INTERVIEW: Erin Pellnat

INTERVIEW:

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 Erin Pellnat

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I am excited to revisit the music of Erin Pellnat...

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as the Brooklyn musician is someone I am very excited about right now. She discusses her new single, Neighborhood Boys, and whether there is going to be more material. I ask about her influences and what the music scene is like in Brooklyn/New York; if there are plans regarding U.K. dates; albums that are especially important to her – if there are new artists out there we should keep an eye on.

Pellnat reveals her inspirations and gives some advice to news artists; whether she will be recording any more music with her band, Caretaker; how her father drives her music (Chris Pellnat is a successful artist) – and how she spends her downtime.

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

Very busy!  I’m a musician but I also have a ‘day-job’ - so I’m always on the run in New York City!

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

I’m an unsigned singer-songwriter from Brooklyn, New York. I am the lead singer of the band Caretaker - as well as doing my own solo music and collaborations with other musicians. I’m a graduate of City College where I studied Jazz Vocals - not sure if you can hear that influence in my music though, but it’s there!

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The last time I encountered your music was when I reviewed the track, Dream in Color. How do you feel you have developed and changed as an artist since then?

I am always moving forward...

There is so much great music being created all the time and I always want to be part of that - to contribute to what is happening in the culture in my own way. I think my musical style is constantly evolving based on what I hear out in the world and who I work and collaborate with.

Neighborhood Boys is your latest track. What is the story behind the song?

This song is about class and love...

You know how, if you ride a bus; each bus stop is in a different neighborhood?! Some neighborhoods are wealthy, some poor. The singer is secretly in love with a guy from another bus stop – and, hence, a different socio-economic class.

It seems like, when it comes to subjects about love and life, you take an original approach. Do you think a lot of songwriters lack unique flair and real depth?

I think there are so many wonderful songwriters out there I admire so much – sometimes, it’s because of the depth and resonance of their work; but, other times, it’s because they can write so simply and straightforwardly - with no apparent 'flair' at all. 

I don’t think there’s a lack of depth or flair: it’s a matter of what kind of song it is.

Is there going to be more music coming this year?

I’m always working on new music; both with my band and solo so, yes, expect more!

What sort of music did you grow up listening to? Were you raised in a household that promoted broad and eclectic music tastes?

Yes. I was definitely exposed to all types of music growing up: from Rock and Reggae to County and Classical.

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Your father is a successful and established musician. How much have you learned from him?

My dad is a big influence and a huge supporter of me and my music. I think, what I’ve learned most from him, is to be yourself and let everything flow from there…

Brooklyn, where you are based, is still one of the most sought-after spots for new music. Has the landscape changed over the past few years? It used to be famed for its awesome Hip-Hop and Rap. What kind of music is favoured there now?

There’s still plenty of great Hip-Hop and Rap in Brooklyn - and tons of great Indie-Rock. The scene continues to change with all different types of music - some gets more attention than other types - but it’s all happening all the time! 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lloyd Vines

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

In Brooklyn, there’s so many: I’ll just point out a couple: I like the Hip-Hop artist Lloyd Vines and the Rock band Citris.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Citris

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

Simple Things by Zero 7, Tragic Kingdom by No Doubt and Getz/Gilberto by Stan Getz and João Gilberto.

These three records were seminal in terms of introducing me to the possibilities in very different musical genres.

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

Stay true to your vision but, since music is a collaborative art; be open to others contributing and helping you shape your vision.

What tour dates do you have coming up? Can we see you in the U.K. anytime soon?

Unfortunately, I won’t be coming to the U.K.

Right now; I’m working on a new Caretaker record - after which, we’ll be doing more gigs in Brooklyn.

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Do you have any ambitions of resolutions for this year at all?

It’s a new year and my goal is simple: I hope to make lots of great music!

Will you get any downtime at all? How do you spend your time away from music?

I love hanging with friends in Brooklyn and watching movies. I know that may not sound too exciting but, sometimes, you need to just put work aside and chill out. It’s important to step away, recharge and come back to music with fresh ears.

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).

Equus by Blonde Redhead

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INTERVIEW: Kaia Kater

INTERVIEW:

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Kaia Kater

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IT would be tempting to come back to the U.K...

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regarding my interviews but, with so much international talent on display; I have been speaking with Canadian artist, Kaia Kater. She talks about her Afro-Caribbean roots – how they affect and influence her music – the stories and inspirations that went into her 2016-album, Nine Pin; whether we can expect a follow-up – some of the new artists we need to check out.

I ask Kater the music scene where she is; whether she is excited to be in the U.K. (she is touring through January and February); the artists who inspired her growing up; why Nina Simone is an idol; the three albums that mean the most to her – and whether she has any resolutions/aims for this year.

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

Hey! It’s been great. Thanks for asking!

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

I am a musician and songwriter. I play the banjo, piano and, most recently, the guitar.

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Nine Pin was released in late-2016. What influenced the album’s songs? How would you sum up the record?

Sure. Nine Pin was a culmination of my time living and studying old-time music in Elkins, West Virginia - as well as my growing desire to write songs about my own life and perspective. There are a plethora of traditional songs as well as original ones; joined together by Moog, trumpet and dulcet electric guitar songs.

How does it feel looking back at the album? It has gained huge praise! How humbling is that?!

It is humbling: I had no idea it would receive the positive attention that it has. It’s nice to see a piece of your art – of your heart, really – affecting people in such a way.

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Last year; you went on a U.K. tour supporting Rhiannon Giddens. What was that experience like?

It was a lot of fun. I’d never played to such massive crowds before and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was lovely to open for such a seasoned and powerful performer as Rhiannon - I learned so much from watching her show every night.

Toronto is where you are based. I have not experienced too many Bluegrass/Blues artists from that area! Is it quite a rare sound there, do you think?

Sure - but not more than anything else. Music of all styles has the ability to travel and reach new ears. There’s quite a lot of fantastic old-time musicians in Toronto for that reason.

Canada is among the most fertile countries for music. Why do you think this is so?

I believe that the government has a large part in it: arts agencies help to fund musicians, dancers and visual artists. We get further along in our careers because of the generous aid being offered to us.

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I notice similarities to Nina Simone (in your music). Is she someone you are inspired by? Which artists are most important to you?

Ah yes: I’m definitely inspired by Nina Simone.

I’ve loved her since I was young; she just had a way of performing that was quite entrancing. In my piano lessons, I’d request (to learn) her songs. I learned Forbidden Fruit once when I was thirteen and performed it onstage. It was the first time I’d sung and played live.

It was terrifying, but also gratifying, because I was belting out Nina’s words.

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Can we expect any new material this year at all?

Yes. I am currently writing for my next album - due late-2018 or early-2019.

How important is your Afro-Caribbean background to your musical identity? Has your heritage and family played a big role?

Yes, they have. I’m sure families play a huge role in any artists’ life, whether positive or negative. My family is quite eclectic and extremely loving and encouraging. I do mine our past for poetry or song material; but, I think that’s an affliction that tempts every artist...like Sartre speaking about the ‘madeleine’ cookies of his childhood at such lengths. It’s not about the cookies: it’s about the point in time during which they took place: his boyhood.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Aldous Harding/PHOTO CREDIT: Cat Stevens

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Aldous Harding, Courtney Marie Andrews; Xenia Rubinos, Tank and the Bangas.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Courtney Marie Andrews/PHOTO CREDIT: Laura E. Partain

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

Miles Davis – Kind of Blue

It’s a classic.

Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

A feminist/womanist Hip-Hop anthem.

Bob Marley – Kaya

For obvious reasons - I was named after that album.

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

Forgive and celebrate yourself…

You are not perfect; not every show will go incredibly. You’re human. Have fun and move on.  Most of all – play. Joke around: don’t be so serious. Develop a mantra. Mine is: “I love myself, I accept myself; I am worthy”. Before you hit the stage, or in the lowest moments in your career (filled with the most self-doubt); repeat your mantra...

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I know you are in the U.K. and Ireland to tour through January and February. Which dates are you most looking forward to? How do you find the British/Irish crowds?

I love the crowds overseas!

There’s such an appreciation for Folk music in the U.K. (Ireland and Wales). That is very rare and special. I love sharing my songs with you all. I’m looking forward to playing at Celtic Connections in Glasgow - because I’ve admired the festival for a long time. I’m also looking forward to playing Leap Castle in Roscrea because…you know…it’s a CASTLE.

We don’t have too many of those back home…

Do you have any ambitions of resolutions for this year at all?

To love myself more fully and completely.

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).

Really?! Wow…okay, okay; um….

How about Coyote by Jonathan Byrd? That’s one of my favourites

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INTERVIEW: SUB BLUE

INTERVIEW:

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 SUB BLUE

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HE is one of the most exciting young artists…

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on the block right now. I have been learning more about SUB BLUE and his new single, Range Rover. He gives me a window into his creative process and the artists who have inspired him. I ask about his base in Liverpool; whether there is a thriving local scene; which new artists we should keep an ear out for – what we can expect from the upcoming E.P., Suburban View.

SUB BLUE discusses his upbringing and the music he was raised on; how his live performances differ from his work in the studio; what it was like working with XamVolo – and how modern life/suburbia influences his creativity.

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Hi SUB BLUE. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. I’m good, thanks. It's been a busy week - since it was the first week back at uni.

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

I’m an Alt-R&B artist from Merseyside; making what I call ’Suburban-Blues’.

Range Rover is your new single. What can you tell me about the song’s story and inspiration?

I wrote Range Rover to explain that, although Suburbia may seem like it is the perfect setting, in reality, it’s often the opposite and that we experience problems and pain the same as the next person - but we just hide behind our material things.

It seems the nature of suburbia and keeping up appearances is integral to your work. Do you feel we are often forced to feel a certain way – assume a mantle of happiness and hide our anxieties?

My generation has a lot of pressure on them and I do think the majority feel like they have to abide by certain stereotypes or do certain things in order to fit in – which, I believe, is leading to a bit of a lost generation. I think we value a lot of material things and ‘fake’ interaction more than real relationships and experiences.

I’m not immune from this either - which is probably why I can touch on it in my music.

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The song is taken from your E.P., Suburban View. Can you talk more about the songs/ideas you explore on the E.P.?

The set of songs that make up the E.P. are the first concise look at this world I live in and I’ve come from; with themes centered around reality vs. perception and expectation. It’s not just a look at suburbia: it’s also a look at teen life and coming-of-age as well as pop culture. So, suburbia, almost, is like a fictional place - which isn’t just for those born into a certain income bracket - but more those born in a generational age bracket in the Western world.

The best way I’d describe the songs is ‘voyeuristic’ - because a lot of the things that happen are things I’ve observed closely. In terms of specific topics; I touch on everything from social media to depression; to love to drugs to heartache.

I’m planning to go much deeper on future projects.

I notice XamVolo is one of the artists/producers who helped on the E.P. How did you come to meet him?

I think the first time I met Xam was back at LIMF in 2014; but we have the same manager and we both got on because we have the same huge passion for music – and, ever since meeting him; he’s been like a big brother to me.

There are a few producers on the E.P. How did you come to select the producers - and what did each of them bring to the recording?

Just connecting with people on the subject and vibe really. The process took a minute but I’ve been lucky to work with the likes of Sir Dylan and A.V whilst in L.A., and then, an amazing group of emerging producers, domestically, including XamVolo, TeeSoulful; Cameron Warren, Joe Warriner and Mikey Gormley.

I think developing such a good relationship with all the guys made the process so much more fun - and each gave me a little something extra to bring out the full theme.

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Tell me about Liverpool and how influential the city is. Is it somewhere that gives you energy and motivation?

I feel like there has always been vibrant creativity in the city - and we are known for that – but, recently, I feel like the urban culture is growing and being enhanced…with lots of likeminded creatives connecting and supporting each other.

It’s hard not to be inspired...

Are there quite a few great local artists who look likely to break out in the next few years?

Yeah. I definitely think XamVolo is one to watch! You have the likes of Taya, Astles and Aystar - who are already doing their thing - but are sure to make a dent nationally and internationally.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Mahalia

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Hare Squead, Tom Tripp; Mahalia, Madison Beer and XamVolo.

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IN THIS PHOTO: XamVolo/PHOTO CREDIT: Robin Clewley

Which artists did you latch onto as a youngster? Was music a part of your childhood?

I grew listening to a lot of old-school R&B and Hip-Hop around the house: both my parents were hugely into music artists like Luther Vandross, 2Pac; Biggie, SWV and loads of others. I’d say music was a massive part of my childhood - and it put me on my path to becoming an artist.

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

The three albums I’d choose would be Frank Ocean’s Channel Orange; The Weeknd’s House of Balloons and Kanye West’s 808’s & Heartbreaks.

I feel like those were the albums that massively impacted who I am as an artist - in terms of topics all three artists write about (and also, sonically).

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

I’m planning to - just want to make this music connects first and then take it on the road. But, definitely, there will be some shows across the U.K. coming up.

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What differences are there between your recorded material and live shows? Do you bring different elements to a live performance?

I think there’s there definitely more live instrumentation added into the live set: more of a dynamic in terms of the emotion portrayed in the songs when I play them live.

Any New Year’s resolutions made this year? What do you hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

My New Year’s resolutions are (just) to keep writing and making music and, hopefully, to be working towards my second E.P. - or an album - by year-end.

Also…to buy fewer clothes (ha!)

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Chanel – Frank Ocean

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INTERVIEW: Safari Gold

INTERVIEW:

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 Safari Gold

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MY tour of the musical world takes me to Cardiff…

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and to the feet of the wonderful Safari Gold. I have been speaking with the guys about their latest single, Easy Company; how the band got together; what the music scene is like in Cardiff – and what events/stories inspired their eponymous album (out now).

I ask them about their favourite music and whether there are gigs coming up; whether the media attention they have been afforded gives them confidence; how their album came together (given the fact various members were in different parts of the world before it creation); new talent they recommend we investigate – whether they have any New Year’s resolutions plotted and ready to go…

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

Hi! Great, thanks. It’s been an incredible week if I’m honest. We released our debut album and played a sold-out show in our hometown of Cardiff.

Dream weekend.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yourselves, please?

Well; we’re called Safari Gold and we are four close friends that have been making music together since the age of thirteen. We take influences from all over the place - but we’re, essentially, an Alternative-Pop band.

Pop music for the thinking people…

What is the origin of the name, ‘Safari Gold’? Is there significance behind that moniker?

Unfortunately, not much significance: we like safaris and we like gold. In hindsight; it does sound like something you’d read on a shampoo bottle.

 

I will ask about your album but, right now; tell me about the track, Easy Company. What is the story behind the song?

It’s about pushing through the fear of change - to live up to your potential. 

Your eponymous album is out. Can you distil the stories and ideas that go into the record?

Lyrically, the album is Danny’s baby and it spans a real range of life experiences. Danny’s a great lyricist, though. You need to listen a few times to the tracks to get an idea of what he’s saying.

It gives the album a lasting value.

It seems like you were all in different places and parts of the world before the album came together. Was it a hard record to get together?!

It took us a while, yeah!

The album is probably four years in-the-making. My brother, Lewys (album producer and drummer), was based in India for the better part of a year for work - and I probably spent eight-ten months abroad working during album process. It broke up momentum - but also gave us time to sit on ideas and recordings.

The final product definitely sounds like an album that wasn’t rushed.

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Is there a song from the album you each feel defines the band? Which is the one that stands in the mind?

Our lead single, Howl, was released two years ago and it really put us on the map - and got us some attention - so it’s the song that filled us with belief and confidence to go on and make this album. 

How did you all get together and form a band? Did you all know one another as children?

Yeah; so, myself and my little brother, Lewys, grew up on a mountain outside the Welsh valleys and our next door neighbour was Sion - so we all started playing instruments through our love of Blink-182 (as young teens).

Danny was in school with us and it all came together pretty quickly.

Not many people talk about Cardiff as a hub for new music! What is it like in terms of sounds and artists coming through?

Cardiff is great for new music. We actually feel a little out of touch with the new wave of bands coming through right now - but that’s because it’s an ever-evolving scene in Cardiff and we’re not teenagers anymore.

Bands like Boy Azooga, right now, are making a real name for themselves. It’s good to see.

It seems a lot of media sources have picked up on your music! How important is it to have their backing and support behind you? 

Going back to when we released Howl; Indie Shuffle blogged about it - and then another twenty to thirty blogs posted about it after. It was our first experience of anything like this and, since, people have paid attention. It does reassure bands that they’re onto something good but, either way, we would still make the music regardless of online support…

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Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

They aren’t that new...but The People The Poet are very good friends of ours and they’re incredibly talented - and their new album comes out this year (and it’s an absolute stormer). 

Which artists did you all grow up to? Were you raised in musical households?

Yeah. My brother and I grew up in a musical household. Our mum was a member of the first proper Welsh-language girl-group. She got us into music, really. Then; we grew up listening to a lot of Blink-182 and The Offspring.

A lot of American Punk-Rock!

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

As a band; perhaps Phoenix’s album, Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix, was a huge influence on us. There are just too many though...

The last few years, I’ve listened to so much of The War on Drugs. I’d say they’ve had a big effect on me personally.

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

Hopefully! We’re still doing everything on our own schedule but we’d love to get out and tour the album. Since the album launch, we have no gigs arranged. We’ll get it all going soon though.

No rush.

Any New Year’s resolutions made this year? What do you all hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

I personally want as many people as possible to enjoy our album. That’s number-one priority for us this year.

Finally, and for being good sports; you can each choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Morgan: The War on Drugs – Pain

Danny: Kendrick Lamar – HUMBLE

Sion: Blink-182 - Going Away to College

Lewys: Phoenix – Girlfriend

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INTERVIEW: Timsters

INTERVIEW:

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Timsters

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THE past couple of days have been an international affair…

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that is no danger of slowing down! I have stepped from the U.K. into Europe; over to Canada – it is now back to Europe! French artist Timsters tells me about his new single, Gone, and how it came together; how all those sounds and flavours unify and flow; the artists/sounds that compel him – and what it is like running the label, Elephant & Castle.

I learn more about Timsters’ creative process and what the next step is; whether he grew up in a musical household; if there is more material coming this year; the three albums that mean the most to him – and whether he has any personal goals in mind.

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Hi Timsters. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello! I’m great. My week was so cool - as my new track, Gone, was released on Tuesday (last). It’s always very exciting.

For those new to your music; can you introduce yoursel, please?

My name is Timsters. I’m from France and I produce Electronic-Pop music steeped in urban art.

I spent my childhood in a little city lost in the countryside - so, I’ve always fantasised about the big urban area. I also created the French label, Elephant and Castle, in 2017.

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Gone is the new single. What can you reveal about its story and background?

Two years ago; I didn’t know where I wanted to go: my life was a complete mess. I did some kind of experimental work; many little productions. One of them was the beginning of Gone’s creation. (It’s Called DHWYDU (Don’t Hate What You Don’t Understand); a John Lennon quote…you can listen to it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QEZ4Xl3PGm0).

I had spent a lot of time working on my melodies and musical arrangements; but, then, I wanted to deal with sounds, ambiences and experimental textures in depth. 

After that; I built some melodies and co-wrote the lyrics with the French artist, Praa.

It mixes styles and moods to create something extraordinary. Was it a hard song to put together – or was it quite natural?

The first part of the work was a kind of research: finding textures by mixing synthesisers with many samples I recorded. Indeed, I travelled a lot across the world and I took the habit of recording lots of ambiences in big cities.

So, producing this track was quite natural - as all the sounds were already there.

The song has elements of acts like Empire of the Sun and Pnau. Are they artists you are inspired by?

I only know the big single of Empire of the Sun, Walking on a Dream.  I don’t know Pnau - but I sure will go listen to them.

The video looks like it was interesting and fun! How involved do you get regarding the concept? What was the reason behind Gone’s treatment/look?

The music video was directed by the brilliant Gaultier Durhin. We wanted to show an artist creating in his workshop confronted by his own creation – from which he’s trying to escape. It shows his process of creation, as hard as it can be, and finally making the choice whether to keep his work or destroy it...

Will there be more material coming later this year?

I’m gonna release a new music video in March - also directed by Gaultier Durhin. I’m working on my first L.P.

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Tell me about the label, Elephant & Castle. Are they important to your sound and ethos? How supportive have they been?

I’m the founder of Elephant & Castle. I produce all the artists on the label for now. It’s a great adventure. It feeds me and inspires me so, yes; it definitely affects my work.

We are a family - and I’m so proud of that.

Did you grow up in a musical household? What music were you raised on?

My father is a musician: he taught me how to play the guitar. But, when I was a teenager, most of my musical inspirations came from MTV. Ha ha.

I listened to a lot of Pop Music.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Praa/PHOTO CREDIT: Ousseynou Cissé

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Praa & Armando Young.

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

Kid A – Radiohead

It’s the record that led me to experimental music.

L’Homme à Tête de Chou – Serge Gainsbourg

For his sense of narration and his avant-gardism.

Peter and the Wolf – Sergei Prokofiev

My first musical emotion.

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

Before touring, I want to finish my album. Producing the artists on the label takes me a lot of time, too. But; I can’t wait to share my songs with a live audience.

Any New Year’s resolutions made this year? What do you hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

Travel, multiple artistic collaborations - and spend more time with my friends and family.

Do you feel you have come a long way as a writer and performer since your earliest days? What are the biggest changes you have noticed?

I’ve been practising music since I was ten...

The hardest thing is to keep faith in what you are doing, in what you are. Collaborating and working with other artists is what gave me confidence in my work. Thanks to music; I lived great human experiences that taught me a lot (and made me grew up).

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What advice would you give to new acts coming through?

Collaborate, share; keep your singularity…just be yourself.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

Praa – Modeling Clay

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INTERVIEW: Falling Ghost

INTERVIEW:

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Falling Ghost

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THIS is the last of my interviews that…

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is held over from last year. Although Be Careful What You Wish For has been out for a few months now; I was eager to speak with Falling Ghost about the song and its origins. He talks about Manchester and how the city inspires his work; the sounds and artists that influence him; whether there is any more material coming – this is his debut single.

I ask about that unique moniker and how he has transitioned from his band, SYLVIA; what it was like working with John Davies on Be Careful What You Wish For; why Falling Ghost produced the song himself; advice he would offer up young artists – and what gigs he has in the diary.

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Hi, Falling Ghost. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m great, thanks and, yeah; it’s been really good so far, thank you.

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

Sure. I’m a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and producer from Manchester. I’ve just finished recording my first solo album.

Can I ask about the moniker?! Where does ‘Falling Ghost’ come from?

It’s actually the name of a song I wrote for my old band, SYLVIA. When I was thinking of a name for my new solo project…I just liked the sound of it.

Be Careful What You Wish For is your debut single. What is the inspiration behind it?

Musically, I was influenced by a lot of classic early-1990s Dance tracks with big synth sounds and heavily-processed drums - something like Killer by Seal and Adamski is a good example. I just love the atmosphere of it. Prince was also an inspiration; especially some of the tracks from his Sign o’ the Times album. I was also influenced by certain tracks from the XX’s first album.

Lyrically, I was going for something quite abstract and epigrammatic. I borrowed a few phrases from Saul Bellow’s Herzog. But, the general idea is one of realising the importance of what you have as opposed to what you want.

What has it been like working on the track with the guys at Regent Street Records?

Working on the track was actually really hard.

It took me ages to get a sound I was happy with. It started out as a guitar track - but, then, evolved out of all recognition as I continued to work on it. I must’ve started the song from scratch about one-hundred times; trying out different instrumentation and production styles before settling on something I was happy with.

Working with Regent Street Records has been good. They just let me get on with it really – and, as an artist, that suits me well.

You produced the song yourself. As a producer and multi-instrumentalist; do you think having that control means the music is more meaningful and pure to you?

Yeah, it does because, ultimately, you're responsible for absolutely everything on the track. So; it feels like more of an achievement - and is more satisfying when you finish something you’re completely happy with and then even more so when other people like it as well.

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John Davies mixes the song. What was it like collaborating with him in that sense?

It was great, actually. John’s one of the best mastering engineers in the world - so it was amazing to watch him work and to work with him on my album. He’s also a really lovely guy and we got on well.

Was it difficult going solo after a successful career with the band, SYLVIA?

Yeah. I found some things difficult...

Sometimes, it’s just useful to have other musicians around to bounce ideas off; it can give you another perspective on things. But, then, it’s also a lot easier to get things finished when it’s just you as there aren’t lots of conflicting opinions - and you don't have to arrange your life around other people. Being in SYLVIA was great, but I just think I was ready for a new challenge and it was time to move on.

Manchester is your home and plays a part in everything you do. How important is the city and its people to you?

I’d say it’s hugely important: Manchester’s an amazing city and has a great spirit; I love it.

When you think of all the great bands that have come out of Manchester, it inspires what you do. Music is such a massive part of what Manchester’s about: the city’s past and present - that as a musician - it’s a great environment to be in. I think, where you grow up, always shapes who you are and then that feeds directly into your art…so, in a way, they’re inseparable.

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Can you tell me the musicians you grew up and inspired your own sounds?

Ah…there are too many really.

I was a big Beatles fan when I was growing up and I loved a lot a sixties bands like The Doors, Bob Dylan; Frank Zappa and Motown. Then, I got into a lot of the Manchester bands and 1990s guitar-bands as well as EDM, Classical music and all sorts of other genres. I was always a big Prince fan, as well. At the moment, my biggest influences are Radiohead, Massive Attack; M83, Burial; Flying Lotus, Björk; Joy Division, Grizzly Bear and the XX.

But, I’m also inspired by lots of other things like literature and painting, too.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Cosmo Pyke/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

At the moment, I find a lot of mainstream British music a bit underwhelming - probably because major labels aren't taking risks anymore...because they literally can’t afford to - so it becomes a bit of a race to the bottom.

That said, there is still plenty of interesting music being made: you just have to look a little harder than you did before. I love Cosmo Pyke, King Krule; Stealing Sheep; Sampha, Novo Amor and Jorja Smith.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jorja Smith/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

I think you need to be able to do everything for yourself; from producing your own music, sorting out your artwork and videos; booking your own gigs and doing all the social media stuff. If you can do all that then you’re not beholden to anyone...

I also think it helps to have a good work ethic.

Can we see you perform anywhere soon? 

Yeah. I’m next playing in Manchester at The Eagle Inn on 14th February with a band called Hayes & Y.

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

Yeah. This coming year is going to be pretty busy for me. I’ll be releasing another few singles and videos and then, eventually, the full album. I’ll also be going out on tour around March. I’ve also started my next album - so I’m writing and recording every minute I have to spare.

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

I really like Brazil by Declan McKenna. It’s a really catchy song - and has been stuck in my head for the last week.

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INTERVIEW: iamhill

INTERVIEW:

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 iamhill

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FROM Belgium; it is off to Canada…

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so I can catch up with imahill - it has been a little while since I featured her last. She talks to me about her new single, GIAR (Give It a Rest), and the story behind it; what we can expect from the GIAR E.P.; why a particularly destructive lifestyle pattern forced the artists to take a step back; what the music scene is like in Canada right now – and whether iamhill will come to the U.K. soon.

I ask iamhill about her musical upbringing and inspirations; why she recorded her latest E.P. in a series of late-night sessions; the new artists we should be connected with; whether there are any goals for this year – if daily life and movements impact and inspire her musical creativity.

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Hey. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. I’m good! I had a great week making music with some incredible artists.

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

I am Hill. I’m a Canadian independent artist - and I make Experimental-Soul music.

Tell me about GIAR (Give It a Rest) and its writing. What inspired the song?

GIAR was written in a bit of a daze? I was just singing gibberish and it became a song on its own. I realized what I wanted to say very late into writing it. It’s a bit tongue-in-cheek, I guess. Lyrics are from the perspective of someone being suppressed by patriarchy.

Take that how you will…

It appears you were going through burnout during that time! Was it helpful writing and finding some perspective?

Yeah; sometimes space and creative time are really powerful for evolution and, when you’re making things for yourself, it is incredibly rewarding...it gives back.

Do you think, in a way, you were losing a sense of perspective and control?! Going to nightclubs and partying until 4 A.M. – was there a moment you felt like you needed to take a step back?

Yes. It can escalate quickly when your lifestyle is that unhealthy. I’m grateful that I had good people around me in the times when I was being an asshole.

They reminded me what matters.

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GIAR is from the E.P. of the same name. What can you reveal about the other songs/themes that will be addressed?

A few have already been released! Weak and On Camera are both already available online: the rest, you’ll have to wait for. There’s a lot of music I need to release over these next few years...

It’s built up...

I believe the material (for the E.P.) was recorded during the early hours. Was this the most productive time to record? What sort of technology and instruments did you use when recording?

Not really the best time to record when you live in an apartment building - but I don’t think anyone was living above me at the time; so I lucked out and didn’t get any noise complaints. I work in Protools and recorded using native instruments, and my Oberheim synth, for GIAR. Other music, I’ve made with my pals Giordan Postorino, Morgan Gold and Fred Brenton - and a lot of my stuff I made with Mike Schlosser in Toronto.

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How much inspiration do you take from day-to-day life? Do beats and rhythms come to you when you least expect?

Beats and rhythms happen in the studio: lyrics and melodies often happen when I’m driving, which is annoying. Ha! But; I’ve learned to write on the spot by now, so I can produce whenever I need to.

I don’t need to wait for inspiration (unless I’m exhausted…).

You are based in Canada. What is the scene like where you are? Do you think Canada is producing some of the best artists around?!

Canada is the fuck*ng best. I love my hometown of Edmonton - it is stacked with talent.

Which artists did you grow up to? Did you bond with music fairly young?

Yes, very young - but I grew up on (only) radio and Disney music until I moved away for college.

Then, the world opened up to me…

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IN THIS PHOTO: 6LACK/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

What I’m listening to right now is 6LACK; Billie Eilish and Blastfamous USA.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Billie Eilish/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

James Blake – James Blake

Frank Ocean - Channel Orange

BANKS - Goddess

Because I love them in their entirety - and they changed the way I digest music.

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

You can catch me at SXSW this March.

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Will you come to the U.K. soon? Have you performed here before?

I haven’t, but as soon as I’m able...I’ll be there.

Any New Year’s resolutions made this year? What do you hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

In 2018; I’m going to learn to code; play more guitar and travel to Asia for the first time.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

N.E.R.D. (ft. Rihanna) – Lemon

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INTERVIEW: Pale Grey

INTERVIEW:

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 ALL BAND PHOTOS: Bettina Gente

Pale Grey

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MY blog is getting rather international…

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as, today, I talk to a Belgian band! They are not any old Belgian band: I have been getting to know the guys of Pale Grey. They talk about their new single, Late Night, and working (on it) with Serengeti. I ask them about the music scene in Belgium; what we can expect from the forthcoming album, Waves; the music/artists they are inspired by; what tour dates are coming up – and how they managed to make such a big change since previous single Billy.

I ask them about new acts to recommend; whether music was a bit part of their upbringing; how they all got together; whether the band have formulated any resolutions; how they enjoy any downtime – any advice they would give to new artists.

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

Hi, we’re fine. We had a busy week and are really excited to play Eurosonic Noordeslag festival in Groningen.

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

We are a Belgian band and we are doing a kind of Indie-Hop-Pop music thing; mixing Rock, Folk; Hip-Hop and Electronic stuff together.

Tell me about the song, Late Night. What is the tale behind that song?

We wrote a song for an artist we really love (Serengeti). We’re in contact with his mgmt. and we had the opportunity to propose the song. He was really into and he sent us his part.

We wrote a chorus after that and the song was finished.

It features Serengeti. What was it like working with him?

It was like a dream becoming true...

There are big differences between the song and your previous track, Billy. It seems like you keep fresh and mobile! Do you think it is important to remain nimble and changeable?

We don’t like to limit ourselves.

We like to have the opportunity to do what we want...and that’s the reason. We’re also really into a lot of different music - it’s the reason we like to do different stuff as well.

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Waves, your forthcoming album, is out on 2nd March. What kind of stories/subjects are addressed on the album?

We like to write stories about what we hear around us. Our lives are quite easy but, around us, we have some people who are really ‘daily’ heroes: you know; people who suffer but find solutions.

So incredible. 

Tell me how Pale Grey got together. Did you guys all know one another from way back?

At the beginning, we were only two (Gilles and Max). We were not in the same school but our road crossed every morning. We were staring at each other with some questions like: “Who is this guy with band T-shirts?” Then, one day, we spoke together and we found out that we’re listening to the same kind of bands. We started the band and then the two others joined us after that.

You are based in Belgium. Are there quite a lot of new artists playing in the country? Which areas are producing the best work would you say?

Yes. Belgium is a small country but there is really a lot of bands. We are based in Liège - and there are a lot of good bands there.

We are used to playing with them at lots of good festivals.

Tell me about the music you each grew up on. Which artists have played the biggest role?

Since we were teenagers; we always have been into Indie-Rock music: bands like Radiohead, The Notwist; Why and Explosions in the Sky had a lot of influence on us.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Declan McKenna/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Declan McKenna and Hector Gachan.

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

Neon Golden – The Notwist

Elephant Eyelash - Why?

The Wilderness  by Explosions in the Sky

Hail to the Thief by Radiohead

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

Follow your dreams and your taste - and don’t try to sound like someone else: find your own way.

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

We’re about to start a European tour.

Find us here:

18/01/2018: Eurosonic Noordeslag  - Groningen - NL

05/02: TUL - Louvain-La-Neuve - BE

01/03: La Parenthèse - Nyon - CH

02/03: Treppenhaus - Rorschach - CH

03/03/18: Ebullition - Bull - CH

04/03/18: Cafe Bar Mokka - Thun - CH

14/03/18: Oasis - Le Mans - FR w/ Girls in Hawaii

15/03/18: El Mediator - Perpignan - FR w/ Girls in Hawaii

16/03/18: Atabal - Biarritz - FR w/ Girls in Hawaii

18/03/18: Rock System - Louvain-La-Neuve - BE

22/03/18: Die Kassette - Dusseldorf - DE

06/04/18: CC Engis - Engis - BE

07/04/18: Ik Zie U Graag - Mezz - Breda - NL

Do you each have any ambitions of resolutions for this year at all?

Playing as much as we can.

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Will you all get any downtime at all? How do you spend your time away from music?

Some of us have a real job (besides the band). We like seeing our friends, girlfriends; families...

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).

Hector Gachan – UNTITLED '91

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INTERVIEW: Chiara Berardelli

INTERVIEW:

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Chiara Berardelli

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SCOTLAND is back in my heart…

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.as I speak to Chiara Berardelli about her new music, desires for this year - and her upbringing in the Highlands. She talks about her time there and what life was like for an aspiring musician. Her forthcoming album, Seamonster, was recorded in Glasgow’s West End – Berardelli tells me about her experience there and the themes that go into the album. I ask her about the new single, Deep Sea Hibernation, and whether there is a story behind it.

She talks about her influences and favourite albums; how she came into music; whether she feels she’s developed since her debut in 2010 (Don’t Be So lovely); if we can see her tour anytime soon; advice she would give to new artists – and how her personal struggle with involuntary childlessness has impacted her forthcoming album.

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

Hi, there. Good thanks...though, I’m a bit upside-down. I just came back from New Zealand - and I’m sleeping all day and awake all night!

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

My name is Chiara Berardelli and I’m a singer-songwriter. I write mainly on piano - but also guitar when I need a change. I tend to write about life and how it affects me. My songs are pretty personal, I guess: although, sometimes, a book, play or a conversation can inspire me.

Deep Sea Hibernation is your latest single. Can you tell me about the song and the story behind it?

I was listening to the news on the radio the day they woke up the Rosetta probe - which had been asleep for two years as part of its space mission to land on a comet. The newsreader referred to this as "deep space hibernation" - which I thought was an amazing phrase.

At the time, I was feeling very low and the idea of hibernating for two years - until the storm blew over - seemed very attractive…so the story struck a chord with me.

I know regrets about motherhood are at the heart. Was it cathartic exploring something upsetting and deeply personal in that song?

I find writing a song about a personal issue is always cathartic. It’s a way of externalising feelings and thoughts and, finding a way of putting them into words and to music, somehow, makes them one step removed from deep inside.

I hope that makes sense!

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The album, Seamonster, arrives in March. There are nautical suggestions. Were you inspired by the sea and the underwater?

Seamonster is more of a metaphor, really.

I always wanted to have children and, when it didn’t seem to be happening for me; I think I coped by stuffing down the feelings and being in denial. Then, at some point, the sadness about it all seemed to come from nowhere (like a sea monster) - rising from the deep and turning my life upside down.

I believe the album charts some up and downs. Was it hard being so honest and revealing on the album? Do you feel you learned anything about yourself during recording?

I don’t find it hard, to be honest. In my songs, although, sometimes; it takes a while to find the right words to use. I think there’s (probably) only one song on the album, Sanctuary, which makes reference to what the album is about: the rest depict emotions that, I think, could be about many different situations.

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There is one song, Days, which I found very exposing the first few times I performed it live. It’s about loneliness: the days when, as a single person, all you notice is couples everywhere – and, when I first sang it in public, I felt sort of ashamed. I don’t anymore, though, and it’s becoming a wider-discussed issue…so that’s good.

It was recorded in Glasgow’s West End. What was it like during that time? Did the energy and unique persona of Glasgow affect the record in any way?

The studio I recorded in is part of an artists’ community in the West End of Glasgow. It felt very inspiring to make my way there every day. I worked with a fantastic producer, Johnny Smillie, and I loved every minute in the studio…well, almost every minute!

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You grew up in the Highlands. Which artists first struck your ear? Was there a local music scene when you first got interested in songwriting?

I was pretty isolated, musically, in the Highlands to be honest. We lived on a remote farm and music was pretty hard to come by. If there was a local music scene then I didn’t find it!

I mainly listened to the charts, then - but anyone who wrote songs and performed them on the piano, like Billy Joel and Elton John, was an inspiration to me.

Many journalists overlook Scottish music. Do you feel more of us should spend some time investigating the music Scotland is putting out?

In a word, ‘yes’! Glasgow is a good place to start...

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How do you feel your music has developed over the years? Do you feel you are a more confident and changed songwriter to the one who released 2010’s Don’t Be So Lovely?

Yes, I do.

I think I have more objectivity about my own songs - which is something that comes with time. Maybe, the biggest change, though, is in the studio. I’ve got more used to the process of taking the song I’ve written on one instrument and opening it out to involve other musicians - as well as the actual recording process (which is an art in itself).

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I confess I haven’t been listening to much new music recently as this album has sort of taken over the last two years! Before that, though, I was listening to a lot of Tiny Ruins: a trio from New Zealand. They’re not new - but were new to me - and I heard them first at Celtic Connections.

They make beautiful songs - and I love her voice.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Hollie Fullbrook (Tiny Ruins)/PHOTO CREDIT: Georgie Craw

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

Ooh; that’s hard…ok…

Lagoon Blues - The Bathers

I used to listen to it for hours when I moved to a remote Scottish Island - and was seriously wondering why. It got me through!

Dummy by Portishead

Something about the mood of the album: it’s like a wave washing over you. I never get sick of listening to it…

In Rainbows - Radiohead

There are always some new layers to discover when I listen to this. Again; never tire of it.

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

Believe in yourself. You have to start from there; don’t compare yourself to others: you are unique...

Develop your own songwriting and sound.

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What gigs do you have coming up as we head through 2018?

We’re playing at The Speakeasy, The Voodoo Rooms (in Edinburgh) on 25th March and The Glad Café in Glasgow on 30th March.

There’s going to be a U.K.-wide tour in the autumn.

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

How about Me at the Museum, You in the Wintergardens - Tiny Ruins

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INTERVIEW: Fernweher

INTERVIEW:

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 Fernweher

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I have interviewed a few artists from Italy…

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but none have the same ingredients and components as Fernweher. I have been speaking with him about his new track, Frozen Beauty. It has a stunning video – and one I was eager to know more about – and prefaces the E.P., The Son of the Black Ocean. I ask Fernweher about the E.P. and what we can expect from it; whether there are gigs coming up; how he feels being settled in the U.K. (he is in Belfast at the moment) – which new artists are worth exploring.

I find out which musicians/albums have been most important to Fernweher; why comparisons to James Blake are not exaggerations; advice he would give to new artists of the moment; whether he has any downtime away from music – and whether he made any resolutions this year.

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

Hello there! As you can imagine, this week, for me, is very exciting. My debut single has been released (on Friday) and, in five days, I've reached around twenty-thousand views on YouTube - and I am receiving many lovely messages from people that are enjoying my project.

This makes me feel very happy.

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

I am a twenty-three-year-old guy from Italy, living in the U.K., and am an aspiring music producer.

I started studying Classical and Jazz music in Italy when I was eleven - focusing on piano and singing lessons. Then, I developed a passion for songwriting and Electronic music. Nowadays; I’m studying Music Production because, in the future, I’d like to work as a composer for movies and T.V. In the last two years, I have been working on my first solo project called The Son of the Black Ocean - which is anticipated by the single Frozen Beauty.

This is going to be a conceptual E.P. containing five songs - which I self-produced. It is inspired by the work of my favourite artists: James Blake and Björk.

Frozen Beauty is your latest single. Can you tell me about the song’s origins?

I wrote the first-draft of this song in my hometown of Bari (in Southern Italy). International artists don’t have real opportunities to grow - and I felt stuck in a paralysing mud where each day was exactly the same as the one before. I was surrounded by people who were forced to (pretend to) be happy…but, I have never managed to integrate myself into this ‘fiction’.

Frozen Beauty is my melancholic chant: like the howl of a wolf who feels lonely and afraid of the future.

The video is very striking and dramatic! Was it fun filming it? Who came up with the storyline?

First of all; thank you so much! I’m really sensitive about it because, for me, it’s not just about the song but the whole project itself...

It took three days to shoot the video and it has been a very fun and constructive experience. The video was shot in two of the most beautiful places in Apulia (Cisternino and the Salento coast) - which was elected most beautiful region in the world by National Geographic. I wrote the storyline myself together with the song - because it’s a visual project and, in the video for the second single, the Frozen Beauty story will continue.

In the video, I tell the story of two lovers – metaphorically, ‘The Ocean and his Shore’ - who run to each other to meet. (‘His’ instead of ‘its’ to represent the personification.). Their race represents the path of our lives hindered by demons. Each of these fantastic creatures embodies future fears, failures; different directions, changes (the growing waves) and even death itself.

It is not our daily race that scares us but what will happen next: “This is a new day how does it feel?” “Our love is immortal/we are frozen beauty in this world” is the hymn that the Ocean is singing to his Lover - referring to a love which is locked-frozen in time and consequently immortal. When they finally meet, filled with hope pictured by the lantern’s light; the demons are half-way-ready to take their lives. The multiple finales refer to the possibility of choosing different directions in life: will they meet or will they let their choices possess them?

It’s up to you to decide (until the next video will be released).

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The E.P., The Son of the Black Ocean, is out later this year. What kind of themes do you explore on that E.P.?

It’s an E.P. containing five songs and they are all connected by the same themes: the connection between the self and the universe; the importance of water.

Each one of us, from birth, establishes a physical and spiritual connection with all that surrounds him - and the answers can be found only in this personal connection with the great black ocean: the universe. However; the universe is too complex and mysterious to be understood.

(The flow of things is hidden from our gaze).

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Water, on the other hand, shows us that nothing is stable: that time and the evolution of events always win; so we must prepare ourselves for an endless transformation. It is exactly here that ‘The Son of the Black Ocean’ is born. He surrenders himself, passively, in the black water-uterus. The currents will carry him away deciding his path. Dipped in water for a long time, he ends up losing weight; leaving a part of his energy to the ocean. He was trying to learn how to perceive energy (for how) it flows directly into the universe; aspiring to reach a level of pure energy in an empty place without the influences of the world - a personal spot where he was able to focus only on sensitivity and reality.

Cultivating this sensibility was his mission.

Will there be any more singles between now and the E.P.’s release? What do you have planned?

The answer is ‘yes’ - but I don’t want to anticipate anything honestly. It’s a story and it needs to be followed to be understood...

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Your work involves building layer after layer with instruments – before you remove everything to the bone. What was the reason behind taking this approach?

To start; I’d like to point out that I’m working a lot on sounds and (on how) to recreate dark atmosphere. I was told that the intro is too long and that the vibe is a little too slow and atmospheric - or that the voice processing detracts from the richness of the voice. The thing is that my goal was to recreate a minimal and ethereal dimension to focus on simple feelings - and give to the listener the chance to paint his own image. The main melody is not more important than the background voices.

Each sound has its function; just like the British artist James Blake did with Dubstep: with stronger sounds, major changes and an ABAB scheme For me; it would have been just another Electropop song (and this is not the case).

You hail from Italy – but you are based in London now. What was the reason for coming here? What are the main differences between Italy and London?

To be honest, I've always preferred to write songs in English - since all the music I listen to comes from the U.K. or U.S.A. I moved here to follow all the incredible artists that are realising new music in the U.K. - and creating new trends and to study music production. At this very moment, I’m based in Belfast.

I’ll be back in the U.K. very soon.

I hear shades of James Blake in your work. Which other modern artists are you inspired by? What music did you listen to growing up?

I’m so honoured hearing that. Really!

James Blake and Björk are my biggest inspiration but Bon Iver, Sigur Rós; Radiohead and FKA twigs are also among my favourite artists.

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IN THIS PHOTO: River Tiber

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

In the last two years; I discovered River Tiber, SOHN; Sampha, Moses Sumney and Active Child - which I really recommend checking out.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Sampha

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

I like to create lists of my favourite albums every once in a while…and I know exactly which are the most important ones for me:

The Colour in Anything - James Blake; Homogenic – Bjork; 22, A Million - Bon Iver

I don’t like to explain why; because these kinds of things are personal - but I can say that each song in The Colour in Anything is perfect. Everything is connected and it’s not just Electronic music - but a reinvention of the Soul genre itself. Moreover; its poetic writing leaves me confused and fascinated every time I listen to it.

As for Homogenic; this album is a masterpiece and it’s the perfect combination of Classic and Electronic music. The main theme is the wish to rush headlong into a life lived to the fullest; an unbridled yearning for the sublime (“State of emergency/is where I want to be” she sings on Joga).

22, A Million, instead, reflects, exactly, the alienation of our time - and it is a great reinterpretation of Folk music in this contemporary era.

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

My only advice is: don’t follow any trend or record-label-rules. Music is magic and you should make it your own.

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

For the moment; only the first single has been released - and I’m not playing anywhere until the whole project is born.

Do you have any ambitions of resolutions for this year at all?

My goal for this year is to introduce The Son of the Black Ocean and the story behind it to as many people as possible…especially here in the U.K. My ambition, instead, is to have one song of mine placed in a movie or a T.V. show.

That would be a dream.

Will you get any downtime at all? How do you spend your time away from music?

I’m not even thinking about this…

Now that Frozen Beauty is out; I’m only thinking of doing my best to create something beautiful.  When I’m not producing any music, it’s because I’m travelling, studying or working to finance my music projects.

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

I Need a Forest Fire - James Blake (ft. Bon Iver)

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Follow Ferweher

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INTERVIEW: Albert Man

INTERVIEW:

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 Albert Man

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A fresh year wouldn’t mean much if I failed to catch up with…

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Albert Man and ask him about his latest musical happenings! I speak with the songwriter about his single, Say Something Loving, and whether this means more music is afoot. He discusses his 2017 and what it was like working at Sticky Studios; what we can expect from the Say Something Loving launch-night; some new artists he fancies – and records/artists who have inspired him.

I ask about whether he has advice for new artists and, looking at his own music, how he has improved; what he thinks of the modern mainstream – which artists were coming to his ears at a young age…

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

I’m a Northern singer-songwriter living in London - playing and writing Pop songs on keys; performing both solo and with a band in London (and further afield). I created a new music festival called Music Makers Festival (www.musicmakersfestival.com) last year with my manager and wife (Manoja) to showcase musicians we wanted to help promote.

Say Something Loving is your upcoming single (out on 2nd February). Its title puts me in mind of a song from The xx. I am guessing the background to this song is different! What is the story behind your track?

I came up with the idea for the song or the first few lyrics while I was travelling on the Tube. The idea came from just seeing the way some couples spoke to each other. I think everyone needs something loving said to them every so often. It’s about not forgetting to do just that no matter how long you’ve been in your relationship.

I think, sometimes, people forget that especially in the hustle and bustle of their everyday lives and, hopefully, listening to this song will encourage people to be nicer to the ones they love (smiles).

What was it like working with Adam Coltman at Sticky Studios?

I really enjoyed working with Adam at Sticky Studios. We got on well and had similar personalities; not to mention we look pretty similar too (smiles) A great-sounding track just came together really quickly. Adam was just on it; he knew exactly what I was after and we worked really well together in the studio. Sticky Studios is very well-known for some incredible artists that have recorded there such as Ed Sheeran, Shawn Mendes; One Direction, Christina Perri; Paloma Faith and Wiley - and it’s where Ed Sheeran recorded all of his early work.

The official launch, on 7th February, takes place at 1901 Arts Club. Is that somewhere you have played before? How are you feeling about that date?

I have never played there before - but Manoja always finds special places for the events we run together. We wanted to find something intimate for this single launch and, when we saw this really beautiful old Victorian house, we knew it was the right venue for this event. There’s a grand piano, too, which is always a special treat for me (smiles).

I can’t wait to play it on the night - and I think all my wonderful artists supporting me on the night will be playing a few songs on it too. The venue is a short walk from Waterloo Station – so it’s easy to get to. I think everyone is going to love the venue!

You can still get tickets for the event at www.albertman.com/tickets.

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What can we expect if we come along? Can we expect some exciting support acts?

Definitely, I have to mention the grand-piano again (smiles) which you don’t get at most gigs (and I’ll be playing with a full band). I also have two brilliant support acts: Hattie Briggs (Fender Undiscovered Artist 2017) and Saarloos from Dublin; a new collaboration between Brian McGovern and Craig Gallagher (both of whom have supported Gavin James on tour). I am excited about this event - as I think it’ll be a special one with this combination of the beautiful venue and amazing musicians joining me on the night.

Will there be more material arriving? Is there anything in the pipeline?

Glad you asked! I have loads of new stuff...

It’s just a case of getting the funds and time to get back in the studio. Also, I like working with different people and in different studios; so still looking for the next producer and studio to work with.

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How would you say you have grown as a musician in the past year? Do you feel like 2017 was an important year for you?

2017 was a very important year for me. Manoja and I try to keep goals every year - so we have a good idea on what we are trying to achieve. I released an E.P. and live-album. My E.P. launch-night at St. Pancras Old Church was sold out. I played twelve festivals over the summer including The Great Escape, Camden Rocks; Liverpool Sound City, Reverb Festival; Tramlines and Standon Calling. Also; I organised my own music festival with Manoja called Music Makers Festival (www.musicmakersfestival.com).

I think, as a musician and songwriter, I keep evolving and I think I am a better songwriter now than when I started. I learn a lot from my previous songs - and the new ones feel a bit more grown-up than some of the earlier ones. I wrote loads of new songs at the end of 2017. I’m so excited to get them recorded.

Tell me about the musicians and sounds that you were inspired by as a youngster. Which artists compelled you as a child?

I always loved David Bowie, Elvis Presley and The Doors. I also was a big fan of Talking Heads, Joy Division; The Staple Singers and Huey Lewis.

I think they all influenced me a lot as I was growing up.

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What do you think of the modern scene? Do you think the mainstream is as strong as in past years?

I think, maybe, we have too much choice and music is too accessible making for more-fickle listeners. It’s great to see some really talented artist like Rag'n'Bone Man in the mainstream, though - so there’s always brilliant new artists out there.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Million Miles

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Million Miles: https://www.facebook.com/milmilesmusic

Howard Rose: https://www.facebook.com/howardrosemusic

Billy Lockett: https://www.facebook.com/billylockettmusic

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IN THIS PHOTO: Billy Lockett

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

Nevermind by Nirvana

Because Smells Like Teen Spirit was a song that really struck a chord with me when I was a kid.

David Bowie’s Hunky Dory

For being such a mind-blowingly brilliant album with lots of piano in it.

Pulp’s Different Class

Because Jarvis Cocker’s a lyrical genius.

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

Don’t rely on anyone else to do anything for you: learn how to record your own demos and make your own website, videos and posters etc. It is very much D.I.Y. when you’re an independent musician - and it is fun learning all these new skills to represent your work the best you can!

What other tour dates do you have coming up? Where can we see you play later in the year?

I’ll be booking lots of shows after my launch on 7th Feb to help promote the single - still waiting for confirmation on some of these. The next gig after the launch is a house gig at The Drawingroom (in Chesham) on 10th March.

You can keep track of my upcoming gigs at www.facebook.com/albertmanmusic/events or www.albertman.com/gigs.

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Do you have any ambitions of resolutions for this year at all?

I would like to get one of my tracks played on a T.V. show or movie this year and organise a tour outside the U.K.

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).

Let’s have a bit of Talking Heads and Burning Down the House (smiles).

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 Follow Albert Man

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Official:

http://www.albertman.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/albertmanmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/albertmanmusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/albertmanmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/albertmanmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3EmYYAAyNTytyQvyhkE75o

YouTube:

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

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 PHOTO CREDITS:

Top photos of Albert Man were taken by Arnab Ghosal (http://www.arnabkghosal.com/)

The photo of Albert in a red T-shirt was taken by Nick Kent (http://www.nickkentphotography.com/)

The final. black-and-white photo is courtesy of Manoja Ullmann

INTERVIEW: Will Varley

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Walker 

Will Varley

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TODAY is a day, in terms of interviews, defined by some…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Walker 

‘older’ submissions. My second interviewee of the day completed his answers when his last single, All Those Stars, was released/being promoted. Will Varley has a new song out: Seven Days shows he is on a roll and will provide a stunning album. I talk to him about that album (Spirit of Minnie) and the inspiration behind All Those Stars. Varley discusses his musical background and artists he is inspired by; what he has planned for this year – and the advice he would offer to new artists coming through.

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

Pretty good. I’ve mainly been learning to drive. Got my test tomorrow.

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

My name is Will Varley and I write stupid little songs and watch daytime T.V.

All Those Stars is out. Can you reveal the inspiration behind that track?

You know when you hear, on the news, that they've found a new planet and they say it's sort of like Earth…and you get a bit excited? Then, they tell you it's forty-three-million light-years away and your heart sinks. That song is about touring, working; trying to find your way and thinking, in the great scheme of the universe, that those stars aren't really that far away at all.

Spirit of Minnie is your new album. What is the story behind the title? What sort of themes and stories inspired the record?

I met a taxi driver in Minneapolis one night in winter - it was the coldest place I'd ever been. The air felt like ice when you took your hands out of your pockets. The album is named after a song on the record - and the song is the story that taxi driver told me.

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The L.P. is out on 9th February. Will there be any more singles/videos realised ahead of the release?

Yes. There will be another couple of tracks released before then.

The album is produced alongside Cameron McVey. What was it like working with someone who has been in the same studio as Massive Attack and Neneh Cherry? How important was his input regarding the album’s sounds and sensation?

It was very cool.

He's got an amazing way of working - which was fascinating to be a part of. He's been crucial to the sound of the new album and I'd love to work with him again.

On 9th February, the day the album is released, you play Shepherd’s Bush Empire. How excited are you about that?

It's the biggest show I've ever played as a headline.

For me, that show is a huge marker to work towards: a moment to take stock, see how far things have come and, possibly, how far things can go. I used to walk past the Empire on my way to open mic nights in Shepherds Bush back in the old days.

It's genuinely unfathomable to me that I'm headlining there in a couple of months.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Walker 

2016’s Kingsdown Sundown gained acclaim and applause. How do you think Spirit of Minnie differs? Are you still exploring new territory and sounds five albums in?

I hope so. I think it's important to keep moving. If you stagnate too much you start to chase your own tail - and it felt really important to me to have a vague sense of fear going into this new album.

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How did you get into music? Was it something you were fascinated by at a young age?

Everyone is fascinated with music...

Some good friends of mine had a baby recently and it's incredible how the baby responds to music and not much else. I suppose though, in terms of my own music, it was my dad playing records in the car when we were kids that introduced me to songwriting.

Which musicians struck a particular chord with you?

Neil Young, Bob Dylan; John Otway, Tracy Chapman and Billy Bragg...I could go on! These were the records my dad was playing in the car - and these were the records that got me hooked on writing songs.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Seán McGowan

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I'd recommend checking out both the supports on the tour: Seán McGowan and Ida Mae. They're both excellent.

Other than that: Cocos Lovers, Low Chimes; Xylaroo, Gecko and Molly's Lips…

(There's too many to list...).

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IN THIS PHOTO: Xylaroo

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

Blood on the Tracks by Bob Dylan, Elephant Lands by Cocos Lovers and Nebraska by Bruce Springsteen. (That would probably be a different list if you ask again tomorrow). I couldn't tell you why. We'd be here for hours.

The question 'why' and music are not the best of friends.

Aside from February’s gig at Shepherd’s Bush Empire; can we see you perform anywhere soon? 

Yes! I'm touring in the U.K., U.S.A. and Europe up until spring, and then, I'll hopefully be at lots of festivals next year, too.

All dates are listed at willvarley.com.

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

Get a good guitar-case. It'll keep your clothes dry and, if worst comes to the worst, it will double-up as a sleeping bag...

Also; don't worry if the darkness comes: it's exactly what you were looking for...

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).

The Final Tug in Your Unravelling by The Hellfire Orchestra

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Follow Will Varley

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INTERVIEW: Corinna Jane

INTERVIEW:

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 Corinna Jane

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SHE has been a little under the weather this month…

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so this interview, let’s hope, has cheered her right up! I have been speaking with the marvellous Corinna Jane about her past music and whether new material is due. She tells me about her highlight from 2017; how she saw in the New Year – and which new artist we should keep an eye out for.

I ask about her background – she was born in Germany and spent time in France – and whether she had an eclectic musical upbringing. Corinna Jane speaks about her favourite albums and what she has planned; whether we can see her tour soon – and why a gig at St. Pancras Old Church ranks as a career highlight.

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Hi, Corinna Jane. How are you? How has your week been?

I had lots of good intentions to get started for the New Year – but, alas, the January bugs have got me! Sadly, I am on my second bug of the year - but the downtime has been good to plot the way for the coming year...

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

My name is Corinna Jane and I'm a quirky, piano-driven; Pop-Rock singer-songwriter who tries to unravel life's complicated emotions in a, hopefully, entertaining way.

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Last year was busy and eventful one for you. How does it feel looking back at the past few months? What are the fondest memories?

Last year definitely featured some wonderful milestones...

The most notable one for me was appearing on London Live TV's prime-time evening show (being interviewed live on television). It was a dream come true: I had visualised a moment like that for a while and it was surreal to get to do it.

Hopefully, the first of a few!

I guess performing at St. Pancras Old Church must rank high?! What was that show like?

I have done hundreds of gigs but, by far, that’s one of my favourite venues I've played. You can't beat the feeling of playing in a historical, spiritual building that is hundreds of years old surrounded by beautiful stained-glass windows. The atmosphere was unlike any other gig I've played; there was a lot of warmth and the feeling of people coming together to really get lost in music...

‘Going to church’ took on a new meaning!

Can we expect any new material in the coming weeks? Will there be an E.P./single coming shortly?

I have unreleased material that I intend to release this year; however, I have also been working on an exciting Cinematic-Pop collaboration with someone - which we are just putting the finishing touches to and will be releasing shortly. You'll be hearing from ‘Animatiq’ very soon. Think of it as a modern, dark; emotional (slightly Bond-esque) kind of cinematic experience!

You were born in Germany and spent time in France – most of your life has been in England. Has that moving about been quite uprooting or has it been important and inspiring spending time in each country?

That is a very good question - and probably not one I've given a lot of thought to (which is unlike me as I am a master over-thinker)! I think my pride in having spent my childhood in Germany - and having a French mother and British father - has completely shaped my identity. I don't ever feel purely from one country or nation. I think connecting with different nationalities and speaking three languages has meant that I am able to easily relate to different people and way of thinking. I'm not saying I'm a chameleon but I think that my upbringing (and my creativity) means that I can get along with a range of people from all walks of life.

I think having all these influences of different European cultures has made me feel quite free-spirited in the sense that I don't like to follow crowds: I dance to my own beat.

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How important are the French and German languages/dialects when it comes to music? Is language an important part of what you do?

Many people have asked me over the years - why I don't sing a song in French or German?! It's not that I'm not open to doing so: it's mainly because my thinking-language has been in English, which is where I can draw my poetic thoughts from. The trouble is that Pop music is so internationalised nowadays, which means that even in Germany (less so in France) English is often used as the language in lyrics.

Having said that; I recently wrote a song which, musically, definitely felt more French and, therefore, I will see if I can attempt to write a French lyric version - it's actually more fascinating to me how a melody can feel ‘French’ before you have even put pen to paper!

How early did music come into your life? Were stations like MTV quite instrumental?

Music came into my life right from the beginning…

My earliest memory of playing music is when I was a toddler figuring out how to play Richard Marx's Right Here Waiting on piano - which my father would always play. It was his playing, and introducing me to MTV, which initiated my life-long obsession with Pop music.

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Who were the artists you looked up to when you were growing up?

I remember being very little and seeing this really cool woman on MTV playing the guitar; looking sassy and playing this song called All I Wanna Do. It was that moment on that I realised I wanted to be like Sheryl Crow and write songs - looking like a star - on the T.V.!

Your music has been taken to heart by stations and publications in this country. Is it encouraging when you get such good feedback from people?

Yes. It completely validates the reason why I do this!

Whenever I hear stories from people who have taken a song to heart and made it about their own experiences - this is when I know that what I'm doing has some value. I grew up listening to artists who felt like my friends as they sang about emotions I could relate to - who became the soundtracks to my life at varying stages. If I can do this for other people, then my life's mission will feel complete. When BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Introducing (nationally) played my tracks; I felt like everything suddenly made sense.

This is why I worked so hard towards this.

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2018 is here. What are your ambitions and dreams for this year?

As I've mentioned already: I'm excited to be launching the new side project, Animaitq. I'm very intrigued to see where this can go as it's still me, but it's an even more dramatic side - that's the beauty of collaborations. I'm working with a very talented film and commercial composer, Stephen Frost, and we believe there's some magic in what we're making. I think one of my dreams would be for a song to make it on to a movie or a T.V. show as a soundtrack - or even a theme-tune!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Isaac Gracie

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

I'm a fan of Isaac Gracie – I love his E.P. He really knows how to write a beautiful, melancholic and heartfelt tune.

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

This is pretty open at the moment as I'm just planning for this year. However; I'll be supporting the awesome Fred's House at the Ent.Shed (Bedford) on 6th April.

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

The Killers - Hot Fuss

It just screams out my teenage years. It takes me back to all the little tweenie dramas; the school bus to school, the romances; the house-parties. An exciting time but, seriously - there is no band that sounds like the Killers. Their sound and lyrics are utterly unique.

Marina and the Diamonds - The Family Jewels

She's such a unique Popstar but, sadly, a little underrated. She has a very distinctive voice and has such a wild imagination when it comes to her whimsical, yet highly melodic, music. Her lyrics don't just touch on the usual topics such as love: she goes deep-down and pokes fun at some of her dark sides and her quest for recognition. I found it very relatable - and she sounds like no one else.

Avril Lavigne - Let Go

I was in two minds about citing this but the reality is that, when I was a little girl, EVERYONE had a copy of this album. The songs were melody-driven, fun and feisty. She was this antithesis to all the more polished Popstars. She definitely inspired me growing up to want to write Pop-Rock anthems - and be a real show-off on stage. She certainly defined and era. I must confess that I also had people telling me for years that I looked like her twin. Ha!

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

It's a tricky time to navigate yourself as an artist because the old paradigm has changed: the gift and the curse is the Internet. On the one hand; you have all the means to promote yourself and cleverly play the game independently. On the other hand; you have to compete with a lot of other people screaming for the same attention. However; the silver lining is that it's not all about the major label anymore.

Try not to fit your sound into a particular mould in order to fit current trends - do what feels right to you and you WILL find your audience!

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

I do love a bit of Country - and one of my favourites is Kacey Musgraves! I love this song, Die Fun.

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 Follow Corinna Jane

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INTERVIEW: Nath Bravo

INTERVIEW:

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Nath Bravo

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IT has been a while since I have featured any artists with…

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Mexican heritage. Nath Bravo is, perhaps, the second musician to hail from that nation (I have featured). She talks to me about her time in London and whether residency is a long-term possibility; if her hometown has/had a great music scene; which new artists are striking her heart – and whether we can see her tour over here.

She discusses her current single, Shadowman, and whether more material is due; what her fondest memories in music are; the three albums that mean the most to her – some useful advice for artists coming through at the moment.

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

Hey! I’m fine, thanks. It’s been all good.

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

Well. My name is Nath Bravo. I’m twenty-one-year-old and I make music. I’m originally from Mexico but I just moved to London a couple of months ago to promote and perform my music - which is basically the result of a bunch of influences I’ve got; from genres such as Jazz, Blues; Rock and Alternative.

Talk to me about Shadowman (released last November). What is the inspiration behind the song?

Well. For this song; I did have a particular subject in my mind to be portrayed: fear. It was mainly based on the way I was feeling while going through some scary times in my life - in which I just couldn't find a scape. I kind of just faced it the only way I knew: making music. It’s a tribute, I think, because I know we’ve all gone through that specific state of feeling trapped in some sort of mindset. I brought fear to life as a character I named ‘Shadowman’ - and I’m just trying to describe the way I see/feel/experience fear most of the times.

Will there be any new material coming this year?

Hopefully, yes. I do have new songs and I’m constantly writing. So; if everything works out the way I’d like to…yes, that’d be fantastic.

You were born in a small town in Mexico. What was it like growing up there? Was there any sense of a music scene at all?

It was quiet. I didn’t have many friends as a kid. I think I was a bit scared of people…

But; I do have a really loving family, so we’d spend all of our holidays together - sometimes at home, traveling somewhere or just hanging out with all of my cousins and relatives. There wasn’t a lot to do - but enough for me to collect many beautiful memories that still make me happy. My parents are photographers so I’ve always been related to art. My mom also loved singing when she was a young woman - but I think I got into music by myself. There isn’t a lot of a ‘music scene’ in my city: only small contests I always joined (and choirs etc.)…but not a lot.

Mexico has so much to offer and a lot of beautiful music - but finding the right places for you as an artist is sometimes hard if you live in a small town.

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Do you spend a lot of time in Mexico? What is the music culture like in the country?

Yes. That’s where my home is; the place I always go to after traveling. The music culture is really different. I think there are many great artists in my country, and our ‘classics’ have turned into some sort of anthem for us. It’s diverse, rich; colorful, interesting. I love boleros and mariachi whenever I listen to them…I just go back in time.

There’s also Rock, Pop; Jazz and more international things as well - it’s diverse if you know how to find it.

It seems like music came into your life early. What made you take up performance and songwriting? Which artists inspired you to write your own material?

As soon as my parents realized I could sing; they’d always encourage me to do it - so I just started loving it more than anything else. I took some piano lessons for a few years but then quit because that training wasn’t for me. When I was thirteen; I started to take my singing as a serious thing: I self-taught (myself) to play the piano and, eventually, started writing my own songs.

I have to say that one of the main reasons I started to write music was: Jazz. Nina Simone was the first approach I had to songwriting as something beyond my own singing. It was all about having that fire in your stomach that comes when you are completely lost in music. I just fell in love with it…the process; the beauty of free expression, freedom itself… it’s all pure magic.

She’s one of my biggest inspirations of all time.

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How have you found the audiences in London? What has it been like performing in the capital?

Wonderful. I’ve loved it.

This is my second time in the capital and I have to say that there’s something so great about audiences in London: they listen. They accept new ideas, sound and projects.

That’s amazing.

Do you think you’ll stay in the U.K.? Is it somewhere you feel connected to?

I wish I could: I’d love to stay. I’ve felt really connected to Camden, here in London. I just love its diversity, the vibe and how cool it feels to be around in a really vibrating, colorful place.

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IN THIS PHOTO: LP/PHOTO CREDIT: @kezianathe

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

LP (Lost on You (the live version) is a must); Charlotte Cardin; Moncrieff; Ibeyi; Tash Sultana (of course) – and, yeah; I might have more…

But I can only remember these at the moment.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Tash Sultana

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

Live at Wembley '86 – Queen

It’s Queen, that’s why. I mean; whenever I feel like I can’t handle music, problems or life in general; this album would just bring my broken-self into one piece again. It’s just the most amazing thing ever. Such an amazing live performance: so energetic, filled with the purest passion…I’m a huge fan. So, this is like liquid-gold for me.

Hozier - Hozier

This man is amazing. I (just) love the sound, his songs. I remember I’d listen to this album over and over again every day for a while. I was sometimes struggling with my own music; so this album helped me to remember that I always have to trust myself and my instinct as a musician. It means a lot; maybe because I listened to it at the right time.

Themes from Calmi Cuori Appassionati (soundtrack) – Enya

My parents are photographers so, when I was a kid, they used to go all around the country and the States to do workshops - and I used to go with then every time I could. They’d make these videos with all of their best photographs - and used Enya’s album as the soundtrack. So; it brings me to a really melancholic memory of my childhood.

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

Be patient, be true to yourself; work hard, don’t overthink - and enjoy the ride. There are more people going through the same thing as you - so don’t worry too much and don’t be scared to ask for advice/help.

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What other gigs do you have coming up as we head through 2018?

The closest date is on January 17th here in London. The night is called The Round and I’m gonna be talking about my songs, too. Gonna be cool.

More gigs will be announced on my social media, as well.

Looking back; what have been your fondest memories of your time in music?

I have many…

One of them is from two-and-a-half years ago. I was at this big event; it was a national competition for songwriters organized by the University where I was at that moment. I remember being surrounded by so many talented people all playing some great things with a full band - and I was so scared cause I was going to be performing a song I wrote all by myself with only my piano, so…

It was almost time for me to go on stage and I still remember I just took my earphones and went backstage to lie down on the floor. I played Why? (The King of Love Is Dead) by Nina Simone; because it was the only way I could stay calm. I literally didn't take the earphones off until I was seated in front of the piano - with all of those faces staring at me. I was stunned, in shock and I just started playing.

That night, I became the national winner (after being so scared and without even expecting something back from the whole thing). It was surreal, inspiring. I think it was since that day that I decided I wanted to do that for the rest of my life. I’ve met so many amazing people on this journey and have also faced music itself in so many different way…

I wish I could tell you all of them.

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Do you have any ambitions of resolutions for this year at all?

I always do but, first of all; I’m gonna keep on promoting my E.P. and, later on; I really want to work on the latest songs I’ve written. I’m gonna keep on working and playing and, hopefully, finding the right places and people to work with.

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).

Excuse Me - Nothing But Thieves...or Sirens – Fleurie

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INTERVIEW: OMYO

INTERVIEW:

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OMYO

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THEIR current single was released late last year…

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so I wanted to speak with the London duo OMYO about its story and background. Tom and William talk to me about their upcoming material - and whether we can catch them in the live setting. I was keen to know how OMYO came to be and whether there is any significance behind the name/acronym – and how the guys saw in the New Year.

They tell me about their influences and, on Wait for Your Love, the all-star production team they worked alongside; how it feels being a D.I.Y. act; working with Nicole Gregorczuk on their latest song (she will appear in the video); the new artists they recommend we check out – some advice for any new artists out there…

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

Hey; how you keeping?! It's been really busy, actually.

Went to Fashion Week this week - and been sorting out a plan for our tour and album release later in the year. 

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

The band is called OMYO. We've been together three years. We met randomly and New Year’s and made a drunken bet to write a song. Since then, we have played for BBC introducing; gigged in N.Y.C., Poland and Germany... 

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How was Christmas for each of you? Did you get to spend time with family?

Christmas was nice - yeah we just chilled, really. Been eager to get back in the studio and continue where we left off last year!

Excited to get back gigging and making music…

I believe there is quite an interesting behind the story of OMYO’s creation? Is there any name-link between you and Yo La Tengo’s OHM at all?!

Hahaha; unfortunately not..

The name stands for 'Our Music, Your Opinion'. We needed a band-name - and thought it worked well. 

Wait for Your Love is the new song. It is an instant corker! How did it come together and what inspired it?

Ahhh; thank you! Really appreciate it.

The song came from a small relationship that didn't work out - and had been a waste of a lot of time (as we were so busy). So; it was initially an instrumental way of expressing the frustration which we then both connected on and built the full song - as we’d both been through these situations and thought how it could be relatable for other people.

I believe there is an all-star team producing. Tell me about their role and how you came to work with them.

Yeah; we have an amazing team working around us! We work with so many amazing producers! They've worked with some of the biggest House and R&B names out A.t.M.!

We just met them through studio sessions and became friends. We are actually the main producers on this song - which was a big step for us - and we brought in other guys for influences. Then; the final mixing was done through Dean Barratt - who has worked with some amazing people - because we met in the coffee area of our studio and became good mates.

He now mixes all our music! 

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William. I believe the forthcoming, D.I.Y. video is your debut. Tell me about the concept and where it is being shot…

The video needed to be done short notice and on a very small budget; so, whilst not able to sleep, the idea suddenly came to mind to do it ourselves. I managed to reach Steve Glashier in Berlin - as we were out there for a show. He's an amazing director and he actually did all the filming; he was an amazing mentor - to help me learn the process - and I think the result really is great…

It’s a mix of taking small, loving moments and making them emphasised; to show how much they can mean - along with using colours to show how the emotions can be in a relationship. 

I believe Nicole Gregorczuk will appear (in the video). What was it like working with her?

Yeah; really good! She's such a professional. She adds an edge to the video. 

Are there plans for more material in 2018? How do you feel Wait for Your Love differs from previous tracks like Mysterious Girl?

Yeah; we have so many tracks finished - probably enough for two albums.

I think Mysterious Girl was more of a Club/Dance vibe: Wait for Your Love allows you to get lost in the story and picture the real emotion. 

You are independent and do not rely on labels and hype-machines. Is that preferably in terms of what you want to do? What is it like having stations like BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Radio 1 behind you?

Yeah; we love the freedom that comes with running our own label.

We have full power and overall control in terms of creativity - from styling to the videos we shoot. It's great - and it helps having the backing of radio (playing the music you're creating). It’s been a lot of learning: from online marketing to Photoshop branding; networking with fashion brands and pitching constantly around the world. 

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 PHOTO CREDIT: JP Cooper/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

We're a massive fan of JP Cooper, The Weeknd; Tom Walker and NF.

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  PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Walker/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

Tom: Born to Do It by Craig David

All of the songs are massive tunes. It is such a feel-good album - and this is the first album I ever bought.

Will: Bloom by Machine Gun Kelly

It is really special to me: it helped me through a very dark patch.

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

Tom: Just keep doing what you're doing! Believe in your work and hustle! People won't come and find you: you've gotta find them.

Will: Be stubborn. If you have something and it’s different and you truly believe in it…one day, people will also realise its potential. You have to believe it’s the best you can be and then go after that dream with all you have; don't take ‘no’ for an answer - and remember there’s so many different ways to get to a goal if, first time, you fail.

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

We're playing several dates over the next few months, starting with 13th January (date) at Notting Hill Arts Club. (All our dates are online at omyomusic.com). 

2018 is here. What do you have planned in terms of personal goals and ambitions? How did you both see in the New Year?

Our personal goals are very similar: trying to push for regular national air-play; to be the best artists and label-owners we can; to keep competing with the majors; to inspire other independent artists - and play as many gigs as possible.

We (just) saw in the New Year with our families (which was nice). 

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).

Craig David - What's Your Flava?

Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive 

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 Follow OMYO

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INTERVIEW: Hollie Haines

INTERVIEW:

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Hollie Haines

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THIS year has gotten off to a flyer in regards…

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the talent coming through. Hollie Haines has been performing for a while but it seems 2018 will be a very pivotal and successful one for her! I ask the London-based songwriter the E.P., The Walls I Built (released last May), and how she feels about it, looking back. She tells me more about a conceptual album she is releasing this year;  her attachment and bond with Cambridge and Leeds – and some new artists she is backing for success.

Haines discusses her tastes and the artists she grew up on; whether she has gigs coming up; how important London is in terms of her sound/direction; the plans she has worked out for this year – what advice she would give any new songwriter of the moment.

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Hi, Hollie. How are you? How has your week been? How was Christmas?

Hey! I’m great, thanks. This week has been so nice - getting back to work after a lovely Christmas. I’m heading to New York at the end of the week (which I can’t wait for).

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

I’m Hollie; a lyric-obsessed folkie with some Rock and Country influences. I can’t really pin it down to one genre - but I like to refer to it as music for people who like a cry to music. Emotional lyrics are my favourite thing to write...

I am very honest in my writing.

The five-track E.P., The Walls I Built, was released last May. What compelled its creation and how do you feel about it looking back?

The Walls I Built was about me releasing a collection of songs that were, at the time, the ones I was proudest of. The E.P. goes through a range of styles and I created the sounds and brought the songs to life with my band - which was a really special process to me. It felt like something I wanted to make to mark where I was at that point in my life and career (at twenty-one-years-old). I’m really proud of the E.P. and all the music on it and it definitely helped me find my footing in music and learn a lot more about the recording and releasing process.

But, looking forward; I want to create a more sonically-cohesive album with stronger themes and more input on the production from my side.

There have been a lot of positive comments and reviews of the E.P. Is it humbling seeing your music connect with people?

It’s great!

I overthink and worry a lot about my music and normally have to be subdued by my band; so it’s good to have that reiterated to me by outside people. It’s really touching to hear people say such lovely things about work I’ve put so much of myself into.

I know you are planning a seven-track concept album. Can you reveal the concept and the themes you explore?

A few months ago, I found myself at a tough point in my life. I had just graduated and was about to move to London and felt like I was going through a slight loss of self (and I needed to get re-inspired).

The idea of putting down my experiences of love and loss in an album-form really interested me - and I started to build the idea of creating the album that I would have loved to be able to turn to every time I had lost someone or something.

Was it quite a brave and hard decision recording a concept album – as they are usually quite challenging and not always well-received by the press?

This is the most excited and passionate I’ve ever felt about my music - and I’ve never wanted to work so hard at something! I know there are going to be challenges (I face) but I would rather feel excited and happy about my music and face the fears head-on - than create something I don’t have the same passion in...

I’m willing to take the risk!

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I remember the moment music came into my life. Do you remember the first song/artist that entered your life? Who were the musicians you grew up on?

My dad loves music and all types of music; so I grew up on what he was listening to: Richard Thompson, Kirsty MacColl and Foo Fighters have stuck with me from that. My brother also loved Country music; so I got into that pretty early, too - and loved Taylor Swift from her Country-era.

You are based in London but have spent time in Cambridge and Leeds. Why did you decide to come down to London?

I came to the end of my music degree in Leeds and felt like I needed a change. My brother lives in London so I decided to just take the plunge and move in with him (and see how it went). It’s the best choice I could have made. I absolutely love being in such a big city and I’ve met some great people since moving.

I still visit Leeds a lot for gigs and recording - so it feels like I’ve got the best of both.

How important are the people and the city regarding your work and sound?

When I first moved, I had hardly any friends in the city and knew no musicians - which I found really hard. Once I started playing gigs and going to events I met some new people - which helped me settle in and inspired me to work harder and create more.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Tamzene/PHOTO CREDIT: Tamzene

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

One of my favourite parts of going to Leeds College of Music was the amazing musicians I was surrounded by and watched grow. An amazing artist called Tamzene sung backing vocals on The Walls I Built. She writes such beautiful love songs.

My fellow folkie when I was in Leeds, Lauren Rycroft, is also a fantastic writer...such a great performer.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lauren Rycroft/PHOTO CREDIT: Pear & Bear Photography

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

Father John Misty – Pure Comedy

Marika Hackman – I’m Not Your Man

Both of these I listened to as I finished my degree and moved to London. It kept me creative and inspired when it felt quite difficult to be. They’re both fantastic musicians and incredibly clever lyricists.

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Taylor Swift – Speak Now

I’ve always loved Taylor Swift and am such a fan of her evolution into Pop music - but this album sticks with me. It has no co-writes on it. Each track paints such a vivid picture of the story it tells. I love it.

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

Work hard…but also take your time. Putting in the hours on something you're passionate about is really important.

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

I’m playing at The Finsbury on the 15th January. I’ll be announcing some more shows in London and Leeds very soon.

Your live sets see you quip and share stories with the audience. Is it freeing being that open? Is it important to make that connection with them?

I’m quite an open person really - and my lyrics are so honest, already. I don’t feel like it’s sharing much more than I already am by telling the stories behind the songs. But, also, it is an important part of music to me - knowing that the people listening can relate or connect with the songs.

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2018 is here. What do you have planned in terms of goals and ambitions? How did you see in the New Year?

I actually made a list of ten resolutions for 2018 (for the first time). Releasing the album this year is my biggest goal at the moment but I also want to collaborate as much as possible. I’m also planning to listen to an album I haven’t heard every week as well as take a trip to The Netherlands, alone, to do some writing.

I saw in the New Year with old friends from school. I wore a suit which I’ve been trying to be brave enough to do for ages…so it was a good start to the year!

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).

The Big Moon – Cupid            

I’ve been obsessed with this song since summer - and the line “Time to turn and run from romance/I’m backing out” is one of my favourite lyrics from 2017.

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Follow Hollie Haines

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INTERVIEW: Joshua KYEOT

INTERVIEW:

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 Joshua KYEOT

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THE stunning voice of Joshua KYEOT is the first thing…

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that strikes you when you hear the sublime music. Only One was released last October and gained huge applause. I ask him about his upcoming single, Playground Sweethearts, and the inspiration behind it; the musicians he was raised on; what comes next for him – and whether there are any tour dates coming this year.

The talented songwriter discusses the importance of South London (his base) and new artists to recommend; how he spent this Christmas; the way the stage and his music interconnect; the albums that mean the most to him – he provides some great advice for new musicians.

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

I’m well and I’m blessed.

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

My name is Joshua KYEOT and I'm a singer, songwriter and entertainer. I released my debut single, Only One, last October – although; I have been performing around London for a long time now.

How was your Christmas? Did you manage to spend time with family?

Christmas was great - and that is exactly what I did. I spent it with the family, lots of babies running around; cousins, screaming and food. I got very competitive playing Articulate with the fam – trash-talk and all the good stuff.

Playground Sweethearts is your upcoming single. Can you tell us about its story and the meaning behind the song?

It is about a boy who was once too shy to express his feeling to a girl he knew when he was much younger. He met her a bit later on life and has regrets and is tired of regretting - so he is doing something about that.

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Which musicians, would you say, have helped craft your sound? Who did you look up to growing up?

I've always loved the music of Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson as well as Sisqo! My music is rooted in certain things you may not directly even hear in my music. I grew up on Hiplife, Highlife; Africa and Ghanaian music. I also took inspiration from the music my sister was listening to: Garage, R&B; Dru Hill, SWV... 

Some Hip-Hop too, definitely.

So far in your career, you have supported Izzy Bizu. Was that a cool experience? What is she like to play with?

It was truly a great experience.

To be given the chance to support a terrific artist whose journey is still very close to its beginning...and see her do what she does on stage and simply learn from her - that entire experience was great. I loved it.

Reminds you, if you aren’t sure, that you are on the right path…

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South London is where you are based. How important is the area regarding your inspiration and music? Do you get inspired by the people around you?

I get inspired by the people around me; mainly because they are people with stories worth hearing about and learning...

Whether it’s the kids on their bikes being as mischievous as I was when I was their age; the dudes working over at the chippy - I am certainly inspired to learn from what I see in the people of South London.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Gareth Esson/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/Artist

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Gareth Esson, Shakka; MUNDU, YEBBA and Rukhsana Merrise.

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IN THIS PHOTO: YEBBA/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

What do you think of the modern music scene? Do you feel music is in a good place right now?

I feel music is always in a good place; simply because there will always be great musicians doing what they love. The issue is finding it. The music scene tends to be difficult to love as an artist because it is usually controlled by ‘the MAN’ - but the companies like AWAL, and artists like Stormzy and Chance the Rapper, leading the charge on the Indie front…

I can’t be too upset.

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

Tough question; but I‘ve got it…

Michael Jackson – Bad

The first artist I truly wanted to be like. The music video for Bad was simply the coolest thing I had ever seen (and might still be)!

Sisqó - Unleash the Dragon

The first singer that I really tried to sound like and mimic. I remember there was a day when I was really upset because I thought I could never be a singer - because I didn’t sound enough like Sisqó. I listened to it over and over again.

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Paramore – Riot

The first C.D. I bought all by myself with my own money with no one else chipping in. I wanted the guitars they had and to be able to scream and rock-out like Hayley Williams.

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

I would say work tirelessly and be willing to learn.

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

Few interesting things in the work: please follow me on all social media to keep in touch!

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How important is it getting your music out there? Is the stage somewhere you feel alive and ‘at home’?

The stage is a place I love and can’t get enough of - but, still, it puts me on edge; at least before I start. I don’t want to talk to too many people before the show: just focus on my performance and perfecting it. I am quite particular about how I want my music to sound - and arrangements and all that - and I take preparation very seriously.

Once I’m on stage, I’m flying.

2018 is here. What do you have planned in terms of goals and ambitions? How did you see in the New Year?

Certainly. I am looking forward to releasing new music; playing more gigs, learning more and building on the momentum from all the work done in 2017.

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).

Fantasy - Earth, Wind & Fire, please!

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 Follow Joshua KYEOT

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INTERVIEW: VAZUM

INTERVIEW:

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VAZUM

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THERE are not too many Detroit-based artists…

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that leap to mind! Perhaps, if one thinks back, that task would be less stressful – from Motown and Garag...there are choices and idols that leap to the brain. In 2018; one would struggle but, listening to the music of VAZUM; you can hear the sort of quality and imagination coming from the Michigan city. I have been speaking to Zach Pilska - who plays under the moniker of VAZUM. He talks about the hot-off-the-press E.P., VAZUM, and what themes compelled the songwriting; if there is a standout song – and the artists that have influenced the sound.

I ask about President Trump and whether he was an ‘inspiration;’; what the music scene is like in Detroit; whether we might see VAZUM play in the U.K.; how the music comes together; what plans there are for the remainder of 2018 – whether Detroit’s social and economic situation is improving at the moment.

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

I am doing well. Thanks for asking.

It’s extremely cold in Detroit - single-digit temperatures. Been staying inside working on demos. Winter seems to be a good time to do that...

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

I am a drummer and play in a handful of Detroit-based bands. I’ve been writing music for a while - but it wasn’t until recently when it clicked. A recent break-up inspired me to follow my vision. I recorded an E.P., put a band together and started playing shows as the singer/guitarist.

How was your Christmas? Did you manage to spend time with family?

Yes. I spent time with my parents and brother. I did my annual visit to church. The priest said Christmas has become an exercise in nostalgia - and that resonated with me. There is an idea in everyone’s minds of what Christmas is supposed to look and feel like - and I think that applies to music as well.

People want to feel something from listening to music.

VAZUM’s self-titled E.P. is out. What can you reveal about its themes and inspirations?

Betrayal and trust are recurring themes as well as confrontation. The first song, Fall Guy, is about being literally thrown out of a bar. Big Bulp Lie is about the lure of the American Dream and how that can lead to a lifetime of misery...

Other songs are more positive. Agafia touches on the peace that comes with being a loner and disassociating from society.  

Is there a particular song from the E.P. that is especially inspiring or relevant?

I think the last song, What a Lovely Time, speaks to the unpredictable world we live in. These are the best and worst of times. As technology advances, does our quality of life improve along with it? In some ways ‘yes’ and some ways ‘no’. The Smartphone has an incredible amount of power over our lives and, perhaps, it’s time to start moving away from that.

It reminds me of the halcyon Detroit days when The White Stripes, The Dirtbombs and The Von Bondies ruled the roost! Are these bands that have inspired you? 

More so The Von Bondies than the others...

I’m friends with those folks and have been influenced from watching them play - mostly in their other bands including The Hounds Below and Pony Show. 

The city has become more socially deprived and violent since then. Is Detroit’s sense of unrest influential regarding your music?  

In a lot of ways, the city has improved…

There are new people moving in and new businesses opening.  In terms of being influenced by Detroit; the Jazz scene has had a lasting impression on me. I spent a good amount of time going to jam sessions and sitting in; as well as listening to different players. There’s a certain amount of bravado the Jazz-cats carry with them - and some of that attitude has rubbed off on me.

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Zach. You write and record the song – utilising a band for live sets. How did you meet the band? What is the live scene like in Detroit?  

I’ve become friends with people in other bands in addition to the ones I play with. When it came to putting a band together, I had a whole roster to choose from - and personnel changes from show to show. Michael O’Connor, who is one of my good friends from FUR and VSTRS, has helped me along the way from the demo process with providing feedback. He naturally was a choice for the band. Detroit has a healthy music scene. There’s a lot of bands from all genres. Ther are several different scenes and, unfortunately, they don’t overlap as much as they could.

But; there is always something to do… 

Does the presidency of Donald Trump impact your songwriting an ambition? What is the impression of Trump in Michigan right now? 

People seem to be very angry these days...

The chorus of What a Lovely Time is aimed at Trump: “You ignorant, prejudice; bigot, bully”. He is all these things and, as a result, people are very defensive and have their guard up.    

Can you tell me the artists you grew up listening to?  

My dad played The Beatles, Talking Heads and Bob Marley a lot while driving. Then, I started watching MTV and got into the grunge bands. Smashing Pumpkins left a lasting impression: they were abrasive but had a dreamy aspect that I immediately connected with (especially on Siamese Dream). I later learned Billy Corgan’s intention with that album was to create an idyllic childhood he never had.

I feel like I lived the ideal he was envisioning and, in effect, that album was the soundtrack to my younger years. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Bent Knee/PHOTO CREDIT: MullenLowe U.S. 

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out? 

Bent Knee from Boston. I played a show with them recently. They weave intricate arrangements and parts together seamlessly. The singer has an incredible voice.

Another band (worth checking out) I played with recently, Sphaeras, who are from Singapore. They’re an all-instrumental group and also play complex music but are masters of their craft and make it look easy. 

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

Smashing Pumpkins – Siamese Dream

This is the ‘perfect’ Rock record from start to finish. Crazy amounts of guitar overdubs, expressive drumming that mirrors the vocals; different types of songs, from epic jams to sappy ballads.

Depeche Mode – Violator

Another ‘perfect’ record from start to end. I began listening to Depeche Mode as an adult and they have become the most important band of my adulthood. I saw them this past summer and they are truly on a higher plane or frequency.  

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Blur – 13

Different sounds from song to song - but it all sounds like the same band. Another album I can listen to from start to end.

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

The market is over-saturated. Exploit what is unique about yourself and follow through with your vision unapologetically. 

Don’t second-guess yourself and just do.  

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Can we see you perform anywhere soon? What gigs do you have coming up? Any plans regarding U.K. dates? 

I’m playing in and around Michigan for the next few months. I would love to take VAZUM overseas. A band I play drums with will be going to Spain this spring.

We may make it to the UK, too.

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2018 is here! What do you have planned in terms of goals and ambitions? How did you see in the New Year? 

I’m working on new songs and plan to begin recording soon. I’m aiming to release another E.P. or album in the summer or fall. 

I’ve had my share of decadence and inebriation over the past year and decided to begin New Year’s prudently with a good meal and a good glass of wine. 

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). 

Thompson Twins – Lies

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Follow VAZUM

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INTERVIEW: Katharsis

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lidia Huerta 

Katharsis

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HER recent Apple Water session gained a lot…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ben Macconachie

of praise and attention. I was keen to speak with Katharsis about that performance and whether we can expect material from her soon. She discusses artists who inspire her and moving from rural Germany to London. I ask how inspiring the city is and whether she has plans concocted for this year.

There are visual elements to Kathasis’ work so I ask whether photography and cinema have helped fuel her music; whether there are any gigs coming soon; a couple of new artists we should watch out for; the albums that mean most to her – and how she saw in the New Year!

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

Hey. Thanks for having me! My week’s been good, thanks.

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

I’m a singer, songwriter and producer; originally from Germany but I’m based in London now - and I’m about to finish my degree in Songwriting. I’d describe my music as a mixture of Classical influences, R&B and Electro-Pop - but I listen to a lot of different stuff, so I try to incorporate a bit of everything!

Lyrics are super-important to me so, whatever you hear in my lyrics, comes from personal experience.

How was your Christmas? Did you manage to spend time with family?

It was nice, thank you! I don’t get to see my family a lot - so coming back to my parent’s house makes me appreciate home more.

Your Apple Water session was put online last month. What was that experience like?

It seems like it has got a lot of great feedback…

It was a bit scary, to be honest. Haha. I am a massive perfectionist, so actually putting things out there for the world to see was a bit nerve-wracking. At the same time, it feels good to finally be able to show everyone what I’ve been working on - after going through a bit of a rebrand last year…and, yeah, the response has been great.

I can’t wait to put out a second live session later this year!

I know you are hinting new music for this year. What are you working on right now? What kinds of themes are inspiring your songwriting at the moment?

My debut single is being mixed and mastered at the moment. I think it’s my favourite song I’ve ever written, so I’m really excited to share it - I can’t give you the name yet but it’s gonna be out at the beginning of February!

I’ve also got a few more tracks lined up for 2018. I’m always inspired by love and human interaction: I find the power dynamics in relationships very interesting. I wanna get behind what makes people tick.

Mental-health is also a big inspiration to me.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lidia Huerta 

You moved from Karlsruhe, Germany to London aged eighteen. What compelled that decision and was it hard adapting to a city style – as you hail from a more rural landscape?

After I finished school; I spent a gap-year in London and completely fell in love with the city…so I decided to return.

Where I’m from, there’s not much of a music scene if you’re not in a Metal band - as cliché as that sounds! There was nowhere for me to play my music. It was difficult at first: where I’m from it’s really quiet and green; so I think the hardest thing to get used to was all the noise, actually!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Aileen Lekschat

How inspiring and important is the city? Do you get a lot of motivation and guidance from the people and vibe of the capital?

I met a lot of amazing musicians and songwriters here that made me see music in dimensions that I didn’t really think about before. I learn a lot from them all the time: it’s really opened up musical horizons; if you wanna put it that way. It also makes you feel less alone in the music business - which is pretty cut-throat, of course. Having friends that know and share your struggle helps.

I also get a lot of inspiration from going to gigs and London is, of course, the place to be for live music.

Having a Classical upbringing; it is fused with R&B to create something unique. How important is your childhood tastes and early experiences to the sounds you produce now?

I started playing the piano when I was five and continued having lessons until I was twenty; so Classical music has always played a big part in my life. When I was in elementary-school, my older sisters would give me self-made C.D.s with noughties R&B on it: Nelly, Kelly Rowland; Alicia Keys and all that…and I would listen to them all day. Maybe, subconsciously, they’ve found their way back into my music today?!

As I said; I take a bit of everything…so it’s hard to tell!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lidia Huerta 

Which artists were most important to you when you were younger?

Funnily enough, I only listened to Rock, Pop-Punk and Metal when I was a teenager. I also fronted a Pop-Punk band through high-school. I really loved bands like Paramore, Jimmy Eat World and Lower Than Atlantis back then.

I still do but, of course, the music I make now is very different from that…

Listening to your work; it seems like visuals and imagery are part of who you are. Are photography, image and aesthetic beauty as important to you as music and sonic inspiration?

I think the music should always come first: no video or photoshoot can replace a great song that people connect to. But, you’re right. I really like getting artsy with photos and videos and making sure there’s imagery to go with my music - especially because I write songs from situations or images that get stuck in my head.

I also love artists like Lady Gaga - who push boundaries with their fashion and art!

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IN THIS PHOTO: IDER/PHOTO CREDIT: Lottie Turner

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I am really in love with IDER right now. They are two girls from London. Their style is so unique and their harmonies are gorgeous.

I also really love a band called ISLAND. They’re releasing an album this year - and I’m super-excited to hear it.

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IN THIS PHOTO: ISLAND/PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Tjoeng

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

Paramore - Riot!

I was thirteen and had just started singing in a Rock band – and I didn’t really have a lot of role models. So; seeing Hayley Williams front a band of boys with massive vocals like that was really encouraging.

Jimmy Eat World - Futures

A timeless album for me. I think I can listen to in ten years’ time and still love it.

Lapsley - Long Way Home

Hearing this album was eye-opening; because it was unlike anything I’d heard before. I would say it’s one of my biggest influences now.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Thomas Brooker

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

It’s hard to not freak yourself out these days with social media; seeing everyone’s highlight-reel all the time. But, I’ve found it’s important to focus on yourself and your own path and to try and not compare yourself to everyone all the time.

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

I will be supporting the amazing Malory at The Finsbury on 19th Feb. We’ll be playing some brand-new songs and it’s free entry, too!

2018 is here…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ben Macconachie

What do you have planned in terms of personal goals and ambitions? How did you see in the New Year?

I spent New Year’s Eve at my sister’s place eating lots of great vegan food. Hehe.

I wanna take better care of my health this year. Career-wise; I wanna make and release loads of music and grow as a person!

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

I’ve been listening to Table for Two by Elli Ingram a lot lately - the lyrics are super-smart!

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 Follow Katharsis

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INTERVIEW: Yazzy

INTERVIEW:

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 Yazzy

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SHE made the news last year after conducting a mass singalong…

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following a cancelled Adele concert. I have been speaking with Yazzy about that experience and what it feels like to have inspired so many people; which artists she takes to heart; the albums that mean the most to her – whether she has anything exciting planned for this year (so far).

Yazzy talks to me about her new E.P., Illusion of Love (Live in Studio), and which song from it stands out; what she did for Christmas (the interview was completed in December); the new artists we need to check out – and how she turns heartache and failed love into something hopeful and inspiring.

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

Hello! Absolutely amazing, thank you. It’s currently Christmas week and me and my siblings were given a puppy!

I hope you had a lovely Christmas, too! 

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

My name’s Yazzy. I’m an eighteen-year-old singer/songwriting based in gorgeous North Devon. I’ve been writing, performing and recording since the age of ten.

I am a full-time musician; I sing for a lot of charities including Children's Hospice South West and ChemoHero (of which I am a patron). I gig three/four times a week. I describe myself as over emotional and over-excitable.

If you were to meet me, you’d notice I’m very chatty, bubbly and giggly…and my music is very emotional and heartwrenching. Haha!

Illusion of Love (Live in Studio), your new E.P., is out on 3rd January. Can you tell me about the themes and ideas that inspired its creation?

So…Illusion of Love is an E.P. written about love, heartbreak and life experiences. 

Is there a song on the E.P. that stands out to you? Which one makes the biggest impression?

For me; it’s Heal Me - as it’s not written about boys, love or heartbreak. Its written about a very dark time in my life where I was completely lost, unmotivated and didn’t believe in myself.

I’d lost the spark - and this song is written about wanting my mind to be healed.

It seems heartache and personal conflicts are a part of your ethos and songwriting. Do you think music is a positive way of turning something hard into a positive moment?

I think songwriting is a positive way of making something good out of something bad. A lot of my songs are written about bad experiences in my life - but at least I can turn around and say: “Hey; well at least I got a song out of that”.

Music, really, is like therapy: it’s there for you to pour your heart into.

You started writing and recording music aged ten. Was there a single moment where you decided this is what you wanted to do? How do you think your music has developed since then?

The moment, for me, when I knew it was what I wanted to do was when I was ten. I’d written my first couple of songs and recorded them in my friend’s dad’s garden-shed on a little Dictaphone. He used to burn them on C.D.S (for me) for me and mum to listen to in the car.

I thought it was so cool. I knew music was the only thing for me as soon as I started.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Emzi Porcupine Hyam

You are still only eighteen, mind! Was your childhood filled with good music around the house? Which artists did you experience growing up?

Yes! my mum has great taste in music.

She used to own a shop and the albums she would have played were from artists such as Eva Cassidy, Amy Winehouse; Etta James, Nina Simone and Sam Cooke. I think you can tell, in the music I write today, that I was brought up with such soulful music. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: JP Cooper/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

JP Cooper and Frances, 100%. I saw Frances live last Easter with my mum. I honestly stood there and cried the whole way through.

Both of these artists are so heartfelt and pure. For me, it’s the songwriting that JP and Frances create that is (just) magic. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Frances/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

Not including my own; I would say Simply Eva by Eva Cassidy

I grew up listening to it. I sing Over the Rainbow and Songbird at most gigs.

JP Cooper - Raised Under Grey Skies

I love this album as its quite a recent discovery. There’s a few tracks on the album like Closer, The Only Reason and, especially, In the Silence, where the lyrics really resonate with me. This brings me on to my final choice….

Things I’ve Never Said by Frances

I love every single track on the album: literally every track is great but, in particular, Cloud 9, Don’t Worry About Me; Say It Again (because it’s my dad’s favourite song I cover) and The Last Word. I’m convinced The Last Word is one of the greatest songs ever created and, if you love a good cry like I do, it’s the song for you.

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

Stay true to yourself and try not to really listen to anyone else’s opinions. It’s good to get people involved with your music and journey - but don’t let people’s opinions affect how you feel about things.

It’s your journey, not theirs. 

I guess conducting a mass singalong after a cancelled Adele concert must count as a personal highlight?! Did you expect so many people to singalong and participate?! How do you feel looking back at that time?

It was one of the best nights of my life. Even if there were three people there it would have been (just) as amazing. It was just SO nice to be surrounded by people who love and appreciate music. 

You have performed with Jake Bugg and for Camilla and Prince Charles. Have these moments inspired you to aim big and high?

100%. I’d love, one day, for people to be as excited to perform to me as I was to perform to Jake Bugg, Princes Charles and Camilla...

It does make you feel really inspired to aim high because, for example, with Jake Bugg, it’s a completely different life if you get your lucky break. We all start off the same gigging in pubs, busking etc. and the journey is still the same - just on a bigger, more exposed scale with more opportunities.

I’d love to be as successful as Jake Bugg. 

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

I have lots of gigs coming up but, in particular, I have my album launch at The Pier House, Westward Ho! on 5th January! I’m looking forward to that one, in particular, because I’ve organised it all myself - and I’m supported by Giardino Strings (a London-based string quartet).

I know the evening will inspire me so much and start the year off on a high. 

Do you have plans for this year already?

2018 starts with the launch of my E.P., Illusion of Love, on 3rd January - and then the launch evening on the 5th (January). 

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What are your aims and ambitions for 2018?

In 2018; my New Year’s resolution is to write at least a song a week. I want to get really creative, write lots of songs and record - release a lot of songs while gaining a larger following.

That’s my aim for 2018.

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).

Frances – The Last Words (Live) – dscvr Ones to Watch 2016

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 Follow Yazzy

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