INTERVIEW: ZoZo

INTERVIEW:

9.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Steve Shotonwa

 ZoZo

________

HER debut single is out, so…

3.jpg

it was a good moment to speak to ZoZo about I Won’t Leave Your Bed Tonight. She talks about her studies and what she has planned next in her career; the music she was raised on – and those artists she is listening to right now. I was eager to learn more about her music and the themes that go into it; what compelled her decision to get into music – and what London is like with regards inspiration and creativity.

ZoZo looks ahead to Christmas and talks about gigs; how she feels about the situation in Catalunya (as she is from that area) - and why she moved to the U.K. years ago.

________

Hi, ZoZo. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi, Sam! Great thank, you.

I’ve just released my first official single, I Won’t Leave Your Bed Tonight, so that’s all that’s on my mind really! I’ve also just started studying a Masters in Songwriting and Production at Tileyard - so I have quite a lot there, too.

Busy time of the year!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

Yes, sure. My name is ZoZo. I grew up in Catalunya and moved to the U.K. six years ago to pursue my love for writing and music. I describe my music as Dream-Pop with lots of synths layers and cinematic sounds. My lyrics touch on everyday life - along with stories and secrets we don’t tell.

DMb6AfeXkAAPsOR.jpg

I Won’t Leave Your Bed Tonight is your new single. What is the story behind it?

The song revolves around having a connection with a guy but you only seem to meet up and hang out at night. I only ever knew him while he was drinking and, as a non-drinker myself, I was aware of the way he/we came across to others in venues. I woke up in the middle of the night, once, and realised I didn’t know this person at all, really, and wanted to leave - but I didn’t until he had a clearer mind and ‘remembered who I was’.

Will there be a video for the song coming up?

Yes! There’s currently a lyric video on my YouTube, but there will be an official music video coming in a few weeks, around November!

Excited for this one!

The song is released via Killing Moon. What is it like working with the label and are there more song coming?

They’re great and I’ve been free to express myself the way I wanted to. There’s more singles coming after the music video - no dates set yet but more singles from ZoZo coming soon yes!

How did you first get into music? Was it something you got into at an early age?

My dad is a Classical pianist and always played beautiful music all-day-long, echoing through the house. I grew up with a lot of cheesy ‘bad’ Spanish Pop - which I loved as a kid and would pretend to be on stage dancing in front of the mirror! It was never something I thought I’d end up doing until I bought a guitar the day I finished school at eighteen and just couldn’t stop writing songs.

I’d always written lyrics and sang to myself in the woods but, finally, really got into music properly in my late-teens.

paint.jpg

Who are the artists that inspire you most, would you say?

I love artists like Christine and the Queens, Aurora; Lorde, Rhye and Shura. I only discovered them in the past four years. Earlier on, I used to listen to a lot of ABBA and Coldplay. I think all these artists portray their art so genuinely - and are just great musicians with amazingly catchy songs!

Recently, you modelled for Ofio (and their autumn/winter collection). Will you be doing any more fashion shoots and what was the experience like?

Yes. It was great!

I’ve known them for a year or so. I did some modelling when they first launched last year. I specially loved this last shoot as it captured the warm autumn colours, which I love. It was a great shoot in Holland Park; the colours are so vibrant at the moment! I hope to do more with Ofio in the future. I used to do theatre and have always been fascinated by visuals, so I’d love to more modelling. There’s a lot you can express in a photo and I feel visual art and music go hand-in-hand.

Always up for collaborating with photographers and interesting brands!

7.jpg

You are a Catalan/Scottish girl living in London. Why did you decide to come to the U.K. and what do you think about Catalan’s fight for independence at the moment?

I decided to move for music. I studied music in Brighton for two years and then moved to London because I was getting more and more gigs here. I think it’s one of the best places to be for what I want to do. I developed my sound over the past years while living in this crazy place - and I’m really happy with everything surrounding me.

Catalunya…I grew up there, so I feel strongly about the whole situation that’s going on right now (and over the past decades). I’ve never been very political or patriotic so my views come from having grown up in the country; living with the local people who have lived through Franco’s dictatorship. It’s horrible what happened three weeks ago when the Catalans went to vote; horrific.

Spain has to change and independence definitely seems the way forward for Catalunya.

What is London like in terms of opportunities and inspiration? Is it a city you feel alive and comfortable in?

I adore London!

Yes. I love people watching and discover new places every day. There are lots of opportunities but I also think you really have to go out there and chase them (like everything). It’s an amazing place for new music and every type of artist to express themselves.

I couldn’t see myself living anywhere else (for a long time, for now!)

5.jpg

Next month, you will be playing at The Old Blue Last. Are you looking forward to that gig and are there going to be any more gigs before 2018?

Yes. I’m really looking forward to it! I haven’t played a live set in a few months, so it will be exciting to perform some new songs and upcoming releases on the 7th. I don’t have any other gigs planned before 2018.

We’re putting on a Xmas showcase with my MA. on the 14th December at Nambucca - so you may catch me playing some songs there; more info closer to the time on my socials!

billie.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Billie Eilish

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

I love Billie Eilish and Sigrid: really catchy songs with great production and attitude!

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

These three albums mean the most to me because they just transport me to another, strange world - I’ve listened to them on-repeat at certain points in the past two years - and I can remember exactly where and what I was doing.

Music is amazing!

Christine and the Queens - Chaleur humaine

I just love the textures and simple, but really catchy, production on all her songs. I’m fascinated by androgyny and love that she portrays that freely in her music, videos; dance and lyrics.

10.jpg

Lorde - Melodrama

Lorde and Jack Antonoff, who co-wrote most of the album, are just brilliant songwriters! I love this album because of the amount of experimenting they did in the production. There’s similar piano parts in a couple of the songs - which made me go back and re-listen to them again. They’re very clever at putting strange, interesting sounds and vocal/harmonic changes together.

It’s a whole journey I was listening to on-repeat at the beginning of the summer as I made the decision to release my first single. It takes me back to feeling excited but nervous!

Aurora - All My Demons Greeting Me as a Friend

Runaway was the first song I heard off the album. The middle eight made me cry almost instantly. All of her songs have that strange feeling where you’re smiling, but could almost cry at the same time. Her lyrics are both childlike and very profound (and grown-up) which I love. I feel like I connect very well with her quirky ways and enchanting music.

I think my music could be a mixture of all three - they’re very inspiring.

8.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Write loads, all the time. Go out and meet people. Perform a lot and network.

Record every little idea and start producing simple demos. I really found my sound after I started producing and I started writing differently. ‘Persistence’ is probably the best word to describe artists: you just have to do it.

I’m still trying: we’re all trying!

6.jpg

Christmas is not too far away. Do you have plans already or will you be busy working?

Yes. I’m going home to Catalunya for a few days. I’m in the middle of planning my next single and thinking of the video concept - so I may be filming and editing that over the Xmas period.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Yes. Billie Eilish – watch

Such a cute, catchy wee tune!

Thank you! ZoZo

_________

Follow ZoZo

4.jpg

INTERVIEW: Jessica Murae

INTERVIEW:

jess3.jpg

 Jessica Murae

________

IT is exciting discovering a talented…

single.jpg

young artist from Watford. I have not featured a Watford musician since I wrote about The Staves – that was over a year ago, now! Jessica Murae has provided me an excuse to dig into Watford and find out about its music. Murae herself is an emotive voice who is inspired by singers like Stevie Nicks and Florence Welch. I ask her about her latest single, Wild, and the story behind it; her previous track, Still Cold – and how it feels having that song included in Salute Music Makers’ Top-100. Murae talks about her creative process and whether she is making more music at the moment; the gig dates approaching – and whether she will get any downtime before the end of the year.

I ask Murae what her fondest memory of the year has been; the new artists she would recommend to us – and a trio of albums that have inspired and influenced her own music.

________

Hi, Jessica. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m all good, thanks! I’ve had a busy week trying to organise a gig I’ve got coming up - but it’s been a fun one.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m an Indie-Pop singer-songwriter from Watford with an obsession for vintage clothing and Instagram-ing. 

main.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Charlotte Epstein

Can you give me a sense of what you’re working on at the moment? Will there be any new material this/next year?

Yes! I’m currently finishing my last single of the year called Like Magic; it’s in the final mixing process and I’m hoping to release it in November with a visualiser video. It’s quite different to my previous tracks: it’s very ambient and does not have a lot of lyrical content; I’ve been mainly focusing on the production this time.

Your song, Still Cold, made it into Salute Music Makers’ Top-100. How did that make you feel and how is the voting coming along?

It’s been a crazy experience.

I was surprised, at first, but I honestly feel very honoured. There have been some artists in the final-hundred that I have followed for a while just as a fan - so, to be in the chosen alongside them has been a great honour. I’m working hard on the voting process. I have a strong group of loyal people around me who are helping me.

Wild, released in June, is your latest. What inspired the song and how has the (positive) reaction to the song affected you?

I wrote the song at a time in my life when I wanted to do something spontaneous. I wanted the song to feel very free and open: the ending is a huge representation of that where I’m mostly ad-libbing. The reaction has been incredible. It’s been pushing me to get more music out there this year - and I’m very excited to get working on the next E.P.

How do songs come together? Do you set time aside to write or is it more natural?

Both.

Sometimes, I will keep a day or two free in the week just to sit and write music: other times, I will wake up with a melody in my head or overhear something someone’s said - and feel inspired to write a song about it.

It’s not often a very structured process for me.

Can you tell me how you got into music? Did you grow up around music as a youngster?

I started singing from a very young age with, mostly, musical theatre in mind. This came from my dad, who is an actor. It wasn’t until my late-teens that I started writing music. My taste in music has always been indie pop with a huge 1970s influence - which came from my parents.

My dad was always playing Pink Floyd in the car - and I came to love that music from a young age.

jess2.jpg

You have been compared to the likes of Stevie Nicks and Florence Welch. Are these artists you look up to?

Absolutely! They’re fabulous songwriters and have a very spiritual side to their writing which, I think, makes them so different to modern Pop artists. Their lyrics are have been constructed in such a way it’s like you’re reading a poem - and not just a generic song.

Watford is your hometown. What is it like for a musician there? Is there quite an active scene for musicians?

It’s definitely growing...

We have a Watford Musicians Collective on Facebook and have the loyal The Horns pub - where The Staves and Chasing Grace have come from. It’s one to always turn to if you’re looking for new people to work with. The LP Cafe is also a popular venue which is seeing more and more live music - and is a perfect hub for local musicians.

jess5.jpg

If you had to select a memory from this year that sticks in the mind – which would you select?

Filming the video for Wild.

It was a CRAZY day. I had some great people helping me; however, I really blew it when I forgot the costumes. The polka dot jumpsuit you see in the video was definitely not supposed to be in there…

pard.jpg

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

I’ve really been enjoying an R&B artist called Sabrina Claudio. Her voice is like velvet.

Girl band Paradisia are another incredible group who I found through Spotify. Their cover of Bruce Springsteen’s Dancing in the Dark is insanely beautiful.

What tour dates do you have coming up? Any U.K. dates coming up?

I’m performing at Notting Hill Arts Club on Wednesday 18th October and then taking a little break to work on the new E.P.

gig.jpg

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Tapestry by Carole King

It taught me a lot about songwriting. Her voice is so honest: it’s like your listening to her personal story each time.

If You Wait by London Grammar

This album has taught me that simplicity is beautiful and okay. Hannah’s voice represents that perfectly. It gives me goosebumps every time.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac

You knew this one was coming…there’s not much more to say other than that I’ve been listening to this album since I was seven-years-old - and I’ve never grown tired of it. 

jess4.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

I really feel like I’ve still got a lot to learn but, I guess, if you’re just starting out then go to as many gigs as you can and learn from them. Network and build a strong set of songs to get started. 

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I’ll be writing over Christmas. I don’t like to stop: I’ve always got new ideas on the go.

jess6.jpg

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Yay! Give Paradisia a go - Dancing in the Dark

_________

Follow Jessica Murae

jess.jpg

INTERVIEW: Kim Logan

INTERVIEW: 

kim.jpeg

 Kim Logan

________

THE Nashville-based Rock and Roll artist Kim Logan…

kim6.jpeg

has brought us her newest double-sided release, Pseudoscience: Chapter 3. From it, we have the tracks Ladyboy and Hitch Your Wagon – Logan explains and talks about both tracks and how they fit together. The 'Pseudoscience' series has been going a while so I ask how the third volume came to be – and whether there is going to be a fourth. She tells me about her musical background and attending Berklee College of Music; spending a decade in a Classical/Opera setting and how her unique music – that sits in an intersection of past Rock and Roll with present Americana fetishisation – formulated.

Logan discusses Nashville and working with great local artists; the new tour dates she has coming up; whether she will come to Britain in the coming months – and what her live shows will entail.

________

Hi, Kim. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey! I’m well - and my week has been BUSY!

I’m about to take on the biggest show of my whole career in original music: a night at Nashville’s Marathon Music Works, producing and starring in a  Hallowe’en-themed Rock and Roll circus with the Music City Burlesque. 

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

Well. My name is Kim Logan and I’m a Florida-born songwriter and musician; raised on Opera and theatre, but now, on the road with my band playing our takes on Soul, Psych; Blues, Jazz - and many other genres fused into Rock and Roll. I am also the owner of my record label and publishing entity, Swamp Thing Records, and I’ve put out a pretty extensive - though, young - discography of my original recordings. 

The double-sided Pseudoscience: Chapter 3 is here. Can you tell me what inspired the work and the themes it explores?

Ladyboy, the first track, was inspired by this relationship I was in, on-and-off, for the past three years with this androgynous being - who is also an intensively touring musician. I just tried to paint the image with words of what it feels like when we’re together…it was complicated, as all artist relationships are, but it was FUN and never feels quite over. He’s actually quite an archetype that I have watched myself be drawn to almost constantly.

I was explaining some of the poetic ideas I had about this guy to my guitar player and producer Gyasi, who is also this dynamic androgynous presence, and the song just kind of came out of that part of my mind - that’s living in the East Village of Manhattan in 1977.  Gyasi’s riff was perfect. We go way back to the freshman dorms at Berklee together, so he just gets me. 

Hitch Your Wagon - the B-side, if you will - was something I wrote a while ago - and breathed new life into when I paired it with this project with Gyasi. He played every instrument on the recording and, like Ladyboy, we laid it down on a 1984 Tascam 388 analog tape machine...so it just sounds warm and sparkly (and perfect). I wanted to take a Country song I had written in earlier times and give it the full and heavy psychedelic treatment - so we jumped into that space. 

Ladyboy and Hitch Your Wagon are the new tracks. Will we see any more material in the coming months?

Yes! Chapter 4 is in-the-works for recording at the top of the New Year - and there will probably be one more after that (before Pseudoscience becomes an L.P.).

I’m hoping to have that all tied in a bow by the end of 2018. 

kim5.jpeg

I get a sense your work has got more ambitious and varied as your career has progressed. Have you felt yourself growing as an artist over the past few years?

It totally has.

I’ve always (just) been absolutely honest about what I put out. I can write and sing all over the map genre-wise but I only release what is speaking to me loudest at the time - what generally goes along with what I have been most interested in hearing, wearing and reading during the recording process. My first record was Southern-Psych./Rockabilly stuff. What I’m doing now is, essentially, from the same skeleton - but I’ve developed my songs, lyrically, into something closer to what I naturally write as poetry…so, that feels good.

My backing-band, whom I take on the road (‘The Hydramatic’) has been a huge inspiration for me on the technical side of playing and finding old records. They can play absolutely ANYTHING and have widened my scope into areas I had never gone deep enough into with Motown, Hip-Hop; Disco, Funk and Jazz. That came out in our-sort of impromptu E.P., Fresh Juice, which we put out earlier this year. 

That’ll eventually be a full L.P., too... 

Berklee College of Music is somewhere you must have learnt a lot. How important was your time there in regards your musical development and education?

Berklee has been a long road for me; one that has been difficult to officially wrap up because of my busy touring schedule - which has begun to include international trips and longer periods away from the normalcy of office-type work. But, I’ve learned skills and tools for almost every facet of my music career from Berklee - and have met some of the most extraordinary partners and connections through the larger community.

Whenever I think I would go back and do life over again, and not go to Berklee because of the RUINOUS student debt...I remember that just the sheer fact of meeting Gyasi, alone, was worth the price of admission. 

kim2.jpeg

How did you get from a Florida-raised classically trained singer to a Rock artist in Nashville? What was the decision behind embracing the city and genre?

Like many of us who built our careers here in Nashville, we came in a wave following Jack White, The Black Keys and the Kings of Leon. Country music and the Blues are the foundation blocks of Rock and Roll - and we all chased that to Music City. Even though Country music is still the most pervasive genre in the whole American South; Rock and Roll has more of a presence in Nashville than any other city I've visited - except, maybe, L.A. 

It's hard to find a more solid Rock and Roll community than what we have in Nashville...and I'm proud of that.  

Give me a flavour of the artists you grew up with. Whose music got in your heart at an early age?

I’ve always been surrounded with a super-worldly music education; being fortunate enough to have a large family that turned me onto different genres constantly but, of course, there were the standouts that really blew my mind: The Rolling Stones, The Beatles; Aerosmith and Led Zeppelin were my earliest consciousness of records, thanks to my parents.

Bonnie Raitt, Amy Winehouse; Jack White and Lady Gaga all played formative roles in how I began to see myself as an artist and songwriter at various times in my stages of life. 

gyasi.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Gyasi

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

My friends are my favourite bands - and some of the best Rock and Roll and songwriting in a very long time - and bubbling up in my haunts of Nashville, New York; Oxford, Atlanta and Chicago. Gyasi’s debut solo record is coming out this November. The JAG, Lucille Furs; Low Cut Connie, The Yeah Tones; Sara Rachele, Ron Gallo; Mojave Nomads and Loud Mountains are all buddies that make music I really believe in. 

sarah.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Sara Rachele

What tour dates do you have coming up?

This huge show in Nashville is tomorrow night (20th October), and then, I’m headed down to my home state of Florida (and around Georgia, too!) for some dates over the holiday season - including a few Sofar Sounds events and an opening slot for John Prine in my hometown! 

All dates are kept up-with on www.facebook.com/kimloganmusic!

Will you be coming to the U.K. soon?

I toured to the U.K. three times in the last year so I definitely think I will be returning in the near-future. I’m scheming a plan right now: to ride out my full allowance - of ninety days’ time - overseas with a massive solo, AND full band tour, of the U.K./E.U. in spring. 

I can imagine your show would be quite an extravaganza! What could one expect if they came to our one your shows?!

Basically, a Rock and Roll Opera...

There are so many variety arts in the background of all of my band members and collaborators - and I definitely run the thing like a mixture of an Opera diva and a circus ringleader. It’s interdisciplinary, it’s multimedia: it’s weird and sexy; loud and really fun. 

Come see us!

kim3.jpeg

If you could select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

I think Back to Black by Amy Winehouse; Elephant by The White Stripes and Exile on Main Street by The Rolling Stones 

That’s my desert island list - and I’m sticking to it. 

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Stop looking for a record deal. Get help from label services people who believe in you and help you on a case-by-case basis. Don’t sign away the art you extracted from your brain. It’s precious.

The music business is a free-for-all right now - and just do ‘you’ in the best way you can…

Christmas is not too far away. Do you have plans already or will you be busy working?

I’ll be hiding in my hometown in Florida, like I always do.

It’s a surreal Christmas down there; resting somewhere around eighty-five/ninety-degrees-Fahrenheit with all the oranges and grapefruits ripe on the trees. Christmas, to me, means the beach; mimosas and time to myself - away from the world to write and sleep.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that). 

I’ve been obsessed with the song Love Me Forever by The Black Angels for a long time. (Go ahead and give it to 'em). 

_________

Follow Kim Logan

kim4.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Nicola Hardman

INTERVIEW:

hard.jpg

 PHOTO CREDIT: Richard Taylor 

Nicola Hardman

________

IT has been a while since I have featured…

songs.jpg

an artist from Liverpool. Nicola Hardman tells me about the fantastic new music coming from the city; back-story regarding the songs Little Fish and Just Human; the artists she was raised on – and why she decided to release a double A-side. I ask her about the albums that mean most to her; what she would say to any new artists emerging – and the tour dates we can all look forward to.

Hardman talks about her creative process and how her music has changed in the last couple of years; why Just Human’s lyrics were penned in two parts – and whether we can expect a music video (or two) given the release of new material.

________

Hi, Nicola. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi, thanks for asking. It’s been a total bag of mixed emotions - mainly excitement, stress and lots of honey, lemon - and herbal tea to keep the voice soothed!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m a Liverpool-based musician, of sorts. I play the piano and sing songs I write. I do play some covers too - but I’m mainly interested in writing music and performance.

Tell me the stories behind the songs Just Human and Little Fish…

These are two very different songs of mine I have released this month (on 14th).

Just Human is a new political track which I wrote in the wake of Brexit and shares my concern for the future - not just of the U.K. but for the mentality and idea that ‘nationalism’ may becoming something that is causing so much hatred, generally.

Little Fish is an original re-release which featured on my debut album, Full Beans, in 2015. It is a theatrical and experimental track with various imagery and messages.

Is it true the words/music for Just Human was written in two separate parts?

Yes! I had written the hook/music on the piano a good few years ago and exhibited it in a short film of mine. The music, itself, fitted with the emotions of the short film scene - but it wasn't until the ‘Brexit’ circumstances that I wrote the words to the song - and then realised that they were the words I had been waiting for to fit my song.

This is not something that usually happens when I write songs at all - so I couldn't be happier the two found each other.

singles.jpg

What was the reason behind launching a double A-side?

When I released Full Beans, it was the only option for me, mentally, at the time. I did not want to release a single, first, as the build-up to the album was extremely cathartic for me - and it was necessary to have an album at that time. As my career has progressed, I have discovered myself more as an artist and really homed in on my sound as the type of performer that I am with my keys and vocals.

As I have been performing in this way for the last two years, I wanted to release my new song Just Human as a single in my solo style - and I had always known that Little Fish would be released as my first single outside of the album.

So, I just decided that it would be both fun and exciting to have a double-launch as my Little Fish song has become known and supported throughout my career.

Do you plan on releasing videos for either/both songs?

As a matter of fact, yes!

I’m working on one as we speak but, for now, it is a little secret to be excited about sharing!

full.jpg

 Last year was a busy and memorable one for you. How has this year been? Do you have any particular standouts?

I knew this year would be a great one - no matter what level of ‘great’ that meant to me - because I knew that I would be working very hard to release the singles. For me, starting the year with the N.Y.E. party at the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic alongside my friend and peer Ian Prowse (who had been so kind in giving me the opportunity after me bugging him to play regularly at his Monday nightclubs at The Cavern), was a cool start.

I really worked hard to ensure some festival performances, too, and getting shortlisted to play at Threshold festival - supporting the great Kalandra - was thanks to Liverpool Acoustic. That was an immense gig! It was really exciting to be featured on MADE in Liverpool TV - and my song, Little Fish, got to number-two on an unsigned artists music chart too - which has all been wonderful experiences and confidence building material.

Who are the artists you grew you listening to? Give me an idea of the musicians you count as influences…

Weirdly, I was a bit of a musically-sheltered child, to be honest with you, as we didn’t have MTV or any music channels like that in my family! So, I had to depend on other people’s music such as friends and family - and it wasn’t until I was about sixteen that I got a hold of my friends’ music channels at their house when I stayed over - and started playing music with other people.

Some of my very first influences were Alanis Morissette, the Red Hot Chili Peppers; Sting, Fleetwood Mac; The Rolling Stones, The Beatles; Radiohead and Michael Jackson! After this, I then found a plethora of various artists to fall in love with - and the list is endless.

I love so many types of music.

back.jpg

Liverpool is your base. Is it quite an active city - and what is it like recording and gigging there?

It’s very active: especially now, more than ever. Having only really properly moved back to the area three years ago, I’ve never known it to be more receptive to live music, especially. Yes, there are circles and cliques - and you still hear people churning out Beatles covers in every corner of Mathew Street – but, if you look, there are more open mic. nights than ever. I feel we are seeing more opportunities for original artists to do their thing and share their music with a more vibrant and supportive network of artists.

It’s really great when you realise that people putting on these nights actually want to hear original music more than covers - and some of them still pay you for it!

rach.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Rachael Jean Harris

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

In Liverpool? I’m lucky because I actually got the opportunity (through being in the scene a lot) to host one of those open mic. nights I was talking about; so I have been able to meet quite a few brilliant local musicians and singer-songwriters. My night is strictly for female performers - called We Want Women - hosted in Lennon’s Bar. I’ve met so many wonderful artists for various reasons; artists like the ones who supported me at my launch: Rachael Jean Harris, Vanessa Murray - and others such as Camilla Sky, Maddie Stenberg; Sara Wolff are all excellent.

sara.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Sara Wolff/PHOTO CREDIT: Alex Stephens

Some other artists on the Liverpool scene who challenge and push boundaries like Jamie Clague, Faniel Dord and Jon Coley have been intensely interesting to encounter.

I’ve been taken away with intrigue in the music of bands like Lilium, OVVLS; Three from Above, Acadian Driftwood and, more recently, Lunacorona.

It sounds like I just love everyone, but sincerely, there are so many talented musicians out there…and that’s just Liverpool!

lillium.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Lilium/PHOTO CREDIT: Rebecka Slatter Photography

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we catch you play?

So; here’s my confirmed list so far!

Sat 21st Oct – Northwich – House of Quirk

Fri 10th Nov - Liverpool - The Pilgrim

Friday 1st December – Liverpool – The Epstein Theatre

Sat 2nd Dec – London – Maddens (East Finchley)

pian.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew Lally Photography

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

This is super-hard (and mean) to only give me three -  so I’ve gone for initial finds!

Alanis Morissette - Jagged Little Pill

One of the first albums I listened to that really spoke to me on a personal level which I could understand and make sense of - also, one of the few strong female artists to inspire me.

I love the honesty contrasted with the metaphorical scenes she creates - as well as just pure brilliance in her songwriting.

Radiohead - The Bends

As for (undoubtedly so many people) this album from Radiohead just hits every single emotion - and plays it over and over until there is no more left until you reach the end of the album…and then immediately have to put it back on. I adore this band and they were one of the first (bands) I really felt were performing those songs for their listeners to engage with and share in.

What I love about the album is the perfect combination of small and personal with huge and evocative.

AFI - Sing the Sorrow

This album really is one of AFI’s best pieces of work. I don’t love everything they have offered but this album is an exception-and-a-half. I love the enveloping darkness and acceptance of sadness (or frustration) in this album.

The songs are crafted beautifully and transported me to a dark place of support through some hard times.

HANDS.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

1.  Have the confidence. You don’t think you have to write your songs and get out and share them because, if you weren’t so reserved about it, then you probably wouldn’t be as good (as you probably are).

2.  Be great at what you do and own it: don’t copycat or follow what someone tells you is the ‘new sound’.

3.  Do it because you want and need to…

ncik.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Richard Taylor

Christmas is not too far away. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I am going to be performing on Xmas Eve, but then, I’m lucky to be taking some time to see my loved ones and rest this year.

Do you have any goals for 2018? What do you hope to achieve in the coming year?

I have a number of mind-brews that I’d like to do: one will be the release of at least one music video and the rest will happen with the strength of intention. I know that I want to tour further afield next year - and write, write, write!

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Excellent. After the advice you just asked me to give about musicians coming through now, I thought of a gorgeous Cat Stevens song called If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out - which always makes me smile.

I’d love for everyone to listen to that and feel really good and inspired. Thank you!

_________

Follow Nicola Harman

PPAPAPA.jpg

INTERVIEW: The LaFontaines

INTERVIEW: 

wall.jpeg

 The LaFontaines

________

IN a world of dilutes and flukes (sounding like Dizzee Rascal, here)…

cover.jpeg

it is refreshing encountering a band like The LaFontaines. Kerr (from the band) speaks to me about their new work – Too Late was released yesterday; Common Problem was already out – and what it was like playing the legendary Barrowlands. I ask Kerr about the band’s new album, Common Problems (it is out 27th October), and how they have progressed as a unit – and what Glasgow is like as their muse and home.

He talks about the future of the band and the inspiration behind their music; the great venues they have played this year; the music they are all into – offering some unique advice for artists emerging onto the scene…

________

Hi, guys. How are you? How has your week been?

Kerr: Hi. It’s just Kerr answering this - but I would imagine that we are, collectively, fine. My week, on a personal level, has been a solid six-out-of-ten. Still got a full bill of health and I’m no less skint than I was last week – result.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

We are The LaFontaines and we come from the very beautiful, but equally dark, town of Motherwell. We’re all local boys from roughly the same area who happened to have an interest in music – albeit, at vastly different ends of the spectrum. Myself and Darren (the guitarist) were the main instigators in getting the ball rolling, I suppose: the other two were just daft enough to jump on-board.

You are signed to Wolf at the Door Records. How important is that for you guys? What is it like being on the label?

Not that important: nothing has changed other than the fact we get to put a cool wee Wolf symbol on the back of the album artwork.

We still move, act and shake like the independent titans we are.

How did it feel selling out Barrowlands so early in your career?! That must have been incredible, surely?!

The Barras is, hands-down, the best venue in the U.K.! Selling that place out on our last headline run was the pivotal moment of our debut album, for me. It validated everything we had been building up to over the years as a band. Going from King Tuts’ to Classic Grand; to selling out the O2 ABC then, finally, the Barrowlands was something special.

That’s why it was so important that we went there again on this run - there’s just something about that room, man!

longue.jpeg

Your debut album got into the top-ten in Scotland. Common Problems is your new album. Have you made any changes to your sound for this one?

This record is probably a lot darker.

CLASS, we had all our lives to write and, up to that point, everything was pretty new and exciting. This time, we’ve seen a lot more of the world as a band; we’ve toured pretty much everywhere you can go, and the world is in a pretty shaky state at the moment. So, lyrically, there are a lot of changes. Musically, because we already have a pretty unique sound: I’d say it’s just more of the same.

Just some good f*ckin’ tunes, man.

chaps.jpeg

 PHOTO CREDIT: Ryan Johnston

What themes and topics inspired the songwriting throughout?

Life!

I don’t understand how, in 2017, people are still writing about being in the club. There is so much f*kin’ chaos going on that, surely, somebody should take a weekend off from getting ‘turned up’. Na; each to their own and all that, but I’d say I am inspired by what I see and live through. So, everything is pretty socially-conscious and currently pretty dark…with some humour to soften the blow.

Can we expect any singles from the record do you think?

Yeah. We have just dropped Common Problem - and Too Late comes out Friday 20th Oct. I encourage everyone to illegally download them now.

blurry.jpeg

So far, you guys have already played some great gigs and created memories. What has been the fondest moment for each of you?

By far, the best place we’ve been as a band has been Morocco.

We went to film a video for our track, King, in the Sahara Desert and it was unbelievable. Only spent the one day and night in the actual desert - and the rest of the time was spent driving about seeing the most unreal scenery - the snow-capped ruggedness of the Atlas Mountains to the manic streets of Marrakesh. It was a total culture-shock. We were there for one week and it was never boring at any point. I loved the people and all the different types of music I was exposed to over there.

Ten-out-of-ten.

spray.jpeg

Glasgow is where the band is based. How important is the city and its people to your music?

It’s everything.

We’ve been to a lot of beautiful places, met some amazing people from all different backgrounds and cultures; but still, my favourite city in the world is Glasgow. It just feels like home. I love the folk and I don’t even mind the utterly s*ite weather: it makes the four days of summer that much sweeter.

Which artists all inspired you when you were growing up? Do you come from musical backgrounds?

As a band, I'd say we draw from all our individual preferences - rather than a collective interest in one type of music. Darren is all about his synths; Jamie is the Soul man; John loves a bit of Pop...and I listen, exclusively, to Nickelback.

Do you have any future gigs planned? Where can we catch you play?

We are going on a U.K. headline tour this November - Leeds, Cardiff; Manchester, Milton Keynes; Glasgow, Newcastle; Birmingham, London; Sheffield and Nottingham.

It would be really nice if you came and seen us play.

ander.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Anderson.Paak

Who are the new artists you suggest we check out?

Anderson.Paak. We toured together throughout Europe and the U.K. He is, by far, the coolest human I’ve ever met.

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

“The music business is a cruel and shallow money-trench; a long, plastic hallway where thieves and pimps run free - and good men die like dogs. There's also a negative side...” If that quote appeals to you, get involved.

If not, stick in at school, kids.

boys.jpeg

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

There are rumours that we’ll be playing the New Year’s celebrations in Edinburgh this year – but those could just be vicious rumours. Apart from that, I am going play computer games for two weeks-straight and not feel guilty about it once.

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Kerr: Francis and The Lights (ft. Chance the Rapper) - May I Have This Dance

The others will be more than happy with your selections, I imagine.

_________

Follow The LaFontaines

yellow.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Gabriela Francesca

INTERVIEW:

pink2.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: Elena Kulikova  

Gabriela Francesca

________

LOTS of colour and energy is what one…

black.jpeg

experiences when they hear and see Gabriela Francesca. I ask the U.S. artist about her new single, Blah Blah Blah, and whether there is a personal derivation. She tells me about its creation and whether she has any plans regarding a visit to the U.K. In addition; I wanted to find out whether her Mexican heritage plays into her music and how she has developed as an artist – and which musicians have helped shape her.

Gabriela Francesca talks about her upcoming material and how she will be rounding off this year; why she is keen to head to Big Bear – and what she would say to any hungry young musicians coming through.

________

Hi, Gabriela. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey there. I’m fantastic, thanks! It’s been great.

I’ve been getting in the Halloween mood, but L.A. is still nice and warm…so I had a gorgeous beach-day on Sunday.

It’s a nice balance!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m Gabriela Francesca. I’m a singer and songwriter working and living in Los Angeles. 

I’ve heard your new single, Blah Blah Blah, and it is pretty hot! Can you tell me the story behind it?

Thank you; I appreciate it!

Blah Blah Blah was written after hearing some interesting rumors about myself through the grapevine. I’ve always kept my head out of and above gossip, but it got a little ridiculous, so I decided to entertain the trash-talkers and write a song! I wanted to write a theme for anybody who’s been gossiped about or picked on - to remind them that they are so above the hate and that at the root of it - those people are so bored with their own lives that they have to seek excitement in someone else’s.

It has a summer-time vibe but seems to convey deeper messages. That is quite a hard balance to strike. Was it an easy track together and what was it like working with (producer) GEO?

I feel like, with the cheery Disco vibe, we were able to include really hard-hitting and honest lyrics without making it a sob-story - or a song about being salty. It’s more of a song where I’m poking fun at people who gossip about me - and telling them I see through them - that I know they’re my biggest fans! It was actually a very easy song to write. It was something that was on my mind when I came into the writing session with GEO and co-writer April Bender.

We discussed it and had a good chat about the general frustrations of the rumor-mill; decided that a Disco vibe would fit really well - and then we just got to work! It was a blast and came together really smoothly.

When listening to the song; I had thoughts of gossiping and back-stabbing; the sunshine of L.A. and blowing off those who perpetrate rumours. Did you have a clear storyline when writing? What was it like writing with April Bender?

You nailed it!

We definitely had a scenario in mind when we wrote it. I’m a very visual learner and writer, so it always helps for me to imagine scenes; almost like in a music video. I could just imagine girls sitting down at brunch somewhere very Instagram-able; drinking their mimosas and spewing gossip. That’s what happens when you have nothing going on in your life: too much time on your hands and daddy’s credit card set loose in Los Angeles!

Trust me...those people are everywhere.

Gossip always gets back around to whoever started it, and, that’s another message I wanted to share in the song: people who gossip really hate to be recognized. They’re not comfortable with confrontation or being called on their actions (that’s why they do everything behind people’s backs); so it was really a blast to create this whole scenario of me calling out the "Bitches who brunch". April is an excellent writer and just all around great person, and we’d written together before, so it was a total blast. We’re always on the same page - and I absolutely love what she brings to the table.

She’s such a pleasure to work with. 

arch.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: Jon Adjahoe

This will be your third single. I guess, it’s fair to say, personal relationships and experiences go into your music – they are not cliché and like anything else. Is it easy tailoring common themes and making it very much your own?

What’s funny is, I usually am worried that some of my themes or topics are TOO personal to me - and will not resonate with a larger audience. They’re all from real-life experiences and feelings I’ve had, real moments, and, when I first start to write a song, I often worry whether it will be relatable to anyone but me.

As the song comes together, I realize that my sentiments and stories are not just my own: they’re shared commonly by many, many people and can fit many scenarios, even if they seem different than mine. My first single of the year, Hallucinate, was written about a very specific relationship in which I felt I had been abandoned and left high and dry - and as the song unfolded, I realize it kind of became a theme for anybody who’s been ‘ghosted’, or who has mourned an unfinished relationship.

I think, as long as writers write from a place of truth - instead of trying to concoct a story that people will think is ‘cool’ but has no truth behind it - there will always be someone who resonates. A songwriting mentor I had always said: “Don’t write about a cake you haven’t tasted”. Truth always comes through in songs to an audience.

Human experience is not a solitary thing: we, as human beings, share so much more than we think...

You are on a roll. Can we expect an E.P. later in the year/next, perhaps?

I think, for now, I’m focusing on putting out singles.

I have a ton of songs ready to go and so much in-the-works; so, I think, next year, I’d be open to putting out an E.P. with a mix of new and released songs - just to have a body of work that all gels together. Right now, however, each single is a special individual story and world - and, so, I’m enjoying crafting and releasing each record one by one. 

jacket.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Elena Kulikova

As a first-generation Mexican-America, raised in Chicago – how much of your family background and heritage informs your music and sounds? What is it like working and recording in L.A.?

I grew up with a ton of Latin music so, although I don’t particularly make Latin music or Latin pop, Latin rhythms and rhythmic influence is definitely present in my music. I always love to incorporate them whenever I can. Overall, I just grew up with an appreciation for other cultures different to my own - and I think that openness and appreciation is there whenever I search for new inspiration for my music (or new directions to explore). 

Working and recording in L.A. has been great for me. I’ve always appreciated a good change of scenery and L.A. has presented a lot of new possibilities for collaboration and opportunity. 

Give me a sense of the music you grew up listening to. Which artists did you fall for at a young age?

In my household, I grew up listening to a lot of 1970s songwriters; Latin music, Country music and 1950s Pop music: James Taylor, Jim Croce; Harry Chapin, Simon and Garfunkel; Celia Cruz, the Gipsy Kings; Shania Twain, Elvis Presley; The Beatles, Connie Francis; Paul Anka…artists I still love to this day.

My brother, Justin, however, gave me my first two C.D.s when I was ten-years old: Songs About Jane by Maroon 5 and X&Y by Coldplay. That’s when I truly knew what it felt like to fall in love with a band or artist: to feel like they were speaking straight to you through the music. I must’ve listened to those two C.D.s, on-repeat, for two-years-straight. 

pink.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: Elena Kulikova  

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we all catch you play?

Right now, I’m very focused on putting out new music for people to hear...

The issue of playing shows without a lot of music released is, if you play a great song, people are going to ask where they can hear it or buy it and if it’s not released - that’s kind of the end of their relationship with your music. Hopefully, this summer, I can start looking at tour dates! I’d love to play some shows in L.A. later this winter or in the spring - because the shows I have played out here have been a blast. 

Does the U.K. feature in your plans? What do you think of the artists over here?

Absolutely! I am a traveler at heart.

I was in the U.K. for two weeks last winter exploring with my best friend and we had the time of our lives. I’d love to come back to play music and explore the scene. Some of my favorite artists are from the U.K. (Coldplay, Amy Winehouse) so my opinion of U.K. artists is very high!

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

X&Y by Coldplay

The Best of Gipsy Kings by the Gipsy Kings

The Boy Who Knew Too Much by MIKA

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

We’re all in the same boat! It’s not always easy to stay inspired or motivated but we’re in it for the love and all we can do is shoot for the moon: we owe it to ourselves and to our art. Remember why you chose music in the first place. Remember, somebody out there NEEDS your work: it deserves a chance to touch someone. 

I’d also say that it’s important to dismiss comparisons to others. One thing that has really helped me has been making sure I have time away from work and the music industry as a whole. Find things that make your inner-child sing; find ways to be selfless and help others and find ways to escape. Changes of scenery and new experiences will always feed your creativity.

Artists are storytellers - and you can never have too many stories to tell.

outdoors.jpeg

PHOTO CREDIT: Jon Adjahoe

Do you get much chance to chill away from music? What do you do in your free time?

I do, absolutely.

Consciously stepping away from music and my work helps me to replenish creativity and find inspiration. I am an avid yogi and I also love to dance. I take samba lessons twice a week. I also study French privately with a teacher. I’ve been vegan for nearly half-a-year now, so I love exploring new restaurants in the area and trying out new recipes in my own kitchen. Of course, in L.A., we have some beautiful scenery; so I do love a good hike or beach day - but my favorite way to escape is to drive a few hours out of L.A. into the San Bernardino mountains and (spend) some time in Big Bear: one of my favorite little towns on Earth.

Who knew I was a mountain girl?

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

Speaking of Big Bear, my family and I have some plans to spend some at a cabin in the mountains for the holidays.

I guess I’ll get a white Christmas right here in Southern California! I’ll, hopefully, have some music lined up for before and after the holidays for release - so I can take some time to enjoy family company during the actual holidays. I figure everybody else will be doing that too - and focused on celebration - so that’s another reason I’ll probably refrain from releasing music or performing those weeks. 

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not yours as I'll do that).

I Got a Name by Jim Croce.

I listen to this song every time I drive up to Big Bear so, recently, I’ve been playing it every morning while I walk my dog. It’s a song I’ve loved since I was very young - so it really helps me start my day with a lot of love and warm positivity. 

_________

Follow Gabriela Francesca

banner.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Beth McCarthy

INTERVIEW:

main.jpg

Beth McCarthy

________

HER new single is fresh off the press…

single.jpg

so it is the perfect time to speak with Beth McCarthy. She tells me about her new single, Mr & Mrs Brown, and why Cottingham Folk Festival was a highlight of the year. I learn more about McCarthy’s musical past and how whether there will be an E.P. arriving soon. She tells me about some of the artists/albums that have inspired her and what she has planned for later in the year.

I find out about upcoming gigs and what it was like appearing on The Voice; what the music scene is like in Yorkshire (where she is from); how she got into music – and whether her parents’ tastes influenced her own direction/sound.

________

Hi, Beth. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi! I’m really well, thanks. My week has been a little crazy. I’m over in the U.S. playing shows in Chicago and Florida - so not your average week!

Exciting, though…

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

My name is Beth McCarthy and I’m a singer/songwriter from York. I’ve been singing and…well, songwriting with my acoustic guitar (who is called ‘Jeff’, in case you wondered) for seven years now. I was a contestant on The Voice U.K. in 2014 as part of Team Ricky Wilson (Kaiser Chiefs) - and have, since, been doing all I can to make this crazy music dream a reality!

So far, I think it’s going pretty well. 

Tell me more about the single, Mr & Mrs Brown. What is the story behind it?

Back in February 2017, my big sister got married...

Being the musical maid-of-honour; it became my job to write her first dance for her (the pressure of that, by the way, was HORRENDOUS). I asked my sister and her future-husband to write a letter to each other that they would read after the wedding - and wrote this song from those letters. I wanted it to be personal to them: not just another love song. So, Mr & Mrs Brown is the story of my sister and her husband!

The title is what they are now called - as man-and-wife…original, I know.

Listening to the song and it captivates me with its loving and passionate vocal. There is something soft and sensual about it. Has it taken a lot of hard work creating a voice that carries so many emotions?

That’s very kind of you! I’d say it’s taken a while for me to really get to know my voice and how to use it. I’ve never had the most technically brilliant voice, or a big ‘diva’ voice, and I think a pivotal moment for me was when I stopped trying to compete with those kinds of voices and started to appreciate what I could do with my own!

It’s easy to pick apart the imperfections and cracks in a vocal but they’re what make it real - I’d choose making somebody feel something with my voice than impressing them with it any day.

Can we expect any more material later in the year? Are you planning an E.P. or album?

I’m touring the U.K. in November, so you can definitely expect another single release around then. After that, I’m making big plans for 2018. I don’t want to say too much about what’s to come but, right now, is the most excited I’ve ever been about my music so...

Keep a look out!

shot2.jpg

It seems the Cottingham Folk Festival was a year-defining highlight for you. What was it about that gig that stuck in your heart?

There are some shows that remind you what you’re doing all of this for - and that was one of them.

The gig was a support slot for Lucy Spraggan - who is a truly incredible artist and songwriter - and I really have to give credit to her because she has created the most amazing fan-base. Everyone in that room was there to listen and support anyone who stepped on the stage; not just Lucy.

It’s like the whole audience was rooting for you before you’d even started singing and that’s one of the best feelings.

I guess appearing on The Voice would have been a highlight, too? How important was that experience with regards your ambition and drive?

The Voice is definitely a highlight.

It’s a strange experience as it really doesn’t compare to anything else - but it was a huge positive for me.  It gave me a great platform to build from; introduced me to some great people and taught me a lot about the industry - the good and the bad parts! Thing is, a lot of people think that when you go on a show like that, you’ve made it - that you come off and you’re given management/record deal - and everything is worked out for you - but that really isn't the case.

It’s almost like you’re sky-rocketed up into success that you’ve never had before and then, as soon as you’re out of the competition, you’re left to figure out where to go next - and most of the time, the only way is down. It taught me a lot about staying motivated and, actually, how important it is to love what you do - because it’s HARD to keep going sometimes!

But, if you continue to love what you do and enjoy the journey you’re on… you really can’t fail.

tour.jpg

What has this year been like? It seems like you have been pretty hectic…

Hectic is probably a good word to use! Hectic but amazing.

I started the year with a number–two single in the iTunes Singer-Songwriter Chart - which was just insane. I, then, played a U.K. tour and have been out to the U.S.A. twice - to play shows in Chicago and Florida. I started working with Ont’ Sofa as my management, who have already made such an impact on my life, and I’m so excited for what we have to come.

All the while, I’ve been writing my heart out into a load of new songs that I really am so proud of. So…this year has been amazing: but next year will be even better!

shot.jpg

Talk to me about how you got into music? Was there an artist that inspired you heavily?

I actually got into music because I wanted to perform!

I’ve loved being on stage since I was young and went through all sorts of outlets of performance - from acting to musical theatre; to being in a crazy Rock band as a pre-teen. I ended up settling on singing and writing with an acoustic guitar (a little mellower than electric guitars and heavy drums!) and went straight into playing gigs at thirteen.

I can’t really pinpoint a particular artist that made me want to do what I do: I think I was always more inspired by great performers than I was music. I loved people like Elvis Presley, Michael Jackson and Freddie Mercury - who were all incredible frontmen - so I guess it goes back to that love of performance and (just) wanting to get up in front of people!

Was there a lot of music in the house as a child? Did your parents expose you to a lot of music?

My dad has always been really into Rock music so I grew up listening to AC/DC, Meatloaf; Deep Purple and Queen. My sister always loved acting, so I think I got into doing shows and performances because of her. Other than that; I wouldn't say we had a hugely musical household. My parents have always been super-supportive of my music, though, and come to almost all of my gigs.

I think I got them into music rather than the other way round!

You are based in Yorkshire. It seems a lot of our most promising artists come from the county. Is there something in the Yorkshire water, do you think?

Yeah - or maybe it’s in the Yorkshire puddings…

another.jpg

What are you doing this Christmas? Do you visit family or have other plans? Sorry to bring it up…but have you made plans?

I always take Christmas off to spend time with family.

There’s such a huge clan of us that it takes the whole holiday just to see everyone! It’ll also be the first Christmas with my new puppy - so I think I’ll be spending most of my time snuggled with him on the sofa watching Love Actually!

tal.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Talmont/PHOTO CREDIT: Harvey Pearson

Who are the new artists you suggest we check out?

I know so many talented people that – but I could be here all day listing them!

You should definitely look out for Scott Quinn, Isaac Tyler; Talmont and Ella Grace - they’re all part of the Ont’ Sofa team and have some really exciting things coming up. Also, a good friend of mine, Antonio Lulic, is about to drop an E.P. - so keep an eye out for him, too.

ella.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Just love what you do; be yourself and don’t give up. Also; let yourself be happy: life is better that way.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

I’ll say Here We Are Again by Ella Grace - because it’s her new single and it’s BEAUTIFUL (so, people should hear it)

__________

Follow Beth McCarthy

shot3.jpg

INTERVIEW: LEXIS

INTERVIEW: 

main.jpg

 LEXIS

________

DRAWING from her love of Eastern and Western music…

single.png

LEXIS is someone who fuses a blend of sounds and sensations into the pot. Back to the Start is lo-fi and hushed and beckons the listener in. Lexis discusses her Persian background and the variety of music that has experience and the D.N.A. that goes into her own music. I learn more about how LEXIS almost became a doctor and decided to pursue music; how the 1970s and influential and pivotal in regards her creative drive and tastes – and the music she grew up on.

LEXIS looks ahead to new music and gigs; I ask whether mainstream music lacks real spark and imagination – she talks about albums like Rumours and how they have influenced her.

________

Hi, Lexis. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m good, thanks. I’ve had a great week releasing the single and I also moved out of my flat - so it’s been pretty busy.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m LEXIS. I’m a singer-songwriter from Solihull, near Birmingham.

Tell me a bit about Back to the Start. How did the single come together and what inspired it?

Back to the Start is a track I worked on with a Dutch producer called Coenraad Dingemans. It’s one of four tracks we recorded for my forthcoming E.P. The song reflects on a personal experience of a relationship growing apart - and I wanted it to deliver a message of hope that things could go back to a time when things were calmer and more straightforward.

I was lucky to work with some very talented musicians and old friends including Rikki Glover and David Klinke on Guitar; Philippe Clegg on Bass Guitar; Simeon Rodgers on Drums and Zartosht Safari playing the Persian Ney - which is a type of flute.

It was a really fun record to make...

The song has a 1970s sound and some Persian elements. Did it seem natural blending those elements into the song? What is it about the 1970s, especially, that appeals?

I think the 1970s was such an inspirational decade for modern music.

I love how sugary Pop artists shared the charts with artists like Fleetwood Mac and Bob Marley. My parents moved to the U.K. in the 1970s and I was lucky enough to listen to vinyl records they had kept hold of from that era - so it felt really natural blending the different elements into the song.

You have Persian roots and were born in Solihull in the 1980s. What was your upbringing like and what was it like growing up in the area?

I had a pretty normal upbringing. I loved my childhood and I’ve got so many great memories growing up in the area.

new.jpg

How much of your heritage and parents’ D.N.A. go into your music, would you say?

I feel very British and I identify a lot more with Western music than Persian music. However, the Eastern blend makes the record more true to me and distinctive. 

Did you grow up in a musical household? Typically, what type of music/albums would you be listening to?

My brother and I were really musical. I played piano and guitar and he played piano and violin; so there was always music being played at home. My parents had this vinyl record player in their kitchen and a large collection of vinyl records. I remember; I would play Queen and Fleetwood Mac o-repeat when they were out.

They also had some traditional Persian music - which I remember them listening to.

Is it true you almost became a doctor? What compelled the decision to pursue music instead?!

So, I actually completed my medical training but I’ve always had a passion for music - and I couldn’t live without it! I won a songwriting competition whilst doing my medical degree in Birmingham - which led to me to move to London to study music and songwriting.

DL9XCAmWsAA5qUD.png

You studied at the Institute of Contemporary Music Performance in London. How important was your time there and what did it feel like being surrounded by so many like-minded artists?

It was a hugely influential and poignant time for me.

I made friends for life and met so many talented musicians; some of whom have helped me put together my forthcoming E.P. I don’t think I would be where I am now if it wasn’t for that experience and meeting so many talented and inspiring people.

Can we expect an E.P. very soon? Can you reveal anything about the titles and stories on the E.P.?

My E.P. is ready to go so keep your ears and eyes peeled. The stories reflect on personal experiences and my roots - and you’ll hear Persian and string instruments.

I can’t wait for people to hear it.

car.jpg

Your music has a unique edge and is a lot more ambitious than what is out there. Do you think the mainstream lacks real character – or are you a fan of the artists playing at the moment?

Thank you. I think there are a lot of talented artists in the mainstream who are also great musicians and songwriters. There will always be trends in music but it’s really challenging for independent artists to compete with the mainstream acts who are backed by big record labels.

Having said that, I believe there’s always space for something new and different to come along!

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we all catch you play?

I hope to arrange some dates in the run-up to the E.P. launch - so watch this space.

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Fleetwood Mac’s – Rumours is a timeless masterpiece and reminds me of my childhood

I feel that Oasis’ Definitely Maybe defined the Britpop era and growing up in the 1990s

Laura Marling’s Alas, I Cannot Swim is a beautiful acoustic Folk album which really inspired me to get into songwriting

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Be yourself, have fun. Never give up and support fellow artists.

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I’ve not made any plans yet but I’d like to focus on more songwriting over the winter months (and releasing my E.P.).

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Saharan King is a cool record from an unsigned Birmingham band called Lycio

_________

Follow LEXIS

snap.jpg

INTERVIEW: Amber Donoso

INTERVIEW:

amber.jpeg

 Amber Donoso

________

AS she has roots in Chile…

amber2.jpeg

I ask Amber Donoso about her heritage and how she is acclimatising to the London lifestyle. She tells me about the new single, Get Off, and the inspiration behind it. I ask her about upcoming material and how self-sufficiency is a mantra of hers – and the musicians who have made an impact on her. I learn more about Amber Donoso’s fashion modelling and how she blends style and music; what the remainder of 2017 has in store; the albums that mean most to her – and where we can catch her perform in the coming weeks/months.

________

Hi, Amber. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m very well, thank you. How are you? My week has been fantastic so far, thank you.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

Yes. My name is Amber Donoso. I’m a singer/songwriter.

amber3.jpeg

Get Off is your new single. What can you reveal about its title and story?

Get Off is about my relationship with an ex-boyfriend. The theme of the song is being unable to move on from someone you are still in love with. It was important for me when writing the song that there was a clear storyline for people to follow. I wanted people to be able to understand my thought-process in and after the relationship - and how that left me feeling. The song is about love. I’m a big romantic.

There is also a sexual meaning behind the song - which I don’t think needs further explaining. Haha. 

The video was shot in Margate. Did you film it yourself and what was it like to film?

It was amazing! So much fun.

It was a massive video to shoot as we had so many locations and shots to film. I had spent months and months planning for the two days shooting; so the morning of the first day, I took a very deep breath as I knew it would be a very long day. I felt really lucky to have such a wonderful team to work with as they made everything really smooth sailing. My dancers were lovely as was my love interest Keudy. Thankfully, I speak Spanish as Keudy spoke very little English - so that would have been a bit of a challenge trying to communicate on set.

Both Michele Du Verney (my Creative Director) and I directed the video - whilst Chas Appeti was head of D.o.P. 

Is it quite nervous releasing a debut single? How have you been feeling about it?

It’s a wonderful feeling.

It feels surreal to work on something for a year-and-a-half and then release it into the world. It’s been amazing to see what a positive reached everyone had to both the track and video. It’s really humbling. 

amber9.jpeg

You are a model and have promoted fashion across the world. How, would you say, your love of fashion and music interweaves? Is there an inherent connection between style and music?

Modelling, for me, was short-term and my way of financing my music career: music has always been my first love and passion. I love fashion but in a way of using it to express myself. My style is definitely a clear representation of my personality and character. I like to experiment with what I wear and push boundaries of ‘the norm’.

Down the line, I’d definitely like to design my own collections and have my own makeup line. 

You are Chilean-born. What compelled the decision to relocate? What was it like being raised in London?

My parents divorced when I was very young; my mother is English and my father was Chilean - so the move to London was for educational purposes. However, I’d once I moved to London, I’d spend my holidays in Chile with that side of my family. I feel very blessed as I’ve had the best of both worlds: living in London then growing up on a farm in Chile. Nevertheless, growing up here I have always felt London is my home….

I’m a London girl through and through. 

It seems, already, you have confidence and star quality. Are there any artists you idolise and incorporate into your own music?

Thank you; I really appreciate it. For sure, my music has been massively inspired by many of my favourite artists. I absolutely love Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill due to their beautiful songwriting and storytelling - not to mention they’re incredible voices. Gwen Stefani and Madonna are other artists who have inspired me.

amber4.jpeg

It appears you have been raised on a mantra of self-sufficiency. Do you think your success, so far, is a result of your hard work ethic and determination?

Yes. I think if you want something enough you’ll get it.

So far in my life, I would put my successes down to persistence. Sometimes, it may feel like pushing a brick wall but if you love and believe in what you’re doing, you’ll keep pushing until you’re on the other side. I’m a very driven person and I won’t stop until I get to where I am heading. 

Tell me about your music and what sounds you were raised on…

I grew up listening to all genres of music: from Alternative-Rock, dreamy Pop; R&B, Hip-Hop; Reggaeton to Dancehall. So…a lot. My music has been inspired by all of these genres. I feel I get the best out of my music if I’m as well educated as much as I can be. For example, I sing in the style of R&B and Pop, yet I’ll put a hard Hip-Hop beat in my track (or dreamy Pop samples).

It, obviously, really depends on that track I’m making - but these are all things which go through my mind when I’m in the studio. 

amber8.jpeg

Can we see an E.P. or more music in the coming months?

For sure.

All I can say right now is I’ll be releasing my next single early next year. I will say that this is gonna be a BIG track for me. I’m excited for everyone to hear it!

Do you have any tour dates approaching? Where can we see you play?

I’ve just been confirmed to perform at Cuckoo Club (in Mayfair) on 4th November. I’m also looking to perform in Glasgow in the next few weeks. 

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

So many people will probably be shocked by my variety of choices...

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill - Lauryn Hill

This is one of my favourite albums of all time. Lauryn Hill’s vocals, writing and performance on this album is mind-blowing. 

SweetSexySavage – Kehlani

Man, she got a beautiful and sexy voice. I love this album as it has a song for everybody and for every mood you are in. 

The 1975 – The 1975

I’ve been a massive fan of The 1975 for years. I think they’ve bought something fresh to the table. Their first album, The 1975, played a massive part in my teenage years. I’d listen to them ALL THE TIME...and I still do. I love every single track on that album as they range from beautiful, romantic love songs; to sex and heartbreak. 

amber10.jpeg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now? 

PERSISTENCE. Keep pushing.

No one wants what you want more than yourself. Do as much as you can to make your dreams reality; it’s so possible…you just need to work hard and believe in yourself. 

Christmas is approaching. Do you have plans already or will you be busy working?

I was hoping to head over to New York but I think I’ll be occupied working here in London. However, I’m not complaining as I love London around Christmas time…

Winter Wonderland is my jammmm. 

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Like a Prayer - Madonna (that’s one of my favourite songs of all time)

_________

Follow Amber Donoso

amber6.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Big City Cough

INTERVIEW:

hotelsilhouette.JPG

Big City Cough

________

ANOTHER day; another excellent Candian artist…

album cover.jpg

to get my teeth into! I have been learning more about Big City Cough and his new track, Before This There was Everything. He discusses the album, Born at Night, and the standout track from that album; how his parents helped bring a touch of the personal to a particular number – and whether there are upcoming tour dates before the end of the year.

I learn more about Big City Cough’s music tastes and the artists he was raised on; why his week has been a particularly busy one – and a few new artists for everyone to investigate.

________

Hi, Big City Cough. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey! I’m doing well, thanks.

This week has already been pretty bananas, but I’m sitting outside in twenty-degree-centigrade weather in Toronto in mid-October - so I’m pleased as punch.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m Sean Beresford; guitar player and lover of all sounds that are weird. I’ve been playing electric as a sideman with many bands for years but recently taught myself finger-style acoustic and some songs appeared in my hands - so Big City Cough was born.

Tell me about the new single, Before This There Was Everything. What is the song about and how did it all come together?

This song was the first one written while I was trying out finger-style acoustic guitar.

It was the seed that started it all. I guess I was going for a sort of meditative vibe that could snap the listener out of all their preoccupations for a bit (this includes myself). I didn’t know it at the time, but that would become the underlying theme for the record.

Born at Night is your debut album. What as the recording process like? How does it feel having the songs out there?

The initial recordings took place by myself in my living room late at night - with a tiny little mobile recording setup and a few decent mics. It was a totally natural process – no clock to watch or anything. Then, I got some of my good friends to play on the songs and they totally killed it. It was a positive experience all around.

Having the songs out there is really gratifying. I’ve been getting feedback from people I haven’t chatted with in ages; so it’s been really special – and a long time coming! It feels like I’ve been making this record forever. Haha.

standard hotel LA.jpg

Is there a song from the album that stands out as especially personal/striking?

I guess Eventually I’ll Dry Up and You’ll Have to Throw Me Away would fit that criteria.

There was a spot in the song that felt empty to me so I was thinking about what instrument to have in there to sweeten it. Then for some reason, I considered spoken word. Spoken word has never been a go-to for me but I thought I’d give it a chance. Since I’ve never considered myself a lyric-writer, I messaged a friend of mine who is an incredible songwriter and asked her if she would mind penning something. She respectfully declined as she was too busy with her own record. Friends were saying “Why don’t you just write the words yourself?”.

So, one night, I had enjoyed a bottle of wine and put pen to paper and wrote the whole thing in about twenty minutes. It involves two elderly lovers chatting to one another about their mortality because the man is on his death-bed. I got my parents to record the speaking parts and they got pretty choked up doing it; so I figured it was good enough to make it on the record.

Giant redwood.JPG

What are the main themes and stories that inspired the album?

Well, again, it’s an instrumental record…but the main theme is quiet, peaceful night-time reflection, I guess. I recorded most of the bed tracks in the middle of the night by myself. I’m a night-owl and my folks told me recently that I was born at night…so was the record.

Is music a career you felt destined towards when you were younger? Who are your idols, in terms of the artists you grew up listening to?

Yeah. I think music was always gonna be it for me. Somehow I’ve made it work! I grew up listening to Rock ‘n’ Roll, thanks to my dad and older brother. I guess I’ve always had a penchant for the unusual because one of the first bands that really stuck for me was Pink Floyd. Once I started playing music, I got into all sorts of genres. Miles Davis is a favourite.

I guess I gravitate to the boundary-pushers.

Do you have a game-plan for 2018? What are your goals for the coming year?

More shows! I’m doing a November residency at a local club to release the record locally. I’ll be putting together some shows elsewhere starting in January and I already have five or six songs started for the next record.

ryley.jpg

 IN THIS PHOTO: Ryley Walker

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

So many…

William Tyler is terrific.

I’ve been getting into Ryley Walker’s stuff recently; local hero Brendan Canning always has something cool going on.

Nightlands is totally awesome (David from The War on Drugs).

bcc_poster_print.jpg

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we catch you play?

Every Tuesday in November at the Dakota Tavern here in Toronto, from 6-9 P.M. A different awesome opening act for each one - and a band playing with me.

J anuary dates in parts/elsewhere T.B.A.

Do you have any plans regarding playing the U.K.? Have you ever visited us before?

Haven’t fully hatched the game-plan for 2018 yet...

I have visited the U.K. before. I have roots there so it’s near and dear to my heart - particularly the cask ales.

Tofino B&W.JPG

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Wow! Tough one.

Let’s start with the earliest influence: Pink Floyd’s - Dark Side of the Moon

I got into that album as a kid, via my dad. I guess I was probably just listening to whatever was fed to me on the radio at the time; so, this one really expanded the universe of possibility for me from a very young age.

Miles Davis - In a Silent Way

I enjoy just about every phase of Miles’ career but the weird fusion stuff is totally from Mars and I love it. This one evokes that peaceful, night-time listening thing I was talking about before; so let’s go with it.

Jim O’Rourke - Bad Timing

This record was a big influence on what I was going for on Born at Night: traditional acoustic guitar melodies with a generous serving of weird. Sublime.

BCCface HI REZ.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Follow your heart…always.

Don’t be swayed into doing anything that doesn’t follow your vision of your art. Don’t give up. This has all been said before, and it sounds corny, but it all comes back to this every time.

Christmas is not too far away. Do you have plans already or will you be busy working?

Visiting family and keeping warm.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

How about Highway Anxiety by William Tyler

Thanks!

_________

Follow Big City Cough

40 red_yellow_green.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Jennifer Ann

INTERVIEW:

jen3.jpeg

 Jennifer Ann

________

THE excellent Jennifer Ann is a Minnesota-born…

jen6.jpeg

artist, now based in London. She discusses her new E.P., Take Me Home (out December), and has released its title-track. I find out about the transition from the U.S. to Britain; why Fantasy (from the E.P.) is a song that struck me – and how she has gone from a Classical artist, when young, to develop the sound she has today.

I hear more about Jennifer Ann's tastes and plans; how she is settling into London life; how her music and lyrics come together – and some advice she would offer new artists.

________

Hi, Jennifer. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello! My week has been really good.

I’ve been busy working on promoting my latest single,  Take Me Home, and have been doing a few demos. for some ad campaigns.

It’s been fun.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

Yes, definitely. My name is Jennifer Ann. I’m a singer-songwriter/pianist/producer originally from Minnesota, U.S.A. and now London-based. I create music that is an intermesh between contemporary Pop and Classical elements. I come from a Classical background so working with strings, piano; choral and orchestral elements is second nature to me. I also do music for advertising and have created music for brands like Lloyds Bank, Boots; Pampers and Unicef.

Take Me Home is your new song. Tell me a bit about its formation.

Take Me Home was written after a trip back home. I miss home on a regular basis but it’s always harder when I go back to visit and then return to the U.K. I was feeling inspired by memories I’ve had growing up in Minnesota and started writing a lot of the lyrics on the train on the way to a writing session with my friends Nick and Edd. We worked together on it and it just seemed to flow so naturally.

I knew I wanted it to be incredibly evocative as well as emotional. I wanted to make others envision the beauty of Minnesota - as well as feel the intense longing I often have to be there.

It is from the E.P. of the same name – out in December. If you had to define the E.P. and what it is about; what would your response be?

The E.P. is about being human - from the angle of my own personal experiences.

It’s about my life over the last several years: from leaving home in a small suburban town to living in a huge, sometimes lonely city. It’s also about my observations of humanity; how similar we are to each other. We all struggle, we all feel pain; we all just want to love and be loved.

My songs are essentially my diary - I can’t write about something unless it’s personal and relevant to me.

Nick Atkinson and Edd Holloway (and yourself) produced. What was it like working with them?

Nick and Edd are awesome to work with and have been truly supportive of my project from the beginning. I co-wrote both Take Me Home and Fantasy with them. They knew exactly how to help me achieve what I was envisioning and were very patient along the way. Additionally, their creative abilities as writers enabled them to give a lot of their own creative input. We worked together on the production for four of the tracks and Let Me Love You was produced solely by me.

Are there particular tracks that strike your heart – or are they equally important to you?

Take Me Home is definitely the one that tugs at my heart the most, simply, because of how much I miss my friends and family. My husband and I filmed the music video for it at my home where I grew up and in my favorite places of Minnesota back in June this year. Watching the video makes me emotional every time. There’s something about writing a song though that helps you deal with that specific situation or emotion a little bit better.

It’s truly cathartic.

jen2.jpeg

You are from Minnesota originally. Why move to England? What is it about the nation that attracted you?

There were a few reasons why I moved to England. First off is that my husband is English and lived in London - so that was a big reason. I originally met him when I studied abroad for a term in London during my Bachelor’s degree; fell in love with both him and the city and had to move back when I finished my degree.

I also decided to study for my Masters degree in Music Therapy in London when I moved over and the approach in England is very different than the approach in the U.S.A. Music Therapy practice is much more based in psychodynamics and interpersonal therapy in the U.K. - which I was more interested in than the behavioural approach taught in the U.S.A.

Was it hard to leave Minnesota? Do you plan on going back any day for a visit?

I feel like it wasn’t too hard at first but the longer I’m here the harder it gets - because the longer I go without being able to regularly see my friends and family. I do genuinely love London. It’s an incredible city with so many opportunities and amazing things to see and do. But, I think, for a lot of people, it’s always hard to leave your childhood home and the people you love the most.

I’m quite an outdoorsy person so I also really miss having all the wilderness and space as well as having real seasons! Thankfully, I do go back usually a few times a year to visit and sometimes do a few gigs.

So, that does make it a bit easier on me.

Classical music is where you started out. What was the reason for moving into Pop?

Yes, it is. I come from a classically trained background having studied piano and flute since I was eight - and then achieving my B.A. in Classical Music at university, where I also studied Voice. I started writing both Pop and contemporary Classical music when I was a teenager. Sometimes, it’s easier to express myself through the piano non-verbally and sometimes I prefer to write it all out and sing about it…it really depends. So, it’s not that I’ve moved solely into doing Pop music as I will continue to write and release more piano compositions in future - but that I really felt I needed to also explore and share this other side of me as an artist.

Your music has already gone down a storm on platforms like Spotify. Is it quite humbling knowing it resonates with so many people?

The best part of making music is connecting with other people who I may not have met otherwise and getting to hear their stories and experiences; hearing what my music has evoked in them. The fact that my music has connected with people is an incredibly fulfilling feeling to me. This is the true beauty and power of music - it has this almost mystical ability to bring people of so many different backgrounds together. In a world that feels so divisive at the moment, we need more opportunities to come together and understand each other.

Music can show us that at our core, we are all far more similar than different.

jen5.jpeg

Fantasy, from the E.P., is a track that mirrors the political songs of your father’s heroes. Is Trump’s election, and the change in the nation, responsible for the song? What do you think about the way things are going in the U.S.?

I wouldn’t necessarily say that Fantasy was intentionally a political song but it did come about after the U.S.A. election happened - and several months after Brexit had already happened. The world felt very uncertain and scary for some time and I, instinctively, felt this pull to protect myself by not thinking about it. It takes a lot of energy and courage, I think, to truly face this kind of uncertainty head-on - and it’s so tempting and easy to just not think about it. That’s kind of what Fantasy ended up being about - this need to hide away and be left alone in my own world. In reality, this isn’t something I could ever allow myself to do because I’ve always been very politically engaged. In general, I’m really sad by how disconnected and divisive people seem to have become.

Unfortunately, it has seemed at times that Trump has fostered some of this divisiveness but it had already been steadily growing - even before he became President: it’s not like this just happened overnight. If there’s any positive out of any of this, it’s that it has inspired more people to become politically engaged than before and I can’t say that’s a bad thing - no matter what your political beliefs are. It’s brought a lot of important issues to the forefront: issues about money in politics, corruption; lobbying, etc. that I think people may not have been as aware of as they were before. I still hold a lot of hope that my country will find a way to grow from these dark times and come together even stronger than before. Sometimes, in order to grow, things have to get worse and fall apart first.

If nothing bad ever happened, we’d never grow and become better people - because we’d have nothing to learn from.

Talking about your dad; how influential was he, and his musical, tastes to you?

My dad has always been a music aficionado and many of the artists he used to play on his big stereo system while I was growing up now serve as some of my greatest inspirations. Artists like Crosby, Stills, & Nash; The Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel.

Crosby, Stills, & Nash are still among my all-time favorite bands - Graham Nash, especially, has been such an inspiration lyrically to me. I read his biography last year and he spoke a lot about how he doesn’t waste time writing about things that aren’t important - he only writes about genuine issues and experiences and in accessible ways that people can relate to.

I feel the same way about writing and find that I often write sad and dark songs - but that’s because life just isn’t always happy and carefree! I feel that my time here is far too short to spend it not being who I am genuinely am. I don’t believe in faking anything. There is so much fake everything out there right now: fake news, fake media.

I think we’re all yearning for something more real to hold onto.

Aqu.jpg

 IN THIS PHOTO: Aquilo

Who are the new artists you suggest we check out?

Semi-new artists that I’m really into right now are Aquilo, RY X and Woodkid. I’ve also been listening a lot to Rosie Carney whom I’ve just discovered. A lot of her lyrics are about mental health and she’s open about her own struggles.

It’s this darker, more vulnerable side of artists that I seem to connect with and appreciate the most.

rosie.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Rosie Carney/PHOTO CREDIT: Deborah Sheedy 

Do you have gigs coming up? Where can we come and catch you play?

I do!

I’m playing Liverpool at The Brink on Nov. 17th; Limerick, Ireland at The Stormy Teacup on Nov. 18th - and London at The Bedford on Nov. 28th (where I’ll be playing with a few strings!).

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

This is such a hard one!

Crosby, Stills, & Nash - Crosby, Stills & Nash

Because it’s one of those albums I grew up listening to and, also, because the lyrical and melodic genius is exemplified in so many of these tracks. Probably my favorite album of all time.

Norah Jones - Come Away with Me

Started listening to this one also because of my dad - but genuinely fell in love with it when I was a teenager. Whenever I couldn’t sleep or was feeling anxious, I’d always listen to this album - even now, I still do when I’m feeling stressed. She’s also such a Classic artist and an inspiration to me.

David Lanz – Nightfall

My first inspiration for starting to write music. Leaves on the Seine will tear your heart apart with melancholy. This album reminds me of Sunday afternoons after getting back from church; lounging around the sunny living room with my family. One of the first albums I can remember that made me cry when I was a child without understanding why.

jen1.jpeg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

1. Be prepared and willing to do a lot more than just make music. The modern music business is all about knowing how to operate independently. This means that you often have to be your own manager, P.R.; accountant, photographer; videographer, producer - and so on - before you might be able to start to afford to take other people on board.

2. Be genuine - people will connect with you more if you show them you’re a real human being like them.

3. Do not underestimate the power of interacting with your fans! At the end of the day, they are the most important part of all of this. They are the ones who will support you. Foster those connections and relationships in a genuine way. I make an effort to try to respond to everyone who comments or messages me. This takes a lot of time but is well worth it, plus I get to have truly fulfilling and meaningful conversations with people whom I may not otherwise have met.

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

Ah man…it’s only October!

I’m still preparing for Halloween. For Christmas, I will be in Liverpool with family - so not working over the holidays! However, as soon as the holidays are over, I’m back in the studio to start recording E.P.-two ….

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

London Grammar - Oh Woman Oh Man

Their new album is incredible! Hannah’s voice is just other-worldly.

Amazing.

_________

Follow Jennifer Ann

jen4.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Sonia Leigh

INTERVIEW:

SONIA2.jpeg

 Sonia Leigh

________

I have been lucky enough to spend some time…

sonia.jpeg

with Sonia Leigh. The Nashville-based artist talks to me about her new single, Walking in the Moonlight, and the tour dates she has coming up – there are a few U.K. dates she is especially pumped about. I ask about her music tastes and which artists, she feels, have contributed the most to her.

The Country singer-songwriter assesses the state of the U.S. and how she feels the nation is doing; artists she advises we listen to – a bit about how she will be spending Christmas and the remainder of the year.

SONIA LEIGH PHOTOS CREDIT: Anna Webber

________

Hi, Sonia. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi! I am just getting over the excitement of my first leg of shows in the U.K.!

Had a lot of band rehearsals: getting the band ready for the upcoming tours. Friday night was a blast - it was the first show kicking off my U.K. tour with Country Music Week. I got to headline at the Borderline and we had one hell of a show! The turnout was fantastic and everyone was in high spirits - was a great start! Last night was my first show on the Broken Witt Rebels tour. We kicked that off in Liverpool at Studio2 Parr Street.

Seriously; a smashing night - and it’s just the beginning! 

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

Hi. I’m Sonia Leigh; I live in Nashville, Tennessee. My music is a bit like Bruce Springsteen, Joan Jett; Fleetwood Mac, Johnny Cash - but with a Pop twist. I guess you could say I’m a wildcard in this music industry.

I’d say I’m the Mad Hatter. 

 

Walking in the Moonlight is your new single. What can you tell me about its background?

I began writing and engineering Walking in the Moonlight in my bedroom. I have a fascination with the moon. I crawl onto my roof all the time to look at the moon, drink wine and just think: it’s my happy place. This song has such a sweet, simple and innocent approach to love - it’s cute yet passionate.

It has very poetic lyrics and kind of paints this scenario. It’s probably the most ‘Pop’ song I’ve ever released. I wanted to put this song out as summer comes to an end. The solar eclipse just came and went - and we’ve had some beautiful full moons this year!

It felt appropriate. 

You have written big songs for the likes of Zac Brown Band. You are now a solo artist. Do you prefer stepping out on your own or do you still write for other artists?

I love performing and doing my own thing - but I do still write for other artists; I’ve got a song called Funk in the Country on Big and Rich’s new record! I’m excited about that. I’ve had my songs recorded by other artists, as well (that you will soon hear about). I love writing music: it’s who I have always been and who I am. 

Can we expect an E.P. or album in the coming months?

I’ll release a couple more singles and then my new record, Mad Hatter, which I co-produced and co-engineered. I am hoping to release by the end of this tour. I’ve just launched a Kickstarter campaign. You can get involved and help to support the record release and my U.K. tour. You can reorder the record along with loads of goodies:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sonialeigh/sonia-leigh-is-tryna-make-a-record https://www.kickstarter.chttps://www.kickstarter.com/projects/sonialeigh/sonia-leigh-is-tryna-make-a-record

sonia3.jpeg

The U.S. has seen a lot of turbulence and upset the past few days. How does it make you feel, as a musician, seeing the kind of scenes that have been in the news recently?

I am heartbroken and angered....

I’m embarrassed by (some of) humanity right now: we as PEOPLE should be. This is out of control everywhere - not just in America. However, I refuse to live in fear. I won’t be cornered into a cave. My love goes out to all that are lost every day all over the world due to violence and hatred. All we need is love.

I am sad to say my hope for harmony has taken a hit.

Steering away from that and I am interesting finding out how Country music came to you? Which artists were you exposed to as a child?

I grew up listening to Hank Williams, Willie Nelson; Waylon Jennings, Loretta Lynn; Alabama etc... and as time went on…Hank, Willie and 1990s Country were how I learned to play the guitar. My father played the guitar and I begged him to teach me chords. He taught me G, C and D and, once I got those down, I immediately began writing my own songs. My whole family were musical so I was surrounded by music.

I took the ball and ran with it as soon as I learned how to play the guitar. 

Nashville is where you are based. I guess it is the perfect place for an artist like you. What is the vibe like there?

I moved to Nashville five years ago from Atlanta, Georgia. I have made so many wonderful friends in the music industry there - so much talent in one place. It’s a very tight community. There are certain places the songwriters go after their day of songwriting to unwind. I like knowing we all have the same heartbeat. Nashville has its own heartbeat and its music - and a good night out drinking, of course. L.o.L.!  

Most everyone out there knows each other - because we’ve written songs together at one time or another. You get close to someone real quick in a room writing about some serious subjects, sometimes. It’s kinda like we’ve all seen each other vulnerable.

onia4.jpeg

Is it easy to put into words what it is about Country music that hits your heart? Why, do you think, the genre resonates inside of you?

All genres resonate with me...

What is great about Country, in particular, is the storytelling; the vulnerability and directness of a lyrics. If you notice the difference between Rock and Country are the poetic elements. If you get too fancy with Country it doesn’t work.

Best to just keep it simple and come right out and tell it like it is.  

I believe you are coming to the U.K. to tour with Katy Hurt and Friends and Broken Witt Rebels. How did that come about and are you looking forward to it?

I met the 'Rebels about a year-and-a-half ago when we were on a bill together for a Time Out magazine event at the Jazz Cafe. We hit it off. When they asked me to be a part of this tour, I jumped and the chance - because I knew it would be a blast and I’m a big fan. Those guys are going all the way. Katy Hurt and the Healers are like a family to me. We had a blast playing shows together this summer so we decided to make it a small tour in between our 'Rebels dates. They will be my band on the 'Rebels tour. We had our first run of shows with these guys and they are just an incredible band and individuals. They’ve treated us like gold. 

We are kicking down ass together on this tour!

Have you been to the U.K, before? Any particular dates you are especially looking forward to?

I have toured the UK quite a bit: it’s kind of become my second home! I am really excited about all of the dates - especially the Broken Witt Rebels...because this is the first time

We’ve gotten to tour together. We are having a blast so far!  I am excited about our Birmingham show and to see where Danny (the lead singer for B.W.R.)  is from. He’s offered to show us around his hometown - so I’m looking forward to that. 

dav.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: David Borné/PHOTO CREDIT: Jason Lee Denton

Who are the new artists you suggest we check out?

Katy Hurt, David Borné; Jacob Thomas Jr., Jason Martin; Kree Harrison, Priscilla Renea; Shelly Fairchild, Crouss and Paul McDonald.

jacob.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Jacob Thomas Jr.

There…that should keep you busy for a minute. Ha!

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Darkness on the Edge of Town - Bruce Springsteen

Because it’s honest it’s raw - and it’s Rock and Roll. I learned a lot from listening to and watching Bruce perform.

Blood on the Tracks - Bob Dylan

It’s one of the greatest, most well-written records ever. I never get tired of it.

All Eyes on Me – 2Pac

I relate to the struggles of 2Pac - plus the production on this record Is dope! 2Pac was a fantastic writer. He was a poet he just wrote about what he saw - and he was brilliant at connecting that with all kinds of audiences. 

These are my go-to records - although, it’s so hard to leave out Fleetwood Mac and Sia etc... just so much great music that inspires me in different ways.

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

 Be you: there is no one else like YOU. Speak Your truth - and don’t apologize for your art.

sonia5.jpeg

Christmas is approaching. Do you have plans already or will you be busy working?

I am planning to go to Lucca, Italy to spend with my friend Carmen Vandenberg and her family! I went the year before last and it was the most relaxing, beautiful time.

I figured it would be the perfect ending to a long tour.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Hurricane - Bob Dylan

It’s one of the most well-crafted songs: it’s a movie in a song. You wanna learn how to write a song?! Study the imagery in Hurricane.

Thank you very much for having me today!

__________

Follow Sonia Leigh

tv.jpeg

INTERVIEW: FEHM

INTERVIEW:

gasgsgsds.jpg

 FEHM

________

THE guys of FEHM have been pretty busy…

fehm3.jpg

which is why Human Age is actually their latest single – Last Breath was out when the questions were pitched. It doesn’t matter as the two songs are part of a double A-side. I get a glimpse into the background and stories of both– and what we can expect before the year is through.

The Leeds-based band talk about important albums and artists; how they have evolved in the past few years; what Leeds’ music scene is like right now – and what to expect from their upcoming L.P.

________

Hi, FEHM. How are you? How has your week been?

Paul: Aye. We’re all good, ta. Week’s been fine.

For those new to your work, can you introduce yourself, please?

We're FEHM; a five-piece band in Leeds consisting of Paul, Amy; Ben, Chris and Darren (Denzel).  

Before I go on; can I ask what the inspiration behind ‘FEHM’ is?

I guess our inspiration is connected to bands and musicians coming out, predominantly, around the 1980s - from Post-Punk to Goth; to New-Wave etc.

It's the sound we're most connected to as a whole band.

 

Last Breath is out. What can you reveal about its story and start?

When we became a five-piece; we had a few songs separately. I had a song I'd written - and so did Darren. We changed the key of my song and merged the two together to fit for a verse and chorus. Ben went away and wrote the guitar riff the same night; myself and Amy worked on the vocal melody that week. The overall process of that song was generally extremely easy: it all just happened really quickly. After we had the shell and basis of the song; we started to go over it with a fine comb; the arpeggio intro. on the synth came around then.

We were also very close to recording the song, maybe a day or two, before and Ben had the idea of - after the breakdown - everyone stops and the guitar riff just plays by itself - and everyone kicks back in on the second bar. 

The lyrics I wrote over a period of time: some, when we first started making the song; some later. I work in a hospital and the song is fundamentally about seeing people in a lot of pain during their final days - they're looking for a release but, if they let go, it's the end. 

Human Age is the other side of the single. What was the idea behind a double A-side and is it good to be back after a bit of a break?

There wasn’t any specific idea behind doing a double A-side. When Ben and Denz joined the band, we just wrote these two songs pretty quickly and then recorded them. So, we’ve been sat on them for a while and we wanted something to bridge the gap between the Circadian Life E.P., and then, our album to come - so thought it was perfect.

It’s great to have the songs up and about for people to hear - as we’ve had them for months. 

Your debut L.P. is out later in the year. Can you tell us about the title and songs that will be on it?

We don't have any titles yet: we don't even have song titles.

Last Breath was called 'Merger' because we merged two songs together - right up until about a month ago when it became Last Breath.

Regarding the album; it'll consist of about ten/eleven songs. We've become a lot more Electronic in the past year - which is where our sound is pushing more towards. We have a saying that if the song doesn't feel 'hearty', then we scrap it. We want the songs to connect with you; make you feel how we feel when we write them...we're trying to find a euphoric sound that encapsulates sorrow with joy. 

So far, for the album, we probably have around six-eight songs: some, at the very (very) early stages; some closer to completion.

Darren: We've been concentrating on expanding our sound to write the album and developing ways of introducing new ideas and concepts. We want each song on the album to have a heart so, to achieve this, the chord progressions and melodies are designed to invoke certain feelings and different atmospheres. 

fehm8.jpg

How does your current material differ from your previous stuff? Have you made any changes since your earliest work?

Paul: Considerable changes...

Our last E.P. was when we were just a three-piece; which was myself, Amy and Chris: one guitar, one bass and drums. Now, with Denzel and Ben joining, we have a whole new arrangement of instruments - we collectively think about the progression and melodies of songs differently, too. 

Leeds is where you hail from. What is the city’s music scene like right now? Is it one of the best places to foster and evolve your music?

The music scene in whole is very good. Regardless of genre, everyone is connected to a few certain places like Wharf Chambers, The Brudenell; Temple of Boom etc. Some places cater a little more to a certain genre but, generally, everyone goes to all the same places - and everyone in Leeds gets behind each other a lot. 

Darren: From one perspective; I sometimes worry Leeds may be losing its industrial aesthetic. With an ever-increasing skyline of sparkly high-end developments and the abandoned 1970s high-rises; old factories almost all demolished - a strong source of inspiration that produced some of the world’s greatest Goth bands will disappear forever. I suppose we've always got the Roger Stevens building for our Ballardian dystopia fix.  

fehm2.jpg

Can you tell me how the band came together and what those early sessions were like?

Paul: Myself and Chris are brothers and we were in another band many years ago. After it ended, I took some time just writing a load of new music. Me and Amy have been together for around six years so us three decided to start the band around three year ago with a friend of mine. It was very aggressive early on. I used to pace around the stage and shout a lot. It was quite fun for a bit but, when you're writing quite basic music, it becomes tedious rather quickly. We even have a bunch of recorded tracks no one’s even heard before from around that time. I listened to one of them the other day - it's terrible.

My friend left the band and we just became a three-piece - and I went on the guitar. We started thinking more about the arrangements and melodies and spent a lot more time on each individual instrument - which is when we wrote the Circadian Life E.P. 

Funnily enough, even before the Circadian Life E.P., I was asking Ben and Darren to join. I've been asking them for a few years. 

Then, it finally happened: we became a five-piece. 

jsjsjhds.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Francesca Tirpak

Do you all share the same music tastes? Who are the bands and artists you were all raised on?

Darren: I'd say we all have a common interest in music from the 1980s but, maybe, prefer different versions of the 1980s. For instance, I'm really interested in the whole Synth. Britannia movement with bands like Depeche Mode; whereas others may be more inclined to the Post-Punk and avant-garde side of the era.

We've got all the bases covered and there's so much to explore from the decade. 

Paul: We all have a general love of everything 1980s: the style and culture, the way it was; the sound etc. So, we could list a million bands and musicians that we all love like Depeche Mode and New Order etc. - but we also all have different loves too. Some of us are into experimental music; some of us are into Rap music etc. I think if you pigeon-hole yourself into just liking a certain genre you’re subjecting yourself into missing out on something that could potentially be amazing. 

culture.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Culture CT/PHOTO CREDIT: Aaron J. Villa

Who are new acts you recommend we check out?

Beta-Blockers; Culture CT; Treeboy & Arc; The Boxing.

treey.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Treeboy & Arc

If you each had to select the album that means the most to you; which would it be and why?

I’m afraid we just can’t do an album each…it’s too hard. This is a list of bands and artists that mean a lot to us; either collectively or singular.:

Lowlife, Sisters of Mercy; Cocteau Twins, Radiohead; The Cure, New Order; Depeche Mode, Protomartyr; The Horrors, The Sound; David Bowie; Siouxsie and the Banshees. 

WOMAN.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Francesca Tirpak

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we see you play?

28th Oct - Wharf Chambers – Leeds

5th Nov - The Brudenell - Leeds (w/Autobahn)

10th Nov - Off the Record – Manchester

19th Nov - The Brudenell - Leeds (w/Protomaytr)

22nd Nov - Broadcast - Glasgow (w/Autobahn).

Does the band have any time off scheduled for this year? Do you get a chance to disconnect from music?

We don’t really take time off, per se. We’ve shared a practice room at Temple of Boom in Leeds with Eagulls for a few years as we’re all mates - but we’ve just recently got our own room due to us writing an album and them writing their new album. We go down a few times a week as a band and we also go down in pairs or by ourselves - to work on certain parts etc.; so it’s pretty full-on in that sense. I wouldn’t say we get the chance to disconnect - but I don’t feel any of us want to do that either.

It’s just a part of who we are. 

fehm4.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Hallett Photography

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Listen to each other.

You could have the best guitarist in the world but, if you’re not gelling with everyone else, then what’s the point?! Be open: multiple minds are better than one. Don’t be too precious over something you’ve written. Don’t be afraid of letting someone else take it to somewhere you couldn’t think of.

Experiment and try new things. 

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Darren: O. Children – Heels

Paul: Lowlife - From Side to Side

Amy: The Sound - I Can’t Escape Myself

Ben: Cocteau Twins - A Kissed Out Red Floatboat

Chris: Vitas - 7th Element 2002

__________

Follow FEHM

fehm1.jpg

INTERVIEW: Adria

INTERVIEW:

promo.jpg

 Adria

________

I am envious Adria has the experience of Australia’s…

single.jpg

Gold Coast under her belt. She talks to me about moving from there to the U.K. and how life differs here. I ask her about the stunning new single, Gold Water, and her attachment to the ocean – her name derives from the Adriatic Sea. Gold Water is the hotly-anticipated follow-up to (2015’s) debut E.P., Shell. Adria discusses her musical rise and how much affected her from a young age.

I was curious to find out what the next step is and, in looking forward, a nod back to those artists that helped shape who she is.

________

Hi, Adria. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey! It’s been great, thank you.

I am so happy to be able to finally release Gold Water into the world!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I’m a singer-songwriter from Australia - but I now live in London. I’m not quite sure what genre I fit into; so I’m just going to say ‘I write honest music’. Everything I write about is from personal experience. I’ve been writing music since I was super-young and I suppose that’s naturally evolved to who I am today and what I do.

Gold Water is your new single. Can you tell me about the song and how it came together?

The song was written in Sweden with music producers who I absolutely adore and are collectively known as Jane Rain. It started off as a beat and I just layered vocal ideas and melodies from until it felt right. The bones of the song were written quite quickly.

That usually happens with tracks I like the most.

The song follows a two-year break from music. What is the reason for the gap?

Life happened, I suppose.

I moved to London (from Australia) and went into hiding for a bit to travel; meet new people and experience new things.

I definitely got all that.

Was it natural returning to music or was it quite a long process putting Gold Water together?

No, it was very natural. Writing music is where I most feel like myself.

1W2A2659a look1 new2.jpg

Your name, ‘Adria’, is taken from the Adriatic Sea – your new song is about water. Do you have a connection to water/the sea? What is it about that setting that speaks to you?!

I’ve always had a deep connection with the ocean/the sea. I am unsure why that is the case, though. I was born in Perth, Australia - which is a coastal city - so I’ve always felt calm and at-peace whenever I’m surrounded by water.

My parents named me after the Adriatic Sea - which is probably quite fitting.

Even though you are based here; you were born in Australia. Why did you relocate over here?

I relocated for a change...

I don’t like to let myself get too comfortable or content - and I wanted new things to write about. 

As a teenager; you moved around a lot and spent time in various areas. Was music the solace and constant focus for you during this time?

Music has always, and will always be, my safe space and constant: it’s the one thing I know I can rely on no matter what is going on.

spotfy.JPG

Tell me which musicians are most important to you? Who do you look up to in terms of the impact they have made in music?

Natasha Khan (Bat for Lashes).

I think I listened to Two Suns on-repeat for a year; maybe, even two. She really taught me to have no boundaries and be a fearless and honest writer. I never knew that Pop music could truly be so creative and push the boundaries in the way that she did it. I love how involved she is in the writing process of her music and artistry.

That’s really important to me.

Is there going to be an E.P. next year, perhaps?

I hope so!

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

I’m loving a rapper that goes by the name 6LACK.

black.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: 6LACK

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Bat for Lashes – Two Suns

Mariah Carey – Music Box

I had this album on-repeat for years when I was only just a child - so I could learn how to sing.

Amy Winehouse – Back to Black

Her music was really something special. The honesty in her lyrics gets me every time.

banner.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Keep doing what you love.

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I will, most likely, be working!

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Amy Winehouse – Love Is a Losing Game

__________

Follow Adria

Adria GW promo 2.jpg

INTERVIEW: NATHASSIA

INTERVIEW:

pic.jpeg

NATHASSIA

________

SHE commands a huge fanbase and makes music that…

pic2.jpeg

gets people together and moving. I talk to NATHASSIA about her current single, Light of the World, and whether there will be new material soon. She reveals her musical tastes and how it feels being compared to Kate Bush; what the music scene is like in the Netherlands (where she originally is from) – and when music first came into her life.

I ask Nathassia to name albums that have been influential for her; whether the music industry lacks any real spark – and any other musician she recommends we check out.

________

Hi, NATHASSIA. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi!

A bit hectic as I had a live show in Hull!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I like to transgress borders and mindsets with my music - by infusing traditional World music instruments with electronic sounds.

Can you reveal the story behind your new single, Light of the World? 

You've probably heard about A.I. and robotics. The song is about our future: when love merges with technology.

The video is quite trippy but features recorded street footage. Can you tell me more about how the video came together and what we are watching?

The street dancing was at Notting Hill Carnival - which was great fun. I chose that because it celebrates multiculturalism.

You self-produced your debut album alongside leading producers. Was it quite a challenging process – or did you learn a lot along the way?

It was actually a very enjoyable process - because I worked with producers I know well.

pic4.jpeg

Will there be more songs coming before next year?

Not this year: I've got a new album coming early-2018.

Your voice has garnered comparisons to the likes of Kate Bush. Is she someone you grew up with? What is it about her that appeals to so many singer-songwriters?

I have a memory, when I was a young child, when I saw the video for Wuthering Heights for the first time and was impressed and mesmerised by the way she was dancing - and loved the way she was singing.

I thought she sounded like a cat! (But I do love cats!)

Netherlands is where you were born. Did the country provide a lot of musical inspiration and what motivated the move to the U.K.?

Because of my mixed background; I grew up listening to classical Indian sounds and exotic South American music - whilst the Netherlands was a hub for Electronic music. I first moved to London for work experience for my studies (International Music Management).

After I completed that, I moved to London permanently to set up a recording studio and work on my album.

pic3.jpeg

Can you tell me how music first came into your life and which artists you grew up listening to?

I did my first show when I was three-years-old with a microphone from an old lorry that my dad brought home for me to play with - singing along to Gloria Estefan, Madonna; Bob Marley, UB40 and classical Indian singer Lata Mangeshkar (and Dutch artist Herman Brood).

Your music mixes Electronica and Pop (with other genres). It is fun and energetic. Do you think music lacks a certain spark and sense of fun right now?

Thanks! I don't think current music misses spark and fun - but I do feel that there aren't so many risks taken anymore.

san.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: San Holo

Who are the new artists you suggest we check out?

Lost Horizons, San Holo and Satori.

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Kraftwerk – Radioactivity

Gloria Estefan - Alma Caribeña 

Nitin Sawhney - Beyond Skin

I (just) simply love all three and have played them a million times!

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now? 

Find local fans and work your social media incredibly hard.

pic5.jpeg

Do you have gigs coming up? Where can we come and catch you play?

The last two shows, as part of my Feel the Future Now U.K. tour, are in Brighton and Southampton.

In 2018, I will start my world tour.

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I have plans to shoot a video in Spain for the next album.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

I'm very much into Progressive-House. My current favourite track is Emi Galvan - Memo

__________

Follow NATHASSIA

piv6.jpeg

INTERVIEW: L.A.D

INTERVIEW:

lad 3.png

 L.A.D

________

MANY are claiming there is a revival of 1980s music happening right now.

art.jpg

This is an assertion backed by the Reading-based trio, L.A.D. The lyric-video for Dance Floor has just been unveiled so I ask Natalie, Jack and Luke about the song and how it came together. They talk about their formation and where their loves of the 1980s’ sounds and sensations stem from. I ask about their influences and what the chemistry is like in the group.

The trio discusses future material and what the music scene is like in Reading; the new artists they recommend we get involved with – and how Natalie, a solo artist before she helped form the trio, has transitioned from lone performance to life with L.A.D.

________

Hi, guys. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey! Been great, thanks!

Very productive over at L.A.D. We had a writing session at the start of the week; then, a photoshoot on Thursday! 

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

We are L.A.D. - and that's Natalie, Jack and Luke. We are a band making 1980s-inspired music and are about to take over the world...standard. 

banner2.jpeg

Tell me about the band-name, ‘L.A.D.’ and the meaning behind that. Do the words ‘Live After Dark’ hold special significance?!

L.A.D can mean whatever you want it to…

It has a meaning to each of us, individually, but we are kinda leaving it up to interpretation. It could mean ‘Luke And Dinosaurs’; ‘Lobsters Are Downstairs’...

...whatever you want!  

How did you all get together? Have you known each other for a while or is L.A.D. a pretty spontaneous creation?

We've known each other a long time just from being from Reading and going to house parties (and messy nights at the Purple Turtle!). We've written together for the past eighteen months just to stay creative - and L.A.D just developed naturally! 

Dance Floor is the new single. Can you tell me about its origins and how it felt hearing it back from the first time?

Well...doesn't everyone just love those timeless tunes from the 1980s that just makes you get up and dance; to not care what people think and what you look like?! So, when writing Dance Floor; we tried to capture that!

Then, we fired up the drum machine; put synths on turbo - and threw the ginge in the booth to make silly noises until it created a song!

lad 2.jpg

An album will follow. What themes and ideas are explored on the record?

Lots of upbeat tunes to get you dancing but, also, some drowning-in-synths sci. fi. moments. Our own version of the 1980s power-ballad is absolutely on the cards!

Your music celebrates the best of the 1980s and the glory of dance! Is it a decade you are all fond of - and what is it about the 1980s that attracts you all?

We were all bought up on 1980s music and it's a decade that has heavily influenced all of us in style, music and fashion! It was just a time where music really pushed boundaries: a decade full of colour and fun - and a lot of leg warmers and big hair! 

keys.jpeg

It is rare finding artists who marry the 1980s and modern sounds. Do you feel modern music lacks invention and colour?

There's actually a revival of 1980s sounds and music going on which we are very much enjoying!

But, also, there's never been a more diverse time in music than right now! Although we love our genre and are ready to bounce in the gap in the industry; we also have a lot of respect for many artists out there!

End of the day: if you're creating music and embracing your talent, we are fans! 

nat.jpeg

Natalie. I have known you (and your music) for a long time. How does it feel transitioning from a solo artist to a trio? What are the main differences?

To be honest, the main difference is the amount of sarcasm and rude jokes I hear on a daily basis! Joking aside; after writing with these guys for over eighteen months and, after releasing Live in Love, it just felt like a natural transition. We all have a really good giggle during sessions/gigs and I love working with them both.

It's also great to have two other people's opinions and be able to bounce ideas off each other! 

What is an area like Reading like for a new act? Do you rely a lot on London and its venues – or is there an active local scene?

Reading is a great place for acts starting up.

We have a lot of local music venues/events that really support local bands. We also have a strong BBC introducing presence – and, of course...the amazing Reading Festival! 

tiny.png

IN THIS PHOTO: Tiny Giant

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

Well…apart from L.A.D?!

Tiny Giant; NINA and The Romances are great new artists!

NINA.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: NINA

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we see you play?

Well. Currently, we're focused on working on the album; perfecting things and (just) making music.

There are a lot of announcements coming soon in regards to gigs...

lad 5.jpg

If you each had to select the one album that means the most to you; which would they be and why?

Jack: Whatcha Gonna Do for Me - Chaka Khan

Amazing combination of musicianship and, at the time, revolutionary synth. work and production. 

Natalie: That's so hard! Either Immaculate by Madonna or Whitney Houston (by Whitney Houston)

Both these albums were massive influences on me growing up - as a singer as well as becoming an artist. I could, literally, listen to both of these albums on-repeat all-day, every day! Both are strong artists who were never afraid to be themselves. 

Luke: Justice - Cross

The first fully-Electronic album I ever loved. It really was a game-changer in regards to musical direction! 

lad simple.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now? 

It sounds cheesy but (just) make the music you love. Be true to yourselves as artists and, as long as the music is making you happy, then keep doing it!

Never take ‘no’ for an answer! 

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

Working on the ultimate Christmas 1980s classic....obviously. Haha

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Object of My Desire – Starpoint

How Will I Know - Whitney Houston 

Peter Gabriel - Big Time (it's a banger)

__________

Follow L.A.D

banner.jpeg

INTERVIEW: Jasper Wilde

INTERVIEW:

click.jpg

 Jasper Wilde

________

IT is interesting learning more about Jasper Wilde…

Jasper Wilde II Colour-1.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Ariel Majtas

and how he arrived in London. The Cannes-born musician discusses his charity work with Key Changes and his involvement with Salute – how they are impacting him and providing nourishment. I ask him about his upbringing and the artists that have inspired him; whether he is working on anything new – and why he is flying to Miami in November.

Wilde reveals his route into music and whether he fancies time in the U.S.; how his week has been – and those crucial records that have settled deep in his heart.

________

Hi, Jasper. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m very good.

My week has been full-on with photoshoots, planning and producing music over at the charity, Key Changes - a music recovery service working for people with mental health problems.

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

My name is Jasper. I’m a twenty-four-year-old Frenchman from Cannes. I’m a multi-instrumentalist, artist-producer…

I’d say that my main instrument is guitar - but I realise that bass and keys are the ones I use a lot right now.

I also play talk box.

live.jpg

What are you working on at the moment? Can we expect any new material before the end of the year?

I’ve just finished a song with a spoken-word/rapper from Brixton that I met through the charity work that I do.

It’s coming out in November - so lots more photos to be taken.

Talk to me about Salute and your involvement with that?

I heard about the competition from a friend.

The prize-money is incredible and as it’s so hard, money-wise, in the early stages of being a musician; it could make a huge difference to my life - it’s great to see a company doing so much work and promotion of new artists like this.

I think the website and app. are really cool and the standard is really high…I just hope I can win!

DSC_0090.jpg

You’re based in London but come from Cannes. Why did you move from France and what are the differences in terms of the music and people?

Yes, I am. I did a year in Medicine at the Université Nice Sophia Antipolis but realised music was the only thing that mattered to me. So, I moved to London to improve my English and dedicate 100% of my life and time to music.

French music is great but it is in French - I love my country and my roots but feel that English sounds better sang (than French). I also want the whole world to connect with me as an artist - which makes it a lot easier singing in English.

In France, there’s not a lot of space for international artists (or French artists singing in English), unless you’re Beyoncé. So, when you’re starting up, it’s not the easiest process and everyone wants you to sing in French (as we know French radio plays, mostly, French artists).

341B1974.jpg

As an artist; you play all the instruments and produce. When did you first pick an instrument up and do you prefer having musical autonomy?

I couldn’t, obviously, remember as I was two-and-a-half-years-old - but there’s footage of me with my grandpa playing nursery rhymes on the piano. I, then, saw my uncle playing electric guitar for my birthday - when I was ten - and was blown away; so I really got into it then. I started copying him on an old crusty upside-down guitar - as I’m left-handed - and, shortly after that, my parents bought an electric guitar.

I think learning as much as you can is really important – it doesn’t mean you have to do everything. But, knowing what you can and cannot do is key to me.

I did prefer having musical autonomy but, now that I practised so much and know what I can do, I feel confident and comfortable having someone else involved in the process

I believe Jimmy Douglas has invited you over to Miami. How did it feel getting the news and what will you two be doing?!

I was just over-excited!

Speaking to him on the phone was just weird and so cool at the same time. He’s so chilled as well. We, first, are going to meet, for real, in November, in Miami; then, do some writing and see where the music takes us. Just being in a room with him will teach me so much: it’s a process that you can’t predict, though - but there’s definitely something bubbling...

27364140023_17ef812ccc_b.jpg

Have you been to the U.S.? Is that a market you want to get into?

Yes, I have. I went to L.A. for three months last year...well, who wouldn’t want to get successful in the U.S.?!

That’s also where the music I love is coming from…

I want to know more about the charity, Key Changes. How did you come to work for them and why is it so important being involved with them?

Key Changes is a charity that provides one-on-one professional studio sessions for people who are mentally ill (from hospitals and prisons). I got introduced to it by the person I work with every day as she is one of the trustees.

It completely changed my life. It is important to me as it’s another way of learning - you have to be fast, creative and make them feel comfortable by doing what they want; not what I want. It’s nice to not think about yourself every now and then, as we know, doing what we do as artists can be lonely and very stressful. It opened up my mind.

At some point, I felt like a horse with blinkers - which you have to be, I think, when learning your craft; like a geek in a way. Now - since I’m doing this charity work - I see in 3-D…and more opportunities come along.

back.jpg

It’s so great, as well, seeing those who have had a pretty rough journey open up and express themselves - and their experiences with their lyrics and music is an incredibly healing gift.

In terms of the music you were brought up on; which artists stick in your mind from the early years?

Michael Jackson, Prince (and) Kool & The Gang at every house-party my parents were putting on.

It was almost the rule! Haha.

charlie.jpg

IN THIS PHOTO: Charlie Puth

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

One of my favourite new artists is Charlie Puth. I completely connect with him as he produces, writes and play on most of his songs.

I feel like our parents played us the same music.

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we all catch you play?

Not at the moment - been busy writing new material.

longue.jpg

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Michael Jackson – Thriller

I, basically, learned most about my own producing from this album. I watched so many videos and interviews about the whole process - It’s just incredible. Quincy Jones, Rod Temperton and Michael Jackson had such a big impact on my production and way of writing music. I actually met Rod Temperton, once, at the Jazz Café and we had a chat.

It was weird talking about ‘Michael’, as he would say, and talked about a couple of the songs that weren’t released and why. Too weird. Haha

Justin Timberlake – Justify

It’s the perfect follow-up from Thriller, for me, to learn production (which is why meeting Jimmy Douglas and working with him soon is so exciting). Every second of this album is amazing: I've probably listened to it 10,000,000,000 times. It doesn’t even sound dated - and it’s sixteen-years-old.

I just love it.

AC/DC - Back in Black

I started to learn guitar from this album. Angus Young was my hero at the time. It’s Hard-Rock - but they still add a bit of groove to it.

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Determination, self-belief; resilience: you get eaten up, otherwise. Also; find out who you are: authentic artists are the ones the public like the most...

So; BE YOU!

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I will be working until Christmas week, where I’ll go back home down in the South of France for a bit, celebrating with the family.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Hmmm…

It’s hard...but I’d say Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson  

__________

Follow Jasper Wilde

cool.jpg

INTERVIEW: Skye Wallace

INTERVIEW:

skye.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: James Burrows

 Skye Wallace

________

A lot of my time is being spent documenting and…

sky.jpg

ART CREDIT: Greg Maxwell

featuring great Canadian artists. I am not sure why I am popular there – never good questioning or speculating – but I am very glad Skye Wallace has come to my attention. She talks about her awesome new single, Scarlet Fever, and what comes next; the advice she would offer new artists - and whether we can see her in the U.K.

I ask Wallace about her musical background the artists she followed; when music came into her life – and the three albums that mean the most to her.

________

Hi, Skye. How are you? How has your week been?

Pretty good! 

We're on the road right now - playing in Montreal tonight!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

My name is Skye Wallace; I'm a Toronto-based artist who does a Folk-Rock-tinged-with-Punk style of music.

Scarlet Fever is the new single. Is there a story behind it? Tell me more about the song…

The song is (about) a love story set in the Yukon.

After a winter apart; Scarlet is arriving in the Dawson City harbour by boat and her lover awaits on land - petrified with uncertainty over the state of their devotion. It's based on a true story - I tried to evoke the messy turmoil of love and lust with the energy of the song.

The song is quite energised and high-octane. Was it an easy song to get down on tape or did it go through various stages?!

Well, this particular version happened very organically.

I had great players, a great space and a relatively clear idea with room to play. However, this isn't the first version. We first recorded Scarlet Fever as quite a different song that was released as a bonus track on my 2014 release, Living Parts. Check it out, if you're so inclined! 

I always love hearing the processes of creative projects.

new.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Nelson Mouëllic

Is there going to be any more music coming this year? What else do you have planned for 2017?

I'll be releasing another single in early 2018 along with a full album later in 2018 - which I'm really excited about.

The remainder of 2017 is finishing up this tour then touring the East Coast of Canada for November; then seeing some West Coast action in December.

Then, it's down to more recording!

Do you remember when music came into your life? Can you remember the first song you heard?

I was pretty obsessed with Randy Travis when I was three or four. I carried around the tape everywhere: I went and knew all the words (phonetically at least). Everyone in my household had a great love of music, especially, my mom's side of the family - being from Newfoundland.

sssdhdhjd.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Steven

Who are the musicians you followed and were captivated by as a youngster?

I was obsessed with a bunch of different artists but the standouts I can think of now are Neil Young, The Weakerthans; Against Me, Patti Smith; Brand New and Tom Waits.

Looking back on the year (so far); what has been your fondest memory so far?

The tour I did of Italy and Germany (in May) was full of good times and crazy moments; beautiful sights and dope shows. The only bad thing that happened was an old Italian man likened my super-pasty legs to mozzarella. 

guitar.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Jenny Ramone

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

I'm on a huge Big Thief kick at the moment. Definitely, check them out.

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we catch you play?

We're in Montreal tonight at The BOG then Toronto, tomorrow, at The Cameron House back-room. We'll be announcing the East Coast tour dates early next week - so keep tabs on the socials! 

I'll be posting soon! 

Do you have any plans coming to the U.K.? Have you performed over here at all?

I haven't yet but, with the new album coming out, I'm working on coming over at least once….it's always been a dream. 

nelson1.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Nelson Mouëllic

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Brand New - Deja Entendu

Brand New really changed me when I was in high-school. This one is everything I want out of an album...

The Weakerthans - Left and Leaving

The Weakerthans are my all-time favourite band and this record was the first I heard. I remember being extremely affected, emotionally and creatively, when I discovered this.

Tom Waits - Rain Dogs

My mom sat my brother and I down in the car one day and told us we had to listen to Rain Dogs. It started with Singapore, and we were like: "Mom, what the heck is this? He sounds like Satan." She told us we'd learn to love it - and we did.

It was a huge inspiration for me when I first started experimenting with writing my own music.

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Just keep going.

Sometimes, it seems like you're just treading water and not making any headway. Stick to your own thing you're doing - there's no point in trying to fit the confines of what already exists. In order to do make your thing happen, it often takes time…a lot of time.

You just need to keep going and keep believing in your art.

nelson2.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Nelson Mouëllic

Christmas is not too far away. Do you all have plans already - or will you be busy working?

I'll be hanging out in Vancouver; playing shows in the area - but also doing some chilling with family and friends!

Are there chances for you to detach from music? Do you have any hobbies outside of music?

I have plans to get back into curling this winter.

I curled for eight or nine years and love that sport. I grew up behind a curling club because my grandfather ran the club and made the ice - so it's near and dear to my heart.

Stoked to get back into it.

__________

Follow Skye Wallace

nelson3.jpg

INTERVIEW: Titus Makin

INTERVIEW:

Titus Makin shot by Michael Morgan - 2017-16.jpg

 PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Morgan 

Titus Makin

________

HE is based in Los Angeles…

Titus Makin shot by Michael Morgan - 2017-22 copy.jpg

 PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Morgan

but has links to Georgia and Arizona. I talk to the U.S. star Titus Makin about his new single, Ropes - and shooting its incredible video. He discusses his connection with God and how faith connects with his music; whether there are going to be more songs in the approaching months – and the artists that have inspired him already.

I ask about touring and if we can expect him in the U.K.; how he balances his acting career – he appeared on shows like Glee – with the demands of music; what advice he would offer anyone starting out – and whether he has plans for Christmas.

________

Hi, Titus. How are you? How has your week been? 

Mine has been great! Hope yours has been as well!

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please? 

I’m Titus Makin; a Pop artist and actor. If you like Pop music with Soul undertones, I'm your man! L.o.L.

Ropes is the new single. Tell me about its story and how it came together?

I was honestly just with my producer/co-writer (Jake Scott). We heard a Maroon 5 song and wanted to write something in that tempo. Then, I started sharing with him how difficult it can be to not fall back into old habits and sharing how much it means for me to stay near to God - "Keeping me on his ropes" (not letting me stray away due to my own selfishness) 

The video looks like it was an interesting experience. What was the shoot like and do you enjoy filming videos?

The shoot was a blast!

I love the creative process of doing a music video. It was my first time having backup dancers - which added a beautiful energy to the song and final picture.

Will there be an E.P. or more material coming soon?

YES. I’m working on an upcoming E.P. - now titled LEAN - which will also feature Ropes and an upcoming single, Good Love.

You are an artist from Arizona. What is the music scene like there and were there any local artists that inspired you when you were younger?

Due to me being a military brat; I'm not too versed on the music scene in AZ; but throughout high-school, I definitely met some phenomenally talented vocalist.

Titus Makin shot by Michael Morgan - 2017-12.jpg

 PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Morgan 

How important was your time at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts? What are the most important lessons/things you learned whilst there?

It was very important for me, personally.

I started going to school there very young so I had a lot of maturing to do before I could get out on the battlefield of entertainment. By the time I graduated, I was well equipt with the technical and historical side of acting. I also learned not to drink too much while I was there: it can have pretty intense, damaging effects. 

beanie.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: @chrislabadie

In addition to music, you have starred in shows like Glee. Has time in T.V. shows like Pretty Little Liars helped your music - and is there a connection between acting and music?

Acting has definitely helped my music by me being able/willing to be more vulnerable (in writing session and just connecting to my music as a whole). Also; just comfort in front of the camera in general.

Will we be able to catch you on any other shows this year? Is it hard balancing music and acting?

Yes. I'm currently filming a show - that I have been blessed to be a part of - called The Path (on Hulu). I play a character named Caleb Matthews. Season three will start airing early-2018.

Talk to me about your musical heroes. Who are the artists that mean most to you?

I get so inspired by Lenny Kravitz, Pharrell Williams; Adam Levine and CeeLo Green. All of these gentlemen really showed how going against the grain of what the industry may have wanted from them can be beneficial - if you believe in your artistry and what you have to say.

Titus Makin shot by Michael Morgan - 2017-7.jpg

 PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Morgan

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

A good friend of mine, Davie, is a new artist with some FANTASTIC music.

What tour dates do you have coming up? Any U.K. dates coming up?  

I wish! Show dates to be announced soon.

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Usher - 8701

Because it was the real first album I owned and memorized.

Imagine Dragons - Smoke + Mirrors

Because it was my anthem and mood/energy boost for countless days once it was released.

Glee: The Music (all volumes)

Just because a lot happened during that time of my life (being on Glee) - so many songs have tons of amazing memories attached to them.

HEART.jpg

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Believe you're able, believe you're enough; believe in God. Don’t let anyone make you inferior about the talent you have to offer.

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

Thankfully, a lot of the industry shuts down during the holidays; so my plan is to head back to either Arizona or Georgia to be with family.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

I’m currently obsessed with Thunder by Imagine Dragons

__________

Follow Titus Makin

Titus Makin shot by Michael Morgan - 2017-24.jpg

INTERVIEW: Sara Diamond

INTERVIEW:

promo.JPG

 Sara Diamond

________

IN a full and frank interview…

single.JPG

Sara Diamond goes into depth about her music career and spending time in L.A. I ask her about the time in California and whether it was an enriching process – and what the differences are between Montreal (where she is based) and L.A. She talks about the new single, Stay a Little, and what comes next – and whether there are going to be any U.K. dates further ahead.

Diamond discusses her childhood and how she latched onto music young; the artists and sounds she was exposed to – finishing by offering some great advice to new musicians coming into the industry.

________

Hi, Sara. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey, Music Musings (or whoever, by name, is going to be publishing this)! I’m doing great on this lovely Friday morning. Coffeed-up and ready to go. My week has been lovely - I released my third single last Friday; so it’s been wonderful hearing people’s feedback throughout the week. Plus, sessions and as many fall (autumn) runs as possible...

How has your week been?

piano.jpg

For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?

I started singing mannnnyyy moons ago…went back and forth between loving and hating it -kind of like dating.

But, I think we’re married now (weird analogy?). It can be tricky, putting your heart out on the line; making music that goes there. I’m finally getting to a place where I’m learning about the secrets I keep even from myself…so I’m implementing that into my music, which is really liberating.

On a non-music-related note: I LOVE space. It boggles my mind. Everything about the universe we live in…I also love red wine and going on hikes with my friends. Plop me outside and I’m a happy camper. I have a small tattoo on my right ring finger. My hair has always been super curly and I’m finally learning to love it (see picture below…).

pic.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Sara Diamond

I like giving gifts more than I do receiving them. My favourite colour right now is orange….AND…last thing: I love Friday the 13th.  

Stay a Little is your new single. Can you tell me what inspired the song?

I wrote Stay a Little right after my first heartbreak; literally right after.

It was kind of a long time coming…but one of those things you can’t imagine actually happening. I got into my bed; I looked out the window. It was 5:00 A.M. and the sky was just dark. I didn’t want to see the sun or the moon - because both meant acknowledging the truth of the situation. Last night we were together, tomorrow morning we won’t be ‘us’ anymore. The moment seemed to not exist; so I wanted to stay in that space.

In terms of the relationship; I knew every outcome would cause suffering. So, I just wanted to stay in one place and forget about everything. 

Do you think there will be other singles soon? Any E.P. in the pipeline?

Most definitely. Expect a lot more music. I’m just going to be getting it out there, constantly, and passionately.

Life is too short to not put music out.

chair.jpg

I believe you started singing when you were super-young. Singing on the children’s record label, KIDZUP; was that the moment you decided music was your future?

I remember being ten and knowing that I wanted to sing professionally. I mean, I was ten, so I only had superstardom (Hannah Montana 2.0, anyone?) as a benchmark…but the intention was there. It took many years, trial-and-error, to get to the place that I’m in right now…which is the belief that music is my present. If I carry out my life making the best possible present moment, music will be a part of my life forever - as well as all of the things that bring me clarity and joy.

Back in 2008, you told your parents you wanted to go to L.A. What was their reaction?

They kind of chuckled and didn’t think much of it.

I mean, I’m sure three-year-olds telling their parents they want to be famous is a regular and exaggerated occurrence. But, when I got the opportunity, they were the most selfless, supportive; compassionate parents - and they let me go, which I will be forever grateful for because they let me fly and then fall (with no judgment) - and now fly again, in a different way.

Grant Spanier.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT: Grant Spanier

You did arrive there aged fourteen. Was it eye-opening experiencing the city at such a young age?!

It was definitely eye-opening.

I’m from Montreal, and to be honest, I was a very typical fourteen-year-old. I hadn’t been to a party or gotten drunk ever (aside from being tipsy at Passover…but that’s an exception, right?!). I didn’t wear much makeup and I, luckily, grew up in an environment where my peers were all supportive of each other. L.A. was, basically, the opposite…tons of stage moms with twelve-year-olds in full face makeup; dyed and curled hair at like 10 A.M. Tons of backstabbing; tons of gossip. I dealt with more ‘friends’ spreading rumours about each other than I thought was possible…and it was mostly career-driven. I remember getting snuck into an industry party and feeling SO uncomfortable when I was offered a drink (I mean, I was fifteen!). I think the most eye-opening thing was the realization that it’s the people that make life worthwhile.

I was doing some really cool things in LA but I was fifteen-years-old and 3000 miles from my friends and family, trying to be ‘famous’…and it really messed with me. 

flowers.jpg

A girl-band formed and you experienced some ups and downs. Do you think, looking back, it was a positive experience? What did you learn from your time there?

It was 100% a growing experience which, to me, is a positive experience.

Everything in life is either a lesson or a celebration. Either you’re learning and growing or celebrating a moment of clarity. The girl-group, being in L.A., was really taxing on my mental, physical and spiritual health. I was a wreck - but it made me grow up really fast. I took that growth, which could have become destructive, and (just) let it happen with as little judgment as possible. Somehow, I was able to come back to Montreal and not think that I had ‘failed’.  I think that was the biggest gift. I was so miserable in L.A. that being home was such a success…I could be OK, again.

I think the biggest thing being there taught me was that music is therapy. I had nothing to write about because I hadn’t experienced anything, really. I grew up in a bubble. L.A. gave me that shake-up. Everything sort of spiralled downwards for a few years from there - which let me go into the pain and grow out of it. We see mistakes, pain and ‘failure’, as a bad thing: they are the complete opposite. They are the stories that shape us; the building blocks that then become a strong, resilient and beautiful castle.

bal.jpg

Montreal is your base. How does life there differ to that in L.A.?

We get four seasons in Montreal but L.A. gets the ocean and majestic mountains.  

I notice Canada is thriving in regards its music. Why do you think there is such a productivity and quality in the country?

I think, in recent years, more than ever, there is a pride that comes along with being a Canadian musician. It’s not something people feel the need to shy away from to ‘make it’ in the States (or anywhere else). It’s like, ‘no, we’re Canadian, and we have the same talent, determination; ability to connect as anyone else’. We want everyone to succeed. It took a few prominent people working extra-hard and passionately to break the status quo for everyone else. It really is a wonderful thing. Given the political climate in the U.S., other countries need to jump on every opportunity to show that inclusivity, connection; unity and peace are the most important things.

Above ‘making it’; above just about everything.

dream.jpg

What tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we all catch you play?

I’ll keep you posted.

Will you be coming to U.K. anytime soon?

YES! I don’t have a date set yet, but trust me, I will jump on any opportunity to come visit.

car.jpg

If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Amanda Marshall - Everybody’s Got a Story

I used to listen to it ALL the time with my mom when I was younger. I hadn’t listened to the album in full in YEARS….but my mom and I listened recently again and we knew every word. Looking back at it, I realized how much it shaped me as both a listener and a writer. Her honesty, story-telling ability; passion…it all pours out through her.  It’s fantastic…and Amanda Marshall is Canadian.

Justin Nozuka - You I Wind Land and Sea

That album got me through the toughest parts of L.A. I remember listening to it over and over (and over) again. I’ll always have a soft spot for it - purely out of thanks for helping me through those moments.

wall.jpg

PHOTO CREDIT:  IX Daily

Frank Ocean - Channel Orange

Channel Orange was my first experience with music that resonated with me on an artistic level. He was so different - and his music captivated me from the moment I heard it. It really made me realize that you can bend the norms and still produce beautiful, relevant; catchy, honest music. It was a feeling more than anything else, and that really captured my attention, both as a listener and an artist.

What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?

Don’t get caught up in the hype.

There is SO much more to life than views and followers and branding. YES, those things are important, fun and part of the job but it is so easy to get lost in it. I’m like suuuuuuuper-up-and-coming and I still get caught up in it. As a society, we’re losing our connection to something greater- nature, community; human-to-human vulnerability…and music has the ability to bridge that gap, tap into that.

Fame is fleeting: life is even more fleeting. Enjoy every moment of it - even the 'bad’. That’s where you’ll learn the most. Thank your family and friends for guiding you - even if it was through anger and pain. They taught you strength.

flow.jpg

Read a book. Create music with people because they move you. Don’t lose sight of what makes you so perfectly imperfect - that is the zone you want to tap into. That would be my advice. Focus on being the best version of you and you will flourish…and your music will thank you.

Christmas is approaching. Do you all have plans already or will you be busy working?

I’ll be writing music and spending as much time up north as possible.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).

Everybody’s Got a Story by Amanda Marshall (and if you want to be extra-amazing; post the lyrics, too!)

__________

Follow Sara Diamond

sarah.jpg