INTERVIEW: Johnny Powell and the Seasonal Beasts

INTERVIEW:

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 Johnny Powell and the Seasonal Beasts

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YOU get those bands that come along…

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and provide fascinating music, wonderful insight and complete depth. That is the case with Johnny Powell and the Seasonal Beasts. I speak with the band – Johnny takes up most of the responses – about their new album, Twice, and some of the inspirations that go into it.

I ask the band which artists they grew up around and why Twice’s recording and creative process had a unique edge; if they have precious memories from their time in music; why this week has been an emotional one for the band – they tell me how they got together and what their future holds.

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

Hi, Sam. It’s been an unusual week for us...

Our percussionist is moving to France…today! So, it has been an emotional period for us all. We had a farewell (for now) curry together on Monday evening and it is the first Tuesday evening we haven’t rehearsed at the cabin for quite some time. Things are changing…

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

Well, we are Johnny Powell and the Seasonal Beasts (the other members being Ffion Atkinson, Roger Burnett and Paul Mill) and we play what is becoming known as ‘Modern Folk’, music it seems. There has been a string of strange genres thrown our way from ‘Freak-Folk’ to ‘Outsider Indie’. It must be hard to pin down.

We try to be very mindful with the music we produce and the lyrics are particularly important. The ‘Seasonal Beasts’ reference is taken from the beautiful Sea Song by Robert Wyatt. I hope he doesn’t mind.

Heave-Ho is a song you uploaded to BBC Introducing earlier this month. What is the story behind the song?

Heave-Ho is a reference to generating motivation during tough times. It’s like a war cry I guess; a physical and verbal method for shifting your mindset from feeling low, scared or tired, to being ready to face consequences or to see some humour in a very dark situation. Part of the lyrics are based on my own mother’s mental-health, which was incredibly difficult to understand.

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It is from the album, Twice. Can you reveal the main themes of the album? Why did you decide to record in a cabin in the Pennine moorlands?!

We used to rehearse in a huge semi-derelict mill on the moors in Old Town, above Hebden Bridge, which was an incredible experience but, literally, sub-zero temperatures – you could see the water vapour pouring out of our mouths as we sang and played on all of the videos.

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All the tenants were evicted for development and shortly after our percussionist, Rog, moved to the cabin and allowed us to play regularly and record at his home. It felt like our home, too, in many ways: we would cook for each other and sit on the floor and eat by the fire…imagine having a real fire after playing at the mill! We felt very fortunate. The sound and atmosphere of the music were like nothing else and we wanted to recreate that on the album, which is why much of it is recorded live.

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The tracks on the album deal with a wide range of subject matter, but all of the tracks seem to emphasise the power that the mind has to destroy and create something beautiful. Working with it sensitively, developing and understanding it; digging up old memories and observing present thoughts and considering their value - trying to make use of it in this precious life whilst protecting it against our usual tendencies and bad habits. There is, also, an element of coping with separation from those you love; the deep bereavement you feel when a long-term relationship ends and learning to lead a life with a completely disintegrated basis.

That sort of experience and retreat reminds me of Bon Iver. Did you find the recording and writing easier and more natural there?

Yes. We were very much at ease there. In all honesty, I think it was a sanctuary for us all in many ways. It was so conducive to the development of the strong friendships we have made. We would often arrive in the snow - the tracks unpassable by vehicle; so we would have a long snowy walk under starlight along the moorland hill to the cabin; arriving back to Rog cooking us a meal. I (Johnny) had my own pair of woolly socks hung up there that I’d ritually put on upon arrival.

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The log fire would be going and we would rehearse by candlelight. We wanted to record exactly as we performed in hope that the connection we had would come across on the album. Hopefully, it has. We left most of the natural background noises in the recording, too.

Which artists did you guys all grow up listening to? Do you have similar tastes?

Ffion: When I think of music in my childhood, my head fills up with Kate Bush, who I have never stopped loving. I also have strong memories of my parents playing traditional Folk music themselves, particularly my mum with her Irish tin whistle. She often played it as an escape from my brother and I, which I couldn’t handle at the time (lots of clothes pulling)…but I get it now.

In the band, we have equally wide-ranging tastes but all appreciate integrity. We enjoy listening to a lot of the same artists and, when we disagree or are faced with something new, we are all respectful.

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Johnny: Oh; so much to fit in, so I’ll keep it simple! I have an older sister and I remember her walls were covered with NME band cutouts from the '90s, I used to hear all sorts of cool stuff but the most memorable was a tape of Pixies’ Doolittle album which I played to death for years: the loose but controlled anarchy felt so liberating! When I bought my first electric guitar, I think I got a little obsessed and learnt every single track.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Sarah Mason

My folks used to listen to '60s’ Rock, mainly - my dad would play and sing me The Beatles’ tracks on a battered old acoustic which I still have. It was so strange hearing the real versions as I grew up. My real introduction to Alternative music was through my friend's parents, a wonderful hippy couple, with shelves of vinyl - I won’t go into that though as I’ll never stop…

Paul: I grew up listening to all sorts. It was the time of Nirvana, Faith No More and bands like that but, also, listened to Kate Bush and Prince a lot. We had a lot of Elvis in the house, too, as my dad was really into him.

Rog: Echo and the Bunnymen, Siouxsie and the Banshee; Talking Heads and Led Zeppelin.

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When did Johnny Powell and the Seasonal Beasts come together? Can you recall when you all started playing together?

Myself (Johnny) and Paul have been playing together for quite a few years now but, previously, it was more experimental with Electronica, electric guitars and all sorts of unusual equipment. We started playing with Ffion and Rog in the winter of 2016 and released our first E.P., Five Past Lives, in the spring of 2017.

Rog’s style of percussion is unusually intricate and an art in itself and Ffion has a wonderful voice with delicate inflexions; so it seemed natural to go quieter, completely acoustic and make the tracks barer to allow people to witness the minor detail.

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

With Rog leaving for France, we are hoping to organise a few European tours eventually but, for now, we just have two gigs booked. They sound like fantastic events, though. The first is on Sunday, 17th June at the wonderful Grayston Unity in Halifax at the Acoustica Festival – the owner, Michael Ainsworth, has brought some incredible acts to the town over recent years (Jeffrey Lewis played there last week). It’s a tiny venue, but the day festival is in the courtyard at the back.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rob Lycett

The second gig is in Totnes on Friday, 28th September at the Dartmouth Inn. This is a Blackbird Collective show: a fantastic bunch of musicians and music lovers who have recently started putting on some brilliant shows in Devon.

We will probably book a few more in soon so people can keep an eye out at www.johnnypowell.com if they like.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rob Lycett

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We have already started writing tracks for the next album and will probably record later this year…but where?! Maybe France!

…2018 is a little uncertain at the moment. When Rog has settled we will hopefully go over and play some gigs in France/Europe at some point.

A lot of sources have raved about your music and put their weight behind it. Does that give you the drive to keep recording and playing?

It is nice that people enjoy it but it doesn’t offer much drive in that sense. One of the things we’ve realised is that we are a sensitive band and find that we are happiest when we know we are dealing with intimate venues, friendly promoters and, simply, spending time relaxing together.

We have had to turn down a lot of gigs as our music is very delicate and easily los; so it is almost pointless travelling unless we find the right environment and crowd. I believe the thing that really motivates us to keep performing and writing is that we like hanging out together.

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

Johnny: We did a little tour of the South West last year and one of my favourite experiences was staying with our friends, Matthew and Ali in Harbertonford, and sneaking in a wander around Totnes and a trip to the beach, which we had all to ourselves.

Ffion: I would second that; being made to feel so at home with Matt and Ali and walking around Totnes - such a vibrant town. It felt like we were meant to be there…

Our album launch for Twice is what I would choose, though. After a lot of stress and hard work, the night unfolded wonderfully. We created the environment we had envisioned months before: everyone (us and them) was at ease and the sound levels were just right. It was a magical culmination of everything - which was all the more important given Rog’s imminent departure!

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Paul: I think the South West tour was a wonderful thing to be part of and we played some of our best music then. However; I have memories of the gig in Andy’s piano shop in Haworth and it was just lovely. We played acoustically to a small amount of people and the sun was setting as we played (ok; it was by a road, but it was still nice...). The audience were also encouraged to not clap after each song but to just take on board what we had played and let it sink in.

Rog: Playing in my first-ever band and, halfway through a gig, hearing someone shout “Kill yourselves!" from back of the venue.

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

At the moment, I’m listening to Mount Eerie a lot…so that would be my choice (Johnny). Although, I’m not sure if he’s touring. His work is very penetrating, intensely emotional and carries a great sadness and insight with it on his recent releases.

As a rider; I never really need anything to be honest, but a friendly sound engineer is always helpful.

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Ffion: Peter Broderick. He is so joyful, playful and wise with an experimental and open-minded approach to life and music. His generosity is infectious and he can inspire change.

Most importantly, perhaps, I think we would LAUGH.

Rog: Damien Rice and champagne!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I don’t think I’m best placed to give advice as I’ve never had much success...

For me; music always turns into a chore or a job unless I see it in a way where it may be able to help people, including myself. It can be worryingly self-indulgent if you are not aware of the reasons you are doing it. I guess, in light of that, I would say: be kind to your band members and the people you meet, listen to them and try to enjoy what you are doing – take breaks when you need them and don’t be afraid to lose yourself in the music –  that’s where the moments of beauty creep in.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I have been listening to a lot of Julie Byrne, recently; Leonie Evans, too… and, not so new, but the Neva Dinova back catalogue is on right now. You May Already Be Dreaming is a beautiful album.

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

Yes. I don’t really play much music, to be honest. I run a lot. I study dharma and have recently loved the fact that Belle and Sebastian named their latest trio of E.P.s after one of my favourite Buddhist texts, How to Solve Our Human Problems.

Ffion: Walking and cooking, which I promise to do more!

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Paul: Walk: it’s the only thing to do. I always think about music; so it might as well be in lovely settings. If not, then some qi gong.

Rog: Whittling and drinking beer.

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).

Johnny: Clouds – Neva Dinova

Ffion: I Hold Nothing - Mount Eerie

Rog: The Blacksmith - Eddi Reader

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INTERVIEW: Mad Hawkes

INTERVIEW:

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Mad Hawkes

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WHEN you hear and listen to Mad Hawkes…

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you get that confidence, sense of command and bad-ass cool coming through. I have been speaking with the American songwriter about her single, Fantasy, and what we will get from her E.P., Undone (out on 11th May).

She talks about what it is like being based in South Bay, Los Angeles and who she counts as idols; what ‘Babe Rock’ entails; whether she might come to the U.K. and play this year; which new act we need to keep an eye out for – she reveals how music came into her life.

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

Mad Hawkes is a project that has been coming to fruition over the last two years. I used to intern with Parts + Labor Records before they signed me to their label. In the four years I was there I was acting as a fly on the wall; observing everything and learning from other artists. It was super-cool to be immersed in that world. It definitely gave me the opportunity to understand what it takes to make great music and to pursue a career. 

Fantasy is out. Can you talk about the song’s inspiration and putting together the music video?

I wrote this song when I was in a place of self-sabotage, in a sense. It’s one of those things where you stiff-arm the good things in your life for no other reason than feeling like you’re not worthy. It’s a silly mindset to be in; I’m happy it passed. But, I’m even happier I was able to take a s*itty moment in my life and turn out a good song. The music video was a blast!

It was fun to add a new perspective and some type of storyline to the song. It’s always cool to see how people’s interpretations of songs differ: we all take something from it that we can apply to our own lives. 

Undone, your new E.P., is out on 11th May via Parts & Labor. What sort of things were on your mind when writing the songs? How would you define the E.P.?

The songs on this E.P. have been written over the course of two-three years. It’s really become a story of being in your early-twenties and experiencing so many things in life for the first time. I’ve gone through my first bundle of heartache and loss in this time. It’s been a moment in my life where I am learning who I am and who I want to be.

It’s hard when you don’t take the more ‘traditional’ route in life; sort of feels like you are prone to making more mistakes, which is cool. Mistakes really only mean that you’re trying new things. I’d say Undone is about trial-and-error and the feeling of losing your footing over and over again and just finding new ways to get up and get on.  

You label your sound as ‘Babe Rock’. What does the sound entail?! How important are artists like Karen O in regards your direction? 

‘Babe Rock’ is really just a term I’ve used to describe other female artists that I look up to and that I think are forceful in this industry when it comes to standing for something - and that is the kind of artist I want to be. Karen O is just an example of a kick-ass woman doing her own thing. I want to inspire strength and vulnerability the way these powerful, unique and strong women have inspired it in me. 

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Being based near South Bay, L.A.; how important are the beaches and bodies of the area to your songwriting? Do you borrow a lot from your experiences there and the people you come into contact with?

In general, you write about your experiences in life. So, I’m sure that growing up at the beach and living that lifestyle has inspired the music I write. I don’t know exactly how. I definitely used to beach and ocean as inspiration for many things in my life, including traveling. With that, you live more and you write more. 

Who do you count as music idols? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

I grew up with a lot of music in my life. My grampa is a great musician and my grammy is a great dancer. They grew up in L.A. in the '50s-'60s when the music scene was exploding and was exciting. They were running in the Elvis and Temptations circles back then. Their lives revolved around music and that lifestyle was handed down to my mom. She’s always listening to something and excited about something. Some of my bigger idols are Amy Winehouse and Etta James...also, Blondie. Crazy-cool chicks! 

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

We have a show lined up at The Satellite in Silverlake, June 13. Right now, we are working on a West Coast tour. We want to hit the road A.S.A.P.! 

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Might we see you come to the U.K. this year? Do you like British music? 

AH, I HOPE SO. If not, then very, very soon.

Course I do! So many killer classics have come from the U.K. Depeche Mode, The Cure! Oh, and I love Arctic Monkeys!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’d like to put together an awesome tour. My main goal is to play as many shows as possible; get everyone to hear the tunes!

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

My favorite, so far, has been this show we played a while back at The Satellite in Los Angeles. I think it was in March. It was the first time during a performance where I just completely let go. it was almost like a blackout, except not alcohol induced. ha. It was sooo coool to get to that place where you just say ‘fu*k it’ and unleash the beast. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I’d probably say the same things that I have been told over and over, which is: it’s really f*cking hard, so you have to be pursuing it purely for the love of making music. You just can’t give up. Most people will: you just have to outlast them and work harder than everyone else. It’s the path of most resistance, for sure. Haha. But, once you accept that, it’s the most fulfilling path in life. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Yuma X

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I really love Yuma X. They are a band out of Sydney, Australia. 

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

At the moment, music is all-day, every day. Even when it doesn’t need to be, it still is. But, I usually take a trip to Mexico every year to surf and such. I grew up on the beach, so my downtime is spent there for the most part. Beer is almost always involved. No…beer is definitely always involved. 

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).

Walk by Nicky Blitz

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INTERVIEW: Salt Ashes

INTERVIEW:

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Salt Ashes

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IT has been a while since I last spoke with Salt Ashes…

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so it is a good time to catch up with her now - Girls is her new single and I find out what inspired the song. She talks to me about future material and her development; new artists she is compelled by; which three albums mean the most to her – she provides some good advice for new songwriters.

Salt Ashes tells me what it was like sharing the stage with Tove Styrke and Little Boots; what sort of music she grew up on; what she hopes before this year is through – she ends the interview by selecting a rather cool song I had not heard before!

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Hi, Salt Ashes. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. Great, thanks. It’s been a busy week of sessions and getting ready for the new release.

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

Yeah. I’m an Electronic/Pop artist based in the U.K. and I like gin.

Tell me a bit about your single, Girls. What inspired the song?

It’s about a situation that happens too often, I think…

When someone makes an assumption that you want more than a friendship despite telling them over and over that you don’t. I hate the ‘slut-shaming’ time we live in and hearing that ‘They were asking for it’. It’s bull*hit. We should all be able to be free to express ourselves how we want without someone deciding for you that you want more!

I last featured you back in 2016. How do you think your music has developed since then?

Music should always grow and develop with the new experiences and knowledge you have in life…I don't know; I guess I feel surer of myself as a person now and I think that’s reflected in my songwriting and what I’m writing about.

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Will there be more material coming later in the year?

Absolutely. I’m hoping to release a lot of music this year.

Having shared the stage with the likes of Tove Styrke and Little Boots; have you learnt a lot from other artists?

I loved those two gigs!

Yes; the biggest thing I’ve learnt and continue to is to make the music you want to make and be as honest as you can. Don’t follow trends. I see this with certain artists and respect them so much more for it.

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What sort of music were you raised on? How important was your childhood tastes to what you record now?

I was raised on a really wide range of music so, even though it, inevitably, has some kind of influence on me, I don't think it directly impacts my writing now. I grew up on music my brother and sister listened to like Madonna, TLC; Lauryn Hill, Nirvana; Oasis and, later, discovered Disco in bands like Change, Giorgio Moroder and Daft Punk…

The media certainly loves your music. Does it give you confidence knowing so many people are reacting to what you write?!

I find it pretty nerve-racking, actually; putting new music out there and waiting for the reaction…especially when the lyrics are so personal and you’ve put a lot of yourself into it. But, not everyone is going to like it and that’s cool with me.

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

Gigs are to be announced soon!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want to be playing more shows this year and getting more music out.

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

Supporting Say Lou Lou at Heaven was a big highlight for me.

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

Jeff Buckley - Grace

His voice. His delivery. The Sadness. I learnt a lot from him and his songs as I was growing up.

Daft Punk - Homework

This was when my eyes opened to a whole new world of music. I put this on still when I wanna lose my mind for a bit.

A new favourite is Sampha – Process

It has so much depth and intricacies, yet and his voice gets my blood rushing.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be strong. Stick with your heart. Don’t be influenced BUT be open to ideas.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Esther Kirabo

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m loving Esther Kirabo at the moment - her song, Kill U, is sick.

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

Music is pretty much my life. But, I like to do yoga and drink gin with my friends. Not at the same time though – although, that could be interesting.

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 that Esther Kirabo tune! I love her

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INTERVIEW: Artbreak

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rachel Naomi

Artbreak

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TOM from Artbreak has been talking with me…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Joupin Ghamsari

about the band’s current single, Soda Can (out on 18th May). He tells me what it was like working with producer Tony Visconti and whether more material is coming up; how the band have developed since their earliest days – how the guys all got together and started making music together.

Tom reveals a favourite memory from music and whether Artbreak have common musical influences; what advice he would give to new songwriters coming through; whether he gets much time to relax away from music – he ends the interview by picking a cool song.

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

Hey! Not too shabby, thank you. 

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

Artbreak are a South London five-piece that attempts to merge angular, disconcerting riffs with Disco-Funk choruses.

Soda Can your new single (out on 18th May). What is the story behind it?

Well. You'd have to ask our lead singer for the full lowdown, but I always read it as a stream of consciousness; a backdoor into the mind of a disturbed narrator.

It is produced by Tony Visconti. How did it get involved with your music?! What did he add to the track, would you say?

We met Tony after a gig we did a couple of years back and he liked the music; told us to stay in contact - so we did - sending him demos, new releases and such. To our surprise, he got back in touch to ask if we'd like to cut a record at his new studio so, obviously, we jumped on the chance.

In terms of adding to the track, I don't think much changed in terms of structure: maybe a bar or two ended up on the cutting room floor but it was mainly arrangement ideas that he contributed; backing vocal stacks in the chorus and sampled sounds to beef up the drum kit.

Is there going to be more material coming? Might you work with Visconti again?

There's more material on the way. As for whether we meet with Visconti again, I'm not sure - he mentioned that he'd like to but you never know.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rachel Naomi

How did Artbreak get together? When did you start playing together? 

Artbreak rose out of the ashes of another band called the Savage Nomads. Four of us had been playing together for a while and the music had started to evolve away from the type of music we had started with, so we decided to rebrand!

You seem to absorb a lot of sounds and influences. Who are the main artists you would highlight as inspirations? 

That's putting it lightly and, if you asked each of us that question, you'd get a totally different answer. The only band I'm sure that we're all into is the (Red Hot) Chili Peppers. Their style is definitely a big influence on what we do.

How would you say you have developed as a band since your start? Do you think you have grown in confidence and strength? 

I think our collective songwriting has gotten a lot better: we always used to come up with good ideas but, now, I think we have a better grasp of what sections fit together well and when it's best to just cut a section in half or remove it entirely. Every decision should be for the good of the overall song.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Chris Patmore

Can we see you tour this year? What gigs do you have coming along?

You'd have to ask our manager…

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

A triple-platinum album would be nice.

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

The time in Liverpool where I'd just finished my first gig. I was incredibly nervous and terrified I was going to screw up and embarrass myself in front of all my mates, and I didn't and it went really well! I was so elated that I tripped over coming off the stage. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rachel Naomi

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Oh, man…that's a tough one. I'd probably want to support Roddy Frame of the Scottish indie outfit Aztec Camera. Firstly, cos I'm a huge fan but, secondly, because I think we'd actually get on. As much as I love Led Zeppelin, I can't see us hitting it off for some reason.

As for the rider; I'd just ask for heaps of cocaine. I could flog it on the way home and double my money.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Love prevails. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Organised Scum

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Check out a band called Organised Scum. Don't be put off by the name: it's actually very gentle, emotional music. Also; my mate is in a pretty cool band called Scent. If they ever get round to putting more music out, it'll be worth a listen.

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

Not really. As well as Artbreak, I also gig for a living and, when I'm not doing that, I teach guitar and bass. When I do get some time off, I tend to read about politics, which is not very relaxing. 

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).

Play some Scent. It smells good. 

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INTERVIEW: Slim Loris

INTERVIEW:

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Slim Loris

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IT has been cool chatting with…

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the chaps of Slim Loris. Their E.P., Wild & Untamed, is out and I was interested to know about its current single, Hideaway. The Swedish-based band talk about their style of music and how they got together; whether there is more material coming later in the year – they tell me what gigs they have approaching.

I was interested to know whether they get much time away from music and what advice they would offer any new artists emerging; if they could support any artist alive today, who that would be – they end the interview by selecting a song each.

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

Very well, thank you. Been an exciting week, what with our video being released and our E.P. release coming up this week. 

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

We are Slim Loris from Stockholm, Sweden; a four-piece band that plays Indie-Rock mixed with ‘Scandicana’: a melancholic Swedish version of Americana. 

Hideaway is your new single. Can you tell me about it and how the track came together?

It’s a song of finding a safe place or hideaway to get away from the troubled times. 

It started off as a guitar line that our guitar player Robert wrote and presented to me that I turned into a song. We knew from the start that we wanted to do something different with it than our normal guitar, bass and drum setup. We had some ideas that our producer Pecka Hammarstedt took to another level. Very happy with the outcome. 

 

The video is pretty amusing! Whose concept was it? Do you get a big say in how your videos are presented?

It was all our director, Jonas Hong Soo Eriksson’s idea; his interpretation of the song. We know what he is capable of and pretty much gave him free hands with it. 

Is there going to be more material coming soon?

We aim to put out an E.P. a year so, hopefully, next spring there will be new material out. 

How did Slim Loris get together? When did you begin recording music?

It started out as me (Mattias) and Robert getting together just jamming in 2009. 

We´re old friends from our school days and fancied playing a bit together again. Songs started coming together and we recorded a few demos in the early days and felt we needed to take it further; so we added my old band mates from a band called Celebrate the Sun, Leon and Jonas, and recorded our first album, Down to Earth, in 2011.

 

Did you all grow up in musical households? Which artists inspired you to get into the industry?

There was always music around for all four of us growing up and a bit of amateur playing, too. Me and Leon grew up on our dads Beatles collection and – that’s been a major influence ever since. A lot of '90s stuff like Britpop and Trip-Hop with a sort of D.I.Y. mentality has also been a big influence. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Hopefully, for as many people as possible to get their eyes up for our music and to be able to get out and play live as much as possible: our favourite place to be.  

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

Playing at the Cavern Club in Liverpool and going on a U.K. tour a few years ago was the highlight for all of us. Being influenced by The Beatles and U.K. music, in general; it was a massive experience going up on that stage. 

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Tom Waits. Just a genius - and makes music like no one else. 

Some local beers, JD and coke; Loka (Swedish mineral water), some lighter food for three of us and stodgy belly filler for our drummer. 

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

So far, it’s only a few ones in Stockholm booked, but there are more to come. 

On 25th May, we will play at the festival IPO Stockholm; a great festival with lots of brilliant bands (Southside Cavern at 9 P.M.). 

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Is the stage somewhere where you all feel at your very best? How does it feel getting up there and performing to the people?

It’s our favourite place to be. Everything else just fades away and you’re in a moment of pure ecstasy, more or less. All the hard work with recording is getting paid off there, basically. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just have fun and do what feels right and find the right people to work with that can see your vision and take it further. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: One of 2018's IPO participants, Dim Vanilla

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Check out the bands playing at the IPO festivals. We´ve done a few and there’s always a high standard.

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

We´re all family men outside music, so any time not working or playing music is spent without families. 

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).

Frank Ocean (ft. Andre 3000) - Pink Matter 

Pearl Jam – Alive

Prince - When Doves Cry

Massive Attack - Karmacoma

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INTERVIEW: Mondegreen

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Dave Nelson Photography  

Mondegreen

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YOU can certainly not accuse Mondegreen of providing…

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little value and depth when it comes to interviews! I have been speaking with Claire, Leanne and Laura about the upcoming E.P., Change (out on 18th May), and what inspired the songs. They discuss their beginnings and whether they have grown in confidence over the past year; which new artists we need to get involved with – they each select an album that means a lot to them.

I asked the trio whether any gigs were in the pipeline; which artists they are inspired by; what they do when they are not making and playing music; if there’s any advice they’d give to new artists – a few great songs are picked to end the interview.

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

Claire: Hello! Our week has been okay. We've been busy shooting the photos for the new E.P. which is coming out this month - and we have been organising our E.P. launch gig too.

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

Leanne: We are Mondegreen; an Indie-Folk-tinged Acoustic-Pop band from Widnes (shout out to Widnes) based in Liverpool and Chester. We're big on harmonies and like things to sound pretty.

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Tell me a bit about your upcoming E.P., Change. What sort of themes inspired the songs?

The last E.P. had a more traditional Folk style based around the theme of the small town: this one has a little more attitude; it's a bit more female power-driven and we've been able to experiment with a different sound and use some new instruments.

Laura: We were also inspired by the focus on women in the music industry recently as a result of the Time’s Up initiative. So, one night, we just sat down and wrote about those experiences we’d had ourselves; the times where we had felt as though we were treated differently to male musicians or belittled. This is us standing up to that.

Will there be a single from the E.P. before its release?

Claire: We previewed the first song from it on Record Store Day. It’s called Sometimes and was the first song we all sat down and wrote together as a trio. So, that was quite exciting because it is a slightly new sound for us and we were looking forward to sharing it and will be even more excited when the whole thing comes out.

You have had a pretty busy past year or so. Have you noticed a growth in confidence since this time last year?

Laura: Playing festivals like Folk on the Dock and at The Atkinson in Southport, which is a wonderful big venue for us, really helped us grow in confidence. It was probably because it was the first time that we had people coming up to us and wanting to buy our C.D.s, so that was really special.

Leanne: The loveliest part of Folk on the Dock was that there were little girls there who wanted to get their picture taken with us, so we were living our girl band dreams that day! I think we have also gone down new avenues in the way that we write. Recording the first E.P. last year was actually a turning point for us because we heard the songs how we wanted to hear them for the first time and that pushed us to go on and try new things and to make us sound better, particularly when playing live too.

That was the first time that we had ever gone to a recording studio and we were lucky enough to be able to go to Post Electric Blues in Edinburgh and record with Rod Jones, which was pretty cool…and we were so happy with the way the songs turned out and how they developed so much that we went back again to do this E.P.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Burns Photography

Mondegreen is based in the North West. Is there a pretty varied and buzzing music scene there right now? Do you think many of us ignore the area in favour of London?

Laura: I don't feel that we are ignored in favour of London and honestly, I’m not sure the Liverpool music scene (the closest to us) even cares about that because it’s kind of in its own little bubble. It’s definitely varied: there are festivals for pretty much any kind of music over here. For us, though, we play in Liverpool quite often; we've often found it hard to break into those circles whereas when we’ve gone somewhere like London, people have been very receptive.

But, it’s all about knowing the right people and places to go to get gigs and then it can be great - and there are some great venues/communities like The Atkinson, which hosts bands from all over the world and over in Chester - where there seems to be a regular audience who want to come and support the music scene.

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How did you all get together? When did the band start to play?

Claire and I met at primary school and became best friends. Our teacher used to play the guitar during assembly and started putting on guitar lessons so we started learning to play the guitar together. We played as a duo for years (ten, to be exact!). Leanne is my sister and she has been playing by herself and in various bands but would always just hang out when we would practice and started singing along so two became three!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Burns Photography

Which musicians do you all count as favourites?

All: Idlewild…

Leanne: But, we also have to be honest and say we love Idlewild as much as the Spice Girls.

Claire: For me, it's Jason Isbell. Sheryl Crow is a favourite amongst us, too. Leanne's a fan of No Doubt and Sunny Day Real Estate and Laura would like to actually be Kacey Musgraves.

Laura: We've all grown up in very musical households. Leanne and I would always have our mum and dad’s music on in the car or in the kitchen; whether it was Elton John, ELO or the War of the Worlds’ soundtrack.

Claire: There was always a bit of Shania Twain or the Bee Gees going on in the Smith Household.

Leanne: We've all got quite varied music tastes, but it's quite similar at the same time. Like, Claire used to play Cher’s Believe on-repeat through her PlayStation 1, whereas I used to dress in leopard print and dance to it on my cassette player!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Burns Photography

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

Laura: This is a difficult one because the list always grows. I could listen to The Remote Part on-repeat forever. Idlewild is the band that really got me into music because it was the first band I was introduced as a teenager.

Claire: I'm going to have to say Anastacia’s Freak of Nature, because that was the one that I used to always listen to in my old loft bedroom at the top of my voice - and is probably the thing that made me want to do all this!

Leanne: 100 Broken Windows. I probably heard this album quite late having discovered Idlewild in the same way as Laura and Claire, but the first time I heard it I just thought that this was on its own level of good.

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

Laura: Yes, we do! So; we have our E.P. launch coming up on 18th May at The Studio in Widnes and that's part of their monthly Authentic Acoustic night. We're quite lucky because we have The Studio in Widnes which is a great venue and everyone who works there is friendly and willing to try new things; there is (just) such a good community there and the audience are always very willing to listen.

Leanne: I think, if you have something like that on your doorstep, you should make use of it. There was the worry, recently, that they may have to cancel one of their monthly nights because not enough people were coming and it's a shame because they are always great nights, but the word probably just doesn't spread far enough.

Claire: We're also playing a few places in Chester including Chester Live, Telford’s Warehouse and, also, in Liverpool. Then, we're back in Widnes again at The Snig, so we have should have a nice little summer of gigs lined up!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Burns Photography 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

All: Glastonbury for the following year! Ha.

Laura: Honestly; we would really love to be able to play some festivals that maybe we've not had the chance to before and to build on from last year. Last year was the first year that we really felt like we gave the band thing a proper go - and we're just really trying to do that again but ten times more.

Leanne: We just hope that people like these songs and they reach people who've not heard of us before. It would be really nice to think that someone stumbles upon our C.D. and then hears something in it that they like…

Claire: ...and, of course, to (just) get some more songs written for the next E.P.!

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

Laura: Definitely, playing Folk on the Dock last year. It was a big show for us anyway but when we got off the stage there was a line of people waiting to speak to us and buy C.D.s, which was something that had never happened to us before. So, that blew us away slightly and still makes us feel excited when we look back on it.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Leanne: The most important thing I would say is to make friends with people who are doing the same thing as you. If you're just going out to an open mic then go out with the intention of having a good time and playing is just the bonus, because it can be easy to forget that and just think that you're only there to play and go home. Because, it's not just playing, it's everything. It's the people who are there and the place you're in. I think, if you play like you mean it too, then people will listen.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Dawn and the Embers

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Laura: Yes. Strangers. We have played a few gigs with them and they're great. Dawn and the Embers because they are also a female trio and have really great songs (and are just lovely ladies).

Claire: White Little Lies. We played with them recently and their harmonies were, again, just lovely.

Leanne: Also, for no particular reason, we must also give praise to Gary Maginnis & the Like, Catherine Hardman and Careering.

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IN THIS PHOTO: White Little Lies

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

Leanne: Honestly, this is how we unwind. We're all quite busy people anyway and this is what we have to sandwich in because we love doing it - and Laura is far too obsessive about it to ever take a step back. Claire is an avid baker and the only other thing I enjoy doing is Arrowwords.

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).

Claire: Jason Isbell – Speed Trap Town

Laura: Sorry, but, Spice Girls - Move Over (it’s an album track, at least!)

Leanne: KC and the Sunshine Band - Give it Up…

Laura: …I think that captures us pretty well, actually.

Thank you!

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INTERVIEW: Lack of Afro

INTERVIEW:

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Lack of Afro

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IT is time to speak with Lack of Afro…

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about his current single, Back to the Day, and what he has planned for the future. I ask whether styles like Disco and Motown are influential when it comes to songwriting; what the main changes to the music are since 2016’s Hello Baby; what gigs are coming up – Lack of Afro recommends a new artist to watch carefully.

I ask him what we can expect from the album, Jack of All Trades (out on 18th May) and what he hopes to achieve this year; how it feels getting positive reaction from the press; what advice he would give to new songwriters – Lack of Afro shares a fond memory from his time in music.

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Hi, Lack of Afro. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello! All good, thanks. It’s the first show of the new album tour this Sunday, so everything is in total overdrive getting ready for that…I’m exhausted and we haven’t even started yet!

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

I’m a producer and multi-instrumentalist from the South West of England. My music is a blend of the old with the new and I’m about to release my sixth studio album called Jack of All Trades.

Back to the Day is your new one. What is the story behind the song?

That one was written with Elliott Cole who sings vocal, plays guitar and bass on the song. I’d wanted to do a track with a Jackson 5 vibe for a while and so we gave it a crack – luckily, it turned out pretty well.

It has summer written all over it. Did you set out to pen something people could get down to?

Definitely! That was the brief really: it had to be dancefloor-worthy and it had to make people feel good.

I hear shades of Disco and Motown legends. What sort of music/artists do you vibe from?

Yeah absolutely – that track has The Jackson 5 all over it. I guess I wanted to see if I could do the genre justice. As a producer, you’re always learning. I’ve definitely learnt a lot since the last album and it’s always nice to try out genres you haven’t attempted before – experimenting with different styles, songwriting and instrumentation is kind of where it’s at for me these days...

Generally, though, it completely depends. I’ve never really stuck to one genre: I like to mix it up so I tend to be influenced by a lot of different artists working in different styles. I listen to a lot of Hip-Hop (Piñata by Freddie Gibbs is on heavy rotation at the moment), Disco (a recent favourite is Harvey Sutherland’s Expectations E.P.); Soul (Otis Redding’s Otis Blue; anything by Sam Cooke, Motown; Stax and Atlantic), Rock (forgot how good Pinkerton by Weezer is); Jazz (Cannonball Adderley’s Somethin’ Else), some amazing modern Funk and Soul by Vulfpeck; Sex & Food by Unknown Mortal Orchestra, which has a bit of everything in it and last, but by no means least, two of my all-time favourites: Tapestry by Carole King and Aja by Steely Dan.

That’s what I’ve been listening to recently. I’ll be compiling an ongoing Spotify playlist in time for the new album’s release, so people can check out what I’ve been listening to.

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Elliott Cole is on the track. How important is it having him in the mix?

Elliott is amazing. He’s got it all really – an awesome voice, a great bass player; a fine guitarist and, to top it off, he’s a lovely bloke too! I feel very fortunate to be able to write songs with him, to be able to record his voice and I get to play live with him also. He’s just an incredible all-round musician.

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Jack of All Trades is out on 18th May. What influences did you bring into the album? Were there particular themes that compelled the songwriting?

The sound I’m able to get now (together with the way of working) has changed since the last album. I have a new studio in the basement of my house that has a separate live room, as well as a 1970s ex-broadcast mixing desk in the control room that everything was recorded through. The addition of the separate live room has meant a much tighter sound when recording the drums, piano; vocals and percussion and it has allowed me to be able to experiment with the drum sounds in-particular.

All the instruments are mic’d up and ready to go which makes such a difference too – if I have an idea I don’t have to worry about setting up microphones as everything is already good to go.

With every album I do, I always set out to better the last one - at least to me, anyway. That’s always the songwriting brief: to progress and just write better ones!

Is there a song from the album, you feel, defines the album?

There isn’t, actually. I think you’d be hard pushed to pick a song from any of my albums that defines that particular record as, musically, they’re pretty much all over the place! I like to think though that, despite the disparate musical styles present in each one, that they all have certain coherence to them.

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In the past; you have been lauded by radio and publications. Is that sort of backing important?

It’s important in that it can give you a certain confidence to keep on doing what you do. This industry can be very tough at the best of times, so hearing a track of yours on BBC Radio 6 Music (for example) can really give you a lift. Likewise; when you see your music in a film or T.V. show. I guess it’s a form of validation. As an artist, it’s vital to make music that you feel passionate about but to be able to make a living from it means that other people have to respond to it too.

Jack of All Trades is a good example of the rollercoaster. One minute, I’m thinking it’s some of the best material I’ve produced, to the next, then thinking that no-one is going to like it. It’s how it goes!

How far do you think you have come since 2016’s Hello Baby? Are you a more confident artist?

I would say so, yes.

Generally, you tend to grow more comfortable in your own skin as you get older, which is definitely true in my case and I think that has had an effect on where I am as an artist. I like to think that I’m making some of my best music these days and despite being over ten years in, I still have lots to say. I’m grateful to be able to have my own label which means there’s an outlet for any project I’d like to do.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Honestly; I just hope that people enjoy the new album! By the way, hats off to any artist who makes an album; puts it out there and stands by it, as it’s one of the hardest things you can do.

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

There are so many – hearing your first single on national radio for the first time was very special (Wait a Minute, way back in 2006).

Recently, though, I had a text from Madlib who said he liked my music, which was incredible. He’s been a hero of mine for years - I remember reading interviews with him when I started out and buying all his L.P.s on Stones Throw (his Yesterday’s New Quintet project was the direct inspiration for my Unity Sextet series. I stole the idea, basically!).

We’ve actually chatted quite a lot since and I’ve learnt a lot from him. To have someone like that respond to what you do is more than you can hope for. There’s even talk of us working together, which would be insane!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stick to your guns, be honest with yourself and always have faith in your ability.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The Fearless Flyers – a Vulf Records offshoot!

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

I’m a husband and a father too, so a lot of my time is spoken for! I love the beach though and sea swimming is definitely good for the soul. I’m a rugby and cricket fan too and watch both whenever I can.

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

A Brighter Darkness by The Mighty Mocambos

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INTERVIEW: Justine of Holy Roar Records

INTERVIEW:

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Justine of Holy Roar Records

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IT is a busy time for Justine of Holy Roar Records…

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so I was lucky to catch some time with her and ask all about the Label Lodge. The Label Lodge is a collaboration of Soho Radio, AIM and Jägermeister. For more information on events, artist announcements; scheduled performances and residency details for the Label Lodge visit the Soho Radio website, the AIM website or keep an eye on #JagerSoho on Twitter.

I found out about the event and all the goings-on; how Justine got involved with Holy Roar Records; what advice she would offer anyone looking to set up a label; what it is like working alongside Jäger Soho – she tells me whether her band, Employed to Serve, are releasing new material and whether working for a label impacts and aids her music.

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

Good, thank you! I’ve been dipping in and out of the studio recording vocals for my band’s (Employed to Serve) third album and setting up the Holy Roar Label Lodge pop-up!

I am interested knowing more about Holy Roar Records. Can you tell me how it came together and what inspired you to join the fold?

Alex started the label back in 2005 and started releasing CDs for local bands and friends’ bands he liked. The label is named after one of his favourite band’s songs, Holy Roar (by Torche). I started working for the label after I finished uni in 2014.

Holy Roar was releasing Employed to Serve’s first E.P. and Alex asked me if I wanted to intern. I started interning and worked my way up to being the full-time label manager.

You have a pop-up week coming. What is the idea behind it? Where can we come and see that?

Soho Radio and Jägermeister have very kindly lent their space, Jäger Soho, to us for seven days. Each year they run the Label Lodge in association with AIM (Association of Independent Music) where they have pop-up shops from different labels from all genres for a week each - and give them a great space to sell their releases and host acoustic in stores.

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Which artists will be playing? What is the main objective of the event/pop-up?

The main idea behind it is to give the label a face, so to speak.

It’s nice for our followers to be able to see the people behind the label and also great for us to meet them! It’s easy to feel detached when everything is online-based. We have acoustic sets from our bands Modern Rituals, Apologies; I Have None and Serena Cherry (Svalbard).

How does it feel working with Jäger Soho? Are you excited to collaborate with the brand?

Very excited. They’ve been very welcoming and we feel very lucky to be given the opportunity to occupy such a great space!

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How would you define the work Holy Roar does – what is the ethos of the label? Who are the best new acts you have on the roster?

We release bands we love, not because we think they will ‘sell’, that’s the very core of our label. The label and our roster are very close-knit and help each other out: it’s more like a community as opposed to a business. Our most exciting newcomers at the moment are MØL, Giver; Modern Rituals, Boss Keloid and Garganjua. We have also released awesome new albums from Rolo Tomassi and Conjurer this year!

If anyone wanted to set up a label or join one; what would you say are the biggest advantages and pitfalls, perhaps?

One of the biggest advantages is doing something you love; meeting great new people and helping bands you love succeed. The only pitfall is, sometimes, releases don’t do as well as you’d hoped, which can be frustrating when you absolutely love the album! Apart from that, it’s a really gratifying thing to do but it’s not easy so expect to put in a lot of time!

You get out of it what you put in.

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There are a lot of great labels sprouting up at the moment – most coming from larger cities like London. Do you think the openness and accessibility of music, and rise of streaming, means there is greater viability?

I think accessibility is a gift and a curse: it’s harder to stand out but at the same time easier for people to hear your music. Another great thing that’s come from streaming/digital is that a label can start by releasing bands digitally first to gauge people’s interest in buying physical albums. This means labels can start with a much smaller startup cost.

Employed to Serve is your band. How did the group get together? Do you think your work with an upcoming label positively impacts your music – giving you a better understanding of the industry and what the daily realities entail?

The band started off as a two-piece consisting of myself and guitarist Sammy Urwin and we used programmed drums for our first two E.P.S. We started to gain a great amount interest despite not having ever played a show and decided to add a (real) drummer, bassist and guitarist in the mix…two albums later and here we are!

Being in a band and working for a label really helps to understand the way the music industry works as you get both perspectives from both sides of the industry and how everything works.

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Is there going to be new material coming from the band? Are you working on stuff at the moment?

As of this week, we would have finished recording our third album and we can’t wait for everyone to hear it!

I understand you have a column in Kerrang! Do you think print media is still in a stable condition? What are the biggest assets of working for a reputable and solid publication like Kerrang!?

I think print media is doing well at the moment, especially when the quality of the magazines are so great! It’s really awesome to have a platform for me to yell about the bands that I love - that’s the best thing about it.

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What advice would you give to new artists and creative-minded people coming through?

Work hard and be nice to people. Honestly; I can’t stress enough how this industry is all about going out of your way to chat to people. You’ll meet some lifelong friends doing this.

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose a song and I’ll play it here.

Awesome!

Homewrecker - Fade to Oblivion

Thanks for having me!

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The Label Lodge pop-up dates:

23rd - 29th April: 1965 Records

30th April – 6th May: Distiller

7th – 13th May: Holy Roar

14th – 20th May: Acid Jazz

21st – 27th May: Wah Wah 45s

4th – 10th June: Women In CTRL

11th – 17th June: Wichita

18th – 24th June: 4AD

25th June – 4th July: Communion 

2nd – 8th July: Sunday Best

9th – 15th July: Partisan

INTERVIEW: Hollow Coves

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Sean Jones 

Hollow Coves

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THE rare force of…

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Hollow Coves is one you do not want to be without. The Australian duo have amassed a passionate fanbase and no surprise as songs like Ran Away and The Woods have struck a chord and are fantastic pieces of work - they explain the story of the former; I ask about the video for the later.

Ryan and Matt talk about forming Hollow Coves and picking up success; when they are hitting the road; the advice they would offer new songwriters emerging – I learn when music came into their lives and what they hope to accomplish to before the end of the year.

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

Hey! We are very well, thanks. Our week has been good. Just finished up a tour opening for Tom Walker at ten shows throughout Europe. Now, we are in England making our way up to Leeds before the Live at Leeds festival this weekend. 

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

We’re an Indie-Folk duo from the East Coast of Australia. We write chilled Acoustic songs.

What can you reveal about your new song, Ran Away? What is the story behind it?

I think the story behind Ran Away is a story that is familiar to a lot of people: it was written about a lost friendship/relationship. What was once a close friendship slowly drifted apart and, over time, this person started heading in a different direction in life and started making bad decisions - and in the process became almost unrecognisable. It was something we had both experienced with different people in our lives. 

You have released the video for The Woods. Can you tell me about how it came together and what it was like creating it?

Matt had a mutual friend from the Sunshine Coast who was a producer and, after showing him the song, he came back with this really cool idea for the video and we loved it. The concept told the story of six characters that are all living different lifestyles; all doing different things to try to feel fulfilled.

As the story progresses; you see that each character is not fulfilled and it builds up to them eventually running and leaving it all behind. Then, in the end, they all meet around a fire where they feel the joy of community with others.

He had an amazing team of guys that he put together for the video. He also intertwined some shots of us singing and playing and used some really cool visual effects to overlay images of the locations of each of the characters. 

The E.P., Wanderlust, has proved very popular. Have you been surprised by the success it has accrued?

Yeah. We can’t believe how much support the E.P. has received. We definitely weren’t expecting it...

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Will there be more material coming later this year?

We’re going to be in the studio in the next couple of months working on new material so, if all goes well, we should hopefully have some new material to put out (*fingers crossed*).

Ryan and Matt. How did you meet one another? When did Hollow Coves come to be?

We met each other in 2013 and, I guess, that’s when Hollow Coves began. Although, it wasn’t really anything then: it was just the two of us writing some songs out of the love of music. We met through a mutual friend. We had both been doing music stuff separately and then, one day, we decided to meet up and have a jam...and it just kinda worked.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jordy Merry

Did you both grow up in musical households? Can you remember the first album you each bought?

Matt:  Everyone in my family played an instrument while I was growing up - actually, they all still do. The first album I bought was a punk band called MXPX. 

Ryan: No one in my household played an instrument when I was growing up but there was always a piano in the house and my parents are music lovers, so there’s was always music in the house. I have a terrible memory so I can't remember the first album I bought. I think it might have been Blur or something weird like that. 

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

We are heading down to London and we’re playing at Omeara on May 15th. Then, heading down to Brighton for The Great Escape festival on May 17th; then, we have some studio time after that. Then, playing Bushstock in London on June 23rd; then, a bit more studio time before heading back to Australia in August for a headline tour. 

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

World peace...we're going to be working on a lot of new music as well. 

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

Ryan: The one that came to mind first was actually quite a recent memory from our show in Montreal. We were heading toward the end of our North American tour and Matt and I were both kinda tired. We were backstage before the show and we were both feeling pretty flat. Then, as soon as we went out, the crowd just gave off so much energy. Everyone was singing along and going wild for every song.

The room was absolutely jam-packed and it was just such a beautiful night. Definitely, a memory that I will cherish for a while.

Matt: Travelling through Norway and working in a studio on the coast outside of Bergen. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Sean Jones

If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Maybe Mumford & Sons. I saw them live a few years ago and the energy in the crowd was amazing. For the rider; we don't need a lot. Just a good healthy meal and some water would do us just fine. Oh, and Matt wants a sausage dog to play with backstage. Haha. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don't settle for anything you're not happy with. Have fun with it. Love music. Try to keep pushing when you think you've hit a wall. Be a nice person. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Austin Basham

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Austin Basham, Riley Pearce and Alexander Biggs. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Alexander Biggs/PHOTO CREDIT: Ash Koek

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

Lately, it’s been pretty full-on. On the road, we have been playing a fair bit of Monopoly Deal. That’s always a good time. Back home, when we have time off, Matt is usually out surfing and I used to skateboard a lot but, these days, I just catch up with friends and go explore somewhere beautiful and take photos. 

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).

Ryan: Austin Basham - All Is Well 

Matt: Oh Wonder – Ultralife

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Follow Hollow Coves

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INTERVIEW: Parker Matthews

INTERVIEW:

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Parker Matthews

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FROM Italy…

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it is over to L.A. for a chat with Parker Matthews. The Pop artist tells me about his new single, Hit and Run, and how he manages to balance a contemporary, accessible sound with something unique – he talks about his experiences of being bullied and why it has made him more determined.

Matthews discusses albums and artists who are important to him; whether there are any gigs locked down; whether he gets time to chill away from music – and, more importantly, whether new material is coming down the road.

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

Hey. I'm doing great. How are you? My week has been super-busy, but good!

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

What’s up, guys? I'm Parker Matthews.

Hit and Run is your new song. Can you explain how the song came together – what started the ball rolling?

Hit and Run came from the idea of me wanting to give someone more than a one-night stand. 

It is a contemporary Pop song but not polished, needlessly, for the mainstream. Did you work hard to ensure it had some commercial appeal but kept its edge and unique flavour?

Yes. I wanted to song to have some edge to it while still being able to be looked at from a commercial eye. 

What comes next in terms of material? Will we see an E.P. later this year?

So; I am going to be releasing a lot of material this year and am going with standalone singles, because I want them each to stand on their own.

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Talk to me about your experiences with bullying. Did you face a lot of torment growing up at all? Did that compel you to align with anti-bullying and suicide-prevention charities?

I did. Growing up was a terrible time for me and going to school was something I dreaded each and every day. However, learning that it truly does get better has influenced me to grow and align with several suicide prevention groups. 

Obviously; supporting the L.G.B.T.Q. community is a big thing for you. Do you think a lot of artists in the community are overlooked because of their sexuality?

I think the idea of artists being overlooked because of their sexuality is becoming less and less as we, as a country, progress.

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Which musicians did you grow up around? When did music come into your life?

I grew up being inspired by so many artists, especially my hometown girl, Christina Aguilera. Music is something that has touched me ever since I can remember. It truly saved my life.  

Is Los Angeles a great place to make music? How important are the people in terms of your music and ambitions?

L.A. is a great place for music. Really, it's between L.A. and N.Y.C. but, for me, the weather out here had me sold! Also; it's great to go to the beach and write, and also, the people I've added to my team out here have really made the process amazing.

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

I am set to perform at a few Pride’s this summer. More info to come soon!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want to engage with as many fans as possible; really grow as an artist over this year and tell the world my story. 

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

I think my favorite memory is a writing session I had and during that night. I was sitting in the same chair as (Lady) Gaga when she uses that studio. That was truly an inspiring moment!

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

For sure, Stripped by Christina Aguilera

Because every single song on that album has such an incredible message behind it.

Really; any of Sia's albums, because she takes most other songs other artists turned down and makes a masterpiece out of them!

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I'd say to keep your eye on the prize and really focus on your vision and who you are as an artist.  

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Camila Cabello

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Camila Cabello. Her music is great!

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

I don't have much downtime but, when I do, I am always with friends or having a movie night at home.

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).

Beautiful by Christina Aguilera

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Follow Parker Matthews

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INTERVIEW: Forbidden Seasons

INTERVIEW:

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Forbidden Seasons

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JUST after mentioning a lack of Australian content…

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on my site, I am faced with an Italian band! It seems like this is a day for exploring and investigating artists from parts of the planet some of us take for granted. The guys of Forbidden Seasons have been telling me about their latest track, Wormhole, and its evocative video.

I ask what it has been like receiving praise for this debut album, Promise, and what they have planned for the rest of the year; they select a new artist to check out; whether they get much time to detach away from music – they each choose an album that means a lot to them.

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

Hi, to you! Everything’s fine, thanks. We had a normal week: practising and working like always.

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

We are Forbidden Seasons; a Metalcore band born in 2016 in Turin. Our music is both melodic and aggressive; a great mix for everyone approaching Metalcore for the first time. We just released our debut full-length album, entitled Promise, so make sure to check it out!

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Tell me about Wormhole and the story behind the song.

Wormhole is our last single off the new album, Promise. The song is a halfway between Metalcore and Pop culture. Keys and synths are the main protagonists, developed on a main melancholic and dramatic violin track. The chorus was written first, very open and epic: “I've got your demon inside" means a lot of things in different ways and, for this reason, the song is developed between F minor and A# major, to describe the anger and the hope.

We wanted to create a Pop sound and, at the same time, powerful and strong parts; to catch all those people facing Metalcore/Post-Hardcore for the first time

 

The video is explosive and raw! What was it like filming it? Was it a fun shoot?!

We really enjoyed filming the video; the entity was played by one of the two directors of the video - and it was really funny shooting those scenes! We also loved the playback scenes. The location was on the top floor of a huge villa, without an elevator, so it was very hard to bring all the backline and instruments up and down the stairs. Anyway; it’s been a really cool experience!

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Wormhole is taken from your debut L.P., Promise. It has gained good reviews already! Has it been encouraging seeing people react so positively?

Of course, yes. All of the work we’ve been doing is for our fans and people who don’t know us yet; so, when we see positive reactions, we couldn’t be happier. It means that the song is working!

Are you already looking ahead to another album – or concentrating on touring your debut album?

Both. We never stop composing new music, but now we’re focusing on creating a perfect live show, to tour and promote the new album. 

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You are a Turin band. What is the music scene like there? How did Forbidden Seasons get together?

The scene is not so good…at least not for Metal music. There are many good Rock/Metal bands in Italy but the music industry focuses on Pop and Rap artists, so it’s hard to emerge.

We are five guys from the same town, with the common dream of being musicians, so, we decided to create this band…

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What sort of music did you all grow up on? Which musicians stick in the mind? 

We all grew up with different kinds of music; so each of us put his influences in our songs. 

The most inspiring musicians for us are Jason Richardson, Luke Holland; John from the band Northlane (we bought his sound-pack for our Kempers), Lucas Mann from Rings of Saturn and Corey Taylor from Slipknot.

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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? 

Fede: Sempiternal by Bring Me the Horizon

Danny: Ultu Ulla by Rings of Saturn

Paul: All Our Gods Have Abandoned Us by Architects

Symon: Mesmer by Nothlane 

Mark: Sleepless by Adept

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

We have to focus on few other things right now, but we’re always working on tours planning. So, as soon as we have any news we’ll let you know.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

For 2018, we want to travel as much as we can to share Promise with people and, of course, we’ll start to think about new songs for the future.

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

Each of us has had their own way/route into the music world: many memories are good, others are bad. I think I speak for everyone when I say that the best memory was our first gig plus; a meet-and-greet as Forbidden Seasons in Moscow (2017). We will never forget that moment - and we can’t wait to be back!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To every new artist out there, we want to give you this advice: follow your dreams and never give up because life is only one and you have to live it, filling it with your passion. Also; never stop practising and improving skills with your instrument!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Cry Excess

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Follow Cry Excess. We’re close friends here in Turin and they’re a great band with a huge attitude in the music business!

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

We love to spend as much time as we can in the studio - and in our practice room - to train our skills; we love playing and we relax doing it. For sure. We have free time and we spend it with our friends or parents... 

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).

Here are our favourite songs:

Paul: Gravedigger – Architects

Symon: Drown – Bring Me the Horizon

Fede: Dispossession - Northlane

Danny: Senseless Massacre - Rings of Saturn

Mark: The Sinner - Memphis May Fire

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Follow Forbidden Seasons

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INTERVIEW: Harrison Storm

INTERVIEW:

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Harrison Storm

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THERE is a part of the world that deserves…

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greater exposure on my blog: I am spotlighting far fewer Australian artists than I’d like! Luckily, Harrison Storm is here to quench that thirst! He discusses his upcoming single, Feeling You, and what it is about; what themes influenced his E.P., Change It All (released last year) – I ask about his childhood and how early musical experiences impacted his career and ambitions.

He talks about dropping out of university to pursue his dreams; what tour dates he has coming up; the three albums that mean the most to him; whether he has a favourite memory from music – Storm reveals what his plans for the remainder of the year are.

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

Hello! I’m great, thanks (smiles). The week has been really cool. I’m in the U.S. for a bunch of songwriting sessions, so it’s a busy but a super-creative time.   

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

I’m a singer-songwriter from the Mornington Peninsula, Australia (Which is about an hour south of Melbourne) and I play Indie-Folk.

Feeling You, your upcoming single, is out on 25th May. What is the story behind the song?

It’s a song about being captivated by someone for the first time...

Your E.P., Change It All, was released late last year. Were there particular events and inspiration points that compelled the music? How personal are the tracks on the E.P.?

All the tracks on the E.P. (each) have their own stories and meanings to me. The thing I love about songwriting is that you capture a moment in time in sound form and, for me, the emotions that I decide to capture are always so varied.

The title-track, Change It All, was written when I was quite down about a lot of things…and is a song about facing those darker thoughts with a different perspective.

Is it true, when you were twenty, you organised an acoustic night near your home in Victoria (Australia)? What was the reason behind that?

It is true! Some of my favourite memories of music are from those nights. I got a call out of the blue from a friend of a friend who found out I played music and wanted me to book the live music for a new night they were starting. 

At first, I was reluctant, in part, because I didn’t know any other musicians and I’d only played music for my friends and myself. But, I took the plunge and it turned out to be a really popular night, with people lining up for hours to get in at its peak. I was booking local artists and we built a cool musical community where we’d share our original songs. It’s still going, five years later, although, at a different venue and with a different booker. But, it’s still a great place for new artists to play for the first time!

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You left to university to follow music; you started busking to develop your craft. Did you expect to go from where you were then to the man who put together a debut E.P. in 2015? Was it a rather nervous leap?!

Leaving university was a tough time for me. I really liked studying Engineering; although my passion for music was stronger. So, leaving was something I won’t regret. Everything that led up to putting together the E.P. was quite surprising. Everyone that is a part of it appeared in my life from putting myself out there. It all fell together in such a weird and special way.

It seems your childhood was quite idyllic – living near the beach and learning to play an Ibanez guitar. What are your memories of that time? Which musicians did you aspire to be like and follow at a young age?

My family’s property, growing up, had a creek running through the back of it, which led to the beach. So, my friends and I would always be exploring the creek, building little forts and spending time at the beach. It was awesome. Yeah, my mum had a beautiful acoustic Ibanez guitar lying around. She taught me Blackbird by The Beatles and we’d always listen to Neil Young, Fleetwood Mac and The Beatles.

I guess I just wanted to be like those artists at a young age: strumming the acoustic guitar and singing.

What is the music scene like where you are in Australia? Do you find there are a lot of varied and interesting sounds bubbling around?

There are a few bands on the Mornington Peninsula who are making some cool music, which is all pretty varied. But, if you drive an hour north to Melbourne, that’s where all sorts of stuff is going on. As much as I love Melbourne, I like the peace and quiet of the Mornington Peninsula...especially for writing.

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

I have a bunch! I’m playing some showcases in North America this May and then I head to the U.K. and Europe for some touring with New Zealand artist Louis Baker at the end of May and into June. Check out my website for dates.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’ve been writing a lot lately, so I’m feeling quite creative. I really can’t wait to share some of these new songs and visit places I’ve never been before, playing some shows!

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

It was probably my first ever headline show in 2015. We booked this really cosy room in Melbourne and didn’t really expect many people to come...

Anyway; my guitarist Justin Lewis and myself busked three-four times per week leading up to the gig as promotion and we ended up filling the entire room on the night. Think it was just shy of three-hundred people…and they were singing the words. I won’t ever forget that.

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

Neil Young – Harvest

A lot of memories are tied to this album - from my parents playing it when I was growing up. A true favourite.

Ben Howard - I Forget Where We Were

This album lived in my car’s C.D. player and I think its the album I’ve listened to the most. It never gets old for me.

Jeff Buckley – Grace

One of the greats - and this album is pure gold to my ears.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I think busking is such a great way to get your music out there in a really organic way. So, get onto the streets!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Hollow Coves

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I am a big fan of Hollow Coves. Beautiful, beautiful music.

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

Yeah. I guess, if music gets too much to me, I’ll go for a surf; a walk or something. But, usually, my decompressor is reading a book before bed. Something really boring like that. Haha.

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

Jack the Fox – Brother

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INTERVIEW: Young Braves

INTERVIEW:

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Young Braves

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THE boys of Young Braves have been gabbing…

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about their newest release, Hunters, and what the song is all about. I discover how Young Braves formed and how their music/ranks have evolved/shifted; what sort of sounds they all listen to and take guidance from – they tell me what sort of dates are booked in the diary.

I ask what it was like (almost) supporting Fleetwood Mac; whether there is a healthy music scene where they are in Shropshire; which new acts we need to get our chops around; what they all want to accomplish before the end of this year is done – the chaps select a cool song to end the interview with.

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

Elliot: Hey, Sam. We’re doing good, thanks. Our week has been quite pleasant: a mixture of working our jobs in between rehearsing and writing new music. We just found out that Hunters is Record of the Week on our local BBC Introducing show, which we’re all dead proud of, and the music video came out on Friday, so that was pretty exciting as well.

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

Ollie: We’re Young Braves (Ollie, Jacob; Elliot and Max); an Alternative-Rock band from Shropshire, England. We’ve been playing music together for around ten years now; starting when we were between the ages of ten and twelve-years-old - and we’ve been writing music for as long as we can remember.

We’ve recently been through a bit of a rebuilding phase, with a lot going on behind the scenes, which includes the addition of our new friend and drummer, Max; so we’re treating this year as a kind of ‘fresh start’ and can’t wait to get back out there.

Hunters is your new song. Can you reveal how it came together and what its inspiration is?

We’ve actually been sitting on Hunters for quite a while, but we all agreed that it’d be a great first track to bring us back out onto our feet again. It was one of those tracks that kind of wrote itself, really. You start with an idea and the next bit just naturally follows...

Jacob: Yeah. Musically, it all came together pretty quickly, to be honest. I was already working on another song, that was going to have three distinct sections rather than a standard structure at the time, and Hunters just started off as the first section of that track. Once I got to what is now the chorus of Hunters, I knew it had to become its own thing.

So; I carried on working on the demo through the night and pretty much had it finished within four hours.

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Ollie: It was the same with vocals, too. When Jacob played it to me, that chorus melody was the first thing I sang and I remember saying: “Wait; that’s it, I gotta record that in my phone!”. In terms of the lyrics, the song isn’t based on personal events but a story about being with a girl who won’t let her guard down. She tries to mask her insecurities by saying hurtful things: “It’s so subtle when you say you hate me”/“I feel so lucky when you say I’m useless” and she tries to push you away by being so closed (off) and untrusting: “Admission is tribal, you try to set me up and again you’re tearful/It’s an evil”.

But; it’s also a love story, you know. You care about this girl and you can see she’s hurting and you just wanna be there, and for her to trust you and let you in so that you can help her and make her happy. 

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How does a Young Braves song come to be? Do you all write together – or will someone take lead?

Jacob: It varies from song to song, really. It’s a pretty collaborative process. Sometimes, one of us will come in with a completed song and then we’ll all give suggestions if we think anything can be improved. Other times, somebody will come up with an idea and the rest of us will take it, put our ideas in and build it up that way…

Ollie: …and sometimes we’ll just jam something random and end up with some really cool ideas. There is a lot of unused stuff that we always go back to as well. We’re constantly writing new material; so we like to revisit any ideas that we couldn’t quite finish the first time around with fresh ears and, sometimes, that can lead to some great stuff.

You formed in the summer of 2013. Did you all know one another before then? When did you know you had to make music together?

Elliot and I are brothers, so we’ve always known each other, but we met Jacob at an open mic night when we were nine and eleven-years-old, where he used to play a few songs with his friend, and Elliot and I played together. We started out kind of like rivals and it became a sort of competition where we would try to outdo each other. Eventually, Jacob caved and asked us to join a band with him and, funnily enough, we became best friends rather quickly.

Max is the newest member of the band and we met him through a mutual friend. This was only a few months ago - but he’s already part of the family.

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Shropshire is where you are from. Is there a substantial music scene there? What kind of sounds are coming from the area?

Max: There was a period, about five-or-so years ago, when there were loads of bands doing bits in the area, but there’s not much going on in Shropshire anymore. There are not even many decent venues here now, so we mostly travel to Birmingham and treat that as our local area, really, because there are so many great venues and bands there. 

What sort of music do you all like listening to? Do you have quite similar tastes?

Ollie: There’s a lot of common ground when it comes to what we listen to. Artists we all like include Pixies, Nirvana; The Maccabees, Kings of Leon; Jeff Buckley, The Smiths…the list is endless. Haha. Jacob listens to a lot of Radiohead, Wild Beasts; Broken Social Scene, Car Seat Headrest, and I also listen to stuff like Kendrick Lamar, John Mayer; Mac DeMarco, Bombay Bicycle Club etc.

Max is mainly into much heavier music, but we’re gradually beating that out of him and giving him playlists of Alternative/Indie bands and songs to listen to that he’d like. Haha.

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

Max: Yeah. We’re trying to get as many gigs lined up as possible at the moment. We’re heading down to London on Wednesday to support Suffer Like G Did with Death and the Penguin in Kingston, and then we’re back closer to home on Saturday supporting Red Rum Club at Albert’s Shed in Shrewsbury.

Elliot: …and we’ve also got a headline show at The Actress and Bishop in Birmingham on Friday, 8th June which we are dead-excited about as well.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Ollie: We had a real tough time last year and we went through some pretty unfortunate stuff, which resulted in last year being our quietest year to date. We’ve spent a lot of time rebuilding the band over the last few months, writing loads of new material - which we feel are some of the best songs we’ve ever written.

We also have a team of really amazing people working with us now and we’re looking to keep building momentum; releasing content throughout 2018 in preparation to make 2019 our biggest and most exciting year as a band…

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

Elliot: I think our favourite memory has got to be when we supported The Amazons at their sell-out show in Birmingham last year. We played at Mama Roux’s, which was a great venue, and the crowd was sick. We spoke to the guys from The Amazons after the show and they were so down to earth and really supportive of us as well.

Hopefully, we’ll get to play with them again sometime in the future.

Is it true you were asked to play a Black Keys show – Fleetwood Mac were also due to appear! Even though the gigs, at Birmingham’s 02 Arena, were cancelled; what was it like being asked after only one single?!

Jacob: Yeah. They were two different shows but we were asked to play on the Forum stage at both the Black Keys and Fleetwood Mac shows at the LG/Genting Arena in Birmingham. The Black Keys cancelled quite a while before the show due to the drummer getting injured, but the Fleetwood Mac show was cancelled just after we’d sound-checked, minutes before the doors opened, which was absolutely gutting as they’re one of our favourite bands!

We were so happy that we were asked, though, and it would have been an unbelievable experience…especially when we were so young as well.

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

There are a few artists that I’d really love to have a chance to support, but I think Radiohead would probably be at the top of that list.

As for my rider; it would be pretty simple, as well: just a few bottles of IPA, a pack of smokes and a decent meal to keep me going.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Max: Rehearse as much as possible and take every opportunity that comes your way.

Jacob: I’d say, make sure that you are all committed to the same goal: you don't want to have one of you pulling all of the weight while the others just show up or just treat it as a hobby, especially if your goal is to make something out of being a musician. It’s a hard thing to achieve; there are lots of ups and downs but, as long as you all have the same passion for it, then there is no reason why you can't make it work.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Golden Age of TV/PHOTO CREDIT: Andrew Benge

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Elliot: There’s a band we know called The Golden Age of TV who are really great and doing really well at the moment. A friend of mine is in a band called Party Hardly and they’re really cool.

There’s Middle Kids; an Australian band who are wicked, and a couple of local bands called Only Shadows and Candid who are also really cool. You should definitely check all of those guys out!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Middle Kids

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

Ollie: We do spend a lot of time working on our music, but we all have things that we enjoy doing in the spare time we do get. Me and Elliot have recently got massively into basketball, so we’ll go and play at our local court or watch NBA games. It’s always nice to have a lazy day, just chilling with our girlfriends as well; binging on Netflix series/films and going on walks etc. All that good stuff. Haha. 

Jacob: Yeah. I like to watch a lot of films, too, and go for long drives to clear my mind.

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).

The Golden Age of TV – Beast

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Follow Young Braves

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INTERVIEW: Louise Golbey

INTERVIEW:

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Louise Golbey

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SPEAKING to Louise Golbey…

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and one gets that instant sense of place and passion. The talented songwriter tells me about her latest single, Still, and what the story behind it is. I ask her when music came into her life and what it has been like performing with some of music’s biggest names – she reveals a few albums that have impacted her particularly hard.

Golbey reveals what the positive reaction to her E.P., Love It or Leave It, felt like and what her plans are going forward; where we can catch her perform; what she would tell new artists breaking through; how important the stage is to her – Golbey reveals her favourite memory from her time in music.

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

Not bad, thanks. Had a good, but it's been busy week promoting my new single.

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

I'm an independent artist based in London. My sound is Neo-Soul/Soulful Pop.

Still is your new single. Can you tell me what the background to the song is? 

It's a song about unrequited love - but with a hopeful message! 

What was it like working with producer Ross O’Reilly on the single? 

It was great. We are good friends, so it was really nice to finally work with him. He is a very talented songwriter/producer.

Love It or Leave It, your E.P., gained a lot of great reviews. Were you humbled by the reception and love is acquired? 

I was very humbled. It is so nice when you work hard on something and then put it out to the world; hope for the best and it goes well!  

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When did music enter your life? Which artists did you admire growing up? 

I have always been surrounded by music as I grew up in a very musical household. My brother got me into Hip-Hop and R&B when I was little, so I grew up listening to a lot of classic R&B and Soul. I loved De La Soul, Salt-N-Pepa, Erykah Badu; Jill Scott and D'Angelo. 

I used to listen to my mum's old Motown records. In fact; that is one of my earliest memories. 

You have performed with some big stars and are one of the most in-demanded openers on the live circuit. Do you think your natural stage presence and experience is the reason so many venues and artists gravitate towards you? 

Thank you! I think my reputation on the live music scene has definitely helped me get the support slots. I'm so honoured to have worked with the artists I have and to have opened for such big names. 

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

My next big gig is in Hamburg in May, then a couple of small London festivals and a big gig at the 606 Club in July with my full band.

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Just how important is it getting on stage and putting your music out there? Can you describe the feeling you get being up there? 

It is extremely important. Gigging is great to build your stagecraft and performance skills, work out what songs work well live and what audiences want. Social media plays a huge role, especially as an independent artist, so you have to use all the tools you can to get your music out there.

The feeling I get on stage is why I do this. I love performing and the buzz I get when I’m on stage, and it feels like every single member of the audience is with me, is the best feeling ever.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope that the new single helps push my music to a new audience and I hope to continue pushing forward with bigger and better gigs and working on new music. I have an E.P. coming soon, too, and a soulful House track with a house producer which should be out in the summer. 

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

My favourite memory is opening for George Benson at Kenwood House. It was the biggest crowd I have ever played to. Oh…and supporting En Vogue a couple of years ago at Indigo2 was pretty special!   

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

Beyoncé - B’Day

I love Beyoncé, but this first album she did is, definitely, the best one musically and holds loads of memories for me,

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill – Lauryn Hill

Amazing album. Oddly enough; I have been told my voice sounds a bit like Lauryn Hill!  

D'Angelo - Brown Sugar

The grooves and harmonies are just incredible and it was, probably, my introduction into a Neo-Soul style that I ended up adopting in my own music. The musicianship on this album is incredible, too.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through? 

Keep on keeping on.

It's tough out there but, if you love music and believe in what you're doing, just keep working hard. Do as many gigs as you can, hone your stagecraft; write with different people, go to gigs and support other artists on the same scene as you. Learn from each other. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: IAMDDB

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

I went to an amazing AMP night at The Jazz Cafe quite recently. IAMDDB was supposed to be headlining but she didn't do it in the end. The other acts were great - Ms Banks, especially, and she is doing really well at the moment. I think she is touring with Nicki Minaj soon! 

Otherwise, on the live music scene in London, I’m always blown away by the artists I get to share the stage with on unsigned nights...too many to mention! 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ms Banks

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

I’m pretty busy, so rarely find time to chill and, being an independent artist, there is always something I could/should be doing music-wise in my downtime! But, when I do get a chance to unwind, I like relaxing at home. Weirdly, I find writing songs relaxing. If I have time on my own at home, sometimes, that's when inspiration comes!

Also; I love socialising with friends and exercising. I go to the gym a lot and recently started swimming as well - which is quite relaxing! 

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). 

Please play Getting’ in the Way by Jill Scott

Thank you! 

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INTERVIEW: Koto Kill

INTERVIEW:

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 Koto Kill

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I am kicking off this week…

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by speaking with the intriguing and arresting Gabriel Ralls of Koto Kill. He has been talking about the new single, Riot at 45, and how it differs to the debut track, Vagabonds. I was keen to understand how Ralls' role as an audio technician and video producer affects and directs his songwriting; how the project of Koto Kill came together; whether there is any more material coming up this year – he recommends some new artists worth getting our ears around.

He talks about talks about gig possibilities and what he would say to new artists emerging; the three albums that mean most to him; what the scene is like down in Somerset (where he is from) – Ralls ends the interview by selecting one of my standout tracks from 2018 (so far).

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

Aside from badly dressing for this week’s schizophrenic weather, I’m doing great, thanks!

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

I’m a producer based in London that likes to make Electro-Rock with an industrial edge: a genre I now call ‘Dystopian Disco’.

Can you talk to me about ‘Koto Kill’ and how the project came together?

Koto Kill was originally planned as a side-project to (former band) Plastique. The idea was to collaborate with many of the amazing musicians we were playing with at the time. The idea didn’t come to fruition but, when Plastique disbanded, I decided to pick it up again.

Vagabonds was my first effort...and it’s been rolling on from there.

Riot at 45 is your new track. Can you tell me what the story behind it is?

It started with (The Actions’ guitarist) Mo Stellato laying down with ideas on some demos I had been writing, which allowed me to see a new direction I hadn’t yet considered. It really snowballed from there: before I knew it I had (Dronningen vocalist and guitarist) Beatrice Bonnano rocking vocals and (former Plastique colleague and Yur Mum frontwoman) Anelise Kunz adding icing to the cake with her bass.

I have to admit I’m really out of my comfort zone with this ‘fun’ sound, but it’s a song that everyone wanted to be a part of, so it felt right to keep going keep with it and, well, here we are…

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How do you think it differs to a track like Vagabonds? Do you try to put a different identity and persona into every song?

Yes, I do. Exactly! Vagabonds is about the political and sociological polarisation of the U.K. post-Brexit vote. Riot… is about a heist taking place in a record store, where everyone is being forced to dance to records.

Pretty easy to see that, in terms of concept, the songs probably couldn’t be more different, yet they still exist in the same universe to me: they both reflect the importance of music in our lives. I’m simply giving less of a sh*t about consistency these days; life isn’t that rigid and we’re all hypocrites.

When did you get into music?

In terms of producing and writing? I was sixteen and just joined college. I had originally planned on doing a computing course, but I resented this - as that’s what everyone expected me to do. So, on my first day, I dropped the course and took up A-levels in Music Technology, Performing Arts and Media Studies, instead. I found I had a knack for these and really enjoyed the process, so I’ve been doing it ever since….

Mostly on a computer, of course.

How do you think your role as an audio technician and video producer aids you as a songwriter?

I generally don’t consider my videos during the process of songwriting - that normally happens afterwards. That being said; the video for Vagabonds was actually filmed before the song existed. I had to work in reverse: start from the video then work back to the song - both were completed in tandem. Emma (Holt, the video’s dancer) gave me some incredibly sexy and powerful movements to work with, and that definitely directed the song’s sound. It was something I’d never done before. I don’t think many others have, either.

When I’m in audio-tech mode, I depend on the sound to carry over the emotion or intention of a song - and I’m always particular about how things need to sound to achieve this.

Does it add extra depth and creativity?

Absolutely. If I just wanted to write songs, I’d get a guitar or piano out and just f*cking do it. But, that’s not my style of songwriting…and nothing to do with the fact I absolutely suck at guitar and piano.

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Originally, you are from Somerset. What kind of music were you raised on at a young age?

Somerset isn’t exactly known for its music except, perhaps, the Wurzels (you laugh, but they’re still loved there). But, it is known for Glastonbury Festival, so we were always fluctuating between having no decent music to having the world’s biggest artists in our little corner of the world. I mean; how else could I have seen Bowie on my doorstep?

Despite this, I was mostly raised on a healthy diet of The Beatles and Clannad from my mum and a whole range of Classical music from my dad.

For me, it was always about Michael Jackson though.

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

Right now, the prospect of performing Koto Kill live is - sadly - a logistical nightmare and I really need to focus on finishing the songs first…however; if there becomes a demand for a live performance, I’ll make it happen.

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Can you tell us what we could expect from a Koto Kill gig? What does the setup usually involve?

Assuming this happens and I get my way: dancers, lasers and fire. Probably Taiko drums for good measure.

I prefer to make experiences rather than just perform a regular gig but, of course, it’s not cheap - and we’re in an industry that no longer has any money. I would settle for just lasers, but I’d still need to pay the band; so let’s file all the above under ‘someday’.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I have another single ready to go and at least one other video nearly done. Right now, I’m just releasing stuff and seeing what happens. I’d like to release an album or an E.P., but I’m honestly taking things one step at a time and responding accordingly. You will hear more Koto Kill, though. You can be certain of that.

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

I once saw White Miles perform at an Eagles of Death Metal show and they blew us away. I said to Fabio and Anelise (of Plastique): “We need to be supporting White Miles”. After the show, we met them and asked if they’d be interested in doing a show with us. A couple of months later, they emailed me asking if I could arrange a London show for them, with us supporting.

We actually made it happen and it was a night I’ll never forget. It just goes to show that if you don’t ask, you don’t get.

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

I’ll give you the abridged version, as I could be here all day:

1.       Nine Inch Nails - The Fragile

Twenty-three tracks of aggression, synths; guitars and angst. An amazing dynamic between the songs, pianos and cellos and de-tuned acoustic instruments. So many layers to envelop yourself in - both emotionally and sonically. Possibly my favourite album of all time and easily one of my main influences.

2.       Marilyn Manson - Mechanical Animals

While all the other goths were gushing black fluids to Antichrist Superstar and Holy Wood, I was much more in love with Manson's industrial-glam effort. There’s something quite alluring about him when you’re an angry teenager, trying to be a rebel in the countryside - but it made me feel powerful and creative.

3.       The Prodigy - The Fat of the Land

I didn't realise it was possible to mix Dance and Rock music back in 1997, but it was, and I fell in love with it immediately. Bought it on the day of its release; skived off school so I could listen to it all day. Been listening ever since.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep writing music. Keep doing it. You gotta do it any way you can because you need to. I mean it. If you’re not prepared to keep on working on your passions, despite years of failure, then don’t bother. It’s hard work putting your heart and soul out there, but it won’t matter because it’s an incredible feeling when it pays off.

Of course, if you just want to become a celebrity singer, go on X-Factor. Or be incredibly lucky.

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 Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

First; I want to shout out to Riot’s collaborators: Yur Mum, Dronningen and The Actions. I’m also loving CHAMBERS, YONAKA; Healthy Junkies, Polly Pick Pocketz; The Pearl Harts and Emily Magpie right now.

Some of my other favourite collaborators are Courtesans and Tokyo Taboo.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Emily Magpie/PHOTO CREDIT: Alison Romanczuk photography

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

Video games, mostly. At this point, I might not surprise you by saying I’ve also worked in the games industry, so there was a time I couldn’t face playing games – but, these days, I try to make sufficient time to do so.

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 having me! So far; my most-played song of 2018 has been Hot Pink by Let’s Eat Grandma. Takes a while to get into, but the chorus is incredible.

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INTERVIEW: Wulfman Fury

INTERVIEW:

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Wulfman Fury

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MY final interview of the weekend…

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is with the keen Sheffield lads of Wulfman Fury. I have spoken with the guys before and was excited to catch up with them. This time around, they tell me about the song, Getaway, and why they are pumped about the material they’re producing right now.

They tell me why they have such a loyal fanbase and what dates they have coming up; whether the scene in Sheffield is changing and striking; what they hope to achieve before this year is done – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Great. We’ve been locked away in the studio demoing two new tracks, which we are mega-excited about.

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

We are a five-piece, low-fi Garage-Rock band from Sheffield, made up of George Moran (Lead Vocals, Guitar), Will Severs (Keys); Dave Mitchell (Drums), Joe Moran (Guitar, Vocals) and Steve Harrison (Bass, Vocals).

Getaway is your latest single. Can you reveal its story and what inspired the song?

Getaway is about those malicious and controlling people you come across every so often in life who try to lead you down a dark path.

What was it like filming the video? It looks like it was a cool experience!

Yeah, it was a lot of fun. It was filmed in The Lantern Theatre in Sheffield – it’s quite a small place, but is really visually-striking and dramatic. It definitely felt like it helped get across the vibe we were going for.

Is there going to be an album coming down the line, do you think?

One day, for sure but, at the moment, we’re focusing on writing singles. We already have, probably, two albums worth of good songs demod up but I think, more recently, we have really found our sound and we’re now producing some huge songs. The next few tracks are gonna blow peoples socks off.

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What sort of music did you all grow up on? Which musicians stick in the mind?

A mixed bag, really, which helps us a lot with writing. It’s good to be able to reference and be influenced by different genres of music when writing and recording. But, I’d say we’re most heavily influenced by lo-fi, Garage-sounding bands like The White Stripes, The Strokes - that sort of thing.

Sheffield is where you are based. Is there quite a vibrant scene there at the moment?

Yeah. It’s picked up in the past few years. There was that period of time post-Arctic Monkeys where it seemed like every Sheffield band was just a sh*t version of the Arctic Monkeys but I think we’re finally past that and there are some cool original bands getting a name for themselves.

It feels like there is more of a community feel to the scene now, too, which is cool.

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

We’ve got some massive shows coming up which we’re all buzzing about. We got booked to play Tramlines festival which, with being Sheffield lads, is obviously close to our hearts! We’ve also got a show at The Leadmill with our mates High Hazels and a run of shows with This Feeling, which always go down a storm.

Full list of upcoming dates:

12th May, London - Nambucca (This Feeling)

25th May, Sheffield - Record Junkee (This Feeling)

21st July, Sheffield - Tramlines festival

11th August, Scunthorpe – Café INDIEpendent

29th September, Sheffield – The Leadmill (Headline).

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It seems like you are incapable of doing a show that doesn’t sell out! Would you attribute that to loyal fans or your tightness on stage?

Yeah. We’re starting to get a bit of a following. We definitely try to put on a good show for people and make it a bit different. I think the word has just spread among people.

It’s cool.

How important is it for you to get on stage and get those songs out to the people?

We love it. Playing live and getting a good response is what it’s all about and it’s great to play these songs that you’ve grafted on - and to see people singing back, makes it all worthwhile.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

As we mentioned before, we’ve got these two stomping new tracks we are working on which are blowing our minds at the moment. Really feel like a step up, so we can’t wait to get them out to people later on in the year. Apart from that, we’ve got some great gigs lined up.

Just spreading the word...

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

We did a couple of dates in France, which were super-fun. The crowds over there are something else: super-responsive and don’t hold anything back!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be selective of who you work with and which gigs you choose to play. Focus on writing and don’t put yourself out there until you’re ready. There’s no rush.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Blinders/PHOTO CREDIT: Nasty Man Creations

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The Blinders, Patawawa; The Seamonsters, SHEAFS; Manuka Hive and Before Breakfast.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Before Brekfast 

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

There are some great bars and venues in Sheff. When we’re not in the studio, you can probably find us knocking about in The Washington or at the Picture House Social.

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).

Joe: Unknown Mortal Orchestra - American Guilt

Will: Nirvana – Drain You

Dave: Miles Kane – Loaded

George Moran: Richard Swift – Drakula (Hey Man!)

Steve: Michael Jackson - P.Y.T. (Pretty Young Thing)

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INTERVIEW: Lucille Furs

INTERVIEW:

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Lucille Furs

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I had a listen to Another Land…

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and had to speak with the creators of the song. Lucille Furs have been chatting about the song’s background and whether they have more tracks coming along. I learn what the scene is like where they are in Chicago; how their tour plans are set for the foreseeable future – the guys reveal whether we will see them in the U.K.

I was eager to learn how the band got together and some of the sounds that inspire them; what they do away from music; how it feels having played SXSW and getting respect in Brooklyn; which new artists they advise we check out – they tell me what it is like being signed to Treehouse Records.

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

The last week has been hectic but efficient. We have been booking shows, finishing vocals on some songs and writing new ones!

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

Lucille Furs hails from the hog-butcher of the world, A.K.A. Chicago, Illinois (U.S.A.). As a five-piece, we write psychedelic, Western-tinged Rock with '60s Pop and Baroque sensibilities.

Tell me what inspired your song, Another Land. What is the story behind it?

Another Land was co-written on Fender Bass VI with our art director and friend John Zabawa, who is a frequent collaborator of the band’s, while inside his apartment in Chicago. The song Funkytown by Lipps, Inc. was written because the band was daydreaming about living elsewhere.

L.F. strives to travel as much as possible and, I guess, we enjoy the excitement of being in a new place. Creatively, we were looking to strip back our arrangements and focus on more of the groove and rhythm section.  

Is there going to be more material coming later this year?

Yes. We have finished our second L.P. and are in the process of getting it mixed. 

You are signed to Treehouse Records. Do you get a lot of freedom as a band to create and release songs as you wish?

Definitely. Treehouse has been nothing but monumentally helpful to the band's development and discipline in the studio. We enjoy feedback and discussion when we are choosing our next single.  

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How did Lucille Furs get together? Were you all friends from way back?

Some of us met during college or uni in Chicago, while others met at local D.I.Y. house-shows around town. 

The band played SXSW and had a great reception in Brooklyn. Has it been a bit of a whirlwind last few months or so?!

It really has! Finishing a record so fast before going on tour to support the first record definitely had its obstacles. Coast to coast traveling in one week is no joke! 

Chicago is important and influential. What is it like making music in the city? Is it quite a vibrant and full scene?

We are lucky to be surrounded by so many cool bands in Chicago. Although; we probably cannot stay here forever, we do feel the most comfortable recording here since we have built many great relationships in the scene. 

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

We are going to be playing at Summer Camp Music Festival in Southern Illinois as well as Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI early this summer! We will sprinkle in some L.A. and Chicago dates, as well. 

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

We have played in London a couple times, including Moth Club in Hackney and a SofarSounds show in an office co-op. The latter was video-recorded and is on Youtube. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We hope to release our second record and to also tour the U.S. and Europe while writing L.P. three. 

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

Probably opening for Mild High Club at Lincoln Hall in Chicago. 

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If you could support any musician alive today, and choose your own rider, what would that entail?

Five fortune cookies and a six-pack…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don't break up! 

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. We have been enjoying ROOKIE, Juniore; Triptides, Post Animal and The Nude Party.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Triptides/PHOTO CREDIT: Michael Haight

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

You can find us on the tennis courts or shopping the flea markets. 

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).

The Babe Rainbow - Monky Disco

Lasso Spells - Stuck in Shape 

The Nude Party - Chevrolet Van 

Allah-Las - Fish on the Sand 

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Jack White - Ice Station Zebra 

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INTERVIEW: Lo Lo

INTERVIEW:

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Lo Lo

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YOU get a rush of personality and brightness…

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with Lo Lo. It has been a thrill speaking with her about the debut song, Yours, and its rather usual and heartbreaking story. She discusses what her next moves are and the artists who have inspired her. The Toronto-based songwriter talks about the scene there and when music came into her life; what dates she has coming up – whether the U.K. is part of her plans.

I learn which three albums are most important to her; some new artists we need to throw our weight behind; how she spends her time away from music – she ends the interview by selecting a rather cool song.

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

What’s up, Sam! I’m doing great, thanks. This week has been crazy, but good-crazy (very good!).

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

Hi guys! I’m Lo Lo and I’m a singer and a songwriter from Toronto. I just released my debut single, Yours, on Friday but I have a lot more music coming your way soon…and I can’t wait to share it with you guys (smiles).

Talk to me about Yours. Is it true it was motivated by a rather ill-timed breakup on April Fools’ Day?!

Haha, unfortunately, it is true. At the time it really sucked but now I’m thinking that I guess everything happens for a reason. After all, I would never have been able to write this song if it never happened. Last year, I had originally planned to release a different song as my first single but then, after I wrote Yours, I just knew that this was the one.

How did you react to that rather insensitive moment? Was it hard processing the emotions and rationalising things?!

Oh yeah; it was insane.

I thought he was joking (obviously) for a solid ten minutes of the breakup. I didn't even cry at first because I was laughing about it! I definitely cried a lot after though but sitting down and putting my emotions into a song really helped me feel better. After I wrote it, I knew that it had something special to it.

The song has plenty of spark and colour. It reminds me, in a way, of the girl group-made songs of the 1990s. Did you set out to create something that dealt with a hard subject but provided hope and uplift?

Thank you! Actually, no. At first, the song was a ballad. It was much slower and much sadder, too. As I slowly got over the breakup, the song developed into a whole new vibe. It used to be played on the piano, but the guitar gave it a whole new feel. All of a sudden, the song stopped feeling bad for itself and it stopped taking itself too seriously, as did I.

When we sat down to work on the production, I was chewing Double bubble and a huge bubble popped all over my face…and that’s when we had the idea to use that sound before the first drop. After we added the bubblegum and those initial guitars, the rest of the production and feel of the song came very quickly and easily.

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Is there more material coming along? What are you working on right now?

Yeah! I’ve got a bunch more songs ready to go and am hoping to release another single later in the summer, followed by an E.P. in the fall. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!

Toronto is where you are based out of. How would you describe the city’s music culture and scene?

Toronto has an awesome music scene - it’s very diverse, just like the people here, which is sick. There’s so much variety here, which is great because you can always go downtown and check out some new music.

When did music come into your life? Was there a moment you knew music was what you wanted to do?

From the time when I was old enough to walk and talk, I used to be obsessed with Shirley Temple movies. I made my mom curl my hair and put me in tap dancing lessons and singing lessons. I knew then that I wanted my life to be music but, at the time, I thought I wanted to be on Broadway. When I was thirteen, I picked up the guitar pretty quick, so my guitar teacher encouraged me to try to write a song. I always wrote a diary as a kid, so writing songs came pretty easy!

The one problem was - you never had to read anyone your diary, but you kinda have to show people your songs! I made my guitar teacher turn his chair around AND cover his eyes when I showed him my first song because I was so nervous and embarrassed about it. He ended up saying that it was actually pretty good! That’s when I knew I wanted to be an artist, and from then on, I wrote songs instead of diary entries.

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

I’m definitely going to have some gigs coming up this summer! Nothing has been officially announced yet, but I’m very excited (smiles).

Are you coming to the U.K. to see us at all?

I better be! I’ve never been to the U.K. before, but I’m dying to come! I really need to work on my British accent: it’s pretty embarrassing right now.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

2018 is already off to a great start! I hope that people can hear my music, sing their hearts out and relate to it. If I can make even one person feel better about a shit*y situation, then I think I’ve done my job! Sometimes, things really suck…but we get through it.

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

Just a few days ago, actually, someone sent me a really nice message on Insta. D.M. They told me that they came across my song on Spotify and that they could really relate - and the song made them feel better.

I think that music is all about bringing people together - and I’m so lucky that I’m able to contribute to that!

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

Taylor Swift - Fearless

Because this girl showed me that it was okay to write songs about whatever and whoever you want…I’ll be a Taylor Swift fan till the day I die.

Ummm. Every single Eminem album because he is a god?! But, I guess I’ll choose Curtain Call because Stan is one of my all-time favourite songs.

Gavin Degraw - Chariot

Because every single song on this album is the reason why I want to write songs. Gavin is a huge inspiration to me. I love the realness and rawness with all of his music. Also, I have a major crush on him. One of my (unreleased) songs may or may not be about him…cannot confirm or deny at this time.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just do you, no matter what people say. A lot of people told me ‘no’ many times. I was told that Yours wouldn’t do well because it didn’t fit the ‘popular’ mould of ‘regular’ songs on the radio. I was told that I should probably have a backup plan because I probably wouldn't ever be an artist. With all the positive response to my first song, I’m really happy I didn’t listen.

So; my advice to new artists (just like me) is to have confidence in who you are, and make music that makes you happy. Write songs that you think are cool - others will think it’s cool too (smiles).

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IN THIS PHOTO: bülow 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

You gotta check out my friend, bülow. She’s pretty new to the scene, but you’d never know it because she’s epic. I also love Billie Eilish. Not my friend, but, hopefully, my friend one day (Billie; let’s be friends).

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IN THIS PHOTO: Billie Eilish

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

I don’t get much time to chill away from making music but, when I do, I love to go on long walks with my puppy. His name is Slim; he’s a Bichon and he’s named after Eminem.

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).

WOO. Thanks so much for having me on here (smiles). Check out Tove Styrke’s version of Liability (Lorde). I’m obsessed with this version and sing it at least once a day:

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Follow Lo Lo

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INTERVIEW: Dan Sadin

INTERVIEW:

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 Dan Sadin

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BEFORE this interview…

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I knew a bit about Dan Sadin and the work he has recorded. I was keen to learn more about his solo career and how he balances that with his work in the band, FRENSHIP. The Way That It Hurts is his first solo single – a song that definitely sticks in the mind and compels further enquiry.

Sadin talks about his musical progression and changes; which artists and albums have made a big impression on him; how he spends his time away from music; whether we might see him visit the U.K. – he recommends a couple of new artists to check out.

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

Hey man! I’m good, thanks. I’m in the van on my way to Boise, Idaho from Omaha, Nebraska. This week has been packed. I released The Way That It Hurts, which I’m so happy to have living out in the world and have been playing almost every night with, and opening for, FRENSHIP.

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

Thank God for guitars and good songs – can I just leave it at that?

The Way That It Hurts is your first solo single. What is the origin of the track? What does it mean to you?

This song was about two years in the making. Over the course of writing the song, I left my old band of about eight years, broke up with my long-time girlfriend; joined up with FRENSHIP and started touring the world. It was a whirlwind of events and not a lot of time to process it all.

The Way That It Hurts is my way of understanding all of those things that happened; specifically, the struggle of ending and creating new relationships. It’s always tough to accept the pain that comes from change – but I feel strongly that it’s necessary in order to grow and move forward in my life.

Will there be an E.P. or further singles later in the year?

Absolutely. I will be releasing more music - leading up to an E.P. at the end of June.

How do songs come together for you? Do you set time aside to write - or is it best to allow for inspiration to strike?

Writing is a muscle: if I don’t exercise it, I have a hard time using it and being creative.

I am always writing down snippets of lyrics/prompts on my phone and recording quick ideas during soundcheck or in the car. When I’m home, I generally go back to these ideas and start building from there. Sometimes, I’m able to follow an idea through to the end and, other times, it sparks another musical path that I follow. I used to be hyper-critical and only allow myself to work on what I had originally set out to do...

But, I’ve found, if I just follow my creativity, I’ll end up where I need to be. I never want to be fighting myself for a song. There’s nothing authentic about that.

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Many know you from your work with FRENSHIP. Was there a reason for stepping away from the group and going out alone?

Actually, I still play with FRENSHIP. They’re like family and I have a hard time imagining a life where they aren’t involved in some capacity…and, as much as I love them, at the end of the day, I’m playing somebody else’s music.

Don’t get me wrong; it’s such a treat to play the music - it’s really good and there’s a lot I can learn from them. But, I’ve always wanted to do my own thing, use my own voice. I feel like I’ve found a good starting point and I’m working as hard as I can; making myself the priority in my own musical career.

How does your life as a solo artist differ to that of FRENSHIP? Have you noticed big changes and differences?

Since I’m still playing with FRENSHIP and we’re in the middle of a two-month-long North American tour, not too much has changed. I guess the biggest difference is that I’m pulling double duty – I am opening up the shows on this run for them as Dan Sadin as well as playing in the band. It’s been incredibly rewarding and meaningful to get in front of their audiences and start connecting with people around with the music I’m creating.

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Which artists did you grow up around? Tell me who you count as idols…

I feel like I’ve kind of grown up twice…

Once, from a kid to an adult and a second time, within the last few years, where I rekindled a creative fire I never knew had gone out. I’d count this second phase as equally, if not more, important in my current identity as a musician.

I never got into Tom Petty when I was younger but, in the last few years, he’s become my biggest musical idol. When he passed in the fall, I felt like I had lost a family member. I hate being that dramatic about it but my heart truly hurt - and it still does. Also, count me in for Bruce Springsteen, Fleetwood Mac and Patti Smith.

As a kid growing up, I was into anything that had a guitar or a guitar solo. I’m a closet early Van Halen fan (through 1984)…outside of that; my favorites would have been: Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin; Steve Miller Band, The Rolling Stones; Jeff Buckley, The Strokes; Jet, Radiohead; The Allman Brothers, Chris Whitley; Red Hot Chili Peppers, No Doubt; Green Day, AC/DC; U2, The Police; Coldplay, John Mayer…

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

I do! I am continuing to open for FRENSHIP for the rest of this tour through the end of May. I am lining up shows for the summer around the release of the E.P. - when I’m back in Los Angeles.

Might you head to the U.K. and play?

Yeah; that’d be absolutely killer…you have any connects?! Haha.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

At the end of last year, FRENSHIP was quieting down and I set a goal to start releasing music and make my own project happen this year. So far, I’ve kept to that goal and look forward to releasing more music, playing more shows; hopping on more tours, building fans and growing this project in a meaningful and lasting way.

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

Playing Outside Lands last year with FRENSHIP was super-meaningful. I grew up in San Francisco, so I got to walk from my parents’ house to the festival and play for my family and my hometown – literally, on the field where I used to play soccer as a kid.

Don’t think I’ll ever forget that one.

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

Only three?! That’s tough, but I’ll go with what I’m feeling today:

Full Moon Fever – Tom Petty

This album has so many great songs and yet was recorded in Mike Campbell’s garage. It is one of Tom Petty’s largest commercial successes but both members of his band and his entire record label doubted its success. To me, this is where Petty really started reaching his peak as a songwriter and artist – and the story of perseverance, of him believing in himself and using so little to create so much is something that I deeply connect with.

Grace – Jeff Buckley

This was the first time I had ever heard the guitar played in this way. Buckley’s playing is straight from the heart, unique in style and is equally as virtuosic as it is complementary to his vocals. Grace also pushed me to rethink what a song could be, how it could be constructed. This album carried me through high-school.

Viva la Vida or Death and All His Friends/Prospekt’s March – Coldplay

It’s just so good - and same with the E.P. that followed. I don’t think there’s anything else that sounds quite like it. The production, the songs; the feeling…they’re all there for me. Life in Technicolor II is one of my favorite songs and is still on-repeat for me.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I feel like I’m a new artist. Ha. But, if I had to talk about my dogma as a musician, I’d say don’t let anybody else shape your opinion of your own music. Nobody is going to work harder for you than you will. It’s not just about hard work: it’s about smart work and making the heart work.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Colyer

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Totally. I’ve had the pleasure of working with my close friend and musical brother, Colyer. His music is so good and I am thrilled to be able to share in it with him.

Also, I’ve been working with Celeste (Tacuhar), the keyboardist and singer in FRENSHIP, on her own music. It’s been a lot of fun and I am looking forward to finishing up that project and supporting her in her own career. Keep eyes out for her!

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

Not a huge amount of time but, when I do, I’m usually spending quality time with my girlfriend and my dog. We do a lot of road trips, camping and exploring. I honestly don’t know what I would do without either of them in my life. Their unconditional love helps ground me when I need it the most.

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

This one is for my brother, Colyer. I co-produced his song, Lost in Your Love, and it is one of my favorites

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Follow Dan Sadin

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INTERVIEW: The Raven & The Fox

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jager & Kokemor Photography 

The Raven & The Fox

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MY first interview of the weekend…

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finds me talking with Julie and Sean of The Raven & The Fox. They tell me about their work and what we can expect from their eponymous album; how Canmore (Canada) is important and how they found one another – they tell me about a treasured memory from their time in music.

I ask where The Raven & The Fox goes from here and the artists they are influenced by; whether we might see them hit the road this year; what it was like working with producer Geoff Hilhorst on their album – they recommend a new artist we should be looking out for.

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

Hi! We have had a great week. It is springtime in the mountains but the snow is still really good; so, I have been out skiing and snowboarding a bunch. Julie and I actually just got home from a morning of snowboarding some fresh powder.

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

We are The Raven & The Fox - a Folk duo from Canmore, Alberta (Canada) in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. We write love songs inspired by connections in the mountains.

Julie and Sean. How did you meet and form The Raven & The Fox? Is there a story behind the name, too?

We met at an informal jam and I was instantly smitten with Julie’s singing voice. One thing led to another and we began our musical and romantic relationship. On that first night, we met while playing music. She asked me what spirit animal I thought that she would be. I suggested 'a raven' since they are beautiful, intelligent; playful, graceful creatures.

Then, I asked her what animal she thought I would be and she said 'a fox' - which I, naturally, took as flirting.

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How important is Canmore? Is the area and its geography directly responsible for your path into music?

Canmore is a vibrant mountain community of world-class athletes, artists; musicians and nature lovers. The place seems to vibrate on a higher level. Our little happening town is surrounded by high, stunning peaks - so there is lots of inspiration to pull from for music and other arts.

Your eponymous debut album is near. What sort of songs and stories might we find throughout?

A lot of the songwriting and lyrics on the album revolve around falling in love in the mountains. They are Folk ballads with an earthy element grounding them.

Geoff Hilhorst produced your album. What was it like working alongside him? What did he bring to the table?

Geoff is a very talented musician. He is best known for his incredible organ and piano playing in the Alt-Country band The Deep Dark Woods, but he is an all-round great multi-instrumentalist. He really helped to bring our songs from simple guitar-vocal arrangements to their full sonic potential as heard on the album. He had a lot of great ideas and we owe him a huge ‘thank you’.

Which artists do you count as your main influences?

For me, I grew up listening to the (Grateful) Dead a lot. I definitely connect with the music of an older sound from the '60s and '70s including C.S.N.Y., The Band; Led Zepplin and even (Black) Sabbath. Even the newer bands I enjoy have that sound and feel like Dawes.

Right now, I can’t seem to get enough of the Middle Brother album. I think Gregory Alan Isakov is an incredible songwriter. Julie grew up listening to a lot of Grunge in the '90s, which is far from our sound - but she now enjoys a variety of musical stylings; from Roots-y Americana to Indie-Rock.

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

We have a bunch of spring shows coming up including East Coulee Spring Fest in Drumheller, Alberta; then we will see what happens after that.

Might we see you head to the U.K. at some point?

We haven’t yet taken our music outside of Canada but would love to. I have travelled all over the world for climbing mountains - but travelling for music would be something new.

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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?

For me, it would probably be Nirvana Unplugged (MTV Unplugged in New York). I bought it as a bootleg cassette in Thailand in the mid-'90s and pretty much wore it out. It combined my enjoyment of acoustically-based Folk music but with an edge.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I would love to see our music and album get into more people’s hands - and, by 'hands', I mean playlists; so, as an independent artist, we need to figure out how to optimize our exposure on streaming platforms.

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

Our most unique show was performing in Rats Nest Cave deep in Grotto Mountain. This cave is fairly technical and can only be accessed with a guide since it involves ropes. Last year; Canmore Cave Tours began offering their unEarthed Concert Series, where they guide in about twenty intrepid adventurers to the Grand Gallery - a large subterranean chamber ten storeys beneath the mountain - for an intimate acoustic concert.

It was surreal to hear Julie’s vocals and my old Martin D28 reverberating off the limestone walls to a dead-silent, entranced audience that just scrambled and squeezed their way for an hour to hear us.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

That is a hard question to answer since we are fairly new at this. I think what worked for us is staying true to our love of good music and trying to make music we want to listen to.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Kyle Pullan

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Our bass player, Kyle Pullan, is an incredible instrumental, finger-style acoustic guitar player. He blows audiences away wherever he plays with his original music and mad guitar skills.

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

We have lots of outdoor outlets here in the Canadian Rockies between skiing, snowboarding; mountain biking, rock climbing and paddleboarding. I also work as a certified climbing guide taking clients up rock faces, frozen waterfalls and mountains, which is a pretty darn fun day job.

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).

Like I said, I can’t get enough of the Middle Brother album; so I will pick Daydreaming by Middle Brother

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Follow Raven & The Fox

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