INTERVIEW: Brandy Zdan

INTERVIEW:

Brandy Zdan

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I have been checking out…

I Want Your Trouble and speaking with its performer, Brandy Zdan. She reveals the background to the song and working with Tom Blakenship and Carl Broemel; what comes next for her; what we can expect from her album, Secretear – what it was like recording in Nashville.

Zdan tells me about the gigs coming up; whether she will play any dates outside the U.S.; how she spends her time away from music – recommending some new artists to look out for.

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

Hi, there! My week has been wonderful. Just got off the road from some fantastic tours opening for Buddy Guy and Doyle Bramhall II. It’s been a whirlwind couple months. Glad to be home for a minute.

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

I’m a Rock ‘n’ Roll artist living in Nashville, TN - but originally from Winnipeg, MB (Canada).  I’ve had a couple of ‘past lives’ in my music career as a sidewoman in a TX band called The Trishas and, before that, as half of Canadian Folk/Gothic duo, Twilight Hotel.

I live and breathe music: it’s all I’ve known. I’ve been doing this a long time but I’m most excited to be out in the world on my own with this new music. I love steel guitar, a fine scotch or fine tequila…and I’m an avid birder.

 

I Want Your Trouble is new. Can you tell me what inspired the song?

This song was inspired by a text message that my husband Aaron sent to me while we were courting. It simply said: ‘I want your trouble’. I knew it had to be a song, so I took it and ran and, of course, gave him 50% of the writing credit.

My husband Aaron Haynes plays the drums on this record and this really is his shining drums moment on the record. We had to track this at night and I came back in with a flask of whiskey to nail the vocal.

Needed to be a little loose for this one…

It features Tom Blakenship (My Morning Jacket) on bass and Carl Broemel on guitar. What was it like working with them?

They are incredible musicians and a pleasure to work with. This is the second record they have played on with me. Teddy Morgan, the producer, makes music with both of them and he knew they were the guys to call to round out the band. They really serve the songs in the best way.

The song is taken from the album, Secretear – out on 11th May. What are the themes and stories that we can expect from the record?

Thematically, this is kind of an unconventional love-song album. There are a lot of messages/reminders within the songs to myself, especially in the song, Secret Tears. It’s an album about self-love and, generally, just coming to terms with who you are which we all have to do.

It’s about the journey, not the destination.

It seems, with each release, you are assimilating new elements in your voice/music. Do you think you learn something new with each recording?

Of course, you do. You have to or you’re doing something wrong. Record-making has always fascinated me. There's a fine balance of knowing and not-knowing that must be achieved; a mystery that must be present, followed and honored - as well as a confidence to not second-guess the magic.  There is no one right way and, as an artist, you can only learn by doing observing and listening

With every record made, you come out knowing so much more than you did before, but you also realize how much more there is to learn.

What is Nashville like for a recording artist? How important are the city and its people?

Nashville is a great place for a recording artist. I’m sure wherever you are standing in the city there are a dozen studios a stone’s throw from where you stand. Some of the most incredible musicians live here and, whatever kind of record you are trying to make; you can find someone to help you make it. I get called in to go do backup vocals on records all the time.

The city is full of the music business as well. Everyone is hustling. I love that vibe: people that work on their craft and where music is genuinely their career. Of course, there is a dark side to that: people get caught up in the game, the ‘hit-game’; there are slime-balls but, generally in my genre, it’s about making art and not about how many Facebook likes one has.

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

The Beatles - ‘The White Album’

The Beatles were my way into Rock ‘n’ Roll - and this record lets you know you could try anything you want, experiment; challenge the listener. I love how this record broke the mould in many ways. I reference many drums sounds on this record and my favourite Beatles song, Happiness Is a Warm Gun, is on it.

Daniel Lanois - Belladonna

Lanois is my favorite guitar player and one of my favorite producers. This is my way into Instrumental music, which I love. Words can be limiting - while one’s not limited on a steel guitar; it can limitlessly emote.

Patti Smith – Easter

Patti is a goddess. She is the ultimate Rock ‘n’ Roll poet. Everything she does is the most inspiring. This was the first album I heard of hers and it knocked me out - and it continues to. Whenever I get down about the business or can’t find the muse, I think: ‘What would Patti do?’

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?

Just got off a two-month cross-country U.S. tour with Buddy Guy and Doyle Bramhall II. Gonna be home for a while - but many shows are getting lined up.

Will you come to the U.K. and play this year?

I sure hope so! Just need the right person to bring us over. I came over many times with my old band, Twilight Hotel, and toured ALL over the U.K. I can’t wait!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope to write the next album. Get better at guitar and stay on the road and play many, many shows.

It’s really quite simple for me. I also hope to record some cover songs and release them on 45s.

 PHOTO CREDIT: @chrisphelps

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

My current favorite memory only happened a couple of weeks ago…

Drinking fine Cognac with Buddy Guy in his dressing room while we listened to him telling stories about all the people he’s worked with. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do your own thing and don’t worry about what anyone else is doing. 

Find what sets you apart and embrace it.

PATIENCE is necessary.

No two people have the same path.

The work is the reward.

If you want to do something else and can, go do it. Art as a career is ugly, unforgiving and the hardest. BUT; if it’s all you can do, do it.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Deap Vally

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m really into Jonathan Wilson, HAIM; Link Wray and Deap Vally currently - but they aren’t new.

Carl Anderson, Erin Rae and The Texas Gentlemen are some fine musician peers.

IN THIS PHOTO: Erin Rae

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I get some, but not much. My husband and I love to venture out to a couple of our favorite and chill for a couple of days. Those being the Belmont Hotel in Dallas, TX and the El Rey in Sante Fe, New Mexico. There’s something about the right hotel vibe that gives me permission to really chill.

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).

This tune has been on repeat a lot lately…

The War on Drugs - Pain

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 Follow Brandy Zdan

 Official:

http://website-www.brandyzdan.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/brandyzdan

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/brandyzdan/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/brandyzdanmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3IbpBuf1QrkXMYmAyfhepe

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/brandyzdan

COLOUR PHOTOS:

Alysse Gafkjen Photography

INTERVIEW: Siv Jakobsen

INTERVIEW:

 PHOTO CREDIT: Jørgen Nordby 

Siv Jakobsen

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HER debut album…

The Nordic Mellow was released last year and picked up award nominations and success. I have been talking to Siv Jakobsen about her upcoming live album (out on 27th April) that was recorded in Rockefeller in Oslo – her beautiful hometown. She discusses what songs were included; why she decided to cover Dolly Parton’s Jolene and what comes next for her – she reveals what her touring plans are.

I ask Jakobsen how she has progressed as an artist and what music compels her; new artists that inspire her right now; the advice she would give to new artists of the moment – and, what the scene is like in Oslo right now.

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

Great, thanks! Just getting out of a short Easter holiday and preparing to release the live album soon.

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

My name is Siv Jakobsen and I write, release and perform songs that are often said to be melancholic and acoustic.

Your debut album, The Nordic Mellow, was released last It has been nominated for Best International Record at this year’s Unsigned Music Awards. How does that make you feel?

Great! It’s a lovely thing to have it be recognised and I love that there is a platform like that for self-released/independent releases.

The album has gained positive reviews and lots of love. Were you expecting it to get such a big response?!

I did hope people would like it of course, but it’s hard to know what to expect - I just hoped it wouldn’t just quietly fade away without anyone noticing. The response has, thankfully, been lovely, so I am very grateful.

I know you’ll be releasing a live album very soon. It was recorded at Rockefeller in Oslo. What was the reason for choosing that location? What compelled you to record a live album?

The Rockefeller show was the only hometown show for The Nordic Mellow release tour, so it felt like a good chance to capture my live show in a (to me) very familiar and lovely atmosphere. I had my whole band with me (string quartet and all) so I couldn’t pass up the chance to have it recorded. It was originally thought to become a short E.P., but the recordings were too good not to release.

Is there a mix of older and newer songs included? Was it hard putting a set-list together?

Yes! There’s a bit of both The Lingering and The Nordic Mellow on there; some familiar arrangements, some with brand new arrangements. It was a lot of fun. As for set-lists; I find them very difficult as I use a lot of different tunings and have to not only think of the flow of the show but, also, what will work, tuning-wise.

So, it’s always a bit hard. Haha.

I know Jolene, your version of it, is included. What is it about Dolly Parton and that song that speaks to you?

Jolene is the sort of song, for me, that really resonates on a deep level. I think a lot of people have had a Jolene in their life, so it feels universal in some way. I love the imagery of the lyric and the pleading tone of the chorus. It’s a masterpiece of a song and I really felt when I created my little version of it; that I was singing about myself.

I only hope I was able to do the song justice.

How important is Oslo to you? Is it a great city to record and write music in?

Oslo is my home so it’s, of course, very important. This is where I live, where I rest and where I write a lot of my songs. I’ve actually never recorded a studio album here, though - only the live-record. But, I assume it would be a great experience to do that here as well...

What sort of music captured you at a young age? Can you recall the first album you ever bought?

At a younger age, my favourite band was the Spice Girls – so, that was probably the first album I bought. Hehe. I was also big into Classical music when I was very, very little. Apparently, I would sit in front of the stereo in our living-room and be totally mesmerised if mom put on Vivaldi or Debussy. I also loved Boney M, as it was my father’s favourite band.

A pretty interesting mix of music, I guess.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up? Will you come to the U.K. and play at any point?

I don’t have any longer tours planned at the moment, as I’m trying to write a new record - but I do have a few shows in the U.K. this summer. I’m playing at St. Pancras Old Church in London on June 4th with a string quartet and at Timber Festival in June.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

The Rockefeller show was a big one for me as a headline gig. Another incredible memory is when I was touring with Bear’s Den. The guys brought me and the other support, Matthew & the Atlas, out at the end of the performances and we all sang Leonard Cohen’s So Long, Marianne together in front of one little mic. It was pure magic every night.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself! Seriously: sincerity is beautiful.

IN THIS PHOTO: Fay Wildhagen

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m usually quite late to ‘discover’ new artists, but here are a few artists that I think are incredible:

Fay Wildhagen; Julien Baker (not sure if she’s new or small, but incredible either way); Liza Anne; Adrianne Lenker (of Big Thief. Her solo stuff is incredible); WILSEN; Bryde.

IN THIS PHOTO: Liza Anne/PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Warren

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I love cooking, running and yoga. I read a lot and have a weakness for crime shows.

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).

Fay Wildhagen - Carry You 

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Follow Siv Jakobsen

 Official:

http://www.sivmusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/sivmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sivjakobsen/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/listentosiv/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0vWslArrZa7drINEUobJZl

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBZSrNgVGvwynCVJ5Z6sLCQ

INTERVIEW: BBXO

INTERVIEW:

BBXO

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BASED over in Berlin…

I have been chatting to BBXO about the scene there and why the city has a pulse like nothing else. Krisz and Musa discuss their track, Hard Road to Travel, and what arrives next for them; how they came together and started making music; whether there will be gigs approaching – they talk about artists and sounds that inspire them.

The guys look at their favourite memories and what they hope to achieve this year; Musa reacts to being compared to The Streets; they talk to me about getting kudos from the likes of Kate Tempest – a fascinating window into a close and electric duo.

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

Krisz: Great. Working on a new track/editing our new video for Firestorm.

Musa: Good, thanks. A lot colder and wetter than the one Krisz has had; he has been working in Cancun while I have been stuck in Berlin. But I’m not bitter...honest.

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

Krisz: We call the music we are doing ‘Future Blues’: a blend of poetry, spoken word; Rap, Soul; Dancehall, Trap; Grime and Pop.

Musa: I write and perform (most of) the lyrics, with help on the choruses from Krisz and a couple of other excellent writers. I’m also a journalist writing about politics, society and football - and that comes through in many of my lyrics (we haven’t done a song about football yet, though). Krisz; he makes the beats.

How did you come to form BBXO? Musa. Did you know about Krisz Kreuzer from the Brixtonboogie movement?

I actually got to know his work through listening to a range of projects on his site and I remember thinking: ‘Damn; this guy can produce anything’. He could make any range of sounds and that’s what I first found most appealing about his work - the open-mindedness of his work. To me, that’s a true artist.

I believe Berlin is where the meeting happened? How long were you in Berlin before BBXO sprung to life? What is the ethos and philosophy you both carry?

I had been in Berlin about a year-and-a-half by then and, so, I think I had adjusted to life in Germany and, more particularly, to the city. At the risk of sounding cheesy - I can almost imagine my friends beginning to tease me when they read this - I would say that my ethos is: make the boldest and most passionate work you can and, somehow, just keep going; because your best work and your best moments are still ahead of you…

What is Berlin like to record and work in? How important is the city and its people?

It’s an incredible city.

Berlin isn’t like New York or Shanghai: those cities are immediately overwhelming. Berlin creeps up on you. It goes from slow and sleepy to full-on hedonism in a split-second. That’s what makes Berlin unique, I think: it has a change in tempo unlike anywhere else. That’s great for an artist, because it means you have both the peacefulness in which to create and the endless nights into which you can escape.

Berliners are a tough people - and proudly so. But, if you can get past their initial wariness; you’ll find them to be among the most loyal and open-hearted people you’ve ever met. That’s if you meet the nice ones. Haha.

Hard Road to Travel is your new release. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

Musa: The song is about two things, really. First; it’s about persevering through struggle, which is something to which we can all relate. Secondly; it’s the story of my family, who fled Uganda in the 1970s and 1980s when the country was in a state of conflict. It’s a song that might seem topical now, with the exodus of refugees from places like Syria and Myanmar; but, in truth and tragically, the story of refugees is as old as time - so, the song tries to put that journey in a positive light.

Is there going to be more material later in the year? What are you guys working on?

Krisz: First; we are aiming to get our E.P. done and released by end of May, with an album ready at end of this year. Secondly; we will work with a live promoter to play live.

Continuing writing and producing more tracks.

Musa: Right now, I am working on the lyrics for two new songs, which are both about half-done, and thinking of ideas for a couple of others. Looking at the world at the moment, we are not exactly short of topics.

Kate Tempest and Ed Sheeran are among the artists who have shown love for Musa and BBXO. What is it like having that sort of kudos and backing?!

It means a huge amount because the respect of your fellow artists is something really special.

We actually came through the poetry and music scenes at a similar time and, even then, the work they were doing was astonishing. I have seen Ed perform a cappella and without a mic to Madison Square Garden - and his voice travelled all the way to the back of the arena. I have seen Kate reduce huge crowds to a state of silent awe with the power of her words.

For people like that to tell you that you are on the right track is very affirming.

Which artists did you both grow up listening to? How early did music arrive in your lives?

Krisz:  I grew up with Blues, Reggae and Dub; Hip-Hop and Electro. To name a few from all genres:

- Blues artists like John Lee Hooker, the Chess artists like Muddy Waters or Howlin` Wolf.

- Reggae: Roots artists from Studio One; Burning Spear, Lee Perry and, of course, Bob Marley.

- Dancehall: Shabba Ranks, Capleton; Bounty Killer and Super Cat.

- Hip-Hop artists from the beginning like Curtis Blow or Grandmaster Flash; EPMD, Eric B. & Rakim; Beastie Boys, Common; Jay-Z, Kanye West and Kendrick Lamar,

Musa: Confession...when Prince died, I burst into tears and then I realised why: because my aunt had played Sign O’ the Times whenever I was at her house out of her incredible Bang and Olufsen sound-system (this was in the early-to-mid-eighties and she still has it, in great condition). Then, I got into Young MC, Positive K; Tracy Chapman and Arrested Development in my early-teens; then, it was Wu-Tang, Curtis Mayfield; Nirvana, U2; Outkast, The Fugees; Jay-Z, Biggie; Lauryn Hill, Daft Punk and The Roots; along with some Eminem (eek, given some of the stuff he said) and, from my early-twenties onwards; I have been listening to everything. I mean…everything...

Björk, Bloc Party; Metronomy, The Kooks; The Strokes, Arctic Monkeys; Seu Jorge, Janis Joplin; Mount Kimbie, Martyn; NoLay, Kendrick Lamar; JME, Flying Lotus; Aretha Franklin, Daedelus; Janelle Monáe; Ryuichi Sakamoto; Eska, Tawiah; Skrillex, Herbie Hancock...I mean, I could go on for hours…I love music; all of it.

PHOTO CREDIT: Eduardo Mattos

Musa. You have been compared to the likes of The Streets. The world needs a street-poet like that! Do you think there is a big gap in the market for poets who can reflect the needs of the people – and articulate the sounds of the streets?!

Ha, well; it’s to know people think there’s a need for more poets: we often divide opinion. (Maybe that’s our job.) I think that poets, whoever they are - be that Salena Godden or Kendrick Lamar, Inua Ellams; Saul Williams, Bridget Minamore or Awate - have a particular skill, if they are good enough: they can distil a range of emotions into just a few words.

I think that has tremendous power - just look at the amazing advocacy that young people are doing for Black Lives Matter and after the Parkland shootings. I think there is always, always room for people like that - and I want to make my own contribution to social progress too. I would love to be able to look back and say: “We captured the mood for some people, and we did it in an uplifting way”.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Krisz: To reach a good coverage of people who like what we are doing; to play more live. I’m looking forward to collaborating with an artist we'd like to work with.

Musa: To do some incredible gigs in different parts of Europe, to have people write to us and say that we made work that moved them and inspired them.

Have you each got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Krisz: A mind-blowing event was the Love Parade in Berlin beginning of the ‘90s when 500k people were dancing in the streets to Electro and Techno music. This music was new at that time.

Musa: Playing a gig at CAMP in 2011, with a previous group of mine. We performed a song called Love Against Homophobia at a time when the Ugandan government was being especially hateful towards gay people - and the response to the tune when we finished it was amazing. We sent the live recording to John Kennedy, who was guest-hosting Mary Anne Hobbs’ show that week and he played it and made it his tune of the day.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Krisz: You mean, us? (Smiles). Ok - just kidding. I would say just do what you want. No boundaries. Doesn’t matter what people might say and think. Give a f**k. Just do it.

Musa: What Krisz said, a thousand times…

IN THIS PHOTO: Otis Mensah

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Musa: Otis Mensah. Imagine a rapper who is half-Speech from Arrested Development, half-Homeboy Sandman and that’s Otis.

Krisz: Neo-Classical pianist by the name of Gunnarsson.

Do you both get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

We do get away from music doing other things. If not doing our own music, we produce music for ads and films.

Chilling away from music with football/travelling/being in nature/enjoying good food.

Musa: Ha. I’m pretty much the same as Krisz: watching football, making my way slowly through the restaurants in Berlin; travelling through Europe (Lisbon and Brussels were great recently and, Copenhagen, we have unfinished business).

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).

Krisz: Young Fathers - In My View

Musa: Sir Spyro x Ghetts x London Grammar x Jaykae - Hell to the Liars

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Follow BBXO

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/bbxoofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bbxoofficial/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BBXOofficial/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4pFqpGmsePkCsOjhuDvRa7?si=7zc-Kg5HTqq08fKyCqfieg

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXu3tIA75flXZKpk3Htckog

INTERVIEW: Katie Coleman

INTERVIEW:

Katie Coleman

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HER debut single…

looks at sexism and the way women are perceived in modern society. Katie Coleman discusses her new track, Not Your Pin Up Girl, and what we can expect from her next. I learn when music came into her life and an album that is especially important; what dates she has coming up – what it was like shooting her new music video in the streets of Manchester.

Coleman discusses her hometown of Darlington; what advice she would give to new artists; what she hopes to achieve this year; whether she gets time to relax away from the music industry – she ends the piece with a rather good song suggestion.

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

Hey! I’ve been great, thank you! 

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

In-your-face, energetic and honest...

Tell me about Not Your Pin Up Girl and the story behind the song… 

The idea sprung to mind after I saw a silly quote or a meme on Instagram, actually. I was on my way to a writing session and, for some reason, it stuck with me. It was along the lines of: ‘When someone asks you what are you getting so dressed up for…’. Like; do I need a reason?! I’ve had that said to me many times! As if I’m doing it for anyone else. I just needed to write how that made me feel - and tha represented me and other girls like me. It just stands up to that way of thinking.

You should be able to dress, act and be whoever you want to be without anyone judging you! Man or woman.

Given the rise of sexism and the campaigns battling it – was it vital, for the debut single, to come in with something meaningful and urgent?!

Honestly; it all kind of came at the right time - and I couldn’t be happier. I’m all for the women’s rights movements and the campaigns. 2018 is women’s year, and so, why not get in on that! It’s all for the right cause and, I think, Not Your Pin Up Girl really represents exactly what us girls should be standing up for. 

Have you faced any hurdles and sexism so far in music? What do you think of the situation out there?

No question about it, of course.

I’m a young woman in an absolutely male-dominated industry. I would think all women have faced some situations they just deal with. It’s a huge shame, but the best way to tackle is as women to pull each other up together. Literally, us girls should have each other in sessions, plus it would be so much more fun!

I’ve, literally, only worked with less than a handful of female producers and that’s the worst thing - is that there are so many women doing what the men are doing; its just they are not getting heard. 

The song also addresses expectations placed on young women. I know a lot of people will relate to the song and take strength from it. Does that possibility give you heart?

Yes, because it’s about time young women feel encouraged and they should feel strong in this day and age! Hopefully, they can relate and take away whatever they need to get through the daily struggles. 

I believe the video was shot in the streets surrounded by Manchester’s G.A.Y. What was that like to shoot?!

It was, honestly, one of the best days! I worked with the amazing Sitcom Soldiers. They really just got it straight away what I was going for. Strong and simple. So, when they suggested we shoot in Manchester, I was so down for that (being a northerner myself). I had my friends involved and my mum was there - and I just wanted it to be fun and for everyone to feel included.

I’d like for everyone who sees the video to get the feelgood vibes. That’s, essentially, what inspired the video: my friends, family and my gay friends; young girls and guys to feel like they can relate and be fearless after watching it too!

It was a great day - and ended with lots of Prosecco!

Will there be more material coming soon?

Yes, of course. But, honestly; I just want to get back to writing some more, brand-new material…and work with some new writers and producers! 

Darlington is where you were raised. What is the area like for music and new sounds? 

Darlington is only a small town, so there’s not a massive variety of genres. But, it does have a great live scene: you can always count on a great live music night!

How important is the area to you rereads your songwriting? 

It’s where I grew up and it’s my hometown. It’s what you would call a ‘typical northern town’. You know; a close community, and I think that makes you more down-to-earth - not big egos - and that relatable attitude is what I take to my writing. 

Which artists did you grow up listening to? Did music arrive in your life early?

I grew up listening to a lot of my dad’s old collection of Northern Soul, Blues and stuff. So; I loved the big female singers like Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight. But, the album I got into as a young girl was actually Stripped by Christina Aguilera I loved it. All of this started when I first realised I wanted to sing. I was seven when I performed in front of my school and, from that, I knew that’s all I wanted to do. I even joined the orchestra playing the flute! Ha. Then the guitar came and that was it. I wrote my first song at nine. It’s cringe-worthy now.

At fourteen, I was already gigging around little pubs and clubs around the North East and, even from that, I knew I’d do this for a very long time! 

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

Eventually, yes! Can’t wait to go on a tour. But, right now, my next gig will be The Great Escape festival. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’d love for a lot more people to hear my music and to enjoy it - and, really just be happy and live in every single moment of the day!

PHOTO CREDIT: @gwardxo

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Always be honest with yourself when working on the music. Work out exactly what it is you’re going for and run with it! Don’t hold back. I have to say to myself all the time!

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Yes. I might not be amazing at it but, I love dancing! I know it’s not the usual way to unwind but I love to go to Brazilian Samba classes! It’s so fun and you think about nothing else…just the beat and the dance and, then after that, a cheeky glass of red wine!  

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).

Hurtin’ Me - Stefflon Don (ft. French Montana)! Still can’t get enough of this. I love her at the moment! 

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Follow Katie Coleman

 Official:

http://www.katiecolemanofficial.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Katie_Coleman

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/KatieColemanOfficial/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/KatieColemanOfficial/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/55oQc2N7Exqb9w9Ya0HhIT

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Alex Lleo

INTERVIEW:

Alex Lleo

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HE is one of those songwriters…

who is pure and determined. Alex Lleo puts his all into the music and follows its every move. I have been speaking with him about touring the South West; what the tale behind the song, No Way Back, is – he provides details about his upcoming E.P.

Lleo tells me about his plans going forward; why he recorded his latest E.P. in a unique way; what he does when he is not recording music; a new artist we need to keep a watch out for – ending the interview with a song I am now a big fan of!

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

Hey! Busy, but good, thanks! Trying to squeeze in some rehearsal time for my tour next week whilst tracking for the next E.P.

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

Well. I guess, fundamentally, I write songs and sing them. Haha!

But; I think a lot of artists are hesitant to put themselves in that ‘singer-songwriter’ bracket. I like to incorporate various sounds and melodies throughout a song’s duration. I’d like to think that the music allows the listener to delve into a deeper state of mind; whether that be a happy or more reflective place. 

No Way Back is your current single. Can you tell me the origin of the song and what inspired it?

Haha. Well I wrote the song with a kinda tongue-in-cheek feel whilst working merch. at Isle of Wight Festival a few years back. At its core; it’s a song about chance encounters and the kinda things people do when their daily routines are on hold for a few days.

It is the second single from your debut E.P., Park Studios, JQ. What was the reason behind recording the music in a single take?! Did you want the music to have that live sound?

Yeah. That was exactly the intention with this project. I knew we’d have to sacrifice a few elements you come to expect with a full production but, I think we made up for it within the charm of spontaneity.

Which artists would you count as influences? Did you experience music a lot when growing up?

Yeah, loads. My parents were never musical but made up for it by having great ears. Dad was big on Motown and all the '70s Folk-Rock stuff such as Paul Simon and Fleetwood Mac: all you’d need to know about great songs construction!

How important are Worcestershire’s Lickey Hills and its diverse scenery to your songwriting? Does that vista give you a closer affection for the natural world?

I think, because I grew up here, I do take it for granted sometimes. It’s only when I think about the years spent exploring as kids that I realise the importance it’s had on my character. Nature, for however cliché it is, will always be a huge influence on me. It’s the biggest grounder to us all.

I know you are playing gigs in the South West. Is that a part of the country you have an affection for? Which dates are you most looking forward to?

I think anyone that’s ever visited the S.W. struggles not to fall in love with the place. What’s not to love about those coastlines?! I’m looking forward to every single one. Tours are usually filled with service station sarnies and rainy drives around the M25.

Let’s just say, I’ve got my wetsuit packed!

You are playing St Pancras Old Church on 2nd May. You looking forward to that one?!

Can’t wait! It’s such an historic venue. Really looking forward to the rare chance of playing with this six-piece!

How did you meet the band you play with? What is it like working on the road with them?

Well. At the core there’s myself, James (Bass) and Tom (drums). James and I go way back to college; he’s my producer and the guy I flesh the sounds out with once the song is there. Tom and I met through a friend on the gigging scene and I’ve known Lydia for many years. The string and horn guys were recommendations from Ali - Park Studios’ owner. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

New songs that, we hope, will be our vehicle to new places; so that we can play to new faces (smiles).

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I did love the early days. Playing with my high-school mates; we’d offer to play people’s house-parties which, as you can imagine, was a lot of fun. Oh…and waaay loud! Good times.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t rush. It takes a lot of time and dedication to achieve a product that’ll please more than just your gran. (Even if she has an incredible ear!). Seriously, though; if you’re hunting for a career, your attention has to be on material and you need a good understanding of how the industry now discovers new music. Don’t just post to Facebook: learn how to utilise these tools to cut through the noise. 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

If you want something to hit the feels, you can’t go wrong with Leif Vollebekk’s new album, Twin Solitude. It’s a late-nigh-stroll-kinda-album.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Anything outdoors-related. The cities are great and they serve a real purpose for the music world but, when I get the chance; it’s so good to get off the beaten track and do something that forces you to focus on the moment. It’s good for the soul.

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).

No Wrong - Bahamas

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Follow Alex Lleo 

Official:

http://alexlleo.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/alexlleomusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/alexlleo/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/alexlleomusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6TlDdiCdFHSD3BAA7xKoFN

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Bumpus

INTERVIEW:

Bumpus

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THIS seems like a great day…

to push Bumpus out into the world! With their awesome E.P., Way Down Deep, unshackled; I have been talking with the Chicago-based band about the songs and how it came together; if there is a cut from the E.P. that stands out – I wondered how the band got together.

I ask the guys about Chicago’s music scene and what they have planned regarding touring; if they will shoot over to the U.K.; which new artists they recommend we check out; what music they grew up around – they provide useful advice to new songwriters coming through.

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

Great. Shooting music videos in an old church with a secret bowling alley in the basement.

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

We’re Bumpus. Nine people. One with accompanying tiny humans. Some with dogs. Lots of Funk.

Way Down Deep, your new E.P., is out. Can you reveal the themes/inspirations that go into the songs?

We started writing work for this album as a side project called Dance Floor Plans. But, in the middle of the writing process, James (bandleader and lead singer at the time) got nodes and the band took a break. When we got back together, we started shifting the focus to Tina and things just took off from there.

What was it like recording the songs? Is the studio somewhere you all like being?

It was pretty spread out, time-wise. Half of the songs were done in a studio that specializes in vintage recording techniques so, for those; everything was done live with no overdubs and no studio magic. The sounds we heard recording is exactly what we heard at the mix.

We spent more time on the other half of the songs in a more traditional studio situation. I think our favourite time in the studio is the editing phase. Pulling things in and out. Trying something in a tiny section of a song.

Is there a cut from the E.P. that, you think, stands out from the pack?

We really like Anything (which Tina wrote).

Tina: I taught myself how to play guitar. I am not great, yet, but I have a great ear. I was teaching myself to play Dear Mr. Fantasy by Traffic and I had one too many notes (laughs). I wound up writing this hypnotic little ditty which is about a woman's affirmation after looking back on her life at that point and realizing that she didn’t have to be like everyone else - that being herself is just fine.

How did Bumpus get together? How has the band changed over time?

Bumpus has really been three bands, but our origins are as early as the mid-nineties. We had a seven-year run with our original line-up, which featured singer-songwriter, Rachael Yamagata. We were all completely self-taught, but that worked out because we played about four shows a week for five years straight.

At that time, we had three singers, including an M.C. The music was super-diverse, but you probably wouldn’t know it was the same band from one song to the next. Our middle period kept most of our original members, but added a keyboardist, three horns and a cavalcade of backup singers.

The end result was our most ‘studio’ (studio) album, All the People. Probably 500-1000 shows played in that era. Our current group features extremely talented musicians from DePaul and Berkley and, of course, Ms. Tina Howell.

Chicago plays an important role in your music. How much of the city and its history do you bring to your material?!

I think we just bring the history of our experiences more than the city. There’s a grit to Chicago that comes through in our music. However, I think we have a love/hate relationship with Chicago...

It’s an amazing city, but it’s not generally supportive of artists. Gentrification is a huge thing. The clubs are fewer than they used to be. Most of the neighbourhood festivals have moved away from original music in favor of cover bands.

What sort of music did you all grow up around?

We all grew up around tons of music, of course…

James: My dad was a D.J. and program director for WBBM FM in the '70s, when they played Joni Mitchell next to James Brown next to Led Zeppelin. As a result, we had stacks and stacks of promo records - and my dad was smart enough to put them right down on the ground where I could discover them.

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?

All over the Midwest for now. Maybe a little farther in the fall.

Can we expect to see you guys play over in the U.K. this year?

Possibly the fall. Working on it!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

More awareness for our group and really just bringing good times to people through our performances. We set our shows up for people to dance.

Have you each got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Favorite memory…

Being on stage with Maceo Parker (James Brown’s sax player) singing Gimmie Some More and Shake Everything You Got.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Practice, practice, practice your craft. All the time. Your bands and situations may change, but you must always rely on your core skills. Luck favors the prepared.

IN THIS PHOTO: Bonzo Squad

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Well. Bonzo Squad, PJ Morton; Naughty Professor...

and Anderson .Paak - if you don’t know him already.

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).

PJ Morton – Sticking to My Guns

Vulfpeck – Daddy, He Got a Tesla

Am I Wrong – Anderson.Paak (ft. ScHoolboy)

Warrior – Chloe x Halle

My Song 5 – HAIM

Woman’s Gotta Have It – Bobby Womack

One Mo’ Gin – D’Angelo

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Follow Bumpus

Official:

https://www.bumpusweb.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/bumpusmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bumpusmusic/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/bumpusmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4e1og7UROxzSrxTgyQPR4l

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/bumpus-music

INTERVIEW: Hildur

INTERVIEW:

Hildur

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THOSE who truly love their music…

like to go deeper and seek out artists who do things differently. Hildur talks about her home of Iceland and her latest track, Water (FAMILY_TIME Remix). I ask her whether there is more music; the artists who have inspired her – and, whether the talented songwriter is coming over to the U.K. to perform.

I was curious to learn about Hildur’s path into music and how her career has developed; what she does away from music; what she hopes to get out of the rest of this year; a new artist we need to keep our eyes open for – completing the interview with a rather good song choice...

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

Hey there! I'm super. I'm actually sitting on a plane back to Iceland. I just spent the last five days in Norway writing and recording new music - so life feels good right now.

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

Yeah, so. I'm Hildur. I’m a songwriter, singer and a producer from Iceland. I started out as a cellist doing Classical stuff, but singing and songwriting have always been a big part of me - and I am fascinated with Pop music in general and what makes a melody catchy, so, I started making pop a few years ago. I do Electronic-Pop with quirky vibes. I have a bit of an Icelandic accent, maybe; I don't know. But; my songs are, mostly, pure fun or sad.

Because; that's how life is.

Water (FAMILY_TIME Remix) is your latest track. What can you tell me about the song? How did that remix come about?

Yeah. So. I have a special connection to this song. It's one of my favorite songs (that I have written) so I thought it deserved a little special something. So, I teamed up with this cool Swedish producer, FAMILY_TIME, and got him to do his spin on it. It's a totally different vibe: more upbeat but it's like double the fun now. So, you can basically listen to either a happy version of this song or the melancholic original. No need to change your mood!

Is there going to be a video or promotional event for the song?

Yes. I'm releasing an acoustic, live version for Water that we filmed for this. It's a special and emotional performance and it's got a cello. Everyone loves cellos.

The original version if from the E.P., Heart to Heart. What was the reason for singling the song for treatment? Have you been pleased by the album’s reception?

I feel like it was like a hidden gem on the E.P. - as it was the last song and I thought it deserved something extra. People really react to that song when I perform it live. I've often had people shed tears and come tell me how this song touched them. That's the most powerful feedback a musician can get. It makes you humble to know your art can affect people in that way.

I'm very happy with the E.P. as a whole and the feedback has been great - so, that makes me even more eager to release new songs. 

What have you got planned in terms of future material? Are you working on other stuff at the moment?

Yeah. The last few weeks have been all about new stuff. I'm still figuring out if there will be an E.P. or an L.P. or bunch of singles - but they are coming soon, no matter which form it will be.

Which musicians influenced you to take up music? Who are your childhood heroes?

My fellow Icelander, Björk, has to be the biggest one.

She is such a great role model as a powerful female force that is ‘everything’ in her own music and artistic direction. She was the musical hero in our country and I just remember being so intrigued by her songs. I think I was around eight when I heard Homogenic - and Jóga was a song that immediately grabbed me.

I remember being so struck with how many feelings music could have - and, then, I tried to create my own emotional dance to it. It involved a lot of rolling around on the floor. Must have been a sight!

You are an Icelandic artist. Is there a big music scene in Iceland right now?! What is the country like in terms of styles and promising artists?

I absolutely love the Icelandic music scene. It's unreal how much amazing music we've got coming out of our small country. Right now, Icelandic Hip-Hop is all the rage there and, though I do love it, I think we also have a lot of great artists in many different genres. People are not afraid to stand out. If you are an Icelandic person, you are used to standing out because we are so few and everywhere we go people are interested in our country and think we are ‘different’.

Also, to some extent, it's fairly easier to get heard in Iceland and get chances to play and share your music. I guess that gives more people the confidence to just try. So: do an hour of listening to Icelandic music on Spotify.

You will be surprised.

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

I haven't planned a tour yet as I'm pretty busy with writing these days, but next gig is in Tallinn Music Week in Estonia and then Secret Solstice Festival in Iceland.

Do you get to play in the U.K. at all? Are you a fan of the artists over here?

It's still on my bucket list! I have a huge crush on Brighton, so I want to play there!

Yeah. James Blake and London Grammar are two of my favorite artists. I do love strong Pop ladies like Dua Lipa and Anne-Marie and I'm also really into Stormzy and Years & Years. I do love some of the Pop prince songs from Ed Sheeran.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Release some of my new songs that I'm dying to share with the world. Music is already taking me to so many cool places and I hope there will be more of them in 2018. I hope for some good surprises. I love surprises.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

I have a lot, but one thing that always sticks to me is when I met a couple (from Germany, I think) who told me they had decided to listen to my music when she was giving birth to their baby. That was a surreal compliment.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself, like – really yourself! Trust your gut feeling. It took me quite some time to figure out what kind of music I wanted to make, but I'm happy I waited with releasing stuff until I had found my sound and knew how to portray it. Then, have fun. This experience is too precious to spend on stressing and worrying…

IN THIS PHOTO: Lxandra/PHOTO CREDIT: Iiris Heikka/COVER ART: Fredrika Lindeberg

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yeah. Powerhouse and cool-cat Lxandra from Finland. We met in Hamburg at a writing camp and I was amazed by her voice. She just released a bangin’ single called Dig Deep.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Depends on the days. I'm trying to have at least one ‘music-free’ day a week just to keep my head straight. I go to the swimming pools. Icelandic swimming pools are something else - and a long soak in the hot tub, sauna and cold bath just regenerates you.

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).

Jon Hopkins' new song, Emerald Rush. Recommend blasting this. Feels heavenly

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Follow Hildur

Official:

http://hihildur.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/hihildur

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/hihildur/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/hihildur/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ySCnJCaqVYSeZSELbdx7k

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/hihildur

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIIeswF530FjU0kytkrvUrA

INTERVIEW: Alex Highton

INTERVIEW:

Alex Highton

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HIS third album is out…

and already picking up acclaim and attention! Alex Highton talks about his new L.P. and the song, Love Is Enough. I ask the Liverpudlian songwriter what the city is like right now; how important its legacy is to him; what he has coming up in terms of gig dates – the artists and sounds that have inspired him as a musician and person.

Highton tells me how the changing world impacts him as a songwriter; if there is a treasured memory from music; if there are any new artists we should be investigating – he ends the interview with a rare and brilliant song.

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

I'm great, thanks. I've been writing and making demos in my little studio - that's where I'm happiest. So, all in all, it's been a good week. 

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

I'm a Liverpudlian singer-songwriter with a soft spot for Harry Nilsson.

Love Is Enough is a track that interests me. What, would you say, is the inspiration behind the song?

Well. I was sitting there, staring out the window with a guitar in my hands not thinking about anything much when the words "It's a sea lion, it's the sea..." came into my head. I liked the way the words sounded, but I thought: 'they don't mean anything'...which started me off on this train of thought about how we give our lives meaning.

This all made my head spin a bit; so, I went away, had a cup of tea and then, when I went back into the studio, the words all just tumbled out.

I believe there is footage from Darkest Hour by director Thomas Ralph. The video, in a way, seems to offer guidance and strength in a post-Brexit Britain. Do you think now, more than ever, we need to hold on to one another and find unity?

Yeah. You're probably right. Brexit is the stupidest thing we've done in a long time – and, as a country, we've done some stupid things...

PHOTO CREDIT: Graeme Wilmot

How do you feel the way the world is changing impacts you as a songwriter? Do these uncertain times make you more insular – or do they compel strength and defiance?!

Everything impacts in some way or another. I'm not sure I'm fully conscious of it. I just write what I want; talk about what I want to talk about and see what comes out. On different days, I feel different ways. 

The way the world is going, though; it does feel like everything is turning to sh*t a bit...

Welcome to Happiness, your third album, is out. What sort of themes provoked the songs? How do you think it differs from your previous records?

The album, as a whole, is about searching for happiness I suppose. Years ago, just before I got together with my wife, I remember sitting alone in my flat and wondering whether I was happy. (I wasn't). I decided I was going to stop making stupid decisions and allow myself to be happy. (I am now).

But, in the end, you know; they're just songs. Hopefully, people will enjoy them. This record is different to the others. There's acoustic guitar for a start. I just got bored of writing on it. I could easily have made the same record again but really what would be the point.

The sound is more expansive and, even if, at times, it seems simple; it was proper-complicated to put together. There's a hell of a lot of work gone into it - from me, Jonners Czerwik (who produced it and played on all the tracks); Bear (who had to mix songs that sometimes had one-hundred-plus tracks on them); all the players who gave up their skills and time...it was a massive collaboration really. Much more so than the other albums. 

Woodditton Wives Club was recorded in two weeks, Nobody Knows Anything took two months: this album took TWO YEARS...

​​​​​​​

It seems like you have grown in confidence as a songwriter. Would that be a fair assumption?

Yeah. I think so, maybe. I don't know really. Some days, I think we've made something great and then, the next day, I think it's the worst song ever written and I may as well give up. To be honest; I like being in a place where I don't feel 100% confident about what I'm doing. It's more interesting.

(I just listened to the album for the first time in ages, though, and I'm really happy with the way it turned out...).

I love being in the studio and that feeling of creating something. I just love that. Once it's done, I'm onto the next thing.

Tell me about the artists you count as idols. Which musicians were you raised on?

My dad moved to Italy when I was little and I used to and visit him over the holidays. He had (still has) this incredible collection of vinyl and I would pore over that, finding all kinds of weird and wonderful stuff. On any given day, I could be listening to Talking Heads, The Stooges; Steely Dan, Jimi Hendrix; David Ackles, Laurie Anderson; Penguin Cafe Orchestra, The Police; Chuck Berry, David Bowie, Pink Floyd; The Incredible String Band, Mahavishnu Orchestra; Getz/Gilberto, Stevie Wonder... It was quite a musical education.

As for my idols...well, there's an awful lot. You can't escape your heritage; so, I'd have to say The Beatles. But, if I think about the stuff that's always on my turntable, I'd have to say Steely Dan, Randy Newman and Harry Nilsson too.

How important is your home of Liverpool? Is the scene as active there as it has ever been? What is it like working and being there?

It is important. There's something in the water I think...

Only the other day, I went to a family party and, after a few drinks, a guitar appeared and everyone was singing. I actually did my first live performance at St Peter's Church in Woolton (where I was born), which is where John Lennon and Paul McCartney met for the first time. I was five, it was a school choir but, you know; you take what you can.

I don't live there anymore - but it's a big part of who I am.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

If I'm able to continue making music, I'm happy. I'd also like Everton to win the Premier League. There’s a good chance of the former - and no chance of the latter.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

There was a gig I played at Norderzon Festival in the Netherlands. I'd decided I wasn't playing live anymore and this was to be my last show. The stage was way off to the side and I was the only act playing on it that night. Two minutes before I got onstage, there were about three people in the audience.

I looked over at my wife and said "Let's get this over with" but, as I got on the stage, all these people starting appearing. I ended up playing to a few hundred and they were singing along to the songs. That was nice.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do it because you love it - and don't worry about what anyone thinks.

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

Probably nowhere...unless someone offers me an insane amount of money.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Last Dinosaur/PHOTO CREDIT: Jeff Goldberg

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yeah. The Last Dinosaur who has just brought out a very highly acclaimed album called The Nothing; Mattis Nikolai Myrland, who is a fantastic songwriter from Norway, and Tall Tree 6ft Man (Jonathan Czerwik, who produced my album) has an album coming out that I've heard some of and it's incredible.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Football (what I lack in ability, I make up for in enthusiasm) and alcohol. Mainly, though, it's music, music, music...

PHOTO CREDIT: Richard Lahuis

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).

How about Rotifer's I Just Couldn't Eat As Much (As I'd Like To Throw Up). He's one of the best lyricists writing in English today (and he's Austrian!)......

____________

Follow Alex Highton

Official:

https://bbislandmusic.com/alex-highton

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/alexhighton

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/alexhightonmusic/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/alexhightonmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7dWMj3ujp1Y7bg2tTb7nNq

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/alexhightonmusic

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Emma Taylor

INTERVIEW:

Emma Taylor

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I have been getting to know…

Emma Taylor and what influenced her current track, My Dear. The New York-based songwriter discusses her plans for new music and why she labels her sounds as ‘sad girl music’; how she has developed in her career; what tour dates are coming up – whether she will come to the U.K.

Taylor talks about her influences and the music she grew up around; how she spends time away from music; what advice she would give to new songwriters – Taylor recommends a great new artist we should know more about.

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

Hey! I’m great, thanks. My week has been pretty good - just been praying for some sunshine here in N.Y.C.

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

I’m Emma Taylor. I’m a twenty-year-old singer-songwriter from L.A., currently living in N.Y. I write sad songs that make people feel things - and I try to create a blend of melodic and lyrical unification to create a musical journey - while paying homage to the great singer-songwriters of the '70s and '80s. I hope you’ll take this journey with me!

My Dear is your new track. What is the story behind it?

I was in London this past year for a few months and was in a very transitional period in all aspects of my life, particularly in my relationship. It led me to become very vulnerable and put me in quite an emotional state, which is perfect for songwriting. The song’s written from the perspective of someone wanting, so badly, for the relationship to work out even though promises had been constantly broken before. It’s about hoping that, maybe, this time things would be different and that, maybe, this would be the time that things change for the better.

I think most people can relate to the topic that love can be greater than struggles if you can find a way to make it work. However, there’s always that worry that things might not ever change, which is discussed throughout the song. I like to call it a heartbreak, motivational song because it really does touch on both pushing through and pulling back. My Dear helped me push past the tough times to get to the great times in my relationship; so I think it has the power to show others that things can turn around.

You label your music ‘sad girl music’. What is the reason behind that?

For a long time, I never knew how to really describe what kind of music I make. I didn’t want to put a label on it - but I also knew I had to give people some sense of my musical identification. I had heard someone use the term ‘sad girl’ and it really stuck with me. I’m not a sad person during my day-to-day life, but writing and playing sad girl music is a deep form of self-expression and acknowledgement of emotions, good or bad.

Do you think there is ignorance and offence aimed at women regards emotion – that they are too emotional, perhaps?!

Totally. I think that, more often than not, women are scrutinized for being overly-emotional or dramatic about feelings, which is not okay. By flipping the coin and making 'sad girl' a positive, empowering thing, I think, is very beautiful and can show everyone that it’s okay to be expressive and honest - and can show the power of music that is universally relatable.

Your E.P., Hazy, and track, New Found Sound, gained huge streaming figures. How did that make you feel?

When I first found out, I hadn’t checked my streams for over a month because I started to go a little crazy constantly checking and wanting more reactions. I got a text congratulating me on the play count and I was so confused - until I checked my streams and saw the massive increase! It was unreal. It’s still so crazy to me waking up every morning and seeing that there’s still so much growth daily on the song.

Having the song do so well overnight was validation more than anything else; that, what I’m doing is attractive to people worldwide and that my music can resonate with a larger audience than what I had expected. It’s been so incredible, especially because I’m an Indie, completely independent artist - and it has given me even more confidence to continue to create the music that moves me the most.

You have an original sound, but I am curious whether there are particular songwriters you take inspiration from...

Thanks! My biggest musical inspiration is, first and foremost, Joni Mitchell.

Growing up; my parents had this singer-songwriter playlist that they played on-repeat, and so, many of her songs from Blue were on that rotation. She’s everything I aspire to be as a songwriter and as an artist: vulnerable, unique with her melodies; a brilliant poet and storyteller. Her talent is unlike anyone else’s I’ve ever heard. Her, along with fellow Laurel Canyon songwriters James Taylor and Carole King, have been inspirational to me because of their exceptional talent in both songwriting and vocals.

There’s a certain sound and writing ability that those '70s singer-songwriters had that made them stand out amongst the crowd. It’s one of my missions to bring that style back and pay homage to those who paved the way for the current singer-songwriter genre.

You are based in New York. How much do you take from the people and sights around you? Why did you relocate from L.A.?

My experiences and surroundings are a huge source of inspiration for me when I’m writing. I’m a pretty observant person, so I like to focus in on aspects of my environment and the people around me - to help me learn more about the area that I’m in. Because of this, moving to New York was a very crucial step in my artistic discovery, because I learned so much about how to handle myself and become more independent. What made me move to New York in the first place was because I began college at NYU. I knew that I was, eventually, going to end up in L.A. - but wanted to experience New York living before I settled into L.A. for good.

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?

I do! I’m playing doing a short set for Vans at their Soho store in New York on April 17. I get back to L.A. in May and am working on setting up some shows there. Keep updated by following my socials and checking my website.

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

I just got back from the U.K. and it was amazing!

The music culture is incredible and I would love to come back and play. I don’t have any plans quite yet - but it’s something I will definitely work on.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I plan on releasing new music, for sure. I’m working on a few singles and will probably just stagger some single releases throughout the year. I’m also exploring music video options and ideas to explore the visual aspect of my music which, I think, could be a very great outlet for further self-expression.

On top of that; I want to gig way more and hopefully tour! Just keep checking back for updates!

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

My favorite moment to date is definitely my E.P. release-party last year. I created the E.P. with my producer and did everything completely independent while entirely funding the whole project; so, spending over a year working on it was a wild experience. The release-show was just the culmination of all the time and effort that I and everyone else who worked on it had put in. It was at a really cool bar in L.A. the night of the actual release date and I filled the space with friends and family. There was, honestly, nothing but love and amazing energy in the room - and I felt completely overjoyed and at peace.

It was kind of like my inauguration into the public music scene, which was exhilarating. I played the entire E.P. live with a band and it was so incredible to have all those who I cared about most hear the songs for the first time. It’s a night for the books and it will always stick in my mind.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

My best advice would be to, just, be your best self and focus on you! It takes time to feel confident in your artistry and you’ll always be building who you are and will constantly be getting better; so, it’s important to follow your path and not let anyone or anything tear you down. It’s so easy to compare yourself or focus on the wrong things but, at the end of the day, if the music’s good and you believe in yourself, everything will fall into place.

IN THIS PHOTO: YEBBA

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m obsessed with YEBBA - and I’ve listened to her for so long. She was just featured on the new Sam Smith record and I’m so happy to see her get the recognition she deserves. I saw her live and she is truly magical.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I really try to find a good balance between music and time to unwind.

It’s so crucial to not let the music overpower my thoughts and life - so that I can still appreciate it and let it have a positive effect on me. I try to take at least one day a week to walk around the city or binge Netflix and just have normal ‘me’ time. I’ve also gotten into photography recently, which I find to be a very incredible form of self-expression.

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).

Joni Mitchell - Both Sides Now (the original version, not the remake)

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Follow Emma Taylor

Official:

https://www.emmataylormusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/emmataylor

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/emmataylormusic/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/emmataylormusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4XmOQJ18YO669d9S7jxPP0?si=eiXjm63GQ0KPjUPXC5DacA

PHOTOS:

Tia Elisabeth Glista

INTERVIEW: Tamtam

INTERVIEW:

Tamtam

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IT has been really interesting…

discovering the details behind Tamtam’s new single, Blue. The Saudi Arabia-raised songwriter talks about moving to the U.S. and how her life changed; whether she has plans to release more material; whether she has some tour plans booked – if the U.K. is going to be part of the agenda.

I discover how important gender-equality is to her and whether more needs to be done in the industry; if Tamtam has a choice memory from her time in music; a few new artists we need to study closely – she ends the interview with a classic Jacko track!

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

I’m great! My week has been really exciting with the release of my new single, Blue, and I was also invited to perform at a music festival in Kuwait called Kuwait Rising. I can’t wait!

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

I’m a singer and songwriter; born and raised in Saudi Arabia. I moved to California for boarding-school when I was fifteen because my parents wanted me to see the world through a different lens, and learn about other people’s ways of life so that I could understand that respecting other beliefs and perspectives of the world is so important.

I’m thankful to have learned that lesson at an early age - and I really love to write about acceptance and humanity in my music.

Tell me more about the song, Blue. What is the tale behind it?

My song, Blue, is about wallowing in the blues of a dissolved relationship, while the other person seems so ‘cool’ about it. I wrote it at a time when I was in a sad place and I felt alone in that place.

I know expression, equality and gender empowerment are important to you and your music. Do you think movements like Me Too and Time’s Up signal a reversal and hopeful future?

Definitely! It’s so important for people to come together to spread positive messages in the world and shed light on the darkness that exists so that they don’t happen again - and so that people are more aware and cautious. It’s an amazing example for others to follow and to see that we can come together for good. I do hope that we always stand up for each other in the good times as well - and that we don’t take those times for granted.

How much of that passion to tackle societal injustices stemmed from your time growing up in Saudi Arabia? What was it like living in the country?

I definitely would not be talking about gender equality and identity if I didn’t experience living on two opposite sides of the world with completely different cultures. Growing up in Saudi Arabia was my ‘normal’ and, if I had grown up in California, that would’ve been my ‘normal’ too.

I would say that is, what I learned the most, that everyone has a different ‘normal’; so we are not here to judge other people’s way of life: we are here to embrace our own way of life and respect the different opinions that exist in the world around us, so that we can co-exist…because we can.

What compelled the move to the U.S.? Was it hard getting a platform and spotlight in Saudi Arabia?!

I came to the U.S. to finish high-school; then I stayed for college, and then, to pursue my music. Actually, a lot of my fan base is from Saudi and the Middle East. I get a lot of comments on my YouTube videos: of girls thanking me for showing them that they can follow their dreams too. That is the biggest gift I can give. If I’m making a difference to one person in the world, then I’m doing my job here - and I’m so thankful and humbled for this opportunity.

Will there be more material coming later this year?

Yes! This year I am focusing on singles - and I’m excited to put out my other tracks soon!

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?

Yes! I am heading to Kuwait on April 27 to perform at Kuwait Rising music festival! Then, I’m heading to London to do a couple of shows at the beginning of May.

Will you come and play the U.K.? Have you ever been over here?

I love London! I want to visit the rest of the U.K. (smiles).

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want my music to reach more people so that I can go on a world tour soon! I want to keep collaborating with amazing artists and keep recording more tunes - because it’s my favorite thing to do.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Yes! I will never forget the first time I ever performed with a microphone in front of an audience. I was thirteen-years-old and I sang Thriller by Michael Jackson. It was a school talent show and I had the best time performing. That night, I decided I was going to pursue music no matter what.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be positive, keep creating no matter what and listen to your gut...ALWAYS!

IN THIS PHOTO: grandson/PHOTO CREDIT: @ashleyosborn 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. Some of my favourite new artists are: grandson, Goody Grace; Makk Mikkael, MorMor - and I’m sure, many more that I can’t remember off the top of my head!

IN THIS PHOTO: MorMor

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

Michael Jackson - Bad

Because it was the first time I ever really felt music - and I got chills listening to the lyrics, the melodies; the production. Everything about this album is amazing.

Britney Spears - …Baby One More Time

Because it was my first cassette tape! I think I was ten-years-old (smiles).

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Californication

Because I can listen to the whole album over and over. I never get bored!

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Yes. I love going to the movies when I have the time! I love eating yummy food too (smiles). It’s nice to treat yourself to some good sushi from time to time, and finally, I love being outdoors and going on long hikes.

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).

I choose: They Don’t Care About Us by Michael Jackson. One of my faves forever!

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Follow Tamtam

Official:

http://tamtamsound.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/tamtam_sound

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/tamtamsound/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/tamtammusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/tamtamsound

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoMxi0h7K5WQIVRyxh2TZXg

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0L8dLj3QGxHctqkzapPfio

INTERVIEW: Mauro

INTERVIEW:

Mauro

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ON the interviewing block today…

is the talented songwriter Mauro. He chats with me about his current track, Dubstep Heart, and why it holds personal weight – and can be appreciated by everyone who listens. The U.S. star discusses his plans for new music and whether we will catch him in the U.K.

I learn how Mauro came into music and how important it is connecting with fans; Mauro tells me how he spends time away from music; whether he takes a lot of inspiration from mainstream arbutus – and, exactly when music came into his life.

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

Sam! I’m excited! I’ve been traveling, composing new music and enjoying life!

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

World! I’m Mauro; the proud owner of the most colorful guitar on the planet, where heartbreaking and hip-shaking songs were born. I’ve had the delight of performing in a tuxedo with sneakers, lying down; in a white bow tie, like an animal, under the rain and, maybe, in a dream you had - all for over sixteen years (so far) and in front of the biggest stars I know: the people.

Dubstep Heart is out. What inspired the song? Is there a story behind it?

The legend tells the story of a broken heart that keeps beating during the darkest times. It’s one of my homages to resilience dedicated to all the survivors of adversity. I had produced different records at that time which were going to be released instead but, suddenly, an interesting series of events took place that deserved an anthem.

I started writing the chorus on a plane after promoting my previous work. Here, we have a heart that is strong yet miserable, poetically embodied in the syncopated beat of Dubstep. Hidden messages are painted within the song as well.

Is there more material coming up? Can you reveal what is coming next?

I recently finished two-hundred new songs. I’m working on this serious selecting because releasing new music is obviously in my plans. So…there’s a lot of music going on and a couple surprises to look forward to. Stay tuned!

Your music has gained support from sources all over the U.S. How important is that backing and kudos?

Fundamental. It’s gratifying to be appreciated by people who value your work objectively. To me, music is a connection and, by connecting with others, I fulfil my purpose in this life.

Do you take a lot of inspiration from the modern mainstream? Which artists strike a chord?

I inspire myself according to my inner revolutions. Last night, I wrote an R&B song all of a sudden and, last week, I started an Alternative composition which ended up as a Rock explosion (and that’s just me). Music comes to me naturally - without having to be influenced by it.

How did music come into your life? Did you grow up around music?

Destiny-meets-work. Music was love at first sight. I’ve been an artist my whole life, permanently creating. At the age of four, I started working in fields such as painting, drawing; acting and writing - and it was a matter of time that I began creating my own music. I wrote my first album when I was ten - and have been performing ever since.

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

Actually, I’m back from tour. I had a wild time! I even had a sick photoshoot at the beach and all. Upcoming dates will be posted soon. I’m happy on the road.

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

I’m crossing my fingers; it would be such a pleasure. I love the U.K.! Shout-out to my U.K. fans!

How important is it connecting with an audience and getting on stage? Is it somewhere you feel ‘free’ and uninhibited?

Essential. I work to tell a story on stage wherever the circumstance may be - and that’s one of the keys towards connecting with people. In my case, it’s a whole mind-soul-body experience to convey the collective of memories attached to the song that live through me. I’m only myself when I’m performing. To me, it’s like being born again. Someone once told me I transform when I’m on stage…I agree.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

In 2018, I’m celebrating sixteen years of music - and this is a year of transition for me. I hope the message in Dubstep Heart continues to resonate within more people. All is leading towards a new era in my career…so; we will definitely meet again at the end of the rainbow!

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Wow. I’ve got a list! Part of me is stuck in my childhood years where I started my music career. It is fascinating for me to realize I was hired at that age to perform music that I wrote and loved. If I had a time machine, I’d go back and perform with that kid.

He seems cooler than me.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be fearless. If your love of music is the reason leading your journey, then nothing and nobody will stop you from doing what you love.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Not at the moment...

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I’m married to my music; in sickness and in health and till death do us part. I do get caught up in writing poetry, painting/drawing; photography and any other artistic activity that reinforces, amplifies or refreshes my view of music from a multitude of innovative perspectives.

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).

Barbra Streisand - Where Is It Written?

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Follow Mauro

 Official:

http://www.mauromuzik.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MAUROMUZIK

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MAUROMUZIC/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/mauro-mu-sic

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Cable Street Collective

INTERVIEW:

 PHOTO CREDIT: Samuel McMahon 

Cable Street Collective

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I love it when an artist puts their everything…

into an interview! Cable Street Collective give me an authoritative and comprehensive look into their world and past; where they plan on heading – I discover the story behind their latest song, Wonderland.

The band talks to me about their upcoming (out on 4th May) E.P., Where Now from Here?, and how they have changed since their inception; the sort of music the members all enjoy; why African sounds are so important; what the choice memories from their careers are – they end the interview with some cracking song selections!

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

Great! We just finished shooting the music video for the second single off the upcoming E.P., So We Go (song). It involved having industrial-strength leaf-blowers fired at our faces, so that they get all distorted and pulled out of shape - and filming the results in slow motion.

Watching your cheeks ripple in the wind at 240-frames-per-second is quite a surreal experience...

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

We’re a London-based Indie band who plays upbeat music with a strong African influence. Tristan (Guitar, Keys) spent his childhood in Swaziland and Malawi and Aaron (Bass) is the son of Greg Kofi Brown - who played bass for the legendary Afrobeat band, Osibisa. So; they both grew up surrounded by those sounds. The rest of the band are big fans of Congolese Soukous and African music more generally; so, that’s one of the biggest influences that creep in when we write.

What can you reveal about Wonderland? What is the song all about?

The song is about relationships and how they can make you feel like you’ve lost control of yourself or your emotions. Not just during that initial honeymoon period but, also, after the relationship fails - when the dream turns nightmarish. It’s quite a bouncy, upbeat tune but Fiona’s lyrics are actually pretty sad; channelling that weary resignation you feel looking back after it’s over.

It is from your upcoming E.P., Where Now from Here? Have the songs – that will appear on the E.P. – been in your minds for a while? Are there common themes that link the songs?

We were playing a version of one of them, Anyway, as early as 2015 but the version we now play sounds quite different. The others are all more recent. They were written between the end of 2016 and last August, when we started recording them. They weren’t necessarily written to be a collection of songs but, when we listened back to them all together, we realised there are definitely common themes.

They deal with the stresses of modern life, the pressures that come with getting older and the ways in which people deal with the increasing realisation that the world isn’t as shiny and wonderful as it might once have seemed.

Despite the fact that the music is generally pretty upbeat, the lyrics touch on some pretty dark topics - emotional breakdowns, the ways in which people self-medicate and the strains that social media puts on people and relationships…

Hence the title, Where Now from Here?

 PHOTO CREDIT: Samuel McMahon

How do you think you have grown and developed since your debut E.P.?

Despite the last answer, we’re not actually old and embittered. Haha. We’d like to think our songwriting has matured, though, and our sound has definitely evolved. The first E.P. was recorded with live drums and more live instruments generally.

Where Now from Here? features programmed beats (admittedly, augmented with live percussion) and far more synths. This is partly as a result of line-up changes, but also, as a result of changing tastes. We were listening to stuff like Sinkane, Rostam Batmanglij and William Onyeabor when recording this - and some of that definitely snuck into the songwriting.

When did Cable Street Collective come together? Did you all have that instant spark when you met?

Ash and Tristan went to secondary-school together and first started making music there (although ‘making music’ is, perhaps, generous - there were some pretty terrible Punk-Rock covers). They met Fiona at university and the three of them used to play open mics – although, she didn’t join the band until later, after a stint living in Australia.

The first iteration of Cable Street Collective featured Tristan’s brother on bass (who helped push the African sounds they had grown up with) and a different vocalist. But, when Fi moved back to the U.K., it was obvious that we’d ask her to join.

Dan Cat (responsible for the drum programming) was a long-standing friend who’d actually produced our first demos. He, Sam and Aaron (both friends-of-friends who we’d met through open mic nights) all came on board in 2016 when we decided to change-up the sound after the departure of our drummer and bassist.

I know your numbers have increased since the start. Why did you decide to expand the ranks?!

We had previously played as a six-piece - but, with live drums rather than electronic beats. The line-up changes were because of changing priorities, really - the bassist and drummer, who we’re still very good mates with, weren’t as up for it as they once were.

Rather than try and replace them in a straight swap; we saw it as an opportunity to switch things up a bit sonically and experiment with new ways of making and playing music.

Do you share musical tastes? Which artists have inspired the music you make?

There are, obviously, a lot of shared musical reference points but everyone has their own influences that they bring to the mix as well. We definitely don’t agree on everything all of the time and sometimes we definitely disagree. Haha.

I guess, inspirations we share, are things like a love of 1970s and 1980s Soukous guitar (Diblo Diabala, who played with Kanda Bongo Man and Loketo, in particular), bands like The Very Best (a Malawian-Swedish duo) and artists like Songhoy Blues and Mbongwana Star.

Then there are points where we differ a bit. Fi’s into Funk and Soul; Sam (who grew up on Shetland and played the fiddle as a kid) likes Celtic Trad-Folk, Ash is a far too into Radiohead; Tristan loves Rancid (who, Ash thinks are rubbish); Dan Cat mixes questionable Disco and Aaron loves Metal and Post-Rock. That’s not to say any of those are bad things but, yeah; we all enjoy an impassioned discussion of different artists’ musical merits.

Thankfully, when we disagree, it never gets too heated.

How important is African music to the band? Do you take a lot of guidance from the sounds of Africa?!

It’s definitely a touchstone and an influence we all share. But, as much as we borrow sounds from that part of the world (the tinkly guitars, an emphasis on rhythm; driving basslines and the love of beats and percussion); we’re still an Indie band channelling those influences into western-style songs. We are (we’d like to think) far too aware of the inappropriateness of cultural appropriation to ever claim to be something that we’re not.

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

We’ll be doing a big E.P. launch-show in London on 18th May, followed by a couple of shows in Sheffield and Leeds - details of which are on our website. We’ll, then, be hitting the festival circuit again this summer. So, yes; we hope to see you in a sunny field or a sweaty venue very soon!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

This release is our main focus for now...

Beyond that, we’d love to spend some time writing new music and just jamming the ideas that have been kicking around, half-formed, for the past few months while we’ve focused on this.

Have you each got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Tristan: There’s loads...but one of my favourites was turning up to this little festival in East Anglia, only to find the backline didn’t include a drum kit. It was a proper hippy-fest; the kind where half the campsite is vans, everyone has a dog on a rope - and the Psytrance Stage and the Main Stage were the same thing...

The sound-man told us to go out the back of the stage, knock on a caravan door and ask for a ‘Dr. Damage’ who, apparently, had a home-made kit he could lend us. Turns out the drums weren’t up to much - but he did have a flask of mushroom tea which he insisted we partake in...

Fiona: It’s either Dave, our old drummer, realising about five minutes before our first set at Secret Garden Party that he’d left his cymbal case propping open a door in London, or me realising about thirty minutes before another set at S.G.P. that we’d left all my gig outfits in Ash’s flat. In both cases, so many people helped out; arriving mid-gig with a borrowed cymbal stand, or piling into my tent with all their festival gear and dressing me far better than I could dress myself!

Ash: We have had some belting gigs at Secret Garden Party. Arguably, my favourite was on an incredibly wet weekend a few years ago. The whole festival was a total mud bath and our bassist (at the time) was on crutches, so dropped out of the gig. Our mate, Alex, was playing a kind of multi-instrumentalist vibe for us at the time, but happens to be more than a little handy on the bass. So, the show went on! We had to practice the songs in half an hour backstage - and on we went.

It was heaving down with rain outside and the Rhumba Rum Bar was packed to the rafters. The place went off and everyone was having a blast. To cap it all off, a guy who had played trumpet with us a couple of times previously turned up (off his bonce I might add) and jammed a track.

There was a kind of spontaneity to the thing. From the ashes of adversity grew one of my favourite-ever gigs.

PHOTO CREDIT: Samuel McMahon

Dan Cat: While I was touring in the Cheshire Catz D.J. duo, we were flown to Avignon in France to play in club carved out of the bottom of a quarry called ‘Le Prive’; which is where Daft Punk first played outside of Paris. A truly humbling experience. After rocking the club, feeling like superstars and storming the decks at the after-party; we were kicked off after fifteen minutes for playing minimal Techno. The after-party crowd wanted Disco. We would have gotten away with if a journalist from DJ Mag hadn’t been with us covering the tour.

Sam: Playing the Royal Concert Hall with Nordic Tone in 2010 was very special. It was a big group project spread across five countries and the near-impossible logistics of getting us all together meant that we knew it would probably be our last gig. It felt as though we really rose to the occasion on the night - and a five-star review in the Scotsman was the perfect end to the story.

Aaron: I’ve got a couple: both relating to Osibisa, actually. As a kid in the early-nineties, I was playing percussion on-stage with Osibisa at an event that that was live on T.V. and Pat Cash (the tennis player) joined in on guitar. Then, later in that decade, Finlay Quaye became good mates with the band. I was always the little kid he'd kick the ball around with. Then, many moons later, he called me up to come play guitar for him.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I’m not sure we’re really in the position to be doling out advice to anyone but I guess, if there’s one thing we’d suggest, it’s to make sure you’re doing it because you enjoy it – ‘it’, being writing, playing live; even the promotional stuff that goes with being in a band. Unless you’re a massive act, the financial rewards aren’t great; so, it’s all about making the experience its own reward.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Too many to mention really, but there’s one band we’ve played alongside since fairly early days that we reckon are always worth checking out, especially live. They’re called Tankus the Henge and they sound very different to us - but they’re great craic. If you ever see them on a festival bill, go watch them. You won’t regret it.

Do you all get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Oh, yep. Aside from Aaron, who’s written for Big Narstie and played with Finlay Quaye and Rita Ora (and a whole bunch of others); none of us are full-time musicians. Ash and Dan both work in tech; Fi is an English tutor (who’s also just co-written her first play - one of the Evening Standard’s ‘must-see shows’ at VAULT Festival no less!); Sam plays in a couple of other originals bands and tutors undergraduate maths and physics on the side (as well as being a s*it-hot percussionist, he’s also a Cambridge-educated astrophysicist!) and Tristan is a journalist at Vice Media.

The good thing about working other jobs is it removes a bit of financial pressure from the band. It also means that, while we work hard at it, music and making it is part of unwinding for all of us. If this turned into a full-time job, I guess we’d probably have to turn to astrophysics, tech; play-writing and journalism to unwind? Haha.

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).

Tristan: I’m loving Rostam’s Bike Dream at the minute. I love the way he’s taken a really poppy melody and subverted it with jarringly loud drums, wonky production and a weird vocal effect.

Ash: My jam of the week has been Sorceress by Jordan Rakei - my favourite album of 2017 and a tune I recently came back to!

Fiona: I still have Hey Now (When I Give You All My Lovin’) by Romare on-repeat. I love it when the brass kicks in.

Dan Cat: I’m digging Soft Hair’s A Goood Sign at the moment - and I found Soft Hair via LA Priest. LA Priest is the Prince of Electronica.

Sam: I Asked by Snarky Puppy (feat. Becca Stevens & Väsen). It’s a live collaboration between three of my all-time favourite acts: Becca Stevens’ unmistakable vocal is perfectly framed by Michael League’s incredible arrangement and touches of otherworldly class from Swedish Folk kings Väsen; culminating with André Ferrari’s towering percussion breakdown over a fifteen-beat cycle.

Aaron: I’ve been listening to Express My Mind by Sharna Bass a lot.

____________

Follow Cable Street Collective

PHOTO CREDIT: Samuel McMahon 

Official:

http://www.cablestreetcollective.co.uk/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cscollective

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/cablestreetcollective

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cablestreetcollective/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/cablestreetcollective/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCddQIVCW7fyvxT2Ww4KHe3g

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5UUEHDzvnBUFJgIzR7maTp

INTERVIEW: Mike Watson

INTERVIEW:

Mike Watson

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2017 must rank pretty high…

in the mind of songwriter Mike Watson. His debut single, Lying for Love, made a huge impact and he embarked on a tour of the U.K. – a whirlwind year that, by the looks of things, he is going to top! Watson chats about his current track, On Fire, and what comes next for him. The Manchester-born artist talks about the music of the city and its influence – how important the people are to his success and drive.

I ask whether we can see Watson tour later this year; the music that matters most to him; whether he gets time to relax away from music; what it was like supporting Maroon 5 – he recommends a great new artist to watch.

__________

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

Hey! It’s been busy with the new single coming out, but the reaction’s been great - so; all is good!

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

Sure. Well. I’m a British singer and songwriter, started out in a band before going solo and here I am now! I grew up in the U.K., the U.S.; Singapore and Thailand, but have finally now settled in London.

 

On Fire is your new single. Is there a story behind the song?

The song is about admitting you’ve found someone and they have a hold over you…and you're not afraid to say it. I'm sure most people can say they've felt that way about someone at some point (not every). 

It is a confident and impassioned song! What was it like putting it together in the studio? Did it go through a lot of changes?

This song, unlike Lying for Love, was more of a journey. Lying for Love took no time at all whereas, with this one, I actually changed melodies and lyrics several times, which is unusual. But, for that reason, I feel a strong sense of ownership towards it and am proud of how it turned out! 

How do you view the success your debut single, Lying for Love? It did fantastic business on Spotify. Does it seem a dream looking back?!

You never know how to predict how a track will be received - especially as it was my debut single. I was confident in the fact I thought we had a strong track that could hopefully strike a chord with people, but I never imagined to get the streaming numbers we have today! It passed 750k on Spotify, which is great…

We just have to follow that success up with On Fire!

Do you feel like you have made leaps in a short time? Are you more confident than when you first started out?

I started out in music young and have learnt a lot from every experience I had; whether it be from good situations or bad. I’ve always been quietly confident, but know how hard I have to work in order to be a success in such a difficult and competitive industry. People may just think I started out in music when Lying for Love came out but, in reality, it’s been years in the making to get me ready.

Manchester is where you were born. Is the city a bit of a hotbed for great music? How important are the people regarding your success?

Being from Manchester, I’m a massive Oasis fan! I think most people are…

The city constantly produces great artists and definitely is a hotbed for music! I’ve a lot of family up there and they’d never let me get too ahead of myself. 

How did music come into your life? Did you grow up around music?

I grew up in a musical family. Both of my grandmas sang in choirs and my dad plays the guitar. I remember him giving me this mini-sized guitar when I was just old enough to hold it and, from there, my musical journey started! Both my parents are massive music fans so, growing up, there was a lot of music in the house…anything from the Eagles to Paul Simon to Santana would be constantly blaring out which, no doubt, wormed its way into my head.

I’m VERY thankful for that!

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

Plans are in the making right now: you’ll have to keep your eyes on my socials for updates (smiles).

Does the fact you have supported the likes of Maroon 5 give you a lot of confidence to get out there and perform your music?!

Definitely. Playing such amazing venues like Wembley and the Manchester Arena etc. to crowds like I did on the Maroon 5 tour gave me huge confidence. You get such a buzz playing to that amount of people. I’ve always said, if you could bottle that feeling up and sell it, you’d make a fortune! To be honest; I much prefer the big venues and actually would say the smaller venues keep me on my toes more! 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope On Fire does as well as the last single online; then the follow-up E.P. (which is all but done) does just as well too! I can’t wait to get back playing live again, so that’s something I’m looking forward to. Especially as I have two new singles to play!  

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Definitely playing the Manchester Arena. I took my younger sister to see Justin Bieber there about five years ago and said, one day, she’d see me there…so; it was nice, a few years on, for me to keep my promise and have her there to see it! 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Practice; don’t take criticism too much to heart and don’t have any regrets. Any time you get the opportunity to showcase your skills, whether in the studio or on stage, DO IT! 

IN THIS PHOTO: Khalid

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m really into Khalid at the moment. He’s really taken off this last year and I’m really excited to see where he goes! 

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I’m very sporty. My other love, away from music, is sport...

Not only is my family musical, but my grandad is a football nut; so that’s rubbed off on me over the years. Whether watching or playing, I’m hooked! When I was born; the first thing in my cot was a football. That says it all really. I play football three times a week and get to the gym pretty much every day. If I miss a few days, I get notoriously grumpy. Haha. 

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).

A track I’m really digging at the moment is Say Something by Justin Timberlake
(ft. Chris Stapleton)! The way their voices blend is genius…it’s not often you get two male artists collaborating together! 

____________

 Follow Mike Watson

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/mikewatsonmusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/mikewatsonofficial/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mikewatsonmusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/michaelwatsonyt/videos

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6z3jjAAUEnLbp5M83p0bVV

INTERVIEW: Jared Lee

INTERVIEW:

Jared Lee

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HE grew up in Boston…

and has risen through the ranks to become one of the most intriguing songwriters and performers in music. Jared Lee tells me about collaborating with other artists and what compelled his track, Professional Lovers; what comes next for him; whether he will come to the U.K. this year – Lee talks about producing and working with some of the world’s biggest D.J.s.

I ask Jared Lee what music he grew up around and what advice he would give to new artists; how his music has developed in the past few years; what it feels like hearing his music played on T.V. shows – the U.S. artist ends the song with a pretty cool song!

__________

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

Things are good. Thanks for asking! I live in L.A. and am spoiled with the best weather most of the time - so, no complaints.

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

Of course. So; my name is Jared Lee. I grew up in Boston and I am a recording artist and, also, I write and produce for many other artists. I love performing but I really enjoy collaborating with other people on their projects as well. I am told I have a decent personality – but, maybe that’s just people being nice…

What can you tell me about the song, Professional Lovers?

I really love the song and am excited for people to hear it. I think it’s a sexy, honest and visual record that describes a really intense physical relationship and unrivalled passion. I was fortunate to work on the song with Mick Schultz (Rihanna, Kelly Clarkson and Jeremih), Mati Moon and Dirk Pate. Right now; my goal is to (just) get people’s ears on it and introduce them to some of my new music.

Will this lead to more material? Might we expect an E.P. later this year?

Definitely. I have a chunk of songs done and also have some features coming out with some of the world’s best D.J.s that I am excited about. To be honest, I am not quite sure if we will keep rolling out singles or package an E.P. – but I am definitely looking forward to releasing more. I’m also going to release an acoustic version of Professional Lovers - just me and the piano.

You have produced and written for some great D.J.s. Do you notice a big difference working with them – as opposed writing/producing your own stuff?

I have really enjoyed getting the opportunity to work in the EDM/D.J. space, as it has challenged me, creatively, and opened me up to a world which I wasn’t really familiar with a few years ago. I have become such a fan of what they do and the art they create. Seeing some of their shows and the way audiences respond to them (particularly Coachella and last year’s EDC) literally blew my mind. In any collaboration, I think it’s important that each artist bring a unique energy and flavor to the record that can result in something fresh and original. 

With my own stuff; I’m selfishly only thinking about how I will sing it, how I will perform it; does it communicate the message the right way etc.? With a D.J. collab; I, of course, have to take the other party into account and work with them to create something that, mutually, satisfies us creatively. There are times that I will just send them a song and they end up recreating the music; other times where they send me a track.

I write the lyrics and melodies to and, in the best cases, we get to be in the room together- that’s my fave.

How did you get into music? When did it all start for you?

I was always performing from a very young age in school groups. My sister and I sang a lot in the car with my parents and I was fortunate to be able to grasp melodies and harmonies at an early age (probably, largely because of that). I was a bad music student because I never listened to instruction. Ha. I did what I felt. 

Not saying that’s the right way to approach it or not. It’s just what worked for me.

What sort of thing were you raised on? Did you listen to a lot of mainstream music – or was it more club/Dance-based music?

I was really into Boyz II Men, Brian Mcknight; James Taylor, Sting, Peabo Bryson and U2 - tried to sing along note-for-note to everything. My parents didn’t push their own musical tastes on me: they let me find the music that moved me.

How, do you think, your music has developed since, say, 2011’s Falling Through Holes? Do you think you are more confident?

I think any artist just wants to evolve and get better. 

I love those songs and am proud of them - but I am in a different mindset. Life happens, relationships come and go; tragedy occurs, amazing things develop - and this all affects the art you create. I think, now, the sound of the music I will release leans a bit less Pop-Rock than my first E.P. and. Maybe a bit more Pop/R&B/Electronic – and, of course, there are Dance records coming out. So, I am excited to perform some of the new records and see where things go next.

Your music has been featured on T.V. shows – and reached a new audience. How important is hearing your music on the screen? How does it make you feel?

It’s an incredible feeling and I'm hoping for more of it. It makes you feel proud and in, I guess, a superficial way a bit validated. But, I just get turned on by the idea that a person far, far away can be watching something you created and it can contribute (hopefully positively) to the overall experience for them. I also really love the way music (my own or not) can affect or enhance a story on screen.

It can evoke very intense emotions and, so, I have so much respect for the supervisors that put this all together and find the right songs for the right films or shows.

Hollywood, California is where you are based. What is the music scene like there right now?

It’s a great place for music and I think, for Pop music, it’s probably the best place you could be in terms of the creative community. That being said; I think there is something here for every genre because it’s the entertainment capital of the world - and people want to be here to be close to that. Almost everyone here has musical needs, and so, the possibility of collaboration is quite high - which is exciting. 

You just have to then find what works for you. There are many great live venues and the city is, of course, oozing with talent - so you never know what you may hear or who you may hear it from. The downtown scene has been expanding a lot as well and many new live music venues have been opening up.

Do you have any gigs lined up? Where are you heading?

Right now, I'm mostly promoting the single - so it’s just a few songs here and there. 

Mostly L.A. and N.Y. but, hopefully, that expands soon.

Can we see you in the U.K. this year at all?

I hope so! I love it there. My mom grew up in London, so I have been many times and love the culture and history. I recently did a quick performance in London but am looking forward to the possibility of some more time there. I think the U.K. breeds some of the best musical talent in the world without question.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I am really excited about Professional Lovers and some of the new songs that will come out as well some of the songs I have been writing for other artists. I am hoping for many more performances and, to honestly, just get better as an artist, performer; writer, producer and person. I’m willing to put in the work and hope I can music makes people feel good...or feel something. 

I also want to learn guitar.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

One is playing a show in Hollywood where Brian Mcknight was eating dinner. I was so nervous but had to try to make an impression. I did a couple originals and a cover of Prince’s Purple Rain and he came up to me after - an incredible moment as he was someone I had listened to endlessly and admired musically growing up. He was very complimentary and, a few months later, I opened a holiday Xmas show for him on the Santa Monica Promenade. He even let me use his keyboard!

I had gone from listening to this guy in my room, trying to sing like him, to using his keyboard and opening his show. It was a cool moment.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Well. I think it’s similar to the advice I try to give myself every day: keep going, keep pushing; don’t stop, don’t stop, don’t stop if you believe in your art. I know that’s cliché, but it’s incredibly easy to be discouraged. Most people won’t respond to you. It’s very hard to get a large audience, but try each day to build it - even if it’s one or two people. Also, surround yourself with people you like to be around; that support you but also challenge you. 

People that are great will make your life better; not only professionally but personally. Do the things that make you happy often. Take creative breaks.

IN THIS PHOTO: Dermot Kennedy

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I love some of the new discovery playlists that the digital platforms like Spotify and Apple have because I get to hear all these new songs I have never heard and end up loving. I have lists of new artists I dig. I get very taken by emotive voices and there is so much great talent out there to be heard. Check out the guy I mention at the bottom but there are, honestly, so many - and in different genres.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Luckily; I’m now in a climate where I can be outside all of the time comfortably. I ‘try’ to work out every day; go hiking or out to the beach (which is near me). I’m a total foodie, so I care a lot about eating - and often. I occasionally knock out a full Netflix series without stopping…just because we all need that sometimes (smiles).

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).

I heard this guy the other day I thought was great. Really expressive voice; Dermot Kennedy - Moments Passed

____________

Follow Jared Lee

Official:

https://www.jaredleemusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/jaredleemusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jaredleemusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jaredleemusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jaredleemusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRWmV9jInq3T47lFlZUYkuw

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7cBPcPEdhDWIoFX6BDvw1b

INTERVIEW: IAKO

INTERVIEW:

 IAKO

___________

EACH time I experience a musician…

who hails from a different part of the world; I am keen to ask how the scene differs there – compared with here in the U.K. Venice-born IAKO has moved to London but tells me how the cities differ; whether there are any performances coming up; how it feels putting out the debut single, Queen of Balance – and, what the story behind it is.

I learn what we can expect from the forthcoming Queen of Balance E.P. and when IAKO decided music is what he was supposed to be doing; if there is a new artist we need to keep our eyes out for; what he has planned for the remainder of this year – the songwriter selects a contemporary banger to end the interview with.

__________

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

It’s been fantastic, thank you! I played a great gig on Monday night; quite a good crowd and it went well, as we were trying out a couple new songs for the first time. Also, the feedback for Queen of Balance has been incredible so far, so I’m super-excited.

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

I’m a twenty-two-year-old singer-songwriter, originally from Venice. I moved to London three years ago to make music and here I am today, trying to get my first record out into the world. I’ve just released my debut single, Queen of Balance; I’ve got another single coming out on the 20th April and an E.P., set out for release at the end of May.

It’s a very exciting time for me because it’s my first release ever.

Queen of Balance is your debut single. What is the tale behind the song? Is it exciting getting that first song out there?!

I went through a terrible period at this time last year which forced me to put music and all projects aside for quite a long time. Towards June, when I was finally getting better; I sat down and decided that I really wanted to express those moments and personal experiences in my music. Queen of Balance is the first song that came out. It’s about a relationship of course, but it’s mainly a reflection on my personality, role and perception of that relationship.

It’s incredibly scary to put out such an intimate song as your first single but, as I said; it’s been well-received by the media so far - so I’m quite excited.

I believe the E.P. of the same name is out soon. How much does transition and the idea of movement and relocation play a role?

I’m a very rational and observant person and I’m constantly striving towards something new and different. This means that, often, I can’t quite relax and enjoy what I’ve achieved because I’m already worrying about the next challenge. In that sense, the idea of movement as a constant drive to adapt to different situations is one of the main themes of the record.

Will there be more singles from the E.P.? Is there a particular song, from the collection, that stands out as being especially personal and striking?

It’s funny, because the next single, Paint, is one of the oldest songs I’ve ever written. I wasn’t really comfortable talking about myself back then, so I used to write little stories which I would then turn into a song. Paint tells the story of a couple who lives in a dystopian future where all the colours are gone; although, it’s not about a personal experience: it’s a very important song to me, as it reminds me of my very early stages in music.

You have Venetian background – based in London now. How do those different worlds and people influence you as a songwriter? Is it very different being in London?

A lot of my writing revolves around the contrast between the two cities. Venice is a very safe and dangerous environment at the same time. You’re surrounded by people you’ve known since you were born, which is really comfortable - but you can easily get stuck into one common mentality and give up your passions because you’re afraid of judgement.

On the other hand; London is incredibly chaotic and lonely but it really allows you to push your artistic vision to the limit. I’ve changed a lot since I moved here and I think London has had a huge impact on me. I’ve grown to be a big fan of such a fast-paced lifestyle; although I come from a completely different background.

Surrounded by history and beauty; was there much time for music living in Venice? Which artists do you remember listening to as a child?

I never really thought music was gonna be my career, despite always being really passionate about it. There’s not much of a music scene in Venice; so I never really thought of being a professional musician/artist in Italy.

My dad is all about the old Blues, so I grew up with B.B. King, John Lee Hooker; Albert King etc. But, he was also into Funk and Disco music. Quite far away from the songs on this record, I know! I can hear more of those influences in some new stuff I’ve been writing recently.

Was there a moment where you knew music was what you were supposed to do? Was it quite scary making that leap?

I went to uni for a while back in Venice. I was studying literature, which is what I thought I would do for my whole life - but the course was not challenging at all. I was studying the same things that I knew since I was fifteen. I remember being so unmotivated and feeling low cause I had no creative ground to experiment with. So that only lasted for a few months.

I was never really scared about the choice in itself; it was way scarier once I actually got to London, cause I was only eighteen and completely on my own.

Are there any tour dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

I’m playing a full band gig on 15th April at Notting Hill Arts Club and then, on 24th May, at The Finsbury. I’m gonna be adding new dates very soon, so keep an eye on my social.

How important is the stage for you? Can you articulate the feeling of being up there, performing to the people?

Because of the intimate nature of my music, I always try to be as genuine as possible on stage. I talk quite a lot in between the songs and I try not to take myself seriously as the songs are already quite intense. This record is all about the atmosphere flow, so you need to be willing to get into a certain mindset to enjoy it. The other night, a guy walked up to me and described my show as ‘educational’.

That made me so proud!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

2018, for me, is the year to really get my name out there as much as possible. I’m building a small team and I’m hoping more and more people are going to get involved. I’m also experimenting with completely new music genres. I don’t want to get stuck or too comfortable on one thing - so, you can expect very different projects coming up in the future.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music so far – the one that sticks in the mind?

I remember playing a house gig back in Venice - it was a tiny living room and too many people turned up; so there was no space left for performing. I ended up sitting down on the floor and holding the piano on my legs, which made the whole atmosphere even more magical as we were all incredibly close to each other.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

For all I can see at this point in my career; you need your own thing. It needs to be genuine. There’s so much music out there right now, that being similar to anyone else will destroy your career in the long-run; although, it may boost your self-esteem temporarily.

I think audiences need personalities to follow rather than just nice and familiar songs. Having said that; I’m a very new artist, too, so I’ll happily listen to any good advice!

IN THIS PHOTO: Sakura/PHOTO CREDIT: Richard Taylor

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friend, Sakura, is doing quite a good job at the moment. She’s had two singles out already - and I think you will hear from her in the future.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I don’t really have much time away from music at the moment. I’ve been working for over a year on this record and I’m still promoting it - so that’s quite a lot of work to do. I also teach piano to kids in a music school; so I, literally, spend most of my days doing music, one way or another.

I do read as much as I can when I have time. That’s what helps me turn my brain off when I need to. I’m really into non-fiction at the moment.

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).

I’ve had this song on repeat for the whole day: Young Fathers – In My View.

I love how the production flows together with the song - and I think some of the rhythmical and melodic motifs in the song are absolutely genius...

____________

 Follow IAKO

 Twitter:

https://twitter.com/iakomusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/iakomusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/iakomusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/iakomusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7sbF86JjQDv5GXy5zaY15w

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5vb5OxjAG4MT01pnXSzOoX

INTERVIEW: MOLLYANNA

INTERVIEW:

MOLLYANNA

___________

THERE are many terrific artists…

based in Yorkshire right now. I feel the area does not get the respect and attention it warrants. I asked the Sheffield-based band, MOLLYANNA, whether they agree with that statement. They tell me about the new single, Thief, and what inspired its creation; how the nostalgic look of its video came together; who the new artists are we should be keeping an eye out for – whether the band have any tour dates coming up.

I discover how MOLLYANNA has changed since its inception and when we can expect more material. The guys share their favourite albums and memories from music; what advice they would give to new artists emerging – and, given their busy schedule, they have any time to relax and wind down.

____________

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

Hey, Sam. We're pretty good. It's been a busy week, getting ready for our single launch on 31st March. It's been all-go with rehearsals!

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

We're MOLLYANNA; a four-piece Alternative-Rock band from Sheffield. We write gritty, melodic tunes about what goes on in our heads...

We are Bernadette (Vocals), Mike (Guitar); Josh (Bass) and Laura (Drums).

Thief is your new song. What is the story behind it?

Bernadette: This song took ages to write. Mike presented me with this amazing riff and, for months, I couldn't come up with anything to do it justice. Then, I stayed at my parents’ house in some sh*t village for two weeks cat-sitting for them. It was really lonely and I was surrounded by all these photos of me and my siblings growing up.

I wrote Thief feeling nostalgic about summertime and all the mistakes I've made; what I'd do differently if I could…

The music video was shot entirely on VHS. Was that an instant decision? What was the reason behind that?

That was a decision made by Adam Fitch (Director), really. We'd been chatting for a while, trying to decide how best to get that nostalgia across on screen, and he had the idea to do it on a camcorder from 1987. It was so much fun to film! I like the fact everyone has their own room and I travel between them - it's like I'm visiting different memories.

Is there going to be more material coming? Might we see an E.P. later this year?

We're working on some new material, and it'll hopefully result in an E.P. coming out next year. I'm really excited to get stuck into writing again.

How did MOLLYANNA get together? When did you meet one another?

Mike is one of my oldest friends and we've been making music together, one way or another, for almost eight years now. He's a technical genius and can really focus on tiny details to make sure something is perfect. I'm more ‘big picture’ and deal with melodies and structures. We work really well together.

We formed MOLLYANNA in 2016 as a duo and then recruited three other people to play live with us. Those three left last summer but we gained Josh and Laura - who are both incredibly talented and the most fun to perform and work with!

You are based out of Sheffield. Is the scene quite healthy at the moment? Do you think the area gets the credit it deserves?

Josh: I would say the scene in Sheffield is thriving at the moment. A lot of it in the past up until, maybe, mid-last year was very Indie-based - and still is to some extent. But, there are plenty of great bands coming through all genres now and it really feels like everyone involved in music around Sheffield is out to help and support one another.

It's amazing to be a part of…so, yeah; I think it does get the credit it deserves!

Who are the artists you all grew up listening to?

Bernadette: I grew up listening to Nirvana, Green Day; The Offspring, NOFX; System of a Down, Machine Head but, also, Alanis Morissette, Cyndi Lauper and Savage Garden, because, why not.

Josh: I grew up with a lot of my stepdad's music taste; so there was a lot of The Beatles, The Who; David Bowie, Talking Heads and New Order to name a few. From there, I found my own tastes and people like Jeff Buckley, John Mayer and Red Hot Chili Peppers inspired me a lot.

Mike: Sum 41, Blink-182 and System of a Down. Then, through the Red Hot Chili Peppers, I got into Soul, Jazz, and Hip-Hop - and then it just spiralled a bit.

Laura: I grew up listening to a lot of Green Day, Nirvana; Radiohead: pretty much all of the 1990s Rock bands!

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

Josh: For me, it would have to be Grace by Jeff Buckley. It continues to inspire me to make music every time I listen to it, and I will always come back to it. For me, it's (just) perfection.

Bernadette: This is so hard! It'd have to be between By the Way (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and Dookie (Green Day). Teenage loner vibes.

Laura: Tough question...I guess Jagged Little Pill by Alanis Morissette. It was the first album growing up I felt I could really relate to.

Mike: Anything by The Smiths. Because it reminds me of the positive power of pure hatred.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We want to write an E.P. and take this show on the road (tour).

Have you each got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Laura: Too many! My best memory has to be when I and eight-hundred other drummers got together in 2012 to break the world record for the number of drummers in the same room playing in time with each other! That was mad! We also raised over £150k for the MS Society UK.

Bernadette: I put a lot of myself into our songs, so performing them live and seeing people respond to them always feels amazing. I played a sold-out gig last year where we'd squeezed one-hundred-and-thirty people into a one-hundred-capacity venue - it was so warm but the atmosphere was insane.

Mike: Probably just small breakthrough moments with songwriting - which are few and far between. Sometimes, you have to really grind to make something happen…but there have been a few moments where I’ve sat down to write something and had a full song thirty mins later. This happened once while writing Thief - and that’s probably top for now.

Josh: It’s so hard to choose one moment. I’ve played a lot of really cool gigs with a couple of bands; so I’m like Bernadette in that I love performing. But, what’s great about having joined MOLLYANNA is that it's pushed me to be a better musician - and that is something that's going to stay with me!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Bernadette: work hard to perfect your music; work to your strengths and invest wisely if you need to use outside agencies for anything. Do your research!

Josh: Make sure you don't lose sight of why you got into playing music in the first place. It can be easy to get bogged down with lots of planning and admin but, if you still love the music you play and get excited about what you play, then you’ll love it.

IN THIS PHOTO: ENGINE

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Josh: Ten Eighty Trees (Newcastle/Sheffield) are amazing, as well as The Sky Moguls (Sheffield) and ENGINE (Leeds). I'd also say Kid Conventional (Sheffield) and Weekend Recovery (Leeds), who are both supporting us at our launch this month.

Bernadette: We played with some incredible guys from Nottingham called A Hundred Crowns - absolutely worth checking out. I'd also recommend Steal the City, from Sheffield, who are ace and so lovely.

 IN THIS PHOTO: A Hundred Crowns

Where can we see you play? What gigs do you have lined up?

We have our single launch-party on 31st March in Sheffield, which we're super-excited about. We also have some local festivals (Tramlines and Heaven & Hell Fest). We're currently booking some dates further afield for summer…so stay in touch to find out more!

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Bernadette: I like to drink gin and go bouldering…separately.

Josh: I also like drinking gin. I'm training to be a journalist and I find that helps - to be able to get to the pub!

Mike: Putting on a stupid podcast and trying to learn to draw. That does it for me right now.

Laura: I'm not sure I ever unwind completely from music: I’m constantly tapping away.

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).

Josh: Ol’ '55 by Tom Waits - it’s beautiful

Bernadette: I'll Make a Man Out of You by Donny Osmond (Mulan Original Soundtrack). For like, no reason…

Laura: Cherub Rock - Smashing Pumpkins

Mike: Walk Like an Egyptian by The Bangles

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Follow MOLLYANNA

Official:

http://mollyannaband.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/mollyannaband/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mollyannaband/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/mollyannaband

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPu-pyDWaTucmkplcZvW6AQ

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4tRh6321uWB87qxIqS1YDO

INTERVIEW: Gris-de-Lin

INTERVIEW:

Gris-de-Lin

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ONE of my big ambitions for this year…

is to highlight artists who have rare quality and spirit. Gris-de-Lin is a musician I had to know more about. She talks to me about making music and living down in Bridport, Dorset. I discover what the story is behind the new track, Muhammad Ali – it is from the exceptional album, Sprung. Gris-de-Lin discusses the album of the same name and whether tour dates will follow.

I ask which musicians inspire her and which new artists we should all check out; if the songwriter gets time to detach from a busy music career; what it was like recording music at a nursery school – Gris-de-Lin reveals her plans for the remainder of 2018.

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Hi, Gris-de-Lin. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. Yeah. All good, thanks. I’ve been away a lot on tour recently, but I’m finally home and that feels pretty blissful!

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

I’m a singer/songwriter who plays a variety of instruments; creating music by the sea in Dorset. My influences are broad, so my music has elements of Post-Rock, Alt-Folk; dark Blues and glitchy Electronica, too.

Muhammad Ali is your newest track. Can you tell me about the story behind it?

Well. The song is based on a true event – a man who must’ve escaped from some kind of institution or hospital; snuck into my old flat and slept there overnight. In the morning, he’d scarpered through an open window and all that was left was a pile of clothes and his nametag ‘Muhammad Ali’.

This got me thinking about imprisonment and the mind – so, really, I’d say the song is about the human spirit and how our freedom of thought is the one thing that can’t be caged.

It follows hot on the heels of Sprung. The video for the song looks like it was a bit of an adventure! What was it like filming it?

Yeah. It was pretty epic trudging through the woods in high heels carrying a drum kit! I wanted it to have a fairytale element - which was why we introduced all the cuddly toy voyeurs watching from behind the trees. All my videos are very D.I.Y. and made with friends; so it’s fun to see what can be done with no budget and a little bit of imagination.

I believe the album, Sprung, will follow. What was it like recording the record? Is there a track from the album, you feel, stands out from the pack?

It was a special time recording the album; I got really immersed in it. I’d wake up in the middle of the night with lyrics in my head that I had to write down (and stuff like that)! It was kind of overwhelming at times, but exciting too.

I’d say The Kick is a song that stands out – it began as an improvisation but then took on a life of its own. The lyrics were taken from a report about a rugby match in the local paper, but they ended up becoming quite poignant for me (it’s all about getting your mojo back).  

Is it true the material was recorded in a nursery school?! What was the reason for that? Was it conducive to inspiration, would you say?

Yes, that’s right. I think, sometimes, music studios can feel a bit claustrophobic…plus, as soon as you are in a studio, you can feel under pressure. The nursery school is a really nice big space, so it meant we could set up instruments, amps and equipment everywhere and never feel hemmed in. For me, the recording experience has to be enjoyable as I think feeling relaxed makes it much easier to get good takes and to capture special spontaneous moments.

What was it like working with Chris Hamilton (Torres/Kite Base) and Rob Ellis (PJ Harvey/Anna Calvi) on the record?

It was great working with Chris - as we were really on the same wavelength from the start. There were lots of crossovers in terms of our musical taste, but he also took me beyond my comfort zone and introduced brilliant elements of dark Electronica to the mix. Rob Ellis came in for a day to put drums on a couple of the songs. That was great, as I’d been a fan of his drumming for a long time. When he plays, he is a powerhouse!

Tell me about the artists you count as idols. Which musicians were you raised on?

Well. My parents were very into Folk music, so there was a lot of that playing in the background during my childhood. One of my favourites was an early Kate Bush record - it had scary sounds at the beginning, so I’d put it on and hide behind the sofa to listen. Joni Mitchell’s Blue was another in their collection which remains a stunning piece of work. I’m sure it inspired me when I was young. My mum was also into music from lots of different countries - and I think that’s, maybe, where my love of interesting rhythms stems from.

I wouldn’t really say I have idols – but I’m really inspired by songwriters whose lyrics manage to both tell a story but be personal too. Tom Waits and Nick Cave spring to mind here. Oh, and David Bowie, of course. When you look at the body of work he created and everything that came with it, visually, it’s kind of mind-blowing. When songs can capture the spirit of a time and place, that’s really special.

Bridport, Dorset is home. What is the area like in terms of music? Do you take a lot of influence from the setting and people?

I’m lucky because Bridport is a small town with lots going on and lots of creative people. It’s a quirky place – an alternative haven with friendly vibes. Its nature and seaside are really stunning - and that is a constant inspiration.

Who are the artists who opened your eyes growing up?

So many. Bands like Sonic Youth, Fugazi and Mogwai really inspired me by managing to be really atmospheric and heavy at the same time. Then, there are the Alternative songwriters who continue to inspire me with songs that seem to effortlessly weave narrative storytelling with personal reflection. I’m also hugely into interesting rhythm. In this respect, Talking Heads and Can are a big inspiration; along with Afrobeat artists like Fela Kuti and my Hip-Hop heroine, Missy Elliott.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Well. It’s gonna be great to play live shows following the release of the album. I’m now working on songs for the next album – busy recording demos at the moment. I’m also collaborating on a new album with Joe Gideon and Jim Sclavunos (Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds) which we’re hoping to finish this year - and there is a new album with Gemma Ray in the pipeline, too!

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

The great thing about living a life centred around music is that it takes you on some real unexpected adventures. Hard to find a favourite! The tour I did with the band, Tunng, was a very special time for me, though. I’d just gone through some big life changes and was emerging out of the darkness – and being on the road with them was a breath of fresh air.

It made me realise that music is not all about the graft but about letting loose and living in the moment, too.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I do think it’s getting harder to make a living from music and it saddens me that music lessons are being cut in schools. Terrible if music becomes the preserve of the wealthy who can afford it. Saying that; there will always be new artists who make their own path. There is a great quote from Patti Smith about creating a body of work that will speak for itself.

So; I’d say create and experiment constantly – and keep putting stuff out there!

IN THIS PHOTO: Chesca Dolecka

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There is an artist called Chesca Dolecka I’m a big fan of. She has something really special: almost like a female Jeff Buckley in places, with really creatively-written music and arrangements.

Also (worth checking out) a band from Bridport called HUSH! I sang some vocals on their last single – kind of Dream-Pop but with a quirky darkness to it.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Music is pretty obsessive, so I’m not always good at switching off! That’s why it’s good to live by the coast, though. I’ve got a dog and you can’t beat a long walk along the cliffs or through the woods to clear your head.

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).

I’d love for you to play L’Amour Stories by Deerhoof - it always makes me smile!

____________

 Follow Gris-de-Lin

 Official:

https://bbislandmusic.com/grisdelin-1

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/grisdelinmusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/grisdelin/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/grisdelinmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/gris-de-lin

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHleokF1Rj8zZ7HuCXsB0ww

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3H1es4kiWQmIEeghxyPR2E

INTERVIEW: Yes Selma

INTERVIEW:

Yes Selma

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I don’t think I have interviewed…

an artist from Baltimore – none that I can think of right now! Yes Selma talks to me about his latest album, Songs of Happiness, and what sort of themes inspired the songs; why the tracks are punchy and precise; the impact of Drag City musicians; how music affects and guides him – whether we will see him in the U.K. this year.

I ask the U.S. artist why he takes a D.I.Y. approach and what the scene is like in Baltimore; which new artists we should check out; if he has any advice for new artists coming through; whether he is influenced by the music from the 1980s and 1990s – the talented young artist finishes the piece by choosing a rather good song.  

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Hi, Yes Selma. How are you? How has your week been?

I'm Ok. My week's been Ok.

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

I write songs and make sound experiments in my bedroom. Sometimes, I record them and put them out under the name ‘Yes Selma’ which, at this point, is just a brand name. I do other things, too - but they're menial and not worth talking about.

Tell me about Songs of Happiness – released late last year. What sort of themes and stories inspired the songs on the album?

I tried to make a different kind of album. I wanted it to be chaotic and off-putting and ugly because that's how I see the world. I wanted to capture desperation, mental instability and depression. But, I also wanted to make a comedy record. It's a messy album. There's a lot of mistakes I didn't bother fixing. I wanted to make an album that no one would like.

The songs are quite short and direct. Was it important creating punchy and precise music?

I often write songs really, really fast, then I record them immediately. Because, if I take time to think about a song, I just dwell about trying to make it perfect or I'll get hung up about a particular line - and I'll always end up becoming uninterested and moving onto something else. The entire goal for me when recording is to not think. I think all the time - and it's never gotten me anywhere. But, the process of creating something allows me to free my mind.

So no; it's not important. It's just how it happens.

How important, in terms of influence, are the Drag City musicians? Do you take a lot from lo-fi artists of the 1980s and 1990s?

Yeah. Drag City is huge for me. It was such a revelation to find a label that actually focused on releasing more introspective, rawer songwriters - as well as experimental noise and so forth. D.C. really has no limits, which is really lovely for folks like me who have pretty well-rounded tastes and open minds. I am influenced by a lot of lo-fi artists around that time. I get kinda bored by high-end production. It's more interesting to hear chair creaks, breathing noises; microphone pops etc.

Is there going to be more music this year? What are you working on right now?

I just finished recording an album called Denial of Death, but I'm not sure if it'll ever be released. It's all finished though. It's mixed and everything. Maybe some label will put it out, but who knows? The title is based off a book of the same name. It's about being alive, trying to deal with being a human, I guess - in a world that's pretty much against you…

Learning to appreciate the given moment.

Which musicians did you connect with growing up? Can you remember when music came into your life?

My first true connection with music was with Hip-Hop.

My cousin got me into MF Doom, J Dilla; Tribe, Big L. - stuff like that. That was when my interests began to develop. Then, I discovered music that spoke to my identity. All those Elephant 6 bands; The Microphones and stuff like that. But, the album that changed everything was Figure 8 by Elliott Smith. I listened to it over and over. It was like I had figured out what to do with my life. Listening to that record, in particular, took me from being a music listener to a musician. I began writing songs…

Baltimore is your base. Is there quite a varied music scene there? What is the local market like?

I started going to Baltimore shows when Wham City artists (Dan Deacon, Future Islands; Ed Schrader, etc.) were becoming more well-known and less of an underground secret. It was this weird purgatory period of D.I.Y. insanity. I saw some of the craziest shows I'll ever see. The Bank was a venue in West Baltimore that was just insane. Only those who have been there can truly understand.

There's still a scene, but it's different. There are still amazing artists living here and inventive stuff happening all over the place. It's cool for me because I'm good friends with many artists I admire.

You are a D.I.Y. artist who tackled everything. Do you think it is important having that autonomy and self-sufficiency?

It's important for me. I prefer doing everything myself because I trust myself in the artistic sense. I know how I want my music to sound. I know what I want the album artwork to look like. But, of course, no one can do everything themselves. I've had a lot of help along the way that I'm very thankful for; the most helpful being Moe Hammond, who started his own label to release my records - which I can certainly say no one else in the world would have done.

There is a growing wave of do-it-yourself musicians. Do you think more popular artists need to take a D.I.Y. approach?

I don't think there's a right or wrong way to approach it. Whatever you feel comfortable doing is probably best. If you feel you can do everything yourself and it makes you happy, then I don't see any reason why you shouldn't. If you need help from a label or a promoter, that's cool too. I guess, ultimately, it's good that the bigwig music business is dying and artists have more control over their work. I certainly respect the artists that have a D.I.Y. approach because I know they're doing it for the right reasons.

There are still a lot of good labels that exist who value and respect the artist's integrity. Friends Records and EHSE are two labels in Baltimore who have helped many artists. Feeding Tube in Western Massachusetts is another example.

Do you have any gigs booked at the moment? Where can we see you play?

I don't have any Yes Selma shows booked at the moment. Baltimore is the best place to see me for now. I just put together a band with my friend Corey (Gordy Manny) who plays drums and has helped give life to songs that I don't feel confident singing on my own. It's way more fun to play with Corey, because he's a great drummer and a great artist. We plan to do an East Coast tour this summer.

Have you ever played in Britain? Are you a fan of the music that has come from this country?

I have not and I don't have any official plans to come; but, if I'm ever invited to play, I'd bootleg a plane ticket A.S.A.P. The best artist I discovered recently is Richard Dawson. His music has such an eerie strangeness to it. It sounds sinister at times. Ghoulish.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I don't like to make goals because, once I make one, I suddenly become uninterested in achieving it. I prefer to live spontaneously, without any expectations for myself. Though, I do make short-term goals. Like, whenever I merge onto a busy highway, my goal is to not die. Every month I have a goal to make rent on time...

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Listening to my music on vinyl was a pretty cool feeling. Also, playing shows with artists I admire. My first show was with Bryan Lewis Saunders, who's just the greatest. I was really nervous to play because I often have horrible stage fright and I don't really think I played that well - but he was really kind and encouraging to me. We've kept in touch. His artwork is truly one of a kind.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just make whatever you want whenever you want to for the sake of expressing yourself - and never care what other people think of it. Make stuff that you like and feel positive about existing in the world.

IN THIS PHOTO: PonY PaYroLL bOnEs

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

He's not exactly new, but PonY PaYroLL bOnEs is America's hidden gem. Also, Liz Durette's new album, Four Improvisations, is really beautiful to listen to.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

The fact is that I don't chill away from music because that is how I unwind. Life is short and fragile and pointless and can be taken away so easily. Sometimes, it's hard to find things to be happy about. Music is a good way to express yourself, particularly when you're feeling low.

I read, in Art Pepper's autobiography, that he was once put in solitary confinement - so he found a way to create pitches with a plastic cup by blowing in it at certain angles. So, he started blowing away and other inmates in neighboring cells would clap their hands or provide vocal rhythms.

I believe, if you love music, you'll be able to find it in one way or another.

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).

Let's do an olde classic: Cruel and Thin by Sun City Girls. The masters.  

____________

Follow Yes Selma

Official:

http://yesselma.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/yesselma

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Yes_Selma

BandCamp:

https://chadbeattie.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCda7j-FwkX_acacaugbvMcA

INTERVIEW: IDA KUDO

INTERVIEW:

IDA KUDO

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IT is safe to say…

there is nobody in the music business like IDA KUDO! Not only is her blend of Japanese and Danish D.N.A. a reason why many people are comparing her to musical legends – she is an open soul possessed with a curious and free-flying imagination. There is vulnerability and questions within IDA KUDO’s heart, too. I discover what makes the songwriter tick and how the song, Wolf, came together.

The Copenhagen-based artist reflects on her upbringing and casts forward to an upcoming music video (for Wolf) and performances; what sort of music and culture inspired her to get into the business; how Copenhagen’s diverse and multi-sided personality impacts her music and aura – the talented songwriter recommends some new musicians and chooses the three albums that mean the most to her.

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

Hi (smiles). I am tired but excited at the same time. My last week has been absolutely thrilling, exciting; beautiful, nerve-wrecking and intense. I have just spent three days on set for the music video for Wolf: two days in the forest by night and one day in a swimming pool doing underwater shoots in full costume!

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

I’m a woman with a lot of energy and a need for expression: music is my platform. I write, produce and perform all my songs – it is very important to me that I feel my ‘voice’ throughout my work. My style is Indie-Pop, or Indie-Electronic, you could say. I’m very fond of a solid, powerful beat and I love to pair ‘the raw’ with the ‘well-produced'. I think my music is accessible to a broad audience – although, it has edge and I care a lot about my audience. I’d love my music to be accessible to the ‘average’ listener, but at the same time, it all comes down to my personal expression and ‘edge’ - and how they receive that!

My songs often linger in an almost ‘mythical’ universe and I use mythological themes and figures as symbols in my songs. My influences come from a combination of my Danish-Japanese background and being surrounded by a vast array of music. I’d say my music has been especially inspired by Classical composers such as Brahms, Bartok and also, visually, the Miyazaki cartoons that I watched growing up on my visits to Japan. I’m in love with spirit in music and I want to continue conveying that in my music; although, I also aim to write within certain Pop-frames.

You have been compared to huge artists like M.I.A. and Lorde. It seems originality is your most important goal. How do you feel your music differs to what is out there?

I’m very flattered by the comparisons. Originality is definitely a key to my output and interest in music. If it isn’t original, I don’t really find it relevant! It’s very individual from musician to musician, what their motivation is - and mine is to express the uniqueness within.

That, to me, is beauty.

Is your Japanese and Danish heritage important when it comes to your unique edge? What do you ‘take’ from each country in terms of sound, image and D.N.A.?

It definitely is! From my Danish background, I’ve learned to be free; that I have my freedom and I’m allowed to sing and write in my own voice. I have a right to be individual. That drive has been nourished by my Danish heritage. From my Japanese heritage comes the edge; beauty that is different. Japanese aesthetics are really interesting, often contrasting the extremely controlled and perfected with the surreal, raw and, sometimes, absurd.

I love that contrast and I believe a lot of my lust for contrast comes from the Japanese background. Sound-wise, like I said, I grew up with Classical music which I, somehow, connect to my Danish background. The older I get, I’m getting more and more interested in the Asian style - but I’m not trying to use Asian or Japanese-sounding elements in my music intentionally. When they do occur though, I’m just happy to see that they’re moving within my subconscious.

I feel more connected to something indigenous than specifically Japanese. Sound-wise; I’m a great fan of ethnic elements and sounds, reminding me of nature and raw rhythm.

Wolf might be those best distillation of the two worlds. What is the inspiration behind the song?

The inspiration is, really, the fear that I’d like to get around. I’m afraid of many things.

As I wrote earlier on, Japanese culture is quite controlled and disciplined and, so, sometimes I find the wild and savage part of my personality confronting to the controlled side - and they are staring at each other eye to eye, trembling. So; Wolf is my savage side facing up and my expression of this: I’m scared and unsure what will happen when my inner-animal breaks the surface. It’s also a symbol of me being puzzled about men. I’m puzzled why they sometimes scare me and yet that kind of provokes me - so I felt the need to write a song about it.

The lyrics and the melody for the chorus came instinctively whilst riding my bike. I thought, ‘Oh! That’s fresh’ and then I recorded it on my phone; went to the studio and I could tell the song wanted to be written.

Is there more material approaching? Might we see more before the end of the year?

Yes! I have another great single coming out around the beginning of June and then, around September, I will release the new E.P.

What is the music scene like in Copenhagen? Is it a city that provides opportunity and influence?

In many ways, Copenhagen is really awesome and its music scene is really blossoming. There’s so much new music and new bands with many initiatives helping upcoming artists, which is great! Also, many festivals both in summer and some in winter!  

That being said, I feel Denmark is quite small in size but also, in its way of comprehending arts and culture, it’s a place that can be quite conservative and narrow-minded. I don’t blame my country: I think it’s an amazing country and unique in many ways! I was extremely thrilled when CLASH magazine premiered Wolf because I feel, as an artist, I’m better understood abroad then I am here in the Danish music scene.

Copenhagen is the best place for me to be in Denmark. The city, in general, has an open-mindedness to culture and arts - but, I still think it’s important my music finds its way abroad.

How does it feel having your music used by designers such as Nadia and Zehra? Is it humbling hearing it played at fashion shows?!

It was exciting to pair my music with Nadia and Zehra’s collection and a whole lot of fun! I didn’t really feel humbled: more excited. Humbling was when the director of the upcoming music video for Wolf (Agapi Triantafillidis) brought a crew of sixteen professionals to shoot (the music video) in the forest by night; in the pool by day…everybody working for free and creating true art!

That is very humbling (smiles).

You have performed at some great festivals and captivated crowds. Do you think the experience you get playing live impacts and improve your songwriting?

Definitely. Sometimes, I even try out new songs live to see if they work. Wolf, for instance, was, at first, one key lower and the tempo, some B.P.M.s slower. I tried it out at a concert and found out the key was too deep for live-singing and too slow for the concert set. So, I arranged it one note up and increased the B.P.M. as well – which, altogether, worked better. So, yes; the live experience definitely plays an important role in the writing and producing process!

What dates do you have coming up? Are there particular gigs you are really looking forward to?

SPOT festival in May and, hopefully, one in the Netherlands and one in Scotland - more to come on this! I’m excited to play abroad…

Not to forget: watch out for the Wolf music video coming out mid-April. That will be something new and fresh!

If you had to select three albums that stand out to you; which would they be and why?

Debut by Björk – because I think it’s the best album I ever heard.

Dangerous by M.J. (Michael Jackson) - because it’s the best Pop I ever heard.

Songs of Freedom by Bob Marley - because it’s the album that changed my life.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

My concert at the upcoming festival, Uhørt, was one of the best concerts ever. I felt so in-tune, vivid and happy...

My first Joan As Police Woman concert. It was an acoustic concert - and I didn’t know who she was. I didn’t expect anything. I cried from beginning to end with snot all over my face. She hit me right in the heart...

The first time I heard Jóhann Jóhannsson’s (R.I.P.) album, Englabörn, in Iceland. Nothing can compete with that heartbreaking Icelandic force of nature. Pure yearning.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stay true to yourself. Find out if you really want it…If you really, really want it; find your own path with endurance. Learn from all experiences, enjoy everything you can and remember: you are capable of achieving three times more than you expect of yourself and ten times more than what your mother expects of you. Don’t sign anything until you’ve been around it from all angles - and with professional guidance and help!

IN THIS PHOTO: Rest in Beats

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friends, Rest in Beats, is my favourite Danish band. Just because they are extremely good. Not just good: they are really, really good and original!

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

I unwind by being social and making sure the people I love, know I love them - best friends, parents and my boyfriend. I do yoga, sometimes, and take small trips to the countryside. Nature is a healer, for sure.

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).

Right; wonderful task. I’ll go with Kimbra - Top of the World

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Follow IDA KUDO

 Facebook:

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Twitter:

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SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/idakudomusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1WyfdPnJcL6JS5s0TAq7Fa

YouTube:

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INTERVIEW: Ace of Wands

INTERVIEW:

Ace of Wands

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HAILING from Toronto…

it provides me with another opportunity to visit the Canadian city and see what is happening there. Ace of Wands talk to me about their new song, Grown from Good, and what the story behind it is. I ask how they came together and what they have planned in terms of gigs and future material – they provide the names of new artists to watch.

I ask them whether they get time to chill way from music; their highlight memories from their life/music to date; whether we will see them play in the U.K. – and, as many of us might wonder, where the name, ‘Ace of Wands’, came from.

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

Great! We are gearing up for our E.P. release-party next week in Toronto on April 6; so, for me, that means cramming in as many art projects as possible. I keep busy when I’m stressed or nervous - and this release has been a long time coming! I find working on papier-mâché sculpture, drawing and listening to music to be the most relaxing way I can fill time in advance of a big event!

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

We are a three-piece band from Toronto, Canada. We play reverb-drenched Rock music with lots of harmonizing vocals; giant, loud drums and, occasionally, violin. I write songs with very personal lyrics, reflecting events in my life entrenched in metaphor. I spend a lot of time thinking about the poetry of the songs and how best to express myself in only a few words. I think we sound a bit like a mix of PJ Harvey and Marika Hackman with some Aimee Mann, Beach House and Sleater-Kinney mixed in.

Can you tell me about your new track, Grown from Good. Is there a story behind it?

I wrote Grown from Good when I was going through a significant period of depression last spring. I had just returned from a long tour across Canada and was reflecting on my life and relationships. Many things came up for me that felt like triggers for transformation and personal change. A lot of it was scary and difficult, but necessary.

The song is an expression of the feelings of confusion and self-doubt I was having at the time. 

I like the feel of the video. Do you think the images and scenes reflect the messages of the song?

Absolutely. I tried to build a costume that would be a metaphor for the transformation I was engaging in. As the water costume grows and lengthens throughout the video, eventually turning into a shroud, I wanted to show the costume as a representation of all my emotions; an all-encompassing monster, following me around, eventually swallowing me up. At the end of the video, when I take the costume off and burn it, it felt like a very cathartic exercise in letting some of it all go. 

Lee. It seems like you had to endure some arduous water temperatures for the video! Was that quite tough?!

Ha! Yes! The first filming session we did was in June last year. In Canada, the water temperatures of the lakes are still quite cold in early-spring. It felt a bit like knives stabbing me all over my body. But, for art, I will sacrifice warmth!

Is there going to be more music/videos from Ace of Wands?

Yes! We just finished filming a second music video last month. Grow from Good is the first in a trilogy of videos; continuing the themes of transformation. The three videos will each have shared visual elements (like the fabric, fire and drone footage), as they continue the story of spiritual and physical transformation.

The other two videos will also introduce the other members of the band, one at a time. I’m an avid horror movie fan, and so, I love the idea of exploring monsters (inside and outside of ourselves) through the music videos.

As the trilogy of videos progresses, the horror elements will become quite apparent...

I believe you took your name from a tarot card. Does the band represent that denouncement of stress and the embrace of harmony and improvement?

Yes. Last year, when I was feeling so messed up in life, I started to use my tarot deck to try to clarify my feelings - and the first card I pulled was the Ace of Wands. The card represents a gift of passionate energy and focused attention, will and determination. When the three of us came together in this project, it felt like a beautiful collaboration and representation of all the forces held within the Ace of Wands card.

I chose the name, partly to solidify the ideas and image of the band, but also as a bit of a manifesto for myself: fully embracing what can be the fleeting nature of creative drive and seizing it at every opportunity. 

How did you all find one another? Did you move in similar circles prior to setting up Ace of Wands?

Anna and I met a few years ago around the Toronto music scene. Anna’s other band, Beams, and I had played together several times. Jody and I went on tour together across Canada last winter, opening for Blue Rodeo, and connected that way. It really feels like the three of us found each other at the perfect time to create this new project.

Which musicians and albums did you all grow up around?

Lee: Tom Petty - Into the Great Wide Open; Nirvana – Nevermind; PJ Harvey - Stories from the City, Stories from the Sea; Spice Girls - Spice Girls.

Jody: Herb Alpert & the Tijuana Brass - Whipped Cream & Other Delight; Star Wars - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack; Village People – Cruisin’; Queen - The Game.

Anna: Shania Twain - The Woman in Me; Destiny’s Child – Survivor; Led Zepplin II; Pink Floyd - Dark Side of the Moon.

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

We are playing around Toronto and Southern Ontario this spring - with our follow-up E.P. being released in the summer. If you are in Toronto, you can catch us on April 6 at the Monarch Tavern; May 23 at Burdock and April 18 in Hamilton, ON.

Will you come to the U.K. and play this year?

We would LOVE to come to the U.K. There are so many bands making music there that are so inspiring to me there right now. It would be a dream to become a part of that scene! Add us to a bill and we will be there! 

What do you each hope to achieve in 2018?

Following the release of this first E.P.; we plan to release two more three-song E.P.s over the summer and fall. We also hope to play as many shows as possible to get ourselves…and make more art and music videos!

Have you all got a favourite memory from your time in music – the one that sticks in the mind?

Lee: I remember going to the first concert of my life. It was seeing Kate and Anna McGarrigle at the Danforth Music Hall when I was, like, three-years-old. I think I fell asleep - but I have memories of it being very exciting

Anna: I remember being six-years-old; so proud of having my own recorder, sitting on the bottom bunk in my bedroom at the cottage and figuring out how to play the intro to My Heart Will Go On from Titanic. I think that was the moment that I realized that I could play whatever I could hear in my head.

Jody: Singing Lost Together with Blue Rodeo on stage at Massey Hall last year.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Lee: Hmm…I don’t think I could give any advice because we are pretty much (just) making this up as we go along. But, the idea of self-care and self-love has become very important to me recently – which, I think are things anyone trying to make art could work on.

Anna: I think it’s very important to tour, to put yourself out there and figure out how to play in other countries, too. 

Jody: If you are going to start a band, pick a name and stay with it for as long as possible: if you aren’t going to start a band, play with as many people as possible.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Big Moon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Lee: Angie McMahon from Australia; The Big Moon from the U.K.; Beams from Toronto; Goosebump from Toronto

Anna: Lung from Cincinnati; Ed Schrader’s Music Beat from Baltimore; Soften from Cincinnati; Vita and the Woolf from Philadelphia.

Jody: Greta Van Fleet - impressively Zepplinesque - from Michigan.

Do you get much time to chill away from music? How do you unwind?

Lee: How can you chill away from music? Music is the chilling!

Anna: There is no escaping…

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).

Lee: Quarrel - Moses Sumney

Jody: Airbag – Radiohead

Anna: Restless, Unfocussed - Zoe Sky Jordan

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Follow Ace of Wands

 Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/aceofwandstoronto

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/aceofwandsband/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/aceofwandsband

BandCamp:

https://aceofwands.bandcamp.com/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5IR3JKwATYkQkUUplaapN7