It's no small feat to remain an active band for more than 10 years, but laid-back Portland, Ore., band Blitzen Trapper take it in stride.

Now on tour in support of their seventh studio album, the appropriately named VII, Blitzen Trapper stopped in to The Current's studios to play some songs and to chat with Bill DeVille, who points out the new record has "a bluesier, swampier, even dancy sound."

Front man Eric Earley and keyboardist/guitarist Marty Marquis share some stories from the road, including how Blitzen Trapper have carved out a fan following in Fargo, N.D. Earley also talks about his influences, which range from old-time Appalachian songs to 1970s Waylon Jennings tunes to today's hip hop; the common thread, Earley says, is storytelling.

Blitzen Trapper play at First Avenue in Minneapolis tonight at 7 p.m.; Baraboo, Wis., band PHOX open.

Songs Peformed

"Shine On"
"Thirsty Man"
"Don't Be a Stranger"

All songs off Blitzen Trapper's album VII, out now on Vagrant Records.

Hosted by Bill DeVille
Produced by Derrick Stevens
Engineered by Michael DeMark