INTERVIEW: Michael Jablonka

INTERVIEW:

Michael Jablonka

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I am pleased there is a new single out from Michael Jablonka…

so I can catch up and see where he is heading. He tells me about Flump and where the song came from; what sort of music was on his bedroom floor as a child; if there are any new artists worth seeking out – Jablonka reveals a couple of gigs coming up.

I ask the musician about his idols and which three albums mean the most to him; he tells me how a retro piece of gaming provides a great way to unwind; whether there will be more material coming later in the year – he ends the interview by selecting a classic track from 1967.

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

I’m ok, thanks. Just been going to gigs and getting ideas down. Same ol’, same ol’. 

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

I’m Michael Jablonka - or you can call me ‘Jabo’. My band and I play a concoction of loud Indie-Rock music around London. 

Tell me about the inspiration behind Flump. I presume it does not come from the T.V. show or the popular marshmallow sweet?!

Hate to say it, but when my band I started playing it, it instantly reminded me of the sweet. Maybe it had something to do with the tones we were getting in that moment. In essence, though, it’s really just about letting loose: a lot of the music I’m writing at the moment has a theme of idealism in it. 

Do songs sort of start as jams and build from there? How would a typical song come to be?

In Flump’s case, yes. I played the riff to my band and we built it up from there fairly quickly. Usually, I record different variations of a demo at home and then it’s a matter of recalibrating lyrics, structure…

It seems, with every release, you get bigger and more confident. Would that be fair to say?

It’s quite hard to gauge as a writer - I tend to pluck inspiration wherever I can; try and make something of it and hope it gets received well. I’m glad you think so, though (smiles).

Will there be more material coming along? Might we see a new E.P.?

There’s loads of music I wanna get out of my system, but it’s all a matter of timing I guess. They’ll definitely be a new single out during the summer. Fingers crossed an E.P. comes out for autumn.

Take me back to your childhood and the cassettes and C.D.s on the floor. Can you picture what you were listening to? 

Bob Marley greatest hits album, Legend, was always out in the open. The Power by Snap! drove me crazy but was my brothers favourite. Run-D.M.C. vs. Jason Nevis’ It’s Like That was my jam. 

When did music come into your life? Was there an artist or album that lit the fuse?

It felt like it was always there but I remember, when I was about twelve, my family and I went to a dinner party and my friend showed me the (Red Hot) Chili Peppers album, By the Way, on his MiniDisc player.

The first time I heard Universally Speaking, I think set everything into motion. It made me feel so good and it was around that time I started messing with the guitar - and the thought of making other people happy made me feel like that was what I wanted to do.

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

This year is mainly about creating music but there are a few gigs here and there. Would be nice to branch out of London a bit more. For now:

30th June @ The Finsbury 

3rd August @ Fieldview Festival 

Others dates T.B.C. throughout autumn. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I wanna create as much as possible and develop a more distinctive sound as a songwriter. 

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

Playing the Royal Albert Hall last year with Michael Kiwanuka is, by far, my favourite memory in music...so far.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Ah man; that’s so difficult! Ok…

Nirvana - Nirvana; The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Electric Ladyland and The Avalanches - Since I Left You (a bit left-field but it always makes me happy).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t overthink things - and make music you love…

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The first few that come to mind are...

BODEGA, The Shacks and Boy Azooga.

IN THIS PHOTO: Boy Azooga

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

I think I’m in too deep with music to chill these days. I did recently buy a Nintendo Classic Mini so, if I’m fed up, I’ll play Zelda or Super Metroid and have music playing in the background. Or, I’ll just watch Gilmore Girls…

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).

The Velvet Underground & Nico - Sunday Morning

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Follow Michael Jablonka

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/jablonka01

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/michaeljablonkaofficial/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/michael_jablonka/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jablonka-music

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1IzziurNysvd1Rn66CKZMl

INTERVIEW: Anna Pancaldi

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Curious Rose Photography

Anna Pancaldi

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THE wonderful and sensational Anna Pancaldi…

has been spending time with me to reveal the story behind her latest single, What I’ve Become, and whether we will see any more material in the coming months – she talks about touring in the U.S. and what gigs she has coming up.

I ask the talented songwriter about her start in the industry and the artists who have helped spike her own interests; a few newer names she is vibing to; whether she gets any time to chill outside of her own music – Pancaldi talks about her creative progression and what drives her passions.

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

My week has been just lovely, thank you. Finishing off a three-and-a-half-week tour in Germany, which has been delightful; just love touring here.

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

I’m a singer-songwriter (you’ve never heard those words uttered before. Haha) based in London and have, most recently, been delving into the electric guitar world - which has been a wonderful exploration and inspired new melodies and music. I grew up in Cape Town for a few years when I was younger where I wrote my first song - at thirteen or fourteen - called Do You Know What It’s Like to Be Me. Rather Emo! Haha.

What I’ve Become is your latest single. Can you talk about the story behind the track?

I wrote it from the point-of-view of a person crying out to someone (figuratively speaking) who is no longer around for advice on how to cope with their departure and the loss surrounding it. It has a significant meaning for me but I feel that it can be relatable to us all in some way.

Will there be more material to follow? Are you working on anything else?

I am indeed. I am very excited to be recording my next E.P. in the summer with the brilliant Matt Ingram, ready for release in the autumn; followed by a U.K. and European tour.

You have performed in the U.S. and are an international artist. Do you hope to be back in the U.S. and play over there more?

I love playing the in States! On my first tour there, I was welcomed warmly. I also now have management over in L.A. now, too; so, spending more time their writing and performing is absolutely on the schedule.

Do you recall when music came into your life and what spurred you to write your own songs?

Music has always been a part of me and my family.

My dad is a wonderful singer and performed for a long period in his younger years; a beautiful deep, soulful voice. So; I don’t feel as if I discovered it - it’s just etched within my every part. The writing, however, has been much more of a journey for me. I only properly started writing music when I went off travelling around the world for nine months with my guitar in 2011 - and came back with a suitcase of songs and the tunnelled-vision-focus to move to London to take the next step forward.

Who do you count as musical influences? Which artists are most important when it comes to your own sound?

Definitely Jeff Buckley, Judy Garland and Nina Simone; you can hear the cry and honesty in their voices, lyrics and melodies; an undeniable outpouring of lives lived; complete authenticity with raw truths.

You have gained acclaim from radio stations and music websites. Is it encouraging receiving that sort of backing?

It’s exhilarating because, when you start out writing songs, you never really can be sure how people will react - if it will move or speak to them - so it’s a wonderful feeling to know it’s touching people. There is no greater compliment.

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

I am back out on tour in the autumn: we are just finalising dates, so I’ll be back to you about that one. But, the U.K. and Europe for sure!

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

Just to keep creating music that pushes me beyond my boundaries and (to keep) building my fanbase in the States and Europe. World domination, pretty please!

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

My first headline show in London was a sell-out and, honestly, the way that night made me feel was just electric: the love I felt, tears flowed from joy; it was an evening I will never forget. Many others...but that was the first one.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Tapestry by Carole King; Surfin’ U.S.A. by The Beach Boys and Coming Around Again by Carly Simon - all of which remind me so much of my childhood. The Beach Boys, especially, as it always takes me back to driving around the Coastal Road in Cape Town to Hout Bay where my family lived for three glorious years….

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write as much as you can before you begin releasing music: that uninterrupted time is invaluable and the most poignant time to hone your craft before bringing in the world of the music business where, then, dividing up time took me a long while to adjust to.

IN THIS PHOTO: Leon Bridges

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve really been enjoying Leon Bridges, Jordan Rakei and Ethan Gruska.

IN THIS PHOTO: Jordan Rakei

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

Not a huge amount (which is no bad thing!) as I think it’s not the kind of job you feel you can switch off from. There’s always something to do, which is wonderful - but, also learning to find balance has been crucial in staying healthy, too...

But, to unwind I love to be with family, read; hike and jog. Being in the outdoors surrounded by natural wonder and silence is a rare solace I find great comfort in.

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

How Can You Mend a Broken Heart by Al Green

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Follow Anna Pancaldi

 Official:

http://www.annapancaldi.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/annapancaldi

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/annapancaldimusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/annapancaldi/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/annapancaldi

YouTube:

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

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6om1oTl0iSZGBRs52bJEqI

INTERVIEW: Ariahindream

INTERVIEW:

Ariahindream

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IT is interesting looking at debut singles…

and what they say about an artist. Ariahindream has been telling me about hers, Forever, and how it came to life. The London-based songwriter chats about her influences and some albums that have made a big impact on her.

I was eager to know where she heads next and whether there are any live dates; what we can expect from her forthcoming E.P., inDream, and what advice she would offer musicians coming through – Ariah recommends a couple of artists we should spend more time around.

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

Hey. I’m good. My week’s been relatively chilled compared to the past few months: dinner at new restaurants, cuddles with my kitty; catch ups with the fam. It’s been really lovely. It’s so relieving to finally be releasing projects.

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

Sure. I’m a London-based singer, songwriter and producer. I sing, write and produce what I call ‘Indietronica’: Electronic music rooted in ‘alternative’ R&B with Experimental and Ambient influences. My work is often rooted in concept writing and, sometimes, takes shape in videos and photography I make - in addition to and partnered with the music.

Can you talk about your single, Forever, and what the tale behind it is?

Forever is a complicated number. As part of inDream, the upcoming E.P., it represents a single stage in a process of self-discovery that unfolds over each track. Forever is the track that deals with themes of self-exploration and analysis; introspectively questioning an isolated state of being and the ways in which that chosen outlook effects the experience of life. These questions develop and accumulate into a confession of fears - and end with a begrudging acceptance of sadness.

I know you wrote, produced and recorded the song. Did you feel it was important to put your stamp on the song?

I don’t think it’s necessarily about putting my stamp on the music…It’s just the way I work. I find writing, producing and recording my songs a necessity. While creating every aspect of my music is often gruelling and time-consuming, I know what I want and how I want it done.

Much of my writing and composition begins as improvisation - building harmony by ear, rather than by theory. In that sense, my approach to making music is kind of unconventional and not always easy to communicate to more traditionally-orientated musicians. I find maintaining a solitary approach to writing helps to keep an individual nature about the songs.

It is from the forthcoming E.P., inDream. What are the main themes you address throughout?

The inDream concept originated from explorations of the meaning of my birth name. In Italian, it means ‘flowering ash tree. This led me to read into the ash tree and subsequent mythology surrounding it. I found there were interesting tales in Celtic mythology and African folklore exploring its significance - as a tree of life, femininity and healing. In some stories, it operated as a portal to other dimensions due to the specific nature of its three-part anatomy.

This spiritual representation of the ash tree acted as the stages of development that each song on inDream represents. The opening numbers deal with roots: upbringings, influences; pains, sadness and isolation. The trunk, by way of the middle songs, deals with how these themes manifest into a physical experience. The branches, by way of the final two songs - Forever being one - deal with enlightenment, understanding but sadness still.

You hail from East London. How important is the area and its people regarding your music and creativity?

I do. East London is important to me. I can’t say the area inspires me so much; it’s changed a lot over the years. Still, it’ll always be home. I think I’m more inspired by life in London as a whole. I moved about a lot growing up so have had the pleasure of living across the North, East; South and West. In terms of my creativity, though, that often thrives alone, at home in the studio.

I know you have studied music and must have brought a lot of that knowledge into your own music.

Yes. I did choose to study popular music. I’m really glad I did. While I didn’t focus so much on the music theory side of things, learning about music from academic, psychological; philosophical and experiential standpoints has definitely influenced my approach to creating- for the better, I think.

You must have grown up around eclectic artists. Have you always grown up around music and been obsessed by it?

You know; I think growing up my musical tastes were actually pretty generic. In the best possible way, though. I do love R&B music, so listened to a lot of Whitney (Houston) and Mariah (Carey) - my mother played a lot of their music around the house. Through my teens, I got into music that was on the radio: Destiny’s Child, Alicia Keys; Aaliyah and P!nk (while she was on her R&B thing - I hear she didn’t like the music she made at that time. I hope I’m wrong. You Make Me Sick and Moulin Rouge still give me life!). It was only seven-eight years ago, while studying music, that my musical tastes completely diversified.

I started growing interest in artists I found individual; songs and voices that made me feel. Amy Winehouse, Joni Mitchel; M.I.A., Sade; Selena and St. Vincent. Each of those artists, in all their diversities, has influenced my appreciation of music and performance. For the past five years, though, my playlists have been dedicated to my holy trinity of artistry: Prince, Kate Bush and Björk.

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

Yes! I’ll be playing a set for Midi Music Company on Monday, 25th June at the New Cross Inn as part of the Mayor of London’s Sounds Like London campaign. I’m also set to perform on Saturday, 21st July for Bark Presents at The Gladstone Arms - where I’ll debut the brand new Ariahindream band line-up. Really excited for these show - with all the super-talented artists also playing on both nights. These are not events to be missed!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

For me, this year is all about getting out there: releasing my music and videos, gigging my music live; delving deeper into music licensing. Really, just sharing what I have and doing all I can to make sure people hear it. I try to be realistic in that it may take some time to garner the kind of recognition I’d ultimately like to gain. But, I believe in what I do, so I’m willing to work until I get there - and beyond!

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

Hmm…there have been loads! The most significant: the moment I heard the completed mixes of inDream. It was such a full-circle-moment. From conception to completion, inDream took three years to make. Generally speaking, that’s a pretty long time for a six-track E.P. Finally hearing my ideas finalised on recordings gave me the biggest sense of freedom and fulfilment. I’m so proud of my work here and cannot wait to share it later in the year!

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

Kate Bush - The Dreaming (1982)

It’s such an intelligent record. From the lo-fi production, to deeply political yet subtly-so songwriting; to the ever-changing nature of the tone and timbre her vocal performance, I love this album because every turn is so brilliantly unexpected. For an album with such diversity from track to track, I love how cohesively this holds together.

Björk - Homogenic (1997)

I love the combination of Classical and Urban throughout this album. The way Björk is able to make two traditionally polarised music styles flow so beautifully together was a real game-changer. Joga is just lush. The volcanic samples turned into drums sound great; especially juxtaposed against the over-romanticized string sections (and that bassss). I could gush on this album and its songs forever…

Prince - Purple Rain (1984)

This album gets me in the feels. Every single time I hear it. The movie version of The Beautiful Ones is one of my top-ten favourite songs and live performances of all time. The guitar solos and instrumental passages in Purple Rain and Computer Blue are out of this world. Darling Nikki is a secret pleasure. When Doves Cry is timeless. For me, Prince really was as complete and unique an artist as I’ve ever seen. From producing every element of his music to mastering every instrument he touched; to supporting the careers of up and coming artists…his legacy is so inspiring.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The same advice I offer myself...

While I’m not new at making music, I am new on the scene as far as releases and things go. The things that help me through that are staying true to what I do; writing songs I like and believe in; not being disheartened by the difficult parts of the process and remembering to celebrate milestones; making time to socialise outside of music - checking in with friends and family…

I definitely need to get better at that one! Taking care of the mind is also really important for creatives. Keeping thoughts clean, positive and productive is so important…

IN THIS PHOTO: Stormzy/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ll be honest with you: I’ve been so involved with my work at the moment that I haven’t looked outward in a while. I will say that I’m really loving the slightly more experimental tone music in the U.K. is taking at the moment. I love the come-up of Grime; I really enjoyed Stormzy’s album. RAYE is another artist I find interesting. From what I’ve seen of her songwriting, she is so talented.

 IN THIS PHOTO: RAYE

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

To be honest with you, I don’t currently get much time away from music. Making my work is usually completely time-consuming.  There have been times I’ve spent twelve-hour consecutive days working on thirty seconds of a track (check out the song Whosoever, when inDream comes out, to hear the outcome of that particular instance!). When I’m not working, I love to travel.

Before I dedicated my life and funds to music, I travelled a minimum of twice a year. I have a map on the wall in my bedroom with a star system that shows where I’ve been and where I’d like to go. My favourite trip so far is the two weeks I spent touring the South of France in 2016; travelling in St Tropez, Cannes and Nice. It was so refreshing. I’d love to head out on another solitary retreat again soon.

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).

Hmmm. I have two! Björk’s All Is Full of Love for lush, sensual Electronic vibes...

...On the completely opposite hand, Kate Bush’s Get Out of My House for hard-hitting, lo-fi galore. The way she stretches her voice on this one - the combat drums and the intelligent lyric-writing. By the end of the song, she’s turned into a donkey. Just genius.

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Follow Ariahindream

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ariahindream

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/ariahindream/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/ariahindream

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/OrnellaHardie

INTERVIEW: Moscow Apartment

INTERVIEW:

Moscow Apartment

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MY attention turns to Brighid and Pascale…

of Moscow Apartment as they discuss their new single, Be You, and what their next moves are; how they started making music together and some current newcomers who warrant some more time and acclaim.

The friends talk about music arriving in their lives and what the scene is like in Toronto; whether there be any gigs coming up; if they have favourite memories from their time in music; whether a U.K. stop-off is a possibility – they reveal what they do away from music.

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

Brighid: We have had a great week. It has been really hectic because we were working on a lot of end-of-year assignments and getting ready for the tour. Last weekend, we got to play the CBC Music Festival which was amazing. We get back from our tour the day before we start exams. But, we get to be on tour with such an amazing band. The Good Lovelies have been incredible to us and we are having so much fun and learning a lot on tour. 

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

We are Moscow Apartment. We have been friends since we were five and six and sang in a youth choir together but we fell out of touch and reunited almost two years ago when our parents had a dinner party with the intention that we might start doing music together. We quickly became best friends and started singing together and writing together almost immediately.

We formed Moscow Apartment in February 2017 and things have been pretty wild ever since. We started off with a very folky vibe and are increasingly more Indie-Rock.

How did Moscow Apartment get together? Were you part of other acts before getting together?

Pascale: Like Brighid said; we knew one another from choir and then lost touch. I went with my mom to see Brighid perform when she released a solo E.P. when she was twelve and then I went to Girls Rock Camp where she had been going and started taking lessons with her music coach Kritty Uranowski.

Brighid: Oh yeah - and then you started coming to the open mics I was hosting and I was in awe of your songwriting. I have been in a bunch of bands but none of them was long-lived: it is hard to find the right people. You want to have good collaboration and respect and trust. I was in another kid band called Kingdom of Birds. It was much more one person’s project - with other people really there as support, but it wasn’t necessarily clear.

I wanted to be a part of a project that was really collaborative and where we all brought our ideas and energy. This has been so special and I love working with Pascale...

Be You is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

The song is about when you get bad vibes from a stranger. We wrote it about a year ago. I think I came up with the seed of the idea but we had both had similar experiences and wrote it together. It was a super-fun process to write it and it was a true collaboration.

Your music has plenty of passion and intensity to it. Do you think there is enough real expression in music at the moment – or has it become rather safe?!

I think there are lots of really intense people out there making intense music and expressing themselves in every genre. That’s what good music is. I think if it really connects with people; it has that kind of honesty. There is a lot of canned, clichéd music too that follows a very predictable structure and uses tons of clichés, but I don’t think people end up with an emotional connection to that music.

Toronto is where you are based. What is the city like in terms of music and opportunities?

There is a really strong community here and such a thriving music scene. We are both really influenced by this city and our lives in the West End.  Large community.

Pascale: The city is so good in terms of music. There are so many good bands, especially in the young emerging scene: bands like Lula Li, BBQ Pope; the Kitsch, Rikashay; Pins & Needles (before they broke up), Goodbye Honolulu and solo artists like Georgia Harmer and Deanna Petcoff are working hard to make the scene really inclusive and are all going to go on to do amazing things. We do have a challenge that a lot of all ages venues have closed, so putting on shows for younger people has become a bigger challenge.

Can you remember when music came into your lives? Which artists inspired you to go into music?

Music has always been in my life. My parents are both Jazz musicians. My folks inspired me. The artists who have inspired me the most are Joni Mitchell and Big Thief.

Brighid: I think I have always been inspired to go into music and have been talking about being a musician since I was a toddler. My parents took me to a lot of music festivals growing up and I was exposed to lots of different kinds of music. Probably the artists who have influenced me the most are Joni Mitchell, Regina Spektor; Serena Ryder and Feist.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We are touring across Western Canada with the Good Lovelies until mid-June and then we have a bunch of shows in Toronto this summer - and we are doing our first show in New York City in July.

Do you reckon you’ll come to the U.K. anytime at all?

Pascale: We would really like to. We love all things British. 

Brighid: Someday, that would be super-cool. We dream of an international tour and stopping in the U.K would be a must.

PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Gordon Photography

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

A new album is in-the-works. We are also playing at a lot of festivals and are hoping to do a few videos. We really want to build some new audiences and get to play shows with more of the amazing musicians who have inspired us. 

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

I have been to too many amazing concerts to name just one but, certainly, seeing incredible musicians live is so memorable. Lorde, Metric; Arcade Fire and July Talk are the artists who have inspired me this year.

Pascale: Probably the Phoenix concert at Field Trip last summer. I love performers who create an atmosphere and they are so good live.

PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Gordon Photography

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

Both: Lorde, Good Lovelies (we are right now!) and Joni Mitchell…

(As a rider) Purple socks (Pascale); a room-full of puppies (Brighid).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Both: We are pretty new artists so we are still getting mentored ourselves but believe in yourself, work hard and find people you enjoy working with.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Georgia Harmer, Ben Heffernan; The Lifers and Jenny Banai are all young artists we have played with recently. The Good Lovelies and Samantha Martin are incredible and have mentored us really well!

IN THIS PHOTO: The Lifers/PHOTO CREDIT: Nicolette Hoang 

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

Brighid: Bike riding, photography. Walks in nature (Pascale). We both love T.V.; sometimes, even trashy shows. Painting my nails and skin care (Brighid); Playing with Neko, my little brother, who is not quite two (Brighid).

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).

Brighid: Funeral by Charlotte Day Wilson

Pascale: Sick Bug by Rolling Blackout Coastal Fever

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Follow Moscow Aparrtment

PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Gordon Photography 

Official:

https://www.moscowapartment.ca/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/moscowapt

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/moscowapartment/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/moscowaptband/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/user-444943915

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2IwSOO9bV4ZwvpnNk9f6lN

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1ehQQOn12aDw9Ev3ympS9w

INTERVIEW: J. Kas

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Pishi Modaressi

 J. Kas

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I have been shooting the breeze with J. Kas…

as he tells me about his new single, Vogue. The talented Rap artist talks about the scene in the U.K. and whether modern Rap here can compete; which new artists we need to throw ourselves behind – he tells me about his influences and favourite artists.

J. Kas looks forward to gigs and plans; whether there are ambitions left to fulfil this year; what advice he would give to musicians coming through; a few albums that mean the most to him – J. Kas ends the interview with a cool song!

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Hi, J Kas. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi, guys; thanks for hosting us. I truly appreciate your time and support. It’s been a blessed week. The weather has been kind to us and life is good.

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

My name is J. Kas. I’m a rapper and songwriter from the Steel City of Sheffield, U.K.

Vogue is your new single. What is it all about?

Vogue is about doing things in style and having fun with it.

It seems like the video was fun to shoot. What was the experience like?

The video was an adventure. It was filmed on location in the beautiful city of Lisbon, Portugal. It’s an amazing city. The weather is beautiful; it’s a city that exudes creativity and energy and the people are welcoming and friendly. It was the perfect backdrop to capture the Mantra-produced beat.

Might we see more material from you later in the year?

We may put out another four-five projects, if not more, before the close of the year.

Is there an artist or moment that compelled you to get into music? Did you grow up around a lot of good music?

I’ve always had an interest in music from an early age. Me and my sister would create dance routines and have singing competitions against each other just to past time. Also, growing up in a household where the music selection was wide, I would listen to likes of Whitney Houston, Bob Marley; Michael Jackson, Madonna; Sting, Jodeci, Beres Hammond; Phil Collins, Foreigner and Annie Lennox are just a few to mention (as the list is endless).

I wouldn’t say there was a specific moment: I think I was already in it.

The U.K. Rap scene is busy, but few are in the mainstream. Do you think Rap is a hard genre to integrate into the mainstream? What do you think of the genre right now?

U.K. Rap is widely popular around the world and continues to grow, so I guess it’s mainstream. New and existing artists are pushing creative boundaries and I see international artists looking for that U.K. collaboration - and this adds value to the genre.

You have received a lot of praise from various sources. Is it encouraging knowing people are reacting to your music?

Yeah. The likes of Charlie Sloth and DJ Ace of BBC Radio 1Xtra; Huw Stephens of BBC Radio 1; Tom Robinson of BBC Radio 6 Music and BBC Introducing Sheffield presenter Christian Carlisle. It’s good to know that they enjoy my music and feel that it’s good enough to play and talk about it on their respected platforms.

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

In July, we start the Dreamlife Summer Jamz tour in Porto, Portugal for twelve days. It will feature Portuguese rapper Duplo of Rockit Music and singer Carolina Ferriera - who I met during filming for my forthcoming music video, Blueberry Schwag. There is Tramlines music festival, Sheffield on 21st July and Elevate Young Minds festival in September.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jodie Blackburn

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

I’d like to collaborate with more artists, whether they are from the U.K. or abroad. Also; I want to put myself in as many places as possible so people are continuously bringing me up in conversation.

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

Headlining the Elevate Young Minds (Lisbon, 2017). That performance was different. The whole place was on fire - and the energy between myself and the crowd was crazy. It was one of those moments when you find yourself in a totally different space that is unexplainable.

PHOTO CREDIT: Pishi Modaressi

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Tupac Shakur - All Eyez on Me

Jay-Z – The Blueprint

Mary J. Blige – Share My World

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be consistent - because consistency is a major key.

IN THIS PHOTO: Cellar Door Moon Crow

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

A few Sheffield artists’ I recommend are Inna Vibe, Ruell (who features on my tracks Cali Dreaming and Snapchat); Cellar Door Moon Crow and Audio Phaze.

IN THIS PHOTO: Audio Phaze

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

I enjoy going to the gym. I go walking. I watch a lot of films and T.V. shows. To name a few, I’m currently watching Krypton which is about Superman’s grandfather. I watch Lost in Space, Star Trek: Discovery; Stranger Things, Luke Cage; Jessica Jones, Runaways; Unsolved: The Murders of Tupac and the Notorious B.I.G. I’m sure you can tell I’m a big Marvel fan…

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).

Lady Leshurr – OMW  

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Follow J. Kas

PHOTO CREDIT: Jodie Blackburn 

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JKASMUSIC

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jkasmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jkasmusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jkasmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/01dYkuDzh6stoW4Ai5z2ft?si=eRH88HFDR56xsmj7-mc3fA

YouTube:

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INTERVIEW: DESMOND

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Konrad Tosti 

DESMOND

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STEPPING into the weekend with a confident stride…

ALL OTHER PHOTOS OF DESMOND: Rasmus Kongsgaard

can only mean a chat with the fantastic Danish band, DESMOND. They have been telling me about their new single, Cardboard Palace; what we can expect from their upcoming album; how they got together – the guys answer the question regarding possible U.K. gigs.

I ask them about new acts to look out for and what they hope to achieve before the end of the year; what the scene is like in Copenhagen right now; whether they each have a favourite memory from their time in music – the band members select some cool songs to end the interview with.

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

It's been good! It’s always exciting to release new music into the world. So far, the response to Cardboard Palace has been great. We’re looking forward to releasing the whole album, which we are very proud of. (It will hit the stage on 17/8).

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

We are a Copenhagen-based band who plays a mixture of Synth, Indie and Pop-Rock. You know; it's always been difficult for us to categorize our music with a specific genre. 'Genre' is relative and is, therefore, dependent on the ears who listen. We just create the music that we love.

Cardboard Palace is your latest single. What is the story behind it?

Cardboard Palace is this story about this stockbroker-kind-of-guy who had everything in life: the family, house; car, big career etc. but he flew too close to the sun and lost everything. Still, he refuses to acknowledge this new reality and ends up constructing a reality of his own. Even though he lost it all, this rich wolf of Wall Street-kind-of-guy won’t take off his fine suit and suddenly he finds himself living in a cardboard box, calling it his ‘palace’.

We released Cardboard Palace first because we think it encapsulates a lot of our ideas on the album, especially contrasts. The track is kind of upbeat and happy - for a sad story about a guy who hit rock-bottom. All four of us know about the feeling of losing something precious on our own behalf: the story is about how you deal with it. To what extent do you suck it up and start over vs. resisting, fighting and burying yourself? It’s about not realizing that you sabotaged yourself and then you accuse your surroundings (for) the ‘injustice’. We wanted to tell that story, both lyrically and musically, in a fun and maybe kind of tragicomic way.

The song is from your upcoming album - released later this year. Can you tell me what sort of songs and ideas will feature?

Contradictions, as a concept, is good for telling stories and communicating specific moods. Contrasts are a big part of what we like to examine in the universe of DESMOND - both lyrically but, also, musically. (But, always with a sort of balance). Balance is also something it took us years to finally embrace. We have finally discovered that it's the track that dictates what we individually play and not our ego.

It's always: what is best for the song and not some drum pattern that Alexander (drums) spent hours constructing. If it doesn't suit the track, it goes into the bin. Everything we do has to feel balanced and natural. We hope that the album will reflect this.

When the lyrics for our E.P. were written, a character was suddenly created; a man who ventured out to seek his purpose. At the end of the last track of the E.P., he stood at a crossroad - to end or extend his journey. No one really knows what happened to him, but he might have slipped unto the album….

The album contains stories and moods that all four of us can relate to. We like the idea that our lyrics contain parts of all of us...or at least a story that we can share with one another. The album consists of various themes, e.g. songs about difficult relations but also songs about a space odyssey and a cool diamond thief. We like to think of our DESMOND-universe as vast and with no limits. If the story has integrity or is just plain good fun - or both, for that matter - it will be told. You will be taken on a ride with this album…and we can’t wait to unveil it.

How was it working with Carsten Heller on the record?

Carsten is this super-cool guy who did all sorts of things that we admire. The fact that he agreed to work with us was huge. We were kind of nervous in the beginning, but he turned out to be the most relaxed, hardworking guy who just loves music. He has great ideas and is always a servant of 'The Track’. Carsten has this ability to figure out exactly what we want without even telling him.

Carsten and his team have had a huge impact on the Danish music scene and have received great recognition. It’s an honour to work with these guys. We’ll never forget the first early versions of our tracks that Carsten sent us. It was unbelievable.

How did DESMOND get together? When did the magic start?

Three of us, Christian Snorgaard (Guitar), Andreas Snorgaard (Bass/Synth) and Alexander Topsøe (Drums), are childhood friends and we grew up very close to each other. We listened to groups like The Cure and The Police and used to jam to their songs. As we grew older, we turned the tempo up a nudge and devoted ourselves to music like The Killers, Bloc Party and Phoenix. All of us have gained a lot of different musical experiences throughout numerous band constellations.

Eventually, we took a couple of years off the stage to finish our individual educations but decided to restart our music two years ago back in 2016 - that was when we ran into Asbjørn Storgaard (Vocals). Asbjørn was a perfect match to the first compositions and sound in general and he quickly became a part of the group.

You are a Copenhagen band. Is there a good and growing music scene there right now?

Very much, indeed! The ‘competition’ is sharp but, actually, it's not competition per se as there is plenty of room for everyone. Good music is always appreciated: bands like Minds of 99 are doing great, great things. They are very inspiring to us as they always keep things ‘real’. They have this very defined sound but are not afraid to stray through different genres, if the track dictates it. Also, the band When Saints Go Machine; they have the same spirit.

Denmark is a small country with a lot of talent - and we have lots of music festivals and venues which provides new music to the people. The Danish people are used to going out to concerts which is important if you want to reach people with your music. There is some sort of cohesion among the Danes that music should be experienced, not streamed.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We really want to go abroad and are, therefore, planning and raising the money we need to get going. Of course, the U.K. is a top priority for us. A lot of our musical inspirations come from the U.K. and we would love to perform our show there – and, hopefully, this interview can contribute to that. Until then, we are focused on the shows we have here in Denmark and we’re planning our first tour here as well.

Our next gig so far will be 17th August, together with the album release.

Might you come to the U.K. before the end of the year?

We really want to - and we’re working on it! That would be a dream come true.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Hopefully, the album will be well-received and give us as a group the boost we want to go even further. Even now, we have new material on the way. We’re also working on some really cool ideas for music videos that we hope we’ll get to shoot in the near-future.

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

At the beginning of the Desmond journey, we played a gig at Christiania in Copenhagen which was really overwhelming as there were more than two-hundred people attending the concert. That was a really big deal for us at the time as we were still brand new back then.

But, the one memory that neither of us will forget is the feeling we got when our producer Carsten Heller sent us the first productions of our tracks. It’s a weird feeling hearing yourself like that: it made it real and we got even more motivated to reach our goals.

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

We all hold the group Phoenix in high regard. Their compositions and their shows are just marvellous and they always seem to develop themselves between their albums. We really respect that.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t sign the first and the best deal that comes your way: consult professional people like a union. Believe in your work and don’t let people tell you otherwise. Work hard: you gonna’ regret it later if you don’t….

IN THIS PHOTO: Klippenberger

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The Danish artist Klippenberger just played a fantastic show at the upcoming music festival SPOT in Aarhus, DK. That was breathtaking…you should check them out. If you’re into Black Metal, we can recommend our friends from the band, Morild. They are conquering the Danish Metal scene at the moment and are rising stars.

IN THIS PHOTO: Morild

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

Well. We chill when we’re WITH music, not away from it. But, actually, we all love football, especially the Premier League, so we can’t deny streaming a game or two during practice.

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).

Thank you; we really appreciate it!  

Christian: The Police - Bring on the Night

Alexander: M83 - Midnight City

Andreas: Phoenix - Fior Di Latte

Asbjørn: Kashmir - Bewildered in the City

_____________

Follow DESMOND

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/wearedesmond/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/wearedesmond/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/user-832314517

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/36TckHSlGMKCWBKNG4GAqj

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHx25qIV3798QkYKtOQdjbg

INTERVIEW: Daniel Liam Glyn

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Lucy Ridges Photography

 Daniel Liam Glyn

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IT has been fascinating talking with Daniel Liam Glyn…

about his album, Changing Stations, and living with synaesthesia. He tells me how music and imagery and combine; how his way of seeing the world leads to unique and highly illuminating music – whether there is a track from Changing Stations that stands out to him.

I asked Glyn about sourcing London commuters and the intricacies of the Underground on the album; how his home of Manchester is faring in terms of modern music; if there are albums that have impacted him heavily; if there is a new artist we need to look out for – the songwriter looks ahead and gives me an impression of how his future will pan out.

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

I’m great thanks! My week has been productive - it’s mostly been spent doing some preparation work for a future music project I’m hoping to start soon.

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

I’m Daniel Liam Glyn and I’m a composer from Manchester, U.K. I’m probably most known for combining my music writing with my neurological condition synaesthesia.

Your album is called Changing Stations. Can you talk about the sort of themes that inspired its creation?

There are so many themes that inspired the album at its inception.

I’d say the earliest influence was The Planets suite by Gustav Holst, which is a series of orchestral works based on each planet in our solar system, along with their corresponding astrological character. For years, I was interested with the idea of creating a collection of piano pieces based around characters within a concept, all of which to be composed in different key signatures. I read a lot of literature dating back to the 1800s regarding the different types of light and shade that different key signatures can possess and cross-referenced them with my own thoughts and opinions.

Being a lover of graphs and maps, I found that the London Underground not only had a fascinatingly complex design, but each Tube line was colour-coded and I began to be drawn to the different routes and the history behind them. Musically, I was inspired by the simplicity of Erik Satie's piano works of the late-1800s, but I also wanted to push it further into more modern times with the use of twentieth-century techniques (such as John Cage and Steve Reich).

I know each of the main lines on the London Underground is covered over the eleven tracks. Do you have a favourite line/track from the collection? 

I'd say Abode (Northern Line). I used to live in Kentish Town on the Northern Line, so that quickly became my favourite. Mainly, because it reminded me of going home to my flat after work but also (to) heading to Euston to catch the train back up to Manchester. The opening couple of minutes of the track feature the main compositional theme which I composed when I was eighteen and I've always wanted to use it within a composition.

The track was remixed by my friend Damion O'Brien (Designer Thumbs) last year and released as a standalone single along with an accompanying video shot by People Staring production company.

How difficult is it conceptualising and recording music with synaesthesia? Are there challenges that you face? Is it true you recorded Changing Stations using grapheme-colour synaesthesia? 

I'd say the main setback to using synaesthesia in the creation of composition is the not so obvious connection between what's real and what's not. Synaesthesia isn't something that is finite and the connections between the colours and what you have assigned them to is mainly involuntary; so it can make little sense to the person who has it.

With this project, I just wanted to assign the Tube line to the key signature in my mind, going off the colours of the alphabet. A = Red = Central Line; E = Pink = Hammersmith & City Line; F = Green = District Line…and so on. Another main challenge is that the listener might feel alienated because, on most occasions, the colour associated is distinctly unique to the creator.

Synaesthesia is visualising and associating numbers with colours. Does that association seep into people and colours? Do you view humans in the same way you look at numbers? 

From what I've read, there are hundreds of different forms of it and it can be either mild or severe on the synaesthetic spectrum from person to person. For me, personally, it's less about how I perceive humans and more about colours that I have assigned to numbers, words and letters. I also have spatial sequence synaesthesia, so I visualise all these things in my mind, too, almost like I'm looking at a celestial map of space.

Every month of the year is represented as a planet with a designated colour, illustrated in an uneven circle. I move from day to day coasting through the map and, when the circle is complete, it leads onto a new year and then the orbit begins again. People like me with spatial sequence usually have a long-term memory; remembering dates and random events through the year.

What did you learn when writing about London commuters and collating the impressions/sounds of the city’s rush? 

I've learnt that anything can be music! If you take a journey on the underground and close your eyes, you will begin to hear music in everything: the rhythmic beat of the tracks under your feet; the rush of the air flying through the tunnels and into the carriages through the open windows - even the swooshing and beeping of the doors opening and shutting.

It was important for me to not just rely on these recordings of sounds on the underground, but to also make sure I imitated these sounds and beats using rhythmic and melodic techniques during the composition of the music. It was fascinating hearing from different types of commuters, about their journeys; their destinations and their attitudes towards the different Tube lines.

I felt like I wasn't alone with the thought that each Tube line possessed a different type of atmosphere and feeling. In most scenarios, the commuters I spoke to agreed with my affection and disdain towards certain Tube lines and also how different journeys made me feel in regards to how I composed a particular track. For example, the District line felt lethargic; the Jubilee line looked pretty but didn't go anywhere exciting and the Central line felt mad-busy with such a fast rush as it cut through the city centre. 

You are a Manchester-born artist. How much of Manchester’s music and history do you take influence from? What sort of music did you grow up around? 

Manchester is known for its industrial and cultural growth and Changing Stations is a nod to the London Underground's history and its evolution into the modern day. It was important to me that recordings for the album took place between Manchester and London because they had both been my home and I liked the aspect of travel being involved with its creation.

We recorded sounds and noises through the use of computers and mobile phones, which pays homage to the revolution in technology on the London Underground over the years. I've always felt really proud to be a Mancunian and the city has been through some difficult times over the past twelve months, but I've been really proud of how everyone has come together and it's a testament to how strong the people are as a city….

Although there are many fantastic music acts from Manchester; I feel like most of my musical influences growing up came from the music my parents listened to. I think it’s possibly because I'm from a generation where I had so much music available at my disposal from all around the world via the Internet; that I didn't invest as much as I maybe could have into local music. The Beatles and The Beach Boys were bands that my dad liked. They both taught me about chordal structures, melodies and harmonies.

The same can be said for Motown acts that my mum was fond of - Diana Ross in particular. Kate Bush was someone who I always knew (of) when I was younger, but it wasn't until I was sixteen when I began to notice her for her incredible songwriting. Goldfrapp was a group who also grabbed my attention in my teenage years and I've stuck with them ever since.

I'd say I take influence from artists who aren't afraid to rely on their strengths, but also know when to throw tradition out the window and try new things. When I look at the back catalogues of acts like of The Beatles, Kate Bush and Goldfrapp; I notice such incredible growth and progression from their early works right up until their later albums. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I'm due to work on a new project with my long-term collaborator Katie (Tavini) and I also want to start work on my next album. I have several ideas so far but nothing set in stone, so I'm excited to see what the outcome is. I'm also trying to get Changing Stations and its remix album, Changing Stations: Derailed, in front of as many people as possible. The C.D. and vinyl are now stocked in Piccadilly Records, so I'm hoping to get it stocked in other record stores nationwide.

 

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

It's so difficult to just pick one - but I'll probably say my album launch was an incredible evening. Changing Stations was funded through a Kickstarter campaign, so the launch night was the perfect opportunity to thank all the people who pledged for it to be a success as well as inviting local members of the press to join the evening. 

I think Alison Goldfrapp writing me a letter to say she had a copy of my album was quite an astounding moment too!

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Possibly the most difficult question! These change from time to time, but (in no particular order), I'll say:

Goldfrapp - Black Cherry (2003)

Woodkid - The Golden Age (2013)

Kate Bush - Aerial (2005)

Lyrically, musically, and concept-wise, these three albums have inspired me on so many levels. I'm drawn to music that builds in motion, with layers of incredible harmonies and non-traditional structures. They've each taught me a lot about how I approach making music - not just the music itself but the concept and the imagery. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Never give up. Nothing happens overnight and sometimes, the biggest setbacks will feed you with an even bigger determination to make something work. Stay committed and take advice where you can, but be sure to trust your own decisions during the creation process. Also…be nice! Credit where credit is due: it's important to respect other musicians and producers you work with along the way. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Toya Delazy

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

One who springs to mind is Toya Delazy. She's not necessarily new but is probably unknown to a lot of people. Her latest album is called Uncommodified.

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

Making music isn't my full-time job so, when I do get time to chill and unwind, it's usually music that I aim to focus on. Though, when I am busy with making music and I feel like I'm working on a project that consumes my every minute, it's good to take a break because there is only so much creativity you can conjure up. Sometimes, taking time out to listen to genres of music that you think you wouldn't necessarily be influenced by can actually surprise you. 

I'm someone who can easily get caught up in the world of social media; so having a blackout from all my apps and putting my phone down can be a perfect way to unwind and get away from the world.

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

I'm going to go for the new Goldfrapp track, Ocean, featuring David Gahan from Depeche Mode.

___________

Follow Daniel Liam Glyn

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/danielliamglyn

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/DanielLiamGlyn

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/danielliamglyn/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/danielliamglyn

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DRlXuH2hzB0s9B7PWZNmd

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc1Cb9vtxrr1Gu2M_guwCEA

INTERVIEW: Marcus Alan Ward

INTERVIEW:

Marcus Alan Ward

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MY current interview…

is with the arresting and promising songwriter Marcus Alan Ward. He has been revealing the story behind his new single, Faster, and who he counts as idols; whether there is more material coming along this year – Ward reveals when music came into his life.

I asked him what the music scene is like in Cleveland (U.S.A.) and what gigs are approaching; whether he is coming to Britain during 2018; whether there are any goals/ambitions to tick off the list before the end of the year – Ward ends the interview by selecting a classic!

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

I’m Marcus Alan Ward; Electro-Soul musician from Cleveland, U.S.A.

Your track, Faster, is getting some love and attention. Can you remember how that song started life? What is its inspiration?

The lyrical inspiration behind Faster stems from being around/in love with a self-destructive person. It's kind of like watching a car crash: it's a terrible image but you can't really take your eyes off of it. It’s a simple metaphor that I feel like resonates across the board.

Musically, I was inspired by the idea of summertime. Faster was actually written in the dead of winter, so I wrote this track in preparation for summer 2018.

Are you writing quite a lot at the moment? Might we see more material later in the year?

I’m always writing and actually working on a few collaborations at the moment, which is a change for me because I haven’t collaborated much historically. We’ll be releasing content about once a month, starting with Faster…so lots more coming.

I can hear tones of singing legends in your voice – you have your own style and mix it all in. If one were to look at your record collection, which artists might we find in there?

Vocally, I take cues from legends like Sade, Björk; Marvin Gaye, Sly Stone; Thom Yorke and so many others. In my record rotation, currently, you’d find those and lots of other artists spanning genres Funk, Rock; R&B, Disco; Electronic, Folk and beyond.

Do you remember why you got into music? Was that talent and passion always in you?

When I was younger, I tried lots of different things as any kid does. I asked for a guitar for Christmas one year and it just stuck from there. I learned Jingle Bells on it the first day I got it. Everything else I was doing (skateboarding, organized sports etc.) just kind of fell by the wayside after that.

You are based in Cleveland (U.S.A.). Is there quite an active music scene there? What sort of sounds might we hear around the city?

Here in Cleveland, we have lots of active musicians but not much as far as infrastructure goes (labels, booking agents etc.). You really have to get out and travel/tour if you want to make it out of Cleveland. I’d say, sonically, it mostly just mirrors what’s going on in the rest of the country.

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

I’m in the process of booking a tour on the back of my E.P. release in September. I haven’t announced yet but it’ll include cites New York, Atlanta; Chicago, Nashville and many others.

Are you coming to the U.K. at any point to play?

No plans for the U.K. at the moment, but I’d love to!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

At this point, we’re planning for 2019 - but the rest of my 2018 will see the release of my E.P., Beast, and more touring.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Tough to say, but off the top of my head:

Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On

The Mars Volta – De-Loused in the Comatorium

TV on the Radio – Return to Cookie Mountain

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).

Sly & the Family Stone – If You Want Me to Stay

This is the first thing that popped into my head as it’s my preshow warm-up tune.

__________

Follow Marcus Alan Ward

Official:

https://marcusalanward.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/marcusalanward/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MarcusAlanWard

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/marcusalanward/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/marcusalanward

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7vaVHucaokI1K9NDZUqcB2

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/marcusalanward

INTERVIEW: Luca Fogale

INTERVIEW:

Luca Fogale

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IT has been interesting discovering…

more about Luca Fogale and what makes him tick. The Canadian songwriter has been telling me about his latest track, What I Came Here For, and what it is all about. He talks about the music scene in British Columbia and whether any tour dates are confirmed – including a trip to the U.K.

Fogale explains his favourite albums and musical tastes; what advice he would give to new artists; if there is a musician out there we need to keep our eyes open for; when music came into his life – the songwriter ends the interview with an awesome song choice.

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

Everything has been great lately, thanks! I hope the same for you.

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

My name is Luca Fogale. I’m a singer-songwriter from Burnaby, British Columbia (Canada).         

What I Came Here For is your latest song. I believe it was inspired by your grandmother. Can you tell me about that?

I wrote the song after hearing a story from my grandmother about surviving an air raid in her hometown in Italy during World War II. She told me that one of her family members was killed in the first few moments of the attack and so she and the rest of her family and friends (that she was with at the time) realized that there wasn’t anything that they could do to stay safe - so they just held onto each other and hoped that they would make it through alive.

I found a parallel to my own life inside of that story; that at certain moments in time it can feel as though the only thing one can do is stay close to the people that mean the most and stay patient and positive until things get better.         

Is it a song that a lot of people react to and connect with?

It is! Playing the song at shows for the past few years, it always seems to be one that people in the audience resonate with.

I’ve spoken with people who have been through similarly traumatic experiences as my grandmother had; people who listen to it to help them fall asleep at night or wake up in the morning; people who decided to reconnect with a past partner after listening to it - and seemingly endless other reasons. It’s such a wonderful feeling to know that, if nothing else, I’ve written something that makes sense to someone.

Might we see more material coming down the line? What are you working on right now?

Absolutely. I’m currently in Montreal working on my second full-length album.

You are based in British Columbia, Canada. Is there a vibrant music scene there at the moment?

I think the British Columbia music scene has been getting better and better in the past few years, especially with an emergence of house concerts and multi-use-venue shows that have been becoming more and more popular because of a push-back against the more popular massive shows that happen when international touring artists come to town. When I was starting to enter the Vancouver scene six or seven years ago, it could be difficult to get people to shows unless they had already heard of your music and there still isn’t much of a culture around venues having a built-in audience. But, I think we’re moving in the right direction!

When did music come into your life? Was there an artist or album that lit the fuse?

Music has always been in my life since I started piano lessons when I was seven, but it never really held an important space for me until I found Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell’s music and realized how much power songwriting can hold. Once that happened, music became the thing that fills most of my time and thoughts, and it has been that way ever since.

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

Yes! We’re currently working on a tour for the fall and I can’t wait to get back on the road. The next gig I’ll be playing is at an incredible small festival in B.C. called Tiny Lights (Festival).

Might we see you in the U.K. at any point?

Hopefully, very soon! Touring the U.K. and Europe has been at the top of my list for a very long time…

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’m really excited to finish the album that I’m working on right now. I’ve been feeling more connected to music than ever and think that that sentiment is carrying through into these recordings.

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

A lot of my favourite memories have come from touring Canada and getting to meet an endless amount of amazing people across this country that I love so much. If I had to pick a notable memory it would be of a conversation I had with a girl in New Brunswick who bought a guitar after hearing my album, Safety, and she had started writing songs in response to mine. It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan - Bob Dylan

Hejira - Joni Mitchell

In Rainbows - Radiohead

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Tour and tour and tour…and when you’re not on the road, write music as honestly as possible. Both of those things are essential to connecting with someone who needs the specific music that you’re able to create and perform.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Not necessarily new but very new to me! - Perfume Genius. He’s got a new record called No Shape that I can’t stop listening to.

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

Haha. Music plays a lot of different roles for me, so I’m usually just playing or writing - but one other thing that I love to do very much is to cook.

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

Right on!

Sam Weber - The Heat

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Follow Luca Fogale

PHOTO CREDIT: Nishi Shinjuku 

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/lucafogalemusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/lucafogale

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lucafogale/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/luca-fogale

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3GKdEPHUSBp3iNT4SG2Med

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-3vRjhcMf8_BoYwwbHrR2A

INTERVIEW: Dossey

INTERVIEW:

Dossey

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MOVING us gracefully and seductively…

through the middle of this week is the incredible Dossey. She has been telling me about her latest cut, Heartbeats, and what more we might expect later in the year – she tells me why the music of the 1980s is so important and influential to her.

Dossey reveals albums that mean a lot to her and how her solo work differs to that she creates with Indian & the Jones; whether she’ll come to the U.K. this year and perform; musical memories that stand out in the mind – the Austin-based songwriter recommends some local new artists to check out.

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

Hi! Thanks for having me!

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

My name is Sarah Dossey. I play Electro-Pop music in Austin under the name ‘Dossey’. I’ve played in a few different Folk/Americana/Bluegrass bands, but this is my first Pop project - and I’m having so much fun. I’ve always loved Electronic music and also am crazy about creating catchy hooks and ear-wormy songs…so Dossey has been a super-fun experiment for me!

Heartbeats is your new song. What is the story behind the track?

I co-wrote the song back in Nashville in January 2017 with a couple songwriter buddies of mine, Adam Palmer and Lainey Wright. Conceptually, we wanted to write a song about a real love - something that can withstand the test of time or trials and just feels natural and normal. It’s hard to find that!

Since then, the song has taken many forms. I began working on it in June with a producer friend in Austin, Taylor Webb. He and I worked on the song for several months - seeing several renditions, arrangements etc and finally landed on something that is this surprisingly nice (in my opinion, at least!) blend of '80s Pop and current E.D.M.

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

Yes! I’ve got another single coming out in August/September and, most likely, one or two more before the year ends!

Did you always know music was where your heart is?! I get a sense the music of the 1980s is important to you…

I think I’ve wrestled with it a lot. I grew up in a family where music was definitely important, but not exactly portrayed as a viable career option unless it was as a Classical musician. The first musical production that I know of was when I played a goat in a farm musical in first-grade - which I had always thought was my first taste of music but, according to my family, I’ve been making up songs about pretty much anything and everything for as long as they remember….

As far as the '80s is concerned; I think it’s honestly less of an obsession with the music of the decade than it is the cultural feeling (of the decade). People experimented so much with art in the '80s! It was, like, anything goes - in fashion, everything was loud and fun. Very extreme prints were always lined up next to one another. Music was so dramatic. Pop music, especially, had such fun melodies and concepts.

Austin, Texas is where you are based. What is the music scene like there at the moment?

Austin is, and has always been, a guitar town! As you might imagine, Country/Americana music will always be king here, so there’s a ton of that happening. The Rock/Psych scene is super-prevalent as well. Not much Pop going on here, admittedly, which can be a challenge but it only makes me hustle harder. The music community here is actually really tightly-knit - we all support one another at shows, we write together; we’re in each other’s music videos.

I’m actually working on several different projects with people from different bands right now…

How do you think your solo material differs to the work you do/did with Indian & the Jones?

It literally differs in every way, except in the songs. As I mentioned before, I’m a huge song nerd. I don’t naturally sit in a room and start making sounds first and add the lyrics and melody on top: I prefer to hash out every detail of the song itself before it gets to the computer (smiles). That’s definitely how Folk music has always been made.

With I&TJ, we do have several instrumentals but the other songwriter in that band, Jesse Schaefer, is also super-nerdy about writing meaningful, well-crafted songs…so we work well and hard together. I’ve loved being in both projects in tandem - it feels like I get to use both sides of my brain; I feel it stretches me and makes me more creative.

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

At the moment, I’m focusing mostly on local or Texas-based shows, but I do have some one-offs to some key American cities in my sights as well. I try to play in Austin about once every three-four weeks. I’ve got a release show for the Heartbeats music video (!) at a place called Swan Dive here in Austin on 6/30 with some really awesome artists (Jane Ellen Bryant, ALKI and Loud Bird) joining.

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

I’m actually trying to! According to Spotify, you Londoners are listening! T.B.H., most of my influences are from your part of the world (ABBA, The Knife; Massive Attack and Fickle Friends), so I can see how that can funnel into the sound. Know anybody that can help me get over there?!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

At the moment, I’m just trying to work as hard as humanly possible. I don’t want to ever say ‘no’ creatively. I’m experimenting a lot with different sounds, working with a lot of new people; trying out any and every format of my band/solo live set I can think of and just hustling in general.

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

Honestly, the most amazing memories from making music have been when I have been given the amazing opportunity to help others through it. For example, I’ve traveled to China with a local organization called Austin Sound Exchange, where we spent over a week playing shows for a ton of college students every night and working with those in music and English classes during the day. It was, and continues to be, incredibly rewarding.

The other favorite moment was when myself and my buddy Tanner Evans (from Indian and the Jones) had the chance to play music for evacuees from Hurricane Harvey in September of last year. The city of Austin invited us to walk in to a shelter and play soft music during breakfast one day and it seemed to be so peace-giving to the people there who had, quite literally, lost everything the week before.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

EASY - but I have to say four:

Rumours (Fleetwood Mac); The Immaculate Collection (Madonna); Wildflowers (Tom Petty) and Graceland (Paul Simon).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Hustle Hardest! At a certain point, who ‘makes it’ or who ‘doesn’t’ has little to do with talent, but mostly to do with some strange, secret blend of Working the Hardest and Luck.  At least, I think that’s it?! Haha.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes! I’m all about Austin bands, of course - especially ones with ladies at the forefront. Check out Shy Beast, Jane Ellen Bryant; Sweet Spirit, Go Fever; Signy, The Wild Now; FINLAY and Jaimee Harris.

All these ladies are KILLING IT right now (and based here in Austin).

IN THIS PHOTO: Jane Ellen Bryant

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

I swim! (We have a natural spring, Edwards Aquifer,  that comes up from underground and makes for some really amazing spots to swim around town (The Greenbelt). I also do Bikram Yoga almost every day, and lately, I’ve been taking some evening spins around my neighborhood on my bike. Otherwise, a delicious meal with a glass of Zinfandel can calm me down almost immediately.

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).

Oh, fun! Lately, I’ve been listening to How Will I Know by Whitney Houston on the daily.

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Follow Dossey

Official:

http://dosseymusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dosseytx

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/dosseytx

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dosseytx/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/dosseytx

INTERVIEW: Scarlet Sails

INTERVIEW:

Scarlet Sails

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THE fantastic Olya and Brian…

from Scarlet Sails have been talking about the video for their track, Hideaway, and how they met one another. I was eager to know whether the American group has plans for more material and whether Olya and Brian have any precious and special memories from their time in music.

Brian talks about life away from The Dresden Dolls (he is one half of the famous duo) and what Scarlet Sails hope to achieve before the end of the year; if there are plans to come to the U.K. at any point – Olya recommends some new artists worth watching out for.

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

Olya: Heeey! This week’s been crazy! The Hideaway video came out and we’ve been receiving an amazing response on it so far. also just spent last two days on set waking up at 4 A.M. and celebrating my eighth New York Anniversary in Brooklyn shooting our new music video for our next single, Upside Down.

Brian: I am a veritable flower of elation. This week has been an insane confluence of things in the works for many months and they all bore themselves nearly at once. We had the premiere of the new Scarlet Sails video for Hideaway; we signed with United Talent Agency booking - which gives a huge step forward touring the U.K. and Europe. The Dresden Dolls' shows at Troxy for Halloween were announced and the pre-sale sold out in fifteen minutes and we’re preparing the next Scarlet Sails video shoot. Bonanza.

The video for Hideaway is new. What was it like filming it? Was it a lot of fun?

Fun and slightly harrowing, as the original person we hired to film it bailed two days before the shoot and Olya’s very good friend and director/videographer, Karina Kandel, swept in and saved the day like a hero at the eleventh hour - with about seven of our friends who helped out with everything from production to costume design. Video shoots always, without fail, leave me feeling lucky to have the awesome people around us that we do...

Olya: Yes. Something that could have been a disaster turned into a miracle thanks to the wonderful, magical people around us. We pulled it together at the last minute and I consider myself extremely lucky to collaborate with such incredibly talented, resourceful and hard-working people like Karina and Brian - and the rest of the crew who showed up on a short notice and made it all happen.

Is there going to be more material from the band later this year?

Brian: Absolutely. Olya’s been on a writing streak over the last few months and we’ve been amassing demos here…so you can count on it plenty of new songs, especially at our live shows.

Olya: Yes. Like I mentioned earlier, we just finished shooting a video for our next single, Upside Down, which will be A LOT of fun. There are many new songs in the making and we like this new material so much that it is hard to pick which one has to come out next. It is a blessing and a curse of an independent artist: you make all of the decisions on your own. (More of a blessing, of course). No, total blessing, but a pain in the arse sometimes. Haha.

Can you reveal how Scarlet Sails got together? How did you find one another?

Brian: I had all but given up on the idea of finding someone until one night I found myself at a Black Flag tribute show on the Lower East Side at a club called Bowery Electric and, after the show, I was not just ‘shot’, but maimed by Cupid’s arrow, upon seeing Olya and talking with her. A friendship led to courtship and soon we began playing music together, working on her songs.

Since she told me it was her dream to pursue music for her life, and the amazing foundation we’d developed together, we knew that we could share our dream together and found the right person in each other - rather than feel at odds with a partner who couldn’t relate to our passion to play music.

Best fu*king thing that’s ever happened to me.

Olya: BOOM! I think Brian’s answer sums it up perfectly. Haha. I feel the same way. ALL THE WAY…

Brian. You are half of The Dresden Dolls. Was it easy transitioning to life in a band like Scarlet Sails?

It was absolutely second nature by this point. There are so many parallels in terms of the passion, commitment; the focus and the creative process involved, especially when one feels a stake in a band’s mission as a founding member and not just a sideman to help achieve an end, that it spoke as an absolute extension of my life, rather than switching gears.

Ironically, it was Violent Femmes that I left to pursue Scarlet Sails (not The Dolls) and the Femmes were, in many ways, the same situation as a new band because they hadn’t released an album for nearly fifteen years…so there was a lot of work to do, interpersonally and logistically, when I joined them...just like a new band starting out.

The most crucial thing for me is feeling like I’m working to my capacity with other people who equally invested in creating music we love. It’s very rare, so I appreciate the fact I can share that experience with Olya, Mark and Kevin in Scarlet Sails.

Brooklyn is where you are based. What is the music scene like there? Is it the best area of New York to discover hot new artists?

We’re actually based in Manhattan and the music scene across all N.Y.C. is diverse and fragmented; always in flux with bands, venues and neighborhoods hailed as the next cool thing that people flock to. I lived in Williamsburg, BK in 2007 and have lived at this crazy, huge old rent-controlled brownstone since 2008 and I absolutely love it here as a home base - though I’ve always looked internationally when it comes to music. 

I get out to support the bands here I do love here and, otherwise, keep my sites on the big picture for making the best music we can building a connected scene with bands across continents…

Olya: You can discover a hot new artist anywhere. I don’t think it’s fair to say Brooklyn is the destination for it. There’s Lower East Side, there’s Harlem; there are some random clubs in Queens and all over five boroughs where you can hear someone or some band incredible playing. We’re lucky in New York: we just have to provide eyes and ears. Everything else is already here in abundance.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

Brian: We have a run of headline dates and festivals in the Northeast U.S. in June and July which people can find right HERE - including playing with The Posies in Boston on their thirtieth-anniversary tour, which we’re stoked about.

Might you come to the U.K. before the end of the year?

Yes! As we switched agents just recently, we’re booking a short U.K. tour in the first ten days of November to follow the Dresden Dolls shows. Updates soon. Can’t wait!

Olya: We just got a confirmation from our booking agent that we will be there sometime in November! I love British music and British culture and it’s gonna be my first time in the U.K., so I’m extremely excited for this run.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Brian: Worrying less about controlling the outcome of things and having more trust in everything working out and presenting situations I couldn’t have imagined.

Olya: I hope for us to continue doing what we love and to get to travel more playing shows across the globe.

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

Brian: SO MANY! The camaraderie and friendships that stemmed from the 2007 tour with Cyndi Lauper; the surrealistic experience of recording with Nine Inch Nails on a junk-pile drum-kit I made; stumbling around the majestic setting in the rainforest at the Fuji Rock Festival in Japan.

This might seem a silly one, but one of the best things I ever heard was driving back from New Hampshire after Scarlet Sails first gig there and Olya had her feet up on the dash of the van. Judas Priest cranked on the stereo, munching snacks, and she says with a smile: “This is the life…”. I get emotional thinking of it…

Olya: My new fave is this video shoot we finished yesterday - the time we recorded our new single for Upside Down. Almost every new music memory is my favorite. Haha. I loved touring with Nina Diaz and covering Under Pressure with her...

Loved singing Delilah with Dresden Dolls. Love every show we get to play with Scarlet Sails; headlining Gramercy Theatre was amazing at the end of 2017. Really looking forward to playing with The Posies in Boston and headlining the Not Your Mother’s Music Festival with Drake Bell.

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

Brian: Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, with an endless supply of noise-makers and Silly String on the rider, for contrast.

Olya: The Killers put one of my fav live shows so they would be great to tour with. Nick Cave is great, too. For the rider, I just need plenty of water, cucumber; strawberries and a massage therapist.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Brian: Don’t spread yourself too thin: pick something you’re passionate about and commit to it and give it all you’ve got; never do it half-assed. Ask around for help and use your resources creatively for everything else. Get people involved around you that care.

Olya: Believe in yourself. Don’t let anyone put doubts in your head. You pick the road, you stick to it. It’s your life and nobody can’t take it away from you…

IN THIS PHOTO: Vista Kicks/PHOTO CREDIT: Anna Maria Lopez

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Olya: I like Woodhead (New York band, really good friends), Vista Kicks (based in L.A.); Kelli Schaefer (Portland, OR), Uni (New York); Starbenders (Atlanta), Fiona Silver (New York) and Luke Buck (New York).

IN THIS IMAGE: Kelli Schaefer

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

Brian: I have pet dogs. I do some gardening, or go to the beach and get in the ocean (or a combination of one and three...).

Olya: Walking, biking; reading, seeing friends; watching movies and traveling for fun.

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

Brian: Here’s a song more people should sing to relieve stress: 

Fuck 'Em - Shell Silverstein

Olya: Something that was stuck in my head while I was answering the question for this interview: Childish Gambino - Redbone

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Follow Scarlet Sails

Official:

http://scarletsailsband.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/scarletsailsband/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/_scarletsails

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/ScarletSailsBand/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/scarlet-sails-band

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo79HgXPheODvdEj-kmfO1Q

INTERVIEW: Individual Recordings

INTERVIEW:

Individual Recordings

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THERE is that blend of enigma and raw honesty…

when listening to the music of Individual Recordings. I have been talking to Paul, the man behind the music, and how the concept got started; how he came to work alongside Bethany Compson-Bradford and whether there is a chance he will take his work on the road.

I learn how all the fascinating sounds come together and what we can expect from the forthcoming album; when music arrived in Pau’s life and what advice he would give to fresh artists coming through – the talented musician recommends a new act worth some time and affection.

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

Fine. Thank you for asking. I'd say that the week's been an average week…

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

I promote my own music under the banner ‘Individual Recordings’.

I have chosen to describe the music as a kind of dramatic, contemporary orchestral Electronica...that's fairly downtempo.

What is ‘Individual Recordings’ and how did the concept come together?

To be honest, Individual Recordings was born out of dissatisfaction with the commonplace plugging of a particular type of music that appeared happily de-differentiated from the standard - and was certainly not creatively divergent from it.

I thought that I needed to have a go at creating some sort of sound that didn't conform to ‘production house rules’ and that was not particularly concerned with popular expectations regarding song construction, whilst not completely divorcing any work from the mainstream.

Perhaps, a little strangely, I was inspired by the curiosity that is The Langley Schools Music Project and some rather bare and naive recordings made back in the mid-1970s by a Canadian music teacher and an orchestra of students from various elementary schools of the Langley School District in British Columbia. The recordings were very lo-fi but easily found an audience by offering arrangements of a bold selection of classic songs that were interestingly re-contextualised by the simplicity and honesty to be found in the orchestra's recorded performance.

People found that they could relate to the work; an expression of emotion communicated through music that had an unrefined nature and that revealed essentially flawed mechanics. It was music divested of any pretence to be anything other than a sonic capture of the moment; honest and real.

Yep…that's what I wanted to create.

There is a cinematic aspect to the work. How do those sounds come together and form?

Sound can be manipulated in any way these days.

I start with a theme or motif and, then, experimenting with instrumentation, work it in ‘off-centre’ directions  hoping that the result will provide some sort of emotional impact. Generally, I find I end up with some sort of an orchestral core bathed in a constructed ambience...or something like that, anyway.

How did you come to meet Bethany Compson-Bradford? Did her talent and voice add something special to your work, would you say?

Simply, Bethany kindly responded to a ‘shout-out’ for a singer.

She had London West-End stage experience which I thought impressive, and she immediately demonstrated a capacity to alter her vocal style/intensity in precise keeping with my intentions for a song. If the songs that have been recorded meet with a positive response, then it is without doubt largely due to Bethany's vocals: interesting, emotional, beguiling.

I believe an album is out later in the year. What sort of themes and ideas can we expect to find?

Well. It's probably fair enough to say that it will not be hailed as a jolly sing-along experience. They'll be ghost motifs of fragility, underscores expressing unspoken emotion and a tidal rush of orchestral sound. Ultimately, of course, the songs featuring on the album will be whatever people find them to be. I can only hope that a listener finds them engaging, different and deserving of re-play.

When did music come into your life? Were you always drawn more to sounds and composition than conventional choruses?

Probably began to pay attention to music in the mid-teens…

My taste is music has changed over the years. Once, I was easily seduced by guitar-dominant works and found immediate appeal in hook-laden verse/chorus/verse etc. compositions. Whilst I do still enjoy moments of higher-octane/higher-energy music and songs/styles that venture into the anthemic, I have found that, nowadays, I am given to spending more time investigating the way music can convey feeling through generously-detailed and texturally ornate waveforms. I find that, often, the only way to introduce those elements of detail and texture is to visit an idea in an orchestral setting.

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

No touring is planned. I'll wait for the demand! (I won't be holding my breath).

How does an Individual Records performance sound? Is it easy translating the songs onto the stage?

The Individual Recordings sound was designed without any consideration being made of later live performance. Recordings were split between venues/studios and the resulting recording stems combined at leisure elsewhere.

Actually, on reflection, this might turn out to be a good thing as it would mean that, ‘on stage’; with parts re-worked with new instruments, the songs would take on a fresh character.

That sounds exciting!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Some recognition that the music exists…

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

Politely telling someone playing the euphonium to be quiet.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Almost impossible to answer: I could give the title of three albums but, if you asked again in another year or two, I wouldn't give the same answer.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Always think about what you could change regarding what you’re producing to better bring originality and individuality to the mix.

IMAGE CREDIT: Half Formed Things

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I would like to recommend Half Formed Things from Edinburgh.

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

If ‘chilling’ is getting excited by sports events, then, yes, by doing that. Unwinding is probably best achieved by spending time doing stuff in the garden (obviously, not when it's raining)

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

I'd like to just mix it up a bit and select a piece of music from Gattaca: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (1997). Is that okay? The track is The Departure.

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Follow Individual Recordings

Official:

http://www.individualrecordings.co.uk/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/kindofcinematic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/individualrecordings

INTERVIEW: Jordan Mackampa

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Sequoia Ziff 

Jordan Mackampa

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HIS latest single is an awesome and powerful…

burst of Soul that gets into the mind and lifts the spirit. Jordan Mackampa talks to me about One in the Same and the story behind it. The talented musician discusses his Congolese roots and when music came into his life; whether more material will come along the line – he recommends new musicians we should follow.

Mackampa talks about growing up in the Midlands and what sort of gigs are coming up; what it was like working with Benjamin Francis Leftwich; how he spends his time away from music; three albums that mean a lot to him – he offers some good advice for songwriters coming through.

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

Hello. I’m well, thanks. Feeling a little bit under weather, but I’ll bounce back soon.

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

I would describe myself as a singer-songwriter who blends just the right amount of modern Folk and classic Soul and Blues.

One in the Same is your new track. Can you talk about its origins and backstory?

The song originally started with me messing around with some open tunings on my guitar, until I landed in a key that felt comfortable in. Skip past the hours of meaningless fondling and I had some sections down which could be interpreted as press, choruses; breakdowns etc., but I knew I definitely had the first verse cemented, which I then sent over in a voice note via email to Matt and Ben before our session the following day.

The song is basically about modern day communication and how we take for granted how easily we can text, FaceTime or even call a friend/loved one, which I believe has affected the way we talk to one another - there is a lot to be misunderstood through a phone call and there’s even more than can be misinterpreted through a lack of human interaction. We are all connected electronically, yet distant from each other somewhat physically and emotionally.

What was it like working alongside Benjamin Francis Leftwich and Matt Ingram writing this song?

I’ve known and worked with Matt quite extensively over the past three or so years: he played the drums on my first E.P., Physics; co-wrote Teardrops in a Hurricane on my second E.P., Tales from the Broken, which he also produced and we’ve just maintained a great working relationship and friendship since. Getting to write with B.F.L. was a dream. I’ve been a fan of his work since the early days and first met him at Barn on the Farm last year. We did that typical music industry of saying ‘let’s work together, let’s write something etc. etc.’ - but this time actually followed through with it and produced something I’m incredibly proud of.

Then, all we needed was Cam Blackwood to add his magic touches to it and we were good to go…

Is there more material coming later in the year?

Absolutely. The music I’ll be releasing now reflects the direction I want to take within my career: not just writing music for the sake of it, but giving the music some substance...about daily things we all good through, whether they are good or bad.

Give me a sense of the artists you grew up listening to. When did music come into your life?

Music has been in my life from a very young age: my mum has always said I was singing before I could talk! She told me a story once of how we were at my uncle’s house back in D.R. Congo. He used to hand-make guitars from the trees in his back garden and sold them to customers in his stall. One evening, we were sat in his living room. I must have been very young at the time, nine, maybe ten months, but I crawled over to one of his guitars and plucked a string with such a force and just turned around to my mum with a look of amazement on my face like I’d discovered the secret to life. My uncle said to her: “He’s found his calling” - and I think it was at that point my mum knew I was going to end up doing something with music sooner or later.

Because of my Congolese roots, I grew up listening to traditional music from my country a lot. It was constantly played in the house, especially on Sundays when we had to clean. As I got older, particularly during my teen years, I developed my own taste of what I liked, which is how I stumbled across Folk music and these extraordinary writers like Bob Dylan, Neil Young; Joni Mitchell - writers of whom didn’t need much more than a guitar and an audience to tell a story that could capture hearts and minds within a few words.

How important was your mother and her love of Soul to your roots and development?

My mother’s taste in music definitely influenced my sense of rhythm and melody. If it wasn’t for her and her love of divas and groove - from artists such as Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan; Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson; Bill Withers, James Brown; Diana Ross, Aretha Franklin and so forth - I wouldn’t understand how pitch, tone and key all play such a part in music - in addition to how they play on the listener’s emotions during a song.

You were raised in the Midlands but have Congolese roots. Do you feel you mix these disparate and diverse worlds into your sound?

I guess you could say so. It is not something I pay that much attention to if I’m honest: I just try to write what I know, taking influences from sounds that I like that I feel could work for that particular song…

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

I’ve just announced my biggest headline tour to date across the U.K. and E.U. in October as well as a few summer festivals.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I hope to have recorded my first album.

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

One that sticks to mind was my first solo show in Brussels, Belgium. It was one of those shows where I expected no one to come and we ended up filling the room - with lots more people eager to come and waiting on the stairs! I ended up playing for an extra hour than I was supposed to because I was having so much fun - and staying behind just chatting with people saying ‘thank you’.

It made me realise how far music can reach someone and the effect it has on them too.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

This Is always the hardest question to answer! I can never decide because I don’t have three favourite albums: I have about three-hundred!

An album that definitely means a lot to me, however, would be Every Kingdom by Ben Howard. It really influenced the finger style of picking/plucking that I do now, for sure. Mylo Xyloto by Coldplay because it was the first grown-up show that I had saved up for to see and it has one of my favourite songs on the planet on that album, Us Against the World.

I think my final choice is A Different Kind of Fix by Bombay Bicycle Club. Every song, every word; back to front, I know it all. Listen to it and tell me I’m lying…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Trust your gut. Always. It’s never going to steer you wrong, ever. No matter what your label says, managers say; friends say, fans say…trust your gut. You’re the only person in control of your career and your music.

Trust your gut. Always.

IN THIS PHOTO: Fenne Lily/PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Fenne Lily, George Ogilvie; Million Miles, Mali Hayes; Oliver Pinder, Luna Delirious and Angelboy + the Halos.

IN THIS PHOTO: Million Miles

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

Face masks, cooking good soul food and listening to lo-fi Jazz music. Keeping it simple is the key to chilling out.

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).

Bill Withers - Use Me Up

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Follow Jordan Mackampa

Official:

https://www.jordanmackampa.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/JordanMackampaMusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jordanmackampa/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JordanMackampa

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jordanmackampa

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/24WPEGLYPvEsmk4GSDFyST

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCl6F7LtY4TfByEISmpr25pw

INTERVIEW: JOYYA

INTERVIEW:

JOYYA

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THE awesome duo of JOYYA…

moved from Newcastle to London four years ago and, since then, have been making a name for themselves! In a revealing and open interview; Ben Dancer and David Pullen talk about their musical progression and how their new track, Horizon, came to be.

The guys reveal whether more material is coming up and when they started making music together; what life is like in London right now; if there are upcoming artists we need to seek out; what tour dates are around the corner; what sort of music they are influenced by – the boys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Hello! We are great, thanks. Although, we are both still recovering from running the Hackney Half Marathon on Sunday, 20th May, which we did to help raise awareness and support for the charity CALM (Campaign Against Living Miserably).

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

We are called JOYYA, a duo consisting of Ben Dancer and David Pullen, and we love writing Electronic-Pop music that genuinely gives us a buzz to play and, hopefully, a buzz to anyone who listens to it.

 

Horizon is your new track. It seems to be a double-edged love letter. What sparked the moment the song was written?

In 2014, we both moved down to London from Newcastle and our latest song, Horizon, encapsulates the rollercoaster of emotions we both felt during the move. It was a huge jump for us both and the song definitely draws upon our anxiety, excitement and determination.

What is it like being in the city right now? As musicians; are there more advantages than disadvantages?

On balance, London is amazing - there really isn’t a city quite like it. It’s only when you get here that you really start to appreciate the sheer size of it and how much amazing music is being made here.

How did JOYYA get together? When did you start making music with each other?

We’ve actually been making music together for over ten years now, although this has been through a couple of different projects. When we both moved to London, we started meeting up just to keep playing more than anything and very quickly found ourselves writing new songs that felt incredibly exciting to play.

Therefore, we quickly decided to get our new material recorded and out there…

Is there more material coming from you guys in the coming months?

There certainly is! We’ve written so many new songs now, about half of which we’ve recorded and started mixing. We’re just keen to get them finished and out there for people to hear!

Who would you each count as influences? Did you grow up around a lot of different sounds?

As it happens, both of our dads play in Classic-Rock and Punk cover bands so, from a very early age, we’ve both been immersed in the classic sounds of The Clash through to The Who. I wouldn’t say these influences come through in our music too much, but it does mean we both seem to like very similar musical styles and sounds - which work really well when we write new music together.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

Our very next live show will be in Newcastle on 9th June at Evolution Emerging and we are very excited to be opening up the BBC Introducing stage. After that, we have a couple of London shows pencilled in but we are waiting to get these all confirmed up before we announce them, so keep an eye out as we have much more to follow.

If we come and see you play; what can we expect in terms of the material played and set-up?

Between the two of us, we try and play every instrument and every part between us. It makes for a more challenging performance but keeps it as live and as energetic as possible. We also always try and squeeze in as many songs as possible whenever we play, as we love playing our songs and trying to cut songs out of a set always feels like trying to pick your favourite child...if we had children that is...

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We have lots of exciting things planned for the rest of 2018 but, overall, the main aim is to keep building our momentum through releasing more songs and playing as many more shows as possible.

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

This is a tough one...

Ben’s is when we had the opportunity to perform on the BBC Introducing stage at Glastonbury in 2011 and our first real taste of what it could be like if we kept working hard towards our dream.

David’s is when we recently supported Fickle Friends at the Riverside in Newcastle, as we are big fans of their music and have supported and watched them over the last couple of years - so it was amazing to get to play with them.

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

I think this would have to be HONNE - one of our favourite bands at the moment. The rider wouldn’t be too exotic...just some beers and maybe some scran, too, would be a bonus. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The main thing would be to believe in yourself and believe in the music you’re making. If you love what you’re doing, the chances are somebody else out there will love it too. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Cape Cub

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We could give you a list longer than our arm...

But, if we had to pick one, we’d definitely say Cape Cub. Such beautiful music - and also incredibly nice lads, too.

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

For both of us, music is our main way of unwinding from our everyday lives as we both also have pretty intense London jobs during the week. However, when we take a break from music as well, this typically involves going away with our girlfriends to somewhere quiet, away from the city.

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

Ben: HONNE – Sometimes

David: Reno & Rome - Our Love

Thank you so much for the interview!

Speak soon,

David & Ben

(JOYYA)

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Follow JOYYA

Official:

http://thisisjoyya.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thisisjoyya

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thisisjoyya/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thisisjoyya

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/thisisjoyya

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3tbNz9tZJWyHm8221xs3I5

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwNCY-7wWS_fq_W87aOanqQ

INTERVIEW: Between Giants

INTERVIEW:

Between Giants

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I am ending my interviewing weekend…

with a look at the new music of Between Giants. It is the moniker of Tyler John and I was eager to speak with the Florida-based musician about the new single, Nevemind – he explains how Between Giants came to be and what the project represents.

Between Giants explains hooking up with Kalimur and how music came into his life; whether there are tour dates coming up; if there are any things to tick off a list before the end of this year; some new artists that we need to be aware of – the songwriter ends the interview by selecting a rather nice song.

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

Yo! I am terrible - and this has been the worst week of my entire life. I wonder if anyone has actually said that on here. I’m messing. I am fantastic! Every day I am here is a good one.

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

Absolutely. My name is Tyler John and I am ‘Between Giants’. The sound behind the project utilises many different genres and instruments and brings them together into a coalescence of gritty Electro-Indie-Pop. Keeping fee good vibes with a bite that forces you to really listen…

How did ‘Between Giants’ start life? How did you come up with that name?

Inspiration for the name hit when I was downtown in my city of Orlando and saw a painting of a man lost in the forest. The project began when I felt the need to write and sing my own songs.

Nevermind is the last single from your upcoming album. Is there a story behind the song?

Absolutely. I often have difficulty articulating my emotions for fear of being vulnerable to people. It is a serious problem! Nevermind is essentially my ode to that, pushing people away because it is easier than opening myself up but still yearning to express myself. A walking contradiction, really. The chorus refrain summarizes it well: “By the way, I more than love you – nevermind”.

The band, Kalimur, feature on the track. How did you come to meet them? What was that experience like?

Kalimur was actually a band that I created with my best friend Brett. We started it up years ago and saw great success – eventually, it was time to go our own ways creatively and it was amazing to be able to collaborate with him again through a collective vision.

He adds so much to any creative setting and made the process beyond-amazing. An extreme talent in all aspects of music and an even better human being.

Talk to me about the album and what we will expect in terms of themes and stories.

Thematically, really it all boils down to love, all aspects of it, good and bad; the beauty, the pain and the madness.

How did music come into your life? Did you grow up in a musical household?

Yes! My mother is an artist and always had me involved in some sort of creative field (since I was very young). My father is a world-renowned shower singer as well - so take that for what it’s worth.

Are there any tour dates coming up?

Lining it up as we speak! Check back in a bit for sure and make sure to come out! I love meeting new people and hearing your stories.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

There is this new taco place I really want to try…as for the project; I want people to dig the album and also to go on another East Coast tour!

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

Returning to the town I went to college and high-school in on tour and playing the venue I used to go to see shows at. That was a major nostalgia trip, let me tell you. I felt so out of place playing there but, hopefully, I didn’t suck too bad.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

The Cars, Badlands and A Fever You Can’t Sweat Out.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Never stop, create genuinely and explore.

IMAGE CREDIT: @efekurnaz 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Definitely check out Kalimur (featured on the track). They just released a new single and have some amazing music. Brandyn Burnette is another artist that is killing the game. The Merks also have a unique sound.

IN THIS PHOTO: Brandyn Burnette

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

Almost none. Between full-time school, work and volunteering, almost all my free time is spent writing, producing or playing shows. Music is my escape, though, so it’s okay that the grind never really slows. As long as I am surrounded by good people, I am always at peace.

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).

Bump that new Kalimur song! (I Will Follow). Thanks for having me.

____________

Follow Between Giants

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BetweenGiantsFL/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/betweengiantsfl

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/betweengiantsofficial

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7BBAmjlRZDHAN8GOhRTQ6K?si=BzbqLo53S9CPQsqQ_stegw

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/betweengiantsofficial/

INTERVIEW: Blackjack Love

INTERVIEW:

Blackjack Love

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AZZA is the man behind 'Blackjack Love'…

and I was eager, before I talked about his new music, to learn whether there is a story behind the moniker. The songwriter tells me about his new track, Carryin’ On (Rockin’ and Rollin’), and what it was like working with Jon Astley on his amazing album, Bullets & Blues.

I discover the musicians that influence Blackjack Love and when music came into his life; what he hopes to accomplish before this year is through; his favourite memories from his time in music – he provides some pithy and useful advice for upcoming artists.

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

Yea. Alright, thanks. You? It's been ok. The weather was a bit moody but now the sun is shining, on the righteous, right?

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

I'm Azza; a songwriter/producer/guitarist from Woking.

How did the idea of ‘Blackjack Love’ come to be? What inspired the name?

The idea came from a little E.P. I'd recorded along with (playing some) open mic nights around L.A. and Joshua Tree. The name, on the other hand, came from a racehorse. Haha.

Carryin’ On (Rockin’ and Rollin’) is your new single. How did the song come together? Is there a story behind it?

Well. The whole album is loosely a concept album, set in old times; a Wild West kinda thing. So, the song is a piece of that puzzle. We'd recorded the song and I always had it planned that there would be some piano in it, leading the track. So, we called in an amazing player called Olly Wedgewood to lay several parts down and we cut it up into what it is now.

Bullets & Blues, your debut album, has Jon Astley mastering. What was it like writing and recording the record? What was it like working with Astley?

Writing the record took some time, but only because I had started to record one song, then started mixing it; then I thought that I'd write an album! So, once that was the case, the rest was written in a few months. The song was done in 2015, then I probably ummed and ahhd for a while. Haha. We recorded most of it in a pool room! Some of the reverbs are actually from the room itself! The vocals for Won't You Give It? were recorded at Studio City Sound in L.A., which was cool.

Jon Astley is one of the coolest, nicest guys I've ever met and he did a top, top job on this album.

How did you come to meet your manager – The Jam’s former drummer, Rick Buckler?

I honestly can't remember! I think someone got him to see my old band at a gig, then he put on a gig for another artist he was managing and my old band played. (Or it might have Guilfest; I'm not too sure). So, that's how he became our old manager. That band split a while ago but we remained friends, which is cool.

When did music come into your life? Were there particular artists that influenced you?

I think music has always been in my life - before I could even play an instrument! My uncle had a wide musical taste and would always have music on in his car, or would buy me C.D.s. Yeah. Noel Gallagher, Josh Homme; Jimi Hendrix, Marvin Gaye and HDH. There are loads.

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

As of yet, no tour; just starting to sort gigs out so nothing concrete yet - but when there is, all the info will be on Facebook etc.

If we came and saw you play; what would the live show consist in terms of material and feel?

Material from the album: some new, some old. Maybe, I’ll throw in a surprise cover somewhere. Straight-up Rock 'n' Roll, baby.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Decent fans, decent album sales and decent shows. Oh, and world domination, of course. Haha.

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

Playing the Indigo at The 02 and supporting Stiff Little Fingers was cool. The best, probably, was recording in Manchester once and going on the sauce with Frank Harper. Haha!

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Oasis – (What's The Story) Morning Glory?

My all-time favourite.

Marvin Gaye – What's Going On?

So cool. He's saying a message. It was his kinda growth from a sex symbol to a man with a voice/message.

Nirvana – Nevermind

It made me wanna play the guitar.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If it sounds sh*t, it probably is sh*t…so start again. Do what you wanna do and don't lose sight.

IN THIS PHOTO: Déjà Vega

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Déjà Vega, Birdsworth and Coco La Funk.

IN THIS PHOTO: Birdsworth

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

Yeah and no. I get time away from the studio, but the music never stops. I don't know how to unwin. 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).

Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler) – Marvin Gaye

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Follow Blackjack Love

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BlackJacklove/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/BJLMusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/blackjacklove

INTERVIEW: Paige Bea

INTERVIEW:

Paige Bea

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SITUATED in the suburbs of South London…

Paige Bea has been talking to me about the scene where she is and what inspired her latest single, Your Echo. The promising songwriter tells me what it was like being recognised by BBC Radio 1Xtra and where she heads in terms of gigs and material.

I ask her which albums have influenced her most and whether there are new artists we need to keep an eye out for; what advice she would give to artists coming through – Paige Bea reveals a special memory from her time in music.

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

Hey! I’m not too bad. It’s been very busy, thanks!

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

Of course. I’m Paige - Paige Bea, if we’re being formal - and I’m a singer-songwriter from the 'burbs of South London. 

Your Echo is your latest cut. Can you tell me what the tale behind the song is?

Most of my songs are an amalgamation of myriad experiences, as opposed to one specific experience. I think I had the refrain in my head for a long time after getting fed up with someone for not caring enough about our relationship - and the verses just kind of spilled out in the studio. Songs about epic love are in the past: our generation is all about people flaking or ghosting, or thinking people and emotions are disposable. 

Tell me about working in The Premises Studios and working with people like Jonjo Keefe, Teresa Origone and KINDER. How important were they regards your sound on Your Echo?

Oh, it was so great. I’d already worked with Leo (KINDER) kind of since the start of the whole Paige Bea project but I think with Jonjo’s slightly more edgy production style and Teresa’s incredible Jazz keys and synth skills, it just went to the next level. The whole thing was pretty spontaneous and felt natural.

We didn’t really go to the studio that day thinking we’d even make anything start to finish…and we managed to write the next two singles. So, yeah, it was a pretty good day. 

How do you think it builds on Pick Up Your Heart? Are you looking ahead and planning other songs?

It’s an important step for me. I love Pick Up Your Heart; it was one of the first songs I wrote and thought, ok, that’s actually pretty good which is massive for me because, like, ninety-nine percent of creatives, I am my own worst critic. But, Your Echo is closer to where I think I want to be stylistically; I think it pushes towards a more unique sound. 

You have gained support from, among other sources, BBC Radio 1Xtra. How important and encouraging is it getting that backing?

It’s hugely important because, as much as I will always sing and write music for myself no matter what, that kind of support keeps you believing that it’s not unrealistic to think you could pursue it as a full-time career one day, even though the whole thing is definitely baby steps. 

What is the vibe like in South London right now? Is it a great place to make music in?

Yeah. I mean, there’s a crazy-cool Jazz scene going on in South East London, but I’m stuck out in the 'burbs of South West. I think the mundanity of suburbia is interesting in its own right: the routine, the uniformity; the ‘community’ that’s often just façade and I think it’s important for me as an artist to not pretend I’m from a more edgy, urban place because that’s not my background. I think people respond best to art when they can sense it’s completely authentic. 

Have you always had a passion for music? Was there a moment that compelled you to write your own stuff and get into the industry?

Oh, definitely. I used to (just) sing questions at my mum instead of talking when I was a baby and, back when I lived in Camberwell when I was about four years old, I invited our entire neighbourhood to my flamenco show at our house. Luckily for my mum, no-one turned up.

But, I’ve always been very keen to perform for people, that’s for sure. I think, as soon as I graduated, I had that switch flick of being like, ok, I either write songs and pour myself into this one-hundred-and-ten percent or I go do something else.

That was about two years ago…

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

I don’t think I’ll be touring yet: I’m still very much in a creative hole just finishing up the E.P. but I want to put on my first headline show at the end of August/start of September. I’ve got a couple of fun support slots coming up. Come along!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’d like to get to a point where I can see this being a viable full-time career but it’s extremely hard to get that kind of certainty in this kind of industry. So, I think I’d like to play a sold-out headline show, release my E.P. and (just) get more of a catalogue of work on the go. I want to be at the point where I say ‘look at what I’ve done’, not just look at where I’m going to go. 

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

It’s strange. Every new opportunity or good news about my songs I get ends up superseding the last. But, really, for me, my absolute favourite part of the whole process is when I go to the studio with nothing and get into a complete state of creative flow - and just end up writing melodies and lyrics in such a focused and almost subconscious way. You get to the end of the day having created something that didn’t exist before and that other people might enjoy and relate to. That’s, hands down, the best part. 

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Oh, god; I’m going to say the wrong thing for sure, but here goes…

Joni Mitchell – Blue

For the lyricism, for teaching me that songwriting doesn’t have to follow rules; for the heartbreak and the timelessness. 

Jeff Buckley – Grace

It’s a little clichéd but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get that C.D. and literally run it into the ground when I was fourteen. I remember sitting so close to my stereo I was almost hugging it - and I’d hang off his every note. 

James Blake – Overgrown

This was the only album I had in my stereo during my second year of uni. I went through a really rough break-up and it became my catharsis. Our Love Comes Back still makes me teary every time. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you keep telling people you’re an ‘aspiring artist’ or that you’d ‘like to be an artist’, it’s never going to happen. You have to tell people you are an artist; you just haven’t refined your art or got the break you need yet. You have to be certain that you are an artist to your core and you have to work at it all the time. This industry is not for the fainthearted: it’s a war of attrition. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Bad Honey

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Oh, sooooo many. Check out Bad Honey’s new E.P. It’s soothing and infectious at the same time. Also, look at Sabiyha’s Hollow Bones E.P. – her voice could move mountains.

I’ve also just been listening to this guy called Bakar who has released a mixtape called Badkid – it’s the first music in a while that I’m really struggling to categorise. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Sabiyha

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

Not really! When I’m not in the studio or rehearsing, I’m probably at work or trying to find more work. London life is pretty unforgiving like that. I love to read, though. I’ve just finished reading Donna Tartt’s The Secret History – and I’ve just started Han Kang’s The White Book, which is really moving.

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).

Oh, wow! That’s a tough choice. I’m an incredible indecisive person. I’d make a crap D.J. Let’s go for the song I’m currently blasting out: it’s Night on Earth by Jerkcurb. His stuff is well worth checking out. 

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Follow Paige Bea

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/paigebeamusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/paigebeamusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/paigebeamusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/13OFf8e9FsAgMtdhivPhTA

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEnz1byAQai7dem7oWub14A

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/paigebeamusic

INTERVIEW: Scott Michael Cavagan

INTERVIEW:

ALL PHOTOS: Brian Nicholson 

Scott Michael Cavagan

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I have enjoyed speaking with Scott Michael Cavagan…

as he tells me about his upcoming album, 21st Century Love. I have been asking about its themes and why he decided to raise funds through a Kickstarter campaign. Cavagan chats about music in the North East of England and the albums/artists that inspire him – he reveals how music came into his life as a youngster.

Cavagan looks ahead to gigs and tells me what he hopes to achieve in 2018; if there are new artists we need to check out; if he gets time to chill outside of his busy music life – he ends the interview by selecting an awesome song.

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

Hello. It’s been a great week, thank you. The sun has been shining, so no complaints...

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

Yes. My name is Scott Cavagan. I am a singer/songwriter from the North East of England and I’ve been in various bands over the years, but I am releasing my debut solo album later this year. My music is a mixture of everything that has influenced me: everything from '80s Pop/Rock to Manic Street Preachers.

Your album, 21st Century Love, is available for pre-order. Can you describe the themes and ideas that inspired the songs?

It’s a collection of songs that I am really proud of; in many ways, it’s a diary of events that have happened over the last few years. There are a number of songs about fame - people’s obsession with it and how people define it. There are a few songs about heartache and loss but it’s an uplifting album no matter what the subject matter was. It was important to me to make a positive album and I think I achieved that.

I believe it was funded through Kickstarter. How does it feel knowing so many people got behind it and wanted to see it happen?

Yeah. I actually had finished recording the album but it took a long time; I worked with people like Baz Warne, John Waugh; Fiona Brice and Jeff Dunn which meant working around the touring schedules of The Stranglers, The 1975; Placebo and Venom Inc. To avoid further delay in putting the record out, I thought the quickest way would be to do a Kickstarter campaign to help mix it. The reaction has been absolutely brilliant I have to say. I was a little dubious about launching it via Kickstarter because you just never know how these things work, but I am really pleased I did.

The best thing about it is I’ve had a lot of nice messages of support and people say they are really looking forward to its release. It’s nice to know there is actually a demand for my music.

Do you have a favourite song from the album that seems to define it?

To be honest, it changes from day to day. I’m fond of all of the songs in different ways. At the moment, I’m really enjoying a song called Hurts, which is the first song on the album, and it’s really up-tempo. It starts off almost like E.D.M. but turns into a brass-led '80s Pop song.

How do you think you have progressed since the 2015 E.P., Neon Lights? Can you see changes coming into your music?

I would love to think my songwriting has progressed and is always progressing. The songs on that E.P. are actually on the album with a number of changes. Writing those songs gave me the confidence to start this solo project some time ago, so I felt it was important to include them on the album and that they deserved a proper release.

When did music come into your life? Do you remember the artists you grew up around?

Well. My mam and dad used to play music all the time was I was younger. I fell in love with The Beatles because my mam would play them a lot; my dad used to play things like The Stranglers and Fleetwood Mac. All of those bands have so many amazing songs - it would have been impossible not to have been influenced by them in some way.

County Durham is where you were raised. Is there an active and growing music scene there, would you say?

There have always been brilliant bands from up here and there are some bands making a lot of noise within the industry at the moment. Whether there is a growing ‘scene’ or not, I’m not really sure. I certainly don’t feel part of a scene if there is one. I’m just enjoying making music.

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

I kept my diary free this year to focus on finishing the album but I do have a gig supporting Detroit Social Club in September which should be a great night. My first-ever live gig was supporting David Burn’s (D.S.C. singer) first band and it’ll be pretty much twenty years ago to the day - so I see that night as a bit of a celebration. I’d like to think I’ll play a lot more shows later in the year.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I always wanted to release an album with my previous bands but it never happened for one reason or another, so releasing 21st Century Love will be my proudest musical moment for sure. In terms of the rest of the year, I don’t know. There is still so much I want to achieve musically: in my head, I am still that seventeen-year-old lad who longs to support his favourite band.

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

Ah...there have been loads. I’ve been lucky enough to work with some incredible musicians and play some great shows. Obviously, the solo stuff I’ve done is that extra bit special to me. I think seeing Phillip Schofield sat on a sofa with Holly Willoughby introducing a song of mine on This Morning was one of strangest, yet joyous, moments of my life. 

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

The Beatles – Help!

Just because it reminds me of being young and discovering music. It’s full of great songs; really fantastic melodies and harmonies.

Manic Street Preachers – Gold Against the Soul

This isn’t even my favourite Manic’s album, but this album is important to me because it really turned me onto the band. A fantastic album. Not held in as high regard compared to the rest of their albums but a very good Rock album.

Manic Street Preachers – Lifeblood

This is just a beautiful album. Again, it’s not an album that gets talked about much but it’s glorious. Beautiful vocals from James; brilliant melodies and soundscapes.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I’m not sure I am in any position to give anyone else advice, but I would say just try not to take everything too seriously and enjoy it.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There is a band called Sick Joy who are from the North East but based in Brighton. They have been around for some time in various forms but they really should huge. Also, I know you have spoken to her before, but RIDER is making some beautiful music at the moment. I can’t wait to hear more from her.

IN THIS PHOTO: RIDER

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

I do. Music is something I do as and when I can, but I love nothing more than spending time with my baby son and my wife.

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).

Future Islands – A Song for Our Grandfathers

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Follow Scott Michael Cavagan

Official:

https://www.musicglue.com/scott-michael-cavagan/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/scottmichaelcavagan

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cav81

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/scottcavagan/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4jZ4WHxtUGXS5fnGus4V4H

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/generationterrorist1

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/visionsofmadness

INTERVIEW: Midnight Shine

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Sean Sisk

Midnight Shine

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ADRIAN Sutherland of Midnight Shine…

has been talking with me about the band’s new album, High Road. I ask what it was like working with John-Angus MacDonald and Tim Vesely on the record and why the band decided to cover Neil Young’s classic track, Heart of Gold.

Sutherland tells me about gigs and whether the group will come to the U.K.; whether the Canadian band has any plans for the rest of the year; whether Sutherland has time to relax away from music – he recommends a new artist that is worth some time and attention.

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

I’m Adrian Sutherland; frontman of the Roots/Rock band, Midnight Shine.

 

Tell me more about High Road. What sort of themes inspired the music?

Our third album, High Road, was inspired by a number of different themes, mostly the experiences of growing up in the remote community of Attawapiskat in Canada’s North. Some of the experiences were not so good, while others were positive. But, the main theme is resilience: standing up and persevering through hardships and coming out the other end fairly unscathed.

What was it like working with John-Angus MacDonald and Tim Vesely?

It was such an honour to work with producers like John-Angus MacDonald and Tim Vesely. John-Angus was very calm down-to-earth and easy-going and was full of ideas. He’s the kind of person that I would like to learn from and aspire to be like someday. Tim was similar but approached the songs differently. He also has lots of experience producing and was able to capture the feel and magic of the songs he produced.

It was a real pleasure learning from and working with both producers.

The record brings in new musical tastes and elements. Did all these new elements come together naturally? Was it important to push your sound on?

You can say the third album, High Road, is building more on our first album, Midnight Shine, and trying to develop a more mature Roots/Rock sound versus a commercial Pop sound.

For me, it was important to create a sound and lyrical context and themes similar to what I did on the first album for a number of reasons such as wanting to inspire people, finding a place for my emotions and re-directing that energy into something more positive. Overall, it really felt like a healing journey for me. 

 

One of the standouts is a cover of Neil Young’s Heart of Gold. What was the reason for tackling that sound?

We decided to cover Heart of Gold as a sort of a last-minute decision. Neil Young was someone who inspired me many years back to write music of my own. When we were recording Heart of Gold, it didn’t really feel like we were doing anything special at the time. But, we did want to make it unique in a way that set us apart from any other version out there.

After the mixing process was done, it was clear that we had done something pretty cool with this classic song. Neil Young’s publisher gave us permission to make the changes that we did and we are pretty proud of how the final song turned out.  

What sort of artists did you grow up around and are influenced by?

Some of the artists I grew up listening to were Neil Young, Tom Petty; Creedence Clearwater Revival, Nazareth and a few others.

PHOTO CREDIT: Sean Sisk

It seems like you have some great gigs in Canada coming up. Which dates are you looking forward to most?

I would have to say the gig I am most looking forward to is Skookum Festival in Vancouver’s Stanley Park on September 8.

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

I’m sure someday we will be making the trip over the big pond to do shows. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

In 2018, we hope to make a lot of racket and win over as many people as we can out there - because we believe we are a band with an important purpose.

PHOTO CREDIT: Sean Sisk

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

One of my favourite memories in music was getting to share the stage with Tom Petty at RBC Ottawa Bluesfest in July 2017; definitely one of the biggest highlights of my music career so far. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The advice I would give to any newcomers would be to build a solid team to help you elevate your music and take it to the next level. This industry is a big machine with lots of moving parts, so any help you can get will go a long way...

IN THIS PHOTO: The Static Shift/PHOTO CREDIT: Joe Miles

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

One of the new bands that I really like are called The Static Shift. You should check them out. 

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

I do get time away from music, which is usually time spent with family at home (I have four kids and three grandkids) or out on the land. I spend as much time as I can hunting and fishing - and carrying on our Cree traditions.  

Finally, choose any song you’d like to hear, and I’ll play it here (not any of your music - I will do that).

I’d like to hear Saint Cecilia by the Foo Fighters 

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Follow Midnight Shine

Official:

http://midnightshineonline.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/midnightshineonline

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/midnightshineon

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/midnightshineonline/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7pj79EKmLJAAagoOvrgalQ

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNvvtsnwSKQvI5nNWAwEd2w

Bandcamp:

https://midnightshine.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Darren Campbell

INTERVIEW:

Darren Campbell

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AMONG the busy world of the singer-songwriter…

there are those who stand out and remain in the memory. Darren Campbell is one of those artists with the range and talent to endure and compel. He tells me about his latest track, Wherever You Are, and how it feels having it out there; how he has progressed as a musician – he tells me when music came into his life.

I ask him about gigs and influences; whether there is more material coming later this year; how it feels picking up impressive acclaim and support; if there are any new acts worth following – Campbell ends the song with an awesome song choice!

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

Hey, Sam. I am doing great, thanks. This week has been pretty hectic as I am in full swing of promoting my new single! I am also planning a trip to the States for my brother’s wedding - so that’s fun!

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

Of course. My name is Darren Campbell and I am a twenty-four-year-old singer-songwriter from Scotland. I am now based in London and spend my time playing in venues around the city to promote my music and meet like-minded musicians.

Wherever You Are is your new single. Can you tell me what its story is and what inspired you to write it? 

Wherever You Are is inspired by the need to travel and see what’s out there in the world. I have older brothers in the States, great friends living in different countries and my parents back home in Scotland. With this song, I captured the feelings I had regarding the need to get out of your comfort zone and experiencing life whilst still feeling close and connected with the ones you love, even if they may be half the world away!

I see it has picked up a lot of acclaim – including a spot on a prominent Spotify playlist! How does it make you feel knowing the song is connecting with people around the world?!

This is honestly the best feeling a musician can have. When you take into account the fact the song has gone from only me playing it in my room to being produced and put on the Internet, and now being heard by people across the world…

It’s quite an amazing feeling.

Will there be more material coming later in the year? What are you working on later this year? 

Yes. I am working on a music video this summer, so watch this space!

Dundee is your hometown. Is there quite an active scene there at the moment? Do you think the mainstream media overlooks Scotland when it comes to musical talent? 

I’m honestly not too sure about the state of the Dundee music scene at the moment. I reckon London has more opportunities going for musicians: I guess that is the reason I moved here in the first place. I don’t really think Scotland is overlooked either. For example; there is The Edinburgh Fringe festival in August!

Do you recall when music came into your life? What might we find if we searched your record collection? 

I don’t recall a specific date. But, the first album I ever bought was by a band called Ghosts; it was called The World Is Outside. I loved that album and played it constantly! Nowadays, I listen to lots of style/genres. My top-three (artists) at the moment are Gregory Alan Isakov, Harbour and The Wonder Years

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

My next gig is at Roadtrip & The Workshop on 2nd June in London! I am supporting a band called Mercy Mode (from L.A.).

It seems, to me, the stage is somewhere you love to be. Is performing live your favourite part of releasing music would you say? 

I love most aspects of being a singer-songwriter: performing on stage is an incredible feeling and I always walk off feeling great. I also love the idea of people listening to my music in their homes and on their phones!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018? 

This year, I will be working endlessly to get people’s attention on to my music. I am confident now that I have Wherever You Are recorded. I’m so happy with the finished product.

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

One night, I brought my speaker down to Leicester Square in London and performed live on the street. I drew a large crowd and everyone began dancing to the songs. It was a brilliant night that I will always remember - and something different to what I am used to.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Only by the Night by Kings of Leon; This Empty Northern Hemisphere by Gregory Alan Isakov and War Paint by The Dangerous Summer.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through? 

Well. I’m not sure how qualified I am to give advice as I am only twenty-four! But, the principles I am living by at the moment is work, work, work! You have to want to succeed more than you want to relax - and more than you want to go out and get smashed on the weekends. Also; money you earn should be invested back into your music - not on extortionate meals, extortionate alcohol and extortionate fancy clothes, cars and jewellery etc.

Sounds extreme, but that’s what drives me - and I’m pretty passionate about these viewpoints!

IN THIS PHOTO: Gregory Alan Isakov/PHOTO CREDIT: Blue Gabor Caleel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

I’d definitely recommend Gregory Alan Isakov if you are into your Folk music - and also Misterwives (my brother’s band).

IN THIS PHOTO: Misterwives

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

I set one evening of the week aside from music (usually Saturday evening) to chill, destress and spend time with my friends.

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

Let’s say this one from Harbour...

_____________

Follow Darren Campbell

Official:

http://www.darrencampbell.co.uk/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/darrencampbellsmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/1darrencampbell

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/darrencampbellmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/54xz4bJLjkjKssOdLkZebS

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/darrencampbellmusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRHr5UpQ8GkTc_JeJ-ekapg