INTERVIEW: LENN

INTERVIEW:

LENN

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THINGS change gear as I speak with LENN…

about her awesome new single, Cheap Talk. She explains its derivation and why we can all relate to its messages. I ask her what it was like collaborating with Lex; how her latest single differs from her debut cut, I Know How – she offers up some new artists we need to get our ears around.

LENN explains what she does away from recording/gigging and albums that mean a lot to her; what sort of music she grew up around; how it feels knowing her music connects with people – the songwriter reveals her plans for touring.

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

Hi, Sam. This week has been a bit hectic, so I’m tired. However, I did just wake up from a nice long nap, which was lovely.

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

I’m LENN. I’m twenty-two and I’m living in Bristol. I like singing, eating and sleeping. I’ve only recently started releasing music, so I’m pretty new to it all, but it’s fun.

Cheap Talk is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

It’s about this guy I was seeing a while ago and the way it ended between us. I didn’t feel, at the time, that I got treated the way I deserved. It’s all good, though, because I got a great song out of it.

You collaborated with Lex. Is it a natural partnership that you feel will lead to more work?

I love getting in the studio with Lex and we’ll definitely continue working together. We have a strong friendship aside from music and that level of trust means we’re able to filter and encourage ideas without being afraid of offending one another.

How do you think Cheap Talk differs from I Know How (your debut single)? Do you find yourself growing more confident with each release?

Cheap Talk is really fun and much more of a Pop anthem than I.K.H. and, yes, I do! I’m so excited for what’s to come as well because the next single I’ll be releasing is probably my favourite song that I’ve written to date…

Which artists and albums were important when you were growing up? What attracted you to music?

I used to listen to S Club 7, Busted; JoJo and Leona Lewis. Classic. I just really enjoyed singing along. That’s really where it started for me: I enjoyed singing before I was any good at it. It was only when I hit the age of thirteen that I developed the ability to hold a tune!

Your music is resonating in hearts and connecting with fans and critics alike. Is it pleasing knowing others are getting so much pleasure from your music?

Of course. That’s really a key motivation for doing it. It’s satisfying as well when I’ve read blog posts that talk about parts of the songs that struck them - and it’s a great feeling to know that other people can identify with some of the things I’ve been through. For example, I think most of us have been through situations where we haven’t been treated too well. Writing Cheap Talk really helped me to process those feelings and being able to offer that up to other people is cool.

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

No tour planned just yet, but we’ll start gigging A.S.A.P. - I’m just focused on getting enough material together first. I’m spending as much time as I can get in the studio but, sadly, normal life goes on so I still have to work and that slows the process. We’ll get there, though!

Summer is here (sort of!). Do you find yourself racing with ideas and determined to get out there and thrill the crowds? What is it like bringing your music to the people?

Yeah. We’re writing something new at the mo, which I’m really excited about. The next single is proper summer vibes - aiming to release that in the next couple of months.

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

Definitely, to start gigging. I love being in the studio making music, but performing is the dream.

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

It’s only been a short time for me. But, the first time I heard I.K.H. on the radio was so exciting - I was so hyped; more than I expected to be. It was just so exciting because, although I’d heard the song a million times, it was the first time I’d heard it with other people listening too.

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

JoJo – The High Road

All-time favourite!

HAIM – Days Are Gone

Every single track is excellent - which I think is rare.

ABBA – Gold

All bangers, no mash.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Surround yourself with positive people who believe in you. There are plenty who are sceptical but don’t let them kill your vibe. Enjoy the process. If you’re always looking ahead you’ll miss the now!

IN THIS PHOTO: TS Graye

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

TS Graye. She’s a Bristol girl who just released her first single and it’s so good. She’s got an incredible vocal ability – very cool. Lex has worked with her on a few bits. HANNIE - new and exciting. Got a session in the diary with them; they’ve got a really fun vibe.

IN THIS PHOTO: HANNIE

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

I sleep and eat myself silly. I love to hang out with my good friends Ben and Jerry…

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).

JoJo – Leave (Get Out)

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Follow LENN

Official:

https://www.theysaylenn.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/theysaylenn

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/theysaylenn

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/theysaylenn/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/theysaylenn

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2q3poPC1pFe0l2ObYpZyOO

INTERVIEW: Jonni Slater

INTERVIEW:

Jonni Slater

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I have been chatting with Jonni Slater…

about his new work, Inversions. The E.P./mini-album consists of rearrangements and reworkings of previous songs from his collection – he talks about the process and which tracks from the bunch stand out to him.

Slater tells me about his favourite music and what the music vibe is like in Bristol; if we can see him hit the road very soon; some new acts we should keep a watch for – he tells me about writing for film and T.V.

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

It’s been a good one, thanks, Sam. I just won a couple of festival slots through a songwriting competition run by Glastonbury FM in Somerset, which was judged last weekend at a live grand final. Then, I was back that way on Thursday for a live session on the radio - so all good fun really.

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

I’m a songwriter and composer based in Bristol. My music ranges from intimate and heartfelt to epic and cinematic; I love the pure sounds of a solo guitar, piano or voice but I also love arrangements that build up atmospheric layers of sound and take the listener somewhere out of the ordinary.

Your Inversions E.P. was released in April. What sort of themes and experiences compelled and enforced the songwriting?

My songs tend to be a melting pot of personal experiences mixed with fictional scenarios. I often picture a movie scene in my head, either existing or imagined, and write to that. On this E.P., the songs have been inspired by classic Noir films and hard-boiled 1940s Detective Fiction, Greek myths and one (Not Giving Up) is a nod to The Great Gatsby.

How did the songs come together for the E.P.? Is it true they are reworked and collated from previous work?

Yes. I’ve put out a couple of E.P.s prior to that (Hold On and Now), which were mainly full band arrangements of the songs with an Indie/Alternative-Rock sound, but my live gigs have often had quite different setups. Sometimes, they are stripped back to just piano or acoustic guitar; sometimes more sampler and beat-based, so there have always been multiple versions of these songs out there.  This was a way to bring some of that together on record.

Is there a song from the pack that stands out as a particular favourite?

There are two or three songs that I always look forward to playing in a live set. Alright is one of them: a song about the loneliness of living in a big city, which was given a retro makeover for this record with vintage synths and samples from a Mellotron. Lyrically, it has some quite personal associations for me, although the details aren’t autobiographical. It was recently played on BBC Introducing in the West and it’s been great to get some nice feedback from different sources.

When did music arrive in your life? Who do you count as heroes?

I guess, like most people, my first exposure was via my parents’ record collection; I remember Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band being played a lot when I was a child as well as Paul Simon, Cat Stevens and the occasional Jazz L.P. My biggest heroes are mainly the artists I discovered in my teenage years; including Chris Cornell, Soundgarden and the Belgian band dEUS. The bass player in my first band introduced me to Herbie Hancock and his album Maiden Voyage really connected with me.

You also collaborate with other artists and writing music for T.V./film. Do you feel yourself growing as a songwriter because of the experiences you have gained outside of your own work?

Yes. It can’t help but influence you. I’ve contributed to musical projects in a diverse range of genres, from Hip-Hop and Pop to Classical; working with inspirational people who have introduced me to music I knew nothing about previously - and it’s great to find fresh rhythms or chords - or ways of approaching a melody that you can bring back into your own work - even if only in a small way and filtered through your own style and taste.

For the last couple of years, I’ve been playing keyboards for Maaike Siegerist, who has a strong Jazz influence and, despite having listened to a lot of Jazz that was a whole new area of playing for me that I had to pick up as quick as I could - and which is now seeping into new song ideas...

Being based in Bristol; what do you think of the local scene? Is it a good place for an ambitious artist to play/create?

I think it’s an ideal size for both of those things: it’s compact enough but there’s lots going on to draw inspiration from and to get involved in…and loads of great musicians. I think there’s an inevitable element of competition wherever you are these days, just in the sheer numbers of artists trying to get their music out there. But, it always seems like London can swallow you up all too easily, whereas Bristol feels more supportive.

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

The next couple of dates I have lined up are in July: on 20th at Cafe Kino in Bristol, supporting a great composer and pianist from Bath called Edward Bettella who is launching an E.P. that he has recently recorded with cellist Jonathan Stabler. They’re both fantastic musicians, so it should be a great night. Then, on 26th July, I’m at The Royal Standard in Blackheath (London).

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

My main focus is to work on some new material. I recently recorded a live studio session of a brand new song, which I’m really looking forward to releasing later in the summer. I’ve been co-writing some new songs with Maaike Siegerist, which we’ll be putting out as a joint venture later in the year. I hesitate to call them ‘duets’ in case that conjures up visions of cheesy '70s ballads, but they will feature both our voices and a blending of our influences and styles.

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

I wouldn’t say there is any one grand moment that stands out above all the others - so far, it’s been a consistent run of experiences and opportunities that I would never have had if it wasn’t for music - but I’ve particularly enjoyed performing in the Netherlands over the last couple of years; it’s great to explore a new place while still getting to play some tunes...

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

Tough to pick only three, but I would probably have to go for Chris Cornell’s Euphoria Morning, his first solo album, which is such a fantastic collection of absorbing, musically-rich songs and soaring melodies; made all the more haunting by his sad death last year.

Then, Worst Case Scenario, by dEUS, which introduced me to Tom Barman’s great songwriting hiding in amongst eccentric Art-Rock noises.

Then, lastly, I’ll pick Peter Gabriel’s So, which is a record I can just listen to again and again.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

There’s so much advice out there for new artists, some of it somewhat conflicting; so it’s hard to know what you can add, in a way. There are many different definitions of success, but my aim is always to be doing something that I really want to do; getting involved in projects that interest me and making music that I want to hear - irrespective of changing fashions or whether it’s earning me any money...

IN THIS PHOTO: Ruth Royall

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I always enjoy listening to Guillem Mitchel who released some great songs with Chloe Tyghe recently and is working on his own E.P. In a totally different genre; Scarboy, who I’ve played music with on and off for a few years...and Ruth Royall, is making some great, soulful Pop tracks in Bristol at the moment.

I’m also going to mention Catherine Rudie, a fantastic songwriter with a unique voice based in London - who has yet to release anything of her own but it’s going to be pretty special when she does later this year.

IN THIS PHOTO: Catherine Rudie

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

Whenever I can, I like to just get out and take a long walk somewhere windswept and just forget for a while that phones, laptops and digital distributors exist. There’s nothing like watching the waves pounding against a piece of rugged Cornish coast to clear the mind and put those everyday twenty-first century troubles into perspective.

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’ll choose a song of Maaike’s (Siegerist), co-written and sung with Catherine Rudie, called Keep It in the Dark. Just beautiful. 

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Follow Jonni Slater

Official:

https://www.jonnislater.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/jonnislater

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jonnislatermusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jonnislater/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jonnislater

YouTube:

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

Bandcamp:

https://jonnislater.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Lauren Lakis

INTERVIEW:

Lauren Lakis

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YOU only need to spend a few minutes with Lauren Lakis…

to realise she has experienced much adventure and wonder. I have been chatting with her about her transition into music and what her single, Lead Us On, is all about - Lakis reveals what we will hear on her upcoming album, FEROCIOUS.

She talks about L.A. and how it differs from her home of Baltimore; if there are any gigs booked in the diary; which new artists we should keep an eye out for; why her latest track carries serious emotional significance – Lakis explains how she spends her time away from music.

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

Hey there, Sam. This week has been utterly ridiculous, but I can’t think of a week that *hasn’t* been over the past few months! This week, in particular, I mailed about 430 advance-promo C.D.s to radio stations around the U.S. I can only liken it to watching your child head into their first day of school; you hold your breath and hope that your creation goes out into the world and does something great…

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

Hell. I’m Lauren Lakis. I’m an artist unbounded my any specific medium and find most of my time devoted to performance and expression of some sort - whether it’s music-making, acting in films; shooting photos, or writing. My hope is to make art that helps us to connect with our hearts and each other.

Can you talk about Lead Us On and how the song started its life?

Lead Us On was the fourth song I wrote for the full album; at a time when I was going through the grieving process due to a break-up, as typical as I realize that is. I was vacillating between anger, denial; pain and loneliness and finally found myself in a state of surrender. I was resigned to the idea that, perhaps, I didn’t know what was best, perhaps I wasn’t right in my opinion; perhaps my partner was, indeed, smarter than me and knew something that I couldn’t accept.

The song was my way of declaring: “If this is what you want, then I trust you to lead the way and I will follow…lead us on into the night”. 

FEROCIOUS is your first full-length. What sort of themes, stories and ideas influenced the songs on the album?

Oh, this is definitely a break-up album. It’s all about loss, the dark night of the soul; summoning inner-strength to rebuild and create a life that is even better than what previously was. I explored the full spectrum of the grieving process with this album. It was pure catharsis. I had honestly never been so inspired. 

I was so in love, maybe for the first time with both feet in, and thought I had found ‘my person’. But, that relationship became incredibly co-dependent: we both relied on the other to feel happy and whole. It was bound to implode. My ex was facing some internal struggles and, while I don’t intend to air any of his dirty laundry; he had a breakdown of sorts and became this unrecognizable person to me. It felt like he had died. Looking back, I know that his struggles had nothing to do with me but, at the time, it didn’t seem that way.

I personalized it all. I remember lying in my bathtub, perfectly still, imagining being dead; thinking about who might find me and what people would say. It was all highly-dramatic, but made for excellent songwriting! 

Then, just as I was feeling okay with being alive, my mom was involved in a car accident and suffered a spinal cord injury. So, I immediately flew from L.A. to Baltimore to be with her in the hospital for a few weeks. That snapped me out of any residual self-pity left over from the break-up! I had no choice but to learn how to be strong for my mother.

Needless to say, it was a whirlwind of a year - and I had a lot of material to put into song.

Do you recall the moment music hit you? Why did you decide the industry was the one for you?

I can recall, actually! My mom’s boyfriend’s mother had given me a couple of C.D.s for Christmas one year when I was a kid and, randomly enough (I don’t think she knew much about music - my intuition tells me she picked out whatever looked cool!), she chose Fiona Apple’s Tidal and Garbage’s debut album. Those albums hit me like a ton of bricks. I couldn’t stop playing them and singing along. I wanted to be just like Fiona and Shirley. 

It’s interesting; I don’t know if I decided that the music industry was the one for me until this past year! I’ve been so reluctant to commit to it for so long and wrote my album out of sheer necessity, just for myself. I had no idea it would snowball into what it is. I wasn’t even sure I would record it in a legitimate studio! But, I did, and now I find myself completely entrenched, living and breathing music every single day.

You could call me a late-bloomer…

How vital is Baltimore in regards your drive and sound?

Baltimore city is absolutely vital; it informed me about the world and laid the groundwork for the rest of my life. It’s where I started creating art. It fascinated and terrified me. I’m so grateful to have grown up there as I was never a sheltered child and was keenly aware at a young age that the world could be a very unforgiving place. I have street smarts. It takes a lot to shock me. I’m pretty courageous. Those are all direct results of my hometown. 

I used to always compare Baltimore to Gotham City but maybe that’s a harsh comparison to make. I’m just aware of the darkness that is so prevalent in that city. Perhaps that’s why I’m attracted to dark/moody sounds and imagery. 

Baltimore also has a thriving community of artists working in all mediums - it’s an extremely supportive environment for anyone working in an artistic field. The rent is cheap and there is an actual community, which I miss after so many years in L.A.

Do uncomfortable moments and challenging situations propel and compel songs? You taught English in Prague and hung in warehouses with junkies – writing poetry and shooting the breeze. Do you collate all these lives and experiences when you create songs?

Oh, boy - is ‘junkie’ even a P.C. term anymore?! I guess it is what it is. I think that any life experience can be fuel for song-writing, absolutely. The more experiences, uncomfortable moments and challenges etc. that we face…the more fuel for the fire. I also think that, having had a multitude of different experiences and different ‘lives’, it has helped me to keep an open mind and not be so quick to judge how others choose to live. It’s increased my powers of empathy, which helps me to be a more inspired artist all around. 

Every time you head into the world and experience something new and wonderful. Is it a search for songwriting inspiration or your natural personality looking for new light and colour?!

Ha, ha; that’s just my natural personality. I’m not sure if the credit should be given to my zodiac sign, but I fit the Sagittarius description to a tee! I love to travel, learn about people and expose myself to new experiences. The richness of experience is what makes life so fantastic. I want to die with zero regrets. There is too much to see and do to fit into one lifetime!

Which artists did you grow up listening to? Who do you rank as musical idols?

I know she has a sorted reputation, but Courtney Love has always been a Punk-Rock goddess to me. Her voice and lyrics are so raw, so powerful and I love how she created her own opportunities. I was really into all the Riot Grrrl bands like Babes in Toyland and Bikini Kill. As a teenager, I listened to a lot of Against Me!, Coheed and Cambria; From Autumn to Ashes and Interpol - and got really into all the Alt-Rock of the '90s, even though it was slightly before my time. Portishead and Sneaker Pimps were on-repeat. Trent Reznor is forever a genius, in my book. Elizabeth Powell from Land of Talk is such a prolific songwriter. Peaches was a pioneer…

I’d love to make a covers album of my favorite lady musicians - it would include Cat Power, Hole; Fiona Apple, Björk; Heart, Garbage; Fleetwood Mac, Kate Bush; Juliana Hatfield, PJ Harvey and The Cranberries etc.

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

I’m embarking on a West Coast tour in July. We’re starting here in L.A. with the album release show (June 30th at the Handbag Factory in DTLA) and making our way through NorCal; a few stops in Oregon, Seattle, and then, a Denver show in August. I’d love to plan an East Coast tour after that and, eventually, a Euro tour….and, then, a world tour, if all goes as planned.

Might you come to the U.K. and play here?

That would be a dream. I’ve only ever had layovers at Heathrow: never a proper visit! 

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

Hmmmmm….I try not to get ahead of myself, because I certainly have the tendency to do so and keep my expectations low. However…if I could set high goals for myself I would love for one of my songs to become the theme for a T.V. show and have my songs played on national radio!

I’m also working on the next album, which is currently titled Taiwanese Night Market; so my goal is to spend some time shooting some film and video in that part of the world before the year is over. 

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

There are so many small moments that I cherish. It’s hard to say. Perhaps, my favorite was driving from L.A. to Austin last year with my producer and his sister’s boyfriend (whom I had just met), on a whim, to play a SXSW showcase. We decided, on a Friday afternoon, to leave that evening and drove straight through for about 24 hours. It was hilarious, and difficult, and it bonded us for life. 

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

Hole - Live Through This

Nine Inch Nail - The Fragile

Have a Nice Life - Deathconsciousness

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I feel like a new artist myself! But, for anyone else, I would tell them to just take it one day at a time. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when you’re first starting out - and realize how much work you’ll have to put into this endeavor if you’re ever going to get anywhere with it.

Just write for you; no thoughts of how it might be received. Keep doing it for as long as it’s fun and feels good. Keep it simple. Write from the heart, trust your instincts; work hard and be a good human. The rest will follow…

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ll use this space to shout out my fellow Gooey Music artists - XHOANA X, MRK and Still Jill…also, Pipe Dreams and Velvet who are joining the bill for my release show.

IN THIS PHOTO: XHOANA X

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

These days? Nope! 

Kidding. Sort of…I love taking day trips - or even longer road trips. Driving on the open road is peaceful to me. I love to read, especially French authors of the 1930s and ‘40s like Jean-Paul Sartre, Antonin Artaud and Anaïs Nin. I also love to escape into (Haruki) Murakami’s stories.

Naps are vital...

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 would love to play a show with Emma Ruth Rundle someday. Here’s one of her tracks - 

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Follow Lauren Lakis

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/LaurenALakis

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Lauren-Lakis-147064835905359/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/laurenlakis/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/laurenlakis

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1lb2A86IQoaWDc57lUT7Qy

INTERVIEW: TWOGOOD

INTERVIEW:

TWOGOOD

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THERE is so much colour and fun in the world…

of the fabulous TWOGOOD. The duo consists of Tom and Jon, who have been talking about their brilliant new single, Raindrops, and working with Maddy on it – and the unusual circumstances behind her involvement!

I ask the guys (Tom fields the questions) what the scene is like in Bristol and whether we’ll get more music; how they formed way back and who they count as influences – they share some advice for new musicians and reveal what they have planned for the remainder of 2018.

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

Not bad, man; been cracking on with lots of new music. We had a show in Nottingham last night. Stopped for breakfast on the way home and somehow ended up in a cat café. Turns out those places actually exist.

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

We’re Tom and Jon, A.K.A. ‘TWOGOOD’. We are a producer duo residing in Bristol, striving on providing new-school funky jams. 

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

We both became residents for a night in Leeds. On the opening night, Jonny ended up breaking one of my decks during my first-ever D.J. set. (That kicked things off nicely). Safe to say I thought he was an A-star pr**k for at least six months. After I eventually came round and the dust had settled, we decided to write a track together.

The rest is history…

​​​​​​​

Talk to me about the latest single, Raindrops. What is the song all about?

Jonny was going through some heartbreak at the time so we figured we could use some of this as a stimulus to write something a little different to our usual upbeat party tunes. I suppose the song is just about a classic heartbreak situation. Textbook, but it’s always good to draw from your own experiences. 

Was it cool working with Maddy? How would you define what she brings to the recording?

Yeah. It was great, actually. With all of our previous tracks, the featured artists come prepared with their writing ready to record. But, with Maddy, she encouraged us to sit down as a team and collaborate. It was a totally new experience for us and changed our approach to collaborations for the better. 

I believe you met Maddy on the dodgems! Is it true she attacked you guys?!

It is. We were at a festival last year enjoying a casual ride on the bumper cars when we were attacked from behind by what appeared to be the smallest woman on the ride. We made it our mission to make sure she suffered at least third-degree whiplash by the time the five minutes were up.

Is there more material from TWOGOOD later this year?

This is just the beginning. We’re sat on about twelve unreleased original tracks - just need to set out the time to get them finished. Planning on having another three/four out this year, so hold tight. 

You are based in Bristol. Is there a good music scene in the city right now?

Yes, of course! It’s Bristol! It was pretty much the only persuasion strong enough to coax us out of our comfortable life in Leeds! By the time we were leaving, the whole city had gone pretty Techno.

Moving to Bristol was a breath of fresh air. The scene is diverse. Dig deep enough and you’ll probably find a night that caters for your tastes. 

I know you have opened for the likes of Grandmaster Flash. Which artists do you count as idols?

Nile Rodgers, James Brown; Todd Terje, Disclosure; FKJ…the list goes on.

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

We’ve got a jam-packed summer with over twelve U.K. festivals in the bag and a European tour is in discussion as we speak. Especially pumped for our debut appearance at Shambala this year. We’ll be releasing our whole summer schedule in the next couple of weeks, so keep an eye on our socials to get the full breakdown. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Get rid of Donald Trump. Maybe put out a few more tunes if we have time.

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

One that jumps to both of our minds was our delayed exit from AMP Lost & Found due to Jonny launching a twelve-pound burrito at a shuttle bus after the night had ended. It's safe to say that security was not very forgiving. Jonny's not been the same since.

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

Probably, Nile Rodgers. Not only do we have the utmost respect for him, but we’re also pretty sure he could tell a few good stories in the green room after.

Rider? Dunno…anything to convince him into recording a hit single with us that very evening. A couple of bottles of Patrón XO Cafe and several Valiums would surely do the trick. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Network as much as possible. Be seen. Infiltrate. It’s all about who you know. Also; never be afraid to ask people further along the line than you how they do things. We’ve harassed countless artists in an effort to pry golden nuggets of information from them. Try it. You’ll be surprised how many people are willing to help. 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Nope. Just us…

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

The truth is, no, we don’t. The thing about being an artist is it’s never finished; there is no end. So, it does take up a lot of our time, which is okay I guess because we do enjoy what we do. If we’re not having a good day, gluing pound coins to the pavement outside our house provides sufficient relief. 

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).

Richard Cheese - My Neck, My Back

We found ourselves in a caravan after jamming at a festival with our nearest and dearest when our ears were suddenly blessed by this seductive re-imagining of an all-time classic.

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Follow TWOGOOD

 Official:

https://www.twogoodofficial.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/twogoodofficial

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/twogoodofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/twogoodofficial/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/twogoodofficial

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0734HdQDEd3Mc0olQ4DsCt

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5KSeWgPz4na9dWK0RK6HaA

INTERVIEW: Glassmaps

INTERVIEW:

Glassmaps

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AS it has been a little while since…

I last spoke to Glassmaps; I felt it was right to poke my head around the kitchen window (if that works as a metaphor…) and see how things are! Joel Stein (also of Howling Bells) has been talking about his latest single, My Head My Heart, and its personal origins.

I ask the Australian artist (based in Brighton right now) how naturally the song came together; whether he has had a packed and hectic last year; where he heads from here – Stein tells me how life as Glassmaps differs to being part of Howling Bells.

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

Hi. I’m good, thanks. My week has been colourful…

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

I’m awkward in social situations, but, I will give it a go…

I grew up in Australia where my first band, Howling Bells, was born. After touring and playing with Howling Bells for some time, I eventually felt the need to pilot my own ship, thus giving birth to ‘Glassmaps’.

My first album was recorded in Las Vegas in the rehearsal space of Mark Stoermer, the bassist from The Killers. I am currently in the process of recording my second album and can’t wait to finish it. I believe in the truth and being able to express it. To me, art is one of the most powerful forms of self-expression and self-realisation.

Can you tell me about My Head My Heart and what the origins of the song are?

The song is, literally, about my own personal battle between the head and the heart. I was in a destructive relationship. The beginning riff of the song was conceived on a phone app called Bebot in a hospital waiting-room in Germany. The rest of the song was written in my home that night (until the early hours of the morning). It was a long night...I wanted it to be as forthright as Arcade Fires’ My Body Is a Cage.

PHOTO CREDIT: @littletrousers

It sounds like the song came together in parts. Was it easy to put together – or was it a long process getting it all right?

I guess it did come together in parts. To be honest, some songs are like trying to get water out of a stone: you can hear it all in your head but just have to find a way of extracting it. This song was like that…

You have been busy the past year. How has life been since your debut album came out? Have you had a chance to rest and reflect?!

Life has been pretty much the same…except I just bought a yacht. Just kidding. Now, seriously, I don’t really rest; I’m an addictive writer. I get high on it. Music is everywhere. Ahhhh!

I believe you played The Great Escape Festival. What was that experience like?!

I loved playing The Great Escape. It’s a brilliant festival and I would love to be part of it every year.

Is there new material arriving later this year do you think?

Well. I would like to release new material this year but I’m not sure about releasing an album or an E.P. - I love a full body of work rather than just singles. Even though most of us listen to albums or music in fragments, I still believe in a body of work.

Still thinking…

PHOTO CREDIT: @littletrousers

How does life as Glassmaps differ to your work with Howling Bells? Has it been a learning curve working solo?

One day there’s four of you and then, all of a sudden, you’re stuck with the man in the mirror. I’ve always been comfortable working alone: now, I just do more of it. There are pros and cons. I mean, you can create anything you want without anyone else’s input. On the other hand, it’s a great thing to have someone else’s eyes and ears: sometimes, it’s hard to see the wood from the trees.

What comes next in terms of material from you? Might we see more before the end of the year?

I’m not sure what the plan is. I might make a phone call after this interview.

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

Hopefully, there will be a tour this year...

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’d love My Head My Heart to get a massive synch on an awesome movie that breaks box office records. That would be cool. Oh…and also quit my day-job.

PHOTO CREDIT: @littletrousers

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

There have been some really surreal and big moments. I’d have to say the first Howling Bells tour was with a band called Forward Russia. One night after a show we were all jammed on our little tour bus called Road Runner...

We were all drinking apple juice listening to music as loud as possible and dancing all within an inch of each other; the windows were shut. It was pure energy. It was pure fun from the heart.

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

Sketches of Spain – Miles Davies

OK Computer – Radiohead

TNT – Tortoise

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you don’t believe in yourself then no one will.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Andy Shauf – although, I’m not sure how new-new he is.

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

Not really. I love being with music. I run to unwind and I like to read. I’m reading Born to Run (Christopher McDougall); man, that book is insane! I also just read The Dude and the Zen Master. Absolutely brilliant.

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

How about Andy Shauf again - with a song called The Magician. Cool melody and groove.

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Follow Glassmaps

Official:

http://www.glassmaps.co.uk/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Glassmaps

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/GlassmapsMusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/_glassmaps/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/glassmaps

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1eDfQB7xs0fXoGpJoZkXjx

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpE9goxrMmOnBat2R_t3jwA

Bandcamp:

https://glassmaps.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Caspar Leopard

INTERVIEW:

Caspar Leopard

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THE past couple of weeks…

have been pretty busy for Caspar Leopard! Not only is the man about to get married (unless he already has!) but he has released his new single, Is This Real? He chats about the song and its stop-motion video; how he is juggling new responsibilities whilst keeping his eyes focused on future music – Leopard talks about treasured albums and artists.

He provides some advice for artists coming through and reveals his ambitions for the remainder of the year; how he dedicates his space away from music; why he tackles the big questions about life in his music – the songwriter chats about his filmmaking work and composing the score for the film, Through the Gates.

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

Good, thanks - if a little overworked. I’m getting married at the end of the week; just released a new single and the deadlines, for various composition and film projects I’ve been working on, have somehow all ended up being due this week! – but, I’m looking forward to the wedding and some downtime...

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

Sure. I’m an Alternative solo artist, film composer; producer and filmmaker based at Baltic Studios - a recording studio I run with my brother in London. 

Is This Real? is new. How did that come to be? What started the process?

As a song, it actually manifested pretty quickly. I was messing around on a guitar and it was one of those nice moments when a song just appeared pretty much fully-formed. I went into the studio with Luke Smith and we recorded it in two days and that was it.

The process for the video we’ve made for it was a little more complicated - but I’ll come on to that in sec….

I know there is a look at the big questions in life. Was writing about quandaries and big issues a good way of solving things out for you?

I’ve written quite a few songs that are trying to work out what life’s all about: I’d be lying if I told you I’ve found the answers. I’ve always wanted to work out life’s mysteries, but part of what makes them alluring is the fact that we’ll never find the answers. I reckon the most we can hope to do is make peace with this and enjoy the journey. I’m getting there - give me a few more songs (smiles).

You deal with philosophy and existential concerns in your work. Is that a result of your musical tastes and readings? Do you study a lot of these subjects away from music?

I read into these subjects a bit - especially neuroscience, yoga; spirituality and science fiction. My wife to be is a yoga teacher; my uncle’s a physicist and one of my best friends is training to be a psychoanalyst. I’m lucky to be surrounded by people posing questions like me - and that inspires me to explore my own. 

What was it like working with Luke Smith on Is This Real? Did he bring new aspects and elements into our work?

He’s an incredible producer and has become a good friend. I’ve learnt a lot working with him on my first few releases for this project and also engineering for him on other projects in the past. We share a vision for trying to make music that’s a bit off the beaten track and had a lot of fun making this one. 

Tell me about composing the score for Through the Gates. How did that offer come in? What was it like putting the music together? 

I’ve actually just finished the score this week. The director, Stella Corradi, got in touch having heard some of my previous work. I totally connected with the direction she wanted to take the music - and it was a pleasure working on such a great film.

I love the way there are so many ways to interpret a story, sonically, and it’s refreshing for me to take a break from my solo work and compose in a different way. Getting out of my head and into the characters - and responding to the picture - is a nice change of scene. 

What comes next in terms of material from you? Might we see more before the end of the year?

The big thing on the immediate horizon is a stop-motion animated video for Is This Real? which is coming out next week. It’s been a privilege to collaborate with ex-Aardman animator/director Stefano Cassini (Chicken Run/Wallace & Gromit/Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride). It’s been a long labour of love, as stop-motion animation is a hugely time-consuming process - very much looking forward to sharing it.

I’m also just putting the finishing touches on a surreal, dark fairytale drama which I’ve co-written and co-directed with Hannah McKibbin - and scored by me - which will be hitting the film festivals later this year.

 

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

I decided I wanted to spend this year focusing on writing and recording solo work; making films and composing scores. (Which hasn’t left me any time for touring). The plan is to start doing some shows early next year supporting the release of my second E.P. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Finish the film and composition projects I’m working on and get stuck into my second E.P. – but, more importantly, enjoy life with my new wife (smiles).

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

I’m a bit of a futurist, so I don’t look back that much. If you push me, though, I would say the tours I did with my last band (Get People) supporting Metronomy and Crystal Fighters for their Star of Love Tour stand out. We had an old, beat-up Mitsubishi van and drove around exploring the U.K. regional towns for weeks on end; nursing hangovers from the previous night’s after-show party, trying to find our way to the next city for the next gig.

A lot of fun had – and it brings a smile to my face.  

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

Many great new albums out there, but the ones that mean the most are the ones I’ve listened to the most. Here are three of them: 

Kid A – Radiohead, Wish You Were Here - Pink Floyd and Demon Days – Gorillaz.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I still feel like a new artist myself so don’t feel fully qualified for this question. But, the one thing I’ve learnt is the only way to make a mark on the music industry is to be resilient and stick it out. These days, there’s no fast-track; especially, in Alternative music. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Digby

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Digby - in the Berlin Electronic scene

HÆLOS and Middle Child - in the London live scene 

I’m also really into the L.A. Psychedelic-Rock scene: Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Vinyl Williams etc. 

IMAGE CREDIT: Vinyl Williams

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

I’m very bad at unwinding. I’ve promised myself I’ll take on a bit less after my wedding and live more of a normal life. There’s been a lot going on in 2018 and I miss the pub.  

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

One song…tricky. Well… here’s one of my favourite tracks for a headphones moment:

The Rainbow - Talk Talk

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Follow Caspar Leopard

Official:

http://www.casparleopard.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/casparleopard

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/casparleopard

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/casparleopard/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/casparleopard

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/track/6J2XdCyz4OVA0FZhlY2Cf9

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Beverley Beirne

INTERVIEW:

Beverley Beirne

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NOT too many Jazz artists pass my way…

so it is good to learn more about Beverley Beirne and covering the songs Too Shy and Cruel Summer. She talks about the album, Jazz Just Wants to Have Fun, and what it was like working on the record; what Yorkshire is like for a talented and busy musician – Beirne tells me about upcoming gigs.

I ask her how the music has developed since the early days and what we might expect from her live sets; if there are newer artists we need to keep an eye out for; how she spends her time outside of music – Beirne talks about covering Pop songs from the '70s and '80s on her new album.

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

Hi there. Great, thank you! Super-busy. I’m launching my new album, J.J.W.T.H.F., next week and things are hotting up. I’ve just spotted our music is on Amazon’s Hot New Releases too which is really great.

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

My name is Beverley Beirne. I’m a Jazz singer from Yorkshire and my new album, Jazz Just Wants to Have Fun, is a bit different. Not your usual Jazz standards but twelve '70s and '80s Pop tunes that I’ve played with and done Jazz arrangements for.

Give me a sense of the artists you experienced growing up. Which musicians stand in the mind?

It was very eclectic. My parents loved music but their tastes were very different. Dad liked Classical and Jazz and Mum liked Country, '70s and '80s Pop...so we’d have Ravel’s Bolero, Tchaikovsky; Ella Fitzgerald and Erroll Garner - and, next, we’d have Glen Campbell and ABBA.

Talk to me about recording Too Shy/Cruel Summer. What led you to record the tracks?

These two tracks are part of my new album, Jazz Just Wants to Have Fun. I chose these tracks, like all of the tracks on the album, with a lot of joy to start with because they’re great tunes but they also had to transpose into a Jazz format. So, quite a lot of tinkering at the piano and partying to these tunes…

It seems like Jazz is a big part of your life. Is there something about the history and genre that captivates you?

The music was a part of my life because Dad was a big fan but I also loved all the old black-and-white movies and, of course, a lot of those Fred Astaire movies and Rodgers and Hammerstein films were the original source of the songs that we now call ‘Jazz standards’ in the Jazz world.

Might we get some more material later in the year?

The full Jazz Just Wants to Have Fun album comes out on Friday, 15th June, so that will be available for people to check out if they like the idea of this. But, I’m also recording another album which is a bit more full-on Jazz this summer and I have one in the can that I also recorded at the same time as .J.J.W.T.H.F. called Dream Dancer - so that’s one to look out for too.

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

I’m launching at Ronnie Scott’s on Thursday, 14th June and planning an autumn and spring tour this year. But, you can also see me at Ilkley Jazz Festival this year performing the project I’m recording in June, The Ilkley Suite. 

But, keep a look out for tour dates for J.J.W.T.H.F. on the website.

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

It depends what project I’m performing. J.J.W.T.H.F. is very upbeat and fun but it is Jazz with a definite Jazz vibe. The Ilkley Suite is an original- composed piece which is more improvisational Jazz and will include me using my voice as an instrument in wordless form.

Dream Dancer is a mixture of upbeat and mellow tunes; very atmospheric. But, whatever I perform, I love engaging with my audience: the audience is very important to me.

How do you think your material has progressed since the start? Is Yorkshire and its people/geography a source of influence for you?

I’ve definitely grown as an artist without a doubt. Some of that is time and just experience really. I’m a lot more experienced. But, yes, I do think your surroundings have an influence on you. It’s no secret that I love Yorkshire and my hometown of Ilkley, which is very beautiful - and I love the wildness of the moors and we definitely get ‘weather’ up here. It can make you a bit insular, sometimes, I’d say.

But, then again, the Yorkshire folk are some of the friendliest people on the planet so, as soon as you step outside your door, there’s always someone to say ‘hello’ to.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

More Jazz; more singing! Now we’re getting the new album out there, I want to head off and perform as much as I can wherever any good people will have us (and just really enjoy that). I love performing and I get a real kick out of it, so now’s the time to really do that with this great music we’ve created.

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

I have so many! Being in the studio for J.J.W.T.H.F. and Dream Dancer, which we recorded in one week, has to be up there as one of the musical highlights of my life. We recorded J.J.W.T.H.F. first and Jason Miles, an amazing N.Y. Grammy-winning producer, had come over to produce the albums for me. Me, Jason and the band were in Red Gables Studio, London and we were totally immersed in this music. Two days of J.J.W.T.H.F. and two days of Dream Dancer - with a couple of days listening back to J.J.W.T.H.F. 

The legend saxophonist Duncan Lamont is guesting on Dream Dancer for two of his songs I sing and he came in to play on them - and that was pretty special too. It was a totally magical week. Some great memories.

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

There are way too many, but here are three I love that has been in my collection for some years…

Sketches of Spain - Miles Davis

So atmospheric and amazing musicianship.

Soulcall - Nnenna Freelon

I saw Nnenna at Ronnie’s many years ago and she’s a great artist.

Candyfloss & Medicine - Eddi Reader

Fantastic original music, great lyrics too - and Eddi is another great artist.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Follow your heart and your own gut instinct. No matter what. Get out and perform as much as you can, as no amount of study can replace practical learning and experience. Saying that...always be prepared; practise and practise (and practise) so you’re really comfortable performing.

IN THIS PHOTO: Nnenna Freelon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I love Nnenna Freelon. She’s a great singer. Also, Tierney Sutton and a young singer called Aubrey Logan (who is fantastic).

IN THIS PHOTO: Aubrey Logan

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

My unwinding often consists of a nice bottle of wine with my husband and listening to great music. But, I also really love reading, so I do read a lot of books. I like walking in the beautiful countryside too. I also love going to the pictures.

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).

Any song! Hmm; let me think. Right now, I’d say Aubrey Logan’s song, U Can’t Touch This (MC Hammer); a Jazz cover from her new album, Impossible.

This resonates with me as my own new album is full of these kinds of tunes (that I’ve also done this kind of interpretation for). So, I really appreciate what she’s done with it. Fantastic artist.

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Follow Beverley Beirne

Official:

https://www.beverleybeirne.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/BeverleyBeirne

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BeverleyBeirneMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/beverleybeirnejazz/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/beirnesmith/tracks

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6VdHxrjrpiuIvaKr66n5bU

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrkMnhrHiC373w7oAqz2LWw/featured?view_as=public

INTERVIEW: Essa Weira

INTERVIEW:

 Essa Weira

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AFTER asking Caz where the moniker of ‘Essa Weira’ came from…

I wanted to know about the track, Malo (Ripple). He discusses upcoming material and what it is like splitting time between London and Manchester – Essa Weira reveals a few albums that have made a big impression on his life.

Looking ahead, the songwriter talks about ambitions and gigs; whether he gets time to unwind away from a busy music life; a new act we need to show some love for – I discover why life in the city is so conducive to creativity and sustainability.

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

Hey. I’m well, thanks. It’s been a chilled-out week.

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

I’m Essa Weira and I’m a London/Manchester-based producer. I write electronic songs using a variety of instruments, samples and voices. I collaborate with singers and rappers but it’s mostly a singular effort.

How did the moniker of ‘Essa Weira’ come to pass? What is the tale behind it?

‘Essa Weira’ originally came about after I travelled to Morocco. I stayed in a place called Essaouira, where Jimi Hendrix allegedly wrote Castles Made of Sand (one of my favourites). It was a cool place and it left a lasting impression, hence the moniker…

Malo (Ripple) is out. Can you talk about the inspiration that goes into the song? How did it come together?

Malo (Ripple) was inspired by a few factors…

The word ‘Malo’ is a mix of Manchester and London, as living in both cities has inspired my recent creative directions. Another factor was a psychedelic experience; I wanted to recreate some of the same sensations I felt that day in this tune. The song really started coming together after I sampled the sound of a Zippo lighter and used it as a percussive part of the beat. An idea like that, for me, can spark a whole tune.

Will there be more material later this year would you say?

For sure; I’m always working on new stuff. Watch this space…

You divide your time between London and Manchester. What is it about those cities that captures you?

Having grown up in London, I don’t think I could live anywhere that isn’t buzzing with a similar energy. Both Manchester and London are extremely cultural, filled with fascinating people and quite dangerous in parts. I would say experiencing all these aspects has had a huge influence on my sound; instilling metropolitan life into the way I produce.

Of course, the music scenes in both cities are a HUGE blessing: there are so many performing opportunities and I feel very lucky.

Do you like having the different paces and feel when it comes to those cities? How important are the people regarding your music?

For real. Both places are very different in pace and it’s refreshing to jump between the two vibes - so you never get overwhelmed. I also feel it allows for your ideas to remain fresh and interesting. People are the most important thing! Whether it's performance or streaming, the people decide what’s worth a listen.

Are there any musicians from modern music you follow and take guidance from?

I listen to a lot of stuff, so there are many producers (Techno/Ambient/Chillout/Glitch/Grime/Electro) from whom I take inspiration. Despite this, I would have to say James Blake is at the top of the list. His music gets me.

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

I wish. I’m skint and still at university so it will probably just be gigs for a while. Got a show coming up in London on 22nd of June (details are on my Facebook page).

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

I would love to secure collaboration with a popular artist by the end of this year. I’ve been doing a lot of Hip-Hop and Lo-Fi beat collabs recently - and it would be a good progression forward.

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

Probably my first gig. It was at a tiny club in London, completely taken over by my mates.

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

Burial’s Untrue, J Dilla’s Vol. 2: Vintage and Bon Iver’s 22, A Million.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Gig as much as you can and make your online presence as professional as possible. Both are a great way to network and spread your music.

IN THIS PHOTO: Octavian

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’d hugely recommend Octavian. He has really been doing something special recently. His tropical tunes are a perfect combination of Grime, Dancehall and House.

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

Not really. I study music at university so it's pretty much 24/7. I wouldn’t want it any other way though. I usually unwind by getting outside: the bedroom/studio dynamic can get intense.

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).

Belfast – Orbital

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Follow Essa Weira

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ccaazzbb

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/essaweira

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/essa.weira/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/essaweira

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3FJgWB5q6PxkgDPhrPKmeQ?si=A4CnpbNTRM2cFn4CUAewvg

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:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBjjMhFxQ5kfue9SYdbdNYA

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

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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.

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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.

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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