INTERVIEW: Dear Pressure

INTERVIEW:

Dear Pressure

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THEY are new on the block…

but there is a lot to be excited about when it comes to Dear Pressure. The Canadian duo discuss the single, NEVER, and how they got started in music; Quin and Matt tell me how they came about the name ‘Dear Pressure’; whether there is more material coming up; what they have lined up for Christmas – whether they experiment a lot to create such a catchy song.

I ask about their influences and upbringing; whether there are any gigs coming up before the end of this year; whether Toronto is a great place to create music; advice for any new songwriters emerging – and how this week has fared for the guys.

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

It’s been great, thanks! Really excited about finally having some music out. We’ve also been honing in on some more tunes this week (which has been fun).

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

We’re Quin and Matt. We pretty spend all of our time making tunes at this point - not much else to the story. 

Can I ask just ask about the name, ‘Dear Pressure’? Where does that name stem from?!

We had been messing with a ton of different band-names - and they were all really bad.  None of my friends liked any of the names we had. At a certain point, we were like: “Hey; we should stop giving into peer pressure”. 

We just word-played from there because we're weird…and then, bam, ‘Dear Pressure’ stuck.

 

Your new single, NEVER, is out. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

Matt: NEVER was a tune we made in the summer. We have diverse musical influences; so it’s been (always) a challenge to fuse them in a way that makes sense to ourselves. NEVER was one of those songs that came super-quickly and naturally - within one jam session we had most of the song laid-out. Quin wasn’t completely sold on the song so; I was like: “Dude; listen in the car and you’ll know what I’m talking about”.  

So; we went on a drive and then we both knew it we had something cool on our hands.

Quin: That’s the one good thing about cars.

The song certainly does get into the head! Did it take a look of experimentation and work to perfect its sound? How quickly did it all come together?

Making the actual song itself was easy.

It happened very quickly but we had been trying all sorts of different things for about a year.  We had so many ideas and fragments - and I guess NEVER was the song that put it all together.  

Do you feel you’ll release more material in 2018? What do you have planned?

Yea; we’re releasing an E.P. in 2018.

How did Dear Pressure come together? How long have you guys known one another?

Matt: We met in class but we didn’t talk about music - until one day, where we did talk about music because I was carrying my guitar home. The rest was history…

Quin: I ran into Matt on my way to a friend’s place and he was carrying a guitar. I asked him how he was doing and he said he had been busy with music. We just started talking from there and we showed each other some things we were working on.  

Is it a pretty good place to record music, Toronto? Why is it proving so attractive and fertile for new music?

Matt: Right now; Quin and I could be on the beach if this wasn’t Canada – but, instead, it’s minus-seventeen; so we were stuck inside recording tunes. Not really complaining about either: it’s a pretty great thing to be stuck doing. 

What sort of music did you both grow up on? Do you both come from eclectic households, musically?

Yea; we both listen to a lot of different genres. 

Quin: I grew up in Hong Kong. They play a lot of Cantopop there. But, I spent most of my time alone in front of my computer. So, when I was thirteen or so, I discovered Radiohead and The National (through the game, Portal 2) and got really into them - and then I found U.K. Garage and Dubstep tunes deep into YouTube. It’s funny; because I was just some kid who had never even been to Europe, let alone a rave or a club. But it got me into producing music – Electronic music, music with laptops.

So; I thank the Internet for that.

Matt: I’m really all over the map: I grew up listening to a lot of Blues music. I’m a huge SRV, Jimi Hendrix and BB King fan. I always go back to those records, especially Axis: Bold as Love by Hendrix and Live at the Regal by B.B. King. I also love Psychedelic-Rock.

I dig some of the modern incarnations of it - especially Tame Impala.  

IN THIS PHOTO: Joseph Ember

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

We’ve been working with our buddy Joseph Ember a lot. He’s about to drop some fire

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

Quin: Untrue by Burial – or, maybe, Blonde by Frank Ocean

Matt: Empyrean - John Frusciante

I just think it is the best late-night album of all time (late-night if you’re alone and sad, though). The guy is a genius.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

We’re really focused on getting the record done first and then we’ll play - down the road for sure...

Do you think you’ll come to the U.K. and perform next year?

That’s the dream.

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

I think we’re coming through right now: so; if anyone has any advice for us, let us know…

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

We have plans to work - we’re always working.

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

River Tiber’s Patience is blowing our minds

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Follow Dear Pressure

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dearpressure/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dearpressure/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/dearpressure

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/dearpressure

INTERVIEW: Percival Elliott

INTERVIEW:

Percival Elliott

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OLLY and Samuel form Percival Elliott….

and, before I got down to things, I had to ask the origin of that name! The guys talk about the track, Forever, and what we can expect from their album, Save Your Soul. I ask whether artists like Father John Misty are important to them – as their sound reminds me of him – and what acts they are inspired by; whether there is going to be any touring; what the scene is like on the South Coast – and some names we need to look out for.

The guys have supported Fatboy Slim so I ask what that was like; if they have plans formed for next year; how this week has played out for them – and how they will be spending this Christmas.

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

Olly: Yea, good...I sold a Chinese bronze antique censer at auction for a friend today. I made a good price - and made a good friend very happy.

It’s been great putting Forever out; let’s see how she flies…so, yes, been a good week. How do you do? 

Samuel: It’s been an amazing week, thank you. I’ve had the great pleasure of working with some young bands with great promise in the studio. 

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

Olly: Good day to you. We are Percival Elliott - and we write songs that move the listener, tap into the heart; shake it about then put it back in. Musical surgeons; digital doctors, if you please.

That is our job - and we love it.

Samuel: We are a band who loves all genres of music and have stitched together the beautiful sounds of a string-quartet with the clashing chords of Grunge. Just wait until you hear the rest of the album.

Forever is just the beginning...

I am interested in the name, ‘Percival Elliott’. Olly. I believe its origin has something to do with your great-grandfather. Tell me more about him… 

Olly: Well; my father informs me he was a right old English eccentric: loved his country and those around him. Apparently, very unpredictable. He would sometimes go missing for days; only to return with exciting ideas and new inventions...he was the heart of the family and a kind man. He would dress like a gentleman, whistle and hum to himself all the time. My grandma said he believed in time-travel.

I just love that! 

Samuel: We have the most amazing pictures of Mr. Elliott and his family. He really does look like a time-traveller. It was a no-brainer to name the band after such a gent. 

 

Forever is the new song from you guys. What is the background to the track?

Olly: Butterflies...blushing, love and hope.

Samuel: Love, life and everything in-between. Have you ever met someone who has enchanted your heart so much that you’d never want the feeling to fade?! Forever is the story of eternal love: the kind of love which is written about centuries after the initial spark.  

It is the first single from the album, Save Your Soul. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the new record?

Olly: Sam and I are both music fans - so the album is an eclectic mixed bag. It’s Folk-meets-Pop-meets-Rock-meets-more-familiar-sounds. We jump from singing about stalkers, to love songs; to party people.

It’s a good record, so we believe.

Samuel: We even have a ditty about a cat entitled Captain - inspired by Cat from Hell by Lynn Truss. One of my favourite tracks has to be Betty: the story of a young lady who has lost her way - accompanied by the sounds of Supertramp and Queen.

I think Betty will have to be the next single. 

Your new single has that reliable mix of vocal harmonies and hard-hitting piano sounds. Names like Father John Misty and Jeff Buckley come to mind. Are these artists who have inspired your work?

Olly: Well read. Mr. Misty is on the button right now - and Mr. Buckley has scared many a heart. Both, like many old and new artists, have been an influence on this record.  

Samuel: Father John Misty’s work is thought-provoking, mystical and highly entertaining. Josh Tillman really knows how to create a mood and traps you in that moment like an Englishman in a queue at the Post Office. 

Buckley is timeless: Grace is an album that never fails to inspire me. It’s my go-to album when I have writer's block. 

Which artists did you grow up listening to? Which musicians have inspired your own music?

Olly: Elton John, The Beatles; Neil Finn, Tom Petty; The Doors, The Beach Boys; Queen, Mr. Misty.

Cor! Sound like a festival I’d die for...

Samuel: I was brought up in a musical family with varied taste; so I was exposed to the likes of Megadeath, Asia, Anathema; Gary Numan, Peter Gabriel; right over to Classical and Jazz. At a young age, my old man would allow me to go through his vinyl collection and put on whatever I liked.

Extremely trusting of him. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Sabrina Claudio

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Olly: Sam? 

Samuel: I’m loving Sabrina Claudio at the moment. Her latest album is beautiful.

The latest Steven Wilson album was a lesson in Pop music production. It’s stunning - and one to check out. 

If you each had the chance to choose the one album that means the most to you – which would they be? 

Olly: Elton John - Yellow Brick Road

Samuel: Cor; that’s unfair. Queen – Innuendo

It’s incredibly heartbreaking. 

You guys have performed to sell-out audiences and supported Fatboy Slim! What has been the highlight of your career so far?

Olly: Hard to call. We have and are having such fun. My favourite thing is grabbing new ears, turning heads with our work…but I do love playing in a classic London venue: you can sometimes feel the Rock history seeping through the walls. 

Samuel: The highlight of any show/tour, for me, is that moment right before you hit the stage. The moment of uncertainty...it’s like peering over the edge of the Grand Canyon. 

Is there any advice you would give to fellow artists coming through right now?

Olly: Embrace technology: it’s never been so good for artists to get their works on tape...and never burn a bridge...unless you got a rowing boat, Sam (smiles). 

Samuel: Write, record and release: the world needs to hear your music. 

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have coming up? 

Olly: Icebreaker Festival in Portsmouth, England. It’s one of my favourite shows. It’s all going off musically in Pompey…look out for pirates!

Samuel: In February; we will be playing Icebreaker Festival. For me, this is a home-town show. I love the local festivals - as you get to hang out with the most amazing musicians and friends. There is a real community spirit to the day. 

You are based on the South Coast. What is the music scene like there? Is it a great place to find inspiration? 

Olly: The beach...Brighton is a melting pot of artists and musicians; Portsmouth is buzzing with the live music scene.

Samuel: Portsmouth is amazing for music. We have the likes of Jerry Williams, Marley Blandford; Kassisin Street and Coax - the list could go on and on. 

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

Olly: I intend to watch Bedknobs and Broomsticks on-repeat with my 1860 glass goblet and some vintage port and cheese. I will probably sing a few carols around the Joanna. Just time out with friends and family. 

Samuel: Christmas is all about spending time with the family…and Doctor Who!

What ambitions and aims do you have for 2018? 

Olly: Make people smile, laugh and love...that’ll do nicely.

Samuel: Live, learn and to be excellent to each other. 

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).

Olly: Drive My Car - The Beatles

Samuel: I Went to the Store One Day – Father John Misty (Groundhog Day for lovers)

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Follow Percival Elliott

Official:

http://www.percivalelliott.co.uk/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/PercivalElliott/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/percivalelliott/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ElliottPercival?lang=en

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPHgX4k7Ei0zgXtulQk6f8w

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/percival-elliott

INTERVIEW: Line & Circle

INTERVIEW:

 PHOTO CREDIT: Courthey Halverson  

Line & Circle

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THINGS are rather eventful and fraught…

in L.A. right now – it is understandable the guys of Line & Circle have had a busy and unpredictable time of things. I speak to them about the wildfires in California and how they have been; how the band all got together and the type of music that compels them; what they are planning for Christmas; some new acts to recommend – and advice for new artists.

I ask them about their new E.P., Vicious Folly, and the themes/stories that go into them; what it was like to record and how it feels getting such a positive reaction – and whether there is going to be any more material coming next year.

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

Nice to meet you, Sam. Our new record just came out so it’s been busy here (but fun and exciting). Our release show is tonight - which we’re looking forward to. We’re playing at a new venue called Basic Flowers in downtown Los Angeles (which sort of feels like an after-hours art museum with a bar).

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

Line & Circle officially began with the release of our first 7” Roman Ruins on the White Iris label (based in Los Angeles). That led to our first tours across the States; which we used to develop songs for our debut, self-titled E.P. and our first full-length called Split Figure. Now, this new E.P., Vicious Folly, has just arrived - which we finished earlier this year up at The National’s new studio in Hudson, New York. 

 PHOTO CREDIT: Courthey Halverson  

I believe you started life in Ohio – but have moved to L.A. What was the decision to move from Ohio? What is the music scene like where you are?

I still love Ohio and return frequently but change can be good - especially when you are seeking artistic inspiration from your environment and to be challenged by new circumstances. I had been coming to Los Angeles on-and-off before moving here - and good things kept happening whenever I visited. So I stayed. Maybe there is a music scene here, currently, but we don’t feel particularly attached to it...

Despite that, the friendships and creative partnerships we’ve formed here are deeply fulfilling and have made our work better.

PHOTO CREDIT: Megan McIsaac

How did you all find one another way back? Did you start recording music soon after meeting?

Good people beget good people, I like to think.

We all met through family and friends and got to working together very quickly thereafter. Finding others to be creative with can be tricky but, when you’re lucky enough to meet people you can speak a similar or complementary language with, you’re off and running. 

Vicious Folly is your new E.P. I like the contradictory title. What is the meaning behind the title?

The title-track of the E.P. was sort of born by attempting to process the events of the past couple years. I got curious about similar periods in history, where it felt like society was betraying its best values. The trial and death of Socrates came to mind: when a society was so shaken by its fall from grace that it turned on its own greatest thinker; blamed him for its decline and then killed him.

This became a bigger theme for the song, the video and the whole record — how our painful struggle for advancement can sometimes lead people to violent actions they might not have otherwise considered.

PHOTO CREDIT: Issue Magazine

What sort of themes and subjects inspired the E.P.’s creation?

The record sort of explores this belief the Romans had centuries ago: Homo homini lupus — man is a wolf to (his fellow) man. So, each song kind of ponders this idea that man himself is his own greatest threat. Man Uncouth describes this in the context of a romantic relationship; Who Runs Wild in the context of a mother-daughter conflict and Mid Bloom takes a more optimistic view – that, despite the dark turn of recent events, there is always hope real societal good can eventually spring forth as a result. Man can be a wolf to man - but he is also the only one who can save him.

The album-art became helpful in tying this all together as well. The images come from Peter Flötner's hand-painted playing cards from 16th century Germany. He used the imagery to sort of call out the perceived greed, gluttony and folly of his time. It felt so oddly modern discovering these in 2017 which, for better or worse, is a testament to some of the more enduring aspects of human behavior. Hopefully, in another five centuries, things will be…different?

Your music has garnered positive reaction from the likes of Rolling Stone. Does it provide you energy and inspiration receiving that kind of backing?!

Whenever anyone connects with our music; it feels wonderful. We’ve been getting more personal notes from people this time around, too - which makes me feel like we’re doing something right. That is inspiring. To be able to offer something up that a listener can actually internalize and complete the loop, so to speak, is crucial.

When it’s a positive reaction, all the better.

Tell me about the songs and artists you all grew up on. Which artists did you idolise when you were young?

There was a fair amount of Simon & Garfunkel and Neil Diamond in my parents’ cars growing up - which I feel lucky to have absorbed because the quality of that song-craft is superb and timeless. There was a Guns N’ Roses phase very early on: I would draw pictures of them. Oasis was totally enthralling as well - which later became a gateway for lots of the usual seminal English Rock bands (which I still hold dear; like The Smiths).  

PHOTO CREDIT: Megan McIsaac

I have seen the images of Californian wildfires! Have you guys been caught up in it?! What has been your reaction to it?

We’ve been fortunate that they haven’t impacted us directly…but the damage has been severe and this is incredibly sad. Entire neighborhoods have been destroyed; many animals have been trapped - it’s really awful. This is the latest the fire season has lasted, maybe ever; which certainly hasn’t been helped by the drought and whatever influence climate change is having. That the city is, literally, on fire is, of course, an on-the-nose metaphor for much of 2017 in general...

Thankfully, the year is coming to an end - and, hopefully, the fires will, too.

IN THIS PHOTO: Omni/PHOTO CREDIT: Sebastian Weiss

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m fond of the band Omni (from Atlanta) - who put out a great record this year. 

Is there any advice you would give to artists coming through right now?

I’m not sure we’re the ones to ask but I think all you can do is work as hard as possible - and continue passionately making things for as long as you can. Do as much as you can yourself and don’t wait for anyone to make something happen for you. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Issue Magazine

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? Will you come to the U.K.?

We have more West Coast stuff coming in the New Year. We would love to come to the U.K. under any circumstances — hopefully, very soon.

PHOTO CREDIT: Issue Magazine

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

Working on new songs - but there may be some latkes and a hot chocolate or two in the near-future. L.A. is typically nice this time of year because the city gets very quiet and the streets become empty…but it’s still kinda beautiful and warm.

What do you have planned for next year? Will there be more material?

I was just sifting through all of our new demos and there is already more new stuff than we can use for the next record. I’m going to finish writing a few more this month and then the plan is to get back in the studio sometime in February.

In the meantime; we’ll keep playing shows in support of the new E.P.

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).

Since it is winter-time (even in L.A.)...

Sixty Degrees Below by Love Tractor (Brian)

Autodidact by Swervedriver (Eric)

Fortune by Dead Can Dance (Jon)

Take a Chance With Me by Roxy Music (Garrett)

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Follow Line & Circle

 PHOTO CREDIT: Courthey Halverson   

Official:

http://www.lineandcirclemusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/lineandcirclemusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lineandcircle/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/LineAndCircle

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/lineandcirclemusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/lineandcircle

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6POniDj9dnMFhNsQ63MCB4

INTERVIEW: Breakers

INTERVIEW:

 Breakers

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THERE is good music and awesome vibes brewing…

in the kitchen of Breakers! The guys have been slammed and hectic lately – the interview has been out to them for a bit – but, as I find out; the boys have been promoting hard and getting their new track, Get in Line, out to the people. I ask them about their E.P., Redrum, and how this song differs; whether there is going to be new material next year; whether their crowd-funded E.P. (Redrum) was an important experience; how important small-town unemployment and isolation is to them – and what it was like filming the video for Get in Line.

I discover which artists/albums are most important to the band’s ethos; what gigs they have up their sleeves; how each of them will be spending their Christmases; a few new acts that are worth checking out – and how the band got together in the first place.

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

Our week has been good.

Really hyped to be sharing new music. (Sorry it has taken so long to get back to you). The run-up to Xmas is always busy for all the gigging and various things.

Thanks for asking us to do an interview...

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

We are Breakers - a Rock band from the South East. We've just released our new single, Get in Line - which is a follow up to our debut E.P., Redrum.  

Get in Line is the new single. Can you tell me its background and story?

The song is about trying to live up to responsibilities in life; hence, 'get in line' in our changing social environment. We also wanted to write something that had a banging riff (which, hopefully, we have achieved).

I get a sense there is a concern regarding unemployment in smaller towns. Have you noticed areas you once lived in change? Do you worry about the way Britain is changing – and how most of the money is localised to the cities?

There was is an element of that.

Jamie (bassist) and I worked in a guitar shop for a while - which was good when we were younger. We've both moved on from there. I moved to London and I've found opportunity a lot easier to come by: Jamie moved into working (for systems) for the NHS. I think what I was trying to say, with Get in Line, was that things change and you've got to move with the times. Everything is more centralised but opportunities don't come to those who wait - you've got to go out and get it.

Localised money wasn't something I was too concerned with when writing this song...although, I'm not a big fan of the financial industry and what it's done to the world in general - and how they seem to keep getting away with it. But, saying that, I know people who work in it and they are good people. But, I also dislike the apathy some people have in smaller towns towards social problems - and blaming it on London and/or immigration.

I think Get in Line was musing that people - and myself included - have to be motivated and work for what you want: no one is gonna do it for you. If you don't like something, do something about it.

The video for Get in Line sees you performing whilst being lit by flashing lights! What was it like working on the video with director Simon Stolland?

Yes; that was great fun.

We did it in a space near the Blackwall Tunnel. Shooting the video was great. Simon managed to get some lights for us and our friend, Love, operated them by syncing the intensity of the strobe to the intensity (of the sections) of the song. The drone freaked out when with the strobes came on and almost gave us all a haircut - but it came out great.

Get in Line follows the E.P., Redrum. Have you noticed a change and development in your music since then? How have Breakers evolved since then?

I think we've become a bit more concise with our sound...

We seem to be straddling an Indie-Rock/Post-Hardcore sound now rather than Redrum - which is more bluesy-Rock in places. Lyrically, Get in Line, and the single which will follow (Run) are a bit more politically-charged, I suppose – although, I think some songs on the first E.P. were some of my best lyrics. Some of the songs came out in a blur and I'm still trying to figure out what they mean. I like that about lyric-writing (when they are a bit subconscious) i.e.  they make sense but your not really sure why; letting the words flow through, rather passively, than really trying to get a message across. There is always a message, I think...

Sometimes; my lyrics are just my subconscious and my conscious mind trying to work stuff out.

That E.P. was crowd-funded and afforded backers the chance to see you perform at (the sold-out) show at the Sebright Arms. Do you think you will take that approach (crowd-funding) for your next work?

We would like to do another crowd-funded thing but we also were really grateful for to those supported - and we didn't want to keep taking money off people. The next release; everything is pretty much free - and that's the way things are now. The Kickstarter campaign was great for getting people hyped for the gig; it is a great model if you’re putting on your own show. We got way more people at that show then the nights we normally play - which are normally poorly promoted. But, being a grass-roots promoter week-in-week-out is hard work - and not something I would do.

But 'pay-to-play', which I have done in the past with other bands, should be outlawed.

Is there going to be more material next year?

Our new single, Run, will be out over Christmas - and you’re the first people we have told.

Take me back to the start. How did Breakers get together? Did you all come from very different backgrounds?

Me and Jamie meet at the guitar shop. I joined a covers band with Scott, Ollie and Jamie (which is still going) and then we decided to do an originals project. I was from Stortford and they were from Hertford - not particularly different backgrounds. We spent a long time in practice rooms before releasing any music, which was good; so we came out with lots of material (which was great).

The first time I rehearsed with Ollie; it was really hot and he took his top off as he was sweating. It was gross and hilarious. (But his playing was immense). He’s a shredding-machine - so no-one minded. We practice, mainly, on this farm in the middle of nowhere (which is nice).

It’s been a great journey so far - and we are really pleased with how things are going.

Which artists did you all grow up listening to? Who are the musicians that have inspired your own music?

Jamie is into Punk, Pop and Pop-Punk; Scot is into Blues; Ollie loves AC/DC.;I love Indie, Post-Hardcore and Rock. We all like Q.O.t.S.A. (Queens of the Stone Age) and their ltest album – so, that was a big influence. But, generally, our music tastes are quite different, which I think is quite good - and make us sound like us.

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

We did a playlist of guys we've played with this year and who we liked You can find it on our Spotify page. It’s got The Scruff, Veridian and Baron Goodlove - who we played with recently and was a great show.

IN THIS PHOTO: Baron Goodlove

If you each had the chance to choose the one album that means the most to each of you – which would they be?

Alex: Vaya - At the Drive-In

Jamie: Cartel - Chroma

Scot: Nickelback - Silver Side Up

Ollie: Back in Black – AC/DC

Is there any advice you would give to artists coming through right now?

Don't do it…unless you love music.

Then do it!

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

5th Jan (2018) at The Finsbury

19th Jan at Rose and Crown, Stortford

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

We will all be celebrating with family and friends, which is what it's all about, and releasing our new single, Run - with a hilarious video which we shot ourselves. People seem to dig our funny videos.

Our last video, Salty, went semi-viral on Face(palm)book.

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).

My Love - Baron Goodlove & The Dreadful Noise

(P.S. Sorry I broke your amp).

________

 Follow Breakers

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/breakerstheband

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/breakerstheband/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/breakerstheband

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeEdOH9giIFoPvTvwq0G72g

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/breakers-the-band

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/5DUrsbkYRdLKZ7t0AaOTCO

INTERVIEW: LA River Bend

INTERVIEW:

LA River Bend

_________

AS I battle various agencies regarding certain artists…

and their lax attention to my interview process - I have been provided solace and balm in the form of California’s LA River Bend. The quartet consists Nate Weiner, Emily Elkin; Branden Stroup and Jacob Seldes. I ask Weiner about the band’s formation and how integral the percussion is to the overall sound; whether there is more material coming next year – and what the story behind the new single, Mountain, is.

I find out whether the American band are coming to the U.K. and how LA River Bend developed over time; the artists (new and old) that influence their sound; how this Christmas is fixed; what stories and themes go into their new E.P. – and whether the L.A. music scene is as healthy and thriving as ever!

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

Sure thing! My name is Nate Weiner. I'm the lead singer-songwriter of the band. 

Mountain is the new single from you. What inspired the track?

Mountain is definitely an inspirational track; one of positivity in the face of adversity. Originally, it was a testament to the band and our struggles pursuing music. I think it can be applied universally, though, to whatever obstacles we face in the day-to-day.

Do you all pitch lines and music? How do songs form for the band?

All of the songs on this E.P., I wrote first and then brought to the band for their parts. A song like Summer Wind: I had ideas of parts but needed to flesh them out with the band. That collaborative process has only increased and we are writing more collectively. I bring an idea, chords and melody to the band and, from there, we fine-tune parts/dynamics etc.

It's become very much a full-band process.

LA River Bend are known for the infectious harmonies and stirring arrangements. Are there any particular musicians that have inspired that course? Which artists did you all grow up listening to?

Branden and Emily are great at coming up with harmonies that fit my melodies. Sometimes, I have some ideas but they are so talented and well-versed with scale structure - they are the pros! Emily, of course, brings beautiful string parts to every song. Emily loves The Beatles - and I think that harmony background has helped her. I, myself, listened to a lot of Beach Boys growing up - and Branden was singing choir through college at N.Y.U.

The band began life as the backing for your solo album, Ride the Sun. How important and memorable was that time? Was there a moment when you all stepped from the shadows into the spotlight of LA River Bend?

Although I am comfortable as a solo artist; I love the comradery of a band. When we all play together and come up with our parts, it is a collaborative process. When I hear us play we sound like four people in a band - not myself with a backing band. I wouldn't say there was a definite moment...but I think the goal was to always have a band.

It seems Seldes’ drumming adds new measure and dynamics to the music. How important is that drumming to your overall sound?

Very important! Without Jacob, we would still be an acoustic Folk band. With the addition of his drumming styles; we can blur the lines between more genres - and keep growing as musicians and as a band.

The new E.P., Run These Hills, was self-recorded by Stroup. Was Stroup’s appointment a natural one? What was it like having Eric Boulanger mix the E.P.?

Branden and I started to work together, musically, when he mixed my solo album. Branden is a professional recording engineer making a name for himself (now) in L.A. It was a very natural decision. Branden actually tracked and mixed our E.P. - Eric Boulanger handled the mastering for us. That was great working with him; it was only for the one day. This was a D.I.Y. self-made release until that point so it was great to see a seasoned professional makes his way through our tunes. Plus his place, The Bakery, is awesome.

It's a converted screening room on the Sony Pictures lot - very cool!

Are there any particular inspiration points and moments that led to the songs’ creation? How instrumental and pivotal were relationships and personal revelations when it came to the songwriting?!

The songs were written over such a long period of time that it covers a lot of phases and moments of my life. The songs definitely capture my twenties experience to a large degree. I started writing, primarily, on acoustic guitar and eventually incorporated writing on my Tele. Two early songs that are on the E.P., Don't Get Lost and Fighting the Night, were written on acoustic and stayed so for the recording. I wrote Don't Get Lost as I was approaching breaking up with my girlfriend at the time. Definitely, I was not as fully aware of that in the moment - but I was writing a lot of songs then that were leading to the same conclusion.

There is a glimmer of hope, lyrically, at the end of that tune - but definitely didn't pan out in real life. My father was also dying from a bout with A.L.S. at the time and that, combined with ending the relationship with my girlfriend, came the space to write Fighting the Night. After the girlfriend break-up - and right before my father's eventual passing - I was having a real steady string of drunken nights.

One exceptionally bad one stood out - and a lot of that imagery from that night was put into the song.

Which track from the E.P. means most to each of you?

I have to say I'm the proudest of Mountain; just because I can hear everybody shine so well in it - and we really came together as a family on that one. We, obviously, play it a lot live and I've heard i a thousand times…but I still dig it. Honestly; all of the tracks hold a special part for me but I see Mountain as a definite launching point for the band and the sound we are exploring now.

Is the L.A. music scene as buzzing as ever? What is life like there for a young band?

I feel like there is so much talent and so much great music in L.A.

It is so great to see bands that we know finding more and more success. It makes us feel good, too, knowing that what we like could is getting real buzz and success. The bands and musicians we hang out with in L.A. have the music down - that is what we focus on first and foremost. The possible downside to that, which we have experienced, is that the marketing and image take a backseat to that - and, often, there are times you need that to get in the door and stick out from the pack.

Everything beyond the music that goes into being a band makes it a full-time job and can be overwhelming at times - but we're always learning and enjoying the process.

Are there times when it seems a career in music is far-fetched? How do you overcome these doubts?

I definitely think a career in music is far-fetched all of the time, for me, personally.

Emily and Branden are professionals in the music industry here in L.A., though; they make it work. Emily is constantly playing gigs as a cellist - she played with Lindsay Sterling recently and has a string of upcoming shows with Thee Oh Sees. Branden is a professional audio engineer - currently working at Val Garay's The Barn and Sound Space Studio. If you're a creative person; the best thing you can do to overcome doubts and anxiety is to just keep creating.

I'm lucky to be in a band with my friends...and we're part of a beautiful music family here in L.A.; that alone is fuc*ing amazing. Personally, as a songwriter and musician, I'm just going to keep trying to get better and keep making music. Even if a full-blown career never materializes; I will be playing music forever.

It's more of a lifestyle than a career...

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

There are some amazing artists that we have played with over the years. If you haven't checked out Young Creatures, you definitely should. Their tunes and vibe is infectious. We'll be playing with them soon in March at their residency at The Satellite in Silverlake.

I also would recommend my buddy Austin Antoine - who used to hold the Guinness World Record for the longest freestyle rap, until recently, I believe. Not only is he an amazing rapper and freestyler but he gigs harder than anybody I know.

IN THIS PHOTO: Austin Antoine

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

This is a tough one: there is a library of records that are very important to me. I'd say Mason Jennings' Use Your Voice was where it all started for me as far as songwriting. I learned how to play every song on that record and after that started writing songs of my own. That album was the launching pad for a lot of influential music for the early days of my songwriting. I discovered Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen; was also listening to a lot of Jack Johnson, Ben Harper; Matt Costa, Alexi Murdoch etc. I dove right in. Mason is by far one of my favorites. That album and the documentary, Use Your Van, was highly inspirational.

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

Keep plugging away to find your unique sound...

Even if your sound is really similar to another artist, or locked in a lot of genre clichés; as long as it is honest and true then it is in the right direction.

What tour dates do you have approaching? Are you heading to the U.K. soon?

We would love to head to the U.K. - if it was financially doable. It would be a lil bit of an expense for us. At the moment; we have to sit back on lengthy touring. Right now, we are looking at doing weekend tours and one-off shows out of town. Honestly; we really need to keep building up our local presence before we can entertain any big touring...

We would love to play festivals, though - that is something we need to be a part of.

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

Out of four members: three of us are Jewish...although we end up celebrating both holidays. We have some fun Hanukkah plans this weekend and, of course, Christmas parties around the corner after that. We have a gig coming up at the start of the New Year. Right now, we are just trying to push the Run These Hills E.P. as much as we can - and hopefully play a lot more gigs (as much as we can)!

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).

First of all: sorry for taking SUPER-LONG on getting this interview back: it's been a very busy couple of weeks. In the spirit of the holidays, though; I will dedicate three songs for my three bandmates Emily, Branden and Jacob - because it is 10:18 P.M. - and this interview is way overdue.

For Branden; I will choose one of our old favorites: No Rain (Ripped Away Version) by Blind Melon. Classic 1990s at its best

For Emily; Two-Headed Boy by Neutral Milk Hotel. She played it at a party recently and I had never heard it. It was one of her old favorites - and I love the emotion in this song

For Jacob; 24K Magic by Bruno Mars - he knows why. We have a lot of artists and bands we love - Snarky Puppy, Local Natives - but Bruno Mars seems right for this dedication

________

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Facebook:

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SoundCloud:

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INTERVIEW: The Luck

INTERVIEW:

 The Luck

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THE brother-sister duo The Luck…

have unveiled their incredible new single, Rise and Shine. I ask them about the song and filming its video; working with Paul Broucek in L.A.; how important bands like Fleetwood Mac are to them; why they decided to take up music in the first place – what gigs they have in the pipeline.

Max and Esmay talk about the artists that have inspired their sound; which new artists we should look out for; how the rest of the year will pan out; whether the London-based duo will perform in the U.S. at all next year – and whether there is new music coming anytime soon.

________

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

Max: Hi! We are a brother/sister duo from London called The Luck - I’m Max and this is my sister, Esmay Luck. 

Rise and Shine is your new track. Can you tell me about its origins and what inspired it?

Esmay: Well, we were down in Los Angeles and I had been listening to one of my favourite songs of all time – Pink Floyd’s Comfortably Numb. Our producer had lent us a Nashville tuned acoustic guitar - and I picked it up to play along and learn the song. When it finished, I just started noodling about and this chord progression developed. Within about ten minutes, all the melodies for the verse and chorus flowed out along with the lyric "I don’t want to live a lie". I recorded it on my phone but didn’t work on the lyrics until I got back to London a couple of months later. I wanted to mull over how the song made me feel, sonically...and thought there was something really powerful in the sentiment of that line - it was instinctive and guttural. It made me think of some past relationships I had had…

I found the title ‘Rise and Shine’ in an old lyric notebook and when I sang it with the lyric, “I don’t want to live a lie", it took on a new meaning for me. It seemed to perfectly match the song - I wanted to write about not giving in; about taking yourself out of a negative place in your life and coming back stronger than before. I took it to Max when we got back to the Bay Area in California - and he helped hone some of the lines and built an incredible arrangement for it! 

Max: This song really hooked me from the first listen; I didn’t want to blow it out of proportion too much but I felt like it was an undeniably powerful song and a great single. I had been experimenting with a Telecaster and VOX amp our producer had lent us and wanted to make the nod towards Pink Floyd...but also really bring out the harmonies and the blend - which was so easy when Esmay sang me the chorus. We had the use of a piano up in the Bay Area; so I focussed on working a piano part into the acoustic and electric guitar parts…and this arrangement was born. I did a rough mix and sent it to our producer - and he got pretty psyched. So, we went back to Los Angeles, into Capitol Records’ Studio A and I recorded the piano part to Rise and Shine on that Yamaha piano that has been used on so many incredible songs - including Prince’s Purple Rain.

It was one of the highlights of my whole life.   

 

The video mixes drama and a certain cool! Was it quite fun to film? Did you have a lot of input when it came to the final result?

Esmay: It was fun to film - although the song is quite serious.

The Vertex team were great to work with too. We had a couple of conversations with Jeff Thomas, the director, working out different approaches. Max and I had discussed telling the story of a girl who was struggling to leave a bad relationship and we wanted to draw on the complexity of emotions that involves – and, ultimately, the courage and conviction it takes to walk away. 

Max: Eme and I also knew we didn’t want to be in the video - we didn’t want to dilute the message with performance-pieces - and we wanted to give Jeff more creative license with the visuals. When looking at locations, we all agreed that a cityscape (L.A., specifically) - felt the most real to us all. The light is also beautiful in that city and the song had been half-written there. Jeff found great locations and, of course, the actors, Jenna Putnam and John Hoyos - both of whom were just right for the parts and had worked together before.

There were so many great moments - and Jeff captured it all perfectly. 

Max and Esmay. You are brother-and-sister. I am guessing you have a very tight bond. When did you realise you wanted to go into music together?

Esmay: Yes; we do and actually. Growing up; it was listening to music that bonded us. Mum and Dad used to always put on music in the car and in the kitchen (the latter is where we spent most of our time together as a family). So, we grew up listening to the same stuff and, when Max started going through a Californian Punk-Rock phase in his teens - he would play the songs to me too. Max is four years older than me and would take me to shows when I was only about twelve-years-old…got some pretty funny memories of being in these mosh-pits surrounded by Max and his mates! They all had younger siblings, too - so that was pretty good fun.

I clearly had the issue that anything Max did, I wanted to do too! Hahaha. I feel quite lucky he would have me tag along like that. 

Max: Yeah; those were great times. It just felt really natural to get Em along for the show. I guess I wanted her to experience the things that I enjoyed; see what I was getting excited about because then we could laugh about it or get psyched etc. But, we never thought of making music together - or even pursuing music as a career - until we were both in our twenties. We had each grown up learning instruments and singing in choirs separately a bit but ultimately had gone into more different careers (I went into finance and Esmay did marketing). We had never even sung together before! It all kind of happened by accident…we both were really unhappy at our jobs. I had become a solo artist after leaving my job in the city and started sending Esmay songs for feedback...

She’d be at her desk and I’d be emailing her these songs - and she would listen and make lyric or melody suggestions in her lunch hour. Then, we found ourselves both in New York at the same time and sat down to write a song from scratch together called Bricks. We were in the East Village back in May 2011. I was staying in an apartment I had found on Craigslist, and my flat-mate,  who was a super-talented creative studying at N.Y.U. came out of his room and said “Woah; I don’t know what you guys are working on but I just got goosebumps through the wall”. I think we knew there and then that this was something worth pursuing for a bit. Esmay had been frustrated in her job up until that point and was seeking something more creative career-wise - having shied away from going to art school when she was eighteen.

Bricks brought a fork in the road for us both - and we didn’t want to live to regret not 'going for it'. 

Esmay: Totally…I was really shy about singing solo in front of anyone but I didn’t want to let my lack of confidence hold me back again. Max really helped me with this - he booked us in to a studio on Avenue B to record the song; found a wonderful vocal trainer called Sonia Jones in London to help me get over the fear of singing in front of people - and helped me find the courage to get up on stage at his best friend’s wedding for my first performance.

I think that was our first gig together! 

I hear elements of older acts like Fleetwood Mac in your music. Which artists did you bond to at a young age? Do you take influence from a lot of modern acts?

We definitely bonded over Fleetwood Mac when we were growing up - I remember hearing songs like Everywhere in the car as a kid. I remember one year we went to Colorado and we were in a restaurant and they were playing Country music. My mum asked who was playing and they said, “Oh, honey, it's Garth Brooks". So, the No Fences album made its way back over to the U.K. and would come on lots of car journeys when we were young…that and Sgt Pepper’s.

Sort of eclectic, but always great, Pop writing. 

Max: Oh man, Garth Brooks. Haha. Legend. It’s funny, I definitely have a lot of time for those big guitars they have in Country-Rock - Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton - and those influences run through quite a lot of the arrangements we put together. We bonded over Country music, Punk-Rock and quite a few bands of the 1960s and 1970s. Fleetwood's The Chain and Tom Petty’s Runnin' Down a Dream are probably two of my all-time favorite songs and, when we were staying in California, we'd put on these albums; I’d make cocktails, Em would cook her famous chicken pasta and we’d just jump around and be silly - listening to this music that we both loved.

We also really got into The War on Drugs these past few years.

You have been working with Paul Broucek in L.A. What was it like working in the city and with such an important figure?!

Esmay: Paul is such an extraordinary person! He is anything but ordinary; growing up in Chicago and moving to the West Coast to work in music, creating with some of the most incredible musicians of our lifetimes - and playing a huge part in some of the most epic film scores and soundtracks of our day…

Well, we both feel so lucky to be working with him. We met him a few years ago in London and started working together on recordings a couple of years ago when we were in L.A. He has been incredibly encouraging, thoughtful and instinctive. He has helped us find our studio sound! Starting relatively late as songwriters and performers; we have spent our time honing who we are as artists - figuring out what we wanted to say; how we wanted to sound. Paul helped us understand how to build out the sound of our songs to make a full-band record, whilst retaining the essence of what we do when it’s just the two of us. As well as listening to all of our previously-released music and all the demos we had ever made, Paul came to our shows and had us perform a couple of showcases at Warner Brothers to really delve into who we were. 

Max: Exactly. He had a vision for the record that totally married up with where we wanted to be - helping us integrate our influences into a sound is as much London as it is California. Perhaps it’s his years of experience spent working in so many studios with so many different composers and musicians...but he knew how to get the best out of us - whether it be lending us instruments to inspire new songs and arrangements or conducting in the vocal booth to get that perfect take for the track. One of the craziest parts of our recording journey was working in some of the same studios with some of the same people that our heroes worked with! Paul took us into the Village; Studio D – where Fleetwood Mac recorded Tusk - for a recording with Ed Cherney (who had worked with many of our favourite artists, including The Rolling Stones). The track recorded there was Holding On - and will be on the album. Ed is actually mixing a few more tracks on the album along with multi Grammy-Award-winner, Paul Hicks. Paul B. also took us in to record at the Igloo Studios in Burbank to work with a young engineer there called Jay Marcovitz. We had such great synergy in the studio.

It’s been amazing to be able to work on this record with every single person on this dream team - we are so excited about it and can’t wait to release the songs! 

Working with the President of Music at Warner Brothers Pictures must get your mind working towards T.V. and film! Would you like to see your music on the screen one day?

Absolutely! That would be EPIC! Our music has always been quite cinematic. It wasn’t something we consciously thought about but it’s like a thread that seems to run through the writing (our lyrics are particularly visual) - and now particularly the soundscape having worked with Paul on the record. We hope they can be paired with some visuals one day.  

Is there going to be new music arriving next year? What is the diary looking like?

Esmay: Yes! We hope to start releasing the next singles in the early part of 2018 - and the album for spring!

IN THIS PHOTO: The E.P. cover for Hippo Campus' Warm Glow

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Max: I first heard Hippo Campus at SXSW a couple of years back. They are worth checking out - and Kurt Vile!

Esmay: Contemporary artists I’ve been listening to a lot of recently are Wolf Alice (I love their new album), Deer Tick; The War on Drugs and Anais Mitchell. Highly recommend! 

IN THIS PHOTO: Deer Tick/PHOTO CREDIT: Laura E. Partain

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

Ahhhh; it’s between Fleetwood Mac’s live album, The Dance, and Joni Mitchell’s Blue for me

Fleetwood Mac are my favourite band of all time and continually influence my writing. The Dance has most of my favourite songs on there - and it’s such a variety that it takes me on a real journey whenever I listen from start to finish. I think, because it’s a live album, it makes me feel so connected to the songs - the performances are so raw and vibrant. Joni’s Blue - well…that just takes me back to my teens when I first discovered her - all the emotions of those years. I find it comforting and it never gets boring. It also makes me think of our mum. 

Max: Bryter Later – Nick Drake

For me; it draws the perfect musical arc. Northern Sky might be the most moving song I have ever heard. 

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

Esmay: We are putting gig dates in the diary which will be U.K.-focused for now. Those will start from about February. 

Max: We have our own online music streaming channel on a platform called Twitch - if you feel like seeing us live in your own living-room, tune in at www.twitch.tv/theluckmusic. We play live from our studio in Dalston. 

Do you think you’ll be touring more in the U.S. or U.K. next year? How much fun has it been performing this year?

We think it will be more U.K. for the next year. We had an amazing time soaking up influences and recording in L.A. and hope to be able to tour there eventually - but we want to do at least the initial release of the album in the U.K. and Europe.

It’s really good to be home for a bit - we missed it!

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

Esmay: Play and write as much as possible! Every gig and every song teaches you something and gets you closer to knowing who you are (and what you want to say as an artist).

Max: Yes and, if you can, try street performing! It’s a great way to get performance experience and earn a bit of money whilst you’re playing! We have done it in wherever we have been - London, L.A.; San Francisco and San Diego (some places warmer than others!) - and it’s always been a positive thing for us to do.  

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

Esmay: Well; we are always writing and demoing new songs – and, as Max mentioned, we stream on Twitch three times a week...so we will probably be doing that up until 23rd December. I am also trying to finish the artwork for the album - so got quite a lot to do!

But; we will almost certainly be taking some time off to spend with family in London!

Max: I definitely want to get that Christmas vibe going so it’ll definitely be a bit of Winter Wonderland; maybe some ice skating at the Natural History Museum, a walk down on of those beautiful streets in London.

Mulled wine and mince pies!

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

Esmay: Nights in White Satin by The Moody Blues

 

Max: blink-182 - What’s My Age Again?

________

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 Official:

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INTERVIEW: Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra

INTERVIEW:

 Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra

________

I have been talking with Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra’s…

lead about the new single, Wintertide, and the story behind it. Its video is out; so I have been asking about it concept and process. Mosley discusses how the group got together and the themes that have gone into the new E.P., Wintertide; whether there is going to be any further material next year; the music that inspires Mosley (and the band) – and the new artists we should all check out.

I discover how the music comes together and what sort of gigs are coming up; albums and songs that have made a big impression; Mosley’s favourite song from the E.P. – advice he would offer any new songwriting emerging.

________

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

Hallo! Manic, but lovely, thank you. I can no longer deny that Christmas is coming - and must be dealt with…

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

I’m Paul Mosley. I’m a composer; singer-songwriter. I tend to write concept albums and story-songs - and rope in all of the brilliant and talented musicians I have met to make up my ever-evolving Red Meat Orchestra. I’m a big fan of 1970s singer-songwriter vibes and soundtracks - and Folk music - so those things tend to shine through in what I do.

Wintertide is your new single. What can you tell me about the song’s origins?

It was one of those where I had a title and refrain kicking about for ages - then I saw there was an arts festival also called Wintertide in my home-town of Hartlepool - and that gave me the push to finish it off. So, although it was started about five years ago; it was pulled together very quickly in the end from lots of little separate sections. Our engineer called it a ‘folky festive Bohemian Rhapsody’! 

I wanted to get it released in time for Christmas - and I got to play it at the Wintertide festival this year, too. 

 

Its video is out. Was it a fun experience putting it together?

It really was, yes, thank you - our camera-woman Tina Rowe is a brilliant: very arty, reportage photographer; very insistent on natural light, doesn’t even own a digital camera. Then we rocked up with our captain’s uniforms and random junk instruments and, essentially, fannied-about until we had enough footage to tell the story. Jack Harris, who sings a big section of the song, does some excellent dramatic ‘jack-ting’ and I always particularly enjoy seeing Josienne Clarke - who’s well-known for her seemingly very dark and serious, melancholy music - get together with Darren Allford and Esther Dee to knock out a dance routine to a 1990s Rave anthem. 

All of us take music properly seriously but the aim of everything else is to enjoy ourselves - and I think Tina did a great job of capturing that. 

The Wintertide E.P. is out. Its title-track is an updating of I Saw Three Ships. What is it about that song, and older visions of the ocean, that appeals to the band?

I grew up right on the sea-shore; so, as well as being a bit of a classic device for songwriting and storytelling, the sea was always just there…so it does pop up a lot in my songs. I decided to do something that referenced an existing Christmas tune - and that one worked as it had the sea in it. I’m working on a new album for next year which will be more ‘proper Folk’ - possibly using existing Folk tunes within new songs - and this was sort of practice for that.

I am really chuffed with how it turned out... 

  

White Crow and Wintersun look at love in different ways – both vivid, classical and imaginative. Do you think modern songwriters are rather bland and predictable when it comes to talking about love?

Thank you. The Orchestra will roll their eyes at me because I’m quite a big defender of Pop writers; because I can’t do it: I’ve not got a clue how to make those choices that result in a song that makes its intentions obvious. I always think I’m being blatant and everyone says ‘So…what’s that about?’ and I’m like…’It couldn't be clearer!’.

But, that said; yes, of course, there are a ton of - not even Pop - writers out there who - for me - would benefit from sticking a few metaphors into their songs. ‘Dear Diary’ stuff has to be pretty special to resonate; otherwise, it is, as you say, bland and predictable - and not even like a song. It’s just an idea you could *potentially* express in a song - if you compared it to a hurricane or fighting fires; or a wolf or swimming; or maths or a parachute…anything! (Just a bit more than "I feel… "). 

Also having said that; hopefully I *AM* a modern songwriter - and there’s room for my version of songwriting out there, still… 

Is there a favourite song (for you all) from Wintertide? What has it been like working with Folkwit Records?

Wintersun, for me, because it started out as a technical exercise: Can I write a song in 5/4? But, it ended up being lyrically very sincere and quite emotional; plus, it sounds really warm and West Coast Americana; lovely and melancholy - and I got a fantastic email from a new fan saying how much that song resonated with her (so that meant a lot). Also: new fan! Conquering the world, two ears at a time! 

Being part of Folkwit really helped us get on more peoples radar. I’d self-released five albums before that and I am terrible at promotion (one album I actually forgot to put on my website at all…or tell anyone about. Ideal). So; it was brilliant to suddenly be getting reviews from all over Europe and getting to play with other Folkwit bands who have become friends:  Cajita, Laurence Made Me Cry,  Martin Callingham…

How did Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra get together? What was the spark that got the band united?

In 2015; I wrote a Folk-Opera called The Butcher - a ghost story told over twenty songs - because Folk-Operas are so hot with the kids right now, obviously…it was very ambitious and I didn't want to make a low-fi version: I wanted the full wish list. (Singer) Esther Dee and I had been friends for a few years - so I wrote it around her and my friend Jamie Lawson as the ‘romantic leads’ – then, I pretty much went through my contacts from composing theatre music and my old band Moses to pull together what I needed - from Flamenco guitar to bassoon and concert xylophone. The lot!

Come the live shows; Jamie had had a hit with Wasn’t Expecting That and wasn't going to be available; so I asked Jack Harris, who I had seen many times at London Folk clubs and was a huge fan of, to step in and, brilliantly, he did. Similarly; from the same scene, I had met Josienne Clarke a few times and had written the part of Delores with her in mind - so, I was quite determined to get her and again, thankfully, she said yes. Catherine Earnshaw I had met at a variety/acoustic club we both regularly played at called The Village Green Preservation Society ran by Piney Gir…she had always sang a cappella Folk songs and had packed it in to have her son - and now wanted to sing again. So; I wrote her into it too….and, so, The Red Meat Orchestra assembled.

Thankfully, for me, they all seem to have stuck around (and be up for more)! 

What kind of music did you follow as children? Do you all have similar tastes in music?

We were pretty much a Beatles household when I was a kid: I was never a massive fan of the 1980s, even, DURING the 1980s - but I had phases as a teenager; some terrible (T’Pau - I cannot justify or explain...) some I stuck with forever (Nina Simone, Throwing Muses and Harry Nilsson). 

The Orchestra have wildly varying tastes, but a similar attitude to quality: Darren knows a ton of Disco…but it’s good Disco. Catherine, Katy (Violin) and Josienne know a lot of the Trad-Folk; Gav (Drums) and Sam (Bass) are Men of Rock but, again, good Rock. Metal, essentially. Proper.

Esther and Colin (Guitars, Saxes) both know a lot of Soul and Jazz-ers; Anna (Cello) knows all the Broadway stuff - she actually runs a Show-Tunes-for-toddlers business! Xylophone George is our Psych./Alt/Avant-Garde queen - and Jack Harris’ knowledge is just ridiculous.

He is encyclopaedic - about everything! 

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

There will be some full Orchestra gigs when the next album is out late-2018 but, as everyone also has their own projects, you’ll have to catch us individually for a while, first. Me and Jack are off on a pretty hefty U.K. tour together (in March/April); Josienne has tours with both her duo partner Ben Walker and her new band, Pica Pica, in spring. Esther is touring with her Soul/Funk band, Crowd Company; Catherine is *Always* at Cecil Sharp House - and I have a London show doing something dark and mysterious on Saturday 24th February at The Harrison (in Kings Cross, London). 

Oh…and we *might* just pop up on New Year’s Eve Eve (30th December) for a London show. Keep your eyes on www.facebook.com/paulmosleysongs 

Is there any advice you would give to artists coming through right now?

Honestly? None. It’s always an exciting time to make music - and it always seems, to people who went before, that their time was the proper time …

I have no idea what will work for the next lot coming through…but they’ll love it. I hope I am part of it. 

IN THIS PHOTO: MOULETTES

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I pretty much pinch and co-opt everyone I like so, obviously, check out all the individual members of The Red Meat Orchestra - and we have two new members joining for this year’s project: Raevennan Husbandes from Art-rockers MOULETTES and Trad-Folk player Cohen Braithwaite-Kilcoyne. Also; check out spacey Sad-Core Oh Sister; super-arty-bonkers Tom O. C Wilson.

IN THIS PHOTO: Emily Mae Winters

There’s a great gang of superb singer-songwriters out there: Jess Morgan, Kirsty Merryn; Emily Mae Winters; Kelly Oliver, Kitty MacFarlane and Nadine Khouri; Gypsy-rockers Evil Edna and, my favourite Bristol-based, Japanese one-man band, ICHI. 

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

We are having an office party! Well…a band party with other halves and kids (and everything) - I think I may have underestimated how big a pub we’re going to need… 

Do you have all your shopping done?! Is this a time of the year you all enjoy?!

Enjoy? Yes, definitely. Shopping? Not so much…Amazon a week before and a last-minute dash around the big Asda as per, probably… 

What do you have planned for next year? Will there be more material?

 There will - and I am very excited about it. The next album will tell the story of The Loneliest Whale in the World. It’s a true-ish story - you can look it up if you wish - and that is turning into a really lovely collection of songs about family and ‘having your voice heard’…I also have another theatre show brewing and, possibly – hopefully, if I can find the time - another E.P.

Plus; everyone is doing their individual projects too - so lots of music to come.  

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

Thank you so much. It was lovely to answer questions which are actually about the music!

If I can cheat slightly and request a song from the other projects of a couple of Orchestra members, that would be great. Please play Jack Harris’ Molly Bloom and Josienne Clarke and Ben Walker’s Darkling Bird

Or, if not, then Walk Away Renee by the Four Tops - as it is my favourite song

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Follow Paul Mosley and The Red Meat Orchestra

Official:

https://www.paulmosley.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/paulmosleysongs/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/paulmosley?lang=en

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9S5dM-yrP8vh_LhMB51k2w

INTERVIEW: Owen Paul

INTERVIEW:

 Owen Paul

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I am always impressed by artists who can create success…

one decade and return strong and relevant years down the line! That might sound like an unsexy way of introducing Owen Paul: in my view; it is a commendation and plaudit! My Favourite Waste of Time was one of the most notable and popular songs of the 1980s. Now, in 2017, the legendary songwriter is back strong. I ask him about the Amazing (Stonebridge Remix) and what comes next for him; how he feels about returning to the spotlight after so many years  - and whether there will be more material next year.

Owen Paul talks about his influences and a chance meeting on Chris Evans’ Radio 2 breakfast show; a fall-out with Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne; recording with Mike + The Mechanics; the musicians who have inspired him – if this Christmas will provide an opportunity for time with the family.

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

Yes. Real good, thanks.

Lots of travelling for gigs and promo work, interviews etc. I’m getting used to talking about myself (repeatedly) again after all these years. L.o.L.

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

I’m most well known for the 1986 summer smash-hit, My Favourite Waste of Time. But; I have done many other things since, such as being a member of Mike + The Mechanics - for an album called Rewired - and doing a European tour with them (to name but one).

Tell me more about Amazing (Stonebridge Remix). What was the reason for getting the song remixed – and does this song have a special place in your heart?

Yes. The song is important to me.

Like most artists; all songs are very personal and we treat them like our children so to speak, so we like to see them thrive. My involvement with Stonebridge (on Amazing) came about because I asked him last year to remix My Favourite Waste of Time for its thirtieth anniversary.

He said ‘no’ (L.o.L.); but that he would love to work with me on something new - if I had a brand-new song...

Fortunately, I had a newly-written track that Robbie Williams was going to record for his last album - but changed his mind about at the last minute. I sent Stonebridge the song, he loved it; he did his magic and, before I knew it, we had an official U.K. Club chart hit on our hands.

My Favourite Waste of Time was released back in the 1980s. Since then, you have had an interesting path. Are you surprised, in a good way, to still be in music?!

Yes. I am absolutely delighted still to be working in the music industry: most writers/singers or performers would tell you that all they want is to make a living doing what they love and to be able to afford to write and record new material as a result.

I am no different - so I am very very happy to be still doing it.

I know you have had an infamous argument with Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne; run your own theatre and take time from music. What was the reason behind stepping aside from the music industry?

Put, very simply: after the massive success of My Favourite Waste of Time; both myself and my record company, Sony, had a massive fallout...in effect, they wanted more of the same. I did not. This is not uncommon in the industry; so I decided the only answer was to walk away and to start again at a later date.

Not for one second did I think it would take me over twenty years. L.o.L.

It seems like you have lived quite a life! Do you think all these experiences have made you a stronger person?

I would certainly say I am way better at my job now than I was back in the day; both as a writer and performer. As for stronger, well let’s say I am well used to rejection and I can cope – plus, I am proof that, without perseverance and belief in yourself, you won't last five minutes in this industry (and I’m still here, so I must be doing something right). Not all experienced record company executives/manager/publishers etc. know what they are talking about - ask Paul McCartney (The Beatles were rejected and turned down lots of times).

Often, the artist knows best...

Recently, you performed on Chris Evans’ BBC Radio 2 show. How did that come about - and how important was it?!

Yes; that was very random...

I had been asked to perform for a Dutch radio station - who just happened to be in London for the week and they were broadcasting from Wogan House at the BBC. Chris Evans heard I was in the building and asked if I would come on to his breakfast show and sing live.

So, before I knew it; I was singing to the nation - which was a timely reminder to anyone listening (and there were millions; my phone went into meltdown) that, (1): Owen Paul is still alive and kicking and (2): he has new material too.

I was very happy with that.

Can we expect any new material next year? What are you working on right now?

Absolutely. I have never stopped writing songs since I was a teenager. I just stopped releasing them. But, now we have a Club chart hit in the U.K.; we are planning way more for next year.

I already have the songs (I’ve had plenty of time to prepare. L.o.L.)

It can be hard for artists of past decades to assimilate and attune to an ever-developing industry. Do you think the digitisation and changes in music have been beneficial? Is it vastly different to when you started out?

I think, just like at any time the music industry, it is full of good and bad things. Streaming, for example, is great for the public - but not so for the artists as almost no royalties are paid. On the other hand; the Internet has changed the way everything works - so someone like me can survive via Facebook, Twitter; Instagram and so on. We can have direct contact with our audience, old and new; so we can very quickly tell if a song is well received or not - without having to beg a record executives permission for release.

It’s all so much more instant - and that is very much a good thing.

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

There are always lots of great new acts out there - they may just be harder to find. When one works in the recording and writing industry, sometimes, it's hard to listen to anyone else's music just for pleasure the way everyone else does. We tend to dissect them too much for enjoyment. On the other hand; sometimes a new band just leaps out at you...

I know they are not new, as such, but the last band who really stood out to me was The 1975: a great mix of old and new styles wrapped up in one act.

 IN THIS PHOTO: The 1975/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

Definitely “Heroes” by David Bowie

Other than the title-track being the best record ever made, in my opinion, the experimental nature of the whole album shows that the possibilities for a brave singer/songwriter are endless....even in the mainstream.

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac

It is an absolute masterpiece - and Lindsey Buckingham is a genius.

The Joshua Tree by U2

A band at the very top of their game and giving it all they've got. I love it.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

No more gigs for me for this year; however, lots to come in early-2018 and beyond; both 1980s-type events and (solo) new material shows. So; I am very happy and excited about what's to come.

For gig info, see www.theowenpaul.com; Facebook (Facebook/TheOwenPaul) and Twitter (@owenpaulreal).

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

As mentioned before; perseverance and belief in your own work are key: you will be crushed otherwise.

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

No exact plans as such - but lots of recording/mixing for sure. All will stop for my children, of course, at Xmas...and rightly so.

They are my proudest achievement.

Looking back at this year; has there been a moment that stands as a highlight for all of you?

I think being part of B.E.F. (the British Electronic Foundation) with Martyn Ware and Glenn Gregory (from Heaven 17) was a standout for me. We performed at all three Rewind 1980s festivals - and the crowds loved it.

It was good to be back.

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

Heroes – David Bowie

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Follow Owen Paul

Official:

http://www.theowenpaul.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TheOwenPaul/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/owenpaulreal?lang=en

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/owenpaulofficialpage/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3Z7X7Ciu64BoFFdIT0bIcw

INTERVIEW: Chantal O’Brien

INTERVIEW:

Chantal O’Brien

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MY zeal to have more female artists appear on my blog…

has been answered in the form of Chantal O’Brien. My prayers have been fulfiled by a terrific artist who brings us the incredible track, I Need You. O’Brien talks about the single and its glamorous video; what new material is coming next year; moving from Brisbane (to London) - and how her Spanish heritage impacts her music.

I ask about the artists and sounds that have inspired her; whether there are going to be any gigs before 2018; what her Christmas has in store; how her early experiences (singing in choirs and playing at open mic nights) affected her creative rise – the three albums that mean the most to her.

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

Hey. I am well, thank you…and yourself?

It has been a really productive week! I will be releasing a covers mash-up this week - currently finalising the editing process!

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

Yes, sure. Well; my name is Chantal O'Brien and I am singer and songwriter born in Brisbane, Australia - and I am also half-Spanish. I am releasing a few singles and my debut album will be released in 2018! The date is being finalised as we speak. My music is solely based on Pop; however, I do add different influences in my music such as Country, ballads; House and many more.

I was classically trained; however, when I was eighteen; I decided to focus on the Pop world of music - and haven't looked back since.

I Need You is your new song. Tell me more about its background and inspiration…

I Need You is about a woman using her seductive charm to capture this guy's attention and heart. In the music video, it explains in more depth. See; we [women] have this power to seduce men and get any man we really want. So; the song is about the journey of how this woman really likes this guy…so she uses her skills to get him and she tells him she needs him – but, in the end, it was a game; she was toying with his emotions.

It was a fun song to make. I am not a manipulator in real life, I promise. Haha. I wanted to aim for a new cutting-edge sound and my inspiration was a mix of Jojo and will.i.am.

The video is very glamorous! What was it like putting that together and seeing it back?

Why, thank you! It was loads of fun – and we had an amazing time bringing the song to life through this music video. Seeing it back…I was definitely proud of the work. I loved all the different scenes and looks.

Is there going to be more music coming in the future?

Of course: this is just the beginning! I will be releasing a few more singles in 2018, and then, I will drop my debut album toward the end of the year.

I can't wait to share it with you all. 

Brisbane is where you hail from. What was the city like for music and opportunities? What compelled the decision to come to London?

Wow; that is a great question! Brisbane will forever be my home-city and it had many opportunities; however, I did feel that, eventually, I would need to move to Sydney or Melbourne to further progress in a music career that I wanted - though, personally, I do feel that London was more desirable and more of what I wanted to do in music. London brought many opportunities and has a huge music scene. I also studied a Bachelor of Music in London at LCCM (in Southwark, London).

How important is London and do you feel settled here? Are the people key when it comes to provoking new music?

London is important as it is a stepping-stone to where I want to be and, yes, I feel very settled here. I have created a life here. They are key, and through some of my experiences, it has helped to provoke new music. You also continue to grow every day in life and music. So, each song I write; I feel that I am continuously evolving - and people would relate to the music that I write.

You have Spanish heritage. Does the romance and history of the nation come into your music?

I sure do!

Well; it does and I actually will be releasing a single in 2018 that is Spanish. It is called Acercate - which is translated to ‘Come Closer’. Think of Bailando by Enrique Iglesias (ft. Gente de Zona and Descemer Bueno).

It is all about passion, dancing and much more! I can't wait to release this!

Through the years, you have played at open mic. nights and performed in choirs. How important were those experiences and do you think they helped craft your music visions?

They are very important as they gave me opportunities to meet producers and like-minded musicians. It is all about meeting and networking at these events/gigs. You also create a name for yourself and get to work with other musicians.

Each opportunity is part of the journey.

Can you tell me who the musicians were that inspired you growing up?

Oh gosh…I could be here for a while!

Well; I can give you a hand full of artists who have inspired me. These artists are: Whitney Houston, Elton John; Billy Joel, Christina Aguilera; Phil Collins and Mariah Carey.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Becky G/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Well; Becky G and Natti Natasha. Really amazing artists. I especially love the song, Criminal – (Ozuna x Natti Natasha).

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

Small Mercies – Beautiful Hum

This album is amazing - especially the song, Innocent. There are many memories that I can relate to with this album.

Rihanna – Loud

This is a wicked album! This is my go-to-beats I play when I am driving. 

Mariah Carey – Butterfly

Well…what can I say?! I love her music - and her voice is incredible. Even though this was released when I was six-years-old (now, you would know my age!); I love the songs and it reminds me of my childhood. I always loved the song, Honey.

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

No matter what, believe in yourself and never give up!

Where can we see you play this year? Any new dates coming up?

Good question! We are currently arranging this as we speak. All dates and venues will be announced shortly - and you can check my website out and Facebook.

It will start in early-2018 (and in London).

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

No, it isn't…I love Christmas! I will be heading to Spain for a couple of days; then, I will be back to head to the studio to write music and record.

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).

Awesome! I would love Criminal (Spanish) – Ozuna x Natti Natasha or Innocent (English) – Small Mercies

Thank you for having me. Wishing you an amazing Christmas and a happy New Year.

________

Follow Chantal O’Brien

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Chantal.0Brien/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ChantalO7

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/chantalobrien1/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsKK4hHadolT3oHATNc_MEw

INTERVIEW: Lazybones

INTERVIEW:

Lazybones

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ONE thing you can definitely rule out…

when it comes to the Brighton-based group Lazybones is any signs of slacking! Joe (from the band) talks about the new single, Snake, and details about its cool, retro video. I ask how they came together and what the scene is like in Brighton; whether there is going to be any new material next year; some great new acts worth investigating – if the guys have a quiet-ish Christmas planned.

I learn more about the music that makes them tick; why their live shows are so celebrated and explosive; whether there are any gigs before the end of this year; some advice for fellow artists emerging right now – what plans they have in store for the year ahead.

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

Good, thanks! We’ve been super-busy in the lead-up to our single release - so we’re very excited to see it all come together.

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

Sure. We are Lazybones from Brighton. We have Candi singing and playing the organ; Joe (me) on bass and Sam on drums.

Snake is the new single. What is the story behind the song?

It is indeed!

So, lyrically; Snake is a bit of a rant about those sneaky, backstabbing people who we all come across from time to time. People who are always on the take and would screw you over without thinking twice.

The song came together pretty quickly. We just wanted the sort of riff that a bunch of kids could jam out in a garage: the kind of riff you play when you first pick up a guitar and (just) want to play something loud and fast. We really wanted that straightforward, immature sort of aggression in the song.

The video is quite lo-fi and trippy! Was it a cool experience putting it together? What is the concept behind the video?

We wanted to keep everything kinda rough and D.I.Y; so we recorded the video in the same rehearsal room where we recorded the song - and it’s mostly a performance video filmed on V.H.S. by Katia (of No Tape Inside). The song has a nostalgic vibe for us; so we got our mate Joey Pearson to make up some 1990s cartoon-style animations of the lyrics to flash up on big old T.V.s around us.

The whole process was a laugh…apart from the old 1990s T.V.s - they kept breaking and weighed an absolute ton!

Is there a specific story behind the name, ‘Lazybones’? Where does that moniker come from

We just wanted a name that loosely suggested bare-bones-kinda-music: rough and ready, no frills. Someone said we are lazy for not getting a guitar player - maybe that crept into the thought-process?

You have a raucous and fuzzy sound! Are there particular artists who have inspired that?

Generally; stuff like Sex Pistols, Black Sabbath; Chas & Dave and Scooby Doo early on and, more recently, bands that have brought back that rough, vintage and fuzzy sound with a new edge. The obvious: Jack White, Queens of the Stone Age; Slaves and Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

Brighton is where you are based. What is the area like when it comes to cool bands and venues?

There are loads of great bands in Brighton at the moment that we really love: Black Honey, Tigercub; Demob Happy, Royal Blood…there always seems to be great bands knocking around (and occasionally taking over the world).

Tell me how Lazybones got together? How did the trio become ‘one’?

We all just knew each other from gigging around Brighton and seeing each other’s bands... 

It started as just me and Candi writing together. We didn’t really know what sort of band we wanted to be at first; it just boiled down to a couple of points: 1: We have to be a three-piece, somehow...and 2: It has to be an honest representation of who we are: something straightforward; to the point, no frills etc.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Black Honey/PHOTO CREDIT: Jamie Noise

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Black Honey, TIGERCUB and Clever Thing.

IN THIS PHOTO: Clever Thing/PHOTO CREDIT: Stewart Gardiner 

Is there any advice you would give to artists coming through right now?

I don’t really feel like we are in any position to give advice on music careers: we only really started being a real band in October this year!

I guess what you put into this is what you get out...and the songs are the most important thing.

Sticky Mike's Frog Bar in Brighton is a big show on 22nd. Are you guys pumped about that one?!

Yeah; it should be a good one! We are on at 1:30 A.M. and there is free glitter and Jack Daniels on the door - so might be a bit of a mad one.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon after that? What other gigs do you have lined-up?

We are supporting DEAD! at the Prince Albert in Brighton on 6th Feb - and we will generally be out and about gigging in Feb/March.

Is the stage where you feel at your best and most free? It seems like live performances are where the music truly comes alive...

Yeah, sure; playing live is what it’s all about...

We definitely feel more comfortable playing the songs live. That’s how they are all formed and sound best to us: live and loud in a room.

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

We will be sitting in our pants, drunk; watching The Muppets Christmas Carol.

What do you have planned for next year? Will there be more material?

We are working on some new stuff that we can hopefully get out for Jan/Feb sort of time – that and some gigging around the country!

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).

Candi: Against Me! - Osama bin Laden As the Crucified Christ

Joe: Grinderman - Honey Bee (Let’s Fly to Mars)

Sam: Nomad - Death From Above 1979

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 Follow Lazybones

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/wearelazybones

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/wearelazybones_

SoundCloud:

https://www.instagram.com/wearelazybones/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTZCus55u0MUwLmBJgJL1kQ

INTERVIEW: Public Order

INTERVIEW:

Public Order

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THERE might be a slight tinge of irony to Public Order…

given how epic their music is! There is Electronic smoothness - but the kind of beats and production qualities that makes one want to get their body moving and raise the voice loud. I ask the guys about their live set and whether there are any dates coming up. They talk to me about the single, Violet Skies, and the story behind it; working with vocalist Rebecca Hurn on the song; whether there is going to be some new material down the line – and how the group came together in the first place.

I ask about that name and whether there are links to the Rave culture of the 1990s; whether there is an active music scene where they are in Wales; some great new artists worth checking out; how this Christmas is going to be spent – a few albums and songs that mean a lot to the trio.

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

Great. Thanks for interviewing us!

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

We are Public Order; a three-piece producer/D.J. group from Merthyr.

Violet Skies is the new track. What can you tell me about it?

A melancholic Pop tune with really nice vocals from Rebecca Hurn...

PHOTO CREDIT: MY PROD

It features, as you say, Rebecca Hurn. How did you come to meet her? 

We met Rebecca through the Forté Project and mutually decided to work on something together.

Rebecca. I believe you wrote the song. I know there is a bit of a personal inspiration. Was it quite an easy song to write – or was it a bit of a challenge?

We produced the track; however, Rebecca wrote the top-line! 

“I wrote Violet Skies based on how I spent my summer - it’s basically about the beginning of a relationship where you’re kind of together and kind of not.” - Rebecca Hurn

Its video looks like it was fun to shoot! Was it quite a blast?! I believe the song received funding and backing. Can you tell me more about that?

We shot the video with one of our good mates Tyler Wilkins. (It was quite a chilled shoot and we had a good laugh!). We were funded to release the song by the Forté Project - who support emerging artists.

How did Public Order come together? Was it quite an instant bond between you all?

We’ve all been friends since we were little - and then starting music together. Nothing was really planned!

The band-name refers to the Rave culture of the 1990s. Was that quite an exciting and eye-opening time for you guys?

We’re only eighteen. Hahaha. But, we’ve always been inspired by that culture and the music that goes with it - even if our music doesn’t sound like it!

Looking ahead; what are you working on in terms of new material?

We’re working on some many collaborations and remixes with other vocalists/artists. There’s load to look forward to!

You are a Welsh collective – I always assume the country is quite quiet! Is there a big scene where you are? How easy is it getting exposure?

There’s loads of good music coming from Merthyr and the surrounding areas! The scenes not massive but there’s so much talent here!

IN THIS PHOTO: Rebecca Hurn

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

We recommend you have a listen to Rebecca Hurn’s solo stuff; as well as Upbeat Sneakers; Tracy Island, Chapel Row; Local Enemy, Florence Black and Pretty Vicious.

IN THIS PHOTO: Local Enemy

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

Worlds – Porter Robinson

The Stone Roses – The Stone Roses

Stoney – Post Malone

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

Get all your mates involved - and don’t take it too seriously!

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

Bit of both! Hopefully; we’ll have time for a good drink and some music stuff!

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).

Mall Grab – Pool Party Music

Lil Peep – Star Shopping

Post Malone - Patient

________

Follow Public Order

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/PublicOrderUK/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/PublicOrderUK

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/publicorderuk/?hl=en

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/publicorderuk

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/track/1CZqXhRORrnRvZbhscjkPz

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG6NSXpEjqG5BGVmSlzy64Q/videos

INTERVIEW: TALMA

INTERVIEW:

 TALMA

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THE five-piece Alternative-Rock band TALMA…

are gearing up for a big 2018! Their new song, Lifeline, is about getting to grips with a city like London and all the rush and isolation. I speak with the guys about their favourite music and how they all got together; whether there is going to be more material next year; the artists who influence them – and how they produce such an energetic and raw sound on stage.

I discover whether the band feels more comfortable on stage or in the studio; why artists like Morrissey are influential to them; a few albums that touch their hearts; some new artists we need to take a gander at – what they all have planned for this Christmas.

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

All good, thanks. Very busy with the release - but it’s been exciting stuff! (I am actually writing the answer to these questions from the rehearsal studio). It’s been a bit of a mad balancing act for all of us with jobs, girlfriends; essentials - like eating to fulfil - and that’s all before we have picked up an instrument!

But, in short = all good!

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

We are a five-piece Alternative-Rock band formed in Exeter - now hailing from London. On making the move up to the Big smoke in the summer of 2016, we have spent the time since writing and focusing on trying to hone our sound. Our influences cover a broad remit but most prominently our work is influenced by artists such as Radiohead, The Smiths and The National to name but a few...

Lifeline is your latest track. What is the song all about?

In essence; the track explores the loneliness and the sense of displacement that can come with moving to a metropolis like London. Lifeline explores the juxtaposition of being surrounded by millions of people - but still feeling a sense of loneliness and isolation. The overwhelming nature of a city like London has, for us, sometimes evoked a sense of helplessness and a need to call for help - the 'lifeline' is the thing that we are looking to clutch onto, as the weight of trying to establish yourself in such a big place, takes hold.

There is an aspect of the modern city and feeling isolated. Do you have a sense of loneliness being in a city like London?

Absolutely.

Don’t get me wrong; London is an incredible place and we count ourselves very lucky to live here, however, moving here has coincided with that awkward phase of our lives where neither of us has any idea what we are actually doing. The overwhelming visceral nature of this place sometimes beats you up a bit and, with unfamiliar surroundings, you often don’t know where to turn for help.

Moreover, I think it is quite an ‘individual’ time in our lives where people are thinking about what is best for them and how to go about achieving what they want to achieve. Sadly, though, this can often contribute to the loneliness - as you can be unsure who to turn to for help when it all gets a bit much.

PHOTO CREDIT: @Elliottrattphotography

Lifeline is a song that shows there is life in guitar music still. Do you think there is a danger Rock/Alternative artists are less relevant than past years?

Very kind of you to say! It’s a tough one. I personally think guitar-led music is making a bit of a comeback. Bands like The War on Drugs, The National; Royal Blood and many others are starting to level the playing field a little bit. Moreover, there is definitely life in the Alternative genre: acts like Angel Olsen, for example (in the States) and legends like Nick Cave have released fantastic work in the last twelve months. However, with tech getting ever better, a palette where synth and effects are becoming ever more sophisticated; it is easy to see how a guitar player just plugging into an amp is perhaps slightly losing its glamour. Artists are always looking for the next new thing and, with guitar dominating our popular music history; it is understandable that musicians are looking elsewhere to drive a tune.

However, I would say that ‘Alternative’ music, by its very definition, is music fans looking for a release from the mainstream and a rawer, more emotive, connection with the music that they listen to. The guitar has always been a great communicator of that desire and, as long as that feeling is in play, I think the guitar will always be relevant - due to its versatility and the emotions that you can get across.

The lyrics have a touch of Morrissey – and his worldview/wit. Is he someone who inspired the band? What other artists do you count as influences?

I think, loosely, The Smiths’ sound, in general, is something that we have drawn a lot of inspiration from in the past. Morrissey obviously plays a huge part in this but, in my eyes, Jonny Marr’s guitar is just as essential to that influence. In a Rock scene where baritone vocals have gone a little out of fashion, comparisons are naturally made – but, gladly our worldviews are very different! There is a similarity in that often Morrissey’s lyrics show his lack of assimilation with the world around him whilst, in Lifeline, the lyrics explore that premise and our lack of understanding of the world that we have moved into.

As a band (and as individuals) we are all influenced by a huge array of different artists from Nick Cave, Elvis Costello; Nile Rodgers and many more. All of these individual influences contribute to the sound in some way.

How did TALMA come together? What brought you guys into a band?

It all started at Exeter University. Jonny (drummer) and I were playing together in a Jazz band. We both had a mutual love of various artists and were really keen to set up a band of our own. We knew of Jack (Guitar), who played lead guitar for a Soul choir band, who brought along Pete (Bass) and then James (Guitar) later on. We were all involved in projects before the band started - but the main motivator for us was to write our own stuff and see what we could come up with.

Is there going to be new material coming next year? What are you working on?

Yes! We’ve got more yet to come, so we’ll be sure to keep you posted on that! Then, providing nobody expresses pure hatred of the new releases, we will be back in the studio doing the rounds again.

IN THIS PHOTO: Matt Maltese/PHOTO CREDIT: Holly Whitaker Photography

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

There is a lot of fantastic stuff out there at the moment. I am a huge fan of the singer-songwriter Matt Maltese - who is starting to make a bit of noise. Our guitar player, Jack, recommends Phoebe Bridgers (who is supporting Pinegrove in the near future). A couple of other bands that we have enjoyed recently - who have released new music - are Prom Queen, Foxygen and P.F. Philip & The Night Riders.

IN THIS PHOTO: Prom Queen

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

Jack: Kate Bush - Hounds of Love

It’s just great. No matter how you are feeling; it will accentuate the emotional state that you are in at that time. 

Jonny: Songs of Love and Hate by Leonard Cohen

He sets the benchmark for lyric-writing and, as its winter, it’s an album to listen to in a coat.

Henry: Diamond Dogs - David Bowie

I am a huge Bowie fan - and this album sums up so much of what I love about his stuff. The narrative storytelling throughout the album; blended in with some brilliant singles – it’s just a great listen.

James: Nebraska - Bruce Springsteen

An album I have been a huge fan of for a while; often an artist who is thought of for his big live shows and anthemic tunes. Nebraska is a testament to his range and the quality of his songwriting.

Pete: Meat Is Murder - The Smiths

It’s just a brilliant album. (Bass player man of few words).

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

We are back on stage for our last show of 2017 this Wednesday (6th December) at The New Cross Inn: one of our favourite venues in East London.

Then; we’ll be in writing-mode until making a return at The Camden Assembly on 24th February - which will be our first time playing there…so excited about that one!

It seems like your music comes to life on stage. Do you prefer the stage or studio? Where does the band feel most comfortable and alive?

Good question!

It probably varies from band member to band member; however, I would say an honest answer is that we get a lot out of both. As a group of musicians, we take an overriding joy from creating our own stuff and going on that ‘journey’ with it - from the initial jam right through to gigging it live - and then putting it under the microscope in the studio. I think we would struggle to do music without one or the other; we love playing live in front of an audience whilst we also love getting in the studio to create our own music.

A short answer to the question: we are alive and in love with both settings…

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

It sounds a bit superficial - but I think you just have to be ‘you’. The music industry is so overflowing with (just) ‘stuff’; whether it’s promoters, other artists; genres, all sorts - and it is very easy to get lost in the maze. It’s a case of sticking to your guns and reminding yourself of the reason why you are doing this in the first place. By all means, take as much advice from external influences as you can: hearing other opinions is healthy but be weary of the so-called ‘industry experts’ who may cloud your thoughts on what you are trying to achieve.

If you get the sound right, the rest will take care of itself. So, just be you and love what you are doing.

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

I think, predominantly, just having a bit of a rest! It’s been a heavy year for all of us; so I think a bit of a recharge and gearing up for another really busy one is a necessity.

Looking back at this year; has there been a moment that stands as a highlight for all of you?

I think, to come back to the studio/stage dynamic, there are two distinct memories for us...

Firstly, in terms of performing live; we took to the stage with Queen’s Spike Edney and his All-Star Band; we played some great venues and got some exposure to some amazing musicians.

However, I would say the real highlight was going into the studio with Jason Wilson (You Me at Six, Reuben) at Stake Out Studios. We have always been a bit D.I.Y. when it has come to recordings - which has been fine and really beneficial in some respects. But, to get a pro like Jason involved was brilliant. His insight and his ability to reign us in - when we were getting carried away - was so invaluable and he played a massive part in the end product.

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).

Henry:  I Need You – Prom Queen

James: I’ll Still Destroy You – The National

Jack: Kaput – Destroyer

Pete: Calypso – The Physics House Band

Jonny: Plans – Halcion

________

Follow TALMA

 Official:

https://www.talmasounds.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TalmaSounds/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/talmasounds

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/talmasounds/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/talmasounds

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6o5QtV9YTWvBUyv6pF8ZAk

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYh5Xd9hYWBbIUrnWB15yQg

INTERVIEW: The Crowleys

INTERVIEW: 

 The Crowleys

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CANADIAN band The Crowleys tell me about their…

new single, Midnight Blue. The Hamilton clan discusses working with Evan Bond on Midnight Blue’s video; whether there is new material coming; how they all got together in the first place; if there is an active and productive music scene around Hamilton/Ontario – and whether they will favour the U.K. with their presence next year.

The guys talk about the artists who have impacted them most and new acts to look out for; some of the albums that have shaped who they are; what has been the highlight from a busy and ever-moving year – and whether the band will get a chance to rest this Christmas.

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

The past little bit we have taken a lot of time off playing shows to get these new recordings done - and work on writing new material. But, we were provided with the opportunity to play little shows that we couldn’t turn down this weekend and last. These shows, coupled with working hard to promote the new single, has resulted in quite the whirlwind of a week.

We love it though - and the shows went extremely well.

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

We are The Crowleys; four musicians from Hamilton, Canada that play Psychedelic music - and we work really hard at trying to make you dance.

Midnight Blue is the new release. What is the story behind the song?

Our drummer wrote the first iteration of the song a couple years ago…

The lyrics were about how your mind drifts when you can’t fall asleep and that endless cycle taking you into a deep pit - or a so-called ‘midnight blue’. Writing out the lyrics were, in a sense, a type of therapy for that happening and, to be able to put words to it creatively, was very helpful. The song was sent to our guitarist and he immediately knew what he had to put over it. We then started recording but quickly ran into one big issue with it. The song has seen a key shift down and a rewrite of the vocal melody - just because we could not get the singing down in a way that felt right. It was actually when the idea came about to scrap the song during the mixing process that gave some creative freedom to it - we had nothing left to lose.

Michael Keire, the mastermind behind Threshold Studios where we record, suggested a vocoder pedal on the vocals. It took the melody to a different level that finally worked for the rest of the song. What was once the weakest aspect of the song had become the best thing about it! We all love this song now but it is definitely a change from our usual stuff - which is why we saved it for our second single.

I am interested in the animated video! Whose concept was it? Do you think it fits with the tone and feel of the song?

Evan Bond directed and animated the music video. When we first met up with Evan, we pitched him a very basic idea of what we were thinking of for the video. After that, we gave him total freedom as to what he wanted to do with it. Evan did a fantastic job of portraying the emotion of the song, in just a short amount of time, with a minimalistic animation style.

Given the new single looks at insomnia and the mind wandering; did you get inspired following the release of the song? Did that state of mind compel new direction?

All of us in the band have had that moment of intense inspiration for writing music that pops up when we are just about to fall asleep, or during sleeplessness; like you can finally begin to think creatively after your brain has purged the information that you've been bombarded with throughout the day.

When you lie in bed unable to sleep, it is meditative in a way. So, it makes sense that you can get ideas flowing with little distraction from the outside world. This type of creative output is also very organic - because you aren't sitting down and forcing yourself to write lyrics or a melody; it just comes to you. 

What are you working on at the moment in terms of future material?

Since we’ve introduced a synth to our practice space, we’ve become pretty prolific with songs ideas. We have a lot of progressions and ideas in the works and we are really excited to take them into the studio and see what comes of them.

They are kind of more R&B-chill vibes than some of the heavier psych music we’ve written in the past…but we will see what happens.

How did The Crowleys get together - and what was it about each other that meant a band forming was inevitable?

We were teenagers when we first got together.

I think the feeling you get when you are in the middle of a jam and everyone is on the exact same page is addicting and, with the four of us, that happened very often. Without explicitly stating what we wanted, our songs seemed to come up with a sound pretty quick. Now, we just continue to craft that sound and expand. We have a lot of love for each other - and playing in any other band would be very strange.

Is there quite a big music scene where you are in Hamilton (Canada)? Do you have enough opportunities to perform there?

We’ve got a great little scene going on in Hamilton...

There are a lot of other hardworking and creative musicians that inspire us to be great. Like many urban centers, we’ve experienced gentrification and the closing of music venues that made the area desirable in the first place. We’re lucky enough that we’re established enough to play some of the bigger venues that still exist in the city.

Unfortunately, there aren’t a lot of venues that are small enough to take a risk on a smaller band first starting out - and we think that’s a problem.

IN THIS PHOTO: Father Christmas/PHOTO CREDIT: Brittany Lucas

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

A few acts from Toronto are great: Father Christmas, Jaunt and Charlotte Day Wilson. We play with Jaunt every time we get the chance and two of the musicians in Jaunt make up Charlotte Day Wilson’s band.

Staying local, we are really excited about The Ferns and just played a wicked show with Free Love. The Bandicoots are always a good time and are sure to pack a house.

If you haven’t heard Mild High Club and King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard’s collaboration album - check that out. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Charlotte Day Wilson

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

It’s hard to say an album that has meant the most to us over our lifetime - but we will give you one from recent memory.

Stuart (Drums, Vocals): Congratulations by MGMT

This album changed the way I look at writing music - and how layering different parts can give a song longevity.

Cohen (Guitar, Lead Vocals): Embryonic by The Flaming Lips

The ‘Flips’ have continually taken experimental music into the pop realm. The production on this album has been very inspiring in our work. Just give it a listen.

Justyn (Guitar, Synth): Bearer of Bad News/The Party by Andy Shauf

I can’t pick between Andy Shauf’s most recent albums - because they are both so incredible. Andy is one of the greatest storytellers I have ever listened to (and he is a good ol’ Canadian boy).

Kaulin (Bass): In Rainbows by Radiohead

In Rainbows helped me through a tough time in my life. It’s probably Radiohead’s most beautiful album.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

We’re playing January 5th at The Casbah in Hamilton and are currently in the process of booking shows to support the E.P. we are releasing in the spring.

Do you think you’ll come play the U.K. next year?

If the stars align, we would absolutely love to. Where’s good to play? We love Temples and, if you are reading this and are a fan of Temples…we think you’ll like our music, too!

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

Work and don’t worry about anything else. We jammed in a basement for four years before we played our first show - and we think that really helped us be a good live band.

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

We’ve been having an annual potluck for the holidays with some of our closest friends: it’s one of the highlights of the holidays for us. We will also likely bust out some demos for new music over the break (if we can find time in the studio).

Looking back at this year; has there been a moment that stands as a highlight for all of you

We only have to look back to last week when we played a record show; we know it’s not much but that’s always kind of been a bucket list thing for us. The owner is a great guy (and in an awesome band called Coszmos Quartette) and we were excited to play in his shop - and to hear his encouragement was great.

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).

Stuart: Echoes of Yesterday by Coszmos Quartette

Justyn: Break Down and Let it All Out by Nina Simone

Cohen: Suede by NxWorries (ft. Anderson. Paak & Knxwledge)

Kaulin: Friend Zone by Thundercat

________

Follow The Crowleys

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thecrowleysband/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thecrowleysband

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thecrowleysband/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/thecrowleysband

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0QAUXHfwmQX7joTPDD4gqI

INTERVIEW: Louis Brennan

INTERVIEW:

Louis Brennan

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A song about the capital of the United Kingdom…

is nothing new, we know. Artists such as from The Clash, Pulp and Wiley have expressed their opinions on London – or certain parts of it! I was excited to ask Louis Brennan about his take and what his new single, London, was all about. He talks about the album, Dead Capital, and whether there is a financial leaning; maybe a nod to London being strangled and distilled – and whether there are going to be any gigs to accompany it.

Brennan talks about his music tastes and past; what he has planned going forward; whether songwriters such as Nick Cave and Father John Misty are influences – the three albums that mean the most to him, too.

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

Hi. I’m fine, thanks. I still have a pulse, thankfully - which is as much as you can ask for on a Monday morning. I haven’t been out of bed long...so, my week could go either way, really.

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

I’m a songwriter from Dublin, based in London; I write songs rooted in the Folk tradition - although purists would probably disagree.

Tell me more about London. What is the story behind the track?

London is, basically, me commuting back and forth from a job I hate whilst stewing in my own self-loathing - and musing on the absurdity of some our commonest pursuits.

The video looks like it is straight out a 1980s hipster’s drug-addled dream – in a good way! It is pretty old-skool, no?

I wanted to shoot a sort of tourist/holiday-style video and present images that were recognisably ‘London’ to someone who may never have visited. I bought this camcorder and five blank tapes off eBay for £15 and decided I’d go on one of those open top tourist buses. About five minutes into the journey, the camera died. Having spent £27(??!!!) on the bus ticket; I was somewhat crestfallen!

Numerous breakages and repairs later; I somehow managed to cobble together the final thing. All the static and degradation are a result of the piece of crap camera. The subtitles I had initially wanted to make the bouncing ball karaoke type - but it was beyond my technical know-how.

It seems like you have a bond with older technologies and ways. What is the reason for that?

I like the limitations of older technologies or ways of working: it definitely makes you have to make decisions at the input - rather than output - stage. I think that adds a certain spark to the creative process - knowing that you’re capturing a moment rather than reverse-engineering it. By and large, digital culture seems to engender a disposable attitude towards art which renders it somewhat hollow - and probably has changed how much value younger generations are inclined to attribute to it.

I’m, also, just a curmudgeon…

London is from the album, Dead Capital. Is that title an allusion to the decreasing all-inclusiveness of London – or does it have a financial basis?

It’s both!

‘Dead capital’ is an economic term referring to assets which are often informally owned - and, therefore, cannot be leveraged. In the developing world, particularly, this means only the already wealthy can create surplus wealth to invest etc.; thus creating a self-perpetuating cycle of inequality. Ostensibly, the whole legal framework of property and capital is written by those at the top for their own benefit.

I feel like this could equally be applied to ideas and that we’re all walking around with heads full of dead capital; unsure how to escape an overarching clusterfu*k seemingly imposed upon us from ‘above’.

What subjects do you broach and examine on the record?

White privilege, sexual confusion; substance abuse, public transport; identity, interpersonal claustrophobia; the failure of the left – to name but a few!

You have the look of Father John Misty but the sound of John Grant and Nick Cave (fewer facial hairs but along the same line!). It seems like you have a lure towards bearded musicians but, more importantly, quality stuff! Are they important artists to you?

I’d like to consider those guys my peers - albeit a lot more successful than me! I’m a big admirer of all of their lyrics and all three are artists who seem to be on a ‘journey’ - which is something I can totally identify with.

Your music has a cerebral and witty edge. Is it important conveying something deeper in your music? What is your view on the mainstream and the music coming from there?

I get the impression that most mainstream Pop is just music by committee - where a whole load of producers sit around and focus-group songs into existence...

Obviously, there’s a huge amount of talented people involved who all work very hard but, ultimately, it’s just a commercial enterprise and bears little in relation to what I do. Like I said; I consider myself a Folk singer, so I sing about people and their experiences - and try to imbue them with some sort of meaning where often no meaning exists.

Really, nobody cares about my commute or whatever but, with humour and analysis, we realise we’re all on the same meaningless merry-go-round and, for a couple of minutes, you might have a real connection and feel a little less alone in the world

Dublin is where you started out but you are in London? What are the main differences between the two cities – in terms of their music and people?

London is probably the epicentre of European free-market capitalism - so that has is affect on the music and the people. Music is ‘the next big thing’ or something you never knew you needed in your life - but that you’ll struggle to remember in eighteen months time. Likewise, people are always busy-busy; swimming upstream, building up to the big tomorrow. British people really place a lot of value on hard work for its own sake and being ‘productive’: whereas Irish people are more likely to place value on good times and enjoying life.

Music-wise; Dublin is possibly more disposed to narrative songwriting and less fashion-led: however; the flip-side of this is an earnestness and celebration of mediocrity.

IN THIS PHOTO: Candice Gordon/PHOTO CREDIT: Maren Michaelis Photography 

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

My good friends Candice Gordon and A.S.Fanning have both recently released stunning albums well worth checking out. I was lucky enough to work with both of them on the recording of Dead Capital - and look forward to doing so again

IN THIS PHOTO: A.S. Fanning/PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Taylor

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

Dick Gaughan – Handful of Earth

The high watermark of hard-left-hard Folk!

Bob Dylan – Blood on the Tracks

The first Dylan album I ever bought - and which I subsequently worked backwards from without ever achieving the completest fervour of some people I know! Not much else needs saying about this album, really, except that it’s some of the finest songwriting ever committed to tape.

Nina Simone - Nina Simone and Piano

A masterclass in how to perform solo…just perfect.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

I’ll be performing an Album Launch show at the Sebright Arms (in London) on 28th February - and expect to be announcing more tour dates over the next few weeks.

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

Stay hydrated.

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

I’ll be back in the loving bosom of my family in Dublin for a few days at Christmas - hopefully, enjoying some fine festive fare and libations.

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).

Frankie Goes to Hollywood – The Power of Love

________

Follow Louis Brennan

Official:

http://www.louisbrennanmusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/loubrennanmusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/loubrennanmusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/loubrennanmusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/loubrennanmusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5eRh5Xg_elT5iPUgc_cmiQ

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3YLTIRLHAYjQKqoLC4PJjd

INTERVIEW: Mereki

INTERVIEW:

 PHOTO CREDIT: Lindsey Byrnes 

Mereki

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MOST of us would struggle, if we lived there, to move…

 PHOTO CREDIT: Lindsey Byrnes

from Australia to another part of the world. To be fair to Mereki; she moved to L.A. – and seems rather at home there! I ask the songwriter about the move and her new E.P., Beach, and which of the songs is her favourite; what it has been like putting it together; if we can see her perform anytime soon – and what it is like gigging alongside Dhani Harrison!

Mereki tells me about the albums and musicians who mean the most to her; why there is little time for relaxation before Christmas; what she would tell new songwriters as they embark on their first steps; a few albums that are especially meaningful to her – and a few new acts that are definitely worth some time and attention.

________

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

Hello! I’m great.

My week has been lovely. Just back from tour and settling back into L.A.

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

Hi. I’m Mereki. I write songs that I mean and put them to music that I like - and then I try to sing them in public spaces.

Beach is your new E.P. It is an exciting and original release. What does it feel like having it out there?

It feels like freedom.

I’ve been working on this E.P. for a long time now and I’m very happy to have a cohesive piece of work in the world - I have so much more coming!

What sort of times and themes inspired the songs? Do you have a favourite number?

Mostly hard times that forced me to become a better human being, to be honest.

My favorite track is It Will; which is all about surrendering our ‘control’ gene and allowing the universe to do its thing. I also love the drums on this track and am really proud of myself for making a song with positive messaging that actually sounds cool (I think) and not cheeeeessyyyyy.

I like French Kissing. It is a strong and compelling opener. Is that based on personal relations and experiences?

Oh yes, they all are (smiles).

Thank you! I was falling in love and, therefore, feeling the full spectrum of human emotions - from romantic, gooey heart flutters to utter fear; pain and vulnerability. Ha.

It Will, which closes the E.P., is an interesting nod to the future. Can you tell me about that song and how it came together?

I had just gotten back from a songwriting trip to Iceland that had kind of shaken me back to my core - and this was actually the first song I wrote for the E.P. with a dear friend of mine, Nate Donmoyer. As I mentioned; this song is about life and letting go. Sometimes, I realize that I write songs to remind myself of what I need to remember later...

I could do with remembering the chorus of this song every day for the rest of my life, probably – “If it’s meant to happen, then it will/If it’s meant to be mine, then it will”. It’s kind of like a mantra, I guess. We humans are so silly thinking we have control over stuff all the time - and assigning so much importance to so much sh*t that doesn’t matter. Let it go! Jump in the ocean! Hug your friend! Make a joke!

Life’s too short and precious to be spent dwelling on the things we can’t change.

Los Angeles is where you are based. What is the music scene like there? Do you feel like it is the perfect place to watch your music grow?

Definitely. It’s very fertile ground to create music in; loads of amazing people to collaborate with and lots of wonderful opportunities. We (just) need to make sure you don’t drink the Kool-Aid. Stick to your guns and don’t let others tell you what your music should sound like - you’re the only one who knows that…

PHOTO CREDIT: Work Horse Studios

You were born in Australia. What was the reason for moving to the U.S.? Is there a big difference in terms of the music scenes?

Music and (just) a much bigger pond…

I like being a little fishy. I love the Australian music scene because it’s very organic and creative: I love the U.S. because there are just endless opportunities.

Who are the artists you grew up listening to? What are your early recollections of music?

My first cassette was (by) Angelique Kidjo and I would listen to it every single night to fall asleep to. After that; I became a bit of a teenybopper listening to Aqua and the Spice Girls before moving into Jewel (bless) and, eventually, Elliott Smith, The Get Up Kids and Roxy Music in my teens. Classic Aussie rock bands like INXS and Midnight Oil were kind of the soundtrack to my upbringing (by default), though; so my taste, still, is extremely varied.

My earliest recollection of music is, probably, my dad strumming on his guitar to nothing in particular.

IN THIS PHOTO: Miya Folick/PHOTO CREDIT: Maya Fuhr

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Empress of. Her record, Me, that she wrote, produced; recorded and mixed herself is very close to perfection to me.

Also; Miya Follick and Tei Shi are ones to watch out for….

Oh…and that Phoebe Bridgers record!

IN THIS PHOTO: Phoebe Bridger

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

Oh man; that’s rough!

Either/Or OR Figure 8 by Elliot Smith

Because they’re STILL THAT GOOD.

Heaven or Las Vegas by Cocteau Twins

Because it’s so special and perfect.

All Things Must Pass by George Harrison

No explanation needed.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

Eek. I just finished a tour - but I’ll have some shows lined up in L.A. for February!

PHOTO CREDIT: Steve Rose

You are the opening act for Dhani Harrison. How did that come about?! What is he like?

We were introduced by his manager, David Zonshine, because he was looking for a female vocalist for his forthcoming record - which I ended up featuring on. He’s a very wise, intelligent; unique, deep and caring soul with a huge heart. I feel very blessed to have met him and his beautiful family - think I might have known them from another lifetime actually…

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

Be open - but not so open that you become closed. Be strong but soft. Be kind to yourself and to others. Listen to the little voice inside your heart that always knows what to do.

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

YES! I have my annual holiday benefit coming up this Friday for my fave women’s shelter, Alexandria House. So; I’ve been working round the clock since I got back from tour - on the decorations - and making sure everyone knows what song they're singing - and figuring out if Santa’s coming! Ha.

AND I’m releasing my first-ever original Christmas song this week...and then, next week, I’m recording the six songs I sing on Dhani’s record at a live recording of his record at Henson Studio...and THEN my family are coming and it’s all soaking in hot-tubs and drinkin’ hot chocolates from then on...or soaking in hot tubs WITH hot chocolates, if I’m lucky.

I’M WILD LIKE THAT.

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).

Jai Paul - Jasmine

THANKS! HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

________

Follow Mereki

 PHOTO CREDIT: Lindsey Byrnes

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INTERVIEW: Fergus

INTERVIEW:

Fergus

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THE debut single is a hard thing…

to get right (and predict). Every artist is nervous when it comes to putting out that very first effort – the world is watching and it is quite nerve-wracking! Luckily, when it comes to Fergus; here is an artist who strikes hard with You or Nothing - it is a song I was keen to find out about. He discusses its conception and story; the sort of music he grew up listening to – and whether there are any gigs before the end of this year.

I ask Fergus how he feels this year has panned out; a few of the records that have shaped who he is today; a collection of new artists he has been following; whether there are plans in place for 2018 – what Christmas has up its sleeve for the young songwriter.

________

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

Hey! I’m well, thanks - hope you are too...

It’s Friday evening and I’m about to have breakfast for dinner. I’m actually moving at the moment so it’s been an eventful but exciting week; topped off yesterday by seeing the grading for my first music video (coming in January).

Super-surreal! 

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

Ok; so, I’m Fergus (hi). I’m a singer/songwriter from Cambridge - now based in London. I’ve been writing songs for about four years. I tend to write based on my mood and often find my imagery and inspiration in nature. I hope people find some meaning in the songs which is relevant and personal to them.

That’s my aim, at least…

 

You or Nothing is your latest single. What is the story behind it?

My first! (Smiles).

I wrote You or Nothing almost three years ago - during a particularly low time. I never even uploaded or performed it. I was living in Bristol with a friend in a mouldy flat. I’d been trying the singer-songwriter thing there and felt I’d failed. We were both super-down - no friends (apart from our kind neighbours); no direction, no love - and we both ended up moving away a couple of months later (still best friends!). So, I think that’s where the desperation and craziness come from, lyrically.

It feels nice and poetic to me that this song is now the first of what is, honestly, my rebirth.

Jake Gosling produced it. What was it like working with such an experienced producer?

An embarrassment of riches - this was my first time working with any producer. Jake is such a warm and insightful guy; my nerves melted away and the whole process was just…easy….and fun!

I think we worked really well together - and can’t wait to start on the next songs.

I hear there is an E.P. due early-2018. Can you reveal the sort of songs and themes you document on the E.P.?

Ah, yes; you hear very well.

So far there’s going to be another song from around the same time as You or Nothing called Sinking. It’s about feeling helpless; like you’re not in control anymore. There’s quite a few in that vein we could use but I think the other songs will be a mixture of old and new; still reflective, acknowledging the past and present - but looking ahead to the future with hope.

How do you feel about 2017? Has it been quite an exciting and productive one?

2017 has been weird: a tale of two halves, really. The first was relaxing and indulgent; almost like I was getting all that out of the way - the calm before the storm, if you like. I met Jake in August…

Since then; everything’s happened so quick it’s been hard to keep track. But; I’m taking stock now and relishing it - because next year and beyond will be go, go, go!

Tell me about the artists you followed at a young age. Who were your early idols?

So; my dad has been known to occasionally display some pretty bad taste - fashion, jokes etc. - but his music taste has always been great. When I was really young, the house was often filled with stuff like Al Green, Simon & Garfunkel; Norah Jones, Pink Floyd and The Jam (and Stiff Little Fingers - when my mum was out).

The first artists I remember really getting into myself were Natasha Bedingfield, KT Tunstall and Goldfrapp.

Your voice has its own personality – but seems to have shades of some classics figures. Has it taken a lot of patience and work getting your voice that good?

Wow, thank you so much! I think it has taken some time to evolve (or devolve) - I had a lot of training when I was young and singing in choirs. Looking back now; to forget all of that and find my own voice has taken years.

The way I sing now is how I sing to myself - which is something I never used to do.

IN THIS PHOTO: WILSEN/PHOTO CREDIT: Shervin Lainez

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

WILSEN have been around for a few years but they’re new to me (and I love her voice). The video for Final is beautiful.

Soccer Mommy has a couple of nice tracks off the album (up at her Vevo). She did an Audiotree Live session recently, too, and Inside Out - on that - is really great.

IN THIS PHOTO: Soccer Mommy

Gotta check out NUXXS. Her E.P., Pearl, was released a month or so ago and it is gorgeous. Also; give Out the Blue a listen – tune!

If you haven’t already discovered Siv Jakobsen...I saw her play back in May and she’s totally magic.

He’s not a new artist but Fog Lake always puts out great stuff. I like keep a light lit, holy cross and rattlesnake (to name a few).

IN THIS PHOTO: Fog Lake

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

This has been really tough!

Al Green - Let’s Stay Together 

This was always playing at home in my earlier years. Hearing it takes me back to those days: when times were simpler and we were all together. It’s warm, full of life: timeless. Always brings a smile - happy or sad.

Sharon Van Etten - Because I Was in Love

Sharon is my favourite artist. This album can be hard to bear sometime - which is a good thing! It’s incredibly cathartic. Her voice is rich and heavy with emotion but still soars. Her songs are raw and vulnerable, but still sweet. I love her completely.

Rhye - Woman 

An education for me - that it was not only ok but actually sexy to have androgynous vocal vibes going on. The songs and arrangements are so luscious. When The Fall dropped…it was life-changing.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

That’s it for the year, I’m afraid.

Hopefully, we’ll get some lined up in the New Year and hit the ground running - when the next single comes out.

I believe you played at St. Giles-in-the-Fields. How did that gig go?!

Ah; it was so great. It’s a beautiful old church and a real oasis of calm - in a busy part of London. (I actually saw Rhye play there a few years ago). I feel very lucky and grateful to have been able to perform there, too. It was my first time up under the lights for about six months; so there were one or two cobwebs that needed blowing away.

I had a super-friendly crowd and it was the day of the single release - so there was a real buzz in the place that helped me out a lot.

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

Not sure how qualified I am to give advice at this point…but I’ll give it a go!

I guess what I’ve learned, from my experiences so far, would probably be more useful for aspiring artists. Firstly, I’d say practice, perform and persevere - it may take time for things to align for you, but when they do, you need to be ready to make the most of it. So; practice your songs, perform them - a bedroom is not a stage - and keep doing it...

Secondly; if you want other people to believe in your music, you need to believe in your music. (And you should). But, what I really mean by that is you need to appear to do so. You need to take that inner-belief you already have and make it visible to everyone else…which might mean sometimes not being modest and not downplaying your talent (which is scary to do).

Be brave, put yourself out there and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Be protective of your work but also receptive to new ideas, different perspectives and any feedback. Collaborate or don’t...whatever works for you. There’s no right way - you’ll only find yours by trying the wrong ones first.

I don’t know if this is helpful or not. These things weren’t obvious to me and didn’t come naturally: it’s advice I’m sure I was given and wish I’d received.

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

Every year it creeps up. Aside from the usual festivities, I’ll be working on E.P. hopefuls - before heading to my parents’ for a quiet one with our family.

We all have things to celebrate and for which to be thankful (smiles).

Is there a single highlight that stands out from the rest this year? What has been your proudest moment?

It’s got to be standing up in front of my family and friends; feeling their love and support and finally playing them my single…twice!

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).

Awesome. Thank you so much for your questions!

Please play Science Magpie - Here Too. 

I’ve been listening to this every day. It’s sunny, sexy and smooth as silk.

________

 Follow Fergus

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INTERVIEW: JohnlikeJohn

INTERVIEW:

JohnlikeJohn

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AS the title of the latest E.P. suggests…

JohnlikeJohn have their suspicions regarding vegans! Their Vegans Are Evil Too looks at hypocrisy and meditates on the cruelty of the world – adding laughter and a dose of depreciation. I speak to their leader, John (oddly), as he explains how the band came together; the themes and ideas that are expressed in Vegans Are Evil Too; whether comparisons to Tom Waits and Joanna Newsom are welcomed – and how his/the band’s music differs from what is already out there.

I ask whether there are any gigs coming and why there is theatricality and drama in the live shows; some great new musicians we should check out and get behind – and why John’s Christmas is going to be a rather rustic and ‘unusual’ occasion.

________

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

Not too bad…umm; what's happened?!

I finally wrote a new song after the longest creative drought so far. I got a good idea for a music vid for it too - though it does mean saying goodbye to my hair.

At least it can be made into a scarf or a paintbrush (or something).

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

My name is John. 

Vegans Are Evil Too is the new E.P. What sources of inspiration go into it?

So...Vegans Are Evil Too, for me, is like a saying that isn't a saying - but it should be. A sort of statement to say, ‘don't take yourself too seriously: we’re all equally ridiculous’.

A generation of try-hards, though - I do include myself in that.

Are you guys big, hungry meat-eaters? Do you think vegans have a sneaky dark side?!

Well; from the age of...well; until the age of seventeen, I was a strict vegetarian, born and bred. It was only until my friend tricked me into eating a chicken fajita (told me it was Quorn) that I started eating meat.

It was like Eve biting into the Fruit of Knowledge; though it didn't enlighten me: it just made me hungry. I still hold a lot of the same morals towards meat, but I'm a hypocrite. Haha.

It's not just vegans who have a dark side: it's everyone. 

It seems like Tom Waits and Joanna Newsom are influences. What is it about their music that draws you?

Joanna Newsom has that voice that makes you sad you’re not five anymore. I really like the contrast between her sweet somewhat naive voice and the darkness in her music. It's pretty much the same way I tackle hard issues - except I use comedy to soften the blow.

Tom Waits inspires the more theatrical side of my music; especially when we perform live. He's a proper song-and-dance man.

Your music has a quirky but accessible sound. Do you think too many modern bands are safe and predictable?

There's no doubt that music, these days, has become pretty vanilla (for the most part).

After decades of intricate musical and cultural evolution - from beatniks, boppers; Blues and beyond - we've ended up with Simon Cowell in charge. Oh, balls. So, yeah, artists definitely play it safe - but probably because, if they stray from the status quo, they won't make any money. But I get it. Kind of. We are continually being fed music and film that is so limp and unchallenging.

It's bland and tastes a bit like chewed gum.

As a result; people are genuinely becoming illiterate to the arts. This isn't to say there's not good work being done - there's plenty - but it lives in the shadows of the all-powerful combine. 

Do you have favourite tracks from the E.P.? Is there that one moment that stands out?

Probably my favourite lyric in the whole E.P.: "Chicks just dig emotions" (from A Slice of Culture). It is something I used to say to my ex to get her angry.

Maybe it just works with exs… 

Can you tell me how JohnlikeJohn came together? Is there a story behind the name, too?

Back in St. Ives, there was a guy named John. John couldn't go five seconds without saying “Like. What's your name? Umm, well; like, it's, uh John; like, um; John...like”.

Plus; it's a nice note on my own narcissism.

It seems like you have varied tastes. Who are the artists you grew up on?

Both my parents are mad on music. I don't think I know anyone with a more extensive vinyl collection than my dad. From post-War Jazz to Post-Punk; Surf-Rock and Samba. I honestly couldn't pinpoint a particular style that's directly influenced my music. It would be easy to say that British/American Folk is my main source of inspiration, and to be fair, artists like Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell and Sandy Denny have shaped a lot of my style - but the same could be said for the The-B52’s and Frank Zappa. 

Folk music is (just) the music of the people: it’s an art form that needs to be contemporary and full of new voices and opinions – otherwise, rather than being the voice of the people, it just becomes warm larger and Pete Seeger…and that's a tragedy. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: King Krule

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

King Krule is pretty cool...

Connan Mockasin is another one to check out. He looks like a blend between Andy Warhol and Philip Seymour Hoffman.

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

Quadrophenia by The Who

It is such a powerful and beautiful album/film; so much so that I started wearing Ben Sherman and drawing the Mod sign in felt-tip pen on my bike helmet...

“We are the Mods; we are the Mods”. 

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

I don't think I'm in the position to give anyone advice…well, not useful advice at least.

Just don't write shit*y songs about your ex-girlfriend who dumped you. But, if you do; write about how you pissed yourself you were so sad or how you put on all her clothes she left - and you kissed yourself in the mirror pretending to be her. At least it's real and makes you feel something.

The more embarrassing and frank you are about your own feelings; the more people will respond – because everyone's embarrassed. 

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where can we see you play?

We play at The Islington (in Islington) quite a lot: it's a really good vibe and they have red-velvet curtains. So, it's a winner in John’s book. We've got a secret gig in the works. It's a biggie, so I can't say much.

Keep your ears pointed to my socials for more updates…

Your live shows have been noted for their sense of theatre and the peculiar. Is the stage somewhere you feel your music can speak without limits?!

At every gig, I imagine I'm the creepy compère from Cabaret - and that the rest of my band are sexy Parisian femme fatales. The reality is I usually look like a homeless cowboy at gigs - and the rest of my band are as much femme fatales as I am a teapot. My ‘origins’ are from working in theatres; which has shaped how I go about performing and preparing for a show. Usually, I decide on a character for the show. My favourite at the moment is Truman Capote (the excessively camp artist).

But, for the most part, I just get up on the stage and leave most of who I am in the wings - and (just) go crazy in front of the crowd and hope they like it.

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

I shall be returning to Cornwall to spend Xmas in my mum’s caravan; looking forward to bathing in an oil drum full of rainwater.

Yay. 

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

B-52’s - Strobe Light  

________

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INTERVIEW: Ashes and Dreams

INTERVIEW:

 Ashes and Dreams

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THE amazing duo Ashes and Dreams certainly…

distract one’s mind from the cold and wind with their hot single, Havana. It puts the mind and body in the Cuban capital and erases the sensation of a cold winter. Lisa (from the duo) talks about their formation and what other music we can expect from them; the sounds and artists that have influenced their own music; the festivals and dates they are involved with this/next year – what Ashes and Dreams hope to achieve next year.

I find out whether the guys will perform in the U.K.; whether the long-distance duo (they are split between the U.K. and Canada) have any ambitions already for 2018; some new artists we should get behind – and some useful advice for any ambitious songwriters coming through right now.

________

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

Hello, Sam! Our week has been fantastic – thank you.

We just finished performing our Chillout Groove Experience show at Selkirk’s Holiday Alley on the weekend with bass player Kris Kosie and keys player Paul Claxton (an outdoor festival – even frozen fingers and lips didn’t stop our performance!). 

Liv and I also released a new episode of our Indie-Dance/Deep-House podcast, The Dream House…and we are, of course, busy promoting our new album, Havana.

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

We are Ashes and Dreams; an Electro-Chill project originally started by myself (Lisa Saunders) and my lovely, talented bandmate, Liv Mircea. I live in Winnipeg, Canada - while Liv lives in Weston-super-Mare, U.K.

Despite the distance, we make our project work (and communicate daily).

Havana is the new track. What is the tale behind it?

Havana is the tale of two lovers dreaming of an escape to the sunny city of Havana. Lyrically, it’s based around a real-life trip my partner and I took to Holguin, Cuba, a number of years ago. Since then, we’ve had two children - and leisurely escapes to exotic destinations aren’t as often. It’s a wistful song of reminiscence.

Musically, I love hearing Liv’s influence, as he grew up in a one-time communist country (Romania) - and his father was a great admirer of communist leaders like Fidel Castro and Che Guevara.

It seems the track implores people to get away and experience something hot – like being in the Cuban capital! Was that thought in your mind when writing this?

The lyrics were written during the biting-cold Canadian months during a challenging day...

I felt like grabbing my partner by the hand and taking him on a last-minute flight to Cuba to get away from here for a bit. However, that’s not so easy when you have many obligations. We probably went skating or tobogganing instead. L.o.L.!   Musically, even though it is a Chillout-Dance track; Liv said he channelled a Led Zeppelin vibe into the production of this song.

Will there be any more material coming from you guys? What are you working on?

Yes, always.

We have been experimenting with more of a Deep-House sound this past year and hope to debut some of that work in 2018. We’re also busy lining up our 2018 concert-season and will be looking forward to playing the festival circuit next summer. It’s so much fun taking our music on the road: you really do get energized by the crowd.

Aside from that; we’re super-busy with our podcast, The Dream House.

Can you tell me how you guys got together at the start?

Certainly.

Liv and I were originally in a different band together years ago - when we both lived in Toronto, Canada. I have so many fond memories of hanging around with Liv, rehearsing at Wallace Studios; writing and hanging out at his place with his then-partner (both of whom are fantastic cooks). We reconnected in 2013 and decided to start a new project, Ashes and Dreams, as a long-distance songwriting collaboration.

Liv and his new partner, Ana, are our best friends.

What sort of music did you grow up with? Do you have quite varied tastes?

Liv certainly does! He counts Eagles, Queen; Rachmaninov, Led Zeppelin; Mussorgsky, Tchaikovsky; Yes and Genesis as major influences growing up.

Personally, I was raised in a family that treasured harder Rock & Roll music (my dad and older sister loved Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd; Heart, etc.) and for my mom, Christian music (I must know the lyrics to hundreds of Christian hymns). We would, literally, have Christian programming like Focus on the Family airing on the kitchen radio; then Living Loving Maid (She’s Just a Woman) blasting out next in the living-room. However, one day my dad played a record by Kraftwerk (The Robots, purchased from a garage-sale), and I was immediately scared, intrigued and hooked.

I love Electronic music and was more drawn to Devo, The B-52’s; then Depeche Mode, Kate Bush; Bronski Beat...anything that created a sonic atmosphere with innovative synths and melodies.

I am interested finding out what is the music scene like in Canada. Does it vary a lot depending on state and province?

As Canada is a mosaic of many different cultures; you can find literally any kind of music being performed here. That’s one of my favourite parts of living here. We have a francophone festival (Festival du Voyageur); multi-cultural festival (Folklorama - with the Indian pavilion being my favourite) and Winnipeg Folk Festival that showcases artists from around the world - from African to Australian acts.

In the Canadian Prairies, where I live, a lot of people like Country and Western music, Classic Rock; plus, like everywhere else in the world, Top-40 music. But, we also have a great E.D.M. scene and quite a few Electronic music festivals scattered throughout the country like Connect Festival in Saskatchewan - that Ashes and Dreams performed at last year - and MEME Festival here in Winnipeg.

IN THIS PHOTO: Skreamz

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Oh! Where to begin?

Liv and I are doing a new podcast where we dig up new treasures to listen to.  For new Indie-Dance acts, we really like Mert Omd and Skreamz’s new C.D.s; plus Mr. Agabiou, Ragasur and Chinmayi Tripathi.

Also; Litany, Nora En Pure and Dragonette.

IN THIS PHOTO: Nora En Pure

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

Liv says Relayer by Yes - but can’t explain why. Knowing some of Liv’s work as a painter; I can see why he’d select a Progressive-Rock album.

I find this such a hard question to answer - as there are so many. If I had to pick one, though, it would be Reach the Beach by The Fixx.    

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

We are taking our Ashes and Dreams Chillout Groove Experience show to the St. Amant FM Café on Feb. 2 and Portage la Prairie Concerts in the Park series on Aug. 2. Still signing the ink on the rest of our upcoming shows - but you can follow us on BandsInTown as we add them.

Do you plan on coming to the U.K.?

Yes. We were there in 2015 for a trip to Liv’s daughter’s wedding. Hopefully, will be there soon to play some concert dates. 

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

Liv says: “Work, work, work! No pubs, no cinemas; no holidays, no booze; no drugs. Be ready for a lifelong battle. Haha”.

Dedication definitely is a virtue when it comes to creating music. Please make time for your music, despite life’s challenges and your own self-criticism. Embrace the fact it is so easy to record music now and do it!

This is the spirit of our song, Voice Inside.

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

Liv will be taking the time to get some work done - especially as he was just home to Cluj in October I can’t wait until my sister, Christina, gets here with her three boys - so we can enjoy a big family Christmas at my sister Julie’s place.

Do Ashes and Dreams have a plan for 2018? What do you have in mind?

Work as hard as possible to promote our new album, Havana; perform as many gigs as our schedule will allow, song-write for our next album; produce our monthly podcast and explore more collaborations with fellow artists...

On a personal level: approach each day with gratitude. 

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).

Liv: Say My Name – ODESZA (ft. Zyra)

Lisa: Litany - Bedroom

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Follow Ashes and Dreams

Official:

http://www.ashesanddreams.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ashesanddreams1

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/AshesAndDreams1

  SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/ashes-and-dreams

 YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5AxSYM06KfiDgw3GuPUOFw

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/3i5CLDx6n1rG0EIwYrO4eX

INTERVIEW: Tatyana

INTERVIEW:

Tatyana

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IT is rare discovering an artist…

who can be found on stage with a laptop and harp! There is nothing predictable, ordinary or boring about Tatyana. I speak with the itinerant songwriter about her upcoming single, Runaway, and whether there is going to be more material soon. She is based in the U.K. but has spent years abroad in Boston and Singapore – and she is half-Russian.

All of this brew and worldliness combines in her music: a rich and fascinating concoction that mixes Pop and Classical strands into something fresh and alive. I speak to her about her blossoming and evolution in music; whether she has clear plans for 2018; if the Christmas period is going to be a tranquil one – the music she loves and is influenced by.

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

Hi, Sam! I’m very well, thanks.

My week was great – I got to see some old friends and my dad was in town for a few days, too.

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

I’m a harpist, singer-songwriter and producer. I like to combine all of it together – running my harp through all sorts of crazy effects; adding lots of lush vocals and electronic production. I call it ‘Harp-Pop’ - a genre I don’t think really exists yet.

My background is pretty mixed-up, too – I’m originally from London but have spent the last seven years abroad in Singapore and Boston, U.S.A. I’m also half-Russian, hence my name (Tatyana).  

Runaway is your forthcoming single (out in December). Can you reveal the story and background of that song?

Runaway came out of a jam with some friends from Berklee.

We were in a rehearsal and started messing around in Ableton – the main groove came from that. I wrote the lyrics that same night. A lot of my songs deal with transitions, escapism and identity. I’ve lived in a lot of different places and that means I’ve had to leave lots of good friends behind when I move.

Runaway is about taking that special someone with you into the next phase of your life.

These are early days but is there going to be more music coming down the line? What are you working on?

I’m sitting on a lot of new music that I’ll be drip–feeding my audience over the next few months. Since I left Berklee (two months ago), I’ve gone through a total creative shift which has opened me up to new possibilities in my sound. I’m keen to capitalize on that - so I’ve been working on new material that feels like an evolution from my older music.

There’s a very natural progression which I think is important for my audience to see. They can follow my musical journey on Instagram and see how I develop.

You are a classically trained harpist. When did you first take up the instrument? What is it about the harp that attracts you?

I was a Classical pianist first – and started playing when I was three-years-old. When I was about ten or eleven, living in Moscow and attending a Conservatory there, I decided I wanted to play another instrument. They only had a few options for me: one of which was the harp. After seeing it for the first time, I just knew that I had to play it. I love the harp.

There’s so much beauty there - not just in its timbral qualities, but in the aesthetic of the instrument itself. I find it incredibly calming and therapeutic to play and to listen to. There is also a rich history connected to the instrument – there is some form of a harp in every culture and society throughout time.

I think that’s really special.

The Classic sounds fuse with a dark atmosphere and modern production. Are there are particular artists, doing similar things, that inspired you to take that approach?

Electronic-Pop is having a moment right now...

There are lots of amazing artists out there who are absolutely fantastic. I find James Blake, Grimes and Kimbra are some of my biggest inspirations. They are all self-produced artists which I think we will be seeing more and more of now - that it’s become increasingly easy to make music in your bedroom.

I love having total control of my output and being able to create something exactly how I hear it in my head.

I believe you are back in London – having studied Electronic Production and Sound Design/Performance at Berklee College of Music. What was that experience like?! Have you learned a lot you are going to bring to your new music?

Berklee is an incredible place – there are four-thousand musicians in the college, which means that you’re surrounded, supported and challenged by some of the most talented musicians in the world. It was an intensive program and I got so much out of being in that environment.

Having said that; I’m quite keen on ‘de-programing’ myself now - and learning to look at music through an emotional rather than an analytical lens again. Berklee gave me many tools, including a deep-rooted love and understanding of Jazz harmony, improvisation and production.

All of the things I’ve learnt and studied will have a ripple-effect on my musical output - but we will have to wait and see as to how exactly it will manifest itself!

What is the scene like in Boston – where the college is located – compared to the U.K.? Did you get a lot of time to play whilst over there?

I’m very new to the U.K. scene, so I can’t make a comparison quite yet…

But, Boston has a thriving local music scene, as well as being a funnel into the N.Y.C. scene also. I played in a few different bands, including a staple of the Boston scene – Jaggery – an Avant-Garde/Rock-Chamber group featuring viola, double bass; harp, voice; drums and keys. Boston (specifically, Allston) also has a unique underground basement show scene - which was a lot of fun to be around and to play in. Although it tends to lean towards Rock/Punk genres, there has been a recent surge of Electronic music being showcased, too.

Some of my favourite shows I played were in Allston basements!

Often, there is a difference between being a musician and artist. Do you feel you have had to learn new disciplines to transition to a fully-fledged artist? Has it been a hard transition?

I feel like I’ve always been an artist first - it was really at Berklee that I started to take on a ‘musician’ role – from being a side-woman in other people’s bands; to playing background music gigs with the harp or working as a session harpist. I feel like in those sorts of situations your duty is to serve the music; whereas an artist’s role is to create a mythology and embody the music you create.

I’m coming back to that feeling more and more now - and I’m finally in a place to actualize it.

IN THIS PHOTO: Tirzah

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been listening to this artist, Tirzah recently - a track I really like is Make It Up. Someone else I like is Yaeji (from N.Y.C.).

Just dope women making amazing Electronic music.

IN THIS PHOTO: Yaeji/PHOTO CREDIT: Lydo Le

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

Oooof. That’s a hard question! Okay...

Currents – Tame Impala

I just love this album so much. It’s one of the few albums I have saved on my phone - I always listen to it when I’m travelling. Just perfection in the production, songwriting and arrangement.

Black Radio – Robert Glasper Experiment

A friend showed this to me during my very first week at Berklee - and it changed my life. I’d never heard harmony like that before. It sort of shaped my path at Berklee and opened up my interest in Jazz.

Begin to Hope – Regina Spektor

I don’t really listen to this as much anymore because I beat it to death when I first discovered it - but Regina was really my first deep musical love and a huge inspiration to me growing up. She’s half-Russian, like me, and also comes from a Classical background. I learnt how to play all of these songs and I think there’s still a (cringeworthy!) cover of Us on YouTube somewhere.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have lined-up?

For now, I’m taking some time off to reconfigure my live set; so you won’t be able to see the Electronic set until the New Year. Until then, I’m doing open mics to test out some new songs I’ve been writing. In the New Year, I’m going to Sweden to play a show with a dear friend and collaborator, Matilda Gratte.

She’s amazing; check her out, too, if you get the chance!

I can imagine your live set consist a laptop/technology with the harp. What can we expect from a live show? Is it quite a modern set-up (on stage)?

I run my harp through Ableton on my MacBook and have a couple other pieces of gear like a vocal harmonizer and some Midi controllers. I’ve got a new addition, too, which is my Korg Minilogue. I can’t wait to incorporate it into my live set-up. It also depends…I perform solo but have also performed in duo and trio configurations - which means I change up my set up to accommodate the other musicians.

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

Turn off your phone and focus on your art.

There are so many distractions in the world right now and there’s a pressure to be always available - but that can be a difficult environment to create in...

Without focus, it’s impossible to get better.

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

I think this will be my first Christmas at home with my family in London for a while. I’m really looking forward to it.

But, other than Christmas Day itself; it’s going to be the same old grind for me!

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).

Shake Em Off by Syd

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Follow Tatyana

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/blueharpgirl

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/blueharpgirl/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/blueharpgirl/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/tatyana

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCedZyvzTYsPlxNAv3p0uqkg

INTERVIEW: AVEC

INTERVIEW: 

AVEC

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AUSTRIA is a nation I have not visited…

for quite a while. I am excited to discover a great songwriter from there - AVEC is someone who excites me and has released the remixes of her song, Waiting For. The E.P. includes versions by Electronic producers Alex Schulz, HOUT and Nora Medin. First to rework the track was acclaimed producer Alex Schulz, who has a string of successful remixes in his wake. I ask AVEC about the remixes and why she decided to release the E.P.; the artists who inspired her to get into music; whether there are any tour dates coming this/next year – and what plans there are for new music.

She tells me about her current material and how it differs from 2015 E.P., Heartbeats; a couple of new names we should all keep our eyes on; the three albums that mean the most to her – and whether this Christmas will provide a chance for rest and reflection.

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

Heyya. I am fine, thank you - and my week has been great so far!

How are you?

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

My name is AVEC. I am a singer/songwriter from Austria.

I started writing my own songs in combination with the guitar when I was about fourteen-years-old. In 2015, I released my first E.P., Heartbeats,  followed by the debut record, What If We Never Forget, in 2016.

I have been touring in Europe with my band and now we’re working on the second record - which will be released in 2018.

Waiting For (Alex Schulz, HOUT and Nora Medin Remix) is your new single. Can you tell me about the song and how you came to work with those guys?

I wrote the song, Waiting For, during a car-ride with my best friend. The clouds were impressive that day and we were like driving right into the sunset - it was such a pretty atmosphere. 

The main topic of the song is, probably, that our entire human journey through life is somehow about  'waiting‘ - it’s like a constant condition - we are all kind of waiting for something or someone - and this can sometimes be really depressing and disappointing.

We connected via Facebook. They were all interested in the song and had the idea of remixing it; so I thought, 'why not‘ - let’s try this and it worked out pretty well, I guess.

This is the latest release of the remixes selection. What was the reason behind bringing in other producers/artists to rework the material?

It was actually just kind of an idea to try something new...

I really like to listen to remixes of artists or songs I am into - it’s interesting how a remix can change a song in a good way or in a way you never thought of it before.

Is there a particular remix that stands out? Is there a single song that, you feel, has been heightened and improved?

I really like all of them. It’s kind of hard to say which is my favourite one - cause they are all different.

Your music reflects heartbreak and life experiences. Is it quite cathartic putting these subjects into your music?!

It is, actually. I am not really good at talking about my feelings and thoughts; so my music helps me out with that. Anything that kind of bothers me or is on my mind, I try to put into my lyrics and music.

I notice a development between your 2015 E.P., Heartbeats, and your latest work. Do you feel like you have grown as a writer/singer?

Definitely. At the time we recorded the E.P. I was nineteen-year-old and I didn’t know anything about music or the music-business – so, it was like jumping into cold water. Now, I know a lot more about how I want my record to be, how it should sound; how I want the lyrics to say what I mean and so on – so, I definitely grew with every year.

Is there going to be a new release next year? What are you working on right now?

There will be a new record 2018 and I am more than excited about it - I am currently working on it.

IN THIS PHOTO: Max Parvosky

In terms of the musicians you are inspired by: do you take great guidance from new talent or older sounds? Which artists do you admire most?

I think I am more into older sounds: I love Michael Jackson for example, or B.B. King; Prince... 
I admire Bon Iver, Ben Howard; The Lumineers and Keaton Henson (and, of course, many more...).

These are amazing artists with a lot of emotions and love in their songs and music.

IN THIS PHOTO: Jade Bird

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Jade Bird and Gordi.

IN THIS PHOTO: Gordi

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

Oh; that’s a tough one!

Bon Iver - For Emma, Forever Ago

I love this one because of the lo-fi-recording and the ton of emotions and feelings Justin Vernon captured. I can listen to the record over and over again and I still get goosebumps - it’s perfect.

Michael Jackson – Thriller

Well; this was probably the first record I’ve bought and it is still amazing - my two favourite songs from this album are Human Nature and P.Y.T.

Kings of Leon - Only by the Night

K.O.L. are one of my favourite bands and, even though I like the older records way more than the new ones, this one is very special to me because of the last song, Cold Desert - it means a lot to me!

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

I think the most important thing is to love and to enjoy what you are doing and to believe in yourself.

Be yourself and don’t try to be somebody else.

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

I am going to play at the Eurosonic Festival in January; a few concerts in Austria during the year, and in autumn, I and the band will be on tour with the new record (but there are no explicit dates yet).

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

I’ll spend the days at home with my family - and probably work on a couple of new songs.

What are your aims for 2018? Do you have a game-plan you hope to fulfil?

First of all; I will release my album and play a couple of nice gigs...

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).

Boots of Spanish Leather by Bob Dylan 

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Follow AVEC

Official:

http://officialavec.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/avec_music

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/officialAVEC/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/officialavec/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/avec_official

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4vbbYmRRVuXGPlagPGIS6g

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6N8vbhxZ0CYJHd8WGJ9Snf