He'll perform with Say Hi this Friday at the Jackpot Saloon.