INTERVIEW: AKIVA

INTERVIEW:

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AKIVA

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WITH Donald Trump parking his orange backside…

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in the U.K. for a few days; it seems like a perfect time to speak with AKIVA about their new single, Ammunition. They talk about figures like Donald Trump and the impact they are having on the world; how the band got together and the sort of artists they are influenced by – I ask whether there will be gigs and more material before the end of the year.

AKIVA select a new act we should be looking out for; whether there is any chance to chill when not making music; which artist they’d support on tour given the chance; what advice they would offer upcoming acts – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Pretty special. We released our new single, Ammunition, and watched England get to their first World Cup semi-final in twenty-eight years. Doesn’t get much better than that!

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

We’re AKIVA. There are four of us and we’re from Bedfordshire. We’re into analogue synth. loops; drum-beats with a groove; rolling basslines; Stones-y guitar sounds and big choruses. Our sound was probably originally inspired by all that Electro-Indie crossover stuff that came out of the nineties: The Charlatans, Primal Scream; UNKLE; Black Grape; Doves; Stereo MC’s etc. – and, also more recently, the likes of The Horrors, Jamie T and Beyond the Wizards Sleeve. We’re also big fans of trying to use music to get a message across - particularly in the volatile climate we currently live in. 

We were recently described as ‘George Orwell-meets-The Killers’ - which is not far off.

The video for Ammunition is out. What was it like working with Wayne McCauslin on it? 

This is the second track we’ve worked on with Wayne and hopefully won’t be the last. He’s a real talent. We’re huge fans of his animation style. He totally gets our music and where we’re coming from and has the ability to take the messages we’re trying to convey in our songs to a whole new level with his visuals. He’s a real pleasure to work with and we feel very lucky to have crossed paths with him.

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The song is getting a lot of great feedback. How did it come together? Is there a story behind the track? 

Thanks. Yeah; this is actually quite an old song. We’ve been playing it live for a few years but never record it until now. It was originally inspired by the many hasty and disastrous military interventions made by the U.K. and U.S. the last ten to fifteen years: Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya; but it’s also a more general reflection on the international military conflict in general and how it rarely results in any positive outcomes. Unfortunately, with some of the lunatics we have in power at the moment, it feels like another one is not far away.

In a weird way; do twisted leaders like Donald Trump give you plenty of inspiration?! Are you ever surprised by what is happening in the world?!

There’s certainly plenty to write about at the moment! Yeah, Donald Trump is an imbecile (I’d like to see him in a room with De Niro) but I think he’s a symptom of a wider problem rather than a cause. There’s a worrying trend towards rising populism, nationalism and mistrust of others in all countries at the moment - and it wouldn’t surprise me at all to see it get stronger. As long as inequality continues to rise, which it shows every sign of doing, more people will find crazy populists with dangerous ideas appealing.

The current climate feels very much like what I imagine the period before the Second World War to be like. I often used to wonder how it was possible that someone like Adolf Hitler ever got elected to power but, having lived through the few years, I can see how it happened. It’s a worry.

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How did AKIVA come together? When did you all find one another? 

We all went to school together. Rob and Dave are brothers and were at junior-school with Malc. I moved down from the North and met the others at secondary-school. We started out by messing around with guitar riffs and trying to learn the odd cover that we could play to our mates in the school talent shows and stuff. In the sixth-form, we started to take it a bit more seriously and set up camp in Dave and Rob’s foam-plastered garage - much to the disappointment of their neighbours.

That’s when we formed the band properly. 

Is there going to be an album or E.P. coming from the band later in the year? 

Yes, there is. We have another single called Broken Ship which we’ll be releasing later this year as part of a four-track E.P. There’s a theme of conflict and political tension that runs through all the tracks on the E.P.

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Which artists do you take guidance from? Who do you all count as idols?

There’s a long list! We take guidance from anything we like, which is quite a lot. We love all the classic old stuff like The Rolling Stones, The Who; The Beatles, The Kinks – they laid the blueprint for male guitar bands and you can’t help but be influenced by them.

We’re also quite into Electronic music and were influenced by a lot of early-nineties Rave and Dance music and bands that took that feel and crossed it over into the guitar space like The Stone Roses and The Charlatans - as well as the likes of The Prodigy and Chemical Brothers. More recently, we’re big fans of The Horrors, Tame Impala and Everything Everything: three amazing bands with incredible layering and sonic detail in their tracks.

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What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018? 

Hopefully, to just get more people to hear our music and see our videos. We’re pretty proud of what we’ve created and we want as many people to hear it as possible.

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

We’ve been together as a four for a long time and we’re really tight mates. Some of my favourite memories are from the adventures we had when we were first starting out. I’ll never forget a time we hired a van for a gig in Greenwich and Rob, our bass player, was driving us all down (bass players always drive the van!).

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He crashed it into a massive concrete bollard as he tried to reverse-park into a tight space outside the gig venue. He then proceeded to grind the side panel backwards and forwards on the bollard whilst trying unsuccessfully to get it out. It just got worse and worse and we were pissing ourselves laughing.

For some reason, that one always sticks out in my mind. It just reminds me of a time feeling very free when nothing seemed to matter. That’s what I love about being involved with music – when it allows you to feel like that. 

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

I think it would have to be The Stone Roses. Us supporting them on a stage in Manchester and then joining them at the end of their set for I Am the Resurrection. I think I’ve had that dream about fifty times.

The rider would be sixty-eight lemons and eighty-nine tins of red, white; blue, black and gold paint. Maybe we’d throw it all over ourselves and the crowd in the encore for a great big, united; Jackson Pollock, paint-splattered psychedelic groove-out.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through? 

Be prepared to graft: put some serious hours in and just keep going. There’ll be times when it feels like nobody’s listening but don’t let it set you back, just keep on. Never stop trying to learn from the music you love and trying to refine and improve your art. The ultimate pleasure in it all comes from realising you’ve created something you didn’t think you were capable of.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching? 

Yeah. We’re playing at Pennfest on Friday, 20th July. We’re on the main stage at 2:45 P.M. It’s a pretty big gig for us. We’re on before The Bluetones - which is pretty special for us as we’ve always been big fans. I think we played a cover of Slight Return in our first-ever gig. We’re also playing The Finsbury in London on Saturday, 8th September.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Hookworms

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

One of my favourite bands at the moment is a band called Hookworms from Leeds. They’re incredible: full of sonic layers, bleeping analogue synths; Krautrock beats and howling vocals. Right up our street. I’ve not been able to see them live yet. They don’t tour much as they all also have full-time jobs (something we can identify with!). Their latest album, Microshift, is brilliant. Go and check it out.

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

Not really. We don’t tend to do much unwinding. In the age where all music is free, there’s not much money in it for smaller independent band like us (and Hookworms!); so you need another job to pay the bills. When we’re not working, we tend to work on the band, whether it’s rehearsing, writing; recording or working with visual artists on the graphics and videos. There’s never enough time.

I remember watching that Ian Curtis film, Control, and thinking how knackered he must have been in the scenes when he’s working full-time in a Macclesfield office before jumping in the car and driving down to play in London…then back up to Macclesfield for work again the next day. It can feel like that sometimes but it’s all good. Wouldn’t want it any other way.

Music’s a pretty addictive thing and I tend to spend most of my time thinking about it when I’m not doing it. Whenever you do get a break, it doesn’t take long before you want to dive straight back in.

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).

With pleasure. I’ll go for Can’t Do by Everything Everything. I absolutely love this band. Their music is so clever, layered and intricate but still has loads of catchy Pop hooks in it. You can love their tunes after one listen but still find something new each time you go back to it. They recorded this in the same studio we recorded Ammunition and Luke - one of our engineers worked on it. That was quite inspirational for me.

Malc (Guitar): The Horrors are right up there for me. Top band and their last album, V, has some of their best work in my opinion. The track I love most is Press Enter to Exit which has sounded ever-better cracked loud in the summer sun. I challenge anyone to hear that awesome grooving bass and not nod their head or shuffle their feet. Add to that the huge distorted drum break and grinding machine guitars and you have a dream track for me....oh, yeah, and it has a doorbell in it. Cool, hey!

Dave Merc (Drums): My choice is Electric Man by Rival Sons. Love that guitar riff and solid drum beat

Rob (Bass). I’ll go for an old track – Dying Days by Screaming Trees. '60s Psych vibes with soulful vocals. My favourite to listen to in the car on long, hot drives on my own

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INTERVIEW: Domanique Grant

INTERVIEW:

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Domanique Grant

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I have been chatting with Domanique Grant…

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about her debut single, Investment, and what its tale is. She talks about her upcoming E.P., Playhouse, and the themes that inspired the songs; which artists were important to her growing up; why the Canadian thinks her nation is producing so many great artists – Grant gives some useful advice to upcoming songwriters.

I was curious to know whether there will be any touring dates and which new artist we should follow; if she gets time to relax away from music – Grant chooses a classic song to end the interview on.

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

Hey, Sam! I’m great. Soldiering through this intense Toronto heat but loving the sunshine.

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

I’m Domanique Grant and I’m a singer-songwriter from Toronto that love’s making music that reminds people to feel something. I’d say, genre-wise, I’m a fusion of Pop, Soul and World - and I’m usually compared to fusions of artists like Sia and Sade, but you tell me (smiles).

Investment is your debut single. What inspired the song’s creation?

Yes! Investment is my debut single - and I’m so happy to finally share it with the world. 

Investment is about what we’d get in return if we were able to quantify all that we’ve given up for relationships. I had a blast working with Grammy and Juno-nominated producers Kuya on this record and they really brought it to life. Investment was inspired by a bad dating experience that simultaneous coincided with seeing friend after friend giving their all in long relationships, only to see their partners take all that they could, leaving them with little.

I really wanted to talk about the non-committed culture of dating in big cities alongside failed relationships and losing yourself after all is said and done...but, I wanted to talk about it through the lens of picking yourself up and starting all over again.

It is taken from your debut E.P., Playhouse. Can you reveal what sort of themes and stories you drew from to create the songs?

Well. I grew up living in quite a few big cities around the world, from cities in South America to East Africa. When you travel a lot growing up, you experience the world a bit differently and Playhouse really takes those real experiences - stories, I guess - and turns them into themes. The songs are all pretty personal as one of the underlying themes that Playhouse explores is how these experiences shape the meaning of home for me.

The E.P. starts from that perspective and ties it to conversations about relationships, identity; dream-chasing and more.

You moved between continents and was a motivational speaker. How did you settle into music – did you learn a lot from those early years?

I definitely did learn a lot.

In a strange way, the motivational speaking and travelling really informed my music today. I grew up playing instruments like the cello and piano, writing poems and shower-singing to the greats. I was just an odd, curious kid. Odd kids don’t always fit in and, I guess, that’s where reminding others that they do (fit in) turned into speaking. For a while, though, I felt like I just didn’t have anything important enough to write about. I actually really settled into music when the travelling got the busiest because I needed another way to share my experiences living in new places.

After settling back in Toronto, I was invited to be a part of a Dora-nominated theatre production where I was asked to include original music that connected with my life. After the show sold out and was nominated for a number of awards, I realized that this was something that I wanted to do and that’s when I started recording.

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Have you always been into music? Which artists struck your heart growing up?

Music has always been a part of my life in some form. I was obsessed with a bunch of artists growing up. A few of them were Alanis Morissette, Sade; Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley. I’d almost always have one of their songs on-repeat. They all told stories in a way that made you want to jump into their songs and celebrate, while still managing to affect you emotionally.

I am seeing a lot of great Canadian artists emerge. Do you think there is a reason the nation is providing so many great musicians?

Canada has an incredible industry that supports the arts and I think that - aside from the raw talent that has always been here - we’re really fortunate to have funding and resources that also support artists at all levels. The rise in artists like Drake, Justin Bieber and The Weeknd have also put Canada on the map - but, I also think that Canadians are hard workers and talented and that just speaks for itself.

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

Tour dates will be announced really soon at Domaniquegrant.com and I can’t wait to share.

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Will you visit the U.K. this year and see us?

I’ll definitely be in the U.K. in 2019: another adventure that will be a first! We may be there sooner, though. I’ve heard incredible things about visiting and, aside from the incredible talent and fans there, you guys have this amazing chocolate with cornflakes that I can’t find anywhere else!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Finally sharing music with the world and (just) enjoying the process of a lot of firsts - including my first E.P., my first tour stops and more. I get butterflies thinking about it.

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

I’d say one of my favourite memories was doing my first TED Talk. It was on my bucket list and it was an experience that I’ll never forget.

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

Errr; that’s a tough one there are so many artists that I love. Definitely Sade, Beyoncé or Sia right now…I can’t choose. Just because I’m also a '90s kid I’d have to say that, if the Spice Girls ever did a reunion, I would opt for a sixth spot (smiles).

Rider-wise. Hmm; well, seven random things, in no particular order, would include:

1. Raw honey

2. Marshmallows and liquorice (my embarrassing love)

3. Hot yoga studio

4. Lots of mangoes

5.  A puppy (Mariah Carey-style, just to say that I did it…plus, I love animals)

6. Fenty makeup – just in case mine ran out

7. A humidifier

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Create music that you want to hear and be true to yourself (smiles).

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IN THIS IMAGE: Chloe x Halle

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a huge Chloe x Halle fan; though they’re getting pretty popular so I don’t know if they’re new anymore.

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

Not as much anymore. I love nature and love yoga so I think I’d be somewhere climbing mountains until I got to a dramatic flatbed to stretch in (laughs). That, or binge-watching until the new Game of Thrones season comes out. I also love a good book!

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

Fast Car - Tracy Chapman. One of my favourites.

For anyone reading that needs a reminder to live and appreciate exactly where they are...

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INTERVIEW: SEIL LIEN

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jimi Rae

SEIL LIEN

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THE majestic and wonderful…

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SEIL LIEN has been telling me about the single, I Am Fire, and her fantastic new E.P., A Little While More. She talks to me about getting into music and the sort of influences, musical and parental, that helped guide her career – I ask which songs from the E.P. SEIL LIEN responds to hardest.

The songwriter discusses touring and explains the importance of being up on the stage; a new artist we should follow and watch closely; whether there is much time to relax away from music – she ends the interview by selecting a rather good song.

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Hi, SEIL LIEN. How are you? How has your week been?

Hwat! This weather! Just back from Glasgow, caught Mr Matt White (our bass/guitar player) playing with The Temperance Movement at Trnsmt Festival; I then hung back to see the folks and get things organised for our Scottish dates at the end of the month.

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

I’m SEIL LIEN (pronounced Seal lee-in). It's my Chinese name: my mother's Scottish and my dad’s Chinese. It means ‘little lotus’. 

It started as a little underground arts band creating live ambient landscapes, improvising and collaborating with different types of artists. It eventually mutated into a more structured band format but I have tried to stay true to its roots, placing a lot of importance on creating atmosphere. 

I am interested in I Am Fire. How did that song come together and what does it mean to you?

I had written the main guitar riff and had penned a couple of variations of the song. When I took it to the producer (and artist in the same name) Rico he got it; he could feel what I wanted to put across. We did a fifteen-hour session. It was a cold, dark Christmas night and we ripped it apart and put it back together again.

It’s not a blow-by-blow true story but certainly relatable. It’s kind of about admitting that you're sabotaging a relationship -  it’s not my story but it’s a narrative I've certainly danced with on more than one occasion. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Frank To (who designed the artwork for I Am Fire)

Can you tell me about the cover art for the single and how that was put together?

An old school acquaintance was making incredible artwork and he is being hailed as one of Scotland's most exciting contemporary artists. In his current work and the piece he did for I Am Fire, he manipulates and sets fire to gunpowder. It's really special! 

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The E.P., A Little While More, is out. Do you think there are particular themes and stories that go into the songs?

It’s all true in one way or another... 

I wanted the songs to create a mood rather than just the words painting a picture. It's important to me that music is emotionally tangible. I worked really hard on that and really hope it comes across.

Is there a song from the E.P. that stands as a favourite? Which tracks means the most? 

Hmmm; not really. Although, if you had a gun to my head: I Am Fire is my favourite to play; Chase the Devil is my favourite to sing and A Little While More is my favourite to hear back. 

Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there a moment or artist that lit that fuse?

My dad plays classical Spanish guitar. I have memories of sitting by his feet watching him play things like Suite Española No. 5 Asturias. This passion for Spanish and Latin American guitar was passed down from his father. I’ve inherited the most phenomenal record collection and I’m very much influenced by it. 

I was a teenager in the '90s; I was into all the typical grungy stuff – Pearl Jam, Nirvana and Alice in Chains. I'm not sure who lit what to be honest…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jimi Rae

The moment that lit the fuse for this particular project I can actually pinpoint. It was seeing a music and dance collaboration between Nitin  Sawhney and Akram Khan. I was so blown away, I came out of the theatre and said: “I want to do that”. That’s when I started working with dancers and started creating 'atmospheric' music. It was the beginning of SEIL LIEN. 

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

I’m playing at the Hope and Anchor in Islington on 18th July and I’m very privileged to be opening for Sylvain Sylvain from the New York Dolls at his book launch in Glasgow and Edinburgh on 26th and 27th July respectively. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: SEIL LIEN at Bush Hall supporting Sophie Barker (Zero 7 singer) 

Is the stage the place you feel the strongest and most free? How important is it being up there and performing to the crowd?

Ha, well. I was always a reluctant performer: I’m naturally shy but the need is greater; it’s the strangest thing and I’m sure that’s a common story in the history of performers. I dropped out of art school so had to find another artform to express myself….

I didn’t really think about the consequences until the love for songwriting was greater than my fear of the stage. It's a pretty special way to connect with people, which is ultimately why you do it...so, very important!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want the album to come out and for the people who get it to have the opportunity to get it and then we can all hook up and have a…party? 

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IN THIS IMAGE: The limited edition version of the single is available here

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

Getting the funding from Creative Scotland to make the record. I felt free!  

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

Nick Cave - and vodka martinis.

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IN THIS PHOTO: SEIL LIEN and band setting up at the National Portrait Gallery, London/PHOTO CREDIT: Talya Jacoby

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find your voice, get a mentor and carve your own path.

Some years ago, dealing with different commercial producers and major labels, I was always told to try and write ‘happy tunes'....which I'm not very good at! One of these times, I went to Rico and he said something that has always stayed with me and influenced a lot of my later choices: “Everyone. Everyone gets spat out the other side. The most important thing is that you can live with what you put out into the world. That you can look back and be proud of whatever happens”…

For me, that nailed it. Integrity is everything and, if no one likes it, so fuc*ing what. You made a bit of art that was good for you at the time...

Hey; well done you!

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IN THIS PHOTO: La Luz/PHOTO CREDIT: @sub_lation

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Well; it’s probably not new but it was new to me. I was painting in my studio the other day, the sun was streaming through the window and it came on BBC Radio 6 Music: La Luz - California Finally. It was perfect: I wanted it to last for at least ten minutes. 

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

When you work in the arts, it’s tricky because it’s not a job you can put away at 6 P.M. and go home - and now you have to smear your every move over the socials it’s now even harder to separate your home life from your ‘work’. In the moments in-between, I walk my dog; I paint, I sketch; I write, I listen to records... 

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

Well. The sun's still shining and I'm off to the studio so, hey, La Luz - California Finally!

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INTERVIEW: Caplin & Massiah

INTERVIEW:

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Caplin & Massiah

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BEFORE I wrap up the day’s work…

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I have been speaking with Zeeteah Massiah and Paul Caplin of Calplin & Massiah. They have been telling me about their formation and the anti-Trump message behind All You – I ask them about Donald Trump and how they feel about his state visit to the U.K.

The duo reveals whether more material is coming and if touring is a possibility; the sort of sounds that influence their music; which new artists we should get behind – they each end the interview by selecting a song.

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

Hi! Our week has been exciting but a little exhausting as we race to get our new video ready.

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

We are Zeeteah Massiah and Paul Caplin; a husband-and-wife musical partnership. We’ve made two Zeeteah Massiah albums together and we’re now releasing our first track together as a duo, Caplin & Massiah.

How did Caplin & Massiah get together? When did you find one another?

We first met in 2005 when we were both visiting the same person in hospital. Zeeteah was living in Germany at the time but we kept in touch and over the next few years, our friendship grew into a romantic and musical partnership.

All You is your new single. I believe there is a strong anti-Donald Trump message. Was there a particular speech/moment from him that influenced the song?

Like so many people, we used to regard Trump as a joke, just a buffoon. As his campaign for the presidency gathered momentum and he gained in confidence, we began to be alarmed by the things he was saying and the popular support he was attracting. Now, as our song says, we don’t think it’s funny anymore. Paul says: “If there was one single turning point for me, it might have been the notorious and nauseating video clip of him mocking a disabled reporter”.

He is coming to see us in the U.K. on a state visit. Do you think he will be met with a lot of fury and protest? How do you think he is changing/affecting the world right now?

Major protests have already been organized around the country, including a huge march in London. It’s reassuring that people perceive the danger to all of us of allowing people like Trump to gain political power and are willing to do something to make their feelings known. How is Trump changing the world right now? He’s dragging the global economy down and sabotaging people’s sense of right and wrong, true and false.

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Will there be more music from you in the coming months? What are you working on?

Zeeteah performs regularly at clubs around London. Catch her if you can! We’re preparing an album of her live performances and writing new Caplin & Massiah tracks. More soon!

I get splashes of Bajan and Reggae in your sounds. Can you give me an idea of the music you both grew up around?

Zeeteah was born in Barbados and grew up with Calypso and Reggae. As a teenager in London, Paul was into everything from Mozart to Psychedelic Rock. The two of us have been through so many stages of musical development and enjoyed so many different musical styles. We love it all.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Our immediate goal is to promote our new single, All You, and the message behind it. After that, Zeeteah’s live album and new Caplin & Massiah tracks.

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

We both have so many…but:

Paul: Going from zero to famous overnight with Haysi Fantayzee - and the first time I wrote a song for Zeeteah.

Zeeteah: Singing with Tom Jones on a world tour. It was one long, crazy party (and what we’re doing now).

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

Zeeteah wins this one: Shirley Bassey. Tthe rider is that they get to sing a duet.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

All that matters in music is what you feel when you hear it. Make people feel.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

Zeeteah has lots of live shows coming up. Just google ‘Zeeteah gigs’.

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How does your live set usually unravel? Will you be playing new album tracks or dipping into your past work for upcoming gigs?

‘Unravel’? Hopefully, it doesn’t do that…

Zeeteah’s live shows cover a huge range of music, including our albums and classics that she loves. Caplin & Massiah is mainly a studio project but we’ll be planning live shows once we’ve finished our first album.

Is it important getting on stage and putting your music to the people? What kind of buzz do you get?

Zeeteah: it’s absolutely my favourite thing.

Paul: I’m happiest in the studio - but watching Zeeteah perform is absolutely MY favourite thing.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lady Leshurr

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Lady Leshurr; Sherrie Silver (dancer) and Laurence Jones.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Laurence Jones

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

Not at the moment! But, in general, we make plenty of time to relax. We’ve just moved out of London and it’s so easy to chill in our new home in the country.

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).

Zeeteah: Bonnie Raitt - Something to Talk About

Paul: Nina Simone - I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free

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INTERVIEW: Megan Airlie

INTERVIEW:

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ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Beth Chalmers Photography 

Megan Airlie

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I have been talking with Megan Airlie…

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about her incredible new single, Honey, and what its story is. Airlie discusses classic singers and how they influence her; whether the scene in Glasgow, her hometown, has a great scene; which new acts we should get behind – she tells me whether Pop music, in her mind, has lost some of its depth and soul.

Airlie shares some favourite memories from music and reveals her ambitions for the remainder of the year; whether she gets much time to unwind away from music – she ends the interview by picking a song I had never heard before.

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

Great! Resting this week after the week previous - because I was playing XpoNorth and TRNSMT festival.

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

I’m a twenty-four-year-old singer-songwriter from Glasgow. I take a lot of influence from Jazz, Blues; Folk, Soul and anything I can dance to. You can find me playing solo or backed by a wonderful band. Some of them I’ve been playing with for a long time - which always makes for an electric show.

Honey is your new single. Can you tell me the story behind the song?

It was written five years ago now. It’s an easy breezy love song that was sparked out of a relationship I had. It denotes a more innocent time where you are totally engrossed by a new love and you want to spend every minute with them. In reality, the relationship itself was not all sunshine - which is why wanted to elude darker tones in the music video.

It seems to evoke memories of classic singers like Billie Holiday and Judy Garland. Are these artists you are inspired by?

Yes, definitely; especially Judy Garland. I have listened to her from a very young age,

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Do you find more beauty and personal possibility taking from older music and the romance of the chanteuse? Do you think modern music lacks true soul and depth?

Pop music, way back when, definitely evokes a more romantic and, it seems, they thought more of what they were trying to say, whereas Pop music today seems less personal and is just a means for dancing and churning out ‘hits’ as fast as possible. However, there is music I feel - not in the charts - that still has the same push of passion and emotion. People still have soul!

Is there going to be more material arriving? What are you working on?

You can expect another single within the next couple of months - and I am currently working on new material to record and release at the end of this summer.

You are seen as one of the best new singers coming out of Scotland. Do you think the country gets the attention it deserves? What is the music scene like where you are?

Being Scottish, I have the internal pride in being so. So, yes, I always feel it deserves more attention, not just in music. The music scene is vibrant and bursting out the seams. Glasgow, in particular, you can walk down one street and hear multiple different types of bands playing. The scene itself in Glasgow seems to be quite cliquey, as if you have to earn your stripes before being accepted, but it is a warm environment to be in, mostly.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Beth Chalmer

Which artists and albums did you fall for growing up? When did music come into your life?

Michael Jackson’s Bad, Fiona Apple’s Tidal; Reuben’s 3 and Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions

There was always music around; from the Britpop and Punk my dad listened to; to the '90s Grunge and Alternative scene my aunt was a part of. I would always be listening to noughties and '90s R&B on the music channels. I started playing the saxophone when I was twelve and then started to take singing seriously when I was seventeen.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

To have a solid record in the works and to get some good support slots.

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

Probably getting the opportunity to play XpoNorth this year with my band behind me. People were so lovely and responsive and I made a lot of contacts. I kept thinking: ‘Yep; this is definitely what I’m meant to be doing’.

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

Fiona Apple, for sure.

Rider: ideally, this would be good coffee and a bottle of red wine.

Can we see you on the road at all? What tour dates are coming up?

Currently, no tour planned but, hopefully, that (touring) will happen in the near-future.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stick at it. If you’re enjoying what you’re doing then the likelihood is someone else will do.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Harry & The Hendersons

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Harry & The Hendersons and Russell Stewart - both Glasgow-based, Scottish artists.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Russell Stewart/PHOTO CREDIT: Delilah Niel Films

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

Doing music is my chill time and escape from normal day to day life. I can’t seem to tire of it. I don’t get enough time to do it as I work a nine-five 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).

There’s new music coming out from a Scottish band, Awkward Family Portraits - and their new single, Baby Blue, is out soon

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Follow Megan Airlie

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INTERVIEW: Lindsay Ell

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR 

Lindsay Ell

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HAVING played Country 2 Country…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

back in March, the talented songwriter Lindsay Ell has barely had time to put her feet on the ground and relax. I have been asking her about the album, The Project, and which songs she views as highlights; what it was like playing the illustrious Country 2 Country – she reveals what comes next for her.

Lindsay Ell explains how important Nashville’s people and sounds are to her; which artists inspired her at a young age; if she has advice for upcoming songwriters - the U.S. songwriter reveals some treasured musical memories (catch her play Borderline, London on 16th Oct and Night & Day Cafe, Manchester on 17th Oct).

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

Great! It’s nice to be back in Nashville for a couple days.

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

I am a now Nashvillian, as of eight years ago: I’m originally from Calgary, Canada. I play Country with flares of Soul, Blues and Rock in it: kind of like if you combined Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban and John Mayer together.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

Talk to me about Country 2 Country. What was it like playing there?!

Playing Country 2 Country for my first time in March was a bucket-list moment. There is an energy in The O2 that is hard to describe in words. Fans in the U.K. have such a passion for music and you can feel it standing on stage at The O2. They care about every word you sing and every note I play. It’s nice to have an audience that is right in the palm of your hands.

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Your album, The Project, is out. What is the derivation of that title? What was the first song that started the album?

The first song that started The Project was Waiting on You. When my producer and I sat down for our first music meeting, it was a bluesy tones of Waiting on You that made us both look up from the speakers and be like: ‘We have something here; this is where we start’. 

I wanted to call the album The Project because it felt like a science project of me discovering who I am. It was like I was going through different forms of experimentation to putting together the puzzle of what I wanted my debut album to look like. So, when we were looking for a title…The Project seemed like the only thing that was right.

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PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR

Are there themes and story arcs that connect the songs? Do you have a favourite cut?

The overall theme of the record is me being at a happy point in my life; writing from a place where I’m grateful for what I have; the friends that surround me and the love in my life. From a place of happiness like that, you can write from a perspective that allows you to appreciate things you don’t always notice.

My favorite song would be a tie between two.  I really love the song, Castle, because I feel, musically, it allowed me to really get some of the guitar tones recorded that I wanted to express on this record. Castle also talks about not taking for granted the things that surround us every day. Sometimes, in life, we get so focused on always getting the newest and brightest next thing: bigger houses, faster cars….no matter where we’re at, we always find a way to want more. Castle talks about trying to look at everything you have, today, at this moment - and being grateful for it. 

My other favorite on this record is Worth the Wait. I feel that, sometimes, we need to work too hard for the things we want in life and, therefore, need to wait longer than we want for them. But, it’s in the fight and the journey that what makes it really worth it in the end. 

What comes next? Will there be more material this year – or do you want to get this album out and as far as possible?

I am currently writing the next record as we speak and am so excited for fans to hear this new music. I feel that Kristian Bush, my producer, and I will be getting into the studio near the end of this year. So, you might be able to hear sneak peeks of something near the end of the year - but, new music will probably be coming in 2019.

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PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR 

Do you recall the musicians and albums that inspired you when you were growing up?

Shania Twain was a huge role model for me growing up. Sheryl Crow and Tuesday Night Music Club was a record I played on-repeat. Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Ray Vaughan; Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton were all huge influences to me growing up. 

Based out of Nashville; how important are the city and its people regarding your sound and drive?

I love living in Nashville. It’s such a beautiful community here of which I feel supported by my peers and fellow artists. Nashville really cultivates a family atmosphere - which is rare and sometimes hard to find. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

In 2018, I want to solidify getting a top-10 on Country radio as well as securing a major tour for next year. We’ve had such an incredible past year – and, over the next few months, we’ll be planning gigs. So, 2019 should be exciting!

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

There are so many amazing memories. Getting to tour with Brad Paisley on the Weekend Warrior World Tour was so incredible; being able to trade licks with him on stage every night. 

Playing at the Country Music Association Awards for my first time, playing the guitar for Carrie Underwood was amazing. Also; having my first official feature on Keith Urban’s Graffiti U album (on Horses) and getting to play it live for the first time with him a couple weeks ago was a moment I will never forget!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find out what you want in your heart and never lose sight of that. 

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Follow Lindsay Ell

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INTERVIEW: EMM

INTERVIEW:

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EMM

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IT has been a pleasure…

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speaking with EMM about her new single, No Gods, and how it came together. The U.S. songwriter talks about the feeling in her country right now; whether she thinks female artists are put into holes and boxed-in; what she hopes to achieve before the end of the year – EMM discusses overcome psychological hurdles and coming out the other side.

I was keen to know which three albums are most important to her; some upcoming musicians we should keep an eye out for; whether she gets much time to chill away from music – EMM ends the interview by selecting a fantastic track.

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

Hey, Sam. Thanks for taking the time. It’s been pretty busy - just prepping for a show on Sunday and working on promoting my first release. We also have a second release coming August 3rd called Dirty so I’m preparing for that as well.

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

Sure. My artistry is built around integrating solid messages I’m passionate about into easily-digestible Pop songs. I write and produce everything I make and I have a soft spot for women’s issues. I was raised by an Opera singer and a Classical harpist so Classical music is in my blood - but I am really inspired by people like Freddie Mercury, Prince and Janet Jackson.

No Gods is your new single. It seems to look at corruption and governments. Is there a particular inspiration behind it?

When we aren’t empathizing with each other, we end up dehumanizing one another and people get treated poorly; whether that’s through a screen on Facebook or through harmful rhetoric in the lives of our political leaders. A lack of empathy is so dangerous. The chorus of No Gods says: “You can’t make me wanna be like you - out of my mind”. It’s in reference to the divisive and harmful conversations we have with each other, particularly over social media. The verses are about the irony of using ‘God’ to justify treating humans like sh*t.

I believe that every single human being is sacred and should be treated like they have sparks of divinity within them - no matter the race, gender; sexual preference, amount of money...whatever.

Being based in the U.S.; is it quite a stressful and divided time? Do you think things will improve?

I think, for my generation, we all feel afraid sometimes when we see what’s happening in the world. But, I have a lot of faith in Generation Z. They seem to be much more tolerant and kind than some of the generations that came before them.  

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It seems you take risks and do not like to be boxed-in. Do you think female artists are defined and pushed to perform a certain way?

Yes. Absolutely. I think women in music have a long history of men trying to control what they do behind the scenes. Women that know what they want or take risks are usually considered a threat to the order of the system. Part of the problem is (just) that there aren’t enough women in power at the labels yet. I think, a lot of times, we’re afraid to say something political or anything that could make men that are writing our checks feel uncomfortable. It’s a big part of why I stay independent.

Do you think more material will arrive before the end of the year? What are you working on?

Yes. My squad and I wrote about fifty songs in five months - and we have about twenty we absolutely love. Several of those will come out this year.

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You had to tackle New York at age sixteen and faced psychological troubles and industry evils. Did that experience give you strength and a harder skin – has it been hard adapting, in a way?

I talk a lot about mental-health on my first mixtape, Burning in the Dark. I had to process through a lot of awful experiences. There were a few very dark years for me where I had a lot of suicidal thoughts. I am healed now and I’m thankful that I went through what I did because a lot of other people have told me that the music I made in that period helped them choose to stay here. So, yes, it was super-hard. But, I feel kind of unbreakable now.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

I want to tour. I mostly want to keep working hard every day and doing what I love. I know what it’s like to have to work for ten dollars an hour and barely make rent so I’m honestly just so thankful to be making money and waking up every day and making music.

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PHOTO CREDIT: @ksarrico

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

I will definitely come to the U.K. when I tour. When the announcement comes out, it will be on my website…still in rehearsal mode now, though.

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

I look back really fondly on the songs I wrote in my childhood and adolescent years. There’s something really magical about the songs a girl writes in her room with a guitar or a keyboard before anyone has told her to try to be marketable. Haha.

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

Songs in A Minor by Alicia Keys

Because it was my first C.D. as a kid and I played it a million times. I also ended up getting my start in New York surrounded by her team so it will always be special to me.

The Writing’s on the Wall by Destiny’s Child

Because it taught me how to love myself as a young girl.

Control by Janet Jackson

Because it never stops inspiring me.

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

I am obsessed with Coldplay. I would love to open for them. My rider would probably just be a lot of food. I just love eating.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Hmm. There’s so much. Everyone has an opinion about what you should do and you can try to learn from them but, at the end of the day, you are the artist. Your vision is what matters. Find people that respect that. Also; don’t expect anyone to work harder to make your career pop off then you do. If you’re getting a thousand doors slammed in your face, you’re definitely on the right track.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Diana Gordon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Diana Gordon. She’s a genius. I’m completely obsessed with her. I am also obsessed with this guy, Extremely Bad Man. His music is so soulful.

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IN THIS IMAGE: The album cover of Extremely Bad Man's album, Love Is Pure (out 13th July)/IMAGE CREDIT: Russ Murphy

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

I love being on the water. I’m originally from a town on Lake Michigan, so any time I can swim is awesome 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 think you should play Kool-Aid by Diana Gordon. Can’t go wrong. Thanks so much for your time, Sam!

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INTERVIEW: Stephen Chopek

INTERVIEW:

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Stephen Chopek

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THE awesome Stephen Chopek…

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provides a full and revealing interview where he talks about his latest single, Radio Caroline, and whether he has any direct listening experience with the legendary pirate station. I ask Chopek about future plans regarding material; which artists have been influential to him – he talks about the music scene in Memphis (where he is based).

The songwriter looks ahead and reveals touring plans; which upcoming artists we should get behind; a couple of treasured memories from his career so far; the advice he would give new artists – he ends the interview with a rather unexpected, if memorable, song selection.

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

Hello, Sam! I’m doing well, thanks. I spent most of last week getting settled after returning home from the first leg of my summer tour. (During the second half of June, I drove 4500 miles for eighteen days through ten states to play twenty-one shows in nineteen cities.) I’ll be home for July before heading out again in August.

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

The short story:

New Jersey native and Memphis resident, Stephen Chopek is currently on tour in support of his latest single, “Radio Caroline”. He's travelled the world as a drummer with some of today's top artists. More recently, he's writing his own music which has been described as "a skillfully crafted tapestry of folk, roots, punk, and pop”.

To fill in the blanks: I was born and raised in New Jersey and started playing the drums when I was nine. I played in bands, school groups and youth orchestras throughout grammar and high schools. In college, I performed with percussion ensembles and Rock bands. During that time, I also started writing and recording my own music on a four-track cassette recorder. After graduating university, I studied privately with Billy Martin (drummer from Medeski Martin & Wood) and Jazz percussionist Leon Parker. Through my studies with Leon, I was introduced to guitarist Charlie Hunter. That meeting led me to become the drummer in Charlie’s band from 2000-2002. After that gig, I toured with John Mayer for a year; then Marc Broussard, Jesse Malin; The Alternate Routes, Todd Carey; The Everymen, The Pimps of Joytime and many others.

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In 2008, I took a yearlong break from drumming for a volunteer position in New York City with Americorps (which is kind of like a domestic Peace Corps). During that time, my music pursuit switched from drums to guitar and vocals. I took guitar lessons, worked on my singing and wrote new songs. For most of 2009, I was busking in the N.Y.C. subways during the day and attending open mic events at night. It was a big learning curve to step out from behind the drums and onto center stage. I got back into drumming full-time in 2010 while continuing to write songs. See Through, my first solo album, was recorded and released in 2012. Playing local shows eventually led to out of town gigs and then solo tours along the east coast.

Matters of the heart brought me to Memphis in 2014 and I’ve been here ever since. (My then-girlfriend and I got married in October 2017.) I keep busy in and around town playing drums with some of the many great artists currently making music in Memphis: John Paul Keith, Any LaVere; Motel Mirrors, Dave Cousar; Mike Doughty and Shannon McNally to name a few.

In 2015, I released two E.P.s and my second album, Things Moving On Their Own Together, and supported that with U.S. tours throughout 2016. I released a third E.P. in 2017 (and more touring). My new single, Radio Caroline - with The Ballad of Cash & Dean on side-B - was released online and on 45 R.P.M. vinyl in April. The new album will be out in the fall (with more touring).

Radio Caroline is your latest track. Do you remember when Radio Caroline was on the air? Why did you decide to write about the pirate station?

The original Radio Caroline was before my time so I don’t remember when it was on the air (but I listen to it now online). I’ve always loved music that came out of England in the early-1960s. Through learning about those bands, Radio Caroline was often mentioned as an important part of the music scene at that time. They were a U.K. pirate radio station founded in 1964 that broadcasted from a ship on the open waters to avoid the BBC’s control of the airwaves.

They played records that no other station was spinning but that a lot of young people wanted to hear. It was music that eventually made its way to the masses and changed the world. I always appreciated their support of early Rock-and-Roll and admired their D.I.Y. ethos. My song is a humble tribute to their efforts and the impact they had.

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Do you think there will be more material coming along? What are you working on right now?

There is definitely more material coming along. My new full-length album, Begin the Glimmer, is recorded, mixed and currently being mastered. The artwork is complete and the first single will be out soon; followed by the release in October.

Memphis is where you are based. What is the city like in terms of inspiration and local talent?

There are infinite sources of inspiration in Memphis. So much has happened here in terms of the creation and development of popular music. Howlin' Wolf, B.B. King; Ike Turner, Johnny Cash; Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis; Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley; Al Green, Booker T. & the M.G.’s; Big Star, The Oblivians; Lucero…and the list goes on. Music history in Memphis is deep and you can trace its roots with a short drive down south along the Mississippi River.

The current scene is also rich with incredible talent in many genres - Jazz, Blues; Country, Americana; Garage-Rock, Roots; Punk, Experimental; Metal, Singer-Songwriter and Hip-Hop. It’s a tight-knit community so there’s also a lot of collaborating.

Memphis has a rawness that’s encouraging for artists of all levels to try different things and grow in new directions.

How did music come into your life? Which artists did you bond with early on?

Music came into my life through my parents’ records. There were a lot of American Songbook standards by Cole Porter, Irving Berlin; George and Ira Gershwin and Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn. Singers like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles; Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Hartman; Tony Bennet and Joe Williams. There were also contemporary albums by The Beatles, Billy Joel and Paul Simon. The ‘modern’ music was what initially resonated with me; along with my older sister’s collection of Joan Jett, Go-Go’s; Adam Ant, Duran Duran etc.

My parents encouraged music lessons for my sister and I at an early age. My sister Claudia is now an in-demand violinist based in New York City. She’s been working with Moby, Hurray for the Riff Raff and Father John Misty. I tried different instruments before the drums chose me. I’ve been following them ever since and they’ve taken me to many incredible places with amazing people.

You also work as John Mayer’s drummer. Is that experience something you bring into your own work?

Absolutely. All of my previous work/play opportunities have been valuable learning experiences. Those lessons stay with me as I move on to each new phase of my career.

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

I was on tour in April through the Midwest and along the East Coast in June. In August, I’ll be heading to Arkansas, Oklahoma; Kansas, Iowa; Minnesota, Wisconsin and Missouri. During October, I’ll be going through the South and back towards the East Coast.

Might we see you in the U.K. at all?

Radio Caroline D.J. Chris Pearson recently asked me the same question. I don’t have any plans at the moment for U. K. tour dates but I’m working on it. I’ll be sure to let you know when I’m on the way.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

My goals for 2018 are releasing new music and getting it out to the people. I make sure that my songs are available on the major online platforms and do my best to play live in as many cities as possible. It’s a one-man D.I.Y. operation right now so I’m doing all that I can in a 24-hour day.

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

There are so many that it’s hard to choose: some are from long ago and others as current as earlier this year. The first one that comes to mind is when I was on my first tour and realized that I was making a living as a full-time musician. That was a powerful moment….

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More recently, I was traveling through the Midwest and had an eleven-hour drive from one gig to the next. I played in Fargo, ND on Saturday night and had a gig in Appleton, WI the next day. That normally wouldn’t have been such a long drive except for the fact that I decided to take a detour to Hibbing, MN and see the childhood home of Robert Zimmerman (A.K.A. Bob Dylan). It was totally worth it. I spent a beautiful sunny Sunday morning in Hibbing then made it on time to my show in Appleton. It turned out to be one of the strongest performances of that tour (and the venue made me a vegan pizza for dinner).

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

Opening for David Byrne would be fun. He’s such a unique and forward-thinking musician, visual artist and author. An all-around visionary. Truly inspiring.

My ideal rider would include lots of healthy treats: raw fruits and veggies, hummus; almonds, dried figs and dates; sourdough bread, maybe extra dark chocolate (with no sugar). Non-alcoholic beverages: water, peppermint tea; green tea, chilled seltzer; oat milk for the cold brew coffee concentrate. Also, a towel. Perhaps some clean socks. Nag Champa incense would be icing on the cake.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Remember it’s called ‘music business’ for a reason. ‘Music’ = study and practice your craft. ‘Business’ = enjoy the work because you'll be doing a lot of it. (Usually more business than music.) Be nice. Stay honest.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Julien Baker

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friend David Freeman recently released a beautiful album of original, instrumental compositions called Overview Effect. There’s a Memphis artist named Julien Baker who’s a fantastic songwriter, guitarist and singer. I like the new album from Snail Mail. Also, be sure to check out MonoNeon.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Snail Mail

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

When I’m on tour, I look at a map every day and find the big patch of green. I’m usually able to find a park reasonably close to the venue. With so much time spent driving and in cafes for office hours, it’s important to be active outdoors. That means walking/hiking when I’m on the road and bicycle rides when I’m at home. Daily exercise of any form is the key to overall well-being. I also maintain a daily Vipassana meditation practice which began in 2009 when I went to my first ten-day silent meditation retreat.

I keep a vegan diet, so I’m always interested in trying new plant-based recipes. Visual art is also part of my exploration of the creative process. For a while, I was making collages from found objects and, recently, I’ve been getting into photography.

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

The Banana Splits theme song.

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Follow Stephen Chopek

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INTERVIEW: Ella Poletti

INTERVIEW:

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Ella Poletti

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I am squeezing in one more interview…

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and speaking with a fantastic talent coming out of Los Angeles. Ella Poletti tells me how she came to work with Out There on the new song, What to Do, and what the track is about; if she is going to bring us more new music before the end of the year – the artists that inspired her when she was growing up.

Poletti chats about her cover versions and getting love/support from streaming sites; whether there are aims/ambitions to cover before the end of this year; a new artist we should listen to carefully – I ask which artist, if she had the chance, she’d like to support on tour.

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

I’m well, thank you! My week has been great. I hope yours has been too.

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

Of course! I’m Ella Poletti. I am twenty-years-old. I’m originally from Bloomington, Indiana but I currently live in Los Angeles, fulfilling my dreams of becoming a Pop singer-songwriter.

What to Do is out. Can you talk about how the song came together?

I’m super-excited that What to Do is out now. It was such an easy and fun song to create…it kind of just came to us so quickly. I think that, in total, it only took a few hours over a span of two days to write all of the lyrics and melodies.

It sees you work with Out There. How did you two hook up? What did he add to the song?

Out There and I met through a mutual friend and we kind of just hit it off immediately. After chatting and sharing projects that we were both working on, we knew we had to collaborate. He had already started on What to Do and essentially just needed the top-line melodies and lyrics. He showed me the instrumental he had made and I loved it - so we agreed it collaborate on writing it and then release it together.

Do you reckon they’ll be more music coming? Are you in a productive frame of mind right now?

There is lots more music coming! I am working on some great stuff right now that I can’t wait to share with all of you. There will definitely be more music before the end of the year, that’s for sure.

Your cover versions, especially a take on Shawn Mendes’ Mercy, have proved hugely popular. How do you inhabit other people’s music so personally and with such passion?

I love putting my own spin on other people’s music. I have stopped doing so many covers now, to focus more on my original music, but whenever I would cover a song, I would first really listen to the lyrics and see how I relate to it. One of the many great things about pop music is that it can be really easy to connect with what the artist is saying.

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You have received lots of streams and amassed fans. Is it a bit crazy seeing how far you have come?!

Honestly, it feels like my dreams are becoming a reality. It is very exciting to see the world enjoying my music and it’s so exciting to see my fanbase grow so even more people can enjoy the music I’ve worked so hard on.

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I especially love the flexibility of your voice. Have any particular artists helped shape your vocals/style?

Ever since I first started singing, I was immediately attracted to Pop music. All of the hits of the early-2000s were definitely a big influence on me - especially Beautiful Soul by Jesse McCartney and Leave (Get Out) by JoJo. I also used to listen to Norah Jones on-repeat every night - so I think that was where I got my jazzy/Blues style from, vocally.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

There will definitely be more music released before the end of 2018 and, by the end of the year, I should also have a long list of new original music, features and projects I’m working on for 2019.

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

Probably, the first time I ever heard my voice recorded on a mixed and mastered original song. The feeling of creating something that didn’t exist before and hearing it back professionally recorded is so inspiring and amazing. It also made me realise that my dream of having a song played on the radio is a lot more reachable than I could ever have imagined.

If you could support any musician alive today, who would it be?

Maroon 5 is my all-time favourite band. I mean, they’ve basically been on top-40 radio and charting for nearly twenty years! That’s almost unheard of for a Pop band nowadays. I am a massive fan of them and admire their music and ability to have such a long career…that would be a dream!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would just say to never stop doing what you love and to connect with others that have similar dreams. This can be a really difficult path to chase if you don’t have people to do it with you. It is an amazing feeling helping each other grow and coming up together too.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Sigrid

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sigrid is my favourite artist that’s breaking through right now. I’ve listened to her for a while now and I had the pleasure of seeing her live as well. She is amazing!

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

I’m working on music most of the time; but, when I am not, I honestly do what everyone else does. I love being outdoors and doing things like hiking or going to the beach. But, just spending time laying low with friends is my favourite.

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).

Thank you! Sigrid’s Don’t Kill My Vibe is a fave of mine and a great summer jam.

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Follow Ella Poletti

INTERVIEW: The Moods

INTERVIEW:

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The Moods

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MY final interview of the day…

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is with the ten-strong crew of The Moods. The Manchester band has been discussing their musical influences and how they all found one another. I discover what their new single, Carnival, is all about and how their music generally comes together.

They share a treasured memory from their careers so far; which new artists we need to get our ears around; whether there are any plans for gigs coming up – each of them picks a song to end the interview with.

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

It's been a very busy week with The Moods. The new single, Carnival, has been gaining momentum with a couple of national radio plays on BBC Radio 6 Music and features in national magazines. Everyone seems to be enjoying the song so we're happy.

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

I, personally, have trouble describing our sound. It is a mixture of everything, really. I suppose it's mostly Dance, Drum ‘n’ Bass-driven but, as you can hear from our new single, we like to mix it up with a bit of Reggae, Dancehall and 2-Step-kinda-vibes. We really don't like to restrict ourselves. We even have Heavy Rock songs that we've been playing about with in our studio.

You can always expect something different from us, that's for sure.

Carnival is your new track. What is the song’s story?

This song came about from our festival experiences gigging as a band. We seem to enjoy festivals the most. There's such a good mixture of people and personalities and everyone is there for the same reason: to have a top time. We wanted to capture that feeling in a piece of music and I reckon we've hit the nail on the head with this one. It has a real summery feeling to it.

How does a song from The Moods come together? Do you all pitch in – or will someone take the lead?

We own our own studio, so we all get together as much as we can. We're quite fortunate to have a wide range of musical knowledge at hand in The Moods; so we're never stuck for ideas. There's ten of us in total, so the sounds come together quite quickly. It usually starts with one person's idea and we all come alive and throw our bits in.

It's quite hectic at times but we love it that way.

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The band formed in Manchester in 2014. How did all ten of you get together? Did you all know one another before the band formed?

The core of the band has been together since high-school in 2002. We used to be an Indie band if you can believe that? Over the years, we've always written music together and evolved our sound into what you hear today. We've added a couple of rappers, a violinist and a trumpet player in recent years and we decided to take it back to the stage. We've had some great feedback so we stuck with it.

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Which artists do you all rank as influences? Do you all have varied and wide tastes?

There are so many artists and bands that influence our music. Between the ten of us, we've probably listened to every genre out there. We're big fans of finding new music, though. That's what we love about touring: we get the chance to discover new and exciting artists. Some that instantly spring to mind from recent tours are K.O.G & the Zongo Brigade - and also Yoko Pwno.

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

We're currently working on a new album.

We have no official release date and we're in no rush to get it out there either. We're looking to make this one our best yet. You can probably expect a couple more tracks like Carnival and, maybe, a few more unusual live instruments too. We don't like to restrict ourselves and anything goes. We will be releasing an E.P. soon, so look out for that too.

How do you think The Moods’ music has changed since the start? Have you brought new sounds into the fold?

Yeah, definitely. Like I said before; The Moods started out as an Indie band back in the day. It's been a long journey for some of us and a real learning curve with how to craft songs. We're quite lucky to have the history we have - and it definitely helps when writing music.

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What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018?

By the end of 2018, we're hoping to get out to some new cities and towns that we haven’t played yet and to keep building on our fan base with bigger gigs and festival slots

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

It's got to be our album launch party for me. Selling out the O2 Ritz in Manchester was unbelievable. The crowd was amazing and we sold loads of vinyl and C.D.s. It was a special moment for me and it's gonna take a lot to beat it.

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

Rudimental have always had a massive live show and I think we would be a perfect fit as a support band.

As for the rider; we already have a pretty hefty one with ten of us in the band…but I’m sure we could drink and eat a lot more if need be.  

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would tell them not to be afraid to make the music you want to make. Gig a lot. I mean, loads! It's the most important thing you can do. You will learn a lot about yourself and your audience. Make sure your live show is spot-on and have fun. That's what it's all about: try not to make it a job and you'll feel much better about it all.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

We've spent the last year pretty much touring flat-out from as far north as Inverness right down to London. For all our tour dates you can check out.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

As mentioned before; K.O.G & the Zongo Brigade and Yoko Pwno really stood out as bands that really excited us whilst touring. Tixxy Bang, who features on Carnival, has an amazing album called Strongman that you should all check out. Also; some of the Scottish bands such as The Girobabies, Colonel Mustard & the Dijon 5 and Busker Rhymes are all well worth a listen.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Yoko Pwno/PHOTO CREDIT: Tixxy Bang

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

Only speaking on my behalf but, when I'm not in the studio or on the road with the band, I spend my winding downtime with a good film or game…and generally just spending time with the family

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).

Phil (Drums): The Beautiful South - You Keep It All In

John (Vocals): UNKLE (ft. Ian Brown) - Be There

Paul (Keys): Sub Focus, Rudimental; Chronixx and Maverick Sabre - Trouble

Dave (Bass): Frank Zappa - Dumb All Over

Alice (Violin): Ganja White Night - Champagne

Baz (Drums): Zero 7 - Destiny

Cunny (Vocals): Damian Marley - The Struggle Discontinues

Will (Trumpet): The Nextmen, Gentleman’s Dub Club (ft. Gardna) – Rudeboy

Kolega (Rapper): Kano (ft. Hot Chip) - All + All Together

Explicit (Rapper): J. Cole - Lights Please

I think that list sums up why we make such eclectic music!

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Follow The Moods

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INTERVIEW: Favours

INTERVIEW:

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ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Shelby Fenlon

Favours

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TODAY sees me assess…

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a lot of Canadian talent! Whether there is something in the air or not; you cannot deny the Canadian market is packed and exciting right now. Favours have been chatting about their single, In the Night, and its amazing video; when the band came to be – they reveal whether more material is coming along.

I ask them whether there are some new artists we should check out; if they each have a favourite memory from music; what sort of gigs are coming up – as they are called ‘Favours’; I ask whether they have been asked any cheeky favours in the past!

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

It’s been a wild one. We made the music video for In the Night ourselves and only filmed it a few weeks ago! We worked until 2 A.M., colouring the video the night before its release to make the deadline. It is amazing to have the video and song as our first tune out in the world.

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

We are a Synth-Rock band from Toronto who creates a blend of music from influences of both past and present. We love a lot of music from the '80s and music from today like Tame Impala and Unknown Mortal Orchestra; so, we try to be somewhere in between them: Modern English and Depeche Mode. 

In the Night is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

In the Night is a song Alex Zen wrote about ten or more years ago; he had floated it around different bands but nothing ever clicked. With Favours, everything came together in a perfect way that allowed the song to find its footing. Josh Korody recorded the song and polished it off. Adding a steady synth and bass in the melodies really picked up the tune.

 

The video looks like it was great to film! It has fantasy, colour and a great story. Was it great to be involved with?!

We wrote and produced the video ourselves with help from lots of friends. It was filmed in a vacant house that we had access to and cleaned up, which was a massive undertaking. The video borrows images from our favourite Criterion films like Edward Yang’s Yi Yi and Jubilee by Derek Jarman. The video also briefly features a skateboarding mini-ramp we built in the living room of the house, which provided endless entertainment before and during shooting. 

Is there more material coming from Favours? What are you guys working on?

You bet! We recorded four songs in the studio with Josh when we did In the Night. We expect to head into the studio again this summer to record six more - and then we’ll have an E.P. ready for early-2019. More singles will be released along the way.

 Can I ask how you got together? When did it all click?

Parth and Alex both played in former bands in Toronto (Pet Sun and Invasions). Jacq writes and directs music videos and films; Alex and Jacq met through their video work. Dan and Parth are both from Hamilton and have always wanted to play music together, so it was a perfect fit.

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I am seeing a lot of great music come from Toronto. What is it about the area that leads to such invention and consistency?

There are tons of great bands coming out of Toronto and it might have something to do with the great water quality and excellent health care.

Which artists do you take guidance from? Who do you all count as idols?

Tame Impala, Unknown Mortal Orchestra; Arthur Russel, Depeche Mode; Modern English, Talking Heads; Stone Roses, Joy Division. All those kinda cats.  

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What do you hope to achieve before the end of 2018?

We would love to open for some bigger bands and get on tour. We’re set to put out at least two more songs so, hopefully, we can get some traction and hit the road. 

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

Alex: I was part of a music residency program at the Banff Centre which was by far the most lavish and exciting time I have ever had in music. I worked with some unbelievably talented producers and musicians there and really learned to hone my craft- which is part of the reason songs sound the way they do.

Parth: Touring through the States and getting to hit new unreal cities every night was a treat. Getting to see the White House one night and Fenway Park a couple nights later...all the while playing music you love (is the dream).

Jacq: Joining a band for the first time (Favours) and playing my first show was super-fun. I’ve been studying piano since I was little so it was nice to fiddle around with such an awesome synth. 

Dan: A few years back; I had a lot of fun organizing and playing a show where we got to perform in warlock robes in a smoke machine-filled, black-lit room for a real fantastic crowd.

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

Kevin Parker – any day of the week.

The War on Drugs – any second day of the week.

Mac Demarco – every other week (because he is too wild to take on all the time).

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We are still looking for advice: if you have any, please send it our way. Treat music like you would a prized pooch and really coax that pooch into the world with grace and dignity. Maybe it will love you back.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

We will be playing in Toronto and Ontario during the summer months. Stay tuned!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Anemone

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Anemone, Faith Healer; Passport Radio and Wooly Mantis are some great Canadian acts to check out!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Passport Radio/PHOTO CREDIT: Lexi Johnston

As you are called ‘Favours’; can I ask what the biggest favour each of you has been asked is?

Jacq: Someone asked me to shave their bum once…quite the request.

Alex: People ask for favours all the time but let me tell you: nothing comes free.

Parth: A friend once asked me if they could use my apartment to get busy with a Tinder date…while I was home...

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

Typically, we work until we bleed but, when we do catch a moment of time to unwind, we pick up some cold brews and maybe a camera; make a film and hit the old skateboard. The usual.

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).

Alex: Caramello – Xenoula 

Parth: Cut Worms - Don't Want to Say Good-bye

Dan: Birdland - Weather Report

Jackie: Mount Kimbie (ft. Micachu) - Marilyn

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Follow Favours

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INTERVIEW: Brutus Begins

INTERVIEW:

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Brutus Begins

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IT has been a real blast…

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speaking with Brutus Begins. He (Ricardo) discusses the track, The Nothing Here, and what it was like filming the video; which artists he would support on tour if he had the chance; what the music scene is like in his part of Canada – he recommends an artist that is filling his mind right now.

Brutus Begins tells me whether U.K. dates are a possibility; why Prince is a huge idol and driving force to him; how the songwriter spends time away from music – ending the interview by selecting a classic slab of Queen.

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

I’m feeling lucky, very grateful. Things are busy - in a good way.

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

Sure. I’m a musician who uses elements of Psych, synth and Folk to make songs you might like if you’re into the likes of MGMT, Beck and Peter Gabriel.

Can I ask where that moniker, ‘Brutus Begins’, comes from? Is there a story behind it?

It started where the last one ended.  

As the project I was part of was coming to a close, I knew it was bringing about the start of something I could completely immerse myself in. I like the idea that the tragedy of one era is the catalyst for the next. Even something that may be considered a disaster or betrayal is, when you look in a larger context, just the necessary circumstance for fulfilling your own potential. If necessity is the mother of invention, failure is the midwife.

The Nothing Here is your latest song. Does it have a particular origin? What was it like recording the video?

The song was inspired by a scene in the film, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. There’s a scene where Sam Rockwell’s voiceover describes all the things you could have been and the terrible day you wake up and realize that you’ve become none of them. I think, for a lot of artists, there is an innate fear of becoming invisible and that can lead to reckless behaviour - whatever it takes to be seen. 

Making the video was a lot of hard, fun work. My good friend Reinaldo Tragnone co-directed and shot, while my wife Jessica Lea Fleming (who is also a filmmaker) helped produce and got us our first location…her grandma’s cottage in the dead of winter. There was no running water but it had heat and character. The outdoor scenes, walking toward the sunrise in a bathrobe, were probably as cold as I’ve ever been (it was around -30 degrees). 

After editing some of that footage, we decided to get a little more ambitious and expanded the concept and crew. Another contributor, Adrian Mehes, joined us to help on the subsequent shoots. The whole thing was done on a modest budget only because Reinaldo, Jessica and Adrian were so innovative and committed. 

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Uncanny Valley (2016) was met with huge acclaim. Were you stunned by the reception it garnered? Will there be another album coming along?

It was really nice to get such positive feedback and press for an album I recorded on my own, at home. Still, it made me aware of how much further I still wanted to push my sound and how much I have to learn. That’s part of why I went to an outside producer for The Nothing Here. After talking to some people, I ended up working with Michael Dilauro who I felt did a great job of polishing my sound and helping me bolster a pretty simple song with a dynamic arrangement. I’m working on a batch of new recordings and plan on releasing a few more singles before releasing an E.P. or full-length album. 

It’s an advantage of being an independent artist when you can take the time to immerse yourself in the minutia of each track without being pressured to meet a deadline that serves a short-sighted goal. For now, I feel like singles are practical and allow me to reach out to a new fanbase while I evolve and grow.

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You mix natural sounds and acoustic instruments – some synthesisers thrown in there. Do you think that mix of nature and electronic is what gives your music its depth and fascination? 

For me, yes. That was part of my goal and really part of why I’m so interested in music today…where different sounds lead and the buttons they push. I’m fascinated by the way we straddle this imaginary line between the things we call natural and synthetic and how these things need each other to be relevant and effective. Power on, turn on your Wi-Fi: the stereo, the Bluetooth so you can hear an acoustic guitar or some congas - or just a human voice. It’s a long way around to get where you were.

Still, these things play nicely together and they are reflections of who we are and how we live. Even the ‘unnatural’ blips, effects and wires have their nature…Sh*t; I can’t really make sense of it but that’s what gives me that feel of wonder.  Still, each listener is going to find depth according to where they dig; whether it’s samples, melodies; beats or stories. I’m trying to make something that lets you dig in a different direction each time.  

How did music come into your life? Were there particular artists that made you want to go into music?

As a kid; it seemed a bit mysterious or magical. To see my dad get nostalgic while singing a Charles Aznavour song or just watching a band move a crowd when my parents took me with them to the Portuguese dances in the community…it was like watching mass hypnosis. I think, when you’re really young, so much of what you perceive as your parents' life seems grey, work; controlled…not free.  Music seemed to be the only thing that gave everyone permission to reach up, dance; stomp, hug; make noise and play all at once.  

I remember seeing my first videos and lots of artists scared and excited me at the same time. They had bright colours like real-life cartoons, moved like superheroes and snarled like pr-wrestlers. Prince blew my goddamn mind - this little dude in a lace blouse and heels. I saw that and my tiny brain lit up! I thought: ‘This is allowed?! This guy is weird and cool and he doesn’t give a fuuuuuck!’ I don’t know how I knew this…but I was pretty sure girls loved this dude. Then, I saw him playing the guitar and it was like he was pouring his molten heart into it; like everything he felt was way too big for any words but he could find a way to fit this giant feeling into a sound. It was like hearing a new magic language - but it would take me years to get up the nerve to speak it.

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Toronto is where you are based. Is it a great city to create and perform music in?

Well; not anymore. I recently moved to Hamilton (about an hour away) and while, yes, Toronto is a great city to create and perform - there’s something very exciting happening in Hamilton right now. It took just a few weeks before I found some brilliant people to perform with here and round out the live show. I think a lot of artists have been priced out of Toronto and have had to move to places where lower rents allow for more time to create, experiment and grow.  

Since coming to Hamilton, I’ve seen some incredible musicians honing their craft and laying the foundation for a powerful scene. It’s just a matter of time before everyone else sees what is being built here.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

Hmm. I think playing shows to really get our band as tight as possible. We have some exciting things lined up including a festival here in Hamilton and we’ll follow that up with a couple of singles and another video that’s in pre-production right now. It’s for a song called Casual in Cruelty and the video can best be described as The Great Gatsby-meets-Caligula-via-David Lynch’s-meds. It's gonna be a trip.

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

We’re setting up tour dates and are looking at opportunities that would take us through the U.K. So, yes - and probably!  

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

I’ve been fortunate to make some great friends and have some adventures through music…even if, at the time, they seemed like disasters. Whether it’s as a performer or a fan, the moment I can regain the same wonder and awe I had as a nine-year-old hearing Prince for the first time - that’s the new favourite time.

A couple of nights ago, I saw Beck perform. After introducing his band and playing some bits of covers he said: “Someone out there might be thinking - why are these guys playing all these covers…is this a wedding band?! *pause* No; THIS IS A CELEBRATION OF MUSIC!” The place went bananas and so did I. It was a concise, earnest and massive expression of what drives me. So, that’s my most recent favourite memory but I’m always chasing the next one.

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

Wish-list time!  

I’d like to open for Paul Simon....

As far as the rider goes, here are my demands: cappuccinos, creme brûlée and a projector playing Martin Scorsese’s The Last Waltz on a loop.

Then, ten minutes before I go on, Paul Simon has to come in and compliment me on a very specific lyric from my most-recent single. He has to tell me how clever said lyric is and that he wishes he could have written it himself. Then, hugs me real tight, kisses me on each cheek and says he can’t wait to watch me perform. 

That is the rider…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Fail big. Don’t shrink your ambitions to fit them comfortably in the minds of small people.  

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IN THIS PHOTO: Khruangbin

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m currently obsessed with Khruangbin.

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

I chill out with my lovely wife, travel when I can; watch good movies and write whenever I have a moment. 

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).

Queen - I Want to Break Free

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Follow Brutus Begins

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INTERVIEW: Judith Hill

INTERVIEW:

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 Judith Hill

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FEW people can claim they have…

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spent time in the studio with Prince! I ask Judith Hill about that experience and what it was like supporting Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder – Hill talks about her musical tastes and how important it is being up on the stage and bringing songs to the people.

The talented artist discusses her latest track, The Pepper Club, and what we can expect from her upcoming album, Golden Child. She recommends a couple of new artists and coming to the U.K. to play – the songwriter tells me what the biggest she has learned is.

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

I’m doing great. My week has been awesome. Excited to be preparing for these shows.

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

My name is Judith Hill. I’m a Soul singer from L.A. I grew up writing, performing and playing since the age of four. I love anything funky, anything with an orchestra and anything that really moves my soul. 

You have a new single/video, The Pepper Club, out. What was the inspiration behind the song?

The Pepper Club was inspired by my new show, Golden Child. It is a play/modern ballet that celebrates the diversity of culture as it tells a story about a group of people who overcome societal division. The Pepper Club symbolizes a cultural mecca where all types of people are celebrated. I eventually want to open a venue called the Pepper Club. 

It is from the album, Golden Child, due later this year. Are there particular events and themes we can see addressed on the album?

Golden Child, the album, has a major theme of unity. Given the current climate of the world, I want to use music to overcome hate and bring people together. We are all one in spite of our differences. I also wrote a lot of the songs for the young child in me. After tragedy and darkness comes the rebirth of innocence.

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You worked with Prince back in 2015. What was that like?! Was it quite intimidating having him in the studio?

No. It was peaceful and wonderful. I miss it. 

How has supporting artists like Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder affected you as an artist and performer?!

They are both incredibly inspiring. I’m inspired by their energy. Being a part of the experience taught me so much. It’s not just the excellence; it’s also the spirit behind the music. Every true artist opens the gateway into God’s stage. We are blessed to experience his power and love through music. 

Do you think you have changed as an artist since the earliest days? What has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

The biggest lesson is to fall in love with what you do. Always keep the excitement and joy in your heart - that is the fuel for every good performance and song.  

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

One of my favorite memories is practising Chopin's Nocturnes in college. I loved the harmonies. That’s part of what inspired so much of my music as an artist. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The advice I would give to new artists: become the best version of yourself. Live in the moment every time you hit the stage and never stop creating. Create every day and share it with the world. Your music may become someone’s salvation or just put more smiles on faces. 

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I believe you are playing the U.K. soon. Have you performed here before?

This will be the first time I bring my whole band to play in the U.K. Last time I was there, I opened for John Legend. It was an acoustic show - but this is the full band show.  

Is it important getting on stage and putting your music to the people? What kind of buzz do you get?

I love performing live. That’s where you feel the connection with people and the songs come alive. Every show is a different experience. When people come to my shows, I take them on a journey. It’s an emotional rollercoaster but an unforgettable experience. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Alice Smith

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I love Marcus King and Alice Smith. They are both great.  

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

I love watching movies, going to vintage clothing stores and playing with my dog.  

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).

Pure Imagination – Gene Wilder

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Follow Judith Hill

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INTERVIEW: Colour Film

INTERVIEW:

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 Colour Film

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I have been speaking with…

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the excellent Colour Film (Matthew de Zoete) about his single, Open Road, and its creation. He talks about shooting its video and working alongside Caroline Brooks; how he feels he has developed since his debut – de Zoete offers some advice for upcoming artists.

I ask the Canadian songwriter whether there is more material coming later in the year; if there are any tour dates planned; how he spends time away from music – he ends the interview by selecting a classic cut.

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Hi, Colour Film. How are you? How has your week been?

I'm doing well, thanks. My week's been good - lots of activity around the new single and video, so that's been fun. I've also been working a fair bit on my wife's flower farm, helping her out during the busy season. It's nice to get outside and do some physical work as well.

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

Sure. My name is Matthew de Zoete and I live in the countryside near Hamilton, Ontario (Canada). I started releasing music and touring in 2006. Since then, I've released four albums and toured throughout North America and Europe. 

What is the story behind the moniker, ‘Colour Film’?

The name comes from the title-track of an album called Colour Film released under my own name in 2012. The song is a reflection on seeing home movies of my grandparents and their siblings from the 1960s when they were much younger than I've ever known them being. Seeing those silent films made me realize that my grandparents are just like me - they started out young and are getting older one day at a time – and that I have a lot more in common with them than I thought.

So, the song is important to me, personally but, also, when I thought about it, I realized that I often write songs with a visual element - some characters, a plot or situation; a distinct setting, some details that hopefully bring the song alive in a listener's mind. Sometimes it's subconscious, sometimes it's intentional but it seems to be a recurring theme in how I approach songwriting.

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Open Road is your new single. Is there a story behind the track?

The song was inspired by a bike ride I took with my wife and two young daughters in the countryside one evening. At one point, they were up ahead of me a little way and I caught a glimpse of them biking with a stretch of open trail curving off into the distance in front of them. I was struck by the idea of a person you love being an open road - taking you places inside yourself, opening possibilities and shaping your path into the future.

This thought and the mental snapshot of my family stuck with me, so I wrote the song the next day. The rhythm and melody remind me of biking with them and we shot the video on the same stretch of trail where the song was inspired.

How did you come to work with Caroline Brooks? Do you two have a musical past together?

I'd met Caroline a few times through producer Les Cooper (who has also worked with Caroline and her band Good Lovelies) and other musical friends. We don't have a musical past together but I was familiar with her music. So, as soon as I started visualizing the feel and atmosphere of how I'd like to record Open Road, I thought Caroline's voice and approach would be perfect.

The video sounds like it was really interesting to put together. How quickly did Nathan Fleet, the director, come up with the concept?

The video was really fun and easy to shoot. It was a very relaxed and enjoyable experience, which isn't always the case! Nathan and I were kicking around a few concept ideas and I suggested two people doubling on a bike, which I'd seen and done a fair bit on previous tours in the Netherlands. We fleshed the idea out a bit and both felt it would suit the song. So, the concept was quite easy and natural as well. Usually a good sign.

Is there going to be more material before the end of the year? What are you working on?

I'm always writing new songs, so that's what I'm working on at the moment - preparing material for the next album which I plan to start recording later this year. The album won't be out for a while, but you never know…there may be another single before then.

How do you feel you have developed as a songwriter since your debut?

I think I've been able to achieve a bit more focus and clarity, both musically and lyrically.  I think I've learned to have a little bit more direction.

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What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

Another birthday…

Beyond that, I'd like to help Open Road reach some ears and connect with some people; maybe elicit a few smiles. I'd like to continue to grow as a songwriter and record a few more songs.

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

I played a concert a few years ago in an intimate venue and it happened that a number of relatives - aunts and uncles of mine, along with some cousins of my parents – could be in the audience. Introducing and playing the song Colour Film that night was quite powerful and meaningful; knowing that those relatives, who understood the family connections and knew the people in the home movies that inspired the song, were there sharing the experience.

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

I would open for Ray Davies and only ask that I could play guitar in his band.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Not sure how much wisdom I have to share, but two things have been helpful to me...

One is to be open to honest feedback, both positive and negative, from people whose opinions you trust. The other is to keep on keeping on - in both musical and non-musical aspects. Keep writing and learning; keep booking shows and tours; keep trying to connect with people.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Don Brownrigg

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Don Brownrigg. He's released a few albums - so not a new artist, per se - but his music is well worth checking out.

Will you be touring very soon? Might we see you in the U.K.?

I've always wanted to tour the U.K., which might be partially due to my secret but thriving interest in Anglo-Saxon history. I don't have any confirmed plans for a U.K. tour, but it is on my list of projects.

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

We've got a couple kids and a farm to take care of, so there isn't a whole lot of true downtime. But, to relax I enjoy gardening and reading - mostly history, but current events and novels as well.

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

I'd love it if you could play A Song for You by Gram Parsons

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Follow Colour Film

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INTERVIEW: Sarah Darling

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Cameron Powell

Sarah Darling

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THE next couple of weeks are going to be rather…

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extraordinary and busy for Sarah Darling. She has a huge gig at Hyde Park and will play alongside, among others, Paul Simon! Darling has been talking with me about her latest single, Diamonds, and what its story is; recording it in Nashville and when she started to get involved with Country music.

She reveals whether more material is coming and what other tour dates are occurring; which three albums mean the most to her; a couple of new acts we need to get involved with – Darling tells me about her ambitions for the remainder of this year.

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

Hello and thank you for the interview! It’s been a wonderful week of resting and spending time with family. I’m a girl of balance and love the recharge time. I’ve been quite the world traveller lately.

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

Hello. My name is Sarah Darling - that’s my real last name! Welcome to my world of Country music meets the wide open spaces. It’s music that allows you to really escape somewhere beautiful through a story. If you get a chance, check out Diamonds, Where Cowboys Ride and Halley’s Comet and you will get to know me in about twelve minutes!

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

Diamonds is a very special tune. I wrote it with a really good friend, Jessica Sharman from the U.K.

We sat on my front porch in Tennessee watching the sun go and wrote the words to this song. It’s the idea that not everything beautiful happens in an instant. There’s a process to everything - and it’s what you do in the process that makes it all worthwhile. It’s really been my life and my experience of chasing my dream in the music industry. I wouldn’t change a thing to the process of how I’ve done things.

It’s led me to far more beauty than I could have ever imagined.

Is it true the song was recorded in Nashville? How cool was it recording there?!

Yes. Diamonds was recorded in Nashville with producer Mark Bright at Starstruck Studios. He’s one of those producers I had always dreamed about working with. Honestly, recording in Nashville is one of the most magical experiences. You basically get the most creative people in a room and they bring a song to life. I always wish I could bring everyone in the room to watch the process because it’s so wonderful.

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It seems like there are similar lyrical strands to Wasted. Do you see the two songs as companion pieces?

A lot of my music touches on certain subjects I’ve been finding. I think it’s great to be a storyteller and messenger. Hopefully, the words really speak to somebody.

Are there going to be more tracks coming before the end of the year? What are you working on?

I’ve been writing like crazy the last few months. We will be announcing new music very soon.

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It seems Country music plays a big role in your life. Is it a genre you are drawn to?

My grandfather was a big Country music fan and introduced me quite young. Country reminds me of home and all the wonderful memories of family. I love bringing that aspect into what I do every day.

I notice Pop elements coming into your current material. Who do you count as musical influences?

I’ve always been a blend of all my influences. I love great music and don’t even create genres anymore. I grew up listening to Joni Mitchell, the Eagles and Shania Twain. I’m a product of all the music that’s influenced me over the years.

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

Yes. I’m playing my biggest show to date July 15 with Paul Simon and James Taylor at Hyde Park for British Summer Time! July 22 at SummerTyne Festival; July 23 at River Town and August 26 at the Cottingham Folk Festival.

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

I have an ambition to elevate, musically. I absolutely loved making my last album and now it’s the fun part of creating a new world for people to enjoy. Creating is hard and wonderful all at the same time.

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

I had someone share how Diamonds really made them feel uplifted in a very dark time in their life. That’s what music is supposed to do.

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

Raising Sand - Alison Krauss and Robert Plant

The Woman in Me - Shania Twain

X & Y - Coldplay

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Always be yourself and beautiful things will happen. It’s not a race - and allowing yourself to make something that’s truly ‘you’ will make all the difference.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Wandering Hearts

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a fan of The Wandering Hearts and Gabrielle Aplin.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Gabrielle Aplin

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

I always try to get an escape just to shut down my mind. I love to cook and go on hikes as well as travel to new far off land!

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).

Ward Thomas - Lie Like Me. I love these girls and this new release!

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Follow Sarah Darling

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INTERVIEW: Shlomi Ash

INTERVIEW:

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Shlomi Ash

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MY final interview of the day…

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is with the wonderful Shlomi Ash. He has been telling me about his debut single, Taking Me Over, and what it felt like finishing it; if there is more material coming down the tracks – he reveals some songwriters that have been important to him.

Ash tells me when music came into his life; growing up in Tel Aviv; the advice he would give to artists making their first steps; how he spends time away from music – he provides the names of upcoming artists we should check out.

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

Pretty tense but I have no complaints. I did quite a lot of rehearsals for upcoming shows and drank too much but also wrote a new song that I really like and started planning my first music video – so, things are going really well.

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

Absolutely. I am Shlomi Ash; a singer-songwriter from Tel Aviv. I write big, loud guitar songs as well as intimate, acoustic melodies. Above all, I strive to make sincere, melodic and poetic guitar music. I spent the past few months in England recording a debut album with producer Chris Potter which I’ll be releasing in the coming year or so. I also quite like wine… (smiles).

Taking Me Over is out. As a debut single, was it quite tough putting something together you felt was ‘ready’ for the world?

Very, VERY tough. I spent the past ten years or so writing the songs that ended up on the album, including Taking Me Over, so it was extremely tough letting it go. Ultimately, though, you get to a point where you say: “If I won’t record it now, I’ll probably never will”. So, you simply let go and make it the best you can and as truthful as you can.

What is the story behind the song? When did it start life?

The main riff came first, some eight-plus years ago, and I liked it so much that I played it repeatedly for several hours until the rest of the music just came into being. I was very much into Funk and American Delta Blues at the time (Robert Johnson mainly), so I tried to write lyrics that had this feeling. As far as I’m concerned, though, it could be about anything really. It could be about sex, or about music itself and its part in our lives - or about anything else. For me, the main thing is the feeling and vibe of the track.

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Taking Me Over has already been included on playlists and is doing well! How does that make you feel?!

Well, fantastic! Getting such great feedback on a debut single is very exciting and I’ve been humbled by all the things people said about it. I think a lot of people (including myself) are really hungry for guitar music. For too long now too many people say that guitar music is dead but I don't believe it will ever be the case. When I hear a great guitar riff or a strong guitar melody, my heart just starts pumping, in the most primal sense, and this kind of feeling can never disappear. I truly believe so.  

Is there more material coming along? Might we see another single before the end of the year?

Oh, definitely. There are lots of things in the pipeline and we’ll definitely be releasing one-two singles before the end of the year - and probably a music video or two as well.

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Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there an artist or person who influenced that move?

Growing up, there was music coming from the radio in my house all the time - anything from Middle Eastern music to '70s Progressive-Rock. The moment when music became the main part of my life, though, was when I first heard The Beatles’ ‘Blue’ album. I was lucky enough to hear it for the first time at a very young age as it was one of the very few C.D.s my father had laying around. I became obsessed with it and still think everything you need to know about music can be found on that record.

Funnily enough, I also remember The Titanic movie soundtrack as another major influence at a young age. The big cinematic, symphonic sound never stopped exciting me since - and I’m still trying to add it to many of the songs I write.

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In terms of music; what do you listen to when not recording your own?

I’m fascinated with great guitar music and great singer-songwriters. Like yourself, I love Jeff Buckley as I think he is a master of all domains – guitar playing, songwriting and singing. I also love American Rock and Folk legends such as Bruce Springsteen, Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan but my greatest love is definitely for '90s Pop-Rock music - Grunge, Britpop and anything in between. These guys knew how to craft great, timeless songs.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Getting the music out there is the number-one thing. I can't wait for people to hear the other songs from the album. So, doing shows and performing as much as I can is a good goal for 2018.  

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

My first ever band rehearsal was something I'll never forget... 

I was fifteen or sixteen and just got my first band together. We didn't have a lot of money to spend on a proper rehearsal room so we went to the schoolyard at 2 A.M.; found an A.C. outlet near the basketball court, plugged in the amps and guitars and started jamming under the stars. Our school was in a highly-populated neighbourhood, so it wasn't long before someone called the cops and we had to run away with the amps and guitars and all.

We were good kids but, at that moment, we felt like true Punk-rockers! It was one of these great childhood memories that come to you sometimes and put a smile on your face years later.

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

Probably Nick Cave or Tame Impala. Both of them seem to have a lot of fun on stage so it would be great supporting them. I'm also a big (Bruce) Springsteen fan and his live shows are the best I've seen - so that would be a dream come true as well.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Send your music out there: you can never know who will like it and join forces with you. I ended up working with one of my all-time favourite producers only because I reached out to him and sent him my demos. Also; never stop writing, wherever you are and whatever you do. You never know when the next great song will come along.

Might we see you tour very soon?

Yes! We plan a tour in the Tel Aviv area in the coming months and there's a planned European tour for early next year. I love England, so coming back to do shows there would be fantastic as well.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Pale Seas/PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Chris (my producer) introduced me to a new band from the U.K. called Pale Seas which I’m obsessed with at the moment. They’ve made a remarkable debut album.

I also quite like Dr. Dog - they are not as new but equally as great. They’re an American band that has a modern Beatle-esque sound and a really nice vibe.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Dr. Dog

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

Well; I already mentioned wine...

Besides that, I really like watching stand-up comedy and painting - but nothing really beats Netflix these days, does it?

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).

That's always fun. I would have to choose the great Mr. Buckley, then. Maybe his What Will You Say duet with Alim Qasimov - that's a strong one!

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Follow Shlomi Ash

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INTERVIEW: Astha

INTERVIEW:

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Astha

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THE stunning Astha…

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has been talking with me about her track, More, and how it came together. I ask about Toronto and whether it plays an important role to her; when music came into her life; if her own material/sound has changed and progressed since the early days – she talks about her first home of Kathmandu (Nepal).

Astha recommends a new artist and gives advice for artists coming through; whether there are tour dates coming up; a special memory from her time in music – Astha ends the interview by picking a song from a great new talent.

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

Hey! So busy! We had a really successful pre-listening event for the E.P. yesterday in Toronto. As an independent musician, the grind sure is real!

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

I’m Astha; an Alternative Pop singer-songwriter originally from Kathmandu, Nepal and now based in Toronto, Canada. What I’m about (is wanting) to capture complex human emotions in a minimalistic way to create a sonic space of intimacy with my listeners. By welcoming them into my world and my emotions, I hope my audience will feel inspired to express theirs as well and hopefully discover their emotional freedom.

More is your new single. What was it like putting the song together?

More is a song that I hold very close to my heart. My producer, Myles ‘Losh’ Schwartz, and I spent many days in the studio fine-tuning the emotional delivery of the vocals. Since it is such a stripped-down production, it was important for us to focus on the voice being the centre of the song.

I believe you faced tough decisions and felt, at one point, your life was not going according to plan. Is More the rebirth and need to find something better from life?

I wouldn’t necessarily call it a 'rebirth' but more so a self-discovery process. I feel that the song More represents my understanding of what true unconditional love feels like in a relationship. In 2015, through the most random string of fated events, I met someone who hit me like a wave. Have you ever had an unconditional love? I believe that I have found that love and if I can capture even an ounce of that love in my songs I have fulfilled my calling.

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How do you think your music has developed and progressed since your early days? Have you felt yourself change as an artist?

I would say that, at my core, I haven’t changed much. What has changed is the amount of life I have lived, which I feel definitely reflects in my music. I feel like I know myself better now? I think for the longest time music was sort of a crutch I relied on to fill a void. Now, I am approaching music from a space of fulfilment. Now, I have a lot more to give!

Toronto seems to be an important place for you. What is about the city that you love?

Toronto is my second home (Kathmandu first). I’m so lucky that I have two cities I can call home. The multiculturalism is what I love the most about Toronto. Everyone here is from somewhere else.

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How did music come into your life? Were there particular artists that made you want to go into music?

Music came into my life in the form of songwriting. I started writing songs when I was fourteen and fell in love with the art form instantly. Music is definitely my first love. Artists who had a huge influence on me growing up were songwriters like Ben Harper, Dave Matthews; John Mayer and Alicia Keys.

What do you hope to achieve by the end of 2018?

I hope I continue writing and releasing new music. My biggest fear is that I’d stop writing songs someday. That would be crippling.

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

The U.K. might be on the list! I did three shows in the U.K. back in 2014 and have been itching to go back ever since! As of right now, my team has secured a few dates for Australia next year.

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

I remember all the late nights I used to spend writing songs back when I was a teenager. I would pretend to be asleep in my room with all my lights off. I would then use the streetlight that would shine through my window as a light source and stay up all night writing in my notebook. I miss that. I miss writing just for the sake of writing, without the pressure of turning them into studio-quality songs.

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

Wow. Tough question. I would love to open for James Bay and support him on his tours if I could.

As for the rider: an unlimited supply of warm green tea, please!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To be yourself - and not let the industry change you. At the end of the day, all that matters is making music that you feel is true to you.

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IN THIS PHOTO: lemin.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a new artist out of Toronto I just discovered the other day who goes by the name lemin. I love her new song, My Body - “My fingers talk about your hands/My mouth tells me about your lips/My silhouette just won't stop talkin' 'bout your fingers on my hips/It's so loud”. So beautifully written!

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

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors; just getting in touch with nature. Being beside any body of water helps me recharge.

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).

Lemin. - My Body

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Follow Astha

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INTERVIEW: cleopatrick

INTERVIEW:

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cleopatrick

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THERE is a long and deep connection between…

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the guys of cleopatrick. I have been speaking with them about their new single, youth, and whether further material will arrive – they tell me how they got together and what Ontario is like in terms of music and vibe.

The cleopatrick boys reveal some hot-off-the-press tour dates and talk about favourite musical memories; they highlight some upcoming artists to get behind; some useful advice for emerging musicians is provided – they end the interview by selecting some great songs.

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

Incredible, dude. Life is incredible.

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

Hey. We are cleopatrick; two twenty-one-year-old dudes talking sh*t with a guitar and a drumkit.

Youth is the new single. What is the tale behind the song?

Youth is about a lot of things - growing up; not fitting in; regretting inaction and regretting action. It’s melancholic nostalgia in the key of Dm.

It seems like it holds personal anger and struggle. Was it quite cathartic ‘letting it all out’, as it were?!

For sure. There have been a lot of shows where we get to that ending moment and I let a bit too much emotion out in those lines and lose my voice for the whole outro. A dangerous song, but it feels amazing.

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Will there be more material coming a little later? What are you working on?

We are writing a bunch of new stuff at the moment. Not really sure what it is, what it’s for and when it will be heard. But, if you catch us live you'll get to enjoy them a lot sooner.

How did cleopatrick start life? When did you start making music?

Ian and I met and instantly became best friends on the first day of junior kindergarten at the tender age of four. We started making music four years later, when we turned eight, and our parents got us both semi-matching acoustic guitars. Cleopatrick started when we graduated high-school.

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Ontario is your base. What is the area like for local talent and great venues?

Ontario is where it’s at right now for emerging guitar bands. Some people like to think otherwise but the musicians in this scene are some of the most creative, hardworking and incredibly talented artists we have ever met. Some great bands that are clearly about to blow up; I’m talking Ready the Prince, The Kents; Texas King - the list goes on and on.

In terms of music; what do you listen to when not recording your own?

We listen to a lot of stuff. I've been obsessed with Anderson .Paak for the last six months of my life. BROCKHAMPTONs Saturation trilogy. The new Arctic Monkeys record is fucki*g unreal. Anything cool and real.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Well. I was hoping we’d become the top-grossing artist in the world so I could buy a motorcycle, but it looks like we are running out of time in 2018 to make that happen. So, pushing that to next year, I think we are just looking to make some awesome memories with our friends and share our art with as many new people as possible. Also, maybe quit our day jobs…

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

We threw an insane house-party in my living room for the Daphne Did It music video. It was exclusively friends and long-time cleo supporters. That was genuinely the best night of my life. Looking out and seeing so many beautiful people that have helped push my dreams into reality.

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

Probably Post Malone.

Our rider would only state that he has to hang out with us in the green room for, like, fifteen minutes - All for Instagram.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make music that you think is dope. Say things that give you a weird but cool feeling in your chest - and make it about having fun with your friends. Nothing matters. You’re pinned down to a rock in space.

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Where can we see you tour before the end of the year?

19.09: Cologne, Germany – Studio 672

21.09: Hamburg, Germany - Reeperbahn Festival

28.09: Huddersfield - The Parish

29.09: Nottingham – Rockcity Hey Hey Hey

30.09: Glasgow - King Tut’s

02.10: Cardiff - Clwb Ifor Bach

03.10: Birmingham - Sunflower Longue

04.10: Leeds – Oporto

06.10: Manchester - Neighbourhood Festival

07.10: London - Communion Club Night

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ready the Prince

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ready the Prince.

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

Hangout with our friends; talking about Drake with Sanjay; making dumb jokes in my basement; drinking SoCIAL LITE with Jake Shorten.

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).

Dead Roads by Ready the Prince

Stoned Love by dubé

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Follow cleopatrick

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INTERVIEW: Moon

INTERVIEW:

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Moon

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TO start the week…

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I have been speaking with Chicago’s Moon about their new album, Extinction, and what sort of themes inspired it; the guys each choose their favourite song from the record – I was keen to know how the band got together and how they feel their sound has developed.

David, Shen and Chris recommend some new artists and reveal their ambitions for the rest of the year; which artists have been important to them; if there are gigs booked in the diary; whether they are coming to the U.K. to play – they each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Chris Schneberger: Good! We got together for the first time since our album release show on 9th June and we discussed some show ideas and where we want to take our sound going forward.

David Azizinamini: Good, busy.

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

David: Singer and guitar player…

Shen (Chris Shen): I’m Shen, the bassist...

Chris: I’m Chris, the drummer. I hit stuff with sticks. As for the band, I describe our sound as heavy, melodic; propulsive guitar-driven Indie-Rock with touches of Shoegaze and Prog.

Extinction is your new album. What sort of themes inspired it?

David: Extinction of life...though that seems super-obvious; it's also metaphorical; the extinction of past memories, past times; this climate we are in, politically, in the U.S. is terrifying to me. But, even beyond that, our consumption, our self-serving desires…they all were themes to me in writing the lyrics.

Is there a track from the album you all gravitate towards?

Chris: There’s Light Here is the single and very energetic, a real rocker. But, I hope people discover the song, Siberian. It’s one of my favorite songs we’ve ever written.

David: I love Revolutions, musically, but I feel Siberian, lyrically, more. Again, the reckless abandon of war and destruction were in my mind when I wrote it.

Shen: I like them all (obviously) but, if I had to choose one, I’d say Siberian is the most Moon-esque song since it contains a lot of our qualities: long, spacious; multiple parts, shifts between heavy and mellow.

 

This is your third record. How do you feel you have developed since your formation?

Shen: We’re writing at a higher level more consistently; less material that feels like B-sides - that comes the longer you play together as a unit. We’ve also worked a bit more straight-Rock into our sound (songs like There’s Light Here and Wishlist).

David: I felt like I knew what I wanted more...I became comfortable with the fact that we are a different kind of band so I just embraced who WE are instead of hoping to sound like what I thought people wanted. “Do you” as we say! (Smiles).

Chris: Definitely, more concise songwriting. That, and incorporating the influence of Donna Summer…

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When did that formation happen? When did Moon get together?

Chris: Around December 2008, I was advertising for local musicians to play with and got together with David and a bass player I had previously tried out with, Pat LaRose. Pat was a very melodic player and went along great with David’s echo-drenched, chiming style. Within the year, we were playing some small shows and recorded a three-song E.P.

Pat was with us for a few years and we recorded our first full-length album and another E.P. with him. Then, he left for New York and we found Shen. He’s an incredibly talented player and we’ve recorded two more studio albums with him.

Do you all share musical tastes? What sort of sounds do you listen to?

Chris: I think our tastes overlap but aren’t all the same. For instance, Shen and I share a love for some Metal and Prog like Rush and Iron Maiden but I’m really a child of '90s Indie-Rock. Some of my favorite bands are from that era - like Superchunk, Poster Children; Archers of Loaf, Number One Cup and Built to Spill.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Dot Morton

David: Chris and Shen are more like-minded than me. They love the Classic Rock stuff but I have limited information about that kind of music. I grew up listening to ABBA and top-40 Pop radio like Michael Jackson. When I was nine or so, I got into Punk and listened to the Dead Kennedys religiously. From there, it was really anything with melody and washy guitars: Bleach and In Utero by Nirvana…and then it was Radiohead, Elliott Smith; Jeff Buckley, Circa Survive; Slowdive: anthemic, epic bands with great singers and lovely melodies.

Shen: I came upon Heavy Metal like Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and early-Metallica but I also like some bands that could be considered as the start of Emo and Alternative like Jane’s Addiction, Sunny Day Real Estate and Quicksand.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Dot Morton

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

David: Tackling the Midwest United States right now.

Chris: Also; we’d love to support a touring band.

Do you reckon you’ll come to the U.K. and perform this year?

Chris: Haven’t you seen us there? We exclusively play random phone boxes in the town of Barnsley. I’m sorry you haven’t been witness to one of these. They’ve been packed houses! In all seriousness, we would love to come to the U.K. We await the invite from Hammersmith Odeon soon.

David: I'd love to...all of my favorite bands are from there it seems. Maybe, a bill with Radiohead and Wolf Alice!

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

David: Promoting Extinction and writing more; introducing new elements into the music as well. I love being in a three-piece but I love when three-pieces introduce layers...probably why I love The Joy Formidable.

Chris: We’re hoping to play more shows and to more people. The new album is getting heard and the response has been great. We just want to play to crowds of like-minded music listeners. Plus, the end of this year will mark our tenth anniversary - and we’d like to celebrate that with a big show.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Rzewnkicki

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

David: Singing Mountain Song by Janes Addiction when I was in 9th grade in my friend's basement for a birthday party. It was my first time playing with other musicians. They wouldn't let me be in the band though...said I didn't move around enough. Fu*k those guys! (Laughs).

Chris: I think my favorite memory was playing a show at the Empty Bottle, my favorite club in Chicago, where I’ve seen countless great bands and looking up at David during my favorite instrumental passage in our song, Losing the Light. We shared a smile and I was just so happy to be making this music that I loved with people that I love.

Shen: One of my favorite memories is a recent one: the day I got my copy of Extinction. I really like the way it turned out. I just think it sounds how we’re supposed to sound. It’s hard to capture a band in the studio but I think we accomplished that on this. As far as all of the recordings I’ve been a part of, this one is definitely one of my favorites.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Rzewnkicki

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

David: I'd support Radiohead and I'd only request to sing Scatterbrain with Thom.

Chris: I would support Superchunk (since Rush is retired) and insist we do a pre-show shot of Malort. It’s an awful, bitter digestif drink found in Chicago. You shoot it, chase it with an Old Style (cheap beer) and yell “LET’S GO HAWKS!” (Chicago Blackhawks (hockey team), that is.)

Shen: I’d love to have Hawaiian Sun Passion Fruit juice at every show. I grew up in Hawaii drinking it and it’s my absolute favorite - and it’s hard to find on the mainland so, if someone could supply it for me that would be awesome.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Rzewnkicki

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Chris: Get started early, go full-bore and have fun. Keep your standards high and your expectations low.

David: Do it 100%. Do not give a s*it about cars or houses that your friends buy or hope to buy; eat and breathe music, write every day...tour till you can't move...then do it again.

Shen: You have to try to find that balance between having fun but also being serious and smart. If you’re all business, you’ll miss out on some joys of playing music but, if you’re having too much fun and not thinking enough about the business end you may miss some opportunities.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

David: Protomartyr!

Chris: There are so many great bands right here in Chicago. My current favorite is RLYR but I also recommend Rocket Miner, Huntsmen and Polarizer.

Shen: We Killed the Lion from Chicago is one of my current favorites. I also really like A Friend Called Fire - also from Chicago.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: A Friend Called Fire

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

David: I work at the greatest music shop in the world (Chicago Music Exchange), so I suppose that's how I chill: around music.

Chris: Honestly, music is my way to unwind. I teach at three-four different colleges and that keeps me really busy. The band is an escape. Otherwise, maybe travel and movies.

Shen: I don’t have much free time between work and music but, when I do, I try to get outdoors and go hiking, fishing; swimming and surfing.

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).

Chris: Slipstream Summer by RLYR

David: Wheel of Fortune by Protomartyr (ft. Kelley Deal)

Shen: Galaxy Girl by We Killed the Lion

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Follow Moon

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INTERVIEW: Bryony Williams

INTERVIEW:

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Bryony Williams

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I doubt there are many busier artists…

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out there than Bryony Williams! Not only is her new E.P., Conscious, out – which she talks about – but she is involved with GRRRL GROANNN!!!? Williams discusses her new music and releasing her first (with her team) zine; what she thinks of the modern music scene - Williams tells me whether she gets time to chill away from music-making.

I ask whether there are any tour dates coming; which artists have been important to Williams; whether there are upcoming artists worth some time; which three albums mean the most to her – Williams talks about ambitions she wants to fulfil before the end of the year.

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

Hey. I am great, thank you! Well; I’m currently on tour around the U.K. so this week is full of travelling, seeing new places; meeting new people, mini golf; happy hours…oh, and performing of course!

So, you could say I’m living my best life right now.

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

Sure! Well. My lyrics will most likely make you contemplate; their melodies will get ridiculously stuck in your head and, if you like to air-drumming, then you’re in the right place: think early-Wolf Alice with a dash of Lucy Rose and a sprinkle of Hazel English.

The video for Narrative Form is out. What can you reveal about its inception and creation?

Narrative Form is definitely not single material: it’s potentially the most unconventional track from the E.P.! So, with that in mind, I wanted to explore more abstract ideas in terms of visuals. It started when I was travelling back from Liverpool and there were blankets of snow across all the fields for as long as you could see - and I just knew I needed to have some outdoor/snow shots for a video. Then, instead of going straight home, I went and hired a camera out to do some bath test shots at home. I experimented with different lamps for lighting and lighting paper on fire to signify conflict and contrast with the bath water - which I advise anybody not to do because I nearly set the place on fire. I scrapped that idea.

Then, I just put out a Facebook status and my pals from Second City Capture took the bait. We shot in next-to minus temperatures, had food colouring poured into my mouth multiple times and laid in swamp/marshland in Cannock Chase for the drone shots which is a visual idea I’ve had ever since I watched the video to Jenny Hval - Conceptual Romance…except the girl would be nude with dirt smeared in certain areas across the body.

But, I kept it P.G. this time…

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Anyway; the premise of the video is that there kind of…isn’t one. It’s open to anyone’s interpretation. Though, for me, it’s a very self-reflective and has feminist connotations – using the body as an object, as a piece of art as well as somebody’s idea of a piece of meat.
There’s also, definitely, some influence from the film Neon Demon. So, for fans of art house and avant-garde; you know what to do.

You should check out my single video, too! Again; directed by myself. This is for those who love a good road trip.

It is from the E.P., Conscious. What sort of ideas and stories compelled it?

The record is my coming-of-age soundtrack. It’s full of stories about hardcore lust, romance; manipulation and escapism. The stories are all real and are related to me but can often be told through a different narrative - that of somebody else’s persona.

I hear shades of artists like Marika Hackman in your work. Who do you count as idols and guides?

Well, thank you. Ah. I have to say icons like Joan Jett, PJ Harvey; Patti Smith, Anastacia; Elizabeth Frazer, Suzi Quatro; Theresa Wayman, Grimes; Kim Gordon and Viv Albertine. Through autobiographies to their music to their personalities and presentation, they all have me so encompassed and in awe of their journey from start to present.

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When did music come into your life? Who do you grow up around?

Music has always been part of my upbringing. My dad is a huge music fanatic and collects autographs, vinyl and posters – you name it! Which has, inevitably, been passed down onto me. I grew up listening to a lot of Prog-Rock, Roxy Music; Brit-Pop (Genesis, The Beatles; Blur, Nirvana and Empire of the Sun). My earliest childhood memory is seeing Macca’s Live and Let Die Tour - I was five at the time...

So, obviously, I wanted to be a Rockstar!

When I was nine, my dad took me to a music shop to scout out my first guitar; the salesman suggested a cute pink one…I thought ‘get real!’ and pulled on my dad’s shirt and pointed to the red one. We left with a ¾ neck-sized red Strat and here I am now…just with a couple more guitars in my possession.

What do you think of the modern scene? Do you think female songwriters get the credit and respect they deserve?

I can see a lot of empowering women in the scenes I’m involved/observing: artists such as Dream Wife, Laura Mvula; Courtney Barnett etc. It’s getting better (as everyone says in every interview…) but I’m not sure about the respect. Sure, there’s respect from the majority of audience members, music lovers; supporters etc but there's simply some absolutely assholes out there who, without thinking, will treat an artist different because of their gender. It’s a heavy mix of underestimation, ignorance and self-entitlement.

Talk to me about GRRRL GROANNN!!!? How did that come to be and why did you establish it?

GRRRL GROANNN!!! became an idea last summer while choosing my modules for the following semester. Music Innovation was the class and we had to come up with an idea of disruption which is where it all came from. I formed a business plan and pitched its purpose - which is to establish a female collective specialising in music.

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There were the initial, smaller plans such as publishing seasonal music zines, monthly podcasts interviewing inspiring women; creating merch, a website and overall evolving into an independent record label; recording, promoting and distributing artists (who happen to be female) - with potential to host our own gig nights around the U.K. Perhaps, even, having our own festival similar to Lady Fest, Lilith Fair and Riot Grrrl antics.

So far, we have released our first music zine! This includes all gig photography done by me and interviews with Jen Cloher, Peach Club and Riot Grrrl Sessions (in Sweden). So, I guess call me the editor-in-chief! I worked with my good and highly talented friend Jess Webberly who designed the layout, our official logo and the cover design. I’m currently working on the next music zine, which has photos of ShitKid, U.S. Girls and Goat Girl so far.

I’m using this zine edition to also sell Conscious on C.D. to be cost-effective and to kill two birds with one stone. Like my music? Want a physical purchase? Cool. Have a personalised, burned C.D. copy and here have a music-infused zine, too! How cool!

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

I’m on tour right now!

8th July – Good Neighbour, London

9th July – Singleshot, Leeds

10th July – Centrala, Birmingham (my official E.P. Launch)

After the tour, I’m playing at The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham (8th November) and will be planning another U.K. tour as a band to tour the E.P. in its full bliss this autumn - so, keep your eyes peeled for that.

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

Lots!

I’ll be working on my producing skills in my home studio, songwriting for my next record; touring Conscious, curating the next GRRRL GROANNN!!! zine and look into making some podcasts. I really want to start a podcast between my dad and his good pal Steve – together, they can talk about music forever and recall such amazing gig stories. So, it’d be great to record their music memoirs.

Then, besides all the creative drive, I plan to start my Masters in Sociology of Popular Culture – the aim is to become a published musicologist and I’ll be satisfied once I’ve been on TED Talks.

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

Honestly: it all merges into a big blur for me. There’s the making of the music videos, performing; being in the studio…but all of that has a thing in common and that’s being introduced to new people and contributing to various social communities within the arts. It’s heart-warming to collectively achieve these creative experiences.

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

Jen Cloher – Jen Cloher

Still Corners – Strange Pleasures

Beach House – Bloom

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep your momentum, go with your gut; shout about yourself – don’t be shy. There’s so much competition in regards to the volume of music that is being released constantly. It’s such a tough game so you have to believe in yourself and make others believe in you too.

Get a record out there, perform; sell merch, get creative and don’t go over your budget.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Sunset Beach Hut

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently met a young producer and artist, Kiera Carter, at a music conference not so long ago – she’s currently studying in Wolverhampton and she’s onto a few things. I’d keep my eye on her.

Then; I gotta say The Sunset Beach Hut and The Hungry Ghosts.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Hungry Ghosts/PHOTO CREDIT: Indie Images Photography

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

Hmmm; I don’t think I do! The closest I’ve got is when I was at Primavera this year as I was in full festival mode and I needed my phone battery for survival in case I got lost! So, checking emails was a rarity. I take refuge at my girlfriend’s place because it makes me realise that I need to appreciate the beauty of sitting outside with a G&T without the itch of having to be doing something productive. (Drinking gin is surely productive enough?).

But, even then I’ll take my laptop wherever with me answering interviews, radio plugs and all the lovely PR stuff because it ain’t gonna do itself - and this gal doesn’t have a team behind her. (Yet!).

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).

Oooooo! Okay, okay….

Chastity Belt – Different Now

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Follow Bryony Williams

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