INTERVIEW: InAbell

INTERVIEW:

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InAbell

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THINGS are getting pretty busy and hectic…

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for InAbell right now. The Israel-based artist talks to me about her single, Break Your Fall, and the inspiration behind the song. I ask what sort of themes and ideas we will get from her E.P., Humble Wishes – she discusses inspiration and artists that have compelled her.

I was excited to know whether any gigs were approaching and what InAbell gets up to away from music; if there are any new acts we need to look out for – she reveals her ambitions for the coming months.

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

Hi (smiles). Things are pretty intense. I'm working on a second album while the first E.P. is still not fully-released - so my days are filled with music creating and sharing. It's interesting.

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

Gladly. Music was always a major part of my life but, to a certain point, I was more a consumer of music than a creator. I was introduced to music at an early age, even though my parents don't work in the field. My taste has varied through the years between different genres. I always loved singing and I find it beautiful that its part of our natural built-in system.

Us human beings like chocolate; the attraction of sex and that love of music. Singing means sharing my voice and offering the listener the chance to connect with me. I always feel a sort of intimacy with people who tell me that they have heard me singing.

Tell me about the track, Break Your Fall. How did it start life? Is there a story behind it?

Break Your Fall started out instrumental. I wrote the simple line of octaves and mostly liked the sound of the instrument and the warm feeling when the bass comes in. I added lyrics and came with that to my brilliant producer, Roy Avital. Together, we elaborated the song to a more interesting level. The idea to include the harmoniser on the vocals came from Roy and I loved it immediately. That was the turning point in the song’s becoming. 

It's, basically, a song about supporting someone in a complex situation. It speaks about a person who is troubled in a twisted way and is going through a dark and obsessive issue. The track’s dynamic flow goes from a stable and collected to a point of losing control and feeling overwhelmed with emotion. 

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It is from the E.P., Humble Wishes. Are there themes and life experiences that impacted the songs? Which song do you count as a highlight?

The whole E.P. is a product of a search. Every song has its story and is different in a way but I'm (overall) pretty pleased with the general flow of the whole thing. The first single that was released was Fresh Honey. I think it was an easier song to digest, while Break Your Fall is more minimalistic and artistic. The third and final single I'm about to release, before the full E.P., is called Nightgown - and I think that it's sort of a blend between the sweetness of Fresh Honey and the darkness of Break Your Fall.

How do songs come together and form? Do you set time to write – or do you let inspiration strike and piece together work gradually?

The songwriting process has changed for me in the past few years. The essence of the song usually comes up - sometimes it is unexpected - and when that happens I write down a few words and keep them for later editing. With my producer Roy, I found that it works out the best when I have a deadline in which I bring sketches of already composed and partially-produced songs. It takes me about a month and a half to bring enough material to that stage. After that, we ‘separate the boys from the men’ and pick out the good songs to continue with.

Humble Wishes took a long time to get together because Roy and I were still getting to know each other. These days, we are working on a second album and I think the process is coming together in a more effective way.

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Will there be more material coming later in the year?

Sure. Nightgown, the third single, will be released around late-July and the full E.P. will be out around August/September. When I perform, I also play a few new songs from the album which is being worked on.

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

Joni Mitchell, Neil Young; Paul Simon and Sting on one hand: Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and D'Angelo on the other. James Blake, Radiohead; Moses Sumney, Fever Ray and other musicians active these days are also a major influence. 

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

Sure. I have a double-single release concert on 5th July in Israel and, hopefully, my band and I will take a trip to perform in London around January if all goes as planned.

If we came and saw you play; what sort of songs/setup would we see?

It’s very interesting to transform these songs from studio to live since there's so much sound involved. We put a lot of effort into maintaining the high sound quality to the stage. My drummer uses S.P.D. pads that have different sounds for every song and I have a set of vocal effects - also changing from one track to the other. Some of them I play live during the show and others are triggered to turn on and off when planned.

We are a trio and the third player is one of my closest friends - who is also an amazing guitar player. You should totally come and check us out!

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

To take over the world with a storm, of course. Or, at least keep creating and performing to different ears all over.

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

I remember my first vocal effect gadget. It was the Boss VE-20 and I used to enjoy playing and performing with it. One of its features is creating a robot-style voice. I once performed with the pedal and accidentally turned on the robot sound. It happened while I was singing a soft emotional song and, needless to say, destroyed the atmosphere (smiles).

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

Blue - Joni Mitchell; Mama’s Gun - Erykah Badu and In Rainbows – Radiohead.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To keep in mind that there's a long-distant run ahead - so it's a good idea to take a deep breath every now and then.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Agnes Obel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I've recently discovered Agnes Obel and love her; highly recommended.

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

Well, yes; I also illustrate and design. I make all the graphics for my music myself and also work for other musicians and customers. I also practice jiu-jitsu as a major hobby for around six years. In fact, in the video clip for Break Your Fall; you can see me doing some moves...

The other male actor is my actual trainer from the dojo where I work out. 

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

Sure! Kimbra – Everybody Knows

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INTERVIEW: WOLVES

INTERVIEW:

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WOLVES

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THE Los Angeles boys of WOLVES…

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talk with me about their latest single, Freaky, and the story behind it. I ask them about the songs mix of Rock and Pop and whether that was a natural unity; how the band got together and what Los Angeles is like in terms of sound/feel.

The guys look ahead at ambitions this year and discuss touring plans; I ask about influences and which artists are important to them; they recommend some new artists and tell me how they chill away from music.

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

Hey! Doing well, thank you! This week’s been really good to us so far. Freaky is already at #90 on the Mediabase Activator Charts and it just went live on Spotify/Apple Music/etc. yesterday!

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

We’re WOLVES and we’re made up of three guys: Marc Avery, Sean Carney and Rocky Sands. Marc is our lead vocalist, Sean plays guitar/keyboards/sings background vocals and Rocky plays drums/guitar/keyboards.

Tell me about the new song, Freaky. Is there a story behind it?

Freaky is all about embracing who you are and letting that freak flag fly! Like we sing in the chorus: “If you freak/ let it show!” Like 99% of our songs; Freaky was written and produced by the three of us. One day, we were in the studio and I came across this crazy vocal chop sample and started playing what became the song’s lead melody line. Sean laid down the chords underneath it and we knew we had a little piece of magic on our hands. The song came together pretty fast…I think the whole track and topline were done by the next time we got together.

It was kind of like lightning in a bottle because most WOLVES songs never happen that quickly. 

The song matches Pop, Urban and Rock sounds. Does that triple-threat approach reflect a curious musical approach in the band? Are restlessness and experimentation the key to everything you do?!

We kind of just tend to make the music we want to hear and we can’t help how our influences come through in the creative process. I think we’ve come across a (really) unique sound in WOLVES that’s entirely reflective of our three diverse musical backgrounds. We definitely do love experimenting in the studio - I guess you could say we are a bit restless. We try to hit a new creative level with each song that we do, and we strive to be different every time.

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

All three of us actually met a while ago. We were all writing and producing songs for other people and had been trying to crack into the Pop songwriting world for a long time. Sean and I met at the ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO back in 2014 and stayed friends ever since. I met Marc during a friend’s birthday party at Dave & Buster’s in Hollywood. I was pretty drunk at the time and he and I randomly got to talking about how we were both songwriters. I don’t know how I remembered but I texted him the next day and we started writing songs together shortly thereafter.

At some point, when we were working, he looked at me and said: “Dude…I’ve always wanted to be in a band more than anything.” I confessed to him that I did too and we decided on the spot to form a band with each other. I knew we needed a third person who could bring the ‘weird’ into the mix, so I called my buddy Sean and the rest, as they say, is history.

Does that name reflect a hunger and sense of attack? Are you a pretty ambitious band?

It definitely does. We’re all pretty chill guys, but we’re absolutely an ambitious band. We set our goals on the highest level of success. We want to have songs that hit the top of the charts because we know we can compete with the best of them out there right now - and we want to take our show on the road and play in front of as many people as we possibly can. There, I said it; we’re officially putting it out in the universe in hopes that it comes true! (Smiles).

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What is L.A. like for the creative mind? Is it a brilliant place to be?

Los Angeles is a beautiful beast of dichotomy. It’s absolutely brilliant and bustling with energy but that energy is bipolar. L.A. is stuck in the past in some parts and catapulting towards the future in others. This city is simultaneously inspirational and disheartening; it’s inclusive on a familial level, yet as cutthroat as corporate America. It’s got its ups and its downs, but I think most of the creative minds here can agree that the highs outweigh the lows and our collective pursuit of passion makes the juice worth the squeeze.

Will there be more music from you guys down the line?

1000% yes. Stay tuned; we’ve got a lot more coming!

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Give me a sense of the music you grew up around. What would have been in your record collections?

I (Rocky) grew up listening to anything from The Beach Boys to Guns N’ Roses to Shania Twain. The Pop was strong in me from very early on. Marc grew up listening to a ton of Michael Jackson and Marvin Gaye and Sean was a big fan of anything from Jazz to old-school Hip-Hop. When you listen to our music, you can definitely hear all of those influences seeping through from time to time.

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

We’re pretty much staying put in L.A. for the time being, focusing on finishing up enough material to roll out our first full-length album. But, hopefully, after that, we’ll be hitting the road everywhere and anywhere!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Honestly, we’d love to see Freaky blow up and become a hit! We think there’s something magical about that song and we hope the world agrees. Hopefully, then we’ll have the opportunity to go on tour and play our music for a whole lot of people.

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

Hearing our debut single, Animal, on the radio for the first time was a pretty insane experience that none of us will ever forget.

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

It would be a total dream come true for us to either open for Coldplay or Kanye West. Those guys are playing the kind of shows that we have always aspired to play and we are obviously huge fans of their music.

As far as riders go, we’re pretty simple guys - we’d be stoked to split a pepperoni pizza.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

BE UNIQUE! Everybody is making stuff that sounds like everybody else right now and music never moves forward that way. Don’t play it safe: dare to be different.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Evalyn

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a ton of artists in our circle who we really love. Our good friend Evalyn is about to drop an awesome second E.P. and I guarantee you’ll be hearing it all over Spotify and Apple Music in the next few months. She collaborated on the entire thing with our buddy nicopop. another fantastically talented writer/producer. I also have to give a major shout out to my good buddy Evan Blum, the hardest-working songwriter in Hollywood. Look out for him shopping for discounted avocados at any given Whole Foods in West Los Angeles.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Evan Blum/PHOTO CREDIT: @bgcinemahouse

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

We’re all pretty big fans of video games and going out for the occasional whiskey. Working out is important to all of us, too - gotta stay fit for the ladies! Music is never really far from our minds, though, no matter what we’re doing.

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

Marc: Better Now by Post Malone

Sean: Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Rocky: Home Is Such a Lonely Place by Blink-182

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INTERVIEW: Rachael Sage

INTERVIEW:

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Rachael Sage

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IT is hard to find where Rachael Sage…

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gets her energy from but, as she says in this interview, the work and passion she has for it drive her forward! I ask the New York-based songwriter if there’s a story behind her latest track, Spark, and what inspired her album, Myopia – she recommends some new artists and talks about N.Y.C.’s contrasts.

Sage tells me what it was like recording her album and whether she gets time to relax away from music; which three albums mean the most to her; if we can see her in the U.K. soon – she gives some great advice for songwriters emerging right now.

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

My name is Rachael Sage and I’m a touring addict! What that means is I am incredibly lucky to be able to create my own original work and am perpetually grateful to listeners around the world - especially in the U.K. - who have graciously embraced my eclectic, Alt-Pop music; allowing me to get up on stage regularly and forge meaningful relationships through music. 

To anyone brand new to my songs, I hope what you will discover by listening is a lexicon of poetry and melody that encourages positivity by making what’s extremely personal, universal. I am always aiming to break barriers and mitigate loneliness because I believe with all of my being that we are all inextricably connected by our humanity. 

Spark is your new track. It seems like the boldest and most ambitious you have created! What inspired its creation?

I was inspired to write Spark by the moment of absolute possibility and hope that arises during a first kiss with someone you already know you have a deep connection with; you don’t know each other that well yet but the chemistry feels magical and meaningful because it is genuine and undeniable. It’s not a song only about passion, but about a kind of purity that exists early on between two soon-to-be-lovers before too many expectations have taken hold - and when everything feels absolutely authentic, exciting; vulnerable and inevitable. 

It is from the album, Myopia. Like the single; what sort of ideas and stories compelled the music on the L.P.?

The title track, Myopia, is very much about the relationship between what we think: the thoughts we allow to take root and grow in our minds’ eye and how that actually colors our view of the world around us. It’s an empowering song about recognizing that the resources you already have are exactly what you need to create the life you want; if you let go of past pain, negative energy and/or current stress.  The concept of vision, including aspects of blindness or narrowmindedness as well as positive visualization and fruition, run through other songs on the album including This Darkness, which is about truly trying to see injustice or suffering through the eyes of someone else and how that kind of vision essentially comprises empathy.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Bill Bernstein

Alive is a very upbeat, positive song about truly recognizing the gifts of vitality, passion; love and even how one may grow from one’s from one’s mistakes. Another song, Haunted by Objects, looks at the issue of hoarding and hopefully destigmatizes a very common urge many people have to cling to too many things they believe they need; that are actually weighing them down, literally. There are a dozen new songs on the album and they’re all very eclectic - but the thread running through them all is this concept of examining myopia i.e. nearsightedness from every angle: romantically, socio-politically and, certainly, in terms of what we deem important in our everyday lives.

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What was it like recording the album? Did you bring any new disciplines and structures to the plate? What makes this album different in your mind?

I played a lot more electric guitar on this album and a couple new axes were in my arsenal!  Sadly, a renowned and beloved guitar store in N.Y.C.’s East Village called Matt Umanov closed while I was recording and I ended up adopting a gorgeous Gretsch guitar that helped me channel a bit more of a Rock ‘n’ Rock attitude on songs like Snowed In, Olivia and my punk version of the Yiddish classic, Umru Meine.

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There are also some very luminary singers I respect enormously who popped by the studio to add their harmony magic to the mix; including rising Irish singer-songwriter Fiona Harte, Pop-Rock twins Nalani & Sarina and Americana songstress Gabrielle Louise. It felt really great to be able to include some of my fierce, vibrant female musician friends on the record - and certainly added a lot of laughter to the sessions!

You have created a whole lot of music in your career so far! How did you keep that creative energy going?! Do you notice an evolution as a songwriter?

A lot of people have asked me how I’ve maintained my energy through the years and it’s really very simple: I love my work. Since I’ve been a little girl, I embraced music with all of my being and it’s given me so much back. It’s enabled me to work eighteen-hour days and be reluctant to go to bed because I was so into what I was doing; so fully captured by the creative process.

Touring has also been a huge gift and given me the opportunity to meet amazing people from all walks of life, in cities and small towns all over the world. I think if anything my evolution has been from being a young songwriter working out my own ‘issues’ (gratefully) through song to a mature woman as eager to write impressionistic, poetic material as to share details about my own story.

I find equal value and inspiration in other peoples’ stories now and do my best to incorporate a balance between fact, fiction and imagination - and toward crafting something that’s hopefully universal and inspiring in some way to others.

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New York is your base. How important are the city and its people to your music?

I adore N.Y.C. and will probably live here forever…but, at the same time, the cliché is definitely true that absence makes the heart grow fonder when it comes to such a bustling, intense place. I know that having lived here most of my life is extremely defining, but I also mourn for a time a few years back when more music clubs and artists were able to thrive because it wasn’t so prohibitive to live here.

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Nonetheless, what I love about N.Y.C., as whole absolutely remains: the passion, intensity and determination of people who are able to survive here and contribute to the diversity (of N.Y.C.). People are very focused and ambition here to be sure which energizes me; and yet they are also very down to earth and open, in my experience. I feel exactly the same about London and consider it to be my ‘home away from home’ for those reasons!  

Have you got any musical heroes that made you want to follow music? Who do you rank as idols?

Among a few of my early, as well as later musical inspirations, are Carole King, Elvis; Buddy Holly, Elton John; David Bowie, Elvis Costello; Sinead O’Connor, Maria McKee; Sarah McLachlan and of course, The Beatles. In terms of creative inspiration, I’ve always tried to avoid the word ‘idol’ because I think it’s dangerous for an artist to aspire to be too much like anyone else; but two brilliant, insightful and musicians have absolutely made a huge impact on me in recent years and those are Folk icon Judy Collins and Synth-Pop legend Howard Jones! The kindness and encouragement both have shown me while touring together has taught me so much, artistically and personally. 

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Can we expect a little stopover in the U.K. at all?

I’m really hoping to be back next year! I love touring the U.K. so much and look forward to sharing all these new songs live as soon as possible!

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

I would love to write a bunch of new songs! This past year has been so busy - with recording the new album, touring the U.S. with Howard Jones and playing festivals internationally - that I simply haven’t had much of a chance to reflect on all of my adventures or process everything creatively, through music.

Being off the road a bit enables me to warm up all those muscles again and to, hopefully, do some extra practising as I’d liked to keep getting better as a guitarist as well! On a non-musical note, I’ve been on a huge spring cleaning kick lately and am basically going through every closet and shelf and purging any piece of clothing, paper, knick-knack or whatever the case may be if I haven’t used it in the last five years. It feels great and, hopefully, it’s a cleansing that will allow new energy to flow into my home and my life! 

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

Playing Union Chapel with the brilliant Howard Jones last year in London was one of the highlights of my musical life. Being able to share such a wonderful experience with an artist I admire so deeply was a huge gift - and the acoustics in that venue are pretty much unparalleled!

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

Carole King /Tapestry; Elvis Costello/Spike and Glen Hansard/Rhythm and Repose.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find a safe local venue where you can perform live as often as possible; figure out what feels authentically you as a performer and don’t be afraid to make mistakes - because you’ll only grow from taking chances!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Seth Glier

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Of course; as label-owner of MPress Records, I’m partial to my own artists! I highly encourage everyone to check out singer-songwriter Seth Glier who has been steadily building his career in the U.S. as a touring artist and whose new album, Birds, is absolutely brilliant! I’ve also been really enjoying rising Irish artist Fiona Harte whose new E.P. will be released very soon. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Fiona Harte

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

I do my best to balance work with play but, as they say, if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life! That being said, I love watching movies, crafting; designing my own stage clothes and painting.

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 Want You – Elvis Costello & the Attractions

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INTERVIEW: I Am Karate

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Julia Stjernlöf

I Am Karate

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I have been given the chance to chat…

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with the awesome Swedish duo, I Am Karate. Marta and Erika talk about their new single, Expectations, and what its story is; what they hope people get from the song; whether they’ll be more material this year – they tell me how they got together.

I ask them whether there are new artists we need to look out for; what the scene is like in Sweden right now; whether we might see them on tour this year; if they will come to the U.K. – they reach select a song to end the interview with.

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

Erika: Great! We’ve just been on this songwriting camp arranged by Flow Sessions in this magical outdoor concert venue in Dalhalla, Sweden; pretty close to where we’re originally from. We met a lot of great people there!

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

Marta: We’re Marta and Erika and we have a band together called I Am Karate. It has been our baby project and love since we started it in 2014. We make Electronic-Pop and have written and produced our own music for a long time but for our latest release, Expectations, we worked with the really talented Norwegian producer called Eirik Røland.

Expectations is out. How did it start life? Is there a tale behind it?

To be honest; Expectations is one of our most personal songs ever. It was both hard and liberating to write and record the song because it means so much to us. There’s a tale behind it that’s a little too private to get into but we think a lot of people can relate to the message of the song. It’s about a relationship that’s falling apart, because of different priorities, but you’re too in love to let go yet.

Did you have a lot of say regarding the lyric video? Whose concept was it?

Erika: The video is actually an I Am Karate Production, so we’ve made it ourselves. It was a bit frustrating directing balloons because they do whatever they want but, in the end, it worked out fine! We’ve had this balloon theme for Expectations because it’s such a great metaphor for the word itself. 

The track is a bold and summer-ready song. What do you hope people get from the song?

Marta: We hope we can be a company heading home through the night; a comfort for those who feel what we’ve felt. It’s a true heart-on-your-sleeve song.

Is there more material coming later this year?

Erika: Yes! Next up is a new single later this summer! We’re super-excited!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Julia Stjernlöf

How did I Am Karate get together? When did you meet?

We first met in 2012 but we both had other bands back then. In 2014, Marta got a gig at a library in Stockholm that her bandmates couldn’t take and she asked me if I wanted to do something with her instead. It just clicked right away - like musical symbiosis, kind of! We played some covers and things we’d written for our other bands. After that, we knew we had to start a band together!

Sweden is where you are based. Is it a great country to make and record music in? What is the local scene like?

Marta: Yeah. It’s a great country to make and record music in. We have a studio in a studio collective near Slussen, the south part of Stockholm, and we’re really happy to be a part of that. Stockholm is a musically vibrant city to live in and Swedish music export is magnificent. Just to mention some awesome people: Robyn, Tove Lo; Icona Pop, Fever Ray; Tove Styrke, Miriam Bryant; Skott and so on!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ninja Hanna

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

We’ll do some promotional concerts here in Sweden this summer but we’re planning to put together a proper tour after the summer.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Erika: We’ve just started collaborating with an organisation called Dala Pop and they’ve been really supportive - and we have some cool stuff planned with them both concerts and releases. We’ve been focusing a lot on writing and producing lately but now we’re hoping to do more concerts abroad and connect with our Karate-Kids outside of Sweden.

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

Marta: Two years ago, we went to New York and got to play with the one and only Benny Andersson (ABBA) at the Guggenheim Museum. That was mind-blowing. 

Erika: Yes. What she said. But, also like the little things…like when our song, Bitter, came to life; it was just so easy like a puzzle that just laid itself. That state of (just) total flow and being in the music.

Marta: Okay; now I wish I said what she said. No offence, Benny (Erika smiles).

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PHOTO CREDIT: Sara Björkegren

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

We’d go crazy if we got to support Post Malone. His melodies and flow have been such an inspiration for us. In terms of riders, we’re not that picky. We just want only red M&Ms, thirteen trained white-headed capuchins and ten bottles of your best locally-brewed beer.

Erika: … and a batch of Swedish snuff: Lundgrens Skåne Vit.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Marta: Do you. Always go with your gut. Sounds cliché but, if you’re not 100 % in it, you will not be able to hold on to what’s so great about making music.

Erika: Also; don’t rush it! Be prepared; write A LOT of songs so that you can pick the absolute best ones to release.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Claudia Jonas

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Erika: Yes these two crazy-creative sisters who are friends of ours:

Claudia Jonas: https://open.spotify.com/track/6By5IjUiQHNeSsFXLmCHEk

Julia Jonas: https://open.spotify.com/track/7zZuzU6Wr8H4Nvcj6ciCDw

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IN THIS PHOTO: Julia Jonas

Also, a friend Thea (called Becky and the Birds):

https://open.spotify.com/artist/52MMXmgPC7kDNIYUxCeh8d?si=qpkocNz1QDOV_SphXbpLmQ

Marta: These three girls write and produce everything themselves which is so just inspiring and awesome!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Becky and the Birds

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

Erika: I try not to listen to too much music when we’re in a writing phase: I listen to a lot of podcasts and YouTube channels. My favourite one is the H3 podcast with Ethan and Hila. Just love them.

Marta: I have a hard time to chill away from music. But, I need breaks and then I usually read a book or bake to unwind. 

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).

Marta: Nights by Frank Ocean

Erika: Stay Off My Mind by Skott

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INTERVIEW: Reuben Alexander

INTERVIEW:

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Reuben Alexander

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THE excellent Reuben Alexander…

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has been talking about his new single, Always There (with Livin Out Loud), and what sort of thing we will find from the record, In Reality (out later in the year) – he reveals which albums and artists have been important to him.

Alexander tells me whether we’ll see him in the U.K. soon; what it is like being seen as one of America’s best-kept secrets; some newer artists that are worth a look; how he spends time away from music – he provides some great advice for ambitious artists emerging.

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

I am Reuben Alexander. I consider myself to be an artistic entrepreneur in the new music industry model (artist, producer; entrepreneur and speaker). I use passion and a sense of humor to express who I am through life experiences. I truly believe family comes first. I originally started out as the creative producer for the group Livin Out Loud, creating and producing with my brother and sister. Now, as Reuben Alexander, I’m putting a new spin on my life - continuing to create and connect with others.

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Always There is your new single. Can you reveal the story and how it came into your mind?

The lyrics "always there" is nowhere to be found in the song: it is a sentiment to the feeling tone I had in my relationship. The music represents a self-empowerment I had moving forward in life. The song is a reflection that I was always there. Also; I will continue to be always there and not lose myself.

In Reality is out later this year. What themes and stories did you collate for the record?

The themes and stories that come to mind are love, self-empowerment and being introspective. The videos that we’ve released take on an almost sequential order of different stages of love. It starts from beginning to end and back to new beginnings. The self-empowerment and introspective part is really a tone that is a constant throughout the record. You hear it right away in the lyrics for the single, Always There: “As I wake up in this reality...”.  This is a way to express that life is always changing and to be present when you feel the shift in your next evolution. Hold on to who you are.

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There are other artists on the album. Who can we expect to hear on the record?

It was great working with all of the talented artists that came together on this record. There is a feature with the group, Pleasure, as well as Mikki Free on the song, Gotta Give It. Thurz is doing his thing on Trouble; bringing his perspective to the story with a nice contrast. I have a duet with Jennifer Phillips on the single, Put Some Love on It. She brings her amazing vocals, passion and spirit to the record. She gets putting some love on it.

You are seen as one of American’s greatest-kept secrets. Is it flattering knowing that so many people love your music?!

It’s great being able to touch so many people’s lives just being who I am. I find satisfaction knowing people are connecting with me on that level. I’m flattered that I’m a ‘kept secret’ but I really like that the music is being heard. The fact that it’s moving people is the most exciting part of the whole thing. I definitely want to continue to connect.

Tell me about the artists that influenced you growing up. Do you take a lot from the Soul legends in terms of sound and passion?

Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and Ray Charles are three of the main Soul legends I am influenced by most. I am influenced by many other artists and groups but those are the ones that change how I express music. I identify with their passion, storytelling and interpretation of life. They don’t sound the same on every song. Each song has its own life. I see myself trying to emulate those traits.

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

See Kin Productions.

Might we see you in the U.K. this year? Do you like the music coming out of Britain?

We’re looking to coming back to the U.K. in August. We had an exciting tour in April launching the first single, I Can’t Stop. We want to continue to keep it going.

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

I’m excited about the podcast talking about the new way of doing music in the industry; finishing up writing a book with my mom. Touring and performing will be amazing. I’ll continue to connect and create with new artists.

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

Driving into Arkansas at 1 A.M. on the highway with my brother hearing I Can’t Stop on the radio. We drive all over the South and that was the payoff. It sounded so different.

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

Marvin Gaye - I Want You

Stevie Wonder – Innervisions, Songs in the Key of Life

These albums really got me understanding the purpose of music. I listen to the stories over and over again.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Know who you are, what you want to say and how you want to be seen. The old model of being discovered and getting on the radio is not there: you are your own brand. Do things outside of music to bring in more interest. Be clear on your message beyond the songs you put out. Know your audience and connect with them; someone will relate to your story. Build your team. It will take time but it’s necessary.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Mahalia

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Daniel Caesar, H.E.R.; Mahalia, Elli Ingram and Moss Kena.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Elli Ingram

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

I like to chill spending time with my kids (being dad). I also like being at home watching movies. Hanging with my bunny. Yes; an actual bunny. She’s my spirit animal and pet. Don’t know how that happened but it’s cool. Taking a good long walk is good, too.

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

H.E.R. – Focus

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INTERVIEW: Old Cities

INTERVIEW:

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Old Cities

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THE brilliant Jordi White…

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of Old Cities talks to me about that unique moniker and relocating from Israel to Australia. I was keen to know about the new single, Again, and what we will get from the Old Cities I E.P.

White tells me about his musical upbringing and what life is like in Australia; if there are going to be any Old Cities dates; which artist he’d support if he could choose any – he recommends some new acts to follow.

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

Hey, Sam!

I’m doing really well, thanks - hope you are too. My week has been crazy; just played a gig Friday night here in Sydney and then releasing a new tune; super-excited for it! But, I’m sure we’ll get into that more later…

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

For sure! My name is Jordi, A.K.A. ‘Old Cities’; hailing from the North Side of Sydney, Australia. Old Cities is my band and creative outlet, and I’d describe it as Indie-Pop-Rock. When I’m not writing or recording for my own stuff, I’m writing and producing with a whole bunch of other artists.

How did that name, Old Cities, come to be? Is there a reason for that moniker?

Great question. So, it stems from a few things…

When I was initially looking for a band name, my wife threw the idea of Old Cities at me. She had been looking at a map of Nazareth, Israel (where I was born) and had found a suburb called The Old City. This struck a chord with me and made me reflect on the concept of an old city. If you think about all the old cities around the world we either restore, preserve and show them off; or we let them lie in ruins and hope that no one finds them.

This can be thought of as a parallel to moments in our lives; some stories and moments we share and show off to the world while others we hide away and hope no one ever finds out about. The songs born from Old Cities expresses both these moments of love, beauty; hurt and shame.

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Talk to me about the single, Again. What is the story behind that one?

This track is one of my personal favourites. It’s a ‘close to your heart’ kind of song. I wrote it sitting down at the piano and it was one of those rare gems that just came together right there in the studio that afternoon. It’s a song about the journey, about moments in life where you find yourself inevitably back in the same familiar places you thought you’d left behind. It embodies the nostalgic joy found in familiarity, but also the frustration of stagnation.

It is from the E.P., Old Cities I. What might we expect in terms of themes and songs on that E.P.?

The E.P. is a collection of six tunes - of which three are concerning Again – and is out now (you can check them out on Spotify, Apple Music etc. etc.). This E.P. is actually the first side or half of this body of work. In the same way that a record has two sides; I decided to release it in two sections, in an effort to give people time and space to enjoy both sets of songs. The themes on Old Cities I are fairly diverse: love, loss; humanity, hope and hopeless romanticism.

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Jordi. What was it like being raised in Israel and growing up around the beaches of Sydney? How did you come to meet the band you play with?

Well…I would love to say I remember Israel as a kid but we were back in Sydney before I could walk so, needless to say, I don’t remember anything of any value from that time in my life. I’ve been back though and it’s a cool country; very diverse in both climate and culture. It is crazy to see all its historical significance and visit the places that you might have heard about in Sunday school.

Growing up in Sydney, though, was a dream! Sunshine, some of the world’s best beaches and plenty to do. I grew up a stone’s throw from what some people may know as ‘Summer Bay’ from an Australian show (Home and Away).

The boys I play with all happen to be good friends of mine. We’ve known each other since early-high-school. It is seriously incredible to have best friends that are amazing musicians. They’ve really helped bring this project to life!

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Is Sydney thriving in terms of music and sounds? What are the advantages of working there?

Sydney’s music scene is pretty good; reasonably small on a world stage, but big enough to get some pretty decent acts coming through town too! I feel like it is definitely building at the moment: there seems to be new talent popping up all over the place!

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

At this stage, there is nothing concrete in the calendar as yet but we are in the midst of organising some dates in Sydney and surrounds so stay tuned on our social media to keep up to date.

Do you record music in the studio with the band or only on the road? How does the music you make in the studio differ to that of the live gigs – do you have a different set-up and style in each setting?

I basically live in the studio! I love it! I write and produce both for myself and other artists. Having said that, I’m always creating so, when I am out and about, I definitely have my travel rig that allows me to keep on working where ever I find myself. Sometimes, the challenge of not having all your usual tricks and equipment can help you find new approaches to making music! I love that too! 

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

I hope so! I’d love to get some shows in the U.K. It’s just a long way to go…

If you know anyone wanting an Aussie band to support a tour up there then reach out and let us know. Haha. We’d be keen, for sure! I also have a few friends up there so might make a trip and see if we can slot in a couple little shows on the side (smiles).

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

2018 has already been a massive year for us: we’ve put out two singles, including Again, and two videos with preparations already in motion for the third single - and the Old Cities I E.P.  There is also a plan to have Old Cities II out by the end of the year - or January next year at the latest! We’d love for as many people to hear these tunes as possible.

The most rewarding thing for me is seeing people resonate with your songs and finding some kind of hope or meaning through the tunes that I make.

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

There has been so many cool things that I’ve been able to do through music: traveling, writing and producing etc. But, I think the one thing that really sticks with me is the ability that music has to bring people together. There is a certain vulnerability that comes with music collaboration and I love the way that it can make friends out of complete strangers.

As far as a specific moment goes; playing the Metro Theatre in Sydney was pretty cool.

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

That is a tough question…I’m torn between Coldplay, One Republic; Beyoncé and so many others…but, I think I’d have to go with Coldplay just for the chance to meet the guys who I have looked up to for so many years.

I’ll assume you mean the backstage snacks/drinks?! Anything in the world?! Probably an epic Japanese BBQ with a few good Japanese beers and, definitely, some top-shelf Japanese whisky…can you tell I’m in a bit of a Japanese appreciation phase?!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stick at it and be prepared to do the hard yards. Also; just keep making music, pushing the boundaries of your own thoughts and honing your craft.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Middle Kids

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Not really up-and-comers any more, but if you haven’t yet checked them out get into Middle Kids. I just saw them play a show at the Sydney Opera House and it was all time! Also, check out a couple of local acts down here in Aus: LANKS, Glades, Holy Holy and London artist Lucy Mason.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Glades

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

I love a good bonfire, a good drink and some banter with some good friends. I actually also unwind on aeroplanes (I love them) and travelling; experiencing new places and different cultures. Give me a snowboard or even a great book, too!

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).

Give Mistake from Middle Kids a spin…you won’t regret it!

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INTERVIEW: The Worst Humans

INTERVIEW:

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 The Worst Humans

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YOU certainly get ample rawness and honesty…

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when it comes to The Worst Humans! I have been speaking with Ian from the band about their new single, What I’m All About, and whether they’ll be more material; how the guys got together and whether he ranks Brooklyn as a creative and essential hub.

Ian tells me how he chills away from music and which artists he’d like to support; which newer artists are worth a bit of exploration – a bit of a ‘brief’ and ‘interesting’ interview, to say the least!

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

Interesting…

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

Well. My name is Ian and I play guitar and sing. There’s also Steve who plays bass and Chris who’s on drums.

What I’m All About is your latest single. Is there a story behind the track?

Not really; not a specific story. I’m overcome with boredom most of the time and I find it insufferable. Usually, I contemplate my own death or get high - and I figure there are some people who feel the same. I was able to put it into words one day with my friend Chris McLaughlin (not in the band) and he made it come to life. So the story goes, I suppose…

How did The Worst Humans find one another? When did you begin making music together?

Through a long-time friend, Sam Tall (not pictured).

Is there going to be more material from the band in the coming months?

Probably, ya.

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Give me a sense of the artists you were all raised on. What sort of music did you all grow up around?

Everything from, like, Megadeth and GG Allin to Joy Division through to The New Lost City Ramblers.

What is Brooklyn like for a modern band? Is it a great place to study and play?

Most of us haven’t studied Brooklyn but I’m sure it’s fascinating. To be honest, there’s not much of a music scene to speak of. Everyone’s packed up and moved West. I’m thinking we’re trying to make a new one if we can.

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

Seriously?  

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Is a small tour of the U.K. a future possibility?

Abso-fuc*ing-lutely.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Something with purple.

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

I played Red Rocks one time. That was neat.

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

Iceage. alt-J; Arctic Monkeys and Meg Myers. TAKE US ON TOUR!

As your band’s name is ‘The Worst Humans’; if you could put any three people on a raft and float them into the ocean forever, who would you select?

Hahaha, finally; not a boilerplate question. If we’re speaking for real, probably Jimmy Buffet, Pentatonix and White Boy Funk (if we can personify it).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Pick anything else…

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Tallest Man on Earth

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The Tallest Man on Earth and Lord Huron. These two are tremendously important to me and it’s important to me that you listen to them.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lord Huron

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

I’m an unsigned musician barely making it in New York. Every waking moment is chilling.

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).

Secret of Life by Lord Huron. Please and thank you

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INTERVIEW: STEELE

INTERVIEW:

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STEELE

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I was determined to speak with STEELE…

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about her track, Knots, and how it came together. The Swedish artist talks about making music/living with epilepsy and how health issues have affected her career; what inspired her album, PAROXYSM, and whether there will be any tour dates – I ask if she will come to the U.K.

STEELE talks about her musical muses and whether she gets a chance to unwind away from music; which musical memory sticks in her mind; some new acts worth a look in – she ends the interview by selecting a rather good track!  

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

Hey! I’m good, thank you! My week has been eventful – but fun! I just released my first album, PAROXYSM!

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

Hi, everyone! My name is STEELE and I’m a half-Swede, half-Brit based in Stockholm. I’ve been a musician all my life, starting off with Classical piano which then emerged into Soul, Funk; Jazz, Rock; Pop and eventually became my ‘own genre’. My music is quite melancholic, bittersweet and progressive - ‘Cinematic Pop/Trip-Hop’.

 

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

Knots was the final song that I wrote for the album and it was is the midst of me being very sick and hospitalised. My loved ones were obviously distressed as I nearly didn’t make it and some of the people close to me couldn’t handle the apprehension and vanished from my life. Of course, I don’t judge anyone for it as it was an extremely uncomfortable situation for everyone but the track is sort of the anthem to that person who left. 

You also have an album, PAROXYSM, out. What sort of themes inspired the songs we hear? What was it like recording the record?

As mentioned above, a big part of the album is permeated by me being sick, and not just recently – but, actually, also right before my first E.P., Opium, was released. Back then, I had to have a severe neck surgery that actually affected my voice afterwards, which you can probably hear on the second E.P., Hiraeth. Other than that, relationships and love are, of course, major factors to my inspiration.

Recording the album has been a roller-coaster, mentally; emotionally and physically. I’ve loved it. I’ve hated it. I’ve felt indifferent. But, in the end, I’m happy to say that the result is a very honest and intimate record that I’m proud of.

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How do you think you have grown as a songwriter the past few months? Are you more confident, would you say?

I would say I’ve grown for sure. I don’t feel as restricted or keen to follow rules - or sound perfect or like someone else. I know I’m no Beyoncé - but she’s no STEELE either. Jokes (I love you, Beyoncé!)

How did music come into your life? Which artists sparked your imagination?

I began playing the piano at a very young age; most likely inspired by a bunch of my family members being very musical and introduced me early on. I’d say Björk, Portishead; Massive Attack, Radiohead and a lot of Swedish artists paved the way for me.

You were struck by meningitis and suffer from epilepsy. How has this changed your approach to music?

I think it’s changed my whole perspective in general. Making better choices, being more appreciative; pursuing the right things, cutting myself some slack (for once) and embracing flaws rather than banishing them. All of that I can apply when it comes to music as well.

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Will there be any live dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

At the moment, we are regrouping both from my recovery and from the release and will let the album live a little on its own. But, we are of course planning to do live gigs in the near future.

What is the live scene like in Sweden? Will you come to the U.K. and play?

The live scene here is pretty good, I think! A lot of people are interested in music and are open to discovering new things, which is great! My plan is definitely to come to the U.K .and play.

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

I want to go up to the north of Sweden and do a hike in the mountains. Also, I want to be able to do at least (!) one chin-up. Haha.

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

I’d say when I had the release party for Hiraeth and I was singing 8 A.M. I looked out in the audience and many people had tears in their eyes or even cried. It wasn’t an ego-trip, but I felt touched myself. Music can feel so exposing but at that moment I felt content and connected. 

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

Homogenic by Björk, A Rush of Blood to The Head by Coldplay and Above by Mad Season.

They’re all from the '90s and have this wonderfully fulfilling teenage anguish about them.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Remember why you do it, not who you do it for. It’s easy to lose sight when you’re in the midst of the business and most likely people will tell you what to do; point out things you should change about yourself; reject you and tell you they don’t like what they here. Those people aren’t meant to be your audience anyway. It’s really not worth losing your love and passion for music because of some people’s opinion.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ramsey, Lilla Vargen; Sabrina Claudio and Inude.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Sabrina Claudio/PHOTO CREDIT: Nikko Lamere

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

I try to get out of the city whenever the opportunity is given. I love nature and plan to move to the countryside as soon as possible. Also, I love creating - painting, sculpturing; just anything with my hands!

 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).

Downtown by Majical Cloudz

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INTERVIEW: MAAD

INTERVIEW:

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MAAD

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IT has been delightful speaking with MAAD…

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about her music and the story behind the latest single, New Religion. I ask her whether there is more material coming and if her experience as a model feeds into music itself – she recommends new artists to watch and talks about touring.

I was excited to learn which artists influence her and what L.A. is like as a base; if we will see her in the U.K. at all; the three albums that mean a lot to her; if she gets time to unwind at all – MAAD gives some handy advice for fellow songwriters coming through.

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

I’m good! This week has been tied up with promoting the video for my recent release, New Religion. Also, I had the opportunity to D.J. for the Instagram launch of IGTV; so it’s been an eventful week, to say the least. 

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

Yes. Of course! My name is MAAD. I’m a singer-songwriter, D.J. and model. 

What is the story behind the song, New Religion? How did that song come together?

New Religion started off in London. I had a session with Grades and Chiara Hunter. I was hype for this session as I had been a fan of Grades’ work prior to me meeting him and would frequently spin his music at my sets. So, it’s always mind-blowing when you get to work with people you admire. 

In the session, I remember Grades playing these chords and Chiara had a few melodies and lyrics that came to mind, so we just bounced ideas off of each other. After the song was written, I recorded a reference vocal of it and took it back home to the States with me to recut it. I enjoy recording myself as I can really take the time I need to tighten my vocals up. I then linked up with my engineer/vocal producer Raleigh to finalize everything. 

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Do you see more material coming along before the end of the year?

100 per cent! I’m preparing to release my next E.P. later this summer. 

Ever since I saw the video for 90s Love (2016); it seems like music videos are an important part of your art. Are visuals and representing your music through visual mediums vital to convey the power of the message?

Yes, for sure. I think we live in a very visual time, so it helps connect the listener to the song even more. I personally love the process of shooting videos as well! 

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L.A. is where you are based. How important are the city and its people regards your sound and sense of ambition?

Cali is a very recent move for me: a lot of the music that I created for this project came out of N.Y. and London. I am excited to see what sounds I can explore in L.A.! 

You are also a model (as well as a songwriter). Do the disciplines and skills acquired in that field come into music? Are there attributes of the modelling world you bring to music?

Honestly; modelling has taught me so much about the entertainment business. I’ve learned a lot about how to work with a ton of different people and how to build a brand.

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Give me a flavour of the artists who have inspired you. Who do you rank as idols?

Some of my favorites are Diana Ross, Tina Turner and Michael Jackson, to name a few. I appreciate their craft as musicians and entertainers. 

You have gained plaudits from radio stations, fashion magazines and big sites. Is this backing and sense of respect something that drives you and makes you more determined?

I definitely appreciate the sites showing love to my music: it’s always important for me to be able to reach new listeners, so I never take any of that for granted. As far as my determination; it comes from wanting to continue to inspire people that they can do whatever they put their minds too. I’m indie and very much still trying to figure things out myself - but it’s nothing like growing into what it is you have in your mind to become.

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

As of now, my team and I are planning a few shows so will definitely be announced in the near-future. 

Will you come to the U.K. and play this year? Do you like the music coming from over here?

I come to the U.K. at least twice a year. I was recently there in May to perform at The Great Escape Festival. The U.K. always shows so much love, so I enjoy coming out there whenever I can. 

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

Touring is on the top of my list. It’s nothing like performing and connecting with people through my music. 

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

A recent memory would be performing at Selfridge’s Music Matters series. I broke down in tears on stage as I was just overwhelmed with joy. I had just released a new single and it premiered on Billboard and Apple Music. That moment really meant so much to me. 

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

Amerie - All I Have; Glenn Lewis - World Outside My Window and Aaliyah’s self-titled album.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

For starters; make sure you have a solid direction on what it is you want to accomplish. Make goals and go after them. 

For me, I always had an idea of what sound I wanted to create but had a hard time articulating that to everyone in the beginning. Music is all about trial and error: I have older songs that I cringe listening to but you need that to grow. It’s like that saying: ‘Fall down seven times, get up eight’. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ravyn Lenae

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m really into Steve Lacy, Ravyn Lenae; NAO and Ruby Francis.  

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IN THIS PHOTO: NAO

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

To be honest, even when I’m relaxing I’m still thinking about work. I don’t feel like I’m in a place to fully unwind but I have picked up skateboarding as of recently. It forces me to solely focus on what I’m doing because I don’t wanna fall (laughs).

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

GoldLink (ft. April George) - Rough Soul 

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INTERVIEW: Jessie Munro

INTERVIEW:

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Jessie Munro

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THERE is so much life and fascination…

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running through the blood of Jessie Munro. The stunning songwriter talks to me about her new song, Under Fire, and its personal relevance; what we will get from her upcoming E.P., On My Own – she reveals which artists and albums have been instrumental to her.

I ask Munro whether we will see her in the U.K. and whether there are any artists we need to seek out; what she learnt from Berklee College of Music; how important Los Angeles is as a musical city – Munro ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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

Hi. I'm great, thanks! My week has been great. How about you?

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

My name is Jessie Munro. I'm a twenty-three-year-old artist from Toronto, Canada and I'm gearing up to release my first E.P., On My Own!

Under Fire is your new one. What story started this song? Was it easy to put together?

At the time, I was kind of mid-breakup at the stage where everyone is trying to weigh in on what they think is best for you. It amazing to have so much support and I am so grateful to have the friends and family that I do, but I started feeling like there were too many people to please. I was feeling like everyone around me wanted something different but I wasn't asking myself what I wanted and, when I finally figured that out and acted on it, everyone had something to say.

As much as this song was written about a specific time in my life, it still applies to my life today. People will always have an opinion but, at the end of the day, I need to fall asleep happy with who I am and the decisions I've made. 

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I love your vocals and blending old sleek and modern with vintage and cool. Do you like to splice from the treasure chest of music and mix in some current vibes?

Thank you! Absolutely. I think that is one of the most important things to me. I grew up listening to artists like Carole King and truly admire her storytelling and classic melodies. When it came to developing this sound, one of the main focuses was trying to blend that classic fee good sound with more current sounds. Melodies like that are also so much fun to sing; feels kinda like butter. Haha. 

On My Own, your upcoming E.P., seems to hold emotional weight. Were breakups and heartaches at the centre of your mind? Was it quite cathartic exploring these feelings through song?!

Definitely. This may sound a little strange but my producer and co-writer for this project was my ex. He's my best friend and, when we broke up, a way for us to both kinda cope with it was to write about it. Because we were the only two people who knew and understood exactly what happened and what went wrong; it was really easy for us to communicate how we were feeling and what kind of music we wanted to write to let it go. A very unconventional situation, but, for us, it worked.

There were definitely moments where we'd have to say: "Ok now don't get mad but...I wanna write a f***-you song...about you". It brought humor and emotional release to a shit*y situation; it's probably the reason we are still so close today. 

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Is Los Angeles a city you feel free and liberated in? How inspiring is the music and people from the area?

Los Angeles is really growing on me as a city. When I first moved here, there was an element of fear attached to it: this is the first time I've lived on the West Coast, so it has been a transition. But, I really love L.A. It's such a creative and motivating city to be in and I really love that about it. The music scene in L.A. is amazing - I'm a big fan of L.A.-based band HAIM!

Was your time at Berklee College of Music a big reason you are writing your own stuff and looking ahead?

Yeah, for sure; that was always the plan. I studied Musical Theatre prior to going to Berklee so, when I decided that what I really wanted was a career as an artist, it made a lot of sense to go to a school where I would have the opportunity to meet and collaborate with so many talented people in the same industry. I'm so fortunate to have had the chance to study there: a majority of my network out in L.A. is from Berklee. 

If you could pick any musician to have a party with; one to date and another to go to the movies with...who would they be?

Impossible question but here goes nothin'….

Rihanna to party with because, duh, it's Rihanna! I think it would be fun to date Harry Styles (if I didn't say that fifteen-year-old me would be mad) and I would die to go to the movies with or just hang out with John Mayer - I live for his Instagram and I feel like he'd have some great movie commentary. 

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Will there be any live dates coming up? Where can we catch you perform?

I will be playing my first show in Toronto on October 4th at the Revival! Super-excited to be playing at home. I will have more dates soon so keep a look out (smiles).

Might we see you in the U.K. at all? Do you like British music?

100%. My producer is from London and I've been a handful of times. One of my favourite cities! I’m a big fan of British music: I love Lianne La Havas, Jorja Smith and Cosha. I'll be over to play as soon as possible!

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

Loads. Haha. I'm working on some singles – post-release of my E.P. I'm-super excited to share the E.P. but I'm also really pumped about what will come after! I would just love to get as much of my music out as possible!

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

I do, actually. When I was eighteen, I was on a show called Over the Rainbow - it was a show started by the BBC with Andrew Lloyd Webber that they brought to CBC in Canada. I was fortunate enough to be cast in the show and I remember the first live show we did. All ten of us girls were lined up on the stage waiting for the show to air and for us to do our first number. I remember standing on the stairs with our backs to the audience in our Dorothy dresses.

We each had mics on us and in-ear monitors so we could hear each other but the audience couldn't hear us. We were all equally so nervous but excited to turn around for the first time and perform to a studio audience on live T.V. - and to our families, who we hadn't seen for over a month. It was a lot of "Love you all", "Let’s do this!"; "Here we go ladies". It was a really exciting moment kind of this big reveal which, in a way, is how I feel now about releasing my first E.P. All the work and hours…and now its time to share it! 

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

Great question…

Tapestry - Carole King 

The first album I fell in love with. 

Blood - Lianne La Havas

This album is a story start to finish for me. I recommend listening to it somewhere quiet with some candles or just in the dark (Ha. A little dark but it’s perfect).

Sound & Color - Alabama Shakes

Sonically, one of the best things I have heard. 

I'm not a huge Country fan but, at the moment, I am addicted to Kacey Musgraves’ Golden Hour - summer jams. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just do you and let's hang. Haha. I feel like I'm still a new artist coming through and I think one of the things that give me some piece of mind is surrounding myself with artists and creators who are driven and passionate about what they're doing! 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Charlotte Day Wilson

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There's a girl from Toronto that is killllin' it named Charlotte Day Wilson. Big fan, check her out!

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

Not as much recently but I'm a sucker for some wine and hanging with friends. If I have more time, I really love being around my family - we are really close - and skiing. I grew up racing and there's something so freeing about it for me. 

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 hear Bladerunnin’ by Cosha!

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INTERVIEW: Alluri

INTERVIEW:

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Alluri

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IT has been amazing speaking with Alluri…

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about his new single, Don’t Lose Touch, and how he came to work with Glen Matlock. He explains how the former Sex Pistol found his work and whether they will work together again; what sort of gigs are coming up – Alluri tells me about a cool Spotify playlist that has come to mind.

I ask when music came into his life and what sort of material might come in the future; how he spends his moments away from music; whether there are any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year – he talks about his Indian heritage and bringing that into his music.

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

Been good. Thanks for asking. My week has been less busy than the last one. Perhaps some songwriting is in order

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

I am bloke from Hyderabad in South India who fell in love with Rock ‘n’ Roll music. After my first album, Man of Truth, I had a crisis of identity and ended up recording my second album in Telugu, my native language, which is due to be released in its entirety in August of this year.

Don’t Lose Touch is your new single. What is the tale behind it?

I wrote this song in December 2016 with a friend. I was out of love with songwriting and I had to force myself to write this song. I am happy with what turned out.

Glen Matlock produces the song. How did you come to meet him?! Was it intimidating having a Sex Pistol in the studio?!

I was at home with my niece and nephew in November last year. I was playing the guitar one morning. On stopping my practice, my sister forced me to continue as my nephew had just woken up. I wasn’t too keen on playing so I thought I would scare him away by playing an acoustic version of Anarchy in the U.K. To my surprise, he started dancing instead. So, I decided to cover that for my gig at Transmusicales in Rennes.

A YouTube link to this half-Telugu, half-English cover of the song was sent to him via Twitter by my manager. Glen loved it and retweeted it. After this, he was sent a demo to Don’t Lose Touch which he liked so he ended up producing the song. We recorded it in Milan with Tommaso Colliva who had worked with me on my Telugu album. It was a fun process. It wasn’t intimidating.  He was very cordial and easy to work with. In fact, after the first day in the studio, he asked me if he was too bossy. I said: “You are alright, Glen! If anybody can be bossy, you certainly have earned the right to be so”.

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Do you two have plans to work together again? What did Matlock bring to your music?

We will be playing a gig in India on 1st August. He is coming over to India for the first time. Should be fun. In regards my music; he got a great bassline and a harder edge to the song by making the most subtle of changes. Perhaps we will record an album together. Who the hell knows!

What plans are there for more material? Are you working on stuff at the moment?

My identity crisis is done so I am back to writing songs in English. I have just finished recording three new songs with producer Adrian Hall in Surrey. These are new songs that I had finished writing in Jan this year. Essentially, I am working towards my third album so there will be some E.P.s on the way before that.

Do you recall when music came into your life? Were you raised around a lot of musical stimuli?

My father in his youth in the '80s in India used to be an ardent listener of BBC Worldwide radio. So, by the time I was born, he ended up buying C.D.s of Classical music, John Lennon; Tears for Fears and Elton John. He, in fact, forced me into learning Western classical violin and piano at age four, which I didn’t take to very well.

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Having been raised in India; do you take any elements from the music and people into your current music?

Musically, the sense of rhythm, at times, can be influenced by Indian music. Apart from that, the lyrics are written from the perspective of a well-travelled Indian man.

Will there be any live dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

I will be playing a gig in August in Mumbai and Hyderabad to promote my Telugu album. Of course, Glen Matlock is coming over for the Mumbai gig. Apart from this, if things go as planned, there will be gigs later in the year in England and Europe

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

To write about thirty more songs and do demos for them. Essentially, focus on songwriting for the third album.

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

Nothing really comes to mind - played a gig last week in London which Glen Matlock came to. So, watching him bob his head to my half-Telugu, half-English cover of Anarchy in the U.K. was pretty special.

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

I am the proudest of my Telugu album. But, currently, the third album is what means most to me as I am in the process of writing it.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Focus on the songwriting.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The music used on this documentary called Wild Wild Country has been a revelation to me. There is a Spotify playlist. I have been listening to that incessantly over the last few months. Great music and great new artists I found there.

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

Cricket and cooking.

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

Green Point Reprise by Jim Jones and the Righteous Mind. Came out a couple of months ago. Cheers!

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Follow Alluri

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INTERVIEW: James Francis

INTERVIEW:

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James Francis

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THE man has had a busy past couple of months…

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what with performing at the Royal Wedding and promoting his new single, Free to Be Me! I ask James Francis what it was like singing on that big day and the inspiration behind his latest tune; whether there is more material coming down the line – Francis talks about his faith and how Gospel resonates in him.

I ask whether there is a new artist we need to check out and whether he gets time to detach away from music; which albums are important to him; if there are going to be touring dates approaching – he gives some useful advice for upcoming songwriters.

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

My first single, Want It All, says a lot about who I am. I'm an ambitious creative who wants it all – a great career full of good music and amazing experiences! My music is a fusion of Soul, Hip-Hop and R&B. I can't say it fits neatly into any one of those genres because I love to experiment and push creative boundaries.

Free to Be Me is my second release and also speaks volumes about who I am. Whether it’s the colour of my skin, the area I grew up in or my faith; people have always tried to box me into some sort of stereotype. Free to Be Me is my way of responding to that: I feel it's important that we can feel good about ourselves and celebrate our identity.

The video for Free to Be Me is out. What was it like making the video? What is the story behind the song?

Making the video was a lot of fun. The video director, Chalky, was great and had a lot of good ideas for me to work with. As it was a public road, we filmed very early in the morning when I could play about more and not be disrupted by cars and passers-by etc.

Is there more material coming along? Are you working on anything else?

Yes. I'm working on another single and an E.P. As well as an artist, I'm a songwriter at heart so I'm always experimenting and creating new material.

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When did music come into your life? Do you remember which artists captured your imagination?

When I was growing up, singers like Luther Vandross and Stevie Wonder inspired me to sing. It wasn't until my mid-teens that I started taking it seriously and joined the Aria Vocal Academy, started by the late Eugene Johnson 

It seems like Gospel and Soul are important. Do you consider yourself to be spiritual and have a religious side?

Yes. I am a Christian; my values and faith are grounded in that. Although, I wouldn’t say my music is strictly Gospel: the content is based on my view of life which is seen through a Christian lens.

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What was it like performing for the Kingdom Choir at the Royal Wedding last month?! What was the day like?

I love being a part of the Kingdom Choir. We’re such a great bunch of friends that we have almost become like family. To have had the privilege of singing at the Royal Wedding in such great company was amazing. We got driven to Windsor by police escort and, even though we arrived super-early, the atmosphere was already full of excitement and celebration when we got there.

What you didn’t get to see on T.V. was us singing as the Royals were leaving the church. All the celebrities were clapping along as we belted out This Little Light of Mine. It is definitely an experience I will never forget.

The rendition of Stand By Me reached number-seven in the iTunes Charts. Was that quite an intense and unexpected moment?!

Most definitely. Our focus was to do you a great job for the Royals and make their day special. We had no ambition of entering the charts. So, when it happened, it was a really nice surprise. We truly feel blessed by the response we’ve had.

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

The best place to see me sing at the moment is online. On my YouTube channel, you’ll find links to my official music videos and some acoustic versions too. I don’t have any events lined up at the moment but you can sign up to the mailing list on my website to make sure you’re one of the first to know when dates are announced.

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

There are exciting things lined up for both my solo career and my work in the Kingdom Choir which include travel and performances at some significant venues. By the end of the year, I at least hope to have stamped a good few pages in my passport!

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

Singing at the Royal Wedding will definitely be a memory I’ll never forget and a story I will pass on to my children for years to come.

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

Michael Jackson - Thriller

Stevie Wonder - Songs in the Key of Life

Musiq Soulchild - Aijuswanaseing 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Definitely, focus on creating the best music you can.  It’s not about copying other people or trying to fit into the latest trend. Put your own mark on the music industry and don’t be afraid to be different.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Sharlene-Monique

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sharlene-Monique is a great new artist who is also a part of the Kingdom Choir. She has a unique, soulful jazzy voice and her new E.P., Destiny, is definitely one to download.

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

My wife and I recently had a baby boy; so much of my chill time at the moment is taken up with changing nappies and keeping him entertained. When there is a little quiet time we like watching movies.

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

One of my favorites at the moment is Get You by Daniel Ceasar (ft. Kali Uchis). It’s my go to song when I want to chill and relax.

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INTERVIEW: Danielle Lewis

INTERVIEW:

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Danielle Lewis

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TAKING us through a peaceful Sunday…

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is Danielle Lewis, who speaks to me about her upcoming E.P., Live Forever. I wanted to know what inspired the work and how she got Cian Ciaran to remix the title cut. She tells me about the music she grew up around what sort of gigs we can expect in the future.

Lewis shares three albums that have impacted her and a favourite memory from music; what she wants to get accomplished before the end of 2018 – she recommends a new act we need to keep our eyes open for.

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

Hello. I’m great, thank you. Rehearsing the live set with my wonderful band this week; ready for the release of my new E.P., Live Forever.

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

I’m a contemporary Folk artist from West Wales and just started my record label, Red Robin Records, where I’ll be releasing my new music this summer.

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Live Forever, your new E.P., is out on 6th July. How does it feel having it recorded and ready to go?!

It feels surreal - but extremely grateful and excited. I’ve been working on these songs over a couple of years and took time out to evolve and grow at my own pace. I was very lucky to have met my producer Secondson, who’s been a wonderful mentor to me. He knew exactly what I wanted to create and gave my songs so much dignity.

Are there particular stories and moments from your life that go into the songs? Do you have a personal favourite from the set?

Each song I write always has an element of my personal past experiences; emotions I still feel and how I’m changing and growing in the present. I feel like a layer comes off every time. Live Forever holds a personal pain and a desire to be a better person (and have better people around me).

The eponymous track seems to be a bit of a standout. Is it true Cian Ciaran is remixing the track?!

Yes, definitely! My producer introduced me to him and he loved everything he heard. I’m excited about our collaboration. He’s an incredible musician and producer and will, no doubt, add even more depth to this track.

How did music arrive in your life? Which C.D.s and albums might we have found on your childhood floor?

Singing came naturally for me from a very young age: it was a craving to be on stage. I grew up listening to a mix of music, but my mother’s Country tapes and brother’s film soundtrack C.D.s stood out. The raw lyrics and epic orchestral backdrops must have instilled in me. If I have to name something, it’s Townes Van Zandt.

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Your voice is especially striking. Does it take a lot of training to get that sort of power and range?!

Thank you. I’ve only ever learnt from time and experience in how best to look after my voice and what suits me. I don’t like to push it out very loud and would rather focus on control and tone.

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

There will definitely be some live dates on the way. Make sure you keep up to date via my website and Facebook.

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If we came to see you live; what sort of set might we experience? Is the stage somewhere you love to be?

Performing is where it’s at for me. I like intimate spaces and I like big halls, so who knows. You’ll have to come and witness it for yourself. Ha!

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

Just to bring out this record - that I’m so pleased with - and take it on the road. I’m already writing new stuff, too.

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

I was introduced to living legend Tom Paxton at Folk Alliance International in Kansas City in February. There was a large crowd forming around us at the time taking photos and watching. He heard my new music then kissed me on the head. He was blown away and that was a lovely memory.

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

Linda Perhacs – Parallelograms; Cocteau Twins - Heaven or Las Vegas and Townes Van Zandt - Delta Momma Blues.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Take your time. Take your time to find your strength as an artist; whether it’s in the voice, writing or playing (and build on that). Be gracious and say ‘no’ sometimes.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Pageants

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Pageants.

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

I always make time to walk in nature or by the seaside on daily basis. It’s definitely part of the job.

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).

Townes Van Zandt (ft. Calvin Russell) - Waiting Around to Die.

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Follow Danielle Lewis

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INTERVIEW: Adam Lanceley

INTERVIEW:

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Adam Lanceley

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I rarely have the chance to speak with artists…

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who have undergone trauma and come out the other side with huge positivity. Adam Lanceley suffered an horrific car accident as a child and was told he wouldn’t survive. Not only is he still with us but he is making exceptional music – I talk to him about the new track, The Train’s Gone, and his album, Epitaph to Innocence.

Lanceley talks about his love of The Beach Boys and what music means to him; whether he has any ambitions to fulfil before the end of this year; where we can catch him performing – he ends the interview by selecting a rather ace song!

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Hey, Adam. How are you? Can you introduce yourself, please?

Hello, readers and music fans! My name’s Adam Lanceley and I’m a singer-songwriter.

What can you tell me about the track, The Train’s Gone? What is the story behind it?

The first single from my seventh album, Epitaph to Innocence, is called The Train’s Gone. Unlike the other tunes on the album, this one and the final song, A Lover Like You, were written and recorded a few years ago in a different studio. I always think rather than explain to people what your songs are about; it makes them far more interesting if you keep a little bit of mystery behind them and let the listener decide what they think it means – so, check it out!

The song is from the album, Epitaph to Innocence. How did the album come together? How does it compare to your earliest stuff?

In this album, I hope you’ll be able to notice a progression in both the production and delivery - if you compare it to my earlier stuff. I am very keen on exploring new sounds and use of instruments to keep my music fresh.

Can you reveal what sort of music you respond to? What sounds did you grow up around?

It would be a lie to say that I’ve always been passionate about music. My taste, though, has always been ‘old-skool’ – going back to Roy Orbison and Elvis Presley. It was when I first heard The Beach Boys that my interest in music – particularly, my love for 1960s' West Coast music started to increase. I fell in love with their harmonies and brand of easy, feelgood music.  I used to love listening to stories about the California music scene from a close family friend who used to live with and drum for Sonny & Cher! Pretty cool, hey – in fact, he was even the percussionist on their smash hit I Got You Babe!

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You were involved in a car crash when you were ten. Can you tell me about it and what impact that had on your life?!

When I was ten, I had a severe car crash which I was not expected to recover from. Other people will tell me what an amazing recovery I’ve made but, to be honest, I don’t really think about it like that. When I get more reflective, though, I’m very grateful to have been able to have got where I am today - writing and playing my music.

How important is music to you? Is it a sort of therapy?

Music has always been both powerful and helpful to me in dealing with things life’s thrown at me.

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Have you got any tour dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

I haven’t got any tour dates planned at the moment, but I’ve got to get back into the London live music scene when I’ve dealt with a few issues; so, put your head around the door of the 12 Bar Club or The Fighting Cocks - or any of the cool venues and maybe I’ll be playing there!

Do you get chance to unwind away from music? How do you spend your free time?

For some people, sport is the most important force in life: for others, it’s something else entirely. For me, it’s definitely music.

What ambitions do you have to fulfil before the end of the year?

As far as ambitions go, I try not to get too carried away with them. I put enough pressure on myself anyway! I am going to try to start performing live again before the end of the year, though.

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What have been your fondest memories from your time in music?

Some of the most memorable times I’ve had have come from my time in music. Some of the outrageous situations I’ve found myself in the studio still make me laugh to myself! I don’t think they’d look very good in print, though! Hearing The Beach Boys perform live at Wembley Arena on their 50th Anniversary World Tour would have to be right up there as well.

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

The three albums that mean the most to me, I would say, would have to be really thought-provoking, reflective ones: Pet Sounds (The Beach Boys), Bridge Over Troubled Water (Simon & Garfunkel) and Hotel California (Eagles).

What advice would you offer new songwriters coming through?

The advice I’d give to new artists coming through would be: if you don’t really love music do something else, because it’s hard work. But, if you do, then stick at it because there’s no more powerful vehicle.

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Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

I couldn’t tell you what new artists you should check out because I’ve been so busy recording this album lately. BUT, THEY ARE OUT THERE! Go and check out the venues near you!

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

When I want to relax away from music, I tend to work out VERY HARD! It’s worth it for the endorphin rush!

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can select a song to end with and I'll play it here.

The song I would request is God Only Knows by The Beach Boys

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Follow Adam Lanceley

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INTERVIEW: Me for Queen

INTERVIEW:

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Me for Queen

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THE music Me for Queen is putting out there…

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differs from anything I have heard! I have been speaking with her about the latest track, Loose End, and what its story is. She has been discussing her PledgeMusic campaign and funding the album of the same name.

I was eager to know which albums have influenced her most and what it was like recording in Portugal; how London affects her songwriting and outlook; whether female artists are seen as unequal and warrant more focus; whether she gets time to chill – the songwriter recommends some artists we should get our ears around.

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Hi, Me for Queen. How are you? How has your week been?

Lovely, thanks! I’m just back from nearly a month in Germany and am enjoying some time at home…

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

Sure. I am a singer-songwriter and purveyor of ‘Soul-Folk’. I used to say ‘piano-led’ but the last two singles have been guitar-led so…

What can you reveal about the song, Loose End? What is the story behind it?

I wrote the song having thought I'd finished the album! Last in, first out…

I was just messing around on the guitar one afternoon then started singing the chorus then, about half an hour later, had finished it. I tried not to overthink it. Then, once I'd made a rough demo at home with drums/some backing, I really felt good about it and was singing it over and over again...so sent it on to Jim, my producer, then we booked an extra day to track it! Lyrically, it really seemed to pull together a load of things on the album as well; really satisfyingly and, basically, by accident, so I suddenly realised maybe I had an album title in there too...

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I was thinking about the Desiderata poem, for some reason, as well as this general time in life where I find myself and a lot of friends having the same conversations. It’s easy to sit fretting about what direction you’re headed in/whether you’re on the right track in whatever walk of life. Having left London and a ‘proper’ job, even though I’m far away from friends and family, I strangely feel more available, emotionally – and this song is sort of reaching out to anyone that is in that fretting space (myself included!). It’s about trusting that if you carve out a bit of space in your life to let your mind noodle, even if it feels scary, that is often where the good stuff lies.

It is taken from the album of the same name. I know it is being funded through PledgeMusic. What has the response been like to the campaign?

Great, so far! We’re nearly at 40% (at the time of this interview) and it will be open up until and probably beyond the album release in September. This is my third PledgeMusic campaign and they’ve all felt quite different but, every time, I’m amazed at the way PledgeMusic has found a place where patrons of independent music can find artists to support. I think it’s such a great resource.

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The songs were written back in Portugal. Does hearing the songs make you think of your roots and your family?

Just to be clear: I’m from Scotland, not Portugal! The adventure to Porto has been an experiment - we wanted to learn a new language and try something totally different for a while, with no distractions, and, a year later, here I am with an album!

How does London affect you as a songwriter? Is it a great city in terms of influence?

I loved living in London, but I feel like I can appreciate it more now that I’m no longer based there full-time. It’s such a buzzy place: you can’t not be inspired by it in some way. The record that feels most London-centric is probably Iron Horse, which is definitely set in a city (it’s a concept album about cycling) and I really like that. It feels part of a very distinct time and place.

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Many sites and stations are celebrating female artists and putting them in the spotlight. Do you feel like female artists are overlooked and need to shout louder to get attention?

Yes! In all sorts of ways, it still feels unequal. I’m glad at least it’s getting some more air-time with more public discussions - for example, recently, regards festival line-ups. I look forward to the day when I’m not described as a ‘female artist’ but maybe, for now, quotas are the only way forward…especially in an industry where so many of these decisions are being made by men; quite often, unconsciously. We all do it!

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Which musicians do you count as idols? Were you raised around a lot of different sounds?

At home, my dad would listen to and play lots of Blues stuff like Muddy Waters, Big Bill Broonzy...but there was a real mix. Through learning Classical piano and cello I listened to a real range of things; my parents were great at taking us out to see live music as much as possible. My brother introduced me to Jeff Buckley in my late-teens and that was an album I became quite obsessed with (Grace).

Also; I remember a friend from orchestra camp (yes, I was extremely cool) playing me the Lauryn Hill album (The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill) when I was thirteen and I was totally captivated. That led me to people like Aaliyah, Jill Scott/a more ‘R&B’ tip. So, yes, it was a pretty eclectic diet which continues to this day – I think it’s important to listen to as wide a range of stuff as possible.

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

Yes! I’ll be playing a London show on 30th July supporting Tusks at the Camden Assembly as part of the Warchild concert series. Then, I’ll be touring the U.K. in September, finishing at 1000 Island in London on 3rd October.

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

My ambition last year was to tour Germany, which has happened this year, so I’m pretty pleased about that. I’m so proud of the album - I’m just looking forward to the tour and giving the record the best launch possible!

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

Oooh; I have lots - from over twenty years of performing (I started young…). In terms of life-changing musical moments, the songwriting workshop I did with Gretchen Peters two summers ago is pretty high up there. I talk about it a lot. But, it really was a total game-changer for me as an artist and as a person! I’m normally sceptical about these things but I did genuinely have a vision coming out of that – like a semi-religious experience. It was extraordinary and just came at exactly the right time; inspiring me to just keep on trucking. I know this all sounds slightly insane but that’s what happened.

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

Björk – Post

Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

Jeff Buckley - Grace

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep writing. Write and write and write. Be as hungry as you can whilst not letting anyone take the piss. Play as much as you can. Work hard and get out there and meet people.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I don’t know what classifies as a ‘new’ artist. I love listening to the Fresh on the Net stuff, where I was lucky enough to be featured recently - there is SO much good stuff out there that doesn’t get enough airtime. Neither of them is ‘new’ but, this week, MELLAH and Kirsty Merryn sounded just brilliant on Tom Robinson’s most-recent mixtape.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Kirsty Merryn

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

Music is quite all-encompassing, particularly if you are an independent artist. I’m currently in the middle of a promotion-heavy cycle with the PledgeMusic campaign having now launched - and with a single to promote, and tours to book; all of which I do myself. But, switching off and/or hiding my phone down the back of the sofa and reading a book is a good start. Or going for a swim.

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

I recently discovered Will Stratton, an American artist who releases through Bella Union. My producer, Jim Wallis, has worked with him on his new record and I happened to catch his Celtic Connections show earlier this year and have since become completely obsessed with his song, Some Ride. I just think it’s so beautifully simple and eloquent.

At the peak of my obsession, I was listening to it around five times a day… 

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Follow Me for Queen

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INTERVIEW: Anna Aaron

INTERVIEW:

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Anna Aaron

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FROM a couple of U.S. artists…

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I am hopping over to Switzerland to speak with Anna Aaron. She has been telling me about the single, Why Not, and whether there is going to be an E.P./more singles coming before the end of this year – I was interested to know what sort of music and sounds inspire her own.

Aaron talks about meeting Sophie Hunger and its impact; what the scene is like in Switzerland at the moment; whether there are gigs coming up; which new acts we should be aware of – she tells me whether there is any time to relax away from music.

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

Hi! I'm great, thanks; I hope you are too. We released a new song on Friday and the video for it is coming next - so it's been a busy week but it's going great.

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

My new album is about my childhood which I spent with my family in Asia. I tried to find out which parts of my imagination and inner-images are influenced by those memories and to somehow translate it all into songs. It's like building a dream-world, because it's not inspired by the actual thing it refers to but by the thing as it exists in your personal memory. To explore those fields, musically, can be very interesting.

What is the story behind Why Not? How did it start its life?

Why Not was one of the first songs I recorded at home alone. I was working on the new album with my brother in his studio but continued writing new material parallel to that. I never really meant to share the song because I thought the lyrics made me too vulnerable emotionally but, at some point, it leaked out to a few of my friends and I realized it seemed to touch a nerve so I finally decided to get it mastered and it ended up on the album.

Is there going to be more material coming this year? What are you working on?

Yes. There is a lot more material coming. We will release two more singles before the end of the year - then the album - and then I'll probably just continue releasing songs because I've been writing a lot.

You are a Swiss musician. Is there a big music industry in the country? How easy is it getting noticed?!

I think, among other musicians, it's not so hard to get noticed because the community is very enthusiastic and supportive - and everyone is interested in what everyone else is doing, which is nice. However; I guess I'm referring to more of an underground scene here. The ‘official’ music industry is a different story. If your sound is a little more uncompromising or adventurous it's next-to-impossible to get airplay, for example. Switzerland is so small it gets swallowed – we just listen to what's big in the neighbouring countries or in the U.S.A.

Tell me how you came to meet Sophie Hunger – one of the first people to really connect with your music. How important is she to your success?

I was recording demos on my mother's computer and uploading them to the internet. One day, Sophie Hunger found them and I still vividly remember the sentence she wrote on my page: “Ich verspüre das Bedürfnis diese Musik aufzuessen”, which means “I feel the urge to eat this music”. She was not yet as internationally known as she is today but was becoming an underground cult celebrity in Zürich so, obviously, I kind of lost it when I saw she had been listening to my songs.

She introduced me to her management a few months later and they offered me a contract. Sophie lives in Berlin now and is releasing a new album soon. She still means a lot to me.

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What sort of music did you grow up around? Was there a specific point where you knew music was what you wanted to do?

I think the point when I achieved the self-confidence to call myself a musician was when I realized my work was developing a life of its own and it was leading me somewhere. It suddenly became this firm, stable thing that I felt I was able to lean on. I knew from then on it was good enough and real enough to always support my personal identity.

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

My drummer and I are preparing to play some shows in Switzerland and Germany till the end of the year and the full tour will start when the album is out.

Might you come and play over in the U.K. at all?

I definitely hope so!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I'm teaching myself to become better at producing so hopefully I can make some progress this year and finally become a professional nerd.

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

My favourite memories related to touring and recording are the funny ones – for example; I sometimes still laugh at the jokes we made with David Kosten and Ben Christophers when we were working on my second album. They have a silly and ridiculous humor; I was literally crying with laughter at times. Or, one night in the Czech Republic our tour bus was extremely dusty from the road and, when we came back to it after the show, someone had written on the windshield with their finger: ‘I wish my wife was this dirty’. It's the silly little memories that stick.

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

Agape – Agape/Love – Love by Popol Vuh; Loveless by My Bloody Valentine and In the Aeroplane Over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Try to teach yourself as much as possible; it's so easy nowadays with the Internet. Your sound will retain so much more of its purity if you shape it on your own as far as you possibly can.

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IMAGE CREDIT: HEX

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently heard a band play live that blew my mind; they're called HEX and they're from Geneva. ASBEST, another band whom I love, was also playing at the same festival. They recorded their debut album in the U.K. a few weeks ago.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Emilie Zoé

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

I have never-ending to-do lists at the moment so the times I actually get to sit down and focus on music really feel like getting to be alone and do what I want. I don't feel the need to unwind from music. When I come home from touring, though, I just sleep for three days.

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

Thanks! My friend Odd Beholder's song, Coins! “If you wish upon a well/you cannot drink the water”

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Follow Anna Aaron

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INTERVIEW: Alex Riddle

INTERVIEW:

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Alex Riddle

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BASED out of Houston, Texas…

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Alex Riddle is in a great place to get his terrific music heard and appreciated. He tells me about his upcoming E.P., Snow White, and which song from the collection stands out from the rest – he tells me about being compared to the likes of Jeff Buckley and The National.

Riddle chooses some new artists to get excited about; which albums are important to him; if there are any gigs booked in the diary at the moment; whether we will see him in Britain anytime soon – he ends the interview by selecting an incredible Bob Dylan cover.

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

Great, thank you.

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

I’m a singer/songwriter from Texas. My music tends toward the eclectic but people regularly bring up names like Jeff Buckley and The National when they hear me. I am happy with those comparisons.

Snow White is your new E.P. What sort of themes inspired the songs on the E.P.?

Oh, you know, the classic ones: life and death; war and peace; crime and punishment. 

Is there a song from Snow White you would select as a highlight?

Probably Snow White, the song. It has great performances from the band and a pretty catchy chorus to boot - which I hear the kids are into these days.

How do songs come together for you? Do you set time to write or do you wait for inspiration to hit?

Where do I get my ideas? There’s not one way they happen...

Sometimes a song will hit me all at once. Sometimes I’ll finish writing it months, even years, after the initial inspiration hit.

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Which artists do you count as influences? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

My influences are all over the place: I don’t try to emulate anybody in particular. What I do, really, is whenever I hear something that really grabs me, I try to figure out what it is about that thing - whether it’s a chord change or a vocal riff - that has that effect on me. I guess you could say that’s my principle for taking in influences.

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You are based out of Houston, Texas. What is the music scene like there at the moment?

Houston has tons of talent, but it’s spread over too great an area. The sprawl is aggressive and it affects the culture. 

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

With any luck, I’ll hit the road for a bit after I release the album that I’m currently working on.

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

I would love to come to the U.K. - have somebody from the U.K. gimme a call.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

A full-length album is in the works. I’m very excited about those tunes. 

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

Playing House of Blues for a music festival in Houston was very fun. I’d been going to concerts there since I was a teenager. It was a trip playing the same stage where I’d seen people from B.B. King to St. Vincent.

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

Chris Whitley and Jeff Lang — Dislocation Blues

The Eastern Sea — Plague

Joanna Newsom — Ys

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Play out of town at regular intervals - not just every now and then.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Buck Meek

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Check out Buck Meek’s new solo record (he’s the guitarist from Big Thief and a fellow Texan).

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

I read Trump’s tweets. There’s just something very soothing about them.

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 a tune from one of those albums above?

Chris Whitley and Jeff Lang - Changing of the Guard

This is actually a cover of a much-overlooked song from Bob Dylan’s 1978 album, Street Legal. Chris Whitley and Jeff Lang give Dylan’s rocker a subdued urgency which, to my mind, captures the true spirit of the song. Frankly; everyone should know about Changing of the Guard

Honorable mention: The Eastern Sea - Wasn’t for Love

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Follow Alex Riddle

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INTERVIEW: Kris Angelis

INTERVIEW:

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Kris Angelis

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THE majestic Kris Angelis has been telling me…

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about her incredible single, Photobooth, and whether there is more material coming later in the year. The American songwriter talks about music arriving in her life and how she spends her free space and time; whether awards and plaudits (she has received) propel and influence her – she discusses gigs and whether she’ll come to the U.K.

Angelis provides advice for new artists and talks about her acting work; whether there are some new acts we should keep abreast of; if there are any ambitions she wants to fulfil before the end of the year – she ends the interview with a rather cool choice.

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

Hi! I’m busy; busy trying to get everything done involved with putting out my new E.P. My week was fun. I went up to Seattle to film an interview and performance for a show called Band in Seattle. Everyone on the show was great and I used to spend a lot of time up there and lived in the area for about a year - so it was fun to be back and the weather was gorgeous!

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

Hello! I’m a Folk-Pop singer/songwriter. I was born in Gainesville, FL and spent my childhood on a farm outside the city with horses and cows and a bunch of my family all living on the farm! Then, we all moved to Carmel, CA where I started acting in plays and eventually moved to Los Angeles to pursue acting and music. I have a cat named Ilean because her adorable little head is always tilting a little left-of-center due to an ear infection when she was a kitten before I adopted her. I talk about what I like to do other than music later on.

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

It’s based on a fun night that I thought was finally going to be the beginning of something but it turned out to be the end. It’s about saving those moments and not letting them become tainted by how they turned out or ‘what could have been’. I thought it was an interesting and relatable concept how we can have such fully-formed emotions and imagined futures captured in a moment and then all that’s left is the photo.

It seems there is a personal edge and some emotional memories attached to the song. Was it hard putting the words together and casting your mind back?

Not really. I had thought about those images and memories a lot and had processed it so by the time I was forming them into a song; the lyrics came easily and it wasn’t emotionally hard to go there - especially because that song is more about the happy moments that were caught in the photobooth than the way it ended up.

How do you feel you’ve progressed as an artist since your beginning? Do you feel more confident now?

I absolutely feel more confident now! When I first started, I was terrified to co-write because I was afraid of what the other person would think and now I love co-writing. I still sometimes say things that don’t work - but so does the other person and that is why we co-write. Two minds can more quickly decide what works and what doesn’t and the things that don’t often lead to the great stuff! I also used to be so scared to sing in front of people. I would shake and barely be able to make a sound, so it still kind of amazes me that I do this! I’m not saying that I don’t still have insecurities or things I want to get better at (or try differently but that’s good).

 We need to feel some discomfort to grow.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @shilohstrong

Are you working on other material at the moment? Will we see more before the end of the year?

Yes! I actually just completed an E.P. that Photobooth is the first track on. It’s called Pieces That Were Stolen, and it’s set to come out on August 3rd. I’m also hoping to put out a Christmas E.P. and possibly another covers E.P. - but that might be at the beginning of next year.

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Your music has won awards and you are a celebrated songwriter. Does that recognition and plaudit drive you forward and keep you aiming high?

Yes! It definitely helps to have that outside encouragement and recognition. I’ve always aimed high but I think every little win makes you believe that the big ones are possible and, regardless of winning, you can learn a lot and get seen by more people from being part of competitions. Throwing your hat in the ring is a huge step and a win in itself.

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

I grew up listening to my parent’s records: The Beatles, the Eagles; The Platters, The Archies; Elton John, Nat King Cole; Garth Brooks and Classical like Strauss, Tchaikovsky and Mozart. Then, I started discovering music for myself and the biggest one that really launched my interested in learning harmonies and making music was Hanson. I’m still a fan and go to their shows when they come to L.A.! My bass player is actually their bass player now!

I also listened to Dave Matthews, Rufus Wainwright; David Gray, Queen, Elvis Presley; Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Monkees; Tom Petty and so many more that I’m going to kick myself for not mentioning - and then the other artist I discovered who was a huge catalyst for me in my own songwriting was Brandi Carlile. Since then, I also look up to Ingrid Michealson, Damian Rice; Ray LaMontagne, Katie Herzig; Gregory Alan Isakov, Regina Spektor; Rachel Platten, Rachael Yamagata and, most recently, Jeff Hahn to name a few.

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How does your acting work and performance skills mix and blend with your musical expression?

People have always told me that I’m very expressive on stage. I guess maybe I should watch videos of myself to see exactly what that looks like other than some pretty intense faces sometimes! I guess it’s probably due to a lot of training I went through with the Physical Theater Conservatory and company I’m an original member of, Not Man Apart. We did a lot of work on grounding and using your whole body. Also, I suppose, the experience of being on stage, telling stories and getting feelings across to an audience comes through when I’m singing as well.

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I try to just experience what the song is for me and connect with the audience and hopefully they feel it in whatever way it’s resonating with them. That’s what I love about music and songs: they can have so many meanings for different people and even for the same people at different times.

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

I will be on tour all over Germany, put on by Songs & Whispers, from August 21st to Sept 23rd. I am hoping and planning to do some touring in the U.S. before the end of the year and that is still in the planning stages.  Coming up, I have a couple of shows at Hahn Winery in Soledad, CA on July 1st and Aug 5th…and my big C.D. release/birthday show is on July 21st at the Hotel Cafe at 8 P.M.! You can get tickets for just $10 here.

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

I have played in the U.K. before at the Edinburgh Fringe festival and I really want to come back! I might be able to get over there after the Germany tour.

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

My goal is to sell out the Hotel Cafe show on July 21st and to get my E.P. on the Billboard Heatseeker Charts. I’m hoping to get a lot of pre-orders and downloads in the first week to make that happen! I also really want to go to Italy; just to go there and eat delicious pasta.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @shilohstrong

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

There are a lot of wonderful moments but some of my favorite times have been when I was busking at the Edinburgh Fringe festival with my twin sister. We sing melodic songs with harmonies and an acoustic guitar so, while most of the other performers could not do their shows in the rain, that was our golden time.

We would sit out along the wall of St. Giles Cathedral with an umbrella and I guess it just went with the environment of rain and lights shining off the wet pavement - and people would stop huddled under their umbrellas and listen. We had over fifty people gathered around in the rain sometimes. I couldn’t believe it! It felt magical and intimate and honest.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @shilohstrong

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

Oh, wow...that’s such a commitment!

Going along with the stories of the artists who influenced the sparking of my musical career the most, I guess I’d have to say the first albums I heard of those artists: Middle of Nowhere by Hanson and the Acoustic E.P. by Brandi Carlile (along with her eponymous debut album) Those were formative and I still love them! 

Is it weird if I say my own first album The Left Atrium for the third one? Since the question is which ones mean the most, that is true. That album was extremely personal and the first time I picked myself up and did all the planning; was very hands-on with the musical arrangements, promotion etc. and it was a huge personal accomplishment and a big step in my career.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write as much as you can - it doesn’t all have to be perfect and amazing.  Keep going. Try new things; be resourceful, persistent and polite. The ones who succeed are the ones who are left. Surround yourself with positive people who are doing what you want to do. Read and listen to music business books and podcasts.

Look up Ari Herstand’s book.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Paris Carney

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Crimson Calamity, Lyndzie Taylor; Paris Carney/O’Neil Hudson (she has two projects with different names and both are great!); Dree Mon; Jon Bryant. These are not NEW but if you haven’t heard of Gregory Alan Isakov, Katie Herzig or Jeff Hahn, you should!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Jon Bryant

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

I don’t know if it’s really unwinding because I get competitive (in a friendly way) but I love playing games with my family and friends. We play running charades, Pandemic Legacy and D&D. I just got the Game of Thrones Settlers of Catan which I’m very excited to play once I finish all the prep work for getting the E.P. out. I’m going to get a little break soon for 4th July (our Independence Day) and I’m going to go up to Northern California and breathe the fresh air; go to the beach, drink wine among the redwoods and laugh with friends.

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 I Was Born by Hanson. I think most people haven’t heard anything of theirs since Mmmbop and they’ve been making great music ever since then - with I Was Born coming out just last year. It’s my jam when I’m feeling like I want to take on the world and it would be awesome for other people to hear it and get uplifted, inspired and pumped too! (That or Muscadine (or Wine and Whiskey) by Jeff Hahn - so beautiful)

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Follow Kris Angelis

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INTERVIEW: NOIA

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Carlos Viani

NOIA

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I have been speaking with the talented Canadian duo…

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NOIA about their album, Maybe Forever. Ashley and Eduardo select their favourite songs from the record and tell me how they got together; what the music scene is like in Montréal is right now – they reveal touring plans and state whether a trip to the U.K. is a possibility.

The guys tell me about their D.I.Y. approach to music and what equipment they used to record Maybe Forever; if they get time to escape away from music; some new acts we need to get our ears around – they end the song by selecting some fine cuts.

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

Hi! It’s been great! We just played a really fun outdoor show and the day before we were interviewed by a local radio. Other than that; we've been enjoying the summer here in Montreal!

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

To quote our bio: “Part dance-rock, part electro-pop, Montreal indie duo NOIA is the fruit of the creative collusion between musicians Ashley Long and Eduardo Noya Schreus”.

Your L.P., Maybe Forever, is out. Are there particular themes that define the album? What was it like recording it?

For this specific album, there are no themes in particular that could be singled out. In terms of recording the album, it was a fun/hard and interesting process that took place over quite a few winter months. The vocal/guitar/bass recordings took about a week; then we spent another week in Miami mixing with our friend Reuven Amiel.

Do you each have favourite cuts from the record?

Eduardo: Save Yourself.

Ashley: A tie between Too Much Attention and Ding Ding.

I believe the album was a D.I.Y.-made thing where you took care of every stage. Can you describe the sort of equipment and spaces that brought the songs to life?

Both were crucial for the inspiration on this album. We started using hardware because Ed was feeling more and more turned off with D.A.W.s (digital audio workstations.) Our hardware consists of a sampler, a drum machine and three synths. The touch of real equipment and the learning process that accompanied it refreshed everything. The other 50% was getting a jam space, which allowed us to play very loud and actually feel the sound vibrations better.

To be standing up while creating makes a big difference in contrast to making music sitting down in front of a computer. We loved it so much that we began going every day! Even when other bands were scheduled, we would wait and go late at night.

How did NOIA get together? Ashley and Eduardo. When did you meet one another?

We met through a cat (haha!). This is how we always start the tale…

We had a mutual friend from whom Eduardo adopted a cat, the wonderful El Niño.  Ed mentioned he was interested in finding a female vocalist to go in a new direction with his project, which was solely instrumental at the time. She recommended me (Ashley) and it all took off from there. He contacted me and I immediately liked him and his music. We instantly clicked, played one of our first shows at Rojo Nova - a cultural festival in São Paulo, Brazil - and the rest is history!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Carlos Viani

Is Montreal a great area for creating music and finding influence?

Montreal is definitely an awesome place to make music. Finding influence is a bit harder when you want to broaden your scope because scenes are quite insular here but, if you really make the effort, you can find so many different kinds of music in this city.

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

We are actually going to start working on that very soon. We were very busy wrapping up everything for the release of this album: our first album! Ed has been focused on scoring music for a couple of French T.V. series (Versailles and Philharmonia), so we’ll hopefully get out on the road once he’s all wrapped up!

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

That would be amazing, especially since we have often been told that our music would fit well in the European music scene. We’ll let you know as soon as we confirm any U.K. shows. Can’t wait to play there in the near-future!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We’re working on writing and recording our next album which we hope to have ready for release later this year - and we’d like to play as many shows as possible because it’s so much fun!

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

One of our mutual favourite memories was an illegal show here in Montreal that was organized by good friends of ours. It was a huge rave in an abandoned city tunnel where hundreds of people were losing their minds (in a good way). Halfway through our set, people were so hectic we almost had our equipment knocked over. Haha! Everyone’s energy was amazing and the space was really, really cool. Soon after, we were voted Cult MTL’s #1 Best Electronic Act which we suspected (but still have no proof!) was a result of that show…

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

Eduardo: My friend Michael Lucas, an amazing drummer who currently plays in a Berlin-based band called Rabia Sorda, among others; Peruvian ceviche and San Pedro cactus.

Ashley: ALL OF MY AMAZING MUSICIAN FRIENDS!  Popcorn and mango lassi.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Believe in yourself! Never forget that it’s all about having fun AND mainly be genuine: don’t emulate anybody else’s music.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Our friends Gabriel Vigliensoni, Colin Jenkins; Dengue Dengue Dengue and, if you like video stuff, Justine Durand and Max Hattler.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Dengue Dengue Dengue

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

We do not unwind from music: Ed works on music scores during the day and we jam normally at night. Ashley is studying illustration among other things. In our free time, we love camping, travelling; bike trips, surfing and skateboarding!

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).

Ashley: Mort Garson - Baby's Tears Blues (I secretly call this ‘The Plant Detective’ in my head whenever I hear it. You’ll see why…)

Ed: Lou Miami - Dancing with Death

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INTERVIEW: Kasai

INTERVIEW:

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Kasai

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THIS weekend is a varied and interesting one…

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that is for damn sure! I have been getting to know Kasai better and ask about the extraordinary album, Guns to Shoot. They tell me about the album’s themes and how the songs came together; how the band themselves all found one another – I ask whether there are any gigs on the cards.

I learn which new artists we should seek out and whether, in the mind of Kasai, Rock and Alternative is healthy and making a comeback – the boys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

We are fine, thanks. A pretty good week working on a new batch of songs together at our bassist’s flat.

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

We are Kasai and we play genuine, old-school Rock ‘n’ Roll: so; a simple four-piece setup with screamy vocals….and the occasional, with much reluctance from Jay, second guitar on some songs.

Talk to me about Guns to Shoot. What are the themes and ideas that influenced the songs?

Mostly, personal stuff which is irrelevant to everyone else. We like the listener to make up his/her own theme or story to our songs.

Is there a cut you’d each select as a highlight from the record?

Benzo: We talked a lot about what is our favourite and, usually, we can’t agree. I think one track - which is little special touch for all of us - would be Run.

Jay: Mine would be Guns to Shoot, Rose and Run…

Jack: Yeah; Run - although I’m pretty happy with how most of them came out.

How did Kasai get together? When did that spark come?

When dinosaurs ruled the earth (circa 2003); Jack and Jay started Kasai (or ‘The Juice’ as we were previously known as). I think we both were (just) bored with our lives and the life choices we had made. But, we had ideas that we could make into songs. So, we hooked up, started a band and, many lineups later, we are Kasai - with Benzo and Rich.

Although…we could be a real-life version of Spinal Tap with our live music experiences (smiles).

How does a Kasai song come together? Do you all pitch in or do will someone take a song and bring it to the band?

It’s a bit of both, really.

Someone brings an idea which can be a short riff and then the band builds a song. Or, someone could bring in a 90%-ready song and we just put finishing touches to it. The discussions could be very zen and peaceful to a full-on heated argument about where a song should go. But, we enjoy it nonetheless - apart from when Jay sulks. Jay’s sulks can last for weeks.

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Usually, they are resolved when one of us buys him a lolly; ruffles his hair and tells him that we do still love him. He just needs to work on his behaviour, sometimes. He then wipes the snot from his nose; we have a cuddle, agree that Jack is right and move on.

Jay: I just want to say, I’m not happy with this response (sulks).

Do you think Hard-Rock and Alternative sounds are struggling right now? How do you stand out from the pack, would you say?!

If you’re not one of the big bands from the '80s and '90s then, yes, it’s really hard to get a crowd for yourself because the dynamic has changed. We think grass-roots live music is struggling generally as people don’t venture out too much - and we talk about this in our song, Get Out, which is the first track of the album.

How do we stand out? Honestly; we don’t do anything special. Our music is honest and that has taken us to the U.S., India (yes…you read that right) and to the Middle East to play shows. I hear we have some fans (maybe, one) in Japan, too. I think one of the things that have improved us over the years is focusing on enjoying what we are doing as much as possible. We all get lost in the music we play. We have a lot of respect for each other as musicians and jamming together is a bit like a mini holiday from all the boring stuff in life.

Once upon a time, we cared a lot more about how we looked, what our image was supposed to be; how to improve our stage presence etc. Retrospectively, we think giving a s*it about that stuff probably made us worse. It is much more fun now and we like to think that comes through in our music; particularly live.

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

We play in London normally and our next gig is at The Islington (in Angel) on 14th July. We are also excited to be playing the Big Red (Holloway Road) on 21st September with our mate Jamie Sloane’s (from Whisky Blood) band. We want to do a few festivals (if offered a last-minute slot) but we aim to play in the U.K. and some venues around Europe generally.

Is the stage where the music comes alive would you say? Do you all love the thrill of performing?

Definitely. I think there is a magic of playing live no matter what the genre. But, for us, playing live to a live audience is brilliant.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Some more exposure for our album, Guns to Shoot. I think we have a great album and the lack of exposure is a killer: it is, unfortunately, about ‘who you know’ rather than ‘what you can do’ in the industry.

Having said that…we’ve already started to work on our next project so this year is going to be exciting.

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

You don’t normally remember the best ones. Perhaps one was when some Dutch Osho Rajneeshs (yes, the Wild Wild Country ones) approached us when we did a gig in Pune, India (in 2009) saying we reminded them of Led Zeppelin and that we should play at The Ashram. We wanted to but we had another gig to play so we passed.

But, they came across as cool people.

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

Musicians we would love to support: we would say Clutch, Guns N’ Roses; Slash, Derek Trucks; Q.O.T.S.A. (Queens of the Stone Age), Foo Fighters and Led Zeppelin etc. etc.

Rider? Too long a list to type here - but most of it is for Jay…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

1)      Don’t do it to become famous – and…

2)      All members of your band should learn a DAW as it helps with the writing.

3)      Don’t be a c*nt. There really is no excuse.

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IN THIS PHOTO: BearWolves

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Two bands which are no more really: BearWolves and Bad Mother Earth. There was also an American band called Astro Van from Seattle, Washington. We played with when we were touring the West Coast and they were brilliant.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Bad Mother Earth

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

I Think music IS the chill away from life. Bence likes to stick his willy in a toaster while reciting The Lord’s Prayer. He says it focuses his 'chi' - the weird bastard.

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).

Jay: Down in the Flood - The Derek Trucks Band

Benzo: Touch My Blues Away (Live) - Jessy Martens and Band

Jack: Milkcow’s Calf Blues - Eric Clapton (awesome cover of an awesome song - play the original, too).

Rich: Grace - Jeff Buckley

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Jay: Can I just say, on behalf of the band, thank you, Sam, for your time in interviewing us. All of your readers can download our music for free for a limited time…

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