Changes are often friends of inspiration: new experiences, new instruments, new influences, new collaborations, or even just a new approach, are all things that have the power to unleash renewed curiosity and creativity. The story of Kristin Kontrol's debut record X-Communicate can be seen (and heard) from this angle: after a great six year run with her drone pop band Dum Dum Girls, whose songs were inspired by legendary electric psych bands of the '90s like Jesus and Mary Chain and Mezzy Star, Dee Dee (aka Kristin Welchez) decided it was time to mix things up a little, and start anew. The Kristin Kontrol debut album was forged through a new collaboration with Ice Choir programmer/producer Kurt Feldman, and veers decidedly towards the synth-pop sound of the '80s. We asked Kristin and Kurt a few questions about it.... Click on the title for more