Vancouver Celtic punk band The Real McKenzies have just released their first studio full-length album in four years, Westwinds, on the Fat Wreck Chords . With thirteen tracks comprised of both original material and a few covers, Westwinds offers a glimpse at a new chapter in this band's existence. That is to say, having already stood the test of time and paid their dues, as well as having experienced a handful of line-up changes throughout the years, they have stepped forth with this new release and a slight shift in sound, but one that is still unmistakably all their own. It is a heartier, more mature sound perhaps, though fuelled by just as much whiskey and kilt-wearing cultural pride, and of course that mad hybrid of punk and Celtic fare, and folk and rock'n'roll, which has been the foundation of their project for nearly two decades now.

Recently I had the opportunity and pleasure of interviewing Paul McKenzie, founder and frontman of The Real McKenzies.

Westwinds is The Real McKenzies' first album in about four years. What has the band been up to during that span? And has the new album been in the works the entire time?

We have been touring all over the globe. We released a live CD from Berlin, Germany last year, and touring more. We have been working on the latest album for about a year, and trying to live "normal" lives in between.

Evidently there have been some line-up changes between past albums and Westwinds. How has that affected the sound of the new material?

With any line-up change the band's sound will change a little, but the core of the band has remained the same. I feel the sound of the band has the same feel, and the writing on this CD has gone in a bit of a different direction compared to the other releases.

In support of Westwinds The Real McKenzies are presently out on a rather extensive tour alongside such great bands as the legendary Reverend Horton Heat and the newer but no less impressive Goddamn Gallows. How have the audiences reacted to the new songs so far? And do you typically share the bill on tours with bands outside of the Celtic punk genre, such as in this case with rockabilly and roots rock bands?

When we first played a few of the new songs to a live audience, they were a wee bit dumbstruck until someone posted the new material online. Then, as the audiences familiarized themselves with our stuff, they warmed up to it almost immediately.

As for the second part of this question, we have shared stages and tours with whomever will put up with us. We've never had a problem with any band we have had the honor to work with.

Speaking of the Celtic punk genre, as one of its long-standing and more respected bands, what are your thoughts on the current artists that seem to be drawing a good deal of focus to it in recent years, like Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, Swaggerin' Growlers, The Kilmaine Saints, Meisce, Catgut Mary, etc?

It seems that the American audiences give a great deal of support to American bands, and rightfully so.We have not been to America for quite some time now and it will be interesting to see how we shall do. Lots of people think we are a ripoff of all of the above bands (you forgot "Flatfoot 56" ) just because they have not heard of us before. In my mind I wish all of the bands great luck, as we all will need it today and in the times to come.

Having released a few albums on Fat Wreck Chords now, how is it working with one of the finest independent punk labels out there today, as well as Fat Mike?

It has, and always will be a great pleasure to work with the guys and girls at FAT. Mike is a very nice guy, and funny too. They are very professional and that makes life a little bit easier for us as a hard-working touring/recording band.

Obviously Westwinds marks a slight musical shift for The Real McKenzies, focusing less on high-energy punk and more on a sort of folk-tinged rock, with all the traditional Scottish appeal and drunkenness. Was that the sort of sound you were shooting for with this one? And what are the main points of conveyance in the lyrical content?

I believe we have remained somewhat the same when it comes to lyrical content on Westwinds, what with nautical songs, drinking songs, and heart wrenching "what's an average person to think of this screwed up world" songs. As this life changes, we are prepared to change along with it. Adapt, if you will...or...die.

On behalf of The Real McKenzies and myself, I wish to thank all of you who have supported us over these difficult years, and we hope to see you all soon. Till then, xox P.K.McKenzie