[markoelreno]

A couple of questions for you:

1. The new Shellac record is great! I've always wondered, though, how do you keep your objectivity when it comes to your own performances (and bandmates, whom you are close with)? Is it more difficult to do? Or are you capable, or used to, being able to judge properly whether you are happy or not happy with a performance, recording work, mix, with Shellac of North America?

2. I love your work with Low. My band recently recorded with Alan Sparhawk and Eric Swanson in Duluth (at their church/studio) and it was a great experience. One thing that always struck me on those records you did with Low was the string quartet (or more?) sounds -- just beautiful. How in particular did you get those sounds and was it any different then just miking up, sans amp, an acoustic guitar or something like that?