INTERVIEW: Calan Mai

INTERVIEW:

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 Calan Mai

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JORDAN Lawrence is the man behind 'Calan Mai'…

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and has been talking to me about his brilliant new single, We’ve Got Love. I ask what the story behind the song is and how he manages to balance the fun and dark. Lawrence reveals his musical past and what comes next for him; which musicians are key to his sound and development – he tells me about plans to move to L.A. and lay down roots there.

I ask whether we can see a Calan Mai concert in the U.K. and, if pushed, which three albums mean the most to him; whether there are any new artists worth seeking out; how he spends time away from music – Lawrence ends the interview by picking a classic cut.

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

Hey, there! I’m doing well because it’s Thursday - and Thursday is the next best thing to Friday. My week has been stressful, as I’m currently packing up all my stuff and moving house. Looking forward to putting my feet up and watching some Netflix. Still trying to get through The Series of Unfortunate Events, which is dragging a little, if I’m being honest.

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

My name is Jordan Lawrence and I perform under the name 'Calan Mai' - which means ‘the first day of summer’ in Welsh. I write, record and perform Indie-Folk music, with a strong focus on lyrics and storytelling.

What can you reveal about your single, We’ve Got Love? What is the story behind it?

We’ve Got Love is about unconditional love and the pain associated with it. The song is the story of my family - a snapshot of our lives. Since I was a child, I’ve always been anxious for the well-being of my father, mother and brother and this song sums up the worry, sadness and joy of loving and being loved by damaged people.

I like the video and its animations/art. Did you have a lot of say regarding the concept?

I did. The director, Callum Scott-Dyson, has created videos for me before and he is great at creating treatments based on the vision of the artist. I wanted the clip to visually depict the lyrics because the song is, essentially, a story. To watch that story play out in animation is a lot of fun and, hopefully, forces the listener to hear what I’m actually saying!

The song has a light and fun sound – its lyrics are heavier and deeper. Was it hard mixing a breezy and sunny composition with the emotion of the words?

That will always be the hardest aspect of production. Finding the right way to present such a heavy song was difficult. On one hand, you have lines about my brother claiming he’ll die alone and my father escaping into the ecstasy of addiction.

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On the other hand, you have a positive message about the importance of loving unconditionally. All of that needs to be presented in an honest way that draws the listener into the story. That’s what we tried to do.

Is there more material coming down the track?

Absolutely. Too much material! I need to get decisive and figure out what’s next in the pipeline…

You hail from Australia’s Gold Coast. What is the music scene like there? Was it easy finding likeminded people and chances to perform?

The Gold Coast has a very small music scene but, ultimately, it is a city most people move away from for greener pastures. This is a real shame because plenty of talented people grow up here. I do believe, as the city grows, there will be more chances for people to perform...

In terms of finding likeminded people - I was extremely lucky to find people early on who fostered my growth as an artist and helped me take this whole music thing seriously. They’re in a band called FAIRCHILD. Give them a listen!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Eddie Jag

Which musicians struck your heart at a young age? Who do you count as influences?

The very first music to really strike my heart was Blink-182. I was eleven-years-old and they seemed to know what was going on. I think I’ve carried a lot of their influence with me, as strange as it sounds. Major Key melodies, simple refrains; catchy hooks - that’s a huge part of what I’m aiming for when I write a song.

But, it was artists like Bob Dylan and Paul Simon who really shaped me as a lyricist. I always want to tell a story the way they did.

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

No gigs lined up as of yet. My main focus is to save my money and move to Los Angeles so I can really start playing in America!

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Might you come to the U.K. and play here? Do you like British music?

I lived in Manchester for two years and played over there a lot! I love British music and I was absolutely blown away at how much talent was hiding in a single city. I still miss the U.K. and am very eager to go back again. Fingers crossed it’s sooner rather than later.

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

1) August and Everything After - Counting Crows

I discovered this album, accidentally, at the age of fifteen and Adam Duritz blew my mind. From the opening of Round Here, where he orders the listener to “Step out the front door like a ghost, into the fog where no one notices the contrast of white on white”; I knew I was hearing something special. These tracks got me through my last years of high-school - and really informed the sort of lyricist I became.

2) I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning - Bright Eyes

This album is the pinnacle of what I’m trying to do whenever I write a song - that is, let a listener into my world and create a time capsule of a certain time and place in my life. I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning gives you full insight into the mind of Conor Oberst at the time he recorded it: from the minutia of details about yellow birds to the state of the world to post-9/11 - it is an incredible listen and only grows more relevant to me the older I get.

3) For Emma, Forever Ago - Bon Iver

Yeah: I know how typical this choice is. There’s not much left to be said about this album that hasn’t already been said. But, go listen to Justin Vernon’s recordings in the lead up to this masterpiece and try to figure out where the hell these songs even came from. The change in his songwriting and performance style is so immense, you have to wonder if it’s even the same man. That always gives me hope about myself as an artist. You never know how much you’re going to change. Heartbreak, misjudgements, loss - all of these things will continually shape you.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Eddie Jag

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope to move to the United States.

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

Opening for Band of Horses at the Manchester Royal Albert Hall. Unreal.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Surround yourself with people who do what they say they are going to do. Beware of those who only talk…

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IN THIS PHOTO: Dan Bettridge

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Check out Dan Bettridge. He’s an amazing singer-songwriter from Wales - and he’s currently releasing his debut L.P. in waves on Spotify. He and I have been friends since we met in New York for CMJ in 2015. Since then, we’ve both supported Band of Horses on the same tour, played SXSW 2018 and explored the streets of L.A. in wide-eyed wonder! All of this was by chance. Fortune has forced us into friendship. Life’s weird.

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

I’m a pretty major film buff and, in a lot of ways, I’m a bigger fan of movies than I am of music. At least as a consumer. I get to just enjoy movies. Music forces me to look at my own output and compare myself to other artists. So; I’d say watching movies, exercising and walking long distances for coffee are my ways to unwind.

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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).

Play Lift Me Up by Jeff Lynne! Impossible to listen to that song without a smile on your face. Thanks for having me.

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INTERVIEW: Moonheart

INTERVIEW:

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Moonheart

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IT is to Brooklyn…

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and a chat with the remarkable force that is Moonheart. I have been finding out about their new song, Bridestep, and whether they can shed any light regarding its birth. The guys – Kim takes up most of the answers – tell me how they got together and what their upcoming album, Feel It Out, will contain – what it was like recording it.

I ask how important Brooklyn is and what sounds they were raised on; if they have words of advice for artists coming through; if a trip to the U.K. is part of their plans – Kim and Michael tell me what they hope to achieve before the end of this year.

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

Kim: Hey! Doing pretty well. Thanks for asking (smiles). Aside from still having to do my taxes and being scared to do them (they’re gonna be a mess), I can’t complain. Michael already did his…overachiever.

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

I write songs and Michael produces them. It’s hard to describe how it sounds in words, but other people have done a really nice job of it. One of my friends calls it 'Future-Folk' and I like that. My family calls it ‘nice’.

Michael: Yea. I’d like to think that we’re somewhere in between ‘Future-Folk’ and ‘nice’. Kim writes beautiful songs with heart-wrenching lyrics and I try to dance around them with some electronic bleeps and bloops.

Bridestep is your new single. Can you explain its background and story?

Kim: Writing Bridestep helped me to sort out some lingering feelings that were eating at me about a relationship I’d ended in the past, without expressing myself in a way that I feel honoured how important that relationship was and is to me. I was meditating a lot on closure or the lack of it, on boundaries and what’s allowed to be said after the fact - and this song is an outgrowth of those thoughts.

Feel It Out, coming in spring, sounds exciting! What themes and ideas have gone into the record?

I’m always thinking about my ancestors, trying to connect and open up a pathway to them; feeling them work through my own work and movement; so, there’s always that thread somewhere in my lyrics. There’s also a good amount of grief in this album - the grief of physical and/or emotional loss, of dealing with some mental illness stuff (or not dealing with it). Opposites interacting with one another - openings and closings, expansion and contraction; high and lows and trying to find the balance among them - also plays a large part.

I think Michael, especially, did so much to portray that in his production. There’s a lot of organic sounds weaved into the digital sounds. I promise it’s not as depressing as this description makes it sound though. Ha.

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How was it recording the album? Do you both like being in the studio?

Michael: We actually recorded it in the apartment that we share here in Brooklyn, piece by piece over the course of about eight months or so. Some parts were much easier - getting to do them on our own time - than they would have been in a studio.

Kim: Especially vocal takes. I’m the queen of “just one more” take and then wanting to do at least ninety-three more...

Michael: Yea. I’m glad we didn’t have to pay for that…

Kim: But, for real though; it’s a little dream come true every time a song starts coming together and Michael and I have a little E.S.P going on in that regard. He tends to just know what I’m looking for without my having to explain much and it feels like magic every time.

It’s really fulfilling to shape something and see it through from beginning to end - and such a different muscle from writing. I love it

Michael and Kim. How did you meet one another? What brought you together?

We met in Boston, where we went to the same music conservatory. We didn’t really start making music or hanging out much until I moved to Brooklyn a couple years after he did, in 2014.

Michael: We bonded over trying to be better songwriters. We would do writing exercises where we’d send each other songs every day and ended up getting into each other’s music - and that’s what made us want to work together.

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I believe Brooklyn played a role in your careers. What is/was it about the area that led to songwriting?

Kim: It’s hard to pinpoint all the ways living here has changed me and helped me grow as a writer and person. But I’d say, for sure, one of the biggest factors in all of that is all of the sweet friends and artists around me who I get to watch do their thing beautifully often. The community here is constantly inspiring…

Michael: Yea. The community of musicians here is like nowhere I’ve ever been. I’m constantly humbled and inspired to do and be better by those around me, and that’s a great thing.

Kim: If you’re lucky you can find your people and what keeps you inspired anywhere, or at least on the internet. But, I’m glad we’ve found it here. I feel lucky to live here.

In terms of music; what sort of sounds did you both grow up around?

My dad was always playing all kinds of good stuff. A lot of Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu; Earth, Wind & Fire, The O’Jays and Prince. My mom loved Michael Jackson and the Whitney Houston. My granddad has a gorgeous voice and plays guitar and piano. My Nonnie sings too. Every family gathering with them is anchored by group singing and it was really special to grow up that way. They love standards, old spirituals and some Folk tunes, which got me into all of those things.

Michael: I grew up listening to a lot of Jazz. My parents weren’t that much into music, but my saxophone teacher introduced me to a lot of Jazz and Classical music. I was really into Stravinsky, Thelonious Monk and Duke Ellington. Later, my sister got me really into Elliott Smith, Deerhoof and Björk.

Will you be touring any time soon - and does that include an eventual trip to the U.K.?

Kim: Fingers crossed!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018 with your music?

On the topic of touring; I’d really like to tour our record in an extensive way outside of the city. I’m finding that playing shows is a whole other part of the body that writing and recording live in - and I want to tend to and feed that part much more; especially because I’m in love with playing in our current configuration - Michael and I, plus our friends Connor Baker on drums and Parker McAllister on bass. It’s new (we’ve only played two shows with this setup), but it feels really good and they make it so easy to sing.

I also hope that the music makes people feel soothed or lighter, or more comforted or recognized after listening to it, live or recorded. If it makes someone feel that way, I feel like I’m doing my job as a writer and a person.

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

Honestly; it’s been putting this album together. It’s a little dream come true every time a piece of the puzzle of a song is put in place

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Michael: Try not to compare yourself too much to those you think are doing better than you. Your path is always gonna be uniquely your own. Sorry for that Malcolm Gladwell corniness.

Kim: Be honest in your writing and be nice to yourself when it’s not coming easy.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Hite (Julia Easterlin) made a gorgeous record last year called Light of a Strange Day. She’s also a friend of mine. Her singing is so inspiring to me. She has so much control over her instrument and (especially) uses dynamics in such a moving way – and, whenever I hear her live, it makes me cry.

I love L’Rain’s self-titled album and can’t stop playing it. I’ve also been really into Kalbells lately - this great band from here that’s led by Kalmia from Rubblebucket. She’s great.

Michael: I’m really into Violents right now. I love Monica Martin’s voice and I really like the production...

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IN THIS PHOTO: Violents

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

I try to meditate, but I’m not good at; so, I usually go on runs or watch YouTube tutorials about other things I’m not good at.

Kim: I like to be in nature when it’s not cold and to read as much as I can. I also like watching trash T.V. when I have nothing going on; specifically, this beautiful mess called Vanderpump Rules, which I feel much less shame about now I know Rihanna watches it. 

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).

Kim: Oo. This is hard...I’ll show you my favorite Hite song (Light) since I told you about her.

Michael: Solo by Frank Ocean

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INTERVIEW: Makk Mikkael

INTERVIEW:

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 Makk Mikkael

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AS the warm weather teases my mind with alluring brightness…

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I am thinking of Makk Mikkael and her latest track, How It Feels. I have been listening to the song for a bit and learning more about myself from hearing it. The Canadian songwriter has been telling me about that track - and what she has planned for the coming months. I ask how influential relationships, good or bad, are to her songwriting; if she will come and see us in Britain this year – if there are new artists we need to get behind.

Makk Mikkael gives me the skinny about her creative flow and how she has transitioned as an artist; which albums mean the most to her; if she gets time to detach from the demands of the music day – she offers some sound advice for artists coming through.

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

Hey! I am doing good, thanks! I’ve been in the studio lots working on my third single - so stay tuned exciting things are coming.

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

Hey guys. My name is Makk Mikkael. I’m nineteen-years-old; currently living between Calgary and Toronto right now. I love creating music/listening to music, probably more than anything else in the world. I’m working on my debut album right now - so am super-stoked. Thank you all so much for listening to my music and for the support. Hope to see you on the road.

How It Feels is new. It is inspired by a dark time – the end of a relationship. Was it hard translating that hurt and upset into music?!

How It Feels was written in ten minutes in my basement. Haha. It was written from an experience I had from my trip to L.A. My friend sent me a beat, and it inspired How It Feels pretty instantly. I was so happy turning my anger, sadness towards someone into music; so, it was a very emotionally rewarding process which closed the chapter for me.

The video looks like it was pretty epic and interesting to film. What was it like filming it? Do you enjoy music videos?

I love watching music videos. You get to see the artists thought process when they were writing portrayed through visuals, which is super-dope.

For How It Feels; we started setting up at the first location at 4 P.M. and ended the shoot at 4 A.M. It was a long night, but super-cool to shoot at so many different locations. I love making music so I can make videos for it: I think they go hand in hand and people may relate to the video more than the song, or vice versa. But, it’s just another way of showing what you felt or experienced through visuals.

Have relationships, good and bad, played a big role in your career? Are you in a happier place at the moment?

I am in a really good place right now.

I’m surrounded by such great individuals and my family so it’s a really special time. As far as relationships go; the bad ones are the ones I write about. I typically don’t write happy songs: I like to write from a deep place and write the good and bad I experienced with that person all in one.

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Is there more material arriving later this year?

There will, 100%, be new material this year. My third single will be released, hopefully soon; we’re just getting it mastered right now. After that, I will start working on my debut album, which I’m all kinds of excited for.

You hail from Calgary and started recording music aged fourteen – under the name of ‘Mackenzie Rose’. How do you think you have changed in the past five years?

Haha. I’ve changed a lot. I don’t listen to Country music - and haven't since I was fourteen. I was really into Taylor Swift though; so that influenced my sound then. Now, I’m just into different stuff and have grown a lot with my sound/style.

How important was it going to L.A. and experience a new creative and personal lease? Do you think you might move away in future years? Are you quite rooted right now?

I think it’s important to try going to different places. Everything is a different experience - and you get the good and bad, but getting out of your comfort zone is so important. I loved living in L.A.; I learned a lot about the industry when I was there and was surrounded by super-talented individuals. L.A. has such different vibe then Toronto. It’s a huge music hub for everyone around the world to gather which, I think, Toronto is now turning into.

Before I move anywhere again, I want to finish my album. When I get on the road, I feel like that will help me decide where I wanna be. I’ve always been super in love with London, though.

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Which artists inspired you as a child? Has music always been in your life?

Music has always been in my life. When I was younger, I listened to JoJo, Taylor Swift; The Pussycat Dolls, Maroon 5 (love their early stuff so much); Hootie and the Blowfish, Hilary Duff; deadmau5 and Lilly Allen. It pretty much ranged from everything my parents listened to - to what was on Disney Channel.

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

I don’t have any gigs lined up. Hopefully, some shows will start in the summer. I’m super-busy creating right now.

Will you come and play the U.K. at all? Do you like the music over here?

I love the vibes in the U.K. The music that comes out of there is crazy-good. I’m so inspired by the sound over there. I will definitely come play there once this album is out.

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

The Internet - Ego Death

I saw them live in the summer in Toronto and was like: ‘What the heck; who are they?!’ They have such an energy and vibe on stage. Love the beats, lyrics: everything is spot on. The perfect way to describe them is (chill Lounge music), which is so inspiring for my sound and vision.

Toro y Moi - Boo Boo

When I was living on my own in Toronto, a friend showed me Toro y Moi. I’d never heard of him and I was completely taken to a different universe. For the next five months, after he introduced me to him, Boo Boo was the only album I had on rotate. I would walk everywhere in the city by myself and his music made me feel so comforted everywhere I went.

The 1975 - The 1975 (Deluxe Version)

The first song I heard from them was Girls. I was hooked. I recently saw them in concert and there just incredible live. They have released so much since there early stuff and it’s all great music - absolutely my favourites. They inspired me to release music and be myself in this industry.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want to release this album, tour and constantly keep creating.

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

Yes. I was on the back of a motorcycle on the outskirts of Toronto and I got a D.M. from Bipolar Sunshine, who was, at the time, coming to Toronto to perform at the Drake Hotel. He asked me if I wanted to open for him. So that was pretty dope...

Obviously, I said yes.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just do your thing. The more original and true to yourself you are the more chance you have of being successful. If you have it in you then you're good. Stay true to the music.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Alex Lustig

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m digging Sam Austins, Lou Val and my super-talented homie, Alex Lustig.

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

For sure. I live thirty minutes away from the mountains, so I get outside as much as I can. I get inspiration when I take time away from it and usually come back with lots of ideas, so it’s great. Honestly, I love it though; so, I don’t really need breaks from creating.

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).

Wasted Times - The Weeknd

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INTERVIEW: Dom Fricot

INTERVIEW:

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Dom Fricot

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I always enjoy chatting with Dom Fricot because he…

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reveals something new and fascinating. This time around, the Canadian songwriter has been discussing his new track, Echoes, and what the tale behind it is. I ask what we can expect from the upcoming mini-album, Deserts, and whether there are gigs planned.

Fricot reveals whether he is coming to the U.K. and what the scene is like in Vancouver; which artists he was raised on; if there are any new artists worth checking out; what he has planned for the remainder of the year – he ends the interview with a pretty cool song.

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

Been great. Just got back to the Netherlands after a nice month of playing shows on the road in Canada. Been writing with the Folk Road Show and enjoying the arrival of spring.

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

My name is Dom Fricot, I’m from a small town in BC, Canada called Salmon Arm. I’ve been in and out of bands since my late-teens and am currently putting out my third solo studio effort, Deserts.

The video for Echoes is out. I believe it was shot in Nepal. Were you there touring/playing at the time?

I wasn’t, no. I’ve never actually been. The filmmaker, who was interested in making a video for Echoes, was shooting other projects in Uganda and Nepal and pitched me a very loose concept for the video. Originally, I think he was going to do the project in Uganda - and just ended up having a better chance to do it in Nepal.

What were the people like who feature in the video? Was it a memorable experience?

As I wasn’t there, I can only speak from what Dwight has told me. I’m sure it was, yes.

Echoes is from the E.P./mini-album, Deserts. Is there going to be more material from the E.P. released into the world?

Yes. I had slotted to put out the entire eight tracks in March, but the label, Knight Vision Records (Warner) approached me and wanted to put out the album. So, some of the plans shifted a little. We’re putting out Deserts now in three parts: Pt. 1 was released digitally on April 5 and Part II should be out later this month.

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What was it like recording the E.P.? What sort of themes were you inspired by during that time?

The E.P. was pretty exciting to make. We took a quite minimal approach, largely building around my Rhodes, loop station and vocal parts. The last ingredients were merely some synth, mostly bass and then Classical strings.

In terms of creativity and music; are you working on new stuff right now?

At the moment, I’m writing with my other project for Folk Road Show’s next album. I like to have about three times the material than what ends up getting recorded, so we’re in the middle of a lot of writing. It’s feeling pretty fresh and inspired, which is great.

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Which artists did you grow up around? Give me a sense of the music you were raised on…

I have older sisters who were into everything from Wilson Phillips to Milli Vanilli and New Kids (on the Block) to Jon Secada, Janet Jackson and, of course, Phil Collins (smiles). My mother was a Beatles lover through and through – but, later she got into some strange stuff like Tony Byrd and Francis Cabrel.

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Vancouver is where you are from. Are there a lot of great artists working in the city right now?

Oh yeah; always have been. Right now, man; so many stellar acts: Bend Sinister, Peach Pit; We Are the City, Lion Bear Fox; REGAL (ahem…side project); Young Blood, JP Maurice; Savvie and Fraankie. Such a wealth of talent - I know I’m missing so many...

Do you have any gigs lined up? Are you heading to the U.K. this year?

I’m moving into a period of touring with the Folk Road Show in May/June and back to Canada with them for the end of July and August. Then, back to some more solo touring. Balancing is tough. I need a manager. Any takers? (smiles).

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Seems lofty...but I’d like to get over a million plays on songs off of Deserts. Haven’t decided which: I’m just starting off by putting that into the universe.  

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

I wrote my high-school grad song with a good friend. We performed it in front of a few thousand people with only an acoustic guitar. Playing it in a packed arena was nuts. When they jumped up to applaud, I nearly fell over. The rush was so huge.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Look for fellow musicians who you feel creative sparks with; people who push you to see and hear things differently and work hard to push each other.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Nimbus 3000.

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

I like hiking, beaching and eating - in no particular order.

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).

Nimbus 3000 (ft. Fricot Cane) - ALONE

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INTERVIEW: Vincent John

INTERVIEW:

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Vincent John

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HIS latest single has been wrapped around my brain…

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and coming into my vision at unexpected times. I have been speaking with the U.S. songwriter Vincent John about his new track, Shiny Car, and what compelled its birth. His E.P., Tangerine, is upcoming, so I was eager to know a bit more about it. I discover what the scene is like in Philadelphia – where Vincent John is based – and whether he will come to the U.K.

He tells me whether he is a fan of British music and what his favourite career memory is; if he gets time to switch off from music; which musicians have inspired him; what it has been like working with the legendary Lee Fields – Vincent John ends the interview by choosing a stunning song.

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

Hello! Thank you for having me. I am very well - and hope the same for you.

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

My name is Vincent John. I am a songwriter, musician; producer and artist.

Tell me about Shiny Car. What is the song about? Did it come together easily?

Shiny Car started out as an instrumental. I had just finished releasing my debut, Never Go Back, and felt this was a step in the right direction for the next batch of songs and, at the same time, an extension of Never Go Back.

It is taken from the E.P., Tangerine. Can you reveal the subjects and stories that compelled the songs? What sort of topics inspired you during its creation?

I pull from my own life and the lives of those close to me for inspiration. Occasionally, political themes creep in - but my intention is to create music that makes people feel good. I try to create metaphors for those themes when they do arise.

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The E.P. brings together classic recording with some modern touches. Is it important you blend the old and new in your music?

Absolutely. Most of the music I love dates back to the '60s thru the '80s. But, it is important to me to try to bridge the gap between what inspires me and what most people relate to these days. It’s not easy but, in the end, it is very gratifying.

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You have worked with Lee Fields, Nicole Wray and Aaradhna. Have those experiences been impactful and important?!

Working with these people has been a gift. All of those individuals, as well as ones not mentioned, have been very important to me as a person and an artist. I have an immense respect for those who I collaborate for and with. Not only are those some of my favorite artists, they are friends and role models who I consider myself lucky to know.

Which artists inspired you to get into music? Who do you count as influences?

I grew up listening to Motown. My mother loved the '60s and '70s Pop music, so that’s what I was listening to in my formative years. It’s hard to pin down one favorite but, for what it’s worth, I think the best (Soul) singers who ever lived are Sam Cooke and Marvin Gaye.

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Philadelphia is where you are based. What is the area like in regards to music? Is it a good place to perform?

Philadelphia is known as a hotbed for Indie Rock and R&B. I love to perform in Philadelphia. It is my home and I’m proud of it. My favorite venues would have to be The Fillmore, Union Transfer and Johnny Brenda’s.

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

Yes! We are booking dates in PHL, N.Y.C. and L.A. right now for 2018. Stay tuned for more info soon.

Do you think you’ll play the U.K. this year? Do you like the music coming out of here?

I would love to make it across the pond with this project this year. I do tend to like a lot of what’s coming out of the U.K. these days - Michael Kiwanuka, Alex Francis; Pale Waves and Fishbach…to name a few.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Pale Waves

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

A broader awareness of the music I am making for a generation in flux. I hope the records can brighten someone’s day every day...

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

I played L’Olympia in Paris with Lee Fields this January 2018. That was pretty moving. The Beatles, and countless others, have played there.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do as much as you can yourself to ensure your vision is not obscured. This day in age, you have to wear many hats, but don’t let the records suffer as a result - that’s always got to be number-one.

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

I honestly don’t lately, but I am happiest when I am busy working. Occasionally, I’ll go on a vinyl buying tear - but that’s not really getting away from music, is it?! (laughs).

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).

William Onyeabor - Good Name

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INTERVIEW: Jazz Mino

INTERVIEW:

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Jazz Mino

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THIS is not the first time I have featured Jazz Mino…

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on these pages. She has been talking about her new single, Warriors, and how it differs from her much-loved interpretation of Crush. The songwriter reveals new artists she is responding to; what it is like being based in London; whether she has had time to reflect on a busy, successful 2017 – she looks ahead to gigs and ambitions for this year.

I ask Mino whether there will be more material and how she crafts that incredible stage presence. She selects her favourite albums and reveals some important advice for new artists – telling me how she spends her time away from music.

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

It’s been great, thanks, despite the miserable rain in London! Spent my weekend trying to battle the weather, failing...and then settling on hiding inside and finishing up my Easter eggs.  

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

Hey, everyone. My name is Jazz and I’m a singer-songwriter most known for my single, Crush, which hit number-five in the U.K. club charts. I used to hate marmite but now I love it. But, there was a weird transition period where I was sort of ‘meh’; so I still disagree with the slogan (smiles).

Warriors is your current track. Can you reveal the story behind it?

I think I speak for a quite a few people when I say 2017 was a pretty rough year and I really wanted to write a song about standing together and knowing that, no matter how bad things get, your squad have always got your back. I needed a song that would uplift me on those days where I’m down - and I really achieved that with Warriors. When I listen to it, it gets me into the mindset of being able to achieve anything.

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How does it differ from previous tracks like Crush? Did you adopt a new persona and colour scheme for Warriors?

Crush was quite a playful track about not over-thinking things and I think Warriors shows a different, bolder side to my personality. Singing Warriors makes me feel more connected to my friends and fans, as it’s about how they’ve made me feel and the confidence and courage they’ve given me to rise up through difficult times.

The colour theme for Warriors is blue/double denim. I associate the blue with feeling downbeat and double denim is something which has really come back and started trending again over past year. So, the theme is sort of a play on this: feeling down and coming back with a bang….

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Do you think we all need to find strength and togetherness this year? How important is music in that regard?

I do and it’s very important to me that my music speaks from the heart. I strongly believe that, if we all support each other more and give out more kindness, the world still might not be perfect but it would be an easier place to live. We live in a very individualistic world where the focus is on bettering yourself in all aspects of life - leaving no time to spare for anybody else.

In London, it’s very easy to get completely caught up in this idea and, whilst I think it’s healthy to have goals and focus, there needs to be more of a balance. For me, life isn’t just about self-improvement; it’s about embracing each moment and sharing happiness and laughter amongst others.

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Will we see more material later this year? What are you working on?

I might have a few more releases planned for this year! You’ll just have to keep posted on my socials (smiles).

(Vero – Search ‘Jazz Mino’ for new song previews and exclusives).

You had a busy 2017! Have you had time to take it all in? Do you feel you have grown in confidence as a songwriter?

The past six months have been a bit of a whirlwind but, to be honest, I’ve just tried to enjoy everything as it comes and it’s been a great 2018 so far. In terms of songwriting; I’ve definitely got more confident with speaking my mind and putting out music that I’m really proud of and love. When you put your all into something and it connects with you on such a deep level, it’s the best feeling to hear that it’s connecting with others in the same way. 

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What is it like living in London? Does the city provide inspiration for you? Is it quite challenging finding that work-relax balance?

I really love London but, yeah, it can be tricky finding a work-life balance…especially when I love working on my music. But, no matter how much you love something, I’ve realised, over the past few months, that you still need a mental break. I work from home a lot, songwriting and recording, and it’s so easy to let a whole day slip by without even going outside.

Lately, I’ve been making a conscious effort to make sure I give myself a proper lunch break completely unrelated to music - and it’s really helped this balance and to get some perspective.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’m very much focused on enjoying everything as it comes along; so, I guess I don’t have any strict goals. I’m looking forward to releasing some new material and hoping that it connects with everyone as much as my last three singles do. I love singing my stuff live, too, so I’m also looking forward to playing more gigs.

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

Right now, my favourite albums are:

Someone Out There – Rae Morris

Don’t Kill My Vibe (E.P.) – Sigrid

Melodrama – Lorde

Can we catch you perform anytime soon? What dates do you have coming up?

Yeah. My next London show is:

18th April: The Old Queen’s Head, London. Tickets available here.

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Your performances and stage manner has been praised. Do you feel at your most comfortable on the stage?

Being on stage and singing my heart out is one of my favourite things to do in the entire world. There is just no feeling like it. I really do give my everything on stage and being up there, communicating my inner-most thoughts, vulnerabilities and feelings is euphoric. I love sharing my music online with the world but I think there’s something so special about connecting with my fans at a live gig.

I also tend to play all my unreleased material at gigs, so it’s nice for my fans to get a sneak preview of what’s next on the release radar!

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

That time one of my favourite artists, Oliver Nelson, got in touch to say he wanted to remix my song! That’s a big high of my music career so far. Also; being championed by one of the senior editors at Spotify for my voice and live performance. He literally changed my life and continues to support my music. 

To be honest, there are so many amazing highlights! I feel incredibly humbled and grateful.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself, trust yourself and don’t let anybody make you feel less than...

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently came across the Indie-Pop band, Zkeletonz, who I highly recommend. I saw them live for the first time last week and they were brilliant! So full energy and fun.

My other favourites of 2018 are Rae Morris, ALMA; Lauv, Sigrid; RAYE, Grace Grundy and Tara Carosielli.

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IN THIS IMAGE: ALMA

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

I have little time, but I’m trying to make the most of that time. When everything is always so exciting, it’s hard to turn your head away for even a second - but, I’m learning to appreciate and love my downtime just as much as music.

I love running, long walks in the park and catching up with friends and my family. One of my sisters is pregnant at the moment, so that’s really exciting (and it’s the first time I’ll be an auntie!).

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).

One of my favourite songs and artists at the moment...

Atletico (The Only One)  – Rae Morris

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INTERVIEW: Comfort

INTERVIEW:

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Comfort

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MY eyes are cast across the musical landscape…

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in search of great bands that can fill festival tents and stand in the mind. There is a lot of competition out there but, riding near the top of the pack, we have Comfort. The guys chat to me about their Comfort EP and what sort of ideas go into it; whether there is a song that stands aside; how they all got together – whether we can see them tour this year at all.

I learn which artists inspire them and how they spend downtime away from music; what their base of Brighton is like in terms of opportunities and vibe; they choose a song each to end the album – recommending a great new artist to look out for.

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

Brendan: Hey! So far, so good. Been writing some demos in my bedroom and getting some stuff recorded, which is exciting me.

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

We are a three-piece born and bred on the South Coast. We’ve been together since late-2016 and have been writing and recording by ourselves ever since. We like to push ourselves, genre-wise, and aren’t really tied down to a cookie-cutter format of writing songs. That’s why it’s exciting to be in this band: we kind of just write and play how we feel in that time, whilst obviously not straying too far to the point of people not recognising the band.

Your Comfort EP is new. Can you describe the stories and ideas that influenced the songwriting?

Yeah. It came out on 2nd April after a string of singles released since January. Well, the four tracks were all the really early solo demos I made and we decided to spend time over the band’s duration to make them the best they can sound but still hold onto the energy of when they were created. That’s why we thought it was nice to release the songs in order and not lose them. The early stuff was very influenced by a strenuous and deeply affecting relationship with my first love, and the songs were just an expression of what I was feeling at the time.

Comfort is pretty literal in that regard and was sort of written as an emotional release; Pass Me the Syrup and Their Laughter Is a Killer were attempts to counteract sadness with wigged-out fun. In the end, we felt they all deserved to be on the debut E.P. as an introduction and expression of that specific time in our lives.

Is there a track from the E.P. you would select as highlights?

I think Comfort. It’s hard to have an opinion on my own songs, but there is something about that track for me, personally. Musically, it’s dreamy and hazy but also directed. Really, it’s a just a vulnerable, messy love song. The person in that song does feel kind of weak and defeated in parts and bold and positive in others; the topsy-turvy-ness I like. Lyrically, it was kind of hard to put out there as it was so personal, but now that it has transcended that emotion, I just like the track sonically. Pass Me the Syrup is probably the consensus, though.

That’s fun to play….

How did Comfort get together? Is it true you are all childhood friends?

It started out as demos by myself. The songs were very different to what I had made in the past and think that was a direct reaction to my messy emotions at the time. Then, James and Jake joined me and we made it work in a live setting and we continued to grow from there. Jake and James adding parts, writing drums and bass lines; working off each other to push the songs to another place.

Yeah, we’re all childhood friends who have had many musical projects separately and together - but we kind of looped back around and started making music again together, which is awesome.

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Can you remember the music you were listening to back then? Are there particular artists that inspired you to start a band?

Yeah, for sure. I think the early stuff we got into that made us realise that music wasn’t just the charts were Nirvana, Radiohead; Jeff Buckley…around the ages of sixteen-eighteen or so. I mean, there are loads. I specifically remember listening to Nirvana for the first time when I was, like, eleven and thinking: ‘Woah… this is a big deal’.

What is Brighton like in terms of inspiration and its people? Is it a great city to perform in?

Brighton is just a small, artistic; bohemian, unique little hub of creativity. It’s a great place to perform and just be in. Like any place, it has its ups and downs, but as beach towns go, it’s up there with the best. If it were summer all year round, it would put the cherry on the cake.

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

Our next gig is at The Waiting Room in London. We’re supporting MOHIT alongside Purs. It’s great, as MOHIT are also childhood friends, so all getting to share a space and play together is awesome. We really bounce off of each other, creatively. It’s going to be a good one. Other than that, we are just planning the year ahead gig-wise, with a few exciting things on the horizon.

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How important is it to gig and get onto the stage? Can you describe the sensation of being on stage and performing?

It’s, basically, what you do it for. Writing the songs in a small bedroom, recording for countless hours; mixing, mastering…all that, it’s just so we can get on a stage and connect with an audience face to face. As I’m also an actor, the ‘performance’ side of things is really important to me. For me, anyway, it’s kind of a hazy feeling on stage. I blink and the set is over. Not to say I don’t enjoy myself, but all forms of performance I kind of float away. I think I need to ground myself sometimes. Hopefully, that doesn’t sound too silly...

Making sure not to think too much is key, I guess but I also love the idea of real honed stagecraft and showmanship; so, pushing into that direction would be awesome. People not just seeing yet another gig, but a show. We’ll hopefully get there one day. For now, though yeah; it’s just us playing instruments and having fun. The show is kind loose and carefree at the moment, which is a blast.

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

That’s always such a hard question…but I guess I would go with Kid A by Radiohead

I know that’s kind of an easy answer. It’s just a daring record. Divisive, important and timeless. It means a lot to me, personally, and inspired my approach to songwriting, like, hang on; why can’t music just be music and not a tick box of genre pleasing tables and graphs?!

James: Mine is Sketches for My Sweetheart the Drunk by Jeff Buckley

My reasons for this are because it's the first album/mixtape I heard that didn't have to be a certain way. Capturing the energy and ideas of the songs with so much rawness. Its low-fi vibe makes you feel like you're there. A very inclusive body of work.

Jake: Doolittle by Pixies

I learned to play by listening to that album on-repeat and working out the bass lines. It's pretty much why everything I write is so simple. Alternative answer: Willennium - It's a fuc*ing masterpiece.

What do you all hope to achieve in 2018?

Brendan: I’ll just settle for nice weather and good tele at Christmas. Lots of shows and more recording with new and exciting people would be nice, too. We’re currently working on the follow-up singles and E.P. and would be lovely if we kept up the momentum of releases and get stuff out, sooner rather than later.

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

For this band, specifically; I guess recording the debut E.P. We recorded at Nice Weather for Airstrikes Studios in Puburough and just being in the countryside for the weekend, hashing out these songs I wrote on a laptop in my bedroom; it was, creatively, very rewarding. Also, recording and mixing it ourselves was a great learning experience and added to the personal vibe of the songs.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Blimey. I don’t really feel like I can give advice as we’re basically babies in this industry. I guess: don’t ever compromise on your craft, have fun; be kind and polite to people and don’t forget why you wanted to do it in the first place.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been listening to Anna Burch’s new record, Quit the Curse, on-repeat, so I’d give that a go. A lot of new music that people are fawning over isn’t quite hitting me - but there is some great stuff out there if you look hard enough.

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

The other night, I watched, like, six hours of golf, which is like meditation to me. I love the outdoors too, like the woods, especially - but I don’t get myself motivated enough to go regularly. I’m a very frantic person, mentally and physically, so chilling is important, otherwise, I’ll just burn myself out before dinner. Reading. Watching movies. All the usual, nice stuff…

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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).

Great, cheers!

Brendan: Unknown Mortal Orchestra - American Guilt

Jake: Air – Sexy Boy

James: Ski Mask The Slump God - Catch Me Outside

It's a loose-trap record with references to cartoons I watched growing up - and, also, captures a moment in time

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Follow Comfort

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INTERVIEW: Dead Man’s Knee

INTERVIEW:

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Dead Man’s Knee

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WITH a fantastic single out there….

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it was a good moment to speak with Dead Man’s Knee and find out more. They talk about Pleasure and what inspired the single. They tell me about their formation and influences such as Funkdaelic; whether there is more material brewing in the camp – the members each choose an album that means a lot to them.

The Rock band reveal what they do when not making music; new artists worth looking out for; what sort of gigs they have lined up; if they each have a favourite memory from their time in music – the guys all select a kick-ass song to conclude the interview.

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

Hi. It’s been a pretty good week. We’ve all been busy promoting our new single, Pleasure. It seems to be going pretty well - and we’re happy with the reception it’s been getting.

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

Well. We’re a four-piece Rock band from London called Dead Man’s Knee. Angelos is a Greek living in London and he plays the guitar; George is also a Greek living in London and he plays the bass; Leonn is our drummer; he’s from Walthamstow in North East London and Del is from Brixton in South London and he plays the guitar and sings. 

I like the sound of Pleasure. How did the song come together? What inspired it?

Pleasure was one of the very first songs we ever wrote together but it went through about three different versions before we settled on the version that we finally released. The melody and the lyrics stayed pretty much the same as they are now - but the music changed drastically.

Musically, the song was inspired by a wide range of things; underneath all of the distorted guitars and the Blues influences that are pretty obvious to the ear. There’s this '60s R&B and Motown vibe in the drums and bass. It’s a song for dancing.

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It, in a way, rallies against the image of Rock. What do you think of the new breed of Rock/Punk bands? Does the return of a band like Arctic Monkeys hint at a genuineness that has been missing?

The intention wasn’t so much going against the image of Rock per se: it was more saying you don’t have to do what everyone else expects you to do; you should be able to live your life in a way that makes you happy without feeling guilty about what you like or ashamed for enjoying yourself. We don’t really have a set opinion on the new Rock and Punk bands that are out there. As is always the case, some are good some are not to our taste...

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We’ve said before, we really like what Royal Blood are doing. We also really like what Nothing But Thieves have been doing as well. As for Arctic Monkeys; we’re excited to see where they go musically after AM. That had a lot of different influences; from Hip-Hop and R&B mixed into their core sound (and made for an exciting record).

How did Dead Man’s Knee come together? Did you instantly know you set up a band?

Del and Angelos had known each other through George and some other mutual friends for a while - but had never played in the same bands because most of what we did as session musicians only required one guitarist.

So, as an excuse to play together, we decided to have some late-night jams and things kind of kept going from there. We all really enjoyed the music that we were making together, so we just kept doing it and started writing songs based on bits of those jams. At some point, we decided we should give ourselves a name and, now, here we are...

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I hear shades of Funkadelic in your tones. Which artists are most important you all?

We love Funkadelic, so we’re glad you can hear that influence in what we’re doing.

We’ve got such a mixed bag of important influences from the Blues legends like Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker and the Chess Records artists to the Gospel influences of Andre Crouch and the Edward Hawkins Singers; from Led Zeppelin and AC/DC down to Queens of the Stone Age and The Foo Fighters.

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Might we see more material later this year? What are you guys working on?

Right now, we are working on an E.P. called Fear of Flying - Pleasure is actually the first single from that project. We’re intending to put out another single from that later this year and then the E.P. should be ready for release towards the end of the year.

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

Angelos: AC/DC – Who Made Who

Because it was the first album I bought when I was eight-years-old and it made me want to play the guitar and be in a Rock band.

Del: It’s really, really hard to select just one - but I’ll say Lewis Taylor’s first album. It’s just called Lewis Taylor and it’s one of those albums I’ve never stopped listening to since the first time I heard it.

George: Miles Davis - In a Silent Way

Because it’s optimistic, it’s dirty; it’s stressful, it’s peaceful; it’s a constant journey through feelings and emotions.

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

Playing in front of an audience is where we are most at home and the songs really shine in a live environment. As of right now, we don’t have any gigs booked in but we are working on some festivals for the summer and we’re hopeful that, once the E.P has been released, it’ll get enough support for us to get out on a small tour.

If people keep up with us on our social media, we’ll be letting everyone know about our next shows as soon as we’ve got everything confirmed.

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If you had the chance to support any artist, and choose any rider; what would that include?

If we could support any artist on tour right now it would probably be the Foo Fighters. As for the rider; we’ll take everything on the menu times four, please.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

The plan for 2018 is to get the E.P. finished and get that released so people can start hearing who we are and what we bring to the table; then get out on the road and let people come and see and hear how we do it live. It’d be nice to really get a good buzz going so that we have something to springboard onto the next phase of our evolution as a band…

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

Angelos: Most of my friends come from music and are musicians so, whenever I see friends, I have happy musical memories

Del: Every time I look around on stage and realise I’m playing music I love with friends I love. Sometimes, it can be very overwhelming realising how lucky I am to be able to do that.

George: I have way too many memorable music moments to be able to choose just one: my whole life is music.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep doing what you do because you love it, and don’t give up on your dreams: keep chasing them until you catch them because, eventually, you will…

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IN THIS PHOTO: Michael Jablonka

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Michael Jablonka, Kadija Kamara; Jodie Abacus, Sebastian Blake; Marli Artiste; Neon Family, K N DÉ and Blue Lab Beats.

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IN THIS PHOTO: K N DÉ

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

We all enjoy spending downtime with our respective families and we like a bit of sport; mostly basketball, football; boxing or watching Formula 1. Music is always there, though. Even when we’re relaxing; we all have other artists we work with and projects we’re involved with – as well as Dead Man’s Knee. Some for work; others just for fun.

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).

Michael Jablonka – I Found You

Kadija Kamara – Nothing Left to Lose

AC/DC – Ride On

Soundgarden – Black Hole Sun

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Follow Dead Man’s Knee

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INTERVIEW: Unparalleled Height

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Kyle Hines

 Unparalleled Height

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THERE is enough grit and raw power…

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in the arsenal of Unparalleled Height to power a nuclear power station! The Pittsburgh band talk about their music and what they have planned for the future. I ask why they covered Zedd and Alessia Cara’s song, Stay, and what we can expect from their forthcoming album.

The guys talk about influences and the scene in Pittsburgh; whether they are coming to the U.K. this year; what they hope to achieve before the end of the year; how they spend time away from music – they end the interview with some awesome songs!

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

I am doing well! This week has been very exciting in terms of releasing our new single, Stay. It has been great to see the reaction from our fans and new listeners!

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

We are Unparalleled Height; a Metal band from Pittsburgh, PA in the United States. We started the band in 2011 when we were seniors in high-school. We started out, originally, playing shows where we covered songs by bands like Avenged Sevenfold, Bullet for My Valentine etc.

Those bands became our biggest influences as we started writing our own music. Over the course of the last seven years, we have evolved quite a bit. We believe that our newest single, Stay, shows the process of that evolution taking place.

What was the reason behind covering Zedd and Alessia Cara's single, Stay?! Was there something in the song that stood out?

This, truly, began as an idea when had a total shift in the way we began looking at releasing music. We want to keep our fans interested by releasing music between our E.P. and album releases. So, we decided to do a Pop-goes-Punk-esque cover. We wanted to challenge ourselves by covering a Pop song. We really enjoy taking songs and making them our own. It is fun and a totally different process than writing original music.

The reason behind doing Stay is that our vocalist, Dave, is actually a fan of Alessia Cara. We took a look at a few different Pop songs that were rather popular and decided that Stay was a great choice for many reasons.

Was it quite hard transforming the song and producing the version you have out?!

Truthfully; it came together much faster than we anticipated. This song came together rather naturally.

How long did it take to get the song together? Were there quite a few different takes?

The outline of the song came together in a little over a week.

We had a pretty good vision of what we wanted the song to be like and then we executed it rather fast! The guitar solos and other production elements took some additional time to piece together. Even with this, the actual writing of the song did not too long!

Is there going to be more material coming soon? What are you working out?

The first volume of Resurgence, a two-E.P. feature, was released back in September 2017. That is available worldwide on all platforms: iTunes, Spotify; Apple Music, etc. Resurgence, Vol. 2 will be released in the near-future. We are very excited about it. It has a somewhat different feel and vibe than Volume 1. There has not been a definitive release date set for it yet, but that will be coming very shortly.

How did Unparalleled Height get together? How did you all find out another?

CJ (Lead Guitar), Justin (Drums) and I actually all went to school together as far back as middle-school. Some of the other original members were in the same boat as well. We played in concert band together back then. As we grew older, we all developed a very similar taste in Rock and Metal.

One summer, before our senior year of high-school, CJ, Justin and I got together and jammed. The rest is pretty much history after that! We met our bassist, Marshall, in college. Things naturally clicked!

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What sort of music did you all grow up around?

Each one of us would have a different answer here - and I can only speak for myself. I grew up around many different kinds. My mom is very into Classic-Rock and other great artists such as Elton John and Stevie Wonder. I grew up around a lot of Classic-Rock and artists like that!

Pittsburgh is where you are based. Is there quite a big and active scene there?

That really would depend on who you talk to, I guess. For us, we really aren't a part of the Pittsburgh music scene. Our following began to grow in a national and global way ever since we started releasing music. So, for us, we are in a little bit of a different situation. I do have many friends that are a part of the Pittsburgh music scene...

I want nothing but the best for it!

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

As of right now, we have been focusing, primarily, on getting music out online and trying to get our fans excited as well as attract new listeners. We don't have any gigs lined up at the moment, however; we have been discussing some possible tours.

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Will we see you come over to the U.K.?

I believe it is only a matter of time for that. We have a rather large U.K. following - in proportion to our total following, that is. A lot of our page ‘likes’, followers; streams, etc. come from the U.K. and mainland Europe. Hopefully, we can get over there A.S.A.P. We've had a lot of fans waiting for quite some time.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Stay was a big focus for 2018. The release of Resurgence, Vol. 2 is next up! After that, we have something else, cover-wise, up of our sleeve that we are incredibly excited about. I think people are going to be caught by total surprise in terms of the song. We are looking into some other things at the moment as well that I cannot speak about quite yet! They are quite exciting - and I can't wait until we can share them.

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

I would have to say watching our song, Embrace the Storm, played on NBC Sports during World Series of Fighting would be up there for me, personally. That was awesome to see.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

That is a tough question....

There are so many details I could go on about. I think the most important thing is to truly develop a strong mindset and resilience. I think, if artists can do that, it will solve 95% of their problems that they will meet along the way. If you stay in the game long enough and work hard at it, success will eventually find you if you make great music. That is the most important thing: make great music.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Personally, I have been very into a lot of different stuff. There are so many great artists out there; it would be hard for me to name only a few!

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

I really enjoy working out. It is a great way for me to release a lot of stress and emotion in a positive way.

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

Polaris - Consume

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INTERVIEW: jellyskin

INTERVIEW:

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jellyskin

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IT has been a real ball…

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speaking with Will and Zia of jellyskin. The guys talk to me about their new single, Judder, and what its story is. I ask where they are heading now and what new material is coming; if they have tour dates booked and, as they are based in Leeds; I was curious to ask what the scene is like in the North.

The duo reveals new acts to watch and what music they are inspired by; how they spend their time away from music; what sort of music they grew up around – they provide some useful advice for new artists.

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

Will: Yeah, alright. It was nice to release some new music because we haven’t done that in a long while.

Zia: We’re in our final year at uni, so things are getting a bit stressful - but putting music out always cheers me up!

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

Will: I’m Will and I play the guitar and sing a bit and tend to make most of the beats.

Zia: I’m Zia and I sing and play synth.

How did ‘jellyskin’ come to be? Zia and Will. How did you come to work with one another?

Will: We met at uni and started going out, and then decided to make music. I think it’s a bit problematic if you get bands that were first bands and then people start getting involved with each other. We had a life before the band for almost a year before we started jellyskin. I reckon it must be quite weird to start going out with a bandmate; almost like a cousin or something, but y’know, as they say, each to their own...

Zia: When we first got together, Will was in another band and I was making my own stuff, but we were always on the same wavelength in terms of the music we listened to or created. After a while, we thought it’d be fun to start our own band…

Judder is your new single. What is the story behind it?

It was a sketch that Will brought to the table and it was so promising. I helped to flesh it out with some ideas I had and we spent a bit of time honing it, then recorded it with our friend Theo Cookson at his studio. He engineered and co-produced the song, which was a great experience because he’s enormously talented and a really positive creative influence on us.

Will: It was nice having another pair of ears as, before Theo’s input, it was a little more monotonous; he encouraged us to break the song up a bit. I used his steel pan on the song too which was fun.

Zia: In the past, we’ve really enjoyed shooting music videos for our songs so we definitely wanted to release Judder with its own video. I think the visual aspect of the band is really important as it adds that extra bit of depth.

It was great to film in the Hyde Park Picture House as it’s such an iconic place.

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Do you feel there will be more material coming later this year?

Definitely - and we can’t wait! We’ve got a couple of songs that are pretty much finished that we’re so excited about - we’ve got the writing bug at the moment.

Will: We’ll hopefully record them soon - and they’ll be out over summer.

Listening to Judder; it seems you have changed courses and stepped away from that dreamy sound. What was the decision behind that?

I suppose we just decided to make music with a bit more bite and we were probably just listening to more abrasive music. I like to think I listen to a wide range of music, but what usually happens is that I kind of oscillate between different types of music.

At the moment, I’m listening to poppy, pure ‘happy’ stuff like Michael Farneti, the Alessi Brothers; Arthur Lyman and Esquivel but, if I remember during Judder, I was exposed to the delights of artists like Kahn, Commodo and Pinch, and revisited stuff like Throbbing Gristle, Sote; Neubaten etc.

Zia: It wasn’t a conscious decision as such, but we definitely resented being categorised as a ‘Shoegaze’ band just because our first couple of releases half-fitted that description. We love trying new things. As lame as it sounds, we don’t want to be pigeon-holed as a certain type of band in one genre. As Will said, Judder was spawned from a period of listening to a certain type of music and that, inevitably, infiltrates your creative mindset.

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Leeds is where you are based. What is the music scene like there? Do you think the North gets as much respect as it deserves?!

Will: It’s alright. We’re never sure whether there’s a ‘scene’ there or not and, even if there is; I don’t reckon we’re part of it - we wouldn’t want to be. We just like to do our own thing. Scenes have a tendency to be very cliquey - if they’re based around similarities in sound - so it’s probably best to (just) have a load of people doing different things in the same place, rather than any ‘scene’.

That’s an interesting question. I’d say that it probably does, simply for its long history of producing amazing stuff. It’s like anywhere, really. Everyone’s aware of music that’s come out of Manchester, Sheffield etc. Obviously, London seems a focal point for music and maybe this diverts a little attention away from smaller places like Bristol, Sheffield or Leeds for the ‘average’ music fan who isn’t hell-bent on finding new artists. But, in terms of respect, I think it garners lots of it.

Zia: The North is the best! We don’t feel part of a ‘scene’ but we’re very much aware and mutually supportive where we can be of other local bands, i.e. Hookworms, Team Picture; Girl Sweat etc. who are all fantastic in their own right. The North has that special atmosphere that you can’t quite pinpoint - the creative communities in the North just feel friendlier, more accepting and less ‘cliquey’ and stifling than some of the London scenes, which sometimes come across as unwelcoming or just too broad. But, yeah; as Will said, we don’t want to be lumped in with a group of bands – although, we’re supportive of our fellow strugglers.

Will: Also, with a ‘scene’; you will always be considered alongside and in relation to other bands. What people think of you isn’t hugely important, but it must be a bit disheartening for every comment to mention three other of your contemporaries.

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What sort of music did you grow up around? Did you each come into music through different paths?

Pretty classic stuff that has mostly stayed with me like Doves, The La’s (an all-time favourite) and Stone Roses - fairly homogenous stuff, but good nonetheless. I grew up in Bristol so I was also exposed to Massive Attack, Portishead; Tricky - all that good stuff - and they’ve all stayed with me.

It took until I was about fourteen-fifteen to really start immersing myself in music. The main route in was having friends that were all getting into music at the same time, as well as all playing in bands and later on putting on gigs. So, you’re just exposed to more stuff earlier on and get that hunger to play live sooner. Having a good independent record shop (Trading Post in Stroud) was definitely influential too.

Zia: My parents were both active in the '70s/'80s Liverpool Punk scene, so I’ve always been into that stuff - but they have a whopping music collection that I’ve always been surrounded by, e.g. lashings of Dub, '60s Pop;  techno, The B-52’s, Patti Smith; Soft Cell etc…just anything and everything really. As I got into my teenage years, I started expanding my knowledge a lot more as well and really delved deeper into the things I was brought up on like The Doors, Nick Cave...

I could honestly go on about my favourite music forever; so I’ll just stop it there.

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Are there tour dates approaching? Where can we see you play?

Will: We’ve got a few things in the pipeline that are yet to be announced but follow us on social media to stay up to date.

Zia: Towards the end of May/early-June we’ll be out and about, so keep an eye out!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Will: We’d love to do some bigger gigs and play new places. We really want to play a festival or two in 2019. That’s the dream.

Zia: My hopes for 2018 are to play to larger audiences, go on tour with a band we love and release some more music that we’re proud of. Glasto 2019 is one of my ultimate goals.

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

Will: The first Velvet Underground album is unequalled for me. It’s as close to perfection that anyone’s got. Sublime. I think it was the first thing Zi noticed when she first came round my flat, too…

Zia: Yeah. The Velvet Underground & Nico is a special one for us. I think I’m going to go for Nuggets: Original Artyfacts from the First Psychedelic Era, 1965-1968, as it’s just loaded with memories for me; blasting it out of the car on family holidays, meeting Will; parties with friends…it’s the king of compilations. (Assembled in 1972 by Lenny Kaye, who went on to be the lead guitarist for the Patti Smith Group). I just love that it’s a collection of amazing songs by bands that never quite ‘made it’ in the '60s - it’s an important, influential time capsule.

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

Will: Supporting The Moonlandingz at The Leadmill was amazing. It’s the biggest place we’ve played and it was just a great experience. I also got recognised by Faris from The Horrors after one of their gigs in Leeds. We’d sent our music to them months previously and, for some reason, he remembered my face. They’re one of my all-time favourites, so that was pretty crazy.

Zia: I was so annoyed that I wasn’t with Will for that Faris encounter. Playing The Leadmill was pretty overwhelming (in the best way). But, we recently played a brand-new song at a gig and it went so well that we couldn’t stop grinning on stage - little moments like that are my favourite!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Will: Practically-speaking: just shout about your band/project as much as you can. Send your music to anyone you can: you never know who’s going to listen. Even if someone sees your name in the email or whatever and doesn’t think anything of it, if they chance upon your name again, it’ll ring a bell and they might check you out.

Also, write as much as you can. Have band practice as much as you can. I always remember what (John) Cale said about how he and Lou felt about making music in The Velvets: he said: “The work is more fun than the fun”.

I would also downsize as much as you can; it’ll make you think about arrangements and song structure more, also…life’s too short to be worrying whether the third guitarist will make it to band practice.

Zia: Don’t worry about pleasing everyone. I can be thin-skinned at times but I’m also good at not caring what people think about me or the band. You’ve got to focus on pursuing songs and making decisions that are right for you, before anyone else. You know your band best and if someone gives you advice or makes you an offer that doesn’t sit right, don’t feel guilty about not taking it. 

Get some material behind you before you start making social media accounts and booking gigs, too. Write, rehearse; perform and spread your band’s juicy seeds wherever you can.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Will: Some of these aren’t ‘new’ per se, but they are yet to find widespread popularity: Girl Sweat, The Fishing Party; Warmduscher and Happa.

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IN THIS IMAGE: The cover for Warmduscher's album,Whale City/ IMAGE CREDIT: Brian Rose

Zia: Mysteron from Sheffield! They deserve to be huge. They’re one of the most interesting bands out there - think Scott Walker covering The Fall.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Mysteron/PHOTO CREDIT: Duncan Sandelind Stafford 

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

Will: I suppose, in time spent outside of the band I like going to gigs, listening to music; partying, complaining - all the usual stuff. In terms of non-musical things, I try to read lots (usually fiction). I like (James) Joyce, (John) Steinbeck and Laurie Lee amongst others. Most of my interests are based on music, though.

Zia: As I mentioned before, we’re snowed under with uni work so it’s a frenzied time but, when we do get time to relax, we might stick on a Disney film with a glass of wine. I also keep a sketchbook, as I find it very relaxing to sketch and paint whilst listening to music. One of my main pastimes, though, is getting trapped in a YouTube vortex - it happens almost nightly.

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).

Will: Seabird by the Alessi Brothers - This is my new musical obsession; there’s something very special about this song. I’m not really sure what it is though. You’ll have to listen to understand

Zia: I Heard Wonders by David Holmes - Also my new musical obsession; an absolutely magical song with not one single note of gloominess. Probably one of the most uplifting songs in the world - and it’s helped me through a really stressful time. With Martin Rev on lead vocals, how could you not love it?! I like to pretend this song soundtracks a jellyskin tour video montage when I listen to it…one day!

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INTERVIEW: Little Grace

INTERVIEW:

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 Little Grace

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I have been speaking with Little Grace…

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about their latest song, Higher Ground, and what its story is. They speak effusively about its creation and the sensation of hearing it on tape; what it was like working on the video for the track; which album the guys hold dearest – they let me know whether there are any gigs coming up.

I was keen to know how the band came together and whether they share a love of the same music; whether their base of Liverpool is thriving right now; what they have planned for the rest of the year – the guys select some new artists worth a second look.

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

Hey. It’s been good; busy, but productive/creative as ever. It feels great to be releasing music again!

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

We’re an Electronic-R&B band from in-between Liverpool and Manchester. We’ve been creating, collaboratively, for a few years now and searching for our sound.

Higher Ground is your new track. What is the inspiration and story behind it?

The concept of Higher Ground came from a true place at the time of writing…

I’d just come out of a relatively long-term relationship, and I felt that the last time we spoke was something that I wanted to document. It was important to understand that I wasn’t the only person in the world going through the motions of this at the time.

I met other people in the same position and, at that moment, it felt right for me to share my experience in a way which I could help these friends going through something similar.

The video looks like it was quite an intense and passionate experience! What was it like filming it?

After watching the director’s material and seeing what he was doing for his local scene, we felt like Jay Bannister was the right guy to go with. He understood our concept and also liked the tune, so was able to transpose our ideas into the video. We had discussed the idea of having passionate yet aggressive dancing (argument through dance if you will) and he comes through with Shameer and Anna, who both killed it.

The dancers work with each other regularly, so they seemed to be very comfortable with each other and the whole video is freestyled, too - so it was pretty impressive to see this dance just coming straight from the sounds they were hearing.

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Do you think there will be more material later in the year?

100%. We’ve spent quite some time going through some intense situations and emotions and writing about them; so, it’s definitely about time we share them with people.

How did Little Grace form? When did you all meet one another?

We actually all got together, musically, when we were about seventeen/eighteen. It started off as a college thing: about five or six of us started writing and doing covers together then, as we all went to different universities, we stuck together as a trio.

Was a shared bond of music the reason for the formation? By that; did you all form because of a love of the same artists?

I think, subconsciously, yes. We had a relatively small friendship group in school and each of us had our own tastes; we all clicked initially with our love for early R&B and Soul/Motown artists. Then, as the years have progressed, each of our music tastes has grown.

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You are based in Liverpool. What is it about the city that compels and attracts? Is it quite an active music scene there right now?

We’re actually based in the suburbs of Liverpool; pretty much between Liverpool & Manchester. We spent our early years around Liverpool, but now, we try and work around both cities. Liverpool’s starting to get interesting, though.

A lot more artists are noticing that you can be based in Liverpool and not have to sound like The Beatles, which is refreshing; especially when you’ve been trying to make something a bit different for a while – and, more recently, producers and other artists are breaking through. It just adds and assists the scene - and everyone is pretty supportive of each other which is great.

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

We’ve been working hard on our live performance in the run-up to the release of Higher Ground in a bid to portray the right image and story to a crowd when playing live. Whilst doing so, we’ve been keeping our want to play live satisfied by playing Sofar Sounds across the country to see the physical reactions of the public when hearing our material.

Our main priority, right now, is getting track two out...

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

Ben: John Legend - Get Lifted

I chose this one because I remember my college tutor showing it to me when I was about sixteen/seventeen and I was obsessed with it (and always go back to it). It’s just a timeless classic. I love John Legend’s writing and his tone and (just) the way that the album carries itself in terms of narrative.

Adam: George Benson - Give Me the Night  

I always find myself going back to this album for inspiration or nostalgia. The man is a Jazz genius and this album holds some of his more Pop-based material. The main reason for this being my choice is that the album was always played in my house whilst my mum was cleaning or decorating. Even my dad played it in the car: an overall family favourite that brings good childhood memories.

Callum: The Streets - Original Pirate Material

This album was passed down to me from my brother; I remember reading somewhere that the vocals were done in Skinner’s wardrobe. That kind of independence for some reason really stood out to me, as it was the first kind of project that I’d listened to that didn’t have a massive studio budget but, somehow, had this magnificent, modern sound to it. As I grew up and paid more attention to the social side of the album, I then realised just how much of an impact on a scene this had.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Right now, we’re focusing on putting out music: this is still very new to us and a lot has changed within the industry since we last released, so we’re learning a lot as we’re going. We’re just looking to reach out to people and get as many people as possible to relate to our music.

Of course; it would be great to play a few more established gigs and maybe even some festivals next year; so, we’re just building up a profile to enable us to do that.

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

Ben: I’d say my personal favourite memory to date was probably writing this track, Higher Ground. Initially, both Adam and myself went to vocal a track for the producer of the track, Dan Casio. After a few hours of doing vocals and finishing the track, Dan turned around and asked us to write a song - and it was a lot of pressure at the time. But, around about three-four hours later, we came up with this track and I was super-proud of it.

Callum: Planning the release of Higher Ground has been something I’ll always remember. Our last few releases have been as a featured artist, so they haven’t been too hands on - but we’ve been able to work with other creatives and really work on getting the concept through.

Adam: As Ben and Callum both stated; it was completely refreshing to both have the ability to write and produce Higher Ground with Danny Casio. The process felt very natural and everything just fell into place.

I remember sitting in the room with Ben and Danny after writing the song and listening to the first draft; getting shivers realising that we would be releasing it into the world for, potentially, millions of people to listen to and thinking that, if the song benefits one single person, for example, makes them happy or helps them get through a tough situation then my mission is accomplished.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

As cliché as it may sound: just do you.

There is no time like the present; don’t wait around for the right moment because it may never come. You just have to trust your gut instinct and do whatever feels right to you at the time.

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IN THIS PHOTO: XamVolo/PHOTO CREDIT: Robin Clewley 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We’re really liking XamVolo’s work at the moment. The guy is a lyrical genius. We’ve also been blessed enough to work with the likes of Emily Burns, who is killing it right now…annnd there’s Raheem Alameen and IBEN who both have new material coming soon!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Emily Burns/PHOTO CREDIT: Lauren Maccabe

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

When we’re not making music we’re still working part-time but, I guess, making music definitely eases that. We do tend to try and go to watch/listen to live music to gain inspiration as well - but we genuinely have a love for music, so I guess you could say that’s all that we know.

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).

HONNE - Sometimes

XamVolo - Lose Love

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Follow Little Grace

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INTERVIEW: Kid Kapichi

INTERVIEW:

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Kid Kapichi

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ONE of the questions I was keen to ask Kid Kapichi…

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was whether Rock was in a good state. The Hastings-based group discuss that and the influences behind their new E.P., Lucozade Dreams; how they got together and what gigs they have coming up – the guys recommend some cool new artists to watch.

The band tell me about their process and tell me what music they grew up around; if they get a chance to recharge away from music; whether there is a busy music scene down in Hastings; what advice they would give new artists – they end the song with some great song selections.

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

The week’s been wicked; so glad to have the E.P. out finally. Our trip to Scotland, to play some shows, was wicked. It’s left us a bit skint but we’re really excited to get the England shows underway.

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

We’re Kid Kapichi; a four-piece band from Hastings. It’s tricky to describe our sound: it’s kind of a heavy, riff-based thing with a bit of a haunted house vibe. Have a listen and decide for yourself.   

Our line-up is Jack Wilson (Lead Vox/Guitar), Ben Beetham (Lead Vox/Guitar); Eddie Lewis (Bass) and George Macdonald (Drums).

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Lucozade Dreams is your new E.P. What sort of themes and stories inspired the songs?

Lucozade Dreams, as a whole, is based on a caffeine-fuelled lucid dream.

To be honest, on this E.P., there are a few different themes, ranging from our own political views in Machine Men; Getting out of an abusive relationship in Cinderella - and your typical ‘observational night out song’ in Jack Jones.

Is there a cut from the E.P. each of you would select as a highlight?

Jack: I like the fake build-up in the first verse of Puppet Strings

Eddie: I like it at the end of Machine Men - when it all kicks off massive.

Ben: Me and George both love the solo in Cinderella. It’s a well intense bit of the live show to play.

The video for Puppet Strings is out. Can you tell me about the song and its origins?

Jack: It kind of explains it in the first verse, really: it’s about being used as a pawn in someone else’s love game - but you don’t care because you’re not emotionally invested in it.

Will there be gigs to support its release? Where can we see you play?

Ben: We’ve just finished our tour, which went all the way from Inverness to Torquay and ended with a proper sweatbox at our hometown show in Hastings.

Eddie: We’ve got some more shows in May. One at the Bolieroom in Guildford (T.B.C.) and playing at the Lock Tavern in Camden on the 12th as part of Frank Turner’s Lost Evenings festival.

How did Kid Kapichi get together? Did you all know, when you started jamming, this was it for you guys?

Jack: Ben and I had a flat together in Hastings Old Town a few years ago and we both would occasionally write music together. Pretty early on, we wrote a song called Ice Cream and decided to get a band together and gig it out. I knew George and Eddie from school: we used to play at break times in this practice room and loads of people would gather around the window and watch.

Ben: Yeah. As soon as I met those guys and we played together, it was pretty instant that it all felt right.

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You are based down in Hastings. Is there quite a busy scene in that part of East Sussex?!

George: In Hastings, particularly, there’s an insanely good music scene; really diverse and well-high quality of all different genres.

Ben: Yeah. There’s live music that spans across all Jazz, Soul; Blues and Funk-type genres and, in the younger crowd, you’ve got artists like Sam Wills, Folded Like Fabric and Alibi making waves. To be honest, the wildness of the audiences is what adds so much to the scene, too: everyone’s always bang up for it.

Some doubt whether Rock is in good shape. With artists like Black Honey and Royal Blood; do you think Rock is very much alive and well?!

Jack: it’s difficult to say. Personally, I’m always so focused on what we’re doing as a band that I don’t have time to notice what the state of Rock and Roll is. I think I just believe that regardless of what you’re doing, if it is good, it will shine through eventually.

Ben: I think that there’s deffo been a lull in the number of bands in the forefront for the ten years that came before Royal Blood dropped: they sort of reminded everyone that Rock can exist in the mainstream and, since then, it’s been nice to see a gradual increase in the number of bands coming through.

There’s still more ground to be made though, definitely. I think we’re still at the beginning of the revival.

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Who are the artists you all grew up listening to? Did music come into your lives early?

Jack: Luckily, both my parents would always be the types to have music on every day in the house and I’d always be that annoying kid that wanted to know the artist, the track name and the album. It was mostly '60s through to late-'80s. I filled in the rest of the blanks myself.  Everything from The Beatles and The Smiths to Led Zeppelin and the Sex Pistols.

I remember being obsessed with the solo in Hotel California for years and the intro to Whiskey in the Jar. You can’t forget the first time you hear those songs.

Ben: Yeah. There’s always been a lot of live music in my house; from a young age, always people bringing instruments round and having big jams. I played the drums when I was a young kid - but the guitar won in the end.

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

Jack: That’s a really hard one. I think influence-wise for me, personally, it is Amphetamine Ballads by The Amazing Snakeheads.

That was kind of a real turning point for me when I heard that album - and I just kind of got it. I understood where I was going wrong and just felt like a huge door had swung open when it came to writing.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Ben: There are deffo some interesting things happening in the pipeline. Just trying to build our team around us and get some more music and videos out there as the year goes on…and are hoping to (just) gig more and more at bigger shows.

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

As a band, some of the best memories have been the hometown shows when we haven’t played in ages. Every time we do one, we always end it saying: “That was the best Hastings show”.  The E.P. release was mayhem.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Ben: Mainly, just that there’s never any rush to be putting music up before you’re definitely ready. Make recordings for sure and gig out as much as possible, but saying ‘This is us in all our glory’ too early can be the kiss of death sometimes in terms of people getting on board. We were gigging and getting our sh*t together ages before Ice Cream was put out.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: The Kiffs

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jack: Well. You guys are probably more in the know than we are when it comes to new music out there but, within Hastings, there are some great up-and-coming bands. The Kiffs are gonna be amazing. They supported us in Hastings the other day and blew us away. The Mystic Shed are great. Primal raw stuff.

Lucky Girl, who are also supporting us soon, are insanely good. Great name, too.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lucky Girl

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

George: It’s pretty full-on at the moment: there isn’t much time to chill.

Ben: Yeah. The gigs themselves feel like a release after all the graft that goes around them with the other band stuff.

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).

Ben: Without a Face – Rage Against the Machine

Jack: Queens of the Stone Age – Turnin’ on the Screw

George: Cotopaxi – The Mars Volta

Eddie: The Specials – Ghost Town

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Follow Kid Kapichi

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INTERVIEW: KAZE

INTERVIEW:

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KAZE

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YOU only need look at their images…

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to know they are a force to be reckoned with. Graham and Amy form KAZE and have been talking about their start and changes. I ask what inspired the song, Fierce, and how they will follow it up; whether there are any gig plans lined up; some new artists to check out – what KAZE hope to achieve before the end of the year.

Amy and Graham pick an album important to them; they discuss how they create such a sense of fun and theatre; whether they have favourite memories from their time in music – they reveal what they do when they’re not recording music.

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

Hey, there! We are both well, thanks. We’re away at the moment doing a spot of songwriting actually…

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

Graham McCusker, crazy Scotsman, writes the music and plays keys while Amy Webber, from Kent, writes the lyrics and provides the lead vocals. 

For fans of (it’s somewhere between) Björk, Wolf Alice and Kate Bush. 

What can you tell me about the latest single, Fierce? What is the story behind it?

Fierce is about finding your inner-strength to finally stand up to people who intimidate and bully you. It's about finding your power and your confidence to stand up to injustices.

I love the vocals and theatrics on the track! Was it quite a complex track to put together and get ‘just right’?

We rehearsed the track thoroughly before going into the studio, so it was actually more straightforward than we thought it would be when it came to recording it. While rehearsing it, we experimented with a number of approaches and characters which was fun. 

You recorded at Blueprints studios. What was the experience like being in the studio? Who else can we hear on the track?

We absolutely loved going into Blueprint and playing/recording! Just being in that atmosphere where all you think about is creating music; all the worries of the ‘outside world’ seem distant. You can hear Thomas Fripp on Guitar, Jamie Brewster on Bass and Alexander Tod on Drums. 

How did you come to meet one another? What started the KAZE ball rolling?

We met at the Royal Northern College of Music where we both trained to be Opera singers. It was when Graham became ill with leukaemia in 2016 and was undergoing chemotherapy that he decided we should start a Pop band. We had the occasional jam before of covers, but it was nothing serious.

After finding himself so ill and out of control physically, Graham felt music and writing was something he could control and put his energy into. We wrote twenty songs over his four months of treatment - and that’s how it all started. 

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What sort of music do you both like? Who inspired you growing up?

Graham grew up listening to Steely Dan, Radiohead and At the Drive-In. 

Amy grew up listening to Ella Fitzgerald, The Cardigans and Caravan Palace. 

Now, we both have a huge range of music taste: we love Loyle Carner, mr jukes; Sigrid, Tune-Yards etc.…

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

We have some gigs coming up at the end of April which we can’t wait for! 

24 April: Edinburgh @ Sneaky Pete’s

25 April: Glasgow @ The Hug and Pint

27 April: Manchester @ The Castle 

Which albums, old and new, do you count as favourites and standouts?

Frank - Amy Winehouse

Gaucho - Steely Dan

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Can we expect more material before the end of this year, do you think?

Yes! We have two releases in the pipeline - we’ve got a bold song called Weapon due for release in June and another song due for release in August!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

In 2018, we hope to secure some summer festivals. We have a stage show which we’re really proud of. It’s very theatrical and involves dancing, props and general performing flare. So, we really want to perform to a wider audience and on a big stage.

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

Amy: Those movie moments where you’re sat around a fire and, after drinks and food, someone gets a guitar out at the end of the night. It sounds cheesy but I love making music when there’s no pressure on it to have to ‘sell’ or reach a specific audience - when you just make music for enjoyment and just sing your heart out. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write as much music as possible! Keep writing down lyrics ideas and little melodies. Put them on your laptop or on paper and hold on to them. Someone once said to us, for every ten songs you write, you might write one good one!

Keep on top of social media profiles too and keep connecting with people on there. Upload interesting content and connect with like-minded people/musicians. 

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There is an excellent vocalist and songwriter in Angus Munro. We’re actually playing a few gigs with him in Scotland soon and we’re big fans of his punching, acrobatic vocals and heartfelt songs.

We also have a friend, Stella Angelika, who’s from London - and she’s writing really beautiful songs with sublime vocals. Check them both out! 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Stella Angelika

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

Graham is a goalie and loves playing football with a post-match pint. If not on the pitch, Graham also enjoys virtual football, A.K.A. Fifa. 

Amy likes eating, cooking and running/yoga (probably done in the reverse order and with fresh herbs, cheese and a glass of dry white).

We both love getting outdoors and going for wild, country walks as well. 

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

Amy: Candi Bar by Keith Murry 

Graham: Boogie Nights by Heatwave

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Follow KAZE

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INTERVIEW: Michael Paradise

INTERVIEW:

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Michael Paradise

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THIS has been a busy day for me…

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and one I am ending by looking at a fantastic young artist. Michael Paradise lets me into his world and tells me the story behind his latest track, Meant 2 Be. I ask him whether there is more material in the locker; which music he holds dear; how his diary is looking for the coming weeks – whether the Canadian will come to the U.K.

I discover how Michael Paradise’s music comes together and how important Goldchain was to his current song; whether the artist has big ambitions and plans for the remainder of the year – he reveals why music by black artists, right now, is speaking to him so loudly.

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

Hey, Sam. It’s been pretty good. It feels great putting out the first track off the new project and I keep getting hit up by old friends, acquaintances and, of course, my best buds (which is really nice).

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

I’m a fully-independent Toronto artist trying to make feelgood music that vibes with people. I write and play the recorded music myself, although I have been getting a lot of help from Goldchain, who is a dope producer and artist. You should check him out. I also have recently put together a band and we play our first show at Burdock Music Hall in Toronto on April 26.

I am interested in the idea of the song, Meant 2 Be. It is a song designed to make you feel good and promote a message. What was the decision behind writing it?

This song is a collaboration with Goldchain. I heard this track he was working on and was like ‘Whaaat; that’s sick’. So, we ended up working on it together and I quickly realized this was the first one I wanted to put out. The idea behind the content is quite simplistic: it’s meant to be sexy and embrace the spring feels coming,  but also, it’s about what I’m going through in my personal life right now.

My partner and I have been having some serious issues even though, most of the time, everything is really good between us. So, it’s almost a question: This feels so good, so why can’t it just work?! Why is it never simple?!

How important was Goldchain regarding the song and your improvement as an artist?

Goldchain is just so professional, but he also has a really clear vision. He’s quite critical in a good way. He challenges me to make something better than what I would have settled on.

Your name, ‘Michael Paradise’, seems to reflect your need to express yourself, and music, without repercussion and boundaries. Do you think too many artists are a bit hesitant and creatively fearful?

It’s a good question and I don’t think it’s that simple…

With social media, it seems like everyone is just doing their thing, fearlessly, and making really cool art - which then can prompt the viewer to feel like they aren’t doing enough. But, also, all the artists I know suffer from some form of self-doubt…myself included. This fear can be crippling. So, with this project, I really just wanted to do my thing and release some sh*t for fun.

Let go of the hesitancy…

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Will there be more music coming later this year?

Yeah, def! There are four tracks written and demod for this project. I’m hoping the next single will come out within the next two months.

I know you have been in music for years. When did you decide to do your own project?

I moved back to Toronto from B.C. - where I was living for a bit about three years ago - and I just started slowly writing some of my own tracks. I then got some FACTOR funding recently, so that kicked things into gear for releasing content.

Which artists did you grow up around? What sort of music were you raised on?

Man; I grew up on the classics: Bob Marley, The Beatles; The Grateful Dead, Van Morrison; The Band, James Brown etc. My parents had a stack of records in the kitchen next to the sound system -and those were the types of albums lying around. Later, I got really into Ska, Punk; '90s Hip-Hop.

Now, I just listen to so much music in so many different areas. I think SZA is my fave big artist and Still Woozy is my fave emerging right now.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I have a professional career in music outside of being an artist, so a lot of my personal goals are tied to that as well. But, for my artistry; I’m just trying to have fun and do my best and keep my expectations low.

Which albums are most important to you – in terms of their power and impact?

I mostly only listen to contemporary music now. I think the most progressive, ground-breaking and interesting sh*t being made is in black culture music: R&B, Hip-Hop and Soul. Artist like SZA and Kendrick (Lamar) are just blowing me away. But, also stuff like Noname. I’ve had her album on-repeat for months.

I’m also so into Kali Uchis since I saw her at Danforth, in Toronto, a while back. I love the whole thing she has going on: the branding and artwork, the feel of the music; the feminist messages mixed with really sexy vibes.

I dunno; it’s all pretty cool…

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Can we catch you perform anytime soon? What dates do you have coming up?

Right now, just the Burdock show in Toronto on April 26. But, there will be more to come, I have no doubt.

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

No, not yet.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I think my advice is simple: just stay true to yourself. An audience can really recognize authenticity. Don’t make something because you think it is cool and will sell: make it because you need to express yourself. Also, never underestimate the value of networking. With your art, you need to stay true to yourself but, in your social circles and industry, you gotta hustle and put yourself out there.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Still Woozy/PHOTO CREDIT: Palmer Morse

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Still Woozy, Men I Trust; Alcordo, Desiire; MorMor, Sylo Nozra and Jaunt.

The list could be endless: so much good sh*t is coming out these days.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Alcordo

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

I’ve been working real hard of late. I’m doing my masters, work full-time at a festival and I have this music project. But, I love to exercise to get out of my head. I love getting out of the city too and, of course, playing and listening to music…

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).

Well, since I mentioned him so much: Lucy by Still Woozy (ft. Odie)

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Follow Michael Paradise

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INTERVIEW: Lara Smiles

INTERVIEW:

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Lara Smiles

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SHE is a bright and ambitious songwriter…

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who is ready to take music by storm. The incredible British artist Lara Smiles tells me about her path into music and when she first bonded with the guitar; what the story is behind her single, Coincidence; what we can expect from her debut album – which albums she holds dearest.

I ask what she has coming up in terms of gigs; some new artists we need to get behind;  what advice she would give to any similar artists making their way into music; what sort of sounds she was raised on – how it feels being promoted and backed by some big, important sites.

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Hi Lara, how are you? How has your week been?

Hey. I'm good, thanks. Hope you're well! My week's been good. I'm just on tour in Germany singing with The Australian Pink Floyd Show. It's my other job when I’m not doing my own stuff (smiles).

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

My name's Lara Smiles. Some people think it's my stage-name but it's my real name. Haha! I grew up in Hertfordshire in a small village with no music scene, so I moved to London. 

I play my songs with an awesome drummer and bass player, so we gig as a three-piece, and I like to write songs that don't have a specific style. But, I mainly like to mash up Rock, Indie and Electro. I'm in the middle of recording my debut album and I’m excited to announce it will be out in the summer! 

What can you tell me about Coincidence? How did the single come together?

Coincidence is the first single from my debut album that I've put out.

It's slightly different to all my earlier releases because it's the first recorded song I'm playing all the guitar parts on (and I've produced the track myself). It’s a mixture of Indie, Rock and Electro. Here's a deeper description of the lyrics of the song…

Coincidence is about those moments in life that leave you wondering if there is such thing as fate. Many of the songs I write are ambiguous and philosophical, like Coincidence. On the one hand, it's about a moment and how it came together perfectly but, on the other hand, I'm questioning: 'Is this a coincidence?' or is it purely our actions alone that lead us to the circumstances we often find ourselves in…?

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IMAGE CREDIT: Hannah Smiles

It sounds like a pretty natural song. Did you find yourself writing it pretty quickly – or did it go through stages?

I wrote the song in a couple of hours, to be honest, but I worked on the production for quite a while. It actually started off as an EDM tune on the first demo I recorded and, when I started playing some grungy guitar on it, it totally changed the vibe and I decided I wanted it to go a bit heavier – so, I added live drums and more distorted guitars and bass.

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Will there be more material coming later in the year? 

Yes. I'll be putting out a few more singles over the coming months and then the album will be out on 3rd August. 

It seems you take influence from Grunge and Alternative artists. Is that the sort of music you were raised on? Who do you count as idols?

I'm inspired by so many artists and I have many idols, such as Paul McCartney, Billy Joe Armstrong; Tina Turner, Prince; Debbie Harry and Karen O. I was introduced to lots of music growing up; I think it's because I am the youngest of three and I got to listen to my siblings and parents music and I was mainly raised on The Beatles, Tina Turner and Paul Simon. I remember loving these artists when I was very young and I knew I wanted to be involved in music.

Then, in my early-teens, I got into Green Day, The Prodigy and the late-90s' Dance scene - and I think that's where the idea to experiment with different styles started.  

The guitar, too, is a weapon you wield well! When did you pick it up? How important is the guitar to your overall sound?

I picked up the guitar, seriously, just a couple of years ago.

I'm a singer, first and foremost, but I always wanted to play more guitar - but never thought I'd be good enough to actually play and sing at the same time live without a lead guitarist helping out. But, for the last two years, I've been doing it. It's been a massive challenge for me, to say the least, and I've only just started to enjoy it because I found it quite stressful – but, I’m glad I’ve started now. Llet the fun begin! 

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Your music has been picked up and promoted by some big sources. Does it give you a lot of confidence knowing people react to your music?!

It’s been an amazing year so far...

I'm recording my debut album and have been able to do this from reaching my pledge target. I've been getting some great blogs and press from the first single so far so, yes, it's been great - and getting a good response has definitely helped me think in a more confident/positive way.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018? 

I hope to get some more gigs and book a mini-tour in the summer to promote the album - and I'm currently looking for a booking agent. So, if anyone’s interested out there?! Hehe. 

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

That's a difficult one! But, here goes...

Graceland - Paul Simon

Takes me back to when my parents played this a lot when we live in the Middle East. So, it reminds me of driving through sand dunes and playing in the beautiful Indian Ocean. Paul’s voice, songwriting and poetry are just genius. 

Nimrod - Green Day

Takes me back to being an angsty teenager and bunking off school. I remember getting excited about this band when I heard Dookie for the first time as well.  

Everything Everything - Get to Heaven

I'm so into this album right now so I thought, rather than chose another legendary older album like Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall or something which also really inspired me as a kid; I thought I’d go with something that's inspiring me right now. I just think the production on this album is unbelievable. Every intricate detail in the musicianship and the songwriting is mind-blowing, too. 

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Can we catch you perform anytime soon? What dates do you have coming up?

Keep an eye out on my website. I'll have some gigs booked in soon.

I'll be doing some gigs over the summer at Foodies Festival, supporting The Hoosiers, which will be fun!

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

There's been so many; not just in my own band but in other bands I’ve toured with as well. The only thing that springs to mind now is talking to people after my London gigs and to hear them say they've come along as they've heard good things - and that is enough to make me feel like I’m doing the right thing.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say keep writing songs: it's all about the song. Gig as much as you can.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Vivienne Chi

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

Yes. My very talented friends; these ladies are rockin’: Vivienne Chi and The Pearl Harts.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Pearl Harts

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

Being a solo artist, I’ve got to do everything myself; so, if I’m not writing or recording music, I’m promoting my music and emailing people about it etc. So; I don't get much time to chill but, when I do get to unwind, it will be with friends or family and a bottle of wine (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).

Thanks for the interview! I choose No Reptiles by Everything Everything. It's on the album, Get to Heaven…I'm loving the build-up on this tune...

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Follow Lara Smiles

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INTERVIEW: MAYKA

INTERVIEW:

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MAYKA

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THERE are a lot of energetic and passionate…

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artists working in music right now. It can be hard deciphering and discovering which artists are better than the average. It takes no time at all to realise MAYKA is a hot talent who needs no time and chance to bed in. I have been speaking with her about the single, Rich, and what comes next for her; which new artists she recommends – whether there are any tour dates confirmed.

The Swedish-based artist discusses the music in the country and how she got into music/D.J.ing. I ask whether MAYKA has any advice for new artists and what she wants to achieve before the end of the year – ending the song with a great song choice.

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

Hi! My last week has been intense with lots of sessions and also promo-stuff, but I'm feeling very good and excited! 

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

I'm MAYKA; born and raised in Sweden. I make dark, naive and edgy Pop with Trap, Future-Bass and Hip-Hop influences. My background lies in D.J.ing and the EDM-scene. 

Rich is your new song. What is the tale behind the song?

From the beginning, the song was about a relationship scenario - and I pictured dating some guy who's just bragging and showing off. Lately, I've found a deeper meaning, and now, I think it's more about striving for success – how we're chasing goals and trying to find happiness outside ourselves.

I'm so tired of that and I just wanna go back to simplicity and the richness of being present. 

It is a colourful and huge track. Did you design it with the summer in mind? It has that crowd-uniting sound to it!

Thanks! Actually, it was written a year ago, right before summer. I wanted it to be happy and cheerful but, at the same time, with an ounce of melancholy and heaviness. 

What was it like producing alongside LIOHN?

I love making music with LIOHN. He's such a genius with great composer skills and, at the same time, awesome at making beats and sounds. 

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Are you looking ahead to new material? Might we expect an E.P. before the end of the year?

Yeah. I've got so many nice songs stored. Hopefully, there will be another single before summer and an E.P. this fall. 

You are one-half of the Electro-Rap-Pop duo, Death Team. Do you think your first solo outing differs from the work you do with Death Team? Are you going to balance the two projects?

Hm. Yeah; my solo-stuff is a bit more dark and less '90s party. I love both of the projects and I feel like they represent different aspects of me. Right now, I'm focusing more on my own thing - but the goal is to balance the two. 

How did you get your start in music? Were there particular artists that got you hooked?

When I was a kid, I listened to Nirvana, Snoop Dogg and Rage Against the Machine. I was a real music nerd and bought new records every week. But it wasn't until I was about twenty-one-years-old I started pursuing music myself. I heard Justice – We Are Your Friends on a dancefloor while living in Barcelona and I got totally blown away. There and then I decided to become a D.J.

I started out playing records at Indie clubs and, after a while, I learned production. I did that for some years and then got crazy-inspired by M.I.A., Uffie and Fever Ray. So; I started singing/rapping and writing. I've always been drawn to rebellious, high-energy music with a Punk and don't-give-a-f*ck-vibe.  

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PHOTO CREDIT: Adam Chiapponi

You are Swedish-born. Is the music scene in Sweden quite varied and promising? How would you sum up Sweden’s ‘sound’ in a few words?

Swedes are awesome at making music.

I guess people are extremely creative and productive since it's dark and cold, like, nine months a year. I would say the Swedish sound is forward-thinking, fresh; melodic and trend-setting, but, with a lot of soul and essence. 

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

I have some gigs coming up in Sweden during spring. So excited. A tour is not planned yet and I'm busy rehearsing and putting my live set together.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I just hope my songs will find new homes - and that I will keep developing and experimenting with my sound. I always think the best is yet to come. 

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

I have many. There are so many roadblocks I've been forced to climb during my journey, and it's crazy that I'm still doing this and haven't given up yet. One of my best memories was my first festival summer with Death Team. I was insanely nervous since I had no live experience. But, with all of the support from our fans, it felt like I got superpowers on stage and I grew more and more for every show we did.

Total bliss and euphoria. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Collaborate and don't try to do everything by yourself. Join a community and look for support and people who can hold your back. Also, put some focus on finding visual concepts that represent you and your music. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Mallrat

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yeah. A singer-songwriter girl, Mallrat, from Australia is my new favorite. Also; Swedish producer MagnusTheMagnus makes awesome beats. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: MagnusTheMagnus

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

Some periods are crazy-hectic and other times it feels like I got nothing to do at all. When I don't have gigs at the weekends, I love to do some yoga, hang-out with friends; chill out and watch Netflix series. 

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).

Louis the Child, Elohim – Love Is Alive 

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Follow MAYKA 

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INTERVIEW: RIVVRS

INTERVIEW:

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RIVVRS

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HE has been a rather busy man…

over the past few weeks! Even though he has a newer song out there (Let It Die); I have been speaking with RIVVRS about his sizzler, Don’t Wanna Know. The U.S. songwriter is in hectic form and looking ahead to a new album – one I was keen to know more about.

Brandon (RIVVRS) discusses his influenced and the music scene in L.A.; what it feels like having his music picked up by T.V. and publications; whether we can see him in the U.K. during 2018 – he ends the interview with an artist I was not overly-familiar with…

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

Hello! You can call me Brandon! (Smiles). I’ve had a really nice week after a few not so nice weeks, so I’m feeling really good! I just got back from Palm Springs, so I’m pretending I’m still there as I type this...

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

Sure! I’m Brandon - sometimes I go by the name ‘RIVVRS’. Sometimes, I play with a band; sometimes I play by myself. Sometimes, I just watch Netflix instead. In terms of the type of music I play, it’s always changing. Right now, I’m very much in this Americana/Rock ‘n’ Roll phase and having a lot of fun playing out with the band. I listen to a lot of different types of music - so it’s usually really hard for me to stay focused on one genre.

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Can I ask about that name – and where ‘RIVVRS’ comes from?

One of my first bands after high-school was called ‘RIVER SHIVER’ and we were a duo (myself and a drummer) and played around San Francisco a lot. When I decided to move to L.A. and start a new project, I wanted to do something new but also keep the familiarity of the old band name. RIVERS was one that always played in my head, but it’s such a common word that it’s impossible to separate yourself online (legally) without changing the spelling. I never really had any pressure to change the name, so I just started making music without a name.

After I wrote my first song in L.A., it was placed in a T.V. show that talks about a band from San Francisco. When I found out they were using my song, they asked what my band name was and I had to give them something on the fly! It was ‘RIVVERS’ at first and then I dropped the ‘E’ to make it ‘RIVVRS’.

Don’t Wanna Know is your latest cut. What is the story behind the song?

I wrote that song with my buddy, Joshua James, after we toured together last year. He has a wife and two kids at home, so touring is definitely harder on him. I have a girlfriend and two cats at home, so it’s not exactly the same - but I definitely miss them when I’m gone. We had such a good time while traveling.

I remember thinking at one point: ‘What if we just don’t go home and never go back?!’. Mostly as a joke, but then actually played out the scenario in my head. It’s a little scary to think about leaving an entire life behind, but it happens every day. Husbands leave their wives and their kids all the time…

I experienced it as a child and I still wonder what it takes to do something like that. I think that’s, generally, what inspired the song. Along the way, we swapped out the words ‘If I do drugs on the weekend’ for a lighter version of ‘If I get high on the weekend’. Haha - it’s really just an angsty song about life on the road and what you leave behind when you’re gone - and the fear that it might not be waiting for you when you get back.

 

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I know it has picked up traction from the likes of NYLON. Is it touching knowing people are responding so strongly to your music?

I’m just grateful to be able to do this for a living. It’s incredibly flattering to know people are listening and connecting to the songs! It’s truly what keeps the fire going.

Your latest L.P., Cosmic Dream, is due later this year. Are there particular stories and aspects that influence the music? How do you feel it develops from your earliest work?

This album feels like my first record; mostly because it was created in a three-year period with the intention of being a RECORD. For that reason, I feel like it’s very congruent from song to song. My first record was more of a compilation of songs I wrote at different period of my life and then put it out when the time felt right. This new album has been a long, slow process and I’ve taken a lot more care with it.

It’s definitely similar to previous work but stands on its own, for sure.

Your music has been used on network television shows – you have accrued massive numbers on Spotify. How have these television placements helped get your music to new audiences?

It’s been really helpful! Especially with Shazam. It’s easy for someone to get instantly connected to your catalog just by clicking the Shazam button when they hear a song they like. That’s been a huge advantage for sure. It’s always nice to connect with someone at a live show and they tell you: “Oh, yeah; I discovered you by watching this T.V. show!” It’s not really how I ever imagined people would discover my music and I think it’s really rad!

What music did you grow up on? Was Classic-Rock a big part of that education?

Absolutely. My dad came from that era, so anything he grew up listening to I listened to. Luckily, I also had the incredible music of the '90s to add to that, so overall I got a very eclectic mix of music at an early age.  Tom Petty, The Red Hot Chili Peppers; AC/DC and Ben Harper. Those acts stand out in my head as big influences from an early age.

It seems like your early life was, at times, quite displaced. Was your childhood quite uprooted and unsettled? Did you travel about a lot?

We moved around a lot when I was younger but, by the time I was in middle-school, things mellowed out a little bit. There’s a lot of drug abuse and mental illness that runs on both sides of my family so, naturally, I’ve become a product of that environment - but I feel like I was raised well under those circumstances.

Now, I just write songs about it! Haha.

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You are a native of Northern California, now based in L.A. What made you move away and embrace a new crowd? What are the main differences between Northern California and L.A.?

I moved to L.A. to be closer to the music scene, naturally. It’s been a transition, but I love L.A. The difference is the people. In Northern California, there’s a stronger sense of community and connection. In Los Angeles, I feel like most connections are surface level and motivated by self-interest. It’s a town that lives for money, not art. BUT on the flip side, there are communities within the city that embrace the Northern California vibe - and I’m slowly starting to find those and embrace them.

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

We won’t be touring until later in 2018, into 2019. But this May, we’ll be playing the Main Stage at Bottle Rock in Napa Valley! Friday, May 25th to be exact…

Do you think your music comes alive when you have a full band on the stage? How important is it getting music out to the people?

The music is (at best) half-alive without the band. I’m realizing how vital the band is with this new record. The songs just don’t translate the same when it’s only me and a guitar. It translates: it just does it differently. I’m really excited to keep playing with the full group!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Total enlightenment…just kidding. I just wanna release my record and have a tour in place by the end of 2018 - and then hit the road hard in 2019.

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

Oh yeah! When I lived in Napa, I used to submit myself to the local theater as an opening act for the larger touring artists that came through. After two years of no response, one day the booker emailed me to let me know she’d confirmed me to open for Jewel for two nights. That was single-handedly the most memorable experience I have to date, simply because she was so nice and encouraging to me and it gave me this confidence boost I didn’t have at twenty-years-old. I think it just validated my dream and made me feel like it was realistic for the first time.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

…to listen to advice. Haha

I think it’s easy to let good advice slip by you. Just be open and willing to learn and to adapt to change. There’s always learning to do.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Mt. Joy! Really loving them right now. Also, Field Report!

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

Now that the record is done and I’m not hitting the road, I have been chilling HARD. Now that the weather is heating up, I’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors. Any escape from the concrete helps me unwind.

Otherwise, I’m definitely a homebody; lots of writing and listening to music and watching Shark Tank.

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).

YES! I’m sure you’ve heard it by now but listen to The Joke by Brandi Carlile; or a song called Sugartooth. The whole album she just released is SO GOOD

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INTERVIEW: Leisure Tank

INTERVIEW:

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Leisure Tank

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THE life of the duo…

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always intrigues me and causes fascination. I have been talking with Leisure Tank and how they came to be; whether there is a special story behind their name; what inspired their latest cut, Higher; whether there is more material on the horizon – which artists mean the most to them both.

K.C. and Budi reveal what they do away from music and what they would tell to new artists; which current acts are catching their imagination; how they have developed since their earliest songs – and, how their music comes together.

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

Hello. Very good, thank you. We just finished our U.K. tour and are looking forward to two more shows here in London.

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

We are Leisure Tank; an Indie-Rock power-duo located in London. Our concept is pretty simple: electric guitar, vocals; drums and a loop we sometimes use.

Our sound is rather raw, a bit retro, due to our love for our 1968 Ludwig drumkit and the music we love.

Higher is a fresh cut. Can you tell us how the song came together and what inspired it?

I (K.C.) had a guitar loop and riff I experimented with. It all came together pretty quickly and the song basically wrote itself once I had the subject and parts. Budi’s drum came in and we tried to keep everything simple to keep the natural flow...

The song reflects emotions in our chosen partners. Sometimes, we fly high on love without realising that it is happening more in our own heads than between partners. The coming-down can be harsh and we tend to blame the other side. The blame a friend put on an ex-partner in that way inspired the lyrics to Higher. I guess you can say things like that in a song…but not always into someone's face…

How does an average Leisure Tank song come together? K.C. and Budi. Do you work separately or do you sit in a room and hash a song out?

K.C. writes the songs. Sometimes we rehearse ideas but K.C. usually comes with a finished song into rehearsals. Then we add drums to it, loops; other parts etc. We always try to filter through what serves the song: the initial idea best. We have songs that came together quite quickly and others we are still messing with, after years of playing them.

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Can I ask about that name, ‘Leisure Tank’? To me, it seems to combine two Blur albums (Leisure and Think Tank)! What is the origin of the name? How did you meet one another, too?

Haha. We noticed the Blur connection after we named the band. That would explain all those disappointed Britpop-ers at our shows…

We named the band at a time when K.C. was thinking about the lack of leisure in our society, in our lives. Inspiration comes from 'leisure'. Just think Newton under the apple tree; the lack of leisure, the constant pressure of having to do or produce something. We figured that, nowadays, you have to protect your right to do nothing: not watching anything, not making and not achieving. That’s how the word ‘Tank’ forced its way in. One needs to be fierce and protective about the leisure time we have.

On the other hand, it makes a nice double-meaning in terms of 'fish tank', swimming etc. We tend to play with the marine part of the double-meaning, just because it is fun.

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Is there going to be more material later in the year?

We, honestly, don’t know at this point. We would like to release more music, of course, but need time to write and record.

Do you think you have grown as writers and performers since the 2014 album, Westsuit?

We played the album live a lot, so we feel we have grown as performers. The writing process hasn’t changed much, though. We’re laying more leads to better control of our instruments, and that influences the writing - and it is up to others to say if we have grown.

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It is hard to compare your music to other artists. If you had to select the acts, you feel, have inspired you most; which would you highlight?

That’s a hard one. We listen to so much different music and don’t always agree on artists. Budi, as a drummer, listened to a lot of Led Zeppelin and sixties/seventies music when he was younger, as well as Jazz, Skiffle; Rock ’n’ Roll…

We saw the Jazz drummer Max Roach once in Berlin together, which was very inspiring. But, I wouldn’t say we can actually hear it in our music. As a highlight, we both agree on….mh….

Probably, Led Zeppelin, PJ Harvey; Karate, The Band; Bob Dylan, Björk; Bonnie ‘Prince’ Billy, Janis Ian; Sandy Denny, Fairport Convention and Scout Niblett…

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

We will play London’s Water Rats on 14th April and the Dublin Castle in London on 26th April.

The summer is, sort of, almost here! Do you think you might get a chance to play some festivals at all?

Unfortunately, no festival wanted us this year...

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Write and record. Play more shows. I guess every band does that. Haha.

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

Oh; many! We supported Dave Swarbrick in London before his death. That was great. We recorded our last single at Jimmy Hogarth’s studio which was a great experience and a learning curve. We met Robert Plant last year at a festival. If your own music carries you that far, that’s a great feeling.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I guess that depends on what the artists want to achieve.

Good advice we give ourselves is to ignore them all, which didn’t help in terms of commercial success...but we always had a hell of a time doing what we want to.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Marine/PHOTO CREDIT: Bex Wade Photography 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Marine, You; Blue Statue and Son of Dave.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Blue Statute

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

It’s the other way round: we relax most by making music and writing songs.

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).

K.C.: Joe Gideon & the Shark – Kathy Ray

Budi: Primus – Too Many Puppies

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INTERVIEW: Filo Vals

INTERVIEW:

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Filo Vals

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GOING into the weekend…

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I am featuring a couple of great new artists with plenty of ambition and energy. Filo Vals tells me about his new single, Just Guessin’, and how it differs from his popular song, Mr. World. I ask whether there is more material coming; what we can expect in terms of gigs – which artists inspired his progression and sound.

Vals looks back at good musical memories and ahead to the remainder of this year; how he spends time away from music; which new artists we need to look out for; being compared to the likes of Paolo Nutini – ending with a song by the great man himself.

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

Hi! I’m very good, thank you! This week has been very tiring. There’s a lot going on - but I really love what I do so I can’t complain really.

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

I’m a singer-songwriter and I’m from Rome. I moved to the U.K. when I was eighteen and I’m currently living in London as well as working on my new album (that will come out very soon!).

Just Guessin’ is your new song. Tell me about its origination and story…

Just Guessin’ is a song I wrote one year ago when I was into a girl I used to see at the time. The song is really about those feelings you have when you start seeing someone you like. I wanted to try to express that kind of insecurity you have - as you don’t know what you can tell or ask but, at the same time, you literally want to feel free to be yourself with that person.

How do you think it differs from a track like, say, Mr. World?

Well. The main difference between two tracks is that Mr. World is a song about personal thoughts sometimes combined with poetic images, while Just Guessin’ is (just) about personal feelings that I have actually lived.

Is there going to be an E.P. or album later this year?      

We will have more singles coming out in the next few months - before launching the whole album later this year.

How did music come into your life? Is it true you first picked up a guitar aged six?

My father used to roughly play the guitar. He wrote a song about the Disney characters for me and my sister when we were little, and I was really fascinated by that instrument. So, yes, when I was six I decided I wanted to learn it!

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I hear elements of Paolo Nutini and Bob Dylan in your sound. Which artists have influenced your music and direction?               

First of all, thank you very much; I take that as a big compliment. The two artists you mentioned are two artists that I really love and that I have listened to for a long time, so I can’t deny those are the ones I’m inspired by.

I would also add, as influences, Bob Marley and Jack Johnson!

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You have received support from the BBC and streaming sites. Is that kind of backing pivotal when it comes to pressing on and aiming high?!            

Yes. Those events are big opportunities to reach a wider audience!

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

My next gig confirmed is 30th April at Nell’s Jazz and Blues. I am really excited and I can’t wait! Come along! Then, I’ll have another one at the Troubadour on 25th May.

How does it make you feel being on stage? Can you describe the feeling?!       

Being on stage is great, especially when the crowd is warm. Sometimes, you feel so much adrenaline that, when you’re done, you can’t even remember how it was.     

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018? 

I hope to share and play my music and reach as many people as I can.   

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

One of the strongest memories is from when I played at a festival in Italy in front of 15,000 people. The energy I felt was insane. The best live experience I’ve ever had.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?    

The only advice I would give to anyone is the advice I’m following myself: if you believe in what you’re doing and have a vision, fight to make it happen, no matter what.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I am sure you know him already, but I really enjoyed discovering Tom Misch this year! Great Sound! I would also advise you to listen to Jack Martini - he is a very talented friend of mine with a great acoustic sound.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Jack Martini/PHOTO CREDIT: Flaminia Reposi

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

Haha. I think I chill just like everyone else: laying on the sofa and watching movies. I love watching movies!

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 suggest Pencil Full of Lead by Paolo Nutini. It always puts me in a great mood!

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INTERVIEW: Tommy Down

INTERVIEW:

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Tommy Down

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THERE are some fantastically soulful voices…

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in the world of music right now, exciting the senses and compelling critics. In America, there is Leon Bridges; here, and with a hot tune ready for us, is Tommy Down. I have been speaking with the young maestro about being compared with Nile Rodgers; what factors/threads influenced Superficial - and, whether we can see an E.P. very soon.

Tommy Down tells me about his musical tastes and how he got into the industry; what it was like working with producer Rhys Lewis on Superficial; some new artists we need to spend some time with – how the former band leader has adapted to life as a solo artist.

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Hi, Tommy Down. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. I’m good, thanks. I’ve just been working with my band, Harker Moon, a lot this week as we’re trying to finish this new song we’ve been working on.

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

Hi. I’m Tommy and I’ve recently released a lyrically-heavy, Funk-inspired track called Superficial - but wouldn’t say I’m tied to one genre at all; so, always keen to try new things with later releases.

Superficial is your new song. What can you reveal about its creation and story?

Well. I was introduced to Rhys Lewis by his brother and we ended up having a writing session together. I showed him some chords I had recently written and he came up with the bass line, which ended up being the chore of the track.

It was great fun to work with him and we pretty much finished the song that day. We wrote the song very quickly - but it felt like a very natural collaboration, so it didn’t feel rushed.

I picked up on an aspect of social media obsession. Do you feel we are all becoming too obsessed with our laptops and phones? How do we break out of this?!

I’m probably not the right person to ask concerning how to break out of it, as I’m likely just as bad as anyone else but, yeah, the song was inspired through an observation of our generation. I remember talking to Rhys about how people at my uni (in Bristol), for some, reason loved wearing vintage Nike/Adidas sportswear and how everyone seemed to jump on this bandwagon. Suddenly, all my brother’s old clothes were cool (laughs).

I think, once a group of people have started to do something, it's considered fine. I (just) can’t ever imagine my grandmother taking a selfie and mailing that photo to all her friends sixty years ago yet, online, it’s considered the norm. I don’t think we’re obsessed – but it’s nice to take a break now and then.

Superficial seems to mix Nile Rodgers and Sade. It is a bit of a stomper! Were you channelling any particular artists for this song?

Thanks, man, appreciate it. I do love a bit of Nile. I’d been listening to a lot of Seramic and at the time and not sure whether I was listening to him then – but, I think Steve Lacy is great. Love the bass-y nature of some of his tracks – like, in Some.

I also like the lyrical nature of the Arctic Monkeys - and thought it would be cool to get a bit of a story into the track.

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What did producer Rhys Lewis bring to the track, do you think? Was it a good experience working with him?

It was great to work with Rhys.

He’s a great producer and musician. I felt he helped me look at the creation of a song in a different way. I usually have an idea of what the song will sound like before I record it, but trying out different sounds while writing the song was great. I also rarely repeat a lyric in a verse, but Rhys actually wrote the lyric “God, I hate the taste; I hate this place”, which is repeated in the second verse.

It felt it was a good idea as it applied in both contexts.

Is there going to be more material coming later in the year? Will we see an E.P.?

There likely will be some more material coming in the year. I’m trying a few different genres at the moment, so just have to make sure I like what I make before I share it, really.

I will be releasing a music video for Superficial this year, however, which I made with my friend Tobias Harris. My band, Harker Moon, will be releasing a track this year, too.

How did you get started in music? Did you begin with open mics? Was there a particular event that influenced that decision?

My parents always played music at home and I remember listening to Magic 105.4 in the car with my mum on the way to school every day. I started writing music when I got my first cheap recording kit around the age of fourteen - and enjoy listening back to the terrible songs I wrote...

Yeah; I think I started with open mics - which were always fun - but singing in my university’s Jazz band probably made me start to think of music as my ideal career. We went on tour to Switzerland. It was great being around all those musicians and was one of the best experiences of my life.

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Who are the artists who opened your eyes growing up?

Stevie Wonder, James Brown; Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson; Otis Redding, Al Green and the Arctic Monkeys - and Queen’s greatest hits was actually the first album I bought. I have always loved Soul music, though.

You are a band leader as well as a solo artist. Do you have to change the way you perform and write in each environment? What are the main differences?

Yep. It’s quite a different writing process with the band. I usually write a blueprint for a song and then the band add their particular spin on it; the changes can go on for months. I wouldn’t say I perform differently, though - you’ll have to come to a gig some time to find out.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope to release some material through my band and my solo project - that I am proud of – and, hopefully, play a few festivals along the way.

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

I usually don’t drink a drop before getting on stage, but I remember thinking I had finished my set for my uni’s jazz band in this small village in Switzerland by the sea. Thinking I had no more songs to sing, I got pretty drunk. The conductor Paddy, without warning, announced that I was going to finish the set with Feeling Good by Nina Simone. I remember repeating the lyric tree a lot.

Luckily, everyone was foreign – so, I don’t think they knew what I was saying anyway. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would tell them to take time writing every individual part of the first song they release…especially if you’re in a band as, when it comes to the day you record it, you will want to know exactly what you’re playing. So, make a demo. Make sure that you are entirely happy with the first song you release as you only really get one chance…unless you take it down and put another one up, of course.

Talk to as many people in the industry you can, keep asking for advice; spend a lot of time writing and try release as much material as you can.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Daniel Caesar/PHOTO CREDIT: Keavan J. Yazdani 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been listening to a lot of Daniel Caesar. He’s great. I’ve already mentioned Steve Lacy. She’s not that new, but Jorja Smith is great too.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jorja Smith

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

Luckily, my bandmates are actually my friends too, so it's always nice hanging out with them. You’d probably bump into me at some pub in Camden with my mates if you’re round there during the weekend.

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).

Sweet - and thanks for the Interview. All the best, Tommy. I will leave you with the King of Soul:

People Get Up and Drive Your Funky Soul (Remix) – James Brown, Fred Wesley and The J.B.'s

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