David Bazan, former frontman of Pedro the Lion, came back in the fall of 2009 with a debut solo LP, Curse Your Branches, that blew away fans and new listeners alike. That album was step one in the reintroduction of Bazan as one of the savior songwriters of indie rock. Now he’s back, releasing his second full length, Strange Negotiations, a journey through his thoughts on politics, American culture and life as a touring musician. We had Bazan, a proud Seattleite, answer a few questions about where to find the best beer, his favorite pork sandwich and things not to do on a date with your future spouse.
Pick up Strange Negotiations in your favorite local record shop tomorrow, May 24.
What’s your town’s nickname?
Jet City, Emerald City, Rat City.
What’s your nickname for your town? 
Seattle.
Why do you live there?
I moved to Seattle with my folks in ’91, and fell in love with a local girl. I also kind of fell in love with Seattle, too. I really, really like it.
What’s the weirdest thing that has ever happened to you there? 
I shit my pants in the Marie Callender’s parking lot on I5 on a date with my now-wife. That was pretty weird.
What is your favorite local attraction (monument, park, etc)?
I like how visible the water and the mountains are at all times. It’s such a gorgeous town, it’s crazy.
What is the best time of year to be there?
Spring and Fall.
Who is your favorite local celebrity?
John Roderick.
Where is the best place to drink and what’s their specialty or happy hour?
The Leary Traveler, in Frelard. They have four rotating taps. They just have the best beer all the time.
Where is your favorite place to play?
Showbox at the Market is one of my favorite clubs in the United States.
Does where you live influence your music?
It must. I think that there is a culture of innovative dedication to rock & roll in Seattle that is contagious.
What is your favorite place to see live music and what was your favorite show there?
Again, Showbox Market is just amazing. There are many, many shows, but there is a Built to Spill show from 2004, or somewhere around there, that was, and is still, memorable. Second answer is the Tractor Tavern—Low on the first tour in support of Secret Name.
What is your favorite local band? 
The now-defunct Crystal Skulls.
What is your favorite diner or restaurant and what is their best dish?
That’s tough. Paseo. Oh my God. That place is crazy. It’s just world-class sandwiches. I’ve been through everything, but I end up at the pork slab. I’m torn between that and the pork shoulder. I think I like the pork slab the best.
What is your favorite record store and what was your best find there?
I love Sonic Boom, and I love Easy Street too. They’re both such phenomenal records stores. I can’t pick.
What is your favorite local shop?
Emerald City Guitars is a guitar geek’s dream come true.
If you could live anywhere else, where would that be?
Portland?