E, the frontman of the band Eels, reflected on his music career and themes of mortality in a recent interview, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the band’s debut album, *Beautiful Freak*. Released in the early 1990s, the album was a commercial success and featured notable tracks such as “Novocaine For The Soul” and “My Beloved Monster.” Despite its enduring popularity, E expressed mixed feelings about the record, describing it as a work of a young artist still finding his voice.

E acknowledged that while *Beautiful Freak* has its strengths, it also revealed his early uncertainties. He credits the follow-up album, *Electro-Shock Blues*, with marking a turning point in his artistic development. That record, which dealt with raw and personal themes including family loss, was made against advice from business advisors who preferred he replicate the lighter tone of *Beautiful Freak*. Saying he remains grateful for taking that risk, E suggested it was a choice that helped sustain him through difficult times and contributed to his longevity in the music industry.

The cover of *Cookie Happened*, Eels’ latest album, features a luminous green skeleton dunking a basketball—originally part of E’s Halloween decorations—symbolizing the inevitability of being forgotten over time, even for those at their peak. The album’s track titles, such as “Clobbered,” “Bamboozled Again,” and “One Razzle, One Dazzle,” draw on a nostalgic, old-school charm, incorporating references and sounds reminiscent of vintage cartoons and 1960s pop culture.

Several songs on *Cookie Happened* reflect on personal relationships and emotional resilience. “I’m On Standby” was inspired by a real-life friendship marked by mutual support during crises. Another track, “Dum Dums,” stands out for its country influence and tongue-in-cheek chorus, with E clarifying that the use of potentially provocative language is not meant to target any gender, but rather to explore human foibles.

While Eels has not scheduled any upcoming UK tours, E shared that he is currently focused on balancing his music career with family life. His son, now nine years old, has changed the dynamic, making extended tours difficult. Financial considerations amidst rising global costs have also impacted the feasibility of touring. Still, E remains open to the possibility of performing live again, particularly when his son might be able to travel alongside him.

Despite confronting themes of mortality and legacy in his work, E described himself as fundamentally optimistic, valuing time spent at home with his son and dogs, and finding joy in creativity. “I think about death so much because I don’t want it to end. I want to stick around,” he said. His enduring commitment to music and life was captured in the album’s energetic opening song “Clobbered,” where he sings of resilience and determination in the face of hardship.