How’s this for a tell? Despite the fact that we’ve been longtime fans of Steve Von Till’s solo work, his work under nom de guerre Harvestman, and the multiple classic albums by the imperial postmetal/punk/rock/everything band Neurosis, things fell apart super quickly during our interview about some of his listening habits and favorite records.

"I’m a big CREEM fan, been a subscriber since the first issue."

Considering all those years—nay, DECADES—that we have worshipped at the feet of the wizardly Von Till, how could we POSSIBLY take him seriously? He actually likes our work? Ew. Whatever, since we’re professionals and can maintain our poker face despite our shattering disappointment, we talked to the legend about some of the records that fuel him in the studio, at home, and in the classroom when he’s molding young minds as an elementary school teacher. Despite his serious and pensive work, we found Von Till to be a forthright and fun subject.

WAITASEC... He’s a school teacher AND a CREEM fan? Maybe it’s time to rethink this whole thing.