INTERVIEW: Caroline Kole

INTERVIEW:

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Caroline Kole

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I have been speaking with Caroline Kole…              

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about her new single, What If, and how it came together. She reveals whether there will be more material and takes me back to the start of her career – I ask which artists she grew up listening to and whether she has a precious memory from her time in music.

Kole tells me the three albums that mean a lot to her; some rising artists we need to get behind; whether there are going to be any gigs coming later in the year; some useful advice for artists emerging – she ends the interview by selecting a bit of a modern classic.

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

Hello! My week has been great (smiles). We put out a single, What If, last week and it’s been getting really fun press! So, just busy with the promotion of that and, of course, ordering fall-semester textbooks!

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

Of course! I’m Caroline Kole. I recently turned twenty-one! Woo! I’m a full-time artist and full-time college student. I started on the music scene when I was eight; performing out at ten and opening for massive Country acts shortly thereafter and touring internationally with Reba McEntire in high-school.

We had success with #1 music videos on C.M.T. (Country Music Television) and lots of love and play from Sirius XM’s The Highway! Unreal experiences! The music evolved from Country to Pop when I took a gap year after high school - and now here we are on the surface of that new journey! I’m having so much fun (smiles).

What If is your latest single. What is the story behind the song?

Haha, well; who hasn’t asked their self “what if” at some point in their life? Since I’m where I’m at in life, I find myself asking that question a lot in regards to relationships. I tend to go after the boys I know I shouldn’t but, ya know what, what if I just went up and got him?! I have a tendency to go after what, and who, I want!

Is there going to be an E.P. or album next year, perhaps?

Perhaps (smiles). We have a lot of great remixes of What If coming out in the next couple weeks, along with lots of new music lined up! You and I will both see how we end up releasing it all. Haha!

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You began your career at age eight (in Florida) and found your way to Nashville. How did you find yourself there? How important were the Bluebird Café and an encounter with Reba McEntire?

I had been going to Nashville for a couple years writing, forming relationships; cutting my chops before I met Reba. She came to a writer’s round I was playing at the Bluebird Cafe and I immediately started working with her and my manager Narvel Blackstock. That introduction was vital to my early career and, without a doubt, is the reason for the success that I had then and now!

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

Hahaha. My musical upbringing might be why I listen to the mix up of music that I do. I grew up on Pat Benatar, Brooks & Dunn; The Cranberries, Reba; Simon & Garfunkel, The Police and I remember my very first concert - Kelly Clarkson! Right after she had won American Idol…and I fell asleep towards the end (smiles).

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

My goal for the end of 2018 - and even just in general - is to release as much music as I can for people to listen to! I’m writing all the time, so I want to keep giving it to people! Hopefully, we’ll jump back into the touring scene (you’ll be the first to know!) but, right now, I’m so focused on writing alllll the songssss!

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

It’s honestly surreal when I think back on all the experiences I’ve had. One of my most memorable moments, though, is when I was getting ready to walk out to perform my opening for Reba and she was getting ready to go on stage after me (looking fabulous and sparkly and wonderful as always) and she said: “You and I are a lot alike, you know.” I still can’t really process that phrase. She’s the Queen of Country Music, for crying out loud!

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

Sheryl Crow – Detours

It will always take me back to Florida. My dad played that album all the time at our house and it will forever take me back to the “Salty/messed up hair from the boat ride, so let’s all jump in the pool until our fingers and toes are little prunes!”.

Twenty One Pilots – Blurryface

I’ve been a fan of them for years and seeing their success makes me so overwhelmingly happy - and that tour was INCREDIBLE. They know how to put on a show. 

Ingrid Michaelson - Human Again

This is the album that I listened to NON-STOP in high-school! Takes me back. Her lyrics are so real and quirky and I’ve always loved that about Ingrid (smiles).

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

Oh wow...I would say Twenty One Pilots but, honestly, I’d just be awkward the whole time. Ha! Either Ariana Grande, Katy Perry or Taylor Swift - they are such strong females in the Pop world and each of them knows how to put on a show! Such professionals! Great role models - and I’d love to get to know them on a personal level! Who wouldn’t?! (Smiles).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be prepared for everything! Be able to stay calm and collected when - not if - something doesn’t go as planned. It’s a crazy industry. If you can hang in there the universe will reward you!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Tove Styrke 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

SO MANY: Tove Styrke, Remmi; MUNA, VÉRITÉ and Superfruit to name a few.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: MUNA/PHOTO CREDIT: ELLE Magazine (US)

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

Music is kind of a lifestyle - one that I love! I have a really cool cat named Rikki that I like to cuddle and snuggle with when I have a free moment. I also enjoy shopping and finding new brands/boutiques. My bank account does not enjoy that hobby.

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

I choose....Mr. Brightside by The Killers!

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INTERVIEW: The Velveteins

INTERVIEW:

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The Velveteins

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SPENCER of The Velveteins…

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has been speaking with me about the band's new single, All Night Baby, and what its roots are. I ask about the song’s animated video and whether there will be any more material coming along; whether the group all share music tastes; if we might see some tour dates come through – he tells me how they got together and started playing.

I ask Spencer which new acts we should watch out for; how important it is being on stage and getting the music to the people; the advice for artists emerging – he reveal what they hope to achieve before the end of this year.

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

Very chill and relaxing. Mid-summer mojo is making everything feel good.

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

We are a band. We play songs we like. Addison (the drummer) and myself (Spencer, the singer/guitarist) write most of the music. We like old '60s Pop bands and newer rippin’ Psych bands and combine that in a way that sounds good to us.

All Night Baby is your new song. How did it come to be? What inspired the track?

We wrote it in mid-winter in 2016. It came together quick and easy. Kind of inspired by the fruitless nights of being young and watching young drunk people stumble around in the dark.

I like the video and its animation style. Can you explain how it was shot?

We shot it ourselves on this old Japanese 3-D film camera. Then, I stitched it all together and animated over top in ways that I thought were interesting.

How did The Velveteins form? When did you all meet one another?

I (Spencer) formed the band when I returned from living in Australia in 2014. We were all somewhat familiar with each other from brief encounters in the Edmonton music scene but I got the word out and asked Addison to be a part of the group. Dean (bassist) came along a little later.

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Might we see more material from you in the coming months? Are you working on other stuff?

Certainly. We’re working diligently on new tasty things. Not sure about timeline yet, though.

Do you all have similar musical tastes? What sort of stuff are you all into?

We all have vaguely similar tastes: older '60s Pop and Soul. Newer Indie bands too.

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

Going on tour again in the fall and perhaps have some new songs out for sure.

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Do you think there will be touring dates? Can we catch you on tour?

Yes indeed tour dates. Not to be announced yet but mostly Canada and the U.S.

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

Being on stage is certainly a big part of it, but not the entire picture. Making a record is a whole different experience. One is introspective and the other one just raw extroverted energy. It takes two different minds to do each one. I like making records because it has unlimited potential unbounded by any sort of restraint.

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

We got to work with Lincoln Parish who played with Cage the Elephant on our first E.P. That was pretty insane because I grew up loving that band and suddenly here we were using all the same gear they used on Thank You, Happy Birthday. It blew my mind a little bit. Plus, I was only nineteen and couldn’t even go out and drink, so we had to get Lincoln to boot beers for us while we were hanging.

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

Support Elton John - and have thirty bottles of Tequila side-stage

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just gotta keep crackin’ at it as long as you live.

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IN THIS IMAGE: jo passed/TRACEOVER CREDIT: Ivanna Maria/ORIGINAL PHOTO CREDIT: @bellabebe__ (Instagram)

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

jo passed from Vancouver is sick. Also; the band LOVING.

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

I usually just drive to Tofino in my campervan and go surfing off-grid for a few days.

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

I choose Peace Blossom Boogy by The Babe Rainbow. It’s a banger

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INTERVIEW: Desirée Dawson

INTERVIEW:

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Desirée Dawson

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I have been speaking with Desirée Dawson…

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about her new single, Just Fine, and what its story is. She discusses the musicians she counts as role models and whether we might see more material coming down the tracks – the Canadian artist reveals her favourite albums and what she hopes to achieve by the end of this year.

I was keen to know whether we could catch her tour and what advice she would give to fellow songwriters; if she has a favourite memory from music so far; which upcoming acts we need to get behind – she ends the interview with a brilliant song.

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

The week has been so great. Very full and exhausting but great overall!

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

I am a singer-songwriter from Vancouver, BC (Canada) which is the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Coast Salish First Nations people. My music is always authentic and my instrument of choice is my voice; although, I do support my voice with the baritone ukulele. The music I create is a deep dive into the human condition; drawing from my own life experiences and the experiences of those around me.

I have been writing and making music for a while but, since winning the CBC Searchlight Contest in 2016, things really have been expanding and growing for me in so many ways. Many of my songs have been playing across Canada on CBC Radio 2  and other stations. I am so thankful for the support as it has really helped allow the music I make to reach more people.

Just Fine is your latest single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

Just Fine is about me acknowledging these two sides of myself. One side is very fear-based: it’s scared, worried and confused and often tells me things like: ‘I should give up and stop trying to follow my dreams’. I've come to realize that this side of me is just trying to keep me safe. There is another side of me that is also trying to keep me safe, but not with scare tactics. This other side LOVES when I’m adventurous and wild. This part of me does not even comprehend playing small and is always encouraging me to listen to my heart’s deepest desires and to run, jump and dive into it!

Because both of the parts of me are trying to keep me safe, they battle all the time. Hahaha. The song is about acknowledging them but letting them both know that I’m going to be just fine. After sharing this song for the first time, I got such a wonderful response from people. They also felt the same! Every show I play I have at least two people say: "Get out of my head! How did you know I was thinking these things?!" or "I feel like you just read out my diary in front of all of these people!".  I am so excited that this song allows me to express and be vulnerable, all while creating a space for others to do the same.

Might we see an E.P. or album later in the year, perhaps?

I have so many songs that are just begging to be let out into the world, so I feel like I will stick to putting out singles over the next little bit. But, I do have some E.P. plans in the works as well. Nothing concrete yet.

Which musicians inspired you growing up? Who do you count as role models?

I grew up listening to artists such as Lady Smith Black Mambazo, Stevie Wonder; Des’ree and Tracy Chapman as a young child and found myself listening to the likes of Lauryn Hill, Beyoncé; Daughter, Adele; Amy Winehouse, Lily Allen; Alicia Keys and a lot of Motown artists in my teens/early adult life. I think a combo of all of these musical storytellers, plus many of others, have helped inspire and guide me over the years.

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

More lovely music; more lovely collaborations and connections. Also; I have some pretty amazing tours planned - stay tuned! (Smiles).

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

A moment that is currently sticking out is when I played a festival in my hometown of White Rock, BC. My hometown is beautiful but it's a place where I hold some painful memories. I remember being on stage singing a song that was so vulnerable and I was scared how it would be received. I almost did not sing it. I was singing so strong, from my heart; on a stage right next to the ocean and, to my surprise, the song was a hit! I was met with so much love and support.

It felt like a homecoming to my hometown and truly stepping into myself (and accepting myself). So many people that day came up letting me know how much the connected to the song. It was a really special moment. The song is called Hey Brother - off my debut album, Wild Heart.

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

Gift of the Tortoise – Ladysmith Black Mambazo

I was afraid of the dark as a kid and my sister and I used to listen to Gift of the Tortoise to fall asleep when we were kids. It inspired me to see music as a source of light in the darkness. This album taught me that music is a powerful healer and that a whole song can be filled with life, even without any instruments! Oh, how powerful the human voice can be. It also was a nice glimpse into a culture very different than the one I grew up in as a young child - and I am very grateful to have been able to go to that place every night as a little one!

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill/MTV Unplugged No. 2.0 – Lauryn Hill and 19 - Adele

Both Lauryn and Adele were crucial for me. Watching women express themselves so vulnerably and to tell such moving stories with their lyrics, but also with they range in their vocals, was really important for me to do what I do.

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

I would love to support Lianne La Havas, Alessia Cara; Alicia Keys or Lauryn Hill.

Here is a glimpse into my dream rider: peppermint tea, roasted dandelion tea; almonds, organic fruit platter; a clean floor to do yoga on, water; diffuser with peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils in it; a couple blankets and pillows for my team and myself to take a little nap if needed.

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Can we see you on tour soon? What dates are coming up?

Stay tuned for dates at www.desireedawsonmusic.com.

Might you come to the U.K.? Do you like British music?

I do like British music and I hope to be in the U.K. next summer!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself! Do your thing! The world is in need of YOU, not another version of someone else.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Alysha Brilla

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

They are not necessarily new,  but I am going to send you a list of just a few of my fave Canadian artist in the scene who have recently put out some new stuff that is definitely worthy of checking out A.S.A.P.:

Alysha Brilla - Rooted (album)

Matt Storm - You Still Stay (single)

Sam Lynch - Light and Lines (E.P.)

Missy D + Kimmortal - XX (single)

Khari Wendell McClelland - Freedom Singer (album)

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Khari Wendell McClelland

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

Lately, it’s been pretty hectic and I don’t have much time to chill. Luckily, I have expanded my team a bit and have more hands on deck so I am able to carve out little bits of the day for myself. I like to be with the trees somewhere. I like to be in my apartment with my plants and lay on the floor listening to other people's music. I like to spend time with my dear friends and be near the ocean or any big body of water!

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).

Beats ‘n’ Stops - Alysha Brilla

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INTERVIEW: Overdog

INTERVIEW:

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Overdog

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THE guys of Overdog have been…

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talking with me about their new cut, Question Mark, and what it was like working at Decimal Studios with Chris Coulter. The band talk about their formation and the sort of sounds they are influenced by; whether there is more material coming down the line – I ask whether we can catch them on tour this year.

Overdog recommends some upcoming artists to look out for and tell me how they chill away from music; whether, in their view, Alternative sounds are coming back to the fore; what their favourite career memories are – they provide some useful advice for artists coming through.  

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

Sam: Good, thanks! We’re all pretty busy preparing for our first tour and a new round of recordings, as well as lots of non-musical stuff.

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

Olly: We play intricate, melodic Rock music, with an emphasis on vocal harmonies and layered guitar parts.

Rob: I usually describe our sound as something of a fusion of Jimmy Eat World and Fleetwood Mac…

Sam: Maybe with some Biffy Clyro thrown in.

Adam: But there are some Post-Rock influences too.

Steve: It’s complicated...

Question Mark is your latest single. Is there a tale behind the song?

Olly: A certain relationship made me reflect on the limits of storytelling, and literature in particular, as a metaphor for understanding my own life. The characters of a book can’t change how their story ends. People, to varying extents, often can. I wrote the song in response to those feelings. But, hopefully, people can find their own meaning and have their own response to the song.

What was it like working with Chris Coulter and recording at Decimal Studios?

Rob: Working with Chris was a pleasure. He’s a chill guy but really knows his trade. He took the nebulous, half-formed ideas we had for the single and quickly turned them into tangible, awesome little additions.

Sam: He had exacting attention to detail, especially with all things guitar. I think he pushed us to a higher level in that way.

Rob: Decimal Studios is great; set up on a private island in the middle of the Thames near Hampton. When you amble across the bridge onto the lot, you feel like you are stepping into your own little private world. The surroundings really let us get into a great creative headspace.

How did Overdog get together? Was that an instant spark between you?

Olly: Most of us met at university and played in various bands together but, when this band got going in 2011, I invited Rob to join us - I’d played with him in a band at school. So, there was a pretty good set of musical relationships there already, but something definitely ‘clicked’ when all five of us played together the first time.

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Your music has a great Indie/Rock sound. Do you think guitar music is evolving and coming back to the fore right now?

Sam: Personally, I think we have to talk about music evolution differently in the streaming age. I think that while there’s still a ‘mainstream’ of sorts, the easy accessibility of so much music opens up all these niches. I think people are listening within all these little genre bubbles and, you as a musician, you can do whatever you want and find your niche.

Adam: I think the distinctions between different styles such as ‘guitar music’ are becoming less important as time goes by as artists are incorporating ever more diverse sounds and instrumentation into their work. There is now so much cross-pollination between different genres the lines have become blurred.

Sam: I would say, though, that people still fundamentally want to see bands with stage chemistry and who take joy in performing – as well as having some original twists.

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

Absolutely. We’re into a new phase of recording now and there will be more singles coming over the next few months, eventually leading to a full-length album. Watch this space.

Are you all inspired by the same sort of music? Are there particular artists that helped you find your own sound?

Olly: There are a few bands we all enjoy - Jimmy Eat World the most obvious example – but, really, we’re a very eclectic bunch. Rob listens to a lot of British and Irish Folk alongside bombastic Heavy Metal, whilst Adam has a background in Jazz, for example.

Rob: I think these broad and often contrasting tastes in music help us to write in unexpected or unconventional ways.

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

Sam: it would be great to get a touring slot and/or summer festival slot for next year. We’ve played a couple of urban festivals and are doing a short tour this month - but the full-on tour and festival experiences would be great.

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

Rob: Our gig at 93 Feet East on Brick Lane (in London) was memorable for me personally. Being a five-piece, we can often feel quite packed in on smaller stages but there we had room to really get in the zone and perform with a bit of swagger.

Olly: For me, it was the whole process of making The Breeze That Hits Your Ear, our E.P. from 2016. It was the culmination of a drawn-out but inspiring creative process and only possible thanks to the generosity of family and friends who supported our crowdfunding for the recording costs.

Adam: In a different vein, one of my favourite memories is when we all went slightly mad during an extended practice session in an underground car park in Zürich and invented a game called ‘Flangeponce’. I’ll say no more…

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

Rob: If they ever got back together, I’d love to support My Chemical Romance. I feel like Rock today is sorely lacking in genuine frontmen and women but Gerard Way is one of them. He’s one of the best Rock entertainers from the last twenty years and wants to put on a real show, rather than just play a gig. Sharing a stage with him and the rest of M.C.R. would be a blast.

Steve: I've always thought Muse put on a great live show - each of them are brilliant musicians and I love the range of sounds and influences that Chris Wolstenholme plays with. So, I'd love to play a show with them.

The rider would consist of lots of pain au chocolat…

Adam: …and lots of pasta and pesto…

Olly: …and hummus.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Sam: Not to underestimate how important it is to keep developing your craft, your performance skills; your core music abilities. There have been times when I lost sight of this and felt like ‘we’re ready; we just need to get noticed’, when, really, there was still work to be done in honing my skills as a performer.

Adam: I don’t feel wise enough yet to give any advice…but, I guess the important thing is, if you love what you do, then you’re already successful.

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

Olly: We usually play in Central and East London but we are playing in Leeds on Tues, 31st July, Manchester on Wed, 1st August and Oxford on Fri, 3 August alongside some great acts from the States. Come!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Those Handsome Animals

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sam: Some of the best acts we’ve played alongside so far include Those Handsome Animals (major-key-punky, melodic Rock); Acrylic (spacey, Scottish Indie) and Andy Ruddy (singer-songwriter; unforgettable voice).

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Acrylic

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

Rob: Well, I’m an avid video gamer. But, I’d say video games are equal parts relaxation and irritation! Especially where competitive multiplayer games like Overwatch are concerned...

Adam: Usually, I like to read a book or listen to podcasts. I just finished reading the wonderful Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman which I’d especially recommend to anyone living in London, and my favourite podcast at the moment is the surreal and hilarious Athletico Mince.

Sam: We all chill out in different ways but I think we’re all highly aware of the importance of time off. You’ll produce your best stuff when you have that balance.

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).

Rob: I’d love if you could play Sam Kelly & The Lost Boys’ Chasing Shadows. Sam Kelly was a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent years ago and, since then, he’s gone on to become one of the most exciting young artists in British Folk!

Sam: Adam introduced me to the Dutch band The Mysterons and I’ve been obsessed with Turkish Delight for the past two or three months

Adam: Please could you play Compendium by Elder (from their album, Lore)

Olly: Phoebe Bridgers’ version of The Gold by Manchester Orchestra

Steve: I've been enjoying a lot of Frank Turner recently as a nice Rock/Folk mix. It'd be great if you could play Peggy Sang the Blues; mostly because I really like the bassline.

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INTERVIEW: Jeen

INTERVIEW:

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Jeen

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I have been finding out more…

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about Jeen and her new track, Any Moment. The Canadian artist talks to me about her upcoming album, Gift Shop, and whether particular themes have inspired the songs; whether she feels there has been a change and evolution in her work since the early days – Jeen chooses a few albums that are special to her.

I ask if there are any tour dates coming up and what advice she’d give to artists coming through; if she gets time to relax away from music; which artists have inspired her; whether she has any goals to accomplish before the end of the year – she ends the interview by selecting a classic cut.

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

I’m good (smiles). Busy!

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

I’m Jeen. Been putting out records on my own for a while now. I haven’t had to get a real job yet (smile).

Any Moment is your latest track. Can you talk about its origins and backstory?

It almost didn’t get on the record. I had written it for my publisher just to have and they had a big reaction to it; they asked if I could re-record it for the album. So, I played it for Ian Blurton (who was mixing the rest of album at the time) and he had the same reaction to the track. We decided to do it at Ian’s studio (he played some guitars and co-produced it with me) so it had a bigger sound than I can get in my attic.

Gift Shop is your upcoming album. Are there particular themes and personal stories that inspired the music?

For sure. I’m a bit of an anti-social introvert so that’s an ongoing theme. Haha. Trump had been recently elected at the time of demoing stuff so the state of the world was also on my mind. The general vibe is getting through life without losing it.

Do you think you have grown in confidence since your earliest work? Have you learnt anything about yourself whilst making Gift Shop?

Tons. I was never a producer but here I am making/producing my own records. This has been a huge learning curve and I feel I finally hit a bit of a stride with this album. It took a couple records but I think I know what I like now and, more importantly, how to achieve it. Keeping it simple so I don’t get in over my head. The addition of Ian Blurton mixing has also been a godsend. I can’t say enough about him and I hope to use him for everything moving forward.

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Are there particular musicians who struck your ear when you were growing up? Who do you count as idols?

Ah, geeze. The Who, Pink Floyd; The Beatles, Beastie Boys; Janes Addiction, Nirvana…I was a '90s kid, so pretty good time for music. I also worshipped Cindy Lauder as a little kid.

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

I hope I’m writing songs for my next record by the end of this year.

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

Will have fall dates to announce soon but I only have one show booked July 24 in Toronto at the Monarch Tavern (9 P.M.).

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

I’ve been in bands since I was fifteen, so there are lots of memories. Last year, I did a writing camp in London (England). It was the first time I had been there, so that was cool.

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

Hard question. There are so many more than three, but here a few that really hit me:

Nevermind by Nirvana

I remember it coming on the radio and we were like ‘W.T.F. is this!’.

DFA - You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine

Such a great, heavy album. I’ve listened to it, like, a thousand times.

Radiohead - The Bends

It’s a pretty epic album.

Rubber Soul by The Beatles

That’s four. Ha.

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

Opening for Radiohead would be pretty dreamy.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t follow trends. Don’t undervalue yourself; music shouldn’t be free.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I don’t really listen to music anymore, to be honest. Sounds weird, but true. Hopefully, I’ll get out of this shi**y habit and then I’ll let you know (smiles).

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

I have three dogs so they’re good for that - and CBD. Haha.

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

Hmmm. Let’s say Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd

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Follow Jeen

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INTERVIEW: Burning Velvet

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Silas Risbjerg Terkelsen

Burning Velvet

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THE Danish artist Burning Velvet…

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PHOTO CREDIT: Silas Risbjerg Terkelsen

has been talking with me about his new single, Fragile (released on 3rd August), and what it is all about. I ask what the music scene is like in Denmark right now and if he can reveal anything about his forthcoming album – Burning Velvet reveals which three albums are most important to him.

The songwriter discusses what he hopes to achieve before the end of the year; which artists he grew up listening to; whether there are going to be any gigs coming up; if we might see Burning Velvet play in the U.K. – he selects a great song to end the interview with.

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Hi, Burning Velvet. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m doing real fine. I am having a holiday from my day-job…so, I am having a good time with my family and playing a lot of guitar and writing new songs.

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

Well. I have been performing under the moniker ‘Burning Velvet’ for about six or seven years now. Burning Velvet came into being just after I moved with my family from my hometown of Copenhagen to the small town of Svendborg. In 2016, I signed with the small Danish label Celebration Records. In 2016, I released a digital single and a vinyl 12” with two tracks recorded mono, straight-to-tape. In 2017, I released my debut full-length titled Night Light//Slow Grass as a double-vinyl L.P. (three-hundred copies) and also on streaming services worldwide. The album is written, produced and recorded in my home and is my own take on lo-fi Folk - with inspiration from traditional American music genres such as Bluegrass, Country-Folk and Blues.

Following the album release, I went on a large tour in Denmark, Germany and Switzerland; give solo shows alongside Long Tall Jefferson (Switzerland) and Poor Nameless Boy from Canada. After recording, mainly solo, I decided to make a new sound and I put together a band with my good friends and great musicians from Copenhagen. So, the current direction for Burning Velvet is less traditional and uses synths, female vocal and a whole bunch of other tricks.

Fragile is your latest single. Can you reveal the story and how the song started life?

Yes, that’s true. I wrote the first drafts on the song about two-and-a-half years ago. I was having a condition with my left shoulder, meaning it popped out of the socket every other minute. So, I had to get it stitched back together again and this meant many weeks of not being able to use both hands. So, I couldn´t work, play the guitar or anything much really. But, I have this old electronic ELKA organ with a cheesy rhythm section So, I could make the music on this using just my right hand. Back to the theme of the song…this little setback of mine made me think how fragile we really are and how quickly things can change.

In a broader sense, I just wanted to bring thought to changeability and that we should really appreciate whatever good we have around us. Things can easily fall apart – and, for the human race, I think that social cohesion is of very big importance as an agent of keeping a balanced world situation.

It is from your forthcoming album. Are there particular themes that inspired the record? What can we expect?

The record is titled LISTEN. That is meant in a wide sense of the word. Of course, I hope people will listen carefully to my music and, especially, I hope that my lyrics somehow will inspire thought for the listener. But, the title is meant to reflect that we all could benefit from listening as opposed to just hearing what is happening around us; that we should understand what really happens in the world before we judge or take action. I think a true understanding of the state of things is very often bypassed in these times - overflowing with information coming in large from the big social media platforms.

The songs Standing in the Sun (released in May) and Never Mind Me have been written with today’s children and young people in mind - and the need of keeping this planet a good place for generations to come. Also, a central theme in the songs is changeability and the responsibility of adults to keep peace and make the world a progressively better place for their children.

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PHOTO CREDIT: RISBJERG.IN Creative Playground FB

As a Danish artist; can you tell me what the music scene is like there right now? Are there a lot of great artists coming through?

I think the Danish music scene is quite interesting right now. When I was young, most Danish bands did not really catch me. But, I think the scene has developed quite a lot the last ten-fifteen years. There is a lot of original, high-quality music coming out. There is a big underground scene with Punk kind of things; there is a good Psych-Rock scene and we have good Electronic names.

Also, where I live - in the small town of Svendborg (only twenty-seven-thousand) - we have a good music scene keeping up with around seven/eight-hundred live music events a year. I was a little anxious of moving from Copenhagen to a small town but Svendborg has proven to be a great music city to me. There are so many great musicians and people are very open and try new constellations.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Silas Risbjerg Terkelsen

Which artists did you follow when you were growing up?

Well. At a very young age, I indulged in my father’s vinyl collection with The Who, Led Zeppelin; Jimi Hendrix, Neil Young; Lou Reed, Velvet Underground; Pink Floyd and all those '60s and '70s greats. I was a teenager in the '90s, so there was a huge development in the music scene when I was in high-school. But at the time I listened to Nirvana, Sonic Youth; Red Hot Chili Peppers and Primus.

Then came Trip-Hop and I was very much into Portishead, Massive Attack; Tricky and Morcheeba. I also was, and still am, a big fan of Morphine (from Boston in the U.S.). Calexico and Sixteen Horse Power; Mojave Three, Red House Painters; Dirty Three, Nick Cave; Giant Sand, Howe Gelb and those great American Recordings - Johnny Cash also influenced me quite a lot.

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

I am releasing my sophomore album and I hope to start recording my third album this fall. I already have songs for a couple of albums – they are taking in new directions. Also, I hope to get some good live shows.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Silas Risbjerg Terkelsen

Do you think you will visit Britain this year at all? Do you like music from the U.K.?

We don´t have any dates in Britain as for now. I like a lot of the music coming from U.K. The Stone Roses are a favourite of mine - and all the Trip-Hop bands have had a great impact on me.

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

Burning Velvet will be a special guest at the only Calexico (a U.S. band) concert in Denmark this year. That will be August 20th and we are playing a new very intimate festival in Denmark called Høst Møn in August. We are currently working on a getting a showcase at Reeperbahn Festival (in Hamburg) in September - that might be the show closest to Britain this year. Hopefully, we will get a chance to play somewhere in Britain in the future.

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

I have a lot of good and bad memories – but, what comes to mind first is when I was in my twenties and had a Trip-Hop band called Tibitinas. Young and full of hope, we went to Bristol with our three-song demo...hoping for Tricky or 3D to be hanging around the next corner and see our talent (smiles). Of course, that didn´t happen. But, we shopped around with our demo to all the small labels in Bristol and then went on to London.

We ended up in Glasgow where we met the drummer from Teenage Fanclub who liked our music and had a small label with a friend - and he was eager to put out our music. So, we rushed home to Denmark and made a full album. But, for some reason, nothing came of releasing in the U.K. and we ended up releasing it ourselves.

This might sound a downer of a story but, to me, it is a great memory of travelling the U.K. with my best friend and being all worked-up with our new sounds just taking in the world.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Silas Risbjerg Terkelsen

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

The most important album to me would be Yes by Morphine

I heard them live in New Orleans and it was a very special evening seeing Mark Sandman - and me discovering the album at a very open stage in my life.

Sweetheart of the Rodeo or Easy Rider (soundtrack) by The Byrds

That introduced me to the Country genre, alongside Neil Young’s Harvest.

Also, the album Weld (live album) by Neil Young & Crazy Horse

It is just the greatest Rock record I know. Those guitar sounds are so great.

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

Neil Young would be a good bet. Including a chat with his guitar tech (smiles). But, supporting Calexico this August means a great deal to me. I have a been a fan since their first record, Spoke, so that is huge for me too.

As for the rider; a friend of mine told me it should always hold Prosecco (wine).

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PHOTO CREDIT: Silas Risbjerg Terkelsen

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make art! Put some depth into the art you are making. Play live whenever you can; write great lyrics, write great music and play with feeling to the best of your abilities.

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

I have a full-time day-job, too; a family and two beautiful kids. So, playing and writing music is my kind of unwinding.

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).

Sometimes, I play with my friend, Jeppe Højgaard. He is a very gifted musician playing Free-Jazz/Free-Folk. He makes some pretty artsy Folk. Give it a go if you have your ears open to something out of the ordinary

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Follow Burning Velvet

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INTERVIEW: Chantitown

INTERVIEW:

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Chantitown

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WITH her E.P., Cause and the Cure…

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out in the world; I have been speaking with Chantitown about the stories that go into it; what it was like working with Jim Hustwit; whether she grew up around a lot of music as a child – Chantitown highlights some new artists that are worth some serious time.

I ask whether we might see any tour dates coming through; Chantitown reveals a few albums that impact her in a big way; what she does to relax outside of music; what advice she would give to artists coming through – she picks a couple of great songs to end the interview with.

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

I’m hot…there is a heatwave in London which is amazing on the one hand as people are smiling but, on the other hand, we are clearly not conditioned for such heat in the city - dreaming of the coast as we speak! I’ve been recording my second E.P. in the studio. It’s been a good week.

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

OK. I am Chantitown. I have just released my debut E.P., Cause and the Cure, and, if you have not experienced my music, I can try to sum it up by saying it will take you on an epic journey. I kind of cross genres so it’s hard to describe my sound, but it’s a fusion of percussion, guitar, strings and electronic sounds. It’s taking Folk and Indie roots and displaying it with my own fresh, contemporary twist. That sounds like it made zero sense. Forgive me; it made sense to me!      

Cause and the Cure, your new E.P., is out. Are there distinct themes and points of reference that influenced the songwriting?

I like to tell stories through my songs based on real moments - usually my own moments - but I tell other people’s stories, too. Themes on this E.P., I would say, include reflection, acceptance and letting go.

Is it easy, when recording an E.P., to look from the outside and watch it all form – or are you completely immersed and only really take it in at the very end?

I am passionate about telling a story: I get fully immersed but it’s not aimless without direction. I know exactly where I am heading with a song. Sometimes, I am surprised where is leads me but most of the time I know where it’s heading.  I’m not a control freak, just clear on my vision.

What was it like working with Jim Hustwit on the E.P.?

It’s amazing working with Jim. He is ridiculously-talented. I am really fortunate he was able to work with me. Not only does he share my wicked sense of humour (I am surprised we get any recording done with all the laughing) but he actually understands me and all the weird sounds in my head that keep me up at night. I don’t think I would have produced this E.P. in quite the same way without him. I will be forever grateful we crossed paths.

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

Gosh, yes! I had such a passion for music. My mum was a walking-radio with no ‘off’ button: she never stopped singing so, yep, I grew up around a lot of noise! By the time I was in high-school, my dad upgraded us from terrestrial T.V. to satellite; I was hooked on MTV and VH1. I listened to absolutely everyone from Nirvana to Janis Joplin. The million hours on Unplugged, watching The Cranberries, Eric Clapton; Alanis Morissette and Pearl Jam. The list is endless.

In terms of songwriting; Carole King, Stevie Nicks; Tracy Chapman and Joni Mitchell all fuelled my hunger for writing songs that had meaning and depth. It helped me refine my own style. On the other end of the spectrum, I also listen to Jay-Z, Biggie Smalls and Tupac; so I’m mean at rapping…like, seriously good. Ha! I am constantly inspired, daily.

How important is your heritage and parents regarding the sort of sounds you like and how you approach music?

I was born and raised in London but my parents’ roots lead back to India and East Africa. I think my love for percussion and certain sounds come from the music they played whilst I was growing up - and you can hear subtle hints of this in certain songs. My dad also liked Bob Marley and The Beatles, so there was a lot of good music to appreciate.

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

Sell-out Wembley!

Bad joke…I would be happy to sell out a caravan! To establish myself further and keep writing and producing songs that are authentic and take people on a journey. I will have my second E.P. out towards the end of this year which I am excited about So, lots to look forward to.

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

There will be tour dates - and I can’t wait. I am still recording and have not established these yet. My social media and website will keep anyone who cares in the loop!

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

Yes. This one…releasing my E.P. Seriously; I have been writing songs since I was thirteen and have many fond memories relating to music, but recording this album has been the most rewarding and humbling experience.

I have had to take a look at myself in the mirror (with no make-up!) on more occasions than I wish to and have confronted difficult times in the process. I have laughed, cried; tripped over and knocked my head (for real) and everything in-between. I am proud of myself for getting this far: anything more is a bonus.

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

Are you kidding me; just three?! I could easily name thirty but I will do my best with three purely based on how I am feeling today. I am sure it would change tomorrow.

Tracy Chapman – Tracy Chapman; Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill and Joni Mitchell’s Blue. They all represent different times in my life and their work is just exquisite.

 

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

All three artists I mentioned above are alive!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I tell myself to make sure you can look in the mirror and say to yourself “I did everything” whatever the situation, whatever the outcome. That’s all we can do; to give it our everything.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Laurel/PHOTO CREDIT: Andrea Mae Perez

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Artists I have stated to follow include Laurel, Låpsley; AURORA, Novo Amor; Arctic Lake, Billie Eilish; Daughter, Charlie Cunningham…I could keep going.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Låpsley

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

I am on the run all the time - in a non-criminal way! I like yoga and surfing when I can find the time. Being with my girlfriends; taking a long bath being immersed in Himalayan salts. Ha! I love the English countryside and take every opportunity I get to escape the smoke. There is nothing like the smell of fresh manure to make you feel alive!

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).

Aww. Well thank you so much for playing my songs! I can only choose one song…ok. I will say Låpsley - Falling Short and Minimum by Charlie Cunningham. Dammit, that’s two!

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Follow Chantitown

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INTERVIEW: Rumours

INTERVIEW:

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Rumours

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IT has been pretty cool speaking with Rumours…

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about their sound and the new single, Tell Me What You’ve Done. I discover how the band got together and whether they are looking ahead in terms of more new material; whether there are tour dates coming up – also, which new artists we should get behind.

I ask them if they have any ambitions to achieve before the close of 2018; whether the members all share the same sort of musical tastes; if they get time to unwind away from music at all – they provide some great advice for artists coming through.

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

HEY! We’re very good, thanks! This week’s been pretty exciting, actually! Just played an awesome Sofar Sounds last night and now we’re getting ready to shoot our new music video in Dorset this weekend.

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

Sure. We are three friends, musicians; artists and food lovers based in London. This ‘adventure’, Rumours, started about three years ago. Our sound is still evolving and it’s a bit hard to pigeonhole – but, often, people refer to it as 'Electronic-Soulful-Pop'.

Even though us three still are at the very core of the project, the family has recently grown and we are now six musicians on stage during our live shows. We had the pleasure to play in many good venues and events in the past couple of years - so, it has been a great journey so far!

The single, Tell Me What You’ve Done, is new. Can you reveal what its story is? How did the song come together?

The song came about while we were all living together in North East London about a year ago. Mark had a piano by his bedroom window looking over the street and, since it was pretty hot at that time of the year, he would often look for ideas at night - that might help give the track a bit of a mysterious flair. Hahah. The meaning of the song is a mix of personal experiences and pure imagination, really.

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Did the fact the song received such praise when played live compel you to get it released as a single?

Absolutely. We almost thought of not releasing the track at all: we had it sitting there for quite a while and probably, as it often happens, our ears were getting a bit tired of it. But, as soon as we started playing it live, people were really feeling it and we had great feedback after our gigs. So, we thought that it would have been rather stupid not to release it. Haha

How did Rumours get started, as it were? When did you find one another?

Mark and Fede grew up together in a small city in Italy, then moved to London and met Marion at uni; did a couple of gigs together and decided to start a project that could embody our different personalities and musical influences.

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Are you looking ahead to more material - or do you take it a song at a time?

The further ahead you’re able to plan the better. We have a good amount of material waiting to be released at the moment. We keep on learning how to improve; being more organised and efficient as we go along. We definitely appreciate that having a clear idea of what’s gonna happen a few steps ahead is always better.

The band is composed of different nationalities and personalities. Do you all have, roughly, the same sort of musical tastes? Which artists did you all grow up with?

It’s quite fair to say that, just like our personalities, our musical tastes are quite different and various. Fede’s a massive fan of The Roots and he’s really into Electronic music and Hip-Hop; while Marion’s musical background leans a lot more toward Folk-y singer-songwriting and Ambient music.

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

We want to release a lot of music and do it and consistently in order to reach a wider audience. We also want to be proud of anything we do, no matter the outcome.

We want to expand our team as much as possible: it’s our understanding that being independent could be the right way to go at it nowadays, but to do so successfully you need to be able to surround yourself with a lot of passionate and reliable allies.

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

We surely have more than one. Probably going abroad to play has been some of the most fun and thrilling experiences. Playing to a sold-out Parkteatret in Olso and getting on the bill at Dimensions Festival in Croatia will always be precious memories to us.

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

Loads of premium gin?! Hahah. Marion would probably ask for a lot of healthy and hardly accessible food, though (smiles).

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Listen to other people’s advice, but also remember that music is a very subjective matter: when you really feel something is right, don’t be afraid to go for it.

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

We are currently planning our next headlining gig here in London. We’re thinking around October, so keep an eye on our socials (smiles).

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IN THIS PHOTO: Octavian

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We really like Octavian and he’s rising very quickly, so he’s surely one to keep an eye on. Also; DRAMA is a very interesting duo from the U.S.; then jadu heart, who also have both female and male lead vocals just like us!

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IN THIS PHOTO: jadu heart

As you are called ‘Rumours’; do you have a secret/rumour about another member of the band – or do you have a favourite rumour?

Hahah. Not sure we can reveal each other’s secret here - not if we’re to keep a peaceful relationship between each other. There’s a rumour going around that you would send a bucket of beer to the funniest interview...is that true?!

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

It depends on the time of the year. There are months where music is all we breathe, eat and dream of at night but, to be honest, this summer is quite good, distraction-wise.

Fede is developing his passion for sailing; Marion’s becoming a fitness machine and Mark’s loving the fact that he’s got a garden for the first time.

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).

Nice. Thank you! So; we’ll go for Constant Surprises by Little Dragon

Little by Octavian

The Big Unknown by Elder Island

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Follow Rumours

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INTERVIEW: Delta Will

INTERVIEW:

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Delta Will

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I have been speaking with Charles of Delta Will…

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about the band’s latest single, Nothing Is Enough. He talks about the upcoming E.P., Multitudes 1, and mixing a lot of different sounds together; how the band got together and started life; what Toronto is like as a base – I ask if there are any upcoming artists we need to look out for.

Charles talks about touring and reveals whether a U.K. trip is a possibility; how he spends his free time away from music; whether the band all share musical tastes – he ends the interview by selecting a rather good song.

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

Charles: Hot! It’s been seriously hot here in Toronto, though it seems to be letting up a little today.

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

Delta Will is a band that would cook breakfast for you and bring you flowers out of the blue. We call our music ‘Existential Pop’.

Nothing Is Enough is your new single. Can you tell me how the song came together and what inspired it?

I wrote Nothing Is Enough as part of a friends’ songwriting challenge in which a bunch of us had to post a new song to a group thread every week. Most of those songs never made it beyond that thread, but this one felt good immediately and I eventually took the demo to the band and we started working on the version of it you can hear today.

I wrote it in a fairly stream-of-consciousness manner so it’s pretty hard to say exactly what inspired it, though it does grapple with the notion of perpetual happiness and living in a world where little screens are constantly feeding our wants and desires.

It is from the Multitudes 1 E.P. It seems like you embraced a lot of sounds and new directions on the E.P. Would you say that is true?

Embracing many different sounds isn’t really new to us. It’s sort of been the Delta Will M.O. from the start. I did find myself listening to a lot of Neo-Soul and modern R&B while I was writing these songs but also a bunch of minimalism and film music. It’s hard for me to parse out exactly what influenced what but, in short; yes, we’re always embracing new music.

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How did Delta Will get together? When did you meet one another?

I started Delta Will as a solo bedroom project in 2011. Once I started recording the second E.P., It All Glows, it occurred to me how much I missed the energy and comradery of making music with bandmates and asked some musically-inclined friends to join me. I had met Milan through a video series he directed of bands playing on Toronto streetcars and I met Brandon from playing in mutual friends’ bands. Our drummer, Kevin, is the latest addition and we enlisted him after everyone kept telling us how great he is.

They were right.

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Do you all have similar musical tastes? What sort of stuff are you all into?

Everyone’s taste is pretty eclectic. If I were to overgeneralize, I’d say I’m the lone Folk music freak and everyone else is more into Dance music. Everyone can agree that Khruangbin is pretty great (see below).

Toronto is where you are all based. How important is the city? Is it an inspiring place to make music in?

Toronto is absolutely littered with talented musicians. It’s certainly inspiring in the sense that great music is happening all around you at all times. It’s also a booming city where rent is becoming astronomically expensive and artists are slowly but surely being pushed out. Pros and cons.

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Do you think there will be touring dates? Can we catch you on tour?

Absolutely. We’ll be touring in Canada this fall and those dates will be announced very soon.

Might you come to the U.K. and perform at some point?

Yes! We’re hoping to cross the pond next year.

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

I’m going to preface this by saying that ‘any musician alive today’ makes it very difficult. I’m terrible at picking favourites. That being said, I’m going to go with Wilco because I’ve met them and they’re really nice guys - and I’ve loved their music for so long.

Our rider would consist of freshly-baked chocolate chip cookies. Just cookies.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Kira May/PHOTO CREDIT: Adnan Khan

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Kira May, Saxsyndrum; Drago Dit Dragon and Sara-Danielle. Two of those might be our label-mates.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Saxsyndrum/PHOTO CREDIT: Tess Roby

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

I never underestimate the importance of chilling. Lately, I’ve been reading Infinite Jest under a tree in the park and going for bike rides.

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).

Friday Morning by Khruangbin, please!

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Follow Delta Will

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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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Follow VC Pines

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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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Follow Lauren Housley

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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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