INTERVIEW: Tyler Hilton

INTERVIEW:

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Tyler Hilton

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THE tremendous Tyler Hilton…

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has been chatting with me about his latest single City on Fire, and what its story is. The track is taken from the songwriter’s album of the same name (due out in the autumn). I ask the U.S. songwriter about his acting work and the importance of performing and writing in Nashville.

Hilton discusses performing in the U.K. (the interview was sent out before he embarked on a small tour of the U.K.) and whether he has any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year; which three albums he ranks as favourites – he recommends a musician we should all spend some time listening to.

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

I’m happy and tired - and this last week feels like it’s lasted a whole month. Haha! But, I’m in a different country every day right now and, when I should be sleeping, I’m cramming in lots of sightseeing!

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

Probably best to search me on Spotify and hit ‘shuffle’ - I’m always unsure how to describe my sound. I’ve been writing and singing since I was young. I come from Southern California and was raised on Folk music in a family of musicians, so I’m influenced by a lot of stuff!

 

City on Fire is new. What is the story behind the song?

It’s a murder-ballad about a man losing everything and struggling with revenge. To me, it’s a metaphor for a lot that’s being lost right now and our reaction to it.

Might we see some more music come before the end of the year?

Oh...I think you definitely will (smiles).

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I get a feeling Rock and Country and important genres. What sort of music are you into? Did you connect with music quite young?

I connected with it super-young. Elvis (Presley) was my entry into everything: Blues, Gospel; Rock and Country. Then, from there, I found favorites in each genre and just became obsessed with them for different periods when I was building myself. Filming Walk the Line felt like I was getting to bring all those pieces together.

I understand you have roots in Nashville. How important is the city to you? Is it where you feel at your purest and best?

Yea. Nashville is a very important character in my life and this new record. Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood from Lady Antebellum used to be my roommates down there. It was those good times that led Charles and I (to wanna) chase that again on this record!

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How does your acting work tie with your music? Is there an acting role that stands out to you?

Being in movies is a blast. I love acting. I love being part of a whole new world. It’s like a vacation from myself. I get such good perspective stepping into a life that isn’t me. I think it has helped my writing, for sure.

Hard to top playing Elvis for me, though.

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

Check TylerHilton.com for dates. I’m touring all year!

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You’re coming over to the U.K. Do you like British music?

Yes - and I love their taste in music. Some of my favorite artists have found audiences with the Brits when no one else was getting it.

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

To be home as little as possible. Haha! The new record’s done and I wanna play this thing for people!

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

Opening for Keith Urban and John Mayer was insane to me. The three of us together was my dream show! I love both their music and feel like I’m somewhere right between them.

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

Muddy Waters’ I’m Ready; Bob Dylan’s Another Side of Bob Dylan and Blake Mills’ Break Mirrors.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep writing bad songs: they might not be as bad as you think. Don’t just try and write ‘good’ ones. I feel like the part of us that judges can be bullsh*t.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Blake Mills

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Blake Mills has two records out and I have become obsessed with both!

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

I walk a lot, watch movies; read, hang with people; talk a lot of sh*t and laugh a lot, I guess?! (Smiles).

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).

Blake Mills - It’ll All Work Out

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INTERVIEW: Hannah Trigwell

INTERVIEW:

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Hannah Trigwell

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HER album, RED, arrives…

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on 31st August, so I have been speaking with Hannah Trigwell about the record and whether there is a song she would highlight as a standout. Trigwell discusses her busking days and how her career has progressed; which artists were important to her growing up – the songwriter talks about her YouTube videos and the reaction they have gained.

I ask Trigwell which three albums are important to her; if there is a current artist she’d like to support on tour; what sort of gigs are approaching – she ends the interview by selecting an awesome song.

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

Hi! I’m very well, thanks. How are you? My week has been very busy so far: recording vocals for a song coming out later this year and editing a new music video!

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

My name is Hannah Trigwell - I’m a singer-songwriter from Leeds. My style of music is acoustic-driven Pop but I’m influenced by a lot of different genres and artists!

RED is your upcoming album. What sort of stories inspired the record? Is there a reason for that title, too?

The reason I’ve called the album RED is because it really sums up a lot of the emotions behind the songs: love, lust; anger and jealousy. There is also a track on the album called Red, which is about feeling like you are addicted to someone.

Is there a song from the album that stands as a highlight?

Taboo is one of my favourites. I wrote it quite a while ago and the initial sound of this song influenced the rest of the album. That track has elements of a lot of different types of music and I think it’s an interesting listen - but, I really connected with the whole concept of love being taboo, too. It was very therapeutic to write.

Is it true you started in music by busking?! How did you progress from busking to recording your own music?

I started busking in my hometown and did most days for about a year before uploading videos of my performances to YouTube and reaching an international audience. Whilst I was performing covers during street performances and on YouTube, people were asking me if I could release some of my original music - the demand for it gave me the confidence to start putting out original singles.

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Many might recognise you from your videos on YouTube. How does it feel knowing so many people have seen your videos? Has that given you a lot of confidence?

It’s amazing to see how many people have watched the videos or streamed my music online! The numbers still blow my mind. The positive feedback (and constructive criticisms) gave me the confidence to start touring and also helped me improve in terms of playing guitar and singing. I’m self-taught so, in the early days, I got some comments specifically about things I was doing right or wrong and that really helped me progress.

Which artists did you grow up listening to? Do you recall when music first came into your life?

When I was younger, I loved a big range of artists including M People, Eternal; Blue, the Eagles and Michael Jackson - a lot of it was rooted in Pop and I think that has really affected the way that I write songs now. I remember buying an M People E.P. - that was my first C.D. and I thought it was so cool! I also had an obsession with Simply Red for a while. Phil Collins is still a big influence on my music.

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

I hope to have truly made my stamp with original music - so that people really get my style and who I am as an artist. I know I’ve kind of drip-fed my audience with original music; averaging about one single release a year and so I can appreciate how it might have been hard to truly understand me as a musician – but, now I have a fourteen-track album, I’m so excited to see the reaction.

Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

Yes! I’m on tour across the U.K. in the first two weeks of September - Glasgow, Nottingham; Leeds, Bristol; Brighton, London and Newcastle! Really looking forward to playing all of these new tunes. Then, I’ll be heading out to play mainland Europe - we have a bunch of international dates to announce soon!

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

I recently had quite a lengthy conversation with Quincy Jones at Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. He is a very nice guy and was very open with me straight away - we ended up talking about general life and different experiences we had had in music. He said to me that I should always make the kind of music that feels right and to go with my gut. I really needed to hear that! That’s an experience that will stay with me for a long time.

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Which three albums mean the most to you would you say (and why)?

Red Hot Chili Peppers - By the Way

I got this album when I was twelve and listened to it on-repeat during a family holiday climbing mountains in Austria. Every time I listen to it, it takes me back there. I had such an awesome time. That album really inspired me to start writing my own material.

Damien Rice - O

Just such an amazing album. You can really hear the emotion in these songs. Damien Rice got me into playing guitar and Acoustic/Folk music in general. I think this is one of the best albums ever.

Joyner Lucas - 508-507-2209

An album I got into early this year. This guy has made a masterpiece. I must have listened to this record about fifty times. The lyrics are so raw and real so I connected with it instantly.

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

I’d love to support Charlie Puth. I think his songwriting is awesome and all of the live performance videos I’ve seen of his are great. It’d be ace to share the stage with him!

My rider is pretty small, to be honest. A great rider for me would be bottles of water, good red wine; chicken salad chocolate and Yorkshire Tea.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be nice and take every opportunity. If you’re not nice you get a rep pretty quickly: the industry is a lot smaller than you think in terms of who knows who. Definitely don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. It’s easier than ever - pretty much everyone has a camera phone; you just have to be motivated enough to make it happen.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: HANNIE/PHOTO CREDIT: Fay Summerfiel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently co-wrote a track with HANNIE (an Electro/Pop/guitar duo) - definitely check them out. They have some awesome funky tunes.

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

A little, not a lot! I love being outside. Hiking is something that really calms my mind. I like to watch movies. I often get inspiration for songwriting doing that too.

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

Ariana Grande - God Is a Woman, please! It is my current obsession

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INTERVIEW: Mikey Wax

INTERVIEW:

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Mikey Wax

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THE excellent and massively popular Mikey Wax…

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has been talking with me about his new single, Big Little Life, and how it started life. I ask about the video and what it was like to film; what the secret to his success is; if there is going to be more material arriving; which artists Mikey Wax would count as idols.

I ask the U.S. songwriter about L.A. and how important it is regarding his songwriting; whether there are any gigs coming up; an upcoming artist we should get behind and support; if he has any favourite memories from his career so far – Mikey Wax tells me how he spends his time away from music.

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

I am swell...a word I don't often use but I’m trying to bring back in my vocabulary. My week has been excellent too, thanks.

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

I'm a singer/songwriter from N.Y. I’ve been playing the piano and writing songs since I was eight. I now live in L.A. and write Pop songs by day and entertain my wife and our two cats by night.

What can you reveal about your new single, Big Little Life? How did it start life?

Big Little Life was a song I wrote for my fiancé that I intended to surprise her with on our wedding. I thought the concept was cool because, for most ‘young adults’, you don't have everything figured out yet. Despite not being able to afford all the things we want, we have each other and that's all you really need.

The video is intricate and lush. Did it take a while to put together? What was it like to film?

Thanks. The video came together pretty quick actually. The directors and I had a pretty clear-cut vision of what it had to be. We filmed it in our house, removed all the furniture and everything and slowly built it back up. It captured the spirit of the song and it felt very ‘real’ filming in the actual house I live in.

Is there going to be any more material coming before the end of the year?

I have a lot of songs I'm wrapping up. I'd say, yes, there will be more music later this year.

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You have gained countless streams, kudos and nods by fans and big names. What is the secret to your success would you say?!

It's a bunch of factors coming together. I think, first and foremost, having a well-written and produced song is at the core. But, almost equally important is having a good team of people who believe in your project.

Which artists do you rank as idols? Were you exposed to music quite early in life?

I have a lot of idols. I've tried to emulate a lot of artists in the process of getting to a point where you almost stop caring and can just be yourself. My first obsession as a kid was The Beatles; Countless hours repeating The White Album (The Beatles) and Abbey Road. Next up was Billy Joel who, in my opinion, doesn't get enough clout with younger writers. The guy is a legend! I went through a deep love for the Dave Matthews Band.

Many, many others….

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How important are L.A. and its people in regards your own music? Do you take from the sound and sights around you?

I moved to L.A. a little over a year ago. I think the change has had a really great effect on my music, mood and lifestyle etc. Don't get me wrong...N.Y.C. will always be home, but there is a real collaborative process out here in L.A. which makes the songs stronger. The sunshine makes you want to get out and drive to a writing session. I live in Pasadena, which is pretty suburban, but the trees and grass are inspiring. The streets, buildings and bridges of N.Y.C. are equally inspiring but I was ready for a change.

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

It's a great question and, to be honest, I often don't set enough short-term goals. I always think, years out, what I'd like to have achieved by that time. I think, for the remaining five or so months of the year, I'd like to see Big Little Life continue to reach more listeners; land a prominent spot in a commercial or movie; more Spotify playlists on top of the ones it’s already gotten. I actually just found out the song will be featured in the season finale of A&E’s Born This Way this fall, so that’s definitely an exciting look. I'd also like to release one or two more songs.

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Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

At the moment I've been taking a break from the road to hone my songwriting and really have a large bunch of songs that can sustain my career for a long time. There is a time for the road, but right now my mind is 100% in a creative space and I want to put all my energy towards creating music, as well as relationships, personal stuff, etc.

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

There have been so many - at times I look back to an experience on tour or early on in a studio session and think ‘Was that really me?’ There was one show I played in L.A. where the legendary music exec Seymour Stein came to see me play (I also performed in his office a few weeks prior). He was very supportive.

Although he and I never ended up working together, he told me that I had a strong future, which was a confidence booster I needed at the time to keep going.  It also was great when Aaron Rodgers came to my gig at Hotel Café after discovering my music online. Overall, hearing words of encouragement from people so accomplished is humbling.

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

I should be ashamed but, for the past ten years, I haven't been much of an album listener. In Pop music writing sessions, we sort of study singles. Albums I play in their entirety are usually much older records like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald and Frank Sinatra. When I'm in the mood for Frank, I'll play his record straight through.

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

It would be a childhood dream to open up for Billy Joel, John Mayer or The Dave Matthews Band.

I wouldn't need a rider. Actually, maybe, just some paper towels in case I throw up from being so nervous playing in front of those legends.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Have a support system - people who care and love you and will be there for you no matter what.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Brooke Williams

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yeah. I wrote a cool song with this artist Brooke Williams. She's releasing a record soon. I like her sound a lot!

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

Yeah. I always find some time to unwind and distract myself which is important because life as a musician isn't always the most stable. I have a really supportive wife and two really cute cats that do a great job at making me laugh and put my music mind to rest.

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

How about Good Vibrations by The Beach Boys

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INTERVIEW: Tiny Eyes

INTERVIEW:

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Tiny Eyes

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IT has been great speaking with Joel (Tiny Eyes)…

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about his incredible new single, Just Saying, and  its memorable, vivid video. He discusses the hot weather and how it is impacting him; whether there is more material coming down the line; some of the artists/sounds that has inspired him – he shares a fond memory involving Scott Matthews.

I ask Joel whether he has advice for artists coming through and how his music has changed since the start; if he chills away from music and has time to unwind – he recommends an artist we should invest some more time in.

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Hi, Tiny Eyes. How are you? How has your week been?

Hot! With all the crazy heatwave temperatures my week has mostly been spent melting.

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

Er, hi. I’m Joel, A.K.A. Tiny Eyes. I write songs on my piano and I make noises with things I find around my house and I put it all together on my laptop. It’s proper, old-fashioned songwriting stitched together into a collage of acoustic instruments, lo-fi synths and home-made samples.

How are you taking to all this hot weather? Is it compelling songwriting and energy – or is it a bit draining?!

Well. It’s so hot that my piano’s gone out of tune - so I’m on an enforced songwriting break at the moment. I don’t mind, though - I’ve got a stockpile of songs which I stashed away last winter like some kind of crazy squirrel. I can wait until the weather is cold and dark again before I write some more. In the meantime, I can enjoy the sunshine and tell people about my new tune…

Just Saying is out. What is the inspiration behind the song?

Erm. It’s kind of a day-to-day love song. So many songs are written about the beginning or the end of relationships. I decided to write about what happens in the middle:  the 99% of everyday life that just gets ignored. So, it’s like randomly-chosen slice through my life…waking up with a hangover, then a bit of existential angst; saying things to wind up your partner…a typical day without any high drama.

Is there more material coming down the tracks? What are you working on?

Shhh! It’s all secret! Yes. I’ve got a queue of songs that I’m waiting to record, for a debut album that’ll be out next year. I’m pretty excited about the way it’s taking shape, although there’s a fair bit of work still to be done before I can let it out into the wild. There will be another single or two out before the album, too, so plenty to look forward to in the next few months.

Do you think your music has evolved and shifted since you first started? What are the main lessons you have learned?

I suppose it’s always evolving and shifting in subtle ways but, really, that’s something I don’t try to think about too much. If you worry about that, there’s a danger you’ll end up trying too hard to be clever and different and you forget about making something that’s actually good.

As far as learning lessons; I try not to learn too much. Nothing feeds the creative process better than stumbling around like an idiot, making mistakes; playing the wrong notes, saying the wrong words. Try to look at it all with a kind of wide-eyed wonder. That’s where all of the best new ideas come from - and I never want to cut myself off from that.

Which musicians did you grow up around? Did your parents introduce you to a lot of different artists?

Yeah. My parents have great taste in music. They introduced me to loads of good stuff when I was growing up from The Beatles to Tom Waits to Bowie to Radiohead.  I’ve always had a very musical circle of friends - we were always in bands, trying to write our own songs; learning how to record, often failing spectacularly but having a lot of fun.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Stay alive...

Anything else is a bonus…but, recording the rest of the album should probably figure in there somewhere.

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

This sounds like we should be in an awards ceremony, for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame or something, with me looking back across a long and illustrious career: “Well; I suppose there was that time when Jagger and Richards covered that tune, you know; the one off my third album”…but, to be honest, some of the best fun I’ve had so far was shooting this latest video, wandering around the neighbourhood in a monster costume. Some of the looks from passers-by were priceless.

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

Well. That’s a bit of a moot point because Tiny Eyes isn’t a live project. Not for the time being, at least. I’m not convinced that it’s a good idea to meet your idols anyway. What if you really hate them when you meet them in person?! Sometimes it’s better not to have that illusion shattered! Having said that; Martha (Bean) and I did get the chance to support Scott Matthews once. An utterly captivating performer and a genuinely great guy. Seriously tall, too - I’m about six-foot-one and I felt like a proper short-arse talking to him.

With riders, I’ve come from a background where any kind of gig rider is a bonus. The idea of charging in and demanding loads of awkward stuff just feels plain wrong. Food? Anything that isn’t sandwiches or crisps. Oh, and as many cups of tea as I can drink. I’ll take that bottle of whisky, though, if you’re offering.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

How about making some great music?

Don’t just settle for being a half-decent copy of an artist you like. Make a record that’s so good people crash their cars when it comes on the radio. Be wary of most advice, too…even if something worked for somebody else; it doesn’t mean it’ll work for you. If your gut says to do something and other people tell you to do the opposite, ignore them and follow your gut. Have the courage and the patience to make your own mistakes. It always pays off.

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

I don’t perform my music live but I do massively enjoy sharing the songs with the world.

What kind of buzz do I get? Picture a raging hive of killer bees being attacked simultaneously with a blowtorch and a chainsaw - something like that.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Andy Shauf/PHOTO CREDIT: Geoff Fitzgerald

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

It’s a couple of years old now, but I’ve recently discovered Andy Shauf’s album, The Party, and it’s definitely my go-to album at the moment.

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

Yeah. What’s that saying 'action drives out thought'? So; I try not to be too busy. I play a few five-a-side football matches every week. Sometimes, I go to foreign countries. I drink Mezcal. I add fresh chillies to everything. I set up troll accounts on Instagram - and I have a very comfortable hammock strung up in my back garden.

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. As I mentioned him earlier; how about Virginia by Scott Matthews? One of my favourite-ever songs - devastatingly good

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INTERVIEW: FINE POINTS

INTERVIEW:

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FINE POINTS

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MY mind turns to FINE POINTS…

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as they talk with me about their current single, Ready & Able, and their fresh record, Take Shape. Evan from the band discusses the record’s themes and what it was like working with producer Jason Carmer; how the band found one another – he chats about the scene in L.A. right now.

I was eager to learn what sort of music Evan grew up around and what gigs the band have coming up; if there is any chance of them all coming over to the U.K. – Evan recommends a current artist we should all seek out.

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

Evan: Hey. It’s pretty good! We just hopped in the van and are now officially on tour. Something strange happened this morning before we left, though. When we went to pick up our trailer, we noticed that the lock was smashed and there was a man living inside of it. His name was ‘Big Country’ and he had a bejewelled crown on his head. Some kind policeman eventually convinced him to leave and we were off!

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

Yo! We do dreamy jams with guitars, drums and synthesizers. (‘“We like to play” - Garth)

Talk to me about the song Ready & Able. What is the story behind the song?

This one is about seizing the moment and making moves when something inspires you. One life to live, you guys/gals. Our friend, Hannah Moriah, is beautifully featured and made this track something really special.

It is from your sophomore album, Take Shape. Are there particular themes that inspired the music? Do you all have a favourite cut from the record?

Being abducted by the future and the power of letting go….

My fave cut is The Fang. It was the first tune we recorded and the tracking process was so natural/easy. This was not always the case as we recorded the remainder of the album. It’s a dedication to a pal of mine that passed away last year.

What was it like working with Jason Carmer on the album? What did he bring to the record in terms of input and expertise?

Carmer brings in a high level of recording experience and knowledge of songcraft. He helped us spit-shine the jams and left sparkles on everything.

How did FINE POINTS get together? Were you all playing around L.A. in different bands?

Matt and I put together F.P. on our breaks from touring with Sleepy Sun. Josh (Drums) and Owen (Bass/Keys) have become an integral part of our ‘sound,’ as well. We’ve got a new keyboard player named Nick who is slaying. We live in the Bay area and all of us are involved in an array of musical and art projects.

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Give me a sense of the artists you grew up around. Who inspired you to get into music?

Neil Young and Velvet Underground are the big ones for me. They make beautiful Pop music but also have really fuck*d up/abrasive moments in their songwriting. I love that balancing act.

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

Play the tunes out as much as we can. Sell some units.

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

Neil Young live in Barcelona at Primavera Sound. I’ve never seen someone head-bang as much as he did that night.

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

I try to support all peeps that are making music. It’s a tough gig these days. My rider is al pastor tacos and Mezcal.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Sounds cheesy but do it because you love it. If there’s another reason in your head (money, fame etc.) you’re kinda fuck*d.

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

A West Coast U.S tour is happening right now. Check www.finepointsmusic.com for dates.

Do you think you will come to the U.K. and play at all?

Would love to! I’ve been craving a full English breakfast. Fly us out?

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IN THIS PHOTO: Vince Staples

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Vince Staples.

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

Not really. I usually chill with music. Mexican cuisine helps.

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).

Evan: Mulatu Astatke – Mulatu

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INTERVIEW: Club Paradise

INTERVIEW:

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Club Paradise

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THE guys of Club Paradise have been speaking with me…

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about their new release, Brother, and what its story is. I ask what the scene is like where they are in Newcastle upon Tyne; whether there is more material coming their way; if they are ready for the summer gig trail – they reveal the sort of music they grew up around.

I ask the guys if they get chance to unwind away from music and the advice they’d give artists coming through; which upcoming acts we need to get behind; what their fondest memories from music are – they each choose a track to end the interview with.

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

Nathan: Hi. We’re tremendous. It’s been such a pleasure seeing how people have reacted and warmed to the single since its release. We’re still over the moon with how the single launch went – so, that set this week up fantastically.

Jackson: Sweaty (to both)

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

We’re Club Paradise; a four-piece Indie-Rock band from Newcastle upon Tyne. I’m Ryan; I sing and play guitar; I’m Jackson I play guitar; I’m Nathan - the dummer; I’m Harry and I play bass!

Brother is your new tune. What is the story behind the song?

Ryan: The song principally is about greed - specifically, the story behind the Martin Shkreli drug price-hike scandal in America. That’s what came naturally and effortlessly when we wrote the song as it was going on at the time. Really, though, it can be applied, metaphorically, in other ways - how do you feel cheated?

It seems like it is ready for the summer and prepared to get a good tan! Do you have plans to get the song on the road?

We do! Although…we couldn’t possibly spoil the surprise just yet...

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You hail from Newcastle upon Tyne. What is the music scene like there? Do you think it gets the attention it deserves?

Nathan: It’s certainly growing, that’s for sure. There’s a sense of unity with the majority of bands up here; everybody understands, for the scene to grow, there needs to be a communal aspect. All the bands and music lovers up here support one another and the crowds understand good music when they hear it. We have a number of very slick venues - and the younger generation is making a big effort to get out in numbers to support local bands.

There are artists such as Sam Fender and The Pale White who are getting quite a name for themselves amongst the country; gaining momentum every day whilst sticking to their northern roots. So, attention is starting to arise.

Ryan: Yeah. I agree. It’s important to know that the scene was totally dead when we first arrived under a different guise a few years back but now to see it flourish the way it does is really exciting and a privilege to be a part of!

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What comes next for the band? Do Club Paradise have new material brewing?

Jackson: Absolutely. We have some bangers in the oven.

Nathan: We’re always writing new tunes. It keeps us refreshed knowing we can tweak the set and chop-and-change songs to keep things interesting for us and the people who come and see us. We opened our headline gig just gone with a new song that we love. It hasn’t got a name we’ve all settled on yet but it has a very engaging sample taken from an ‘80s coming-of-age film that fits it phenomenally. The song itself is nostalgic and anthemic and a joy to play live. We got goosebumps performing it.

Given that interesting name; is there a club, historic or music-based, you’d consider being ‘paradise’.

Ryan: for me, I’m not associating it that way. Our single launch party was the creation of Club Paradise - not only as the headline act but the start of its own place and the event name. We want to create Club Paradise for ourselves and have everyone else associate it with that. Our name is boundless…

Nathan: What springs to mind for me is a club located in Budapest named Corvinteto. I stumbled across it with my friends when I was travelling around Europe in May and fell in love with it instantaneously. It had everything: pulsating neon lights, ear-crumbling speakers; an idyllic rooftop overlooking the city and a real sense of togetherness with everybody who attended. I didn’t see one person not enjoying themselves - and that’s my idea of real paradise.

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Give me a sense of the music you all grew up around. If we combined your record collections; what might we find in there?

Harry: Favourite Worst Nightmare by Arctic Monkeys was the first album I bought. Klaxons really got me into Electronic music. I was really into Indie stuff.

Ryan: I’ve been surrounded by such a diverse selection growing up. My mother listens to Northern Soul and Motown, so I’m heavily into all that stuff - and a lot of Soul, too. At the same time, my dad listens to everything from Phil Collins to Duran Duran and I think that sort of stuff comes in a lot more with what we do, musically. I chose a lot of different stuff growing up but myself and Nathan we were so heavily into the early Kings of Leon stuff.

I remember; we would just sit for hours on end listening to what was going on in the early-'00s and just being blown away. From being around eight-years-old, we wanted to do this because of everyone from Kings of Leon - even to Razorlight and everything in-between. But, the best physical record I own from start to finish has to be Funkadelic - Uncle Jam Wants You.

Jackson: Kerrang! Class of 2006.

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

We can’t announce that just yet!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Ryan: We want to establish ourselves as a main player in the North East. We’ve been around for so many years under a previous name and that was our warm-up; we were prepping to do this. We’re much more focused and refined now. We have a set of songs we’re continuously expanding and we know exactly what we want to achieve. We’re here now and we’re not going anywhere but forward.

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

Nathan: I remember so vividly being in primary-school and waiting for the Christmas talent show every day so me and my friend could perform for the first time. We must’ve been about ten-years-old and we got up, drums and guitar; dressed in trilby hats, neckerchiefs and skinny jeans and blasted out a cover of Back in Black by AC/DC. It was exhilarating.

There are photos of me next to this drum kit that was twice the size of me. The teachers and parents were shocked. They thought it was going to be terrible but we smashed it. Looking back, it was probably awful but, from that point on, I knew all I wanted to do was play live in front of big crowds - maybe minus the trilby.

Harry: Writing music on Boxing Day when we started the band and we all received new gear for Christmas. We wrote several songs that day. They did not age well at all but we were exploring sounds and our instruments. It was a fun process.

Jackson: First time I heard a song I liked was on a Rey Mysterio website where it was, literally, just pictures of him with Numb Encore playing. I asked my sister what song it was and then I downloaded it.

Ryan: When we finished our first song as a band, around the age of fifteen/sixteen, I remember just playing it over and over for hours and I got home and I was so adamant that we were on to something…I’d never think the same thing if I wrote it now but it was such a significant transition to us: we went from musicians who played covers to artists then. It was spine tingling.

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

Jackson: Last Dinosaurs/The Jungle Giants.

My rider would be a bucket of ice, a can of Relentless; some vodka and a cinnamon swirl from the Co-Op.

Harry: Tame Impala. They had the best live show I have seen.

Ryan: Tame Impala are up there for me, too, but I’m not disappointed in changing that to Bear’s Den. I can never get bored of their music.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you’re doing something and you think: ‘But, wait; nobody else is doing that’, it’s not a bad thing. You’re doing the right thing by making a sound for yourself. No self-respecting band has ever become successful by being derivative - make your mark.

Harry: When starting out, say ‘yes’ to every gig. You network, get experience and improve as a band. We played an obscene amount of shows in our first three years.

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IN THIS PHOTO: The Old Pink House/PHOTO CREDIT: Alex Robson

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Nathan: There’s another four-piece from Newcastle I’d highly recommend called The Old Pink House. Every song they have released on Spotify is an anthem. The singer has a very distinguishable voice and the guitar riffs are melodic; supported by a thumping, stylish rhythm section and moody, room-filling synths.

Harry: I am into a band called courtship. Right now, they just released their debut L.P. They have some great tunes, especially for summer.

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

Harry: Not really. It is always on the mind. I unwind by listening to music - so that doesn't help.

Ryan: The great thing about music is that you can use it for everything, including downtime. I do enjoy a cinema trip or reading, though.

Jackson: Playing Xbox babyyyyyy. Fortnite master.

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).

Jackson: As U Wave - HALFNOISE

Nathan: Everything She Wants – Wham!

Harry: Sunroof – courtship.

Ryan: Girlfriend - Christine and the Queens (ft. Dâm-Funk) 

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INTERVIEW: VC Pines

INTERVIEW:

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VC Pines

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IT has been interesting speaking with VC Pines…

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about his new single, Golden Gai, and its evocative story. I ask the songwriter what it is like writing music with a condition called chromesthesia; if there is going to be more material later this year – Jack (VC Pines) talks about moving from a band, The Carnabys, to life as a solo artist.

I was eager to know whether there are gigs coming up and which upcoming acts VC Pines recommends; the three albums that mean the most to him; how he chills away from music – the songwriter gives some useful advice for artists starting out.

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Hi, VC Pines. How are you? How has your week been?

Not bad, thanks. Recovering from Lovebox last night - Childish Gambino was unreal.

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

It's like an Alternative-Soul vibe; contemporary-sounding beats and sounds with classic brass and voodoo organ sounds. Soulful vocals, too.

Golden Gai is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

Haha. It's a memory from being on tour in Tokyo. Me and the bassist were walking through Kabukichō after drinking in the Golden Gai; we kind of got ushered into this lift that was on the street and just went with it. When we got out, we were suddenly in this run-down, after-hours massage parlour with all the lights off. These people were screaming at us and tried to take our money etc. But, yeah, we managed to slip around and sprint down the stairs and out of the weird parlour, wallets intact - and lived to write a song about it.

Will there be further material this year, do you think? How far are you looking ahead?

Yeah, for sure, I'm writing all the time; constantly working on new material and finishing off older stuff. New stuff in the wings, for sure.

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Jack. As a former member of The Carnabys; was it hard adapting, in terms of formation and style, to working on what you do now?

If I were to tell myself I'd be working like this a couple of years ago it'd be hard to get my head around, but it's all just fallen into place quite bizarrely and it's how I love to work. I can try things out, bin it or keep it; go with styles that are a bit more out-there and they grow on me every day.

You have a condition called chromesthesia. How does it affect the way you write and perceive music? Does it make creating music more difficult than otherwise?

If anything, it makes it easier. I have a clear vision of the song before it's even written and use colour to help to keep things that fit together like a puzzle - especially in the studio when colour coding gets used. It really helps to see it all in front of you rather than have things laid out in my head. It makes things quick and easy: like having two computers on the go, except only one has a screen.

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Given the name, ‘VC’ (Violet Coloured) Pines; is there significance behind the moniker? How do they relate to your chromesthesia?

Some of my favourite music I've written is violet/purple in my head. The name helps keep things going in a certain direction for me. ‘Pines’ comes from my temporal lobe epilepsy, of which I think my synaesthesia/chromesthesia is a symptom.

I was taken to Wolfboro, in North America, when I was a child. I hardly remember any of it but, sometimes, if I'm having an episode I get these memories in my head I didn't think were there - and they're of these massive pine trees and the snow around them.

Did you grow up around a lot of music? Which artists inspired you when you were young?

I got into music through my dad's C.D.s. He had all these Punk C.D.s; so, I instantly loved people like The Stranglers, Ian Dury; Wire, The Clash and The Damned etc. He's also a big Motown fan and, through that, I found Soul music which really captured me. We used to sing Across 110th Street  (Bobby Womack) at each other in the car.

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

I haven't really thought of that! Haha. Maybe I should start. I've just been taking each day as it comes - each song, as they arrive in my head, and going with it all.

Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

1st August at The Social - be there!

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

I've loved every second of being in music, from touring globally; the European tours and the tours up and down the U.K. It's fuc*ing fun and that's why I do it. Looking forward to getting back on the road with VC Pines. Tours are full of laughs, but one particular memory I have is when we played a house party in Brighton and we were so close to falling through the floor.

Everyone was jumping but there was this one guy that wasn't - though his head was bobbing up and down by a foot or so, which meant the floor was bending. The moment I said “stop jumping” he went nuts and starting stamping everywhere.

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

That's such a hard question…there are so, so many. There are some I fall in and out love with and others that I never forget about. They're all so different! I'm gonna say:

Sound & Color - Alabama Shakes

Me and my girlfriend listened to it start to finish the other day in the car and it reminded me of being on tour when it first came out. It's an album full of memories for me.

Grace - Jeff Buckley

One of the most incredible albums ever written. He was a true, true genius.

Remain in Light - Talking Heads

It reminds me of my dad from the first to last second. It's literally an album full of his sense of humour and emotions. David Byrne is also a hero.

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

Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds. Not only are his songs written with his dark brilliance but his live arrangements are even better. He has so much energy on stage - and so do the Bad Seeds. To have a career like his would be a dream.

My riders are pretty easy: beer, rum; towels, water…depends on what's happening after the show.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make the music that you would play if someone asked you to describe yourself. Hold nothing back on stage and don't listen to assholes. Oh…and anyone that mentions percentages within the first five minutes can fu*k off, too: let things grow.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Joel Culpepper

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Joel Culpepper, Daniel Blumberg and Ezra Collective.

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

I don't really. The only thing I do to chill is not listening to it (music). When I'm not writing, I'm at work at my mate's shop. So, I end up playing my favourite music all day. Love 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).

Sick. Let's go with the last song I listened to: Chicago - Tom Waits

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INTERVIEW: Super Paradise

INTERVIEW:

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Super Paradise

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WITH their new single, Sweat, ready to go…

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I have been speaking with Super Paradise about it and whether there might be more material arriving down the tracks. The band discusses the reason behind moving from Milan to London – they reveal what they hope to achieve before the end of this year.

I ask where we can see them play and the new artists we should watch out for; how their latest single differs from their earliest material; the importance of being on stage and performing to the crowds – 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?

Yeah. This week’s been good. Kind of busy. Getting things ready to release the single and get to Paris.

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

We are Super Paradise - we originated in Milan and are now based in London. We generally think of the music as ‘Dream-Garage’.

Can you tell me about your new track, Sweat? How did it come together? What is the story behind it?

It’s about this whole year in London; since we started playing together.

How do you think it differs from your earliest work? Do you find yourself adding new stuff with each track?

It takes a more frenetic direction. It’s our fastest song yet; it’s more raucous than the earlier stuff.

Is there more material coming? Are you working on an E.P. or album?

Yeah. We are recording an E.P. in September which should be out by the end of the year, hopefully.

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You started life in Milan but are based in the U.K. What was the reason behind the move? Do you get the chance to go back to Milan?

The music scene in London is fresh and dynamic. Lots of venues. Lots of interesting bands. It’s perfect for us.

We hope to play in Milan soon; by the end of the year.

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

More gigs around the U.K. We want to play some shows up North, for sure - and also to release a new E.P.

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How important is it being on stage and delivering your music? Is that the best part of making music?

Yeah. We really enjoy playing live. It’s often the best way to reach new audiences - and we seem to go down well.

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

Thee Oh Sees, Fat White Family; The Gories and My Bloody Valentine.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We would be talking to ourselves…

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

We’re playing in Paris this Friday at Super Sonic then we have our single launch party on Tuesday, 24th July at The Waiting Room in London. Then, we have a headline show at The Old Blue Last on 30th July.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Coby Sey

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Coby Sey, Brother May and Micachu.

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

Books and films.

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).

Tom Waits - Going Out West

Parquet Courts - Total Football

The Gun Club - Mother of Earth

Thee Oh Sees - I Was Denied

Tommy James & the Shondells - I’m Alive

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Follow Super Paradise

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INTERVIEW: Firemelon

INTERVIEW:

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Firemelon

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MY questions to Firemelon…

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were sent out before their album, King Leisure, arrived - so it seems like a perfect opportunity for people to hear their latest work. I have been talking with the American band about the single, Before Goodbye; they discuss King Leisure and what inspired it – I was eager to know how they all came together and what the music scene is like where they.

The guys each choose a song to end the interview with; I learn whether the guys have collective and common tastes and what their touring plans are – they tell me whether they are coming to the U.K. and playing here anytime soon.

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

Well, hi! Our week’s been great so far. We’ve been spending time writing and working on fresh material - which is always a blast. The best way to spend a week in my opinion.

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

Sure. The short answer is: Firemelon is a little ol' Rock ‘n’ Roll band out of Southern California. People tell us what we play is called ‘Americana’.  I don’t know. From our perspective; it’s music that grew out of all the things we love listening to. There’s old-school Country in there, mashed up against Rock ‘n’ Roll; twangy guitars and grungy guitars; pedal steel and a lot of drums. It’s Country and Rock and heavy all at the same time.

I’m Matthew Samia - I’m the singer and guitarist and I’ve been writing most of the tunes. We also have Matt Bailey on guitars, who has also, lately, been stepping up and contributing tunes. Jeff ‘Packy’ Cassens is on drums; Chris ‘Harv’ Harvey is on pedal steel and Ron V. Larson is on electric bass. 

I guess that’s not actually such a short answer...

Can I ask how your name, ‘Firemelon’, came to be?! Is there a story behind it?

There is, kind of... 

I had a band in college that needed a name.  We decided the best way to choose a name would be to get really plastered, write random words on slips of paper and, literally, pull them out of a hat and combine them in random ways…seems totally obvious that this is the best way to choose a name (sarcasm). But, that’s what we did. There were a few other contenders that came out of the hat – ‘SunTooth’, ‘CowPaste’; ‘BrainFrog…but, somehow, ‘FireMelon’ won out. 

We found out, later, that there’s a thing called a firemelon in a video game – but, by then, it was too late to change. We had decided to forever be known as ‘FireMelon’.  Or ‘The Melon’ for short.

Before Goodbye is your debut single. How did the song come together? Does it hold personal significance?

Before Goodbye is a song about the breakup of a relationship and the melancholy musings that come with it. It’s not really about any one particular relationship or breakup, but rather the feeling everyone has experienced when things fall apart. It came together pretty fast. Sometimes, things pop in my head as I’m driving or noodling on the guitar or whatever. This one was a driving song.

The opening guitar riff and first few lines sort of appeared in my skull as I was cruising down Pan Coast Highway. I brought the skeleton of the tune to rehearsal that night and it just sort of formed itself…it’s nice when a plan comes together.

Do you have any more material planned for later in the year?

Yes! The album that Before Goodbye is off of, King Leisure, is set to drop in a few weeks. We’re pretty excited about that. As I mentioned earlier; we’ve been writing and working up new material for the past few months - that we plan to record in the fall for the follow-up to King Leisure.

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How did you all find one another? Did you all live in Orange County at the time?

We’re all from Huntington Beach, in Southern California (in Orange County). We met in high-school and have all played together in various bands at different times in the past. Firemelon is the first band we’ve all played in all together, though. It’s been great to have guys who are all on the same page, musically, and are also great friends. Except the drummer. We don’t care for him much.

Your music has a lot of honesty and emotion working away. Is that a result of your collective experience and musical tastes?

Thank you. I think it grows out of our collective musical tastes, for sure –also, having created music for quite a while; which I think tends to lead you down the path of least bullsh*it. As a songwriter, the people whose songs and performances I most connect with are the ones who take the simple, heartfelt approach. Like Lucinda Williams. She’s all about simple arrangements, heartfelt lyrics and powerful delivery. So good…  

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

We’re getting our summer tour dates together at the moment. Currently, we have a show upcoming at The Mint in Los Angeles with Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on July 11; a show at The Coachhouse in Southern California on July 20 and we’ll be at our favorite local music dive, The Karman Bar in Orange County, on July 28th.  We’ll be fleshing out the rest of the summer and into the fall A.S.A.P.!

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

We would love to!  Can we stay at your place?

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Complete World Domination! As a starting point... 

But, actually, we’re looking forward to the release of King Leisure and getting the next album recorded.  Also; we’re looking to reach listeners in the U.K., and would, in fact, like to get a U.K. tour together.

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

So many I don’t know. In recent memory; we did a great show with Mike Campbell at the Coachhouse last year - that one definitely stands out. Mike is a great guy and one of my personal musical heroes, so it was a kick playing with his new band, The Dirty Knobs. The Coach House is a great mid-sized venue: not too big, and not too small, so the sold-out crowd was close-by to pump us up with their energy. A memorable show all-around!

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

Father John Misty. He just did a great show at the Hollywood Bowl supported by Gillan Welch and David Rawlings, who I love. But, I’d kick them off the bill in a second and take that slot! 

The rider is always ‘no brown M&M’s’. It goes without saying...

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write your own music. Play it. Keep playing it.  

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IN THIS IMAGE: A lighter promoting Father John Misty's latest album, God's Favourite Customer

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been digging Father John Misty lately and Kevin Morby. The War on Drugs, too. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: The War on Drugs

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

Well. I tend to unwind by sitting around playing guitar and noodling on new songs - or singing old ones. So, I guess it’s not really time away from music. But, it’s what I always gravitate toward if I have a free minute. I always have. 

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).

Thanks!  

Harv: I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail by Buck Owens

Matt Bailey: Black Grease by The Black Angels

Packy: If It’s the Beaches by The Avett Brothers

Ron: Unsuffer Me by Lucinda Williams

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Follow Firemelon

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INTERVIEW: Lauren Housley

INTERVIEW:

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Lauren Housley

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THE amazing Lauren Housley…

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has been chatting with me about her current track, My Sleeping Heart, and its unique story; whether she has learned any lessons since her debut days; what we can expect from her forthcoming E.P. – Housley discusses favourite albums and music that inspires her.

In addition to recommending an upcoming artist; the songwriter reveals why she took a slight break from music; if she gets time to unwind away from music; where we can catch her perform this month – Housley shares a precious memory from her time in music.

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

Hi! I'm good, thanks - hope you are too. It's been a great week, thanks. Just got back from touring. It's been a lot of fun!

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

My name is Lauren Housley…I've been a massive music lover my entire life and started writing songs before I even knew that's what they were. I'm inspired by timeless songs. I'm a northern girl who loves so many different styles of music: Soul, Blues; Americana and Country music seems to have influenced my music quite a bit. I write and perform a lot with my long-time collaborator, Thomas Dibb.

Can you tell me how My Sleeping Heart came to be? What inspired the song?

I was in Nashville in September and got chatting with a guy at the bar who was remembering a lost love. He was finally coming to terms with someone he had let go because he was afraid of commitment. The experienced had impacted his life and he had never forgotten that person. When I got back to the room that night, I picked up the guitar and wrote My Sleeping Heart.

It is a confident and impassioned song. Do you feel yourself growing stronger with every release?

Thank you, and, absolutely! I'm becoming more and more comfortable with my own way of writing and growth as an artist. With every song and release, I'm learning to trust myself more and gaining confidence to follow my instincts.

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Have you learned anything about yourself since your debut, do you think?

Yes. Many things. I've learnt that we never stop learning!

Also, to accept and be ok with that. If you don't know something now, it doesn't mean you never will. I picked up the guitar as a tool for my songwriting only a few years ago - after most of the songs from my first album were written and have since started playing on the live shows. There was a time when I thought I'd never get to that point.

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I believe there is an E.P. out later in the year. Are there connecting themes and stories that go into the music?

Yeah. There are lyrics that describe situations that directly happened to me. I'm a dreamer and always will be...I think I'm searching for peace, truth; beauty and understanding in a lot of things in life so these themes seem to pop up a lot.  

You took a brief break from music. What was the reason behind that?

I wanted to focus on writing and spend more time in the studio: it's important to reassess what you'd like to explore through the music.

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Who would you rank as your main songwriting idols and heroes?

Carole King and Gerry Goffin; Bob Dylan, Paul Simon; Ryan Adams, Prince; Van Morrison, Joni Mitchell; Stevie Wonder, Stevie Nicks; John Martyn, Lauryn Hill and Bob Marley.

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

I'll be playing a set at The Ned in London on 30th July. It's FREE entry. Would be great to see you there. 

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

I'd like to have a new album recorded. I have a lot of songs ready to take into the studio now. I've got quite a few collaborations I'm pursuing too. 

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

I was asked to perform at an event in my hometown of Rotherham where primary school children come together to perform. I played a track of mine called, All You Need is a Friend, and all the kids joined in with the outro. It was very sweet and humbling to hear them all singing the lyrics together as one.

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

Joni Mitchell - Blue

Fleetwood Mac - Rumours

Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Have fun, explore; try new things, go outside of your comfort zone. Create and share your work and try not to put too much pressure on yourself.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Robbie Cavanagh

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Robbie Cavanagh is a very talented guy. He's played a few support slots for me recently and he's a brilliant songwriter, singer and performer. Definitely go and see him live if you get the chance. 

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

I try to as much as possible. I like going for long walks and listening to interesting podcasts. I have just got back into drawing and painting, too, which I can get lost in for hours. I find intense exercise quite relaxing too...strangely.

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).

Am I Safe by Ryan Adams, please. I've got it stuck in my head right now and I love that song!

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INTERVIEW: The Blood Choir

INTERVIEW:

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The Blood Choir

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I have enjoyed speaking with The Blood Choir…

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about their track, Drake, and the new album, Houses of the Sun, and why they have not released new music in six years. Robin and Joe talk about their development and what they hope to achieve through the rest of the year – I ask whether we can see The Blood Choir on tour at all.

The guys explain the importance of getting back on the stage and how they got together in the first place; if they have favourite memories from their time in music – they choose a rising act we should seek out and explore.

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

We’re good, thanks.

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

There are two of us. Robin sings, plays guitar and keyboard; Joe plays guitar and various other instruments. We’re from Bath, originally, but we’re now based between the U.K. and Denmark. We’ve released two albums so far: No Windows to the Old World in 2012 and Houses of the Sun which came out this June.  

How did The Blood Choir get together? When did you meet? 

We’ve been friends since we were teenagers. We spent most of our early twenties playing in different bands before we got together as The Blood Choir in 2009.

Drake is your new single. It is from the album, Houses of the Sun. What sort of themes and ideas influenced the music? 

Entropy, love; illness, time; death, light; depression, water; paranoia and space. 

The record is your first in six years. How come there was such a gap between releases?!

There were many reasons. We left our record label, fell out with our manager; the touring line-up of the band imploded and then Rob had to move to Denmark. We also had a lot of other personal things going on. 

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

Hopefully, get some funding to make another record. It’s already written, so it’s just a question of getting in the studio and recording it. Our plan is to try and get it recorded early next year and get it out soon after that. We also have an E.P. called Dartmoor (which pre-dates our first album No Windows to the Old World) that we’re planning to release in the autumn. 

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

Robin: Probably finishing Houses of the Sun. 

Joe: I’d say the same thing - it was a great moment when we got it over the line. 

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

Robin: Kate Bush, maybe. I saw her last show at the Hammersmith Apollo which was pretty mind-blowing.

Rider-wise; I have no idea... 

Joe: Not sure; that’s a tough one. Most of the good ones are dead. If I was pushed, I’d probably say Neil Young.   

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Do you feel like the music has changed a lot since 2012? How has The Blood Choir evolved? 

We’ve just continued writing songs. We haven’t stopped really since finishing the first album, so we now have a lot of material in the bank. Most of the songs we’re working on at the moment are for album no.-four. It’s difficult for us to say how the music has evolved: it’s just been a natural progression. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We’re not sure we’re in any position to be giving advice to anyone…

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

We’re doing another U.K. tour this November, the details of which are still being finalised. We’re also hoping to do some shows in Denmark next spring.

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

Yeah, it is important. The tour we did this May was the first time we had played live together for over five years. Being locked away working on new material for that long can end up making you feel a bit cut off from your audience. It was good to get out there and start connecting with people again.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a Danish band called Kogekunst that are worth a listen. 

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

Not much: we’re always working. 

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). 

Robin: Richard Dawson – Soldier

Joe: Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Distant Sky

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INTERVIEW: Jake Morley

INTERVIEW:

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Jake Morley

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THE terrific Jake Morley…

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has been talking with me about his new release – an acoustic, stripped-back version of the track, Ghostess (originally released in 2015). I ask about his plan to release an acoustic track each month and what Ghostess’ story is – Morley chats about his Spotify playlist, Tell It to Me Straight, and a couple of upcoming artists we should throw our weight behind.

I ask Morley which artists he grew up around and was inspired by; how his touring diary is looking at the moment; what advice he would give to artists entering the scene right now – he reveals what he wants to achieve before the end of the year.

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

You know those T.V. characters who walk around with Dictaphones and starting all their sentences with: “Note to self….”? Well, that’s pretty much me right now. I’m heading into the studio next week to record another batch of tracks, so it’s a regular stream of lyric tweaks and maybe-we-should-move-that-chord-somewhere-else. Basically, if you see me mumbling quietly into my phone whilst on the Tube, do not be alarmed...

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

The challenge I’ve set myself is to produce songs for acoustic guitar and voice that are interesting, and stay interesting many listens later, with lyrics that you don’t regret giving your attention to and production that isn’t trying to con you.

I’m a white, heterosexual; bearded, male singer-songwriter… so, not exactly a rare unicorn. There are millions of us! Too many, maybe. But, I don’t feel like a stereotype: I feel like I’m finding something quite specific. Not just another bloke singing sensitively about his love life.

A stripped, acoustic version of Ghostess is your latest single. What is the story behind that song?

Ok. So, this one is actually a heartbreak song and, thus, may be undermining my point above a little. But, it’s absolutely authentic. The album version got a few million streams, so we wanted to include it for this acoustic series.

A few years back, after a break-up, I was desolate and surrounded by little remnants of the relationship - hairs on clothes, toothbrushes that still seem to kiss (all that). It’s funny how often the best songs are the ones you feel you have the least control over, can take the least credit for. This one flew out pretty quickly, helped along by Lady Gaga suggesting the title to me during an imagined conversation in my living room.

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You are releasing a new acoustic song each month. Why did you decide to do that? Has it been fun reworking your songs?

In the past, I would spend ages building up an album of songs. Slowly, they’d get recorded with big, detailed arrangements and then, eventually, they’d get released. By the time I’m actually touring them, they’re already years old, grown up and off to university. It just feels like there’s a better way, now: write, record and release; craft the song, record it without over-producing; share it, move on. Keep it fresh.

I’m loving that right now.

The playlist, Tell It to Me Straight, seems to be a source of inspiration. What sort of artists are on that playlist? Does it give you drive and ideas?

Often, the songs I come back to, again and again, talk to me like a friend with clear words; no bulls*it, no razzle-dazzle - just straight in there with an authentic expression they feel is important. It’s not about what genre it is: it’s an attitude thing. Treating your audience like an equal rather than a mark. Maybe a little hard to describe but I know it when I hear it.

The playlist came first, but it’s very much an ethos for me right now - in the songs I want to write and the way they’re recorded and toured.

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Which artists inspired you to get into music? When did you start writing your own music?

My dad tried to get me into Miles Davis and Steely Dan. My brothers tried to get me into Nirvana and Rage Against the Machine. I started around eight or nine, piano first; then drums, then guitar around thirteen. At fifteen, I’d be getting drunk with my friends playing Oasis songs and thinking: ‘Ooh; this is a bit fun’.

Writing songs seemed like an obvious extension to learning instruments.

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

Stop Making Sense – Talking Heads (live album)

Because it’s absolutely dazzling in its ambition and emotion.

Rage Against the Machine - Live at the Grand Olympic Auditorium

Because, sometimes, I’m angry and fearful.

Freddie Stevenson - 50 Songs

Because I love them dearly - and a fifty-song album would be a good way to cheat and get more (songs).

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

Most days, I measure achievement in a personal way by how well I’m writing and playing. Other days, I measure achievement by how many ‘likes’ I get on Twitter and how much more successful my peers are. Hopefully, by the end of 2018, I’ll have done more of the former and less of the latter.

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

Standing side-of-stage to watch Willie Nelson after a support slot is up there. But, I’m pretty ruthless with memories: once it’s done it’s done. There’s no satisfaction quite like a great song coming together, or a great gig after the last notes are played…

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

Never been that fussed about riders.

As for the support slot…hmmm, well. It’s mainly about playing in a great room with great sound to people who are feeling the music. That’s kind of more important than who the headliner is. Hammersmith Apollo was my favourite ever venue to play. I’d maybe pick someone like Bon Iver - if he was in an acoustic phase.

How important is it being on stage and connecting with the crowd?

Essential. Sometimes, I find myself feeling grumpy as hell then realising I haven’t played any gigs for a while. Then, I play a show and I’m all better again. I have a nineteen-date U.K. tour later this year and plenty of festivals – so, I think I’m covered for now.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Nothing will help you get better like practice so, whatever music you make, make it often; play it hard, give it everything. With that comes confidence in yourself and, with confidence, you can sometimes do far more than you previously realised.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Bryde

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I run a weekly club for musicians to co-work together in London. We meet up with laptops, get work done and bounce ideas off each other. In fact, I’m here right now. It’s also a great chance to find new music. Check out these two amazing artists who are here this week: Bryde and Roxanne de Bastion.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Roxanne de Bastion

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

That, my friend, will just have to be a mystery to you – mainly, as chilling away from music seems so hilariously foreign right now.

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

A Case of You by Joni Mitchell – if even one person discovers it today that’d be worth it

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INTERVIEW: Belau

INTERVIEW:

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Belau

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I have been speaking with Krisztián of Belau…

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about the duo’s new song, Breath, and working with Sophie Lindinger on it. I discover how Belau got together and whether there is much of a music scene where they are in Budapest; which new act we should watch out for – Krisztián tells me whether more material will arrive down the line.

I wanted to know whether Belau have touring plans and how likely they are to visit the U.K.; what they/Krisztián hope to achieve before the end of this year; the artists that are most influential to Belau right now – Krisztián ends the interview by selecting a classic song.

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How are you? How has your week been?

Krisztián Buzás: Thank you for having us on your site - all fine. The summer in Budapest is lovely and we are on tour as always. We’re reaching out for some major festival here in Hungary and we are also touring around in countries like Croatia or Montenegro - unique sights and excellent adventures.

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

Belau is a Budapest-based Chillwave duo, stepping into the third summer of the band existence. We had the pleasure to tour in more than twenty countries. As a live act, we work now as a four-piece band and try to reach out for as many people as we possibly can. We have released several music videos, made an award-winning debut album and, right now, we are working on our second full-length.

Breath is your new song. What is the inspiration behind it?

The song is a picture painted by our inner-self; a journey to the inside where we are able to see the truth between the never-ending struggles to finally find peace. The music video tries to underline this with the woman who is escaping the reality - and then she finally slips into the coveted state where we are all heading to.

What was it like working with Sophie Lindinger on the song?

Sophie is a unique talent with an extraordinary voice. The fact that she accepted to feature on our new album is our honour. LEYYA, the band she sings for, is a great Austrian act. The work came together very instantly - although, we did not meet during the recording session. We had to wait to finally meet personally at SXSW in Austin, TX where both of us played. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Belau with  Sophie Lindinger 

Is there going to be more material coming down the line?

Definitely. In the background, we are constructing the new album which is taking shape slowly. The release is scheduled for early-2019 but, if you are following us, you will notice that Breath and Redefine are already out and shows the new direction for Belau 3.0.

How did you get together? When did Belau start life?

Belau’s first live show was in 2016. Peter and I have been friends since we were ten and he had the idea to start a Chillwave band. Originally, he started it alone because I was very busy at that time of my life - so, I joined later on during the first live show. The success of Island of Promise pushed us and provided a great start and, since then, we have achieved a lot of things what we are proud of.

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You are based in Budapest. Is there an active scene over there?

The music scene in very diverse in Budapest - but we have a sub-scene for all the genres. The sad fact is that, however, we have some amazing artists who are unique, up-to-date and exciting, yet the first great international breakthrough is still to come. That’s what we are working forwards.

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

For me, it’s way different than it should be because I mostly listen to totally different music (than Belau). But, we can say that the most influential artists to us nowadays are Odesza and Ibeyi. What I listen to the most is something uplifting and wonderful; progressive miracles like The Contortionist or some regardless and hellraising old-school stuff like Blood Incantation.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Touring is the main goal while, in the background, we are working on the second full-length - which will be out in early-2019. What I want to achieve is to bring Belau to the next level.

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

Beth Gibbons of Portishead. If not alive, then Chester from Linkin Park.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I consider us to be a new artist - but, I would say hard work always pays off. Work for it!

Might we see you tour very soon? Do you think you’ll come to the U.K.?

We had two U.K. shows so far in London but we are planning a small tour for you guys. As far as I see now we will go to Croatia, Montenegro; Germany, Sweden and Denmark in the next months…but the numbers are always increasing.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Orient Fall

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Go check out my Metal band, Orient Fall.

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

Sleeping or organizing my vinyl collection.

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).

Obviously, in these cases, I put something here that totally does not fit the subject. Poison’s hit, Every Rose Has Its Thorn, is an example. I heard yesterday in a Rob Schneider movie.

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Follow Belau

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INTERVIEW: Germein

INTERVIEW:

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Germein

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THEY are in the midst of supporting Little Mix…

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here in the U.K., so it is a busy and exciting time for Germein. The Australian sisters discuss playing with Little Mix and being in Britain; self-producing their latest track, Talking, and what its story is – the group tell me about their influences and what the music scene is like where they live in Adelaide.

I ask them which artists and albums mean a lot to them; if they get time away from music to unwind and chill; what advice they would provide to artists coming through at the moment – Germein highlight a new act to look out for and choose a few songs to end the interview with.

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

G’day! We are fantastic, thank you! Our week has been crazy-amazing. We are in the middle of a U.K. stadium tour with Little Mix and having the best time.

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

We’re a sibling Indie-Rock pop band from Australia. Georgia plays guitar & keys, Ella plays bass & electric cello and Clara plays drums.

You are all sisters. When did you decide to make music together? Did you share music tastes growing up?

Clara Germein: We started out jamming together on our family farm in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia - putting on little shows for our grandparents and family friends when they’d come to visit. Playing music was always something fun we loved to do together. The first C.D.s we ever got were Celine Dion (Georgia), Shania Twain (Ella) and Kate Cebrano (Clara) - which we listened to on-repeat!

Georgia Germein: Our dad played the trumpet in a New Orleans Rhythm and Blues-style band and introduced us to artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong; Van Morrison, and Cat Stevens. We grew up going to his shows, which was always very load, energetic and lots of fun. Mum played Classical and Folk music around the house and we were encouraged to have fun and be creative with our music. We sang Ella Fitzgerald’s A Tisket, A Tasket for our first public performance, I think, when I was about six-years-old!

Ella Germein: We didn't watch much TV growing up but, when we did, it was usually Disney movies which, of course, are known for their amazing soundtracks. I think these definitely sparked our interest in the power of music and emotion.

Talking is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

Georgia: Talking takes on a bit of a darker theme with edgy guitar hits, pumping drums and bass - and a soaring break-out chorus showcasing our three-part harmonies. Talking, we hope, can relate to people facing all different types of challenges. Whether it be feeling like you can't express yourself through communication in a break-up, losing a loved one; fighting with a friend or even not feeling like you have the right to talk – which, unfortunately, is true for many people in this world.

Ella: There’s a line in the song, “This silence is killing us”, which, basically, talks about bottling up the fear, anger and frustration to the point of it feeling like its destroying you. There is a cool build-up in this part of the song which sort of reflects that building up and exploding feeling; like that feeling when you stand on the edge of a cliff and just scream out, releasing all the emotions, and after you feel ten times better.

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Is it true this is the first single you produced yourself? Did you feel the need to have more control and say?

Georgia: Yeah. We decided we wanted to start making music on our own terms and so I tried recording and producing Talking myself in our home studio in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. I’ve always been recording demos and messing with recording gear over the years, so it’s been quite empowering to finally get to the point where I can do it myself. We wanted Talking to sound like ‘us’ and I think we were best able to capture this by producing it ourselves.

Talking was pre-produced by Stuart Gray and mixed by John Castle. When we hit ‘play’ on it, we knew it was the musical vision we’ve had for ourselves finally coming to life.

Looking ahead; might there be an E.P. or album coming along?

Yeah. We’ve got a bunch more songs coming out soon, so stay tuned!

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Being based out of Adelaide; what is the music scene like there? How does it compare to other parts of Australia?

Adelaide’s music scene was our first taste of life in the industry, sparking our huge love for live music and performing. There are lots of great festivals in Adelaide, such as the Adelaide Fringe, which has been named the biggest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere. There’s also WOMADelaide and Oz Asia, attracting thousands of people to the city to experience the wide variety of music from many different cultures. The Porch Sessions are well-known for transforming backyards into an intimate musical oasis - as well as A Day on the Green, Handpicked and Botanic Park for larger outdoor festivals in picturesque locations such as renowned Adelaide Hills Wineries and Adelaide’s beautiful Botanical Gardens.

You will always find live music in the city anywhere; from the bustling Adelaide Central Markets to the busy streets of Rundle Mall and even as you go to collect your bags at Adelaide Airport there’ll be local muso welcoming you with their tunes. Adelaide was also recently named as a UNESCO City of Music (one of thirty-one cities in the world), which is awarded to cities that have demonstrated excellence in music heritage, music-making; education, community involvement and regular high-profile international music events. Other great Aussie cities for music include Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

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What might one find if they searched your music collections? Do you all have quite a wide range of heroes and heroines?

Ella: We love bands with a strong harmony feel like Fleetwood Mac and Queen; the edginess of Florence and the Machine and The Wombats; plus, the fun energy of iconic female artists from over the years like the Spice Girls, Beyoncé and, of course, Little Mix.

If we could only listen to one album ever again, here’s what each of us would choose at the moment: 

Georgia: John Mayer - Where the Light Is: John Mayer Live in Los Angeles

I just love everything about a live album - and John Mayer’s songs and musicianship are just incredible.

Ella: Kasey Musgraves - Golden Hour

I'm obsessed with this new album of hers. I don't know what it is but it’s just so beautiful the way it's been written and musically created. I just love it.

Clara: The McClymonts – Endless

We do a lot of driving on tour and it’s great driving music. The songs are catchy and feel-good too.

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

Georgia: Arriving at the point of being able to record our own songs ourselves in our home studio. I love the process of recording a new song in the studio and to be able to create something new, add layers and give it personality and heart in my own time is so rewarding. It just makes me even more excited to be able to share these new songs with the rest of the world.

Ella: Playing for the orphans and sick children at the Agent Orange Rehabilitation Centre in Vietnam. It was such a heart-warming experience.

Clara: I just love touring in general. Being able to travel the world and play our own music is such an amazing feeling.

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

Georgia: U2

Ella: Taylor Swift

Clara: 5SOS

Rider: some puppies to play with.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Have a love of music at the heart of everything you do; create opportunities for yourself to get experience in the industry; don’t be afraid to ask questions - and be yourself.

I believe you are playing dates in the U.K. Which venue/date are you most looking forward to?

We are genuinely excited about every venue we are playing at in the U.K.! This is our first time playing in stadiums, so it’s quite surreal!

You are supporting Little Mix. Have you met them before? Are you excited about playing with them?!

Ella: We had the best time opening for a couple of Little Mix shows last year, so it’s incredible to be invited to back to play fifteen arena shows on their Summer Hits Tour in 2018! They are such a talented and down-to-earth group of girls who are smashing it in the music world at the moment, so we are stoked to be touring with them this July.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Rak-Su

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Rak-Su is a great group of fellas who are also touring with Little Mix, so we recommend you check them out!

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

We mostly unwind by going for a walk or a run, listening to music or watching a movie. Georgia unwinds by playing music or reading; Ella likes to paint and Clara likes taking our dogs for a walk. In Australia, we all like going to the beach and, if there’s time, going 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).

Georgia: Lose My Mind by Dean Lewis

Ella: High Horse by Kasey Musgraves

Clara: Flames by Sia & David Guetta

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Follow Germein

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INTERVIEW: Future Generations

INTERVIEW:

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Future Generations

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THE chaps of Future Generations…

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have been telling me about their new single, All the Same, and filming its video. They discuss New York City and what we will get from their upcoming album, Landscape – the band tells me how they got together and whether their latest work differs from their earlier stuff.

I discover what the guys do away from music and which upcoming musicians we should get behind; what they hope to accomplish before the end of the year; whether they all share music tastes – they each end the interview by selecting a song.

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

We’re great! Relaxing after a little tour in June. End of June/early-July is the time we’ve all planned our summer vacation/family obligations - until we get back and start getting ready for the fall tour.

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

We are five fellas looking to inspire future generations with new-fangled Indie-Pop.

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All the Same is out. What is the story behind the song? How did it come together?

We’ve been working on this song for quite some time. We originally recorded it all the way back when we recorded One More Problem but something about it just didn’t sit right. It took us many tweaks and adjustments until we realized that the drums are what needed to be fixed. We took about eight hours straight in the studio going late into the night trying different drum grooves until we decided that the simplest groove was the best.

Sometimes, it just works out that way.

What was it like putting the video together? Was it a pretty eventful shoot?

The shoot was ultra-smooth. We worked with Ken Polyak and Drew Lewis. We had a similar vision for the song: retro party vibes juxtaposed with a dystopian work/school environment. We had a ton of fun and got the chance to connect with a few fans whom we invited via Twitter for the party scenes.

Landscape, the album, is out on 14th September. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the music? Do you each have a standout cut?

Heartbreak, maturity; exhaustion, perseverance and new love. These are the emotional themes behind the album. Musically, there are too many to name but the ‘umbrella theme’ would be challenging ourselves to make the best songs we could. There was never a specific genre, band or sound we were trying to achieve: we just wanted to take each song and bring it to what we thought was its full potential.

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How do you think the album differs from your early work? Do you consciously add new elements in?

We’d like to think of this album as more of a cohesive set of songs. Our first record was a compilation of songs that were recorded throughout a few years. With this record, we had a ton of demos; picked the best twelve or so with our producer and re-worked them, one song per day, for almost two weeks straight in the studio.

What was it like working with producer Justin Gerrish?

The experience was a re-enactment of the movie, Whiplash. Just kidding. It was more like the movie, The Mighty Ducks, and Justin was Gordon Bombay. Aside from being a real talent in the studio and behind the board, Justin was pretty instrumental in encouraging us to experiment and get the songs to places we’re excited about.

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How did the band get together? What was it that bonded you all?

We met in the basement of our freshman dorm at Fordham University in The Bronx. It was the music room (literally, a room with an electric piano) and Eric (with a guitar) stumbled upon Eddie (playing the piano). They started playing and it was going pretty alright but then Mike stumbles into the room with a weird box and some speakers. Turns out, it was a mythological sampling device known as the MPC2000 that would soon develop our sound and be the glue that made our songs come alive - and eventually made us decide that, hey, why not be a band. Soon enough, we landed our first paid gig (out on the quad, paid heavily with Taco Bell crunchy tacos).

When we started playing shows a bit more seriously, we recruited notorious bass legend on campus, Devon. When we started playing even more seriously we recruited our drummer, Dylan, off of craigslist.

Do you all share musical tastes would you say? Have you all discovered artists through one another?

We’re constantly introducing artists and songs to each other. One of the biggest ways we all discover music is through each other. When we’re touring, we like to pass around a phone with Spotify and each put on a song in a playlist for the ride. We’re always taking note of a song we like that some of us haven’t heard.

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What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Besides becoming the next Def Leppard, we want to visit as many Applebee’s across the U.S.A. as possible.

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

We all have different favorites. One of the best experiences for all of us was our time at Firefly. Seeing Weezer, Muse; The Weeknd, Busta Rhymes and others only mere feet in front of you was so inspiring and joyous. 

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

Dylan: I would play drums for John Mayer.

My rider would include water, red wine; cheese and crackers, steak frites; an Xbox with Call of Duty and a T.V. to view live sports. I think I could ask for all of that playing with him…

Eric: I’d open for Andrea Bocelli.

My rider would include a barbecue and a few hundred hot dogs and hamburgers.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Tour your freakin’ arses off. It’s the best way to grow your fan base and get tight as a band. Do it at any cost.

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IN THIS PHOTO: pronoun

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Side Hustle, Ritual Talk; pronoun, YL; Petite League and Zuli.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ritual Talk

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

Yeah, definitely. We all have jobs aside from playing music. Typically to unwind, we’ll go to the beach or do some Tae Bo or eat at one of the many fine eating establishing we have here in N.Y.C.

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).

Dylan: Vundabar – Oulala

Eric: Bruce Springsteen - The Ties That Bind

Eddie: Side Hustle - This’ll Never Seem Real

Mike: Lawn - My Boy

Devon: Maggie Rogers - Fallingwater

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INTERVIEW: Jenna Calandra

INTERVIEW:

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Jenna Calandra

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I have been talking with Jenna Calandra…

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about her single, I’ll Be, and what its story is. Calandra reveals the song’s personal background and looks ahead to her self-titled album. I ask what sort of themes and stories will be included on the album; if there is a varied and busy music scene on Long Island, New York; which new/upcoming artist we should get behind – the songwriter talks about her influences and musical tastes.

Calandra talks to me about the ambitions she has for the rest of the year; which musical memory stands in her mind; the advice she would give to artists coming through – she ends the interview by choosing a song that means a lot to her.

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

Hello, Sam! I’ve been absolutely amazing! I’m working on some new music in the studio that I cannot wait to share!

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

My name is Jenna Calandra. I’m twenty-three-years-old; I’m an independent recording artist and songwriter! I live on Long Island, .N.Y. in the Suffolk County area. Music has been my life ever since I was a little girl.

Talk to me about the single, I’ll Be. Is there a personal story behind the song?

My debut single, I’ll Be, is about my personal experience with bullying. I was bullied in school. Kids in my grade would tease me about how I wanted to be a singer; they would call me the meanest names; they would tease me about how I live and where I came from. The song’s storyline is where I’ve accomplished and overcome my fears of making new friends; how much I’ve grown confidence, improvement and growth.

I have grown so much as an artist and person. My scars may be invisible but they are like battle wounds to me. I feel like this song is my anthem of being independent and strong. While I was recording, I was crying through my takes and that’s why I may sound shaky in my vocals. I was crying while I was singing and between the takes. I felt so emotional throughout the whole song. I want to inspire others who are going through bullying with this song and I love performing this song at my live shows I did in the past. 

I understand you are in the midst of making an album. Can you reveal any of the songs and themes that will appear on it? What has it been like putting the songs together?

I am writing this song about my bipolar disorder and having autism. The song I’m writing and recording is about where I was diagnosed with bipolar and autism and I didn’t know who I was at the moment...

But, now, I realized that I am like everyone else - pursuing my dreams and working my butt off. I’m working so hard and these songs changed my life. The themes on the album are about heartbreak, personal struggles; falling in love and being betrayed and judged. I don’t want people to look at me as the autistic girl because I feel judged for who I am every day and I learn to love myself. I look like a typical girl who can get a job and drive a car.

I hate using the word ‘normal’ - so I use ‘typical’. I do have autism and that’s what this album is about: finding myself and loving myself for who I am. These songs are so personal and I can’t wait for someone to say: “I can totally relate to your song”. That would make my day and make my heart happy. I realized I’ve opened up so much on this album and I want people to relate to my songs and lyrics.

Do you recall which song/moment started the album? How did it all get started?

I was writing My Love for You, which is my third single on the album. I was sixteen. It was the first song I wrote for the album. When I was eighteen I wrote Warrior, which is about how much I’ve accomplished and the confidence I’ve found - the album name came about (for these songs) when I was about twenty-years-old. I didn’t start recording professionally until I was twenty-two...and that’s how it all started and came about. I was discussing with my producer about the idea of an E.P. or an album. I told him I wanted to do a self-titled album because there is so much to say in my music and personal stories/struggles. So, then we came up with the title Jenna.

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Long Island is your home. What is the music like there? Are there a lot of great local acts coming through?

I have a lot of musician friends on Long Island. My friend, Ali B., is so talented. She travels all over Long Island and New York City to pursue her music career. Music is great here: we have a lot of music festivals for indie artists and musicians like Alive After 5 music festival. There’s so much to do, musically, on Long Island. I feel like I have connected with a lot of talented musicians here.

Which artists did you follow when you were growing up?

Definitely, Demi Lovato! I would watch her as Mitchie on Camp Rock, which is my favorite childhood movie on the Disney Channel! She inspired me to not give up on my dreams and goals. I want to achieve my goals and make them into reality. Demi Lovato is number-one on my list. She seems like a cool person to hang out with - she is sweet, funny; smart and crazy-talented!

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

The goals I want to achieve at the end of 2018 are to go on tour (in 2019) to promote the self-titled record. I’m titling the tour I’ll Be Tour and then, maybe, I will title my world tour 'Jenna' after the album. My producer knows music venues and promoters so we will get that going next year! I love performing so much! So stay tuned for tour dates!

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Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

I mentioned that I will be announcing my I’ll Be Tour sometime next year to promote the album! I’m super-excited. I have to discuss with my producer about the venues I want to play - this has always been a dream, to go on tour. I can’t wait to announce the I’ll Be Tour in 2019!

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

Wow; there are so many memories of my time in music...

I would have to say when I stepped my foot into The Loft Sound Studio where I’m recording my self-titled record. I was recording covers in my first session and then I started recording music and vocals for my debut single. It was so much fun and emotional to record this debut single. This single means so much to me and I’m so glad it’s the single off my debut album. I want people to listen to the lyrics carefully and what the lyrics mean because it tells a story. The reason why I am going to The Loft Sound Studio is because of Madison Beer. She inspired me to make my album with Matt and Donnie, who are the producers of the studio. They are amazing, down-to-earth guys and I am so blessed to be working with them!

Which three albums mean the most to you would you say (and why)?

I would have to say Demi by Demi Lovato; Rainbow by Kesha and Confident by Demi Lovato. I’m telling you; Demi is my bad-ass! She is my favorite of all time. But, her self-titled album inspired me for my self-titled debut. Her songs on that album remind me of mine - because I am writing about my own struggles and experiences. Demi the album is so relatable and inspiring, so that’s why I’m making my own self-titled record.

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

I would support Madison Beer 100%. She is inspired me to go to The Loft Sound Studio where I’m recording for my debut album. She inspired me to be and stay as an independent artist and she inspires me to never give up. I love her song Fools from her new E.P., As She Pleases. I met Madison at the Gramercy Theatre on May 17th, 2018. She was the sweetest and I told her I go to The Loft and I told her she inspired me to go there - which made her feel so flattered and special. She is so special to me and my inspiration.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say just be yourself; keep practicing 24/7, keep taking vocal lessons and just do what you love. Doing what you love makes you the happiest person in the world. My motto is “You are beautifully and wonderfully made”, which is a quote from Demi Lovato from her book, Staying Strong. It hit me and I’m always saying to myself: “I am strong, independent and talented”. That’s what that quote means to me and I always stick to that motto. You are beautifully and wonderfully made; you are talented and God has a plan for you. Don’t ever let anyone get in the way of your potential!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Madison Beer

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I think there are a lot of artists you should check out! There is this one artist, Madison Beer. She was discovered by Justin Bieber and she is now independent with First Access Entertainment. She was signed with Def Jam Records. Now I feel like I can be independent because of her and you should check out her recent E.P., As She Pleases!

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

I never stop doing music! During my free time, I practice singing so I can get better; I’m songwriting for the album and I’m always in the studio. I can’t wait to share new music!

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).

Fools by Madison Beer (from the As She Pleases E.P.)

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INTERVIEW: Lunafruit

INTERVIEW:

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Lunafruit

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THE tremendous Lunafruit have set time aside…

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to talk about their latest single, Rise, and what its story is. They talk about meeting one another whilst playing as session musicians in the same studio; how they split their time between Barcelona and London – the guys highlight some upcoming musicians worth a shout.

Lunafruit reveal what they want to achieve by the end of this year; whether there is any more material arriving soon enough; whether they get any time to unwind away from music – 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?

Hey! Good - our week has been very full and very exciting. We’re in pretty intensive rehearsals for our summer tour at the moment, so really enjoying getting creative with our tracks in a live setting.

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

Sure thing. We’re Lunafruit; otherwise known as Elliot (Guitar, Vocals and Percussion), Sophie (Vocals, Keys and Sax) and Archie (Bass, Vocals and Sax). We’re a trio that sometimes has extra guests and our sound is somewhere between Pop, R&B; Soul and Funk.

Rise is your new single. What is the story behind the track?

Rise is a simple tune about that hazy time between sleep and waking up. We wrote it very quickly in a couple of hours on a summer evening whilst recording in Spain last year. We tried to capture that sense of simplicity in the production of the track - and we’re super-happy with how it’s gone down so far.

Lunafruit formed after the three of you met in your role as session musicians. Were you playing for the same artist – or did you happen to meet at the same studio?

Yeah! We were all working at a studio called Abubilla in South London a couple of years ago and realised we shared musical taste and wanted to make the same kind of music. So, we founded the project and here we are!

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You spread your time between South London and Barcelona. How do the contrasting areas affect your music? What is Barcelona like for music and gigs?

The two cities bring a really different energy to our songs, which were written between the two whilst Sophie was based out there this year. Obviously, in greyer days in London, Barcelona brought out a sunnier side to the tracks and we were really inspired by going to see lots of Latin-influenced music out there. Barcelona’s music scene is a lot smaller than London’s but full of diverse sounds from around the world. The two balance each other perfectly.

I understand there might be more material later in the year. Can you reveal whether that might be an E.P. or another single?

Yep - we’ve got an E.P. in the pipeline for later this year.

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Do you all share tastes in music? Do you recall the artists you grew up around?

Archie listens exclusively to Funk and Disco and resents the band for not letting him wear sunglasses while he plays bass.

If you were sent to a desert island and could only take one album – not nicking this from any radio show or anything! – which would it be and why?

Right now, it would be George Benson. We’ve been listening to a lot of his stuff doing rehearsals and it’s been providing a lot of energy and inspiration.

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

By the end of 2018, we want to have played a lot of shows, met lots of people and started some collabs. Also, Sophie wants to complete her Grade 3 castanet.

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

Archie once played the recorder with his nose on T.V. Don’t ask.

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

Vulfpeck would be dreamy. Our rider would include a lot of Penguin bars.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Play, play, play. Even the bad ones when no one’s listening.

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

We’re off to Scotland for some shows there as part of the Edinburgh Festival in August and then we’ve got our homecoming show at Kansas Smitty’s in London on 4th September.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Midas Hutch/PHOTO CREDIT: Fabio de Frel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Too many to mention! At the moment, we’re really into Midas Hutch, Poppy Ajudha and Emma-Jean Thackray as a starting point.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Poppy Ajudha

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

We’re pretty tunnel-vision on our project at the moment but, when we want some time, out we love going out for a good old-fashioned boogie - and a lazy day in the park always helps.

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).

Sophie: I Am in Love - Jennifer Lara

Archie: Stay for a While – Gibbz

Elliot: Family Affair - Sly and the Family Stone

Cheers!

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INTERVIEW: Two Legs

INTERVIEW:

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Two Legs

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I have been learning more about Two Legs…

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and his terrific new track, Grin. He gives me the lowdown on the song and talks about the possibility of more music. I ask where we might catch him play and the artists who inspire his sound – Two Legs recommends some upcoming musicians we would do well to follow.

I was keen to ask what music means to Two Legs and what he hopes to accomplish before the year is through; what he does when not making music; three albums that have made a big impression him – he shares a favourite memory from his time in music.

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Hi, Two Legs. How are you? How has your week been?

It's been the best week of my life. Thank you for asking. 

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

Hello everyone. My name is Two Legs and I produce Electronic music and I sing - and it's really great!

Did you watch the England game (semi-final) in the World Cup? What did you think of the result?!

I watched all the England games; it was great fun. But, ultimately, there are thirty-one losers in the tournament and we just became one of the many.

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Your single, Grin, is out. Can you tell me what the story behind the song is?

Grin is my first co-written release. The verse was written a few years ago by my mate Francis Kershaw under the alias 'Odd Socks'. Then, recently, I was making some beats and his verse line popped into my head. I then worked on a chorus, structure and, luckily, Francis approved of the final product. 

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The track is about letting things build up internally without speaking out about how you feel. In that sense, it looks at how our whole world is internal and how rarely we get to see this hidden part of each other in any full clarity. 

It is your third release of the year. Do you think there might yet be more material arriving before the end of 2018?

Yes, definitely. The attention span of the music industry moves so quickly; you have to keep up with it with regular releases. I've got loads of demos, so I'm just fine-tuning a couple to get ready for release.

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Are there particular musicians who have inspired you and contributed to your own sound?

Lots. Bands like Phoenix, Foals; Wild Nothing and Beach Fossils. Then, House/Techno/Ambient Electronic musicians like Moderat, David August; DJ Kose and Kiasmos etc. I've got a lot to thanks for those guys.

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

Worldwide fame, rehab; a glorious comeback and then rehab again.

Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

Yes, for sure. I'll be playing at the live residency I curate at Archspace in London called Limbs - a night created for live Electronic music. There are a few more options in the pipeline also.

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

My first gig with a band I was in during school. At the start of our final song, we threw many, many Jaffa Cakes into the crowd which then got chucked around a lot. The venue wasn't best pleased.

Is it possible to convey what music does to you and the power it holds?

Not entirely. I always find words can never really describe a track or how it makes you feel. That's why I quit music journalism: because attempting to describe music is inherently futile. Not to rain on your parade or anything - keep it up!

Which three albums mean the most you would you say?

Tycho – Dive

Always gives me shivers and a mega-powerful sense of nostalgia to summer when I was eighteen.

Kings of Convenience - Declaration of Dependence

The songwriting and use of space are unbelievable.

It's not an L.P., but an E.P., by Benoit & Sergio called Boy Trouble

It first got me into dance music and showed me it was possible to mix that House sound with melancholic; narrative, vocal-based songwriting.

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

I'd support Drake.

My rider would be a paddling pool of KFC gravy and an inflatable Cartman from South Park for me to chill in the pool with. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Only make the music that you want to make and that you connect with. Don't try and force it into something else you think is commercial because what is commercial changes so fast that, by the time you've made it, it's probably irrelevant - and then you've made a sh*t song for no reason. There's no longevity in that.

Also, the likelihood of any of us reaching financial stability through music is very slim so make sure you're enjoying the process rather than sacrificing yourself for an elusive end goal which you're not guaranteed to reach.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jude Woodhead

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jude Woodhead, Tungz; Mined, Paige Bea and Ben Wickins.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Paige Bea

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

I work in music during the day as a nine-five. Then, I need to find time to do all my Two Legs stuff, so there's not much time to unwind. I meditate, but not as much as I'd like to. Also; exercise is big for me to de-stress. I do love a bit of footy.

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).

Ten City - That's the Way Love Is (Underground Mix)

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INTERVIEW: Holloway Road

INTERVIEW:

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Holloway Road

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THE chaps of Holloway Road…

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have been talking with me about their single, No Place, and what it was like filming the video. I ask how the duo got together and what it is like recording in Nashville; some new artists we should look out for – the guys reveal what tour dates they have coming up.

Holloway Road tells me whether Country, in their view, gets the attention it deserves; who they count as idols; what they hope to achieve before the end of the year – the guys end the interview by choosing two very different songs!

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

Very good, thanks - until England went out of the World Cup! 

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

We are Holloway Road; the most badass Country-Pop duo you have never heard. 

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Are you enjoying the heatwave we are having at the moment?! Does it compel songwriting and inspiration?

Absolutely. Any excuse for Rob to wear his short shorts! The sun being out really puts your mind in a better place so, of course, it sparks inspiration. 

How did you form ‘Holloway Road’? Do you remember that first meeting?

We have both played in bands together since we were kids. We can remember a conversation in the smoking area of a club about five years ago talking about making music that we could get excited about and, five years later, this is where we are!

What is the tale behind the new single, No Place? What was it like filming the music video?

It's a very personal song because it's about our journey together so far. Filming the video was great fun but, be warned; when hopping on a retro BMX for the whole day as the seats are made of hard plastic. Very unpleasant. Haha. 

I know you have been recording in Nashville. Is it a place you feel at home in? Is it a pretty exciting place to record in?!

We have great friends in Nashville that have taken good care of us and always made us feel at home. 

As far as recording goes; we have not done much out there - most of our time in Nashville is spent songwriting - but what we did do was very laid back and people there tend to just let the creativity flow, which is how it should be.

You are inspired by Country and Pop. Which artists did you listen to growing up? Who do you count as idols?

We love everything from George Strait to Florida Georgia Line when it comes to Country music but we love all genres. 

It's the same with idols. Florida Georgia Line are a great act to look up to as we have similarities and watching what they have achieved in so little time is inspirational. But, there are too many to mention - from the Eagles to Justin Timberlake.

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Do you think Country music gets the attention and oxygen it deserves in this country? Do you think it warrants greater focus?

We certainly think it's getting there and will continue to grow, and rightly so!

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

The same thing as every year: progression! As long as we come out of every year feeling like we have moved forward and in the right direction to world domination then we can wake up happy.

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

Not one that sticks out, as we are constantly making great memories and hope to continue.

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

Florida Georgia Line! 

We always choose our own rider and it usually consists of beer and bananas. Mainly because Jack has a banana phobia, so everyone likes to wind him up.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep it fun!

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

Of course! We have a busy summer of festivals ahead of us before heading out for some tour dates later in the year - we're playing Nashville Meets London, Bestival; Carfest and The Long Road among others. Head over to www.hollowayroadmusic.com for all show updates and social media pages. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Levi Hummon/PHOTO CREDIT: Kate Dearman Photo

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Levi Hummon, The Brummies; Jillian Jacqueline, Russell Dickerson and Devin Dawson. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Jillian Jacqueline

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

Yes. All the things we shouldn't...

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).

Jack: Enya - Orinoco Flow

Rob: Kano - GarageSkankFREESTYLE

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INTERVIEW: ARI

INTERVIEW:

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ARI

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YOU definitely get a load of vibrancy, character and fun…

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when you speak with ARI. The American songwriter talks with me about her debut single, Baptize, and its story. She tells me about her childhood home and which musicians inspired her at a young age – ARI reveals how salsa dancing and cooking helps her relieve tension!

I ask her whether there are tour dates coming up and the chances of some U.K. dates; which upcoming artists we need to keep an eye out for; how she spends time away from music – ARI ends the interview by selecting a rather tasty song!

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

Hi, I'm ARI. Music is my passion; passion is my music. My musical passion is my passionate music. 

Baptize is your debut single. What is the story behind the song?

Baptize is the first song I had written for my solo project. It's a song of catharsis for me. I was in the midst of dealing with repressed waste and self-hatred and the way in which it's manifested into unhealthy and self-destructive behaviors. For me, it's about freedom from the chains of the mind we've shackled ourselves in.

Or something like that. 

Is it exciting having the song out there and ready? Do you already have visions of more material?

It's exciting, it's nerve-racking. I'm no cucumber. I'm desperate for validation and I want to be liked, loved and respected. Love me.

Yes. I write most days so the visions are ever-present in my day-to-day; sometimes I've spent the entirety of a day writing and I wake up the next day and realize it's sh*t. Other times, I feel connected to the song and it feels like I've released the story haunting me through that song. That's my favorite part about songwriting. Free therapy.  

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It seems you have been raised on the arts and around music. What was your childhood home like?

My folks are good people, good parents. They haven't made careers of making art, but they are artists in many ways. My father loves music and spent the majority of our time together during my childhood educating me on some of my favorite artists and driving me to and from dance rehearsals. My mother encouraged me with her abundant love and occasional ass-whoopings (kidding, mom, I love you.).

My childhood home was peach-colored on the outside, and inside, unfortunately. Our living room hosted reclining green-leathered La-Z-Boy sofas that my older brother used to hide things he broke around the house underneath. The kitchen had a white-tiled island and there was a guest bathroom with a warm toilet seat. Not a heated toilet seat, but warm still. Mostly from the excessive use. Busy house, busy toilet.

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Childhood was tough. No one knows what they're doing and then, when you're an adult and wreaking havoc on your own life, you're like: "Well, sh*t. That was a screwed up thing that happened in my childhood and I'm damaged and should probably work on that". We all have stuff. We're products of joyous moments and traumas and we fumble around on this planet until we die. I say that with a smile. I'm not a black hole. Usually. 

Tell me about the musicians that inspired you at a young age. Who are your heroes?

Leonard Cohen, Nina Simone and Sam Cooke are some of my heroes. The way in which they turn darkness into light is truly holy. 

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Is it true you cook and go salsa dancing to release tension and express yourself?!

TRUTH! I do love to cook. My grandmother and mother expressed so much love through preparing food during my youth. I hope I'm not perpetuating misogynistic stigmas of women in kitchens here, but the kitchen was where we shared stories, laughed; gossiped, yelled; cried and created dishes to share with people we loved. I love to cook. I love creating something from start to finish and consuming it with such quick turnover.

Making music takes a little longer. Yes, I do salsa dance; not just salsa, though. I used to be a ballroom dancer. Dancing is a delicious way to release. It's primal, it's liberating…

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

Right now, I'm doing shows around my hometown of Los Angeles, where I currently live. More to come soon….

Might you come to the U.K. and play here? What is the live music scene like where you are?

I do plan to come to the U.K. In fact, I'll be there next month for writing and recording sessions. I may even do a show whilst over there. I love it there. Looking forward to spending time in your neck of the woods. 

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

Lord, if I did not, why even wake up every morning? Hamster-wheel life is depressive. I'll be releasing new songs all year and doing shows. I'll have a full-length album done and released by the end of the year.  

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

I love how you spell ‘favourite’. Much sexier than my American version. My favorite memory from my time in music is happening now. I'm writing less how I think people want me to write and more from a place of how I actually think and speak. It feels good being honest. Is that a memory? Not really. I don't answer questions properly. Sorry. 

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

Nina Simone's Pastel Blues; Leonard Cohen's Songs of Love and Hate and the Bee Gees' Main Course.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Moses Sumney

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. Two of my dear friends and collaborators, Saro and Neek. Also; Moses Sumney. He's not new by any stretch but, if you're not familiar with his work, get familiar. He's a genius.

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

I do. I spend a significant chunk of time with my not-so-baby brother. We live together and he's my best friend. He's brilliant and very much an active part of my life. We explore art, music and the inner-workings of our brains together. He's a cool cat and an artist as well. I hate him a lot…can you tell?

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).

Moses Sumney's Worth It

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