The Tearaways are giving And For Our Next Trick a second life. Newly remastered and available digitally in the U.S. via DC-Jam Records, the album captures the band’s raw rock ’n’ roll spirit, brought to life by legendary producer Ed Stasium and an impressive cast of musicians, including Benmont Tench, Stephen McCarthy and the late Blondie drummer Clem Burke.
Bassist and vocalist John “Fin” Finseth looks back on the making of And For Our Next Trick, sharing unforgettable studio moments, the chemistry behind the songs and personal memories of Burke, whose final album with The Tearaways makes this remaster especially meaningful.
What sparked the idea to remaster And For Our Next Trick now?
John “Fin” Finseth: We always felt the album didn’t get the push it deserved the first time around. People kept asking us about it, and there was renewed interest from the business side in doing more with the record. It just felt like the right time to give it another shot.
Listening to these songs again today, what stands out that you might have missed back then?
Finseth: The raw feel of all of us playing together. There’s a certain energy and vibe that comes from that, and you can really hear it in these songs. That’s what stands out to me now.
Looking back at the original recording sessions, what made this album special?
Finseth: This was a COVID record. Everyone was locked up, so to speak, and making music together was something special. We also felt that working with Ed Stasium was a great match. His production style and background were exactly what we wanted for this record.
The album features some incredible musicians. What did Ed Stasium, Clem Burke, Benmont Tench and Stephen McCarthy each bring to the sessions?
Finseth: Ed’s ideas and his rock ’n’ roll background were a perfect match for us.
Having Benmont come in and add his touch was incredible. His level of playing is second to none. I remember him reviewing the charts for the songs and saying, “This song is called ‘Are You Fucking Kidding Me?’” I said, “Yep!”
Another funny moment happened while we were tracking that song. Robbie Robertson was walking by the studio, looked at me and asked, “Is that called ‘Are You Fucking Kidding Me?’” Then he just said, “Clever.”
Clem’s energy on this album was crazy good. He always gave 1,000 percent, and he elevated all of us.
As for Stephen McCarthy, I thought his pedal steel vibe would be perfect for “Emotional Distance.” I was honored that he agreed to play on the record with us.
This would become Clem Burke’s final album with The Tearaways. How does revisiting it feel today, knowing what he meant to the band?
Finseth: What’s interesting about these things is that, when you’re in the moment, you don’t always realize what it’s really all about. That reveals itself later.
Looking back, I realize how lucky we were to spend all that time with Clem and create such great music together.
I remember rehearsing with him during preproduction, then heading out to Casa Vega in Studio City afterward. We’d sit there talking about all the music we loved and the dreams we had for the record.
Unfortunately, we weren’t able to accomplish everything we wanted to with this album, which is another reason why revisiting it makes so much sense.
We miss him every day.
It’s the little things. I’ll hear a cool Dave Clark Five song or a Bowie song, and my first instinct is to call Clem and talk to him about it. Now his number is still in my phone, and all I can do is go back and read our old messages.
I really hope everyone enjoys this album. I’m sure Clem would be so happy knowing people are hearing it.
A Record Worth Rediscovering
More than a remaster, And For Our Next Trick is a celebration of musical chemistry, friendship and the unmistakable energy Clem Burke brought to The Tearaways. With Ed Stasium behind the console and a stellar lineup of musicians contributing to its sound, the album offers listeners another chance to experience a special chapter in the band’s history.
The newly remastered And For Our Next Trick is out now digitally in the U.S. via DC-Jam Records. The Tearaways’ next album, Middle-Aged Riott, is scheduled for release in March 2027. CD’s and Vinyl will follow.
