There is a mystique that accompanies Love Inks, adding to the band's compelling sound. Maybe it's the infectious melodies, as songs such as "Blackeye" take you on a dream pop journey, enraptured by melancholic and somber chords and vocalist Sherry LeBlanc's softly-spoken delivery. Maybe it's the band's name, derived from a famous occult book (witches apparently used to do anything for love).

Regardless, the band's minimalist approach and knack for poppy, memorable hooks, has contributed to their gradual success; the band released their debut E.S.P. last year, and will be performing with Austin locals Learning Secrets for their eight-year anniversary tonight. Taking time out of his schedule to speak with me, guitarist Kevin Dehan explained the band's name, who would be who if the band had to choose a Wu-Tang member to be, and the Love Inks' future plans.

Eli Watson: How did the group come together?

Kevin: It had been a long time coming. We never had any time though, and finally we decided the time was right.

I read in another interview that one of the main components of y’all coming together, was a mixtape that you made. What song do you remember having left the best impression on you, and are you a big N.W.A. fan?

K: Yeah, I made a mixture. There's a song on it by Asia called "Voice of America." Everyday I wake up and put that song on, and every night I put it on before I go to bed. I really fucking love America. And no, I am not an N.W.A. fan.

I also found that the band name’s origin is pretty interesting as well. How did you come across the occult book the band's name is derived from, and have you ever heard a friend actually doing the procedure to making “Love Inks?”

K: I found the name from a famous occult book; I was digging through stuff. I haven't heard of anyone trying it yet, but you have to sacrifice an animal and write the letter on the skin, so no vegans need apply to that one.

You all released E.S.P. last year, and the album is great. How was the recording process with you as producer?

K: Thanks, it's always great working with me as the producer. I am very knowledgeable and charming. I also don't have to listen to anyone else's ideas, which just slows people down. I listen to Sherry and that's it. My theory is that I.Q. levels drop with the more people you add to a situation. Try finding a place to eat with a group of five people, then try with ten people, then twenty. The more people there are the closer you are to a kindergarten class.

2011 was a busy year for you guys. Besides doing SXSW and U.S. tour dates, you also did many international dates as well. How was that experience, and any wild stories?

K: A lot happened last year personally and with the band. It felt like ten years wrapped in one. There was too much that happened to sum it up here. We're all alive.

Kevin you’ve lived in Austin most, if not all of your life. How has it been seeing Austin shaped into this musical capitol it is commonly known as now?

K: No comment.

I noticed on one of your wall posts that you guys went to the Wu-Tang performance that happened recently. If you could be any member of Wu-Tang who would it be (O.D.B. included)?

K: Yeah, that was cool. Those guys are a force. I would be U-God; I think Sherry would be Ghostface.

Lastly, what are your plans for this year? I noticed that you all have SXSW 2012 coming up. What else is there for you all?

K: We'll be adding new elements to our live show, recording a new album, and touring extensively.