INTERVIEW: Vulpine Smile

INTERVIEW:

Vulpine Smile

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THEIR new single is in the can - and the boys are teasing…

it to the waiting world. I have been speaking with Cambridge’s Vulpine Smile about their new single, The Way It Flows, and what inspired it (it will be released to the waiting public soon). I find out - Josh shoulders the questions - how the band came together and what gigs they have coming up; the music that inspires them; what we can expect to hear on their forthcoming E.P. – some of the new artists we should check out.

I find out how Vulpine Smile’s music comes together and what motivates them; whether there is a trouble-maker in the ranks; how they spend their free time; the albums that mean the most to them – and if there is a special story behind that unique band-name.

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

We are good, thanks. Been busy working and making new music and artwork for the band.

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

We are a three-piece Garage-Blues-Rock band from Cambridge. Josh plays the guitar and sings; Matt plays bass and Jack’s on drums.

Can I ask where the name ‘Vulpine Smile’ comes from? Is there a special story behind it?

One day, Jack decided he wanted to become a tattoo artist; so he bought a tattoo gun online and, when it arrived, started tattooing his own body for practice. He then decided he needed to practice on someone else; so he asked me (Josh) if he could. Originally, I wanted an eagle - but it was too difficult to draw so I ended up with a little fox on my leg. 

‘Vulpine’ is another word for 'fox' and it seemed to roll off the tongue…so we went with it.

The Way It Flows is your new track. It sounds like you are at your most confident. Do you feel at the peak of your game? What is the song about?

We’ve been gigging and making music together for over a year now, so we feel confident playing together. We feel that there is a lot we have to show people. The song is a satire on conformity…or maybe just a love song - we’re not quite sure.

Will there be a video for it? Any plans regarding a forthcoming shoot?

We are working on concepts for a video at the moment: hopefully, soon, we will have something interesting.

There will be an E.P., I understand. Can you reveal song-titles or inspirations? What can we expect from it?

You can expect a mix of dark, heavy riffs - like in Glass Machine - but also some pretty Folk songs to even things out a bit.

Cambridge is where you are based. Is there a busy and hungry music scene up there?

There is a good music scene and there are some great bands about. However, Cambridge is more suited to Folk singers and Jazz bands. Plus; it’s a small city - so we tend to play the same venues over and over (like The Corner House or The Blue Moon).

I am interested how you all found one another. Give us an insight into the formation of Vulpine Smile…

Originally, me and Jack were a two-piece playing Garage-Rock and Blues. We started writing more complicated songs and decided to start looking for a bass player to help us out. Me and Jack are twin brothers; so we have known each other since birth - but we were both friends with Matt all the way through school.

We hadn’t seen Matt in about six years - but we knew he was a musician - so we asked him if he wanted to play bass in our band. He said ‘yes’ however, at the time, he was just a guitarist and had never picked up a bass before in his life – luckily, he took to it pretty quickly and completely transformed our sound.

Do you all share music tastes? Which artists are you each inspired by?

We do share similar music tastes but we have also introduced each other to all sorts of music. I’ve always been very inspired by old Blues and Folk music: Blind Willie Johnson in particular; Bob Dylan and Damien Rice for lyrics and Hendrix for the riffs. Oh…and Jeff Buckley (Josh).

I think Pete Trewavas from Marillion would be top of my list as an inspiration...Justin Chancellor, also (Matt)

Jack White as a songwriter and drummer: complete genius (Jack Page).

IN THIS PHOTO: Anna Calvi

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Don’t know that many new artists - but we like Anna Calvi, The Dead Weather; Uni, Screaming Females; Lillie Mae and Black Country Communion.

IN THIS PHOTO: Screaming Females/PHOTO CREDIT: Farrah Skeiky

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

I heard The White Stripes’ debut album (The White Stripes) in my late-teens and it just felt perfect to me. I didn’t know music could be so simple, yet so powerful and beautiful. This was the first time I thought about making my own music and being in a band (Josh).

Dream Theater – Octavarium

This album remains one of my most-listened-to on my iPod I think I was sixteen when I first heard it. The twenty-six-minute song, Octavarium, still gives me goosebumps. Every track is magical (Matt).

The first time I knew I wanted to be a drummer was when I heard Jack White playing the drums for The Dead Weather on their album, Horehound. I was so obsessed with his drumming that I would watch the same Dead Weather concert over and over again every night (Jack).

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

We are still adding finishing touches to the E.P. at the moment. Once that’s done; we will be getting some dates sorted. We’re always looking for gigs: we’ll play pretty much anywhere.

Looking back on your time in music so far; are there favourite memories that come to mind?

Last year, we played The Garage in London. We opened for a Chinese band Called Miserable Faith, who we’d never heard of, but, apparently, they’re massive in China - because it seemed like about two-million Chinese people turned up! They went absolutely mental when Miserable Faith came out.

It was a fun night!

Is there a standout member of the group who causes a bit of mischief – that ‘character’ that gives it an extra ounce of ‘oomph’?!

Jack is definitely one to watch...

He has a habit for spontaneous drum solos; losing his underwear and ranting on about obscure conspiracy theories involving aliens.

How do you all spend time away from music? Any hobbies or favourite ways to chill?

Jack spends a lot of time holed up in his room making weird art for the band. He also plays a lot of video games (as does Matt). We watch a lot of films; go to the cinema as much as we can and are obsessed with T.V. series Peaky Blinders and Vikings.

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).

Jack White - Respect Commander

Anna Calvi - I’ll Be Your Man

Marillion - An Accidental Man

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Follow Vulpine Smile

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/vulpinesmileband/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/vulpine-smile

INTERVIEW: Carla J. Easton

INTERVIEW:

 Carla J. Easton

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THIS ranks alongside the most fulsome interviews…

I have ever conducted - Carla J. Easton provided deep and thoughtful answers to each question I asked her! We talked about her musical upbringing and the background to Lights in the Dark. She discussed the song and how she will follow it up; whether there are any gigs pencilled in the diary; how important her family are regarding her music tastes; performing with TeenCanteen – and what it was like recording in Vancouver.

I discovered the albums and artists who have shaped her and was told some wonderful stories and memories; learned about a few new artists worth checking out; discovered whether she gets to kick back away from music – and what this week has been like for her!

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

I'm great, thanks.

The last week has been fantastic as all my friends from Canada arrived and we hit rehearsals immediately - amidst catching up with each other. I’ve has radio sessions and (been) launching the Lights in the Dark Tour.

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

My name is Carla J. Easton and I have been writing and performing music since 2004. This started with the band, Futuristic Retro Champions (I wrote the songs and played synth), before moving onto TeenCanteen in 2012 - just after finishing my Masters of Fine Art at Glasgow School of Art. TeenCanteen was the first time I started singing what I was writing - and we released our debut album in 2016.

That year; I also brought out a solo album under the alias ‘Ette’. Now…I'm just me!

Lights in the Dark is your new single. What is the story behind it? 

I wrote Lights in the Dark during the inaugural singer-songwriter, two-week residency at the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity in March 2017. It was the first of four songs I would write during my time there. I had a studio with a grand piano in it and windows that looked out onto snowy mountains and forests. It gave me a lot of time to reflect and focus. Lights' is part of a larger story thread - what has, now, become an album's worth of fully-recorded songs delving into lucid dreaming vs. the mundanity of reality (and the blur between the two).

Ultimately, this song is about the little things that count that you lose - and the little things that happen in daily life that point out to something being wrong.

It was recorded at Hotel2Tango in Montreal. How did you find the experience? Do you split your time between Canada and Glasgow? 

When I returned from the songwriting residency at Banff; I made some big changes to my life. I had Don Henry's words ringing in my ears after a session with him where I played him some of my new material. He said: “You have to make more time to write” and he explained to me that I was maybe missing out on writing, what could be, some of my best work because my lifestyle didn't allow me the time to focus...

So; I got back to Scotland and moved back to my family home to live with my mum. She let me set up a home-studio – which, was, basically, my old upright piano that I've had since I was ten (which I got tuned!); a Korg MiniPops drum machine; a Roland-Juno Di and a Casio MT-45 - and I (just) wrote and wrote and wrote. I had GarageBand on my iPad and I just demoed up everything. I'd be up until all hours getting everything recorded. The more I did this, the easier it became and, all of a sudden, I was writing about two or three songs a week.

The entire time; I had kept in contact with Howard (who I'd met on the residency) as well as with my new friends I had made there – Jesse Aaron Shire, Brett Nelson and Kev Corbett. I'd send them these demos. The album started at La Chunky in Glasgow with my very good friends, Ronan Breslin and Coliln McGeoch, who have been nothing but supportive of the work I do since the very early days of Futuristic Retro Champions. I started Pro Tools sessions with them - to then take over to Montreal and build on with my band and Howard.

What's now remarkable is that a lot of the guide vocals recorded at La Chunky have ended up being the ones used in the final mixes for the album! I really love how this is a collection of work recorded between Scotland and Canada.

Recording at Hotel2Tango in Montreal is one of the most fun experiences I have ever had in a studio - and the most intense. Ten ten-hour days in a row with live tracking then overdubs, choir singing; tubular bells, trumpets; strings and sitar. None of the songs had been rehearsed together as a band. Howard said: “Let's just set up and hit record and make a record that captures the moment it all clicks”. We all went with our gut instinct on a lot of songs, as a result. I like going into a studio this way: I'd say I thrive on it! You don't have time to overthink anything and you aren't attached to anything going in.

Plus; when you get the chance to listen back, it's so exciting to hear what you have just created – it's incredible to listen to something that didn't exist thirty-minutes previously.

With that in mind; what are the main differences in the music scenes of, say, Glasgow and Montreal? 

It's hard to say!

Most of my time in Montreal was spent in the recording studio. Prior to starting the sessions, I was invited to play at Pop Montreal - which is similar to The Great Escape, though it seemed more relaxed and less of an industry event. There were so many bands playing and gigs happening - the city was positively buzzing with late-night melodies.

Montreal is an incredible city - and I feel lucky to have spent time there while the album was being made.

The remainder of your upcoming album was also recorded there. Can you reveal the subjects and inspirations that go into the record? 

Loosely; it's realisation and escapism: lucid dreaming and introspection with storytelling at its core. Howard and I talked a lot about George Harrison and All Things Must Pass during the recording sessions. I think that record and Phil Spector's Wall of Sound were always going to be huge factors in terms of sound - but translating into something new. All the musicians who recorded with me are also solo singer-songwriters in their own right so, bringing together all these different musical backgrounds and genres was always going to result in something that encompassed many different sounds - while maintaining a strong Pop feel with the synth. bang in the middle of it all.

You have recorded one album with TeenCanteen - one solo album as Ette. How do you feel, since then, you have progressed as a songwriter? 

I'd hope I'm getting stronger and better as I'd never wanted to plateau as an artist. I'm enjoying playing about with song structure at the moment and writing without worrying about what part is a verse or what part is a chorus. I think that comes from reading poetry and attending poetry readings: thinking more about the flow of words and a song as a whole, rather than in sections. Though I know this has proved annoying for the people recording with me; when they say “Can we jump to the chorus” and I don't know what the chorus is - and everyone has a different take on what part the chorus is! Sonically, I feel like the album at Hotel2Tango is the album I have been hoping to realise for a long time. I think about arrangements a lot more when I'm writing now.

I know where a brass or string melody will go and that that will make up a large part of the final recording - so it becomes part of the songwriting. I'm not sure if that means I'm dipping my toe into co-producing or not!

Tell me about the music you were raised on. Did you have quite eclectic tastes as a youngster? 

Very much so…and I could talk about music all day long! My eldest brother is ten years older than me; so I listened to what he was listening to. This meant that, at the age of five - when he was fifteen -, I was listening to Teenage Fanclub, BMX Bandits; The Stone Roses and The Lemonheads. The Lemonheads’ cover of Mrs. Robinson was the first 7'' record I owned. I remember the significance of Oasis bursting onto the scene as my brother was obsessed with them. There were always NME and Melody Maker’s lying about the house - and I would religiously read them and then ask my brother to buy me singles or albums based on the reviews in them. I had a huge poster of Tim Burgess on my bedroom wall by the time I was ten - facing a similar-sized poster of Bob Marley. I've always loved music. I equally adore Kylie Minogue and The Polyphonic Spree.

I think it's best not to be genre specific and dip your toe in everything.

In addition to writing a song for Belle and Sebastian’s E.P., How to Solve Our Human Problems; you are due to play on Marc Riley’s show. Do you have any other ambitions and big plans for the future? 

We'll finish the Lights in the Dark Tour and, then, I have a couple of shows in April and another single release around then. I'm at my happiest writing and recording - so I hope to continue with that this year.

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out? 

Pocket Knife, Jared Celosse and West Princes.

IN THIS PHOTO: Jared Celosse

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

All Things Must Pass – George Harrison

I used to get home from school and switch on the T.V. and watch music channels. We had Sky hooked up to a small box-T.V. in my brother’s room - which also doubled as a den for people to hang out in. I saw the VH1 documentary on the re-release of All Things Must Pass. I was fifteen at the time. I asked my brother to pick me up a copy of it when he was in Glasgow on his way home from work and bring it home to me in Carluke. He'd always do that if I asked him too. I remember the first time I stuck on C.D. two with the opening title-track. I was standing on my bed right up next to my speakers. My room was yellow and the sun was pouring in through the windows - and the opening chords and rhythm of All Things Must Pass Started. (“Sunshine doesn't last all morning...”). My dad had just passed away and George taught me how to deal with that.

I will always think of that record as a friend that got me through some difficult times. I love listening to it now as an adult and feeling like I'm home.

Tapestry – Carole King

My eldest brother is ten years older than me – and he is a music obsessive. When he passed his driving test; he used to make mixtapes and tell me to grab my sunglasses. We would go for a drive around the Clyde Valley listening to the compilations he had made. It was one of my favourite things to do from the age of eight onwards. One day, we were driving around with the stereo volume turned way up and the opening piano riff of I Feel the Earth Move started blasting out the speakers. It was the first time I had heard a piano so up-front in the mix. When Carole started singing; I couldn't believe what I was hearing. I think I must have been about fourteen at the time. It was also the first time I had heard a woman's voice sing that way. It was soulful and scratchy and wasn't perfect like the vocal performances I had been exposed to on Pop records of the time.

(I made a mental note).

My brother had the biggest C.D. and record collection ever. It was all carefully catalogued and alphabetised. He always told me not to go near it when he wasn't in! I never listened to him and would snoop around looking for things when I got in from school and he was still working in Glasgow (he didn't move out till he was twenty-seven!). That's when I found Tapestry and I think it changed my life in ways I'll never know. I'd been having piano lessons since the age of eight. Listening to Tapestry made me want to start and bash out melodies on my upright and sing along. Carole's voice made me want to sing along with her.

The Cookies – The Cookies

A lot of people (always) assume that all I listen to is girl-groups - which isn't true at all! I love and am fascinated by the genre and own a lot of records by them…but this stems from a wider interest in understanding their often-overlooked role in the history of popular music. The first girl-group record I got was a greatest hits compilation by a group I had never heard of before called The Cookies. I was twenty-one and living in Edinburgh at the time.

My favourite record shop was and still is Backbeat Records in Newington. It is jam-packed full of vinyl - it's so full you have to leave your bag and coat at the door just so you can get in the place. I had been visiting regularly to buy Northern Soul records and had struck up a friendship with the owner. There was a room in the back that he used to call ‘The Soul Kitch’ - as the shop was a converted old flat. He'd put a box in there and stick records in it - he thought I would like them. One day; The Cookies were peering up at me…so I bought it.

I got home and stuck it on my record player and Earl-Jean MacRae arrived into my life with a voice like an iron fist in a velvet glove - and that was me absolutely hooked. Who was she? Who were the group? Were there more out there? The swagger to the song Don't Say Nothing Bad About My Baby was incredible; the songwriting outstanding - but then it would be: it was Goffin and King

That's how I got hooked on girl-groups.

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

Wed 31st Jan: Manchester at The Castle

Fri 2nd Feb: London at the Sebright Arms

Wed 4th April: Glasgow at Nice and Sleazy's

Wed 11th (April): Edinburgh at Sneaky Pete's

You perform with a Canadian band. How exciting is it getting on stage with them and putting your songs to the people? 

Sadly; I won't always be performing with my Canadian band - which is why it has been so wonderful to have them over for the release of the first single we recorded together. It means a lot to me that the first time people will hear these songs played live is with the musicians who helped me shape and create it.

Do you get to kick-back and detach from music much – is so; how do you spend your spare time? 

I read a lot: especially poetry books and philosophy. I like to have a stack by my bed to dip in and out of. Sometimes, I draw. I actually hate being idle. It really freaks me out if I find myself with nothing to do. Outside of music; I've been working on a documentary with Blair Young for about eighteen months now - and I've been continuing to write and record with Stephen Watkins, too. I'd say solo album number-three is halfway done…before solo album number-two has even been released!

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).

Always SO HARD to do this!

Right now, how about the Lambchop cover of Prince's When You Were Mine. It's absolutely tremendous!

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Follow Carla J. Easton

 Official:

http://www.carlajennifereaston.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/CarlaJEaston

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/carla.j.easton

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/carla.j.easton/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/videoartist111

INTERVIEW: Late TV

INTERVIEW:

 Late TV

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I am already a fan of Late TV...

I was, therefore, excited when they announced the single, Losin’ It – so I jumped at the chance to catch up with them. Luke Novak (from the band) talks about the new single and whether there will be more material; how the track differs from their previous track, Citizen; why they have adopted a Bowie-esque sound to their latest cut – and what touring dates they have coming.

I learn why London is so important to the guys; what music the band are inspired by (and Luke grew up around); what the best Late TV memories have been so far; whether there are any resolutions in Luke’s/the band’s camp – some new artists are offered up for us to seek out.

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Hi, Late TV. How are you? How has your week been?

Pretty sweet. We’re back in the saddle after the festivities - and looking forward to our single launch gig on 24th February.

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

We consist of: Luke J. Novak on Vocals, Lyrics and Guitars; Martin Coxall on Keys; Ryan Szanyi on Bass; Richard ‘Beu’ Bowman on Drums - and a brass section featuring Evesham Nicholas on Sax and Matthew Halsall on Trumpet.

Losin’ It is your new single. What can you reveal about its story and conception?

Lyrically; it came together as an abstract meditation on that element of the human condition that’s always searching for something unattainable: possibly because it doesn’t exist. We are all playing a big game and are, by definition, destined to lose it. Musically; it’s built around the rhythm section’s groove.

We want it to take you into kind of neon dream-world: a lurid Post-Pop-culture dystopia that you can shimmy your way through….

It follows last year’s triumphant single, Citizen. Did the great reception that track was afforded pump you all to create Losin’ It?

We definitely felt more confident that there’s a place out there for our vibe. It always good to get some praise but, that said, we’d make these tunes anyway. You’ve just got to do what you do.

Can you tell me about the video’s concept and how that all came together?

I (Luke) work as a photographer - when I’m not writing a Rock masterpiece. My friend in that world, Vladimir Studenic, and I wanted to collaborate on a project outside of our work. Vlad makes these beautiful stop-motion videos. We felt like the grinding rhythm and lyrical narrative of Losin’ It would lend itself well to a photographic animation. It grew from there; I think we successfully illustrate the song and conjure up the atmosphere while leaving it open for the viewer’s interpretation.  

There are David Bowie-esque ‘Plastic-Soul’ touches on your new track. Is he someone you are compelled by – and what is it about that period that resonates?

Oh, yeah. We love funky-era Dave.

As a group; we enjoy all kind of things: from Indie to Hip-Hop; but we are definitely unified by a fetish for that 1970s/1980s period. Personally; I love how you could create your own mythology and dress up like a spaceman. Mainstream Pop culture (it seems) at that time was open in that way. In my lifetime; it appears to have branched onto separate tracks. Maybe it was easier for marketing - and they refined the process into more labelled compartments.

I like to f*ck with that by slamming things together that shouldn’t work.   

Will there be more material coming? What do you guys have planned?

Hopefully, your fine readers will get behind Losin’ It and we’ll be spurred onto more recording! I’d love to do an E.P. or maybe even an album (if we could find the funding).

How important is London, and its myriad styles and culture, to your music and lyrical perspective? Do you take a lot from the people?

Well. We were all drawn to London from the outside. That’s because that it’s the kind of place where you can find like-minded people for whatever you want to do. That’s a special thing: you can’t put a price on it…even if your landlord definitely does. There’s so much humanity rubbing shoulders that you can’t help but be inspired. I think about looking through photographs; the minute I come across one with a person…it’s instantly more captivating for me.

That’s why urban spaces are interesting: they have that in spades.   

You have French and American D.N.A. in the band. How much U.S. Jazz and Parisian smooth do you throw into the music?!

Ryan is a true American jazzman. He had his own trio back in Chicago playing standards - but he also loves Rock and Pop stuff. It definitely affects the groove - having someone who straddles schools like that. Martin definitely brings a French touch: Sébastien Tellier; Daft Punk, Phoenix etc.

I can hear that tone in his playing. 

Was it hard getting the band together? It seems like you all come from various walks of life! How did that initiation start?

It developed over time…

Beu (Drums) and I have played in bands together since school: it’s intuitive between us really. Since then, people have come and gone around us. However; we felt like something really clicked with this group. A lot of our ideas, that felt awkward before, suddenly started making sense when we formed Late TV.

Looking back at last year; what are your impressions and best memories from that time?

We loved unleashing Citizen into the world but, really, it was playing live: it felt like we really hit our stride as a live band.

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

I (Luke) first remember music from my mum’s car. I’m talking pop like Queen, Tina Turner; Stevie Nicks, Eurythmics; Paul Simon - things like that. Then, when different branches of my family upgraded their ‘hi-fi systems'; they donated their redundant old vinyl records to me; probably to play with...but I used to listen to them. I heard Roxy Music, David Bowie - right back to my eldest uncle’s Shadows stuff and my grandad’s Louis Armstrong.

I was a weird kid - but it saved me from just liking Shaggy.

Mathew says he first remembers his dad's Ry Cooder collection - and Ryan went extra-deep and was into Cannonball Adderley and Thelonious Monk. Beu has an elder brother who got him to drum in a childhood Rock 'n' Roll covers duo when he was really young - and that got him into it. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Khruangbin

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

Khruangbin just released a great album. They are playing in the U.K. in February. Locally; check out Sarah Tandy Trio for Jazz; Natalie Bouloudis for bluesy noir-ish Folk and Outer Lines (featuring the Jazz-composing skills of our man, Martin). Swipht are a band that we have played with (that I rate).

IN THIS PHOTO: Natalie Bouloudis

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

We are playing a charity gig for BACE (Building and Assisting Communities with Education) at The Antelope in Tooting on 9th February. We are Launching Losin’ It on the 24th Feb at The Finsbury (in Manor House). It’s going to be a party!

The sound there is always great.

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

To make that E.P. happen, and to play outside of London, would be cool. You know…spread our wings a bit.

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).

Luke: Low Cut Connie - Controversy (Prince cover)

I found this band's version the other day - and it kicks ass

Evesham: The Bombay Royale – Bunty Bunty (Give Me Back My)

Ryan:  Cannonball Adderley - Walk Tall

Martin: P Diddy - Bad Boy for Life

Beu:  Al Wilson - The Snake

Matt: CCS - Sunrise

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Follow Late TV

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/TheLateTV

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/theLateTV

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/late.t.v/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/latetv

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnSrBBtXCqRoX_R5EtfWgVQ

INTERVIEW: DYLYN

INTERVIEW:

DYLYN

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THE wealth of Canadian talent means, today…

I get to feature the wonderful DYLYN. She talks about the inspiration behind her latest single, Wolf, and why relationship failures/experiences have compelled her work – and why she is in a happier, more settled position now. I ask whether we can expect to see DYLYN in Britain; what kind of music influences her; whether there is more material later this year – and whether music is therapeutic to her.

She tells me more about the upcoming E.P., Sauvignon and a Kimono, and what we can expect from it; the albums that mean the most to her; the musical memories that stand in the mind; whether the Toronto music scene is productive right now – some advice she would give to new artists emerging.

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

So happy I got to release this record. I’m sure you can relate to the fact that the weather’s been so up and down (in Canada). I’ve slipped ‘banana peel-style’ twice already: just waiting for the third time (smiles).

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

Heyyy everyone. My name is DYLYN - short for ‘Gwendolyn’. I was born in Toronto, raised in the 'burbs. I fell in love with Led Zeppelin at fourteen and realized music was going to be my future; did the whole Garage band scene; played, played, played shows. I started my solo career and, up until recently, I’ve truly found a sound I can call my own. I’ve always idolized Debbie Harry and Joan Jett - to name a few. I like to pull Punk-y drums and synth - and, mixing it with new sounds blends perfectly with my deep vocals.

Being you is the most important thing in the music world - it’s real and it resonates. 

Wolf is your new single. Can you tell me about the origins and how it came to mind?

The past few years have been a bit of a battle. On the upside: you never run out of stuff to write about. Post break-up blues lit the fire - and out came Wolf.

It’s the nature of not giving a f*ck that led to this tune.

It seems a guy - a hot one at that - led the heart into making a bad choice. Did you learn a lot after recording the song?

Isn’t it always about a guy?! I learn a lot about myself when I write these songs. You have to narrow down your real, raw emotions in two-three minutes. Regrets? Never. Things happen for a reason. If we can become stronger from the situation, then we’re in a good place…

Do you feel music has been therapeutic and personally enriching? Has it been a tough last few years to work through?

Wow; it’s as if you knew what I was thinking. Yes! It’s been incredible. I’m happier than ever. I’ve found an incredible guy and I’m a much more positive person. I used to always let negative thoughts get the best of me - but I’ve consciously made an effort to flip that switch.

Good, good; good, good vibrations.

Sauvignon and a Kimono is a great title for an E.P.! What kind of stories and ideas can we expect to hear in the E.P.?

Sauvignon and kimono was my lifestyle while recording the record.

I love a kimono. I’d wake up, go to the studio; come home, put my kimono on and either have a few glasses of Jack (Daniels) or some nice red wine - and repeat. Every song is a stage, emotion or event that transpired in the past few years: breaking down, losing it; losing it again and, mainly, growing.

What music did you grow up listening to? How early did music come into your life?

I probably performed my first song at four-years-old - but it was just a natural instinct. I remember growing up listening to the Beach Boys, The Beatles; then transitioned into Classic-Rock at around fourteen. I have an extensive record collection - and my house is covered in Rock and Roll memorabilia.

It seems you throw a lot of genres and sounds into the mix. Do you think that variability and diversity lends richer emotional weight to your music?

Definitely: I love mixing old with new.

The eras that have influenced my music changed the industry in ways we don’t understand. Taking those seeds and dropping them into new stuff makes it all come together nicely. I love listening to current songs and thinking: ‘Wow; this reminds me of something from the 1970s but I can’t put my finger on it’ – nostalgia; even when it’s hot-off-the-press.

You hail from Toronto. What is the scene like for new musicians? Is it an inspiring city?

I live in the suburbs and rarely get downtown. I’ve written most of my music with producers in L.A. but, funny enough; most of them are Canadian. I can definitely say some incredible acts have broken out from here…definitely something special in our water.

IN THIS PHOTO: Greta Van Fleet/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

All the artists I’d recommend are dead or not playing anymore...

In terms of new stuff; there’s an incredible band, Greta Van Fleet - the singer sounds like Robert Plant!

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

Such a good question…it changes all the time!

Rumours – Fleetwood Mac

The songs never get old - and I always seem to find another lyric that relates to my life.

Led Zeppelin IV – Led Zeppelin

They are just Rock and Roll gods (“We’re not worthy”).

Michael Jackson – Off the Wall

He changed everything in music. I always go back to this album because it’s timeless.

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

I am going on tour! I'm going to Germany in May. I will definitely be announcing dates soon.

Will you come to the U.K. at some point?

Trying to set that up right now! I’m dying to go there and play…

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

Just to be more of a positive thinker. It seems like such a simple task – but, sometimes, we can be our own worst enemy.

Looking back on your time in music so far; are there favourite memories that come to mind?

I love touring...

Put me on a tour for eight months straight and I’ll enjoy every second of it…or finishing a song and sitting on the couch at 6 A.M. in the studio thinking: ‘Wow, I did this’.

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).

Ramble On by Led Zeppelin

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Follow DYLYN

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/callmedylyn

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/callmeDYLYN

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/callmedylyn/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/2BTdHbNV5Pnaq0nUOIh7Jl

INTERVIEW: Milo Gore

INTERVIEW:

Milo Gore

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SPEAKING with Milo Gore is always…

a bit of an experience. It is interesting revisiting the musician’s work – as I ask about the latest track, Towel on the Door. I learn about its story and whether there is new material coming soon; how Milo Gore found his band; the artists/albums that have inspired his music; what kind of tour dates are coming up - and where we can catch the guys play.

I ask about Milo Gore whether there is enough variation in music and, in terms of his material, it has varied and evolved; which new artists are worth checking out and getting behind; if he has any resolutions and ambitions sorted for this year – how the fantastic Milo Gore sounds come together and conspire.

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

It’s been tip-top, thank you.

The band and I have just been getting ready for some upcoming gigs we have - so, we’ve just been practising. We’re all back at uni now; so it’s much easier to organise everything.

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

I’m Milo Gore. I’m twenty-two and I live in Falmouth, Cornwall. I play with a bunch of my mates in an Alternative-Rock band - and that’s pretty neat. I released my first E.P. in July 2017 - and that’s out on Spotify and all that - it’s called Watch the Tide. I guess we’re just rough undiscovered sound at the moment but we going strong - especially with this New Year.

Towel on the Door is the new single. What is the story behind the song?

It’s another soppy romantic song!

It’s about another breakup I had. It’s almost a lead-on track to Coco (from the first E.P.) as it’s the same girl, different breakup; different breakdown. Towel on the Door has two funny reasons why it’s a funny song title: one of them being the fact that, when I first showed it to my drummer, Luke; there was simply just a towel hanging on the door!

How, would you say, it differs from previous releases?

It’s an all-acoustic track...

I never really enjoy just releasing a fully-acoustic track as I feel a band adds so much more in terms of mood and dynamics – but, in this case, I didn’t think there was really much to add; it spoke for itself. Stanley Box, my friend and producer, did such a good job and kept it warm and lo-fi…just how I wanted it.

He was instrumental.

Will there be more material later in the year? Can we expect an E.P. or album at all?

Yes, yes, yes! There will, hopefully, be our two-track E.P., Too Much Too Soon, out at the end of February. Very excited for these two. One is an absolute banger, co-written with Jay Beale (look him up if you don’t know him; he is a genius). But, yes; very excited to get that out for y’all.

Stay tuned; because I think it could be a big record for us...

How did you come to meet your band? Is there quite a close relationship between you guys?

We all just met at uni and we all (just) clicked automatically. Such a great dynamic in our band: everyone has their own genuine personality. The best thing is everyone can be as loud as each other!

I couldn’t do anything without them. They have been amazing to me and my music.

Your music has quite a fresh and unexpected sound. How much of your childhood musical heroes do you put into your own stuff?

I guess. I don’t know any covers - so I couldn’t say I got their guitar parts and put them in my songs. However, vocally and melody-wise; I guess I do take a lot of inspiration from the people I listen to - even if I don’t know I’m doing it. But; people like Bon Iver and Ben Howard do inspire me greatly.

The genius songwriting really captures me.

Do you think there is enough variation in the music scene right now? What trends do you expect to see popping up this year?

Ooh god. I’m awful with trends and all that.

My music knowledge is the size of a fish. Ahah. I just do my own thing. I would say there is plenty of variation. The middle and core consisting of the ‘Pop sensations’ etc. may be a bit saturated - but I defo think a lot of the youth have recognised that and are starting to create really inventive sounds…even if we are a bit commercial ourselves.

IN THIS PHOTO: Rex Orange County/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been listening to a lot of Rex Orange County. I f*cking love the music so much. The lyrics are genius. Urm...Nai Harvest are sick. Their drums are so good - and the fact that it’s a two-man band is insane when they make that much noise. Then I say it in every interview…listen to Bon Iver’s new album if you haven‘t. He is stupid-good. It’s beautiful; everything about it.

Maybe not all new - but two are new to me! That’s the beautiful thing: maybe the market isn’t saturated after all...and there is a lot of diversity!

IN THIS PHOTO: Nai Harvest/PHOTO CREDIT: Jon Cuadros

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

Ben Howard - I Forgot Where We Were

It got me through a really dark time. Lyrically amazing.

Bear’s Den – Islands

Harmonies, the hooks; song structure and writing = class.

Bon Iver - 22, A Million

Beautiful the whole way through. It takes you somewhere else - which is a very powerful thing.

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

Urm…just keep going... I dunno: we ain’t anywhere ourselves! But; I would say maybe we are going in the right direction. So, I guess…just keep making contacts, gigging and making demos. Keep growing your trade and practising it - as it only gets harder the longer the journey goes on.

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

We are playing Newquay at Whiskers Bar on the 21st Feb, and then, a few Sofar Sound dates and Balconytv dates - that we are in the process of sorting out.

We also have a few more gigs lined up with dates to be decided, too.

A fresh year is here. What do you have planned in terms of personal goals and ambitions? How did you and the guys see in the New Year?

I gotta get fit: I’m so out of shape. It’s embarrassing.

So; I’m going to get back to my footie, for sure. I’m actually going sober as well. I’m thirteen-days clean at the moment - long way to go. Musically, big plans. We want to keep growing as we are.

In our last interview; you mentioned you were getting a new tattoo (with ‘Forever, Whatever’ inscribed). Any plans for new tattoos this year? What was the reason behind your current one?

The tattoos are all off the back of my Watch the Tide E.P. They are just symbols to me that each has a special meaning; often connected to my depression and all that jazz. But, to be honest, I like to let people decide what they mean…”Forever Whatever”, as I say.

I guess that’s what it means.

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

Wicked, thank you. Urm; ok. I’ll go for Ben Howard - Time Is Dancing.

Cheers! Thanks for having me. Milo

________

Follow Milo Gore

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MiloGoreMusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MiloGoreMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/milogoremusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjvk0KX6ZisK5Y-hIwWxGPw

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/milogoremusic

INTERVIEW: Erin Pellnat

INTERVIEW:

 Erin Pellnat

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

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!

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.

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! 

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.

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.

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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Follow Erin Pellnat

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/erroneousthep

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/erroneousthep/

BandCamp:

https://erinpellnat.bandcamp.com/releases

INTERVIEW: Kaia Kater

INTERVIEW:

Kaia Kater

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

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.

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.

​​​​​​​

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...

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

________ 

Follow Kaia Kater

Official:

http://www.kaiakater.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/kaiakatermusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/kaiakater

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/kaiakater

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/KaiaKater

INTERVIEW: SUB BLUE

INTERVIEW:

 SUB BLUE

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HE is one of the most exciting young artists…

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.

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.

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.

IN THIS PHOTO: Mahalia

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

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

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.

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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Follow Sub Blue

Official:

http://www.iamsubblue.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/iamsubblue/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/iamsubblue

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/iamsubblue/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/iamsubblue

INTERVIEW: Safari Gold

INTERVIEW:

 Safari Gold

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MY tour of the musical world takes me to Cardiff…

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.

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…

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!

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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Follow Safari Gold

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/safarigoldmusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/safarigoldmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/safarigoldmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6JGHnhNiw2mb4JbowCKKEB

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Timsters

INTERVIEW:

Timsters

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THE past couple of days have been an international affair…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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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 Follow Timsters

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/timstersmusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/timsters

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/timsters

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4Th2mI4JpvG2Do9fWCBZO4

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClsBhAD-A38txwah9CPKndA

INTERVIEW: Falling Ghost

INTERVIEW:

Falling Ghost

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THIS is the last of my interviews that…

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.

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.

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.

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.

 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.

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.

________

Follow Falling Ghost

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/fallingghost1

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/fallingghost/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/fallingghost1/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/fallingghost

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0n7nU5lyADWWbTpE3AEB2O

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSXAJ6GKWpcfZoup518Mlpg

INTERVIEW: iamhill

INTERVIEW:

 iamhill

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FROM Belgium; it is off to Canada…

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.

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.

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…

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.

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.

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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Follow iamhill

 Official:

http://www.iamhill.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/i_am_hill

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/iam.hill.official/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/i_am_hill/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/i_am_hill

INTERVIEW: Pale Grey

INTERVIEW:

 ALL BAND PHOTOS: Bettina Gente

Pale Grey

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MY blog is getting rather international…

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.

_______

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Follow Pale Grey

Official:

http://www.palegreymusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/palegreymusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/palegreymusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPEguLa65er9g8gcRmD-yvA

BandCamp:

https://palegreymusic.bandcamp.com/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/palegreymusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/50KI9424n5FMCX9zY2JFcH

INTERVIEW: Chiara Berardelli

INTERVIEW:

Chiara Berardelli

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SCOTLAND is back in my heart…

.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.

_______

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!

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.

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!

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...

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.

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.

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.

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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Follow Chiara Berardelli

 Official:

https://www.chiaraberardelli.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ChiaraBerardelliMusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjNSpT3BitqqUE8orILT4QA

BandCamp:

https://chiaraberardelli.bandcamp.com/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/chiaramusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5bXNaBxnzz23fxGUVjAoUp

INTERVIEW: Fernweher

INTERVIEW:

 Fernweher

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I have interviewed a few artists from Italy…

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).

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).

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...

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.

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.

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.

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

Official:

https://www.fernwehermusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/fernwehermusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/IAMfernweher

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/13cOZtpZs3cxwk0CJmPsKY

INTERVIEW: July Jones

INTERVIEW:

July Jones

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THERE are a lot of great artists coming through…

that means this year’s music is in very good hands. I have been speaking with July Jones about her new track, SOLO. It is a fantastic track - and one I was keen to learn more about. She discusses her musical rise and how she has changed since her earliest material – and why she decided to settle in London.

I ask whether SOLO is the sound of where she is now; if we are going to see more material emerge; those new artists worth a longer glance – whether the music from the past is more influential and important (than that) of the present.

_______

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

Hi. I’m fantastic, thank you! It’s been very musical - like every week. I've been in the studio almost every day; definitely eating way too unhealthy…but making some amazing music.

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

Of course. My name is July Jones (yes; like the month of July). I’m a Dark-Electro-Pop artist and songwriter based in London, U.K.  

SOLO is your new track. Is there a story behind that one?

Haha, of course: behind every track I put out there’s a (sometimes embarrassing) story. SOLO is about terminating a long-term relationship and kind of getting through the process of moving on. It definitely feels very lonely and cold once you break up; so I went back and forth in this relationship just because I was holding onto somebody. I got mad about it and this song came out. It was written in less than an hour - so the process was very fast.

The embarrassing part of this one is that my ex-girlfriend is actually the video director (on the music video) for SOLO - which is about her. We are still really close and she’s my best friend in the world.  Our workflow and love for art is so strong that we just don’t actually care about the break up. As long as we have a sincere, artistic and amazing product in the creative…it’s still embarrassing to tell, though; people find it hilarious.

The song has a very contemporary and vivacious vibe! Was it easy putting it together? Will it lead to more material?

Thank you. Yes!

SOLO was the first song where I felt like I found my musical style: from there on, it just exploded creatively. I have some great new tracks lined up for the rest of this year that really reflect my sound and personality - each with their own visuals.

In terms of sound; it was easy putting together on the day - but to get to the Electro-Pop sound I wanted; it literally took me my whole life. I’ve been working so hard to find who I am. I’m so proud of myself for growing so much, so fast.

I hear shades of 1980s music in the single. Are you inspired by artists from the past? Who did you grow up listening to?

Thank you. I’m definitely inspired by the past - but I’m more inspired by the present. I love current artists and take inspiration from various genres. I absolutely adore artists like The Weeknd, Lorde; Dagny, Billie Eilish; Halsey, Lana Del Rey and 6lack.

Every single one is different - but I definitely take inspiration from all of them.

It seems like, on Bad Influence, you are embracing more R&B shades. It is a departure! What was the reason for taking a new direction? Do you think this song is the ‘sound of July Jones’?

I still love Bad Influence but it was never a song that defined my style. We knew that while putting it out there - but we are still super-proud of the track. At the time; we decided we would either put it out at that time or nobody would ever hear it.

It’s all a part of a process.

Debut single, Jump in the Water, resonated with fans and the uninitiated alike. How does it feel knowing that song got such a lot of love?!

Jump in the Water was my first release - and I couldn’t be more proud of it...

I knew no one in England back then when I was writing this particular song. I travelled to Bristol to a producer four-five times and paid him everything I had to help me produce the track - but it worked out really well. I think it got as much love as it did because it was sincere: I really meant what I was writing and I was opening myself up to the world.

Also, loads of my friends are gay - so definitely enjoyed the video. Haha!

You are a champion of L.G.B.T.Q. rights. Do you feel more musicians should act as patrons? Is this something you will dedicate more of your time/career to?

I think those kinds of decisions really depend on a person/artist: if someone doesn’t want to expose themselves and wants it to be only about the music, then that’s how they should be. As long as they feel comfortable and accepted in the community - I don’t think anyone is obligated to promote it. It’s a beautiful community to be a part of. I’m actually so glad I turned out gay and became a part of this.

Thanks, mom!

London is where you are based. How important is the city and its people?

I feel like anyone that lives in London has a love-hate relationship with it.

London can be tough to live in: it’s expensive; it can be dirty, aggressive and lonely. But, at the same time, it’s real; it has all the opportunities and people you can wish for - you just have to dare to ‘jump in the water’ and take them (see what I did there).

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

Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?

How much time do you have?! I can recommend all day…

There are seriously so many talented artists but, if I have to choose; I’d definitely say Billie Eilish (she’s blowing up already) and MEMBA (amazing producers).

IN THIS IMAGE: The logo for MEMBA/IMAGE CREDIT: MEMBA

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

The Weeknd - Kiss Land

I love the artistry, the production - this album is a bit inspiration of mine

Lorde - Pure Heroine

She brought something really fresh to the table: there’s a lot of simplicity in the sound of the album.

Rihanna - ANTI

In love with the heavy production of the album.

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

Be real to yourself; find your true strengths and weaknesses and work on them. Don’t deceive yourself into believing you’re perfect at everything - you’re probably not. Focus on what you’re good at and make that (be) your advantage.

At the same time; work twice as hard on your weaknesses.

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

I just played a gig at Metropolis Studios (which was fun). Apart from that; I’m doing a mini club tour and will be gigging across the U.K. in the coming months - so keep an eye on my Spotify and socials for news.

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

Make music, take risks and be truly happy.  

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).

Thank you! Billie Eilish - Bellyache

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 Follow July Jones

Official:

https://julyjones.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/JulyJonesMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/julyjones/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/julyjonesmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JulyJonesMusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/julyjones

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0sFyRdif7dRPjq9uHmsJlp

INTERVIEW: Albert Man

INTERVIEW:

 Albert Man

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

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…

________

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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).

_______

 Follow Albert Man

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:

PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Walker 

Will Varley

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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...).

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.

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

Official:

http://www.willvarley.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/willvarleymusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/willvarleymusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/willvarleymusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQHYPaQAEuMSpugQ49TFlag

INTERVIEW: Corinna Jane

INTERVIEW:

 Corinna Jane

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SHE has been a little under the weather this month…

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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!

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.

________

 Follow Corinna Jane

Official:

https://www.corinnajane.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/corinnajanemusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/corinnajane/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/corinnajane

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Corinna_Jane

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Nath Bravo

INTERVIEW:

Nath Bravo

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Follow Nath Bravo

Official:

https://artist.spinnup.com/nathbravo

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BRAVONATH/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thenathbravo/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/nathbravo

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thenathbravo

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/50MLDp0XLGoVynTpJsDkEP

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/nathbravo