INTERVIEW: Kramies

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Ellie Nonemacher  

Kramies

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THE splendid Kramies has been letting me into his world…

and talking about the new single, The Hill Dweller. I learn how the song came together and what it was like working with producer Jerry Becker; what themes go into the E.P., Of All the Places Been & Everything the End (out on 19th October); which albums and artist are most important to him - I ask how he got into music.

Kramies discusses his upcoming plans and how he relaxes away from music; which artist he’d support if he has the chance; whether there are any tour dates booked in the diary – the songwriter ends the interview with a great song choice.

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

I’m in a happier place these days. Its Sunday here in Colorado and I’m planning a few trips for the end of the year. Especially excited for one adventure where I’ll be holed up in a little cabin, tucked in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina to start writing again.  

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

This has always been the hardest question for me. I always try to answer it with humor, but I’m sitting here with someone struggling to find the perfect answer and we’re laughing so hard at the weird things I say…

The simplest introduction is I’m an artist living in the mountains of Colorado and, for some reason, I seem to create dreamy, dark - yet optimistic – fairytales-laden music. Also, I laugh…a lot…and loud. So, we are creating quite a scene here. I’d say people mostly recognize me by my witch cackle - that can echo throughout an entire building I'm told.

The Hill Dweller is your new single. Is there a story behind the song? What was it like working with Jerry Becker on the song?

I only seem to write when a story starts to develop in my mind and they always seem to develop really fast. This particular story came to me while walking through the landscapes of Ireland. It’s a small piece to an entire tale. The whole E.P. is actually a story that came to me while residing that castle. The Hill Dweller was originally supposed to be the end of another song but it actually became the ending of the entire E.P.

I wrote it in the farmhouse of Shankill Castle in Ireland where I recorded the acoustic and vocals of the song. I then sent the project over to Jerry Becker. And, roughly 1 year later, Jerry sent back The Hill Dweller. He completely arranged it beautifully with deep layers and I fell in love with it. He’s a huge part of that simple song and I was pretty lucky to get to work with him - and it’s extra-special to work with a long-time friend.

Of All the Places Been & Everything the End is your new E.P. Is it true it was written in an Irish castle?! Did you find it a particularly inspiring place to be?

Absolutely. Ireland has always been a close place to my heart - the history, culture; landscape and architecture. I don’t even know where it comes from but when you’re given that setting to create, there are two things that happen. It either transports you to a different time frame, which helps you create, or it completely enamours your mental vision so you create something that is all your own. I have to say it was one of the hardest times to write because it was a struggle to push myself a little further. Further than what I have been doing. And, in the end, that experience has become the biggest part of the story.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ellie Nonemacher  

Is there a song/collaboration from the set that stands in the mind?

Yes. There are two, actually first: Everything the End. I originally wrote that song as a terrible Christmas song… I've always wanted to write an eerie Christmas time song...but that’s a story for another time. After I put it aside for some time, I finally sat back down with it and changed a few things. I just started piecing it together again, rearranging it and then sent it to Jason Lytle. When he returned it, I realized that this collaboration marked the first moment that the E.P. started to take shape. It all finally started to come together.

The second was The Hill Dweller. Hearing the ending of the E.P. really helped create a place to work backwards from and Jerry produced such an amazing ending.

When did you get into music? Which artists influenced you growing up?

As a kid, I grew up very shy. I always found myself putting on my dad’s headphones and listening to old Christmas and a Halloween records, to the point where my dad had to take the records away from me and tell me to go play outside. Those records had a huge impact on me. Then, I got to the age of where whatever was put in front of me that’s what I wanted to do or wanted to become. One Christmas, all I really wanted was a keyboard...but my parents decided to buy me a guitar instead. So, I would make up my own tunings and pretend it was a keyboard.

I think my self-isolation and youthful nervousness projected me into music further and I taught myself how to play the guitar. I never tried to learn others’ songs and I never really fit into playing in a band. It was a combination of this and old holiday music that, I believe, shaped my sound. As I got older though, I fell in love with David Bowie’s album, Hunky Dory, Simon & Garfunkel and Led Zeppelin III. These all helped as well to mold my strange de-tuned songwriting style.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jérôme Sevrette

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

That’s a hard question to think about. Well; I would hope to find more comfort in the writing process and I hope to live enough experiences for another story to come to me...since I never know when it’s going to hit.

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

Unfortunately, most of my time in the early-’90s was fueled by drug addiction. It wasn’t until I got sober in 2004 that my music and life started to shape a beautiful chemistry. Since then, I have a lot of great memories - especially opening for really cool bands like Yo La Tengo, Granddaddy and Spiritualized. Playing some really unique sold out shows in Europe is always very memorable. But, just the fact that I still get to do this and create new E.P.s makes me so thankful.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jérôme Sevrette

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

Well, first: I have the tendency to listen to songs over and over, not a particular album. But, as far as the albums go…

The second side of Led Zeppelin II - Led Zeppelin

It is perfect by being imperfect. It has this depth of heaviness and intention that I find beautiful.

Hunky Dory by David Bowie

I cherish it because that’s how I taught myself to sing. The melody and emotion behind the vocals entranced me as a young kid. Being able to hear studio noise (the phone ringing in the background) is something that stuck with me my entire life.

Nothing Shocking by Jane’s Addiction

This is the first time I experienced heaviness on an album without it being considered straight-forward Rock ’n’ Roll.

And, one more, because today I’m enamoured with Joanna Newsom’s songs -’81 and Divers - because she is one of the most talented songwriters and has the most beautiful voice. I have listened to the song ‘81 a thousand times and still get choked-up.

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

As for a musician, without a question, it’d be Joanna Newsom. And, for rider: having a place to pass-out from nerves would be ideal too.

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

In the spring of 2019, I will happily be roaming through the Netherlands and France (and a few more other days are being booked and released soon too).

PHOTO CREDIT: Ellie Nonemacher

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

As cliché as it sounds, don’t follow a trend or be try to be anyone else. There are million artists out there and everyone has a purpose. But, there is only one you. Be genuinely you and create from your personal emotions, heart and vision. That's where strength is - the rest will fall into place

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

It’s funny, because most of my inspiration comes from architecture and landscape so I never really listen or search out the new. New work typically falls in my lap, or I hear it in a movie; or maybe even heard it in passing.

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

This last E.P. was the hardest to unwind from. It’s just now, after a year-and-a-half, all starting to subside. I’m not sure why I’ve struggled the most with this one or what the result will be but the most I can do is spend time in nature and try to get away from the thought process that comes from creating.

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).

Divers by Joanna Newsom (or ’81). I’m slightly obsessed!

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Follow Kramies

PHOTO CREDIT: Jérôme Sevrette  

Official:

https://kramies.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/kramies/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/kramies

Bandcamp:

https://kramies.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Basement Revolver

INTERVIEW:

Basement Revolver

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IT is an exciting time for Basement Revolver…

what with an album out and tour dates coming. Chrisy from the Canadian band discusses Heavy Eyes and what sort of themes influence the album; how the band got together and what sort of artists/tones inspire her.

The band each select a song to end the interview with whilst Chrisy highlights upcoming artists to watch; how it feels getting big love from the press; the one album that means the most to her – she provides some useful advice for artists coming through.

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

We are good! The week has been a little bit hectic - getting ready for Supercrawl and our upcoming dates but that is a good kind of hectic!

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

Hi! I’m Chrisy. I sing and play guitar in Basement Revolver alongside my pals Brandon on Drums and Nimal on Bass.

How did Basement Revolver form? When did you all meet?

I met Nimal when I was about eight-years-old when his family moved to Canada. Brandon and Nimal met at college - and then I met Brandon through music things! Basement Revolver started when I decided to experiment with guitar pedals and effects instead of making Folk music and Nim helped out for a battle of the bands. After that, Brandon joined and we’ve been going hard ever since.

Heavy Eyes is your debut album. Are there particular themes that have gone into the record?

I guess the general theme is tiredness? I don’t know that I have a word for it, but that feeling that you have after a long year; the calm after the storm.

The press and fans have really reacted to your music. How humbling is it to know they love what you do?!

It is very weird and kinda cool? I don’t think that we ever expected B.R. do go as well as it has and I am so, so thankful that it has. I really wouldn’t want to do anything else!

Do you remember the artists you followed growing up? Who do you rank as idols?

Aaron Weiss from mewithoutYou. One day I *dream* of playing a show with them. They were a very foundational band for me.

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

Hopefully, just to keep some momentum going into the New Year and to keep writing songs!

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

Brandon sleeping in the car. He always falls asleep. It’s a classic move.

Which one album means the most to you would you say (and why)? 

I think that Pale Horses by mewithoutYou is the best album I’ve ever heard. It is just all around the perfect record for me.

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

Here is my list of top people I dream of supporting one day: mewithoutYou, Japanese Breakfast and Jay Som. I think those are all the bands I would undoubtedly fan-girl over.

We have watermelon candies on our rider! That’s what’s important (smiles).

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

We are supporting Amber Arcades for a bunch of dates in October.

Will you come to the U.K. and play? Do you like British music?

How could you not like British music?! Ahah! We are supporting Amber Arcades around the U.K. in October.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just keep going! It can be a bit of a rollercoaster: don’t let the quiet times get you down. There is always gonna be quiet times - it doesn’t mean that you’re a failure!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Ellevator

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My fave coming out of Ontario right now: Ellevator, Ellis and Tallies

IN THIS PHOTO: Ellis/PHOTO CREDIT: Ariel Bader-Shamai 

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

Not really. Haha. I have three jobs to support my music endeavours. Hopefully, someday soon, I can pull back on some of that but you gotta do what you gotta do.

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

I’m gonna choose The Drain by Ellis - and I’m gonna choose for the boys too!

Nim is gonna choose Walkaway by Weaves  

Brandon is gonna choose Blue Boy by Mac DeMarco

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Follow Basement Revolver

Official:

https://www.basementrevolver.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/basementrevolver/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/BASEREVOLVmusic

Bandcamp:

https://basementrevolver.bandcamp.com/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2xaBaFw60ET6GJVxFLOc4s

INTERVIEW: Dancing on Tables

INTERVIEW:

Dancing on Tables

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WITH Colour Me Good out in the world…

I have been chatting with Dancing on Tables about the song and what comes next for them; what the story is behind that band name; how the Scottish crew came together – they tell me about their touring plans and where we can catch them.

Dancing on Tables reveal a favoured memory from music and whether increased live exposure have made them stronger performances; if there are rising artists we should check out – they end the interview by choosing a great song.

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

Hey! We are good, thanks. It’s been busy getting ready to release Colour Me Good on Friday. We did get to go to the AIM awards on Tuesday which was a fun one.

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

We are a five-piece from near Edinburgh (…nobody knows where Dunfermline is). Each of us have quite varied musical influences that we draw on when writing, but we are best described as Indie-Pop - somewhere between Circa Waves and Metronomy I would say.

Colour Me Good is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

It was a really fun song to write and a favourite one to play in the set. It’s a perfect song to encapsulate the feeling of summer. Our Space Race E.P. focused on the idea of missing someone, so we feel that Colour Me Good shows a much lighter and happier side of us that we haven’t put across yet.    

Do you think there will be more material coming next year? What are you working on?

We have lots of material recorded that we will be releasing over the coming months. E.P.-three will be released at some point in 2019 - then we will decide where to go from there.

How did Dancing on Tables get together? Is there a story behind that name?

We were friends at school and started a band as we found it we could use it as an excuse to get out of some classes and are still here five years later. We actually played our first show without having decided on a name. We saw people dancing on tables during the night and decided that it was a better name than any we had thought of before.

When did music arrive in your lives? Which artists are you inspired by?

We have all loved music from early on. Growing up in Scotland means that you are surrounded by the history and stories of acts that have gone on to play around the world. From a young age, I would be given old Orange Juice and Primal Scream albums, so I have them to thank for getting me into music. As we have two main singers, the songwriting of similar bands such as The Libertines or The Beatles (obviously) have been a big influence to us.

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

I think the main thing is that people like the music we release and enjoy the shows that we play in the next few months. I try not to focus too far in the future - so will just see what happens.

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

When we played smaller venues, we would do a thing at the end of the set where we invited people onto the stage to dance with us for the last song. The first time we sold out a venue in Dunfermline we did it and the stage was too packed to move…but it meant that I played the last song whilst watching my best friend attempt to dance for three minutes while right beside me. A strange one but memorable.

Which one album means the most to you would you say (and why)?

I remember the first time listening to Babyshambles’ Down in Albion album after being given it by a friend aged ten and being absolutely amazed by what I was listening to. It was the first time I got the urge to start discovering music for myself and gave me a taste of what else was out there to find. Who knows what I would be listening to now without it.

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

I would support The Killers and (because I wasn’t allowed to say this in my last interview). I would have lots of hummus and some Red Stripe. It’s a winning combination. I saw The Killers at TRNSMT this year and their live show is up there with the best I’ve ever seen. Also, Brandon Flowers just seems like a very interesting guy to talk to.

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

We are doing our own headline dates in England, as well as touring with Cassia over the next few months. You can catch us here:

13th October: Leicester - The Cookie (supporting Cassia)

14th October: Bristol - Hy-Brasil Music Club

15th October: Birmingham - Subside

16th October: Manchester - The Castle Hotel

24th October: Aberdeen - Drummonds (supporting Cassia)

25th October: Glasgow - King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut (supporting Cassia)

26th October: Newcastle upon Tyne - The Cluny (supporting Cassia).

You have played some great gigs and festivals. Has this exposure and experience made you stronger live performers?

I think the more often you play the more you want to see new places and play new, bigger venues. I think we have quite a strong live performance because we enjoy it so much and that comes across. It really is a hobby that we are lucky enough to do as a job.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The best advice I ever received was don’t be a dick. You will get nowhere in music if nobody likes you, so be a genuinely nice person to everyone you meet because you never know who they might be. Also…have fun.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Cassia

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Cassia are one of the most exciting acts around just now and we are really excited to tour with them. In Scotland, Retro Video Club and Declan Welsh & the Decadent West are two bands that seem on the verge of something big. The new album by Bad Sounds is one of my favourite of this year.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Declan Welsh & the Decadent West

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

It’s quite full-on all-year-round. As soon as one song is out, there is always more material to write or practice or people to meet etc. Most of the time, if I have a free night, I’ll spend it playing FIFA. What a wild life.

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

Thank you very much. I will pick my favourite song just now: You Don’t Walk Away from Love by Peace

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Follow Death Machine

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dancingontablesmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/dancingontables

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dancingontables/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0onRfrkoTz3yrMeP2Ymhhc

BAND PHOTOS:

Lucy Foster

INTERVIEW: Death Machine

INTERVIEW:

Death Machine

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I have been spending time with Death Machine…

as they talk with me about their new track, Isle of Mine. I ask what the story behind the song is and what we will get from their upcoming album. The band discusses their musical tastes and how Death Machine found one another.

The Danish band recommend rising artists to watch and reveal what their touring plans are; if there is any time to chill away from music; what advice they would give to artists coming through right now – they end the interview by selecting a song I have not heard before.

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

Jesper: Besides being a musician, I also work as a graphic designer and the last week has been really busy. Too much work! (And surrounded by people who don’t recognise all my efforts). Quite a crappy week, actually. But, I’ve also, with great excitement. Been looking forward to releasing our new single.

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

Morten​: Hi. We are a lo-fi Folk band called Death Machine. The band consists of Jesper Mogensen on Vocal and Guitar, Simon Christensen on Keys; Sven Andersen on Drums and Morten Ørberg on Bass. Death Machine's musical expression is based on American lo-fi Folk and likes to mix traditional songwriting with more abstract chanting elements. We play music that mixes spherical and earthy elements.

Isle of Mine​ is your new single. What is the story behind it?

Jesper: When I write songs, I start out playing around on the guitar while singing complete nonsense. In this case, I kept singing the words "isle of mine". When I began writing the lyrics for the song, my first intention was to delete that phrase but, as the words got down, it suddenly made sense. My subconscious is always one step ahead I guess.

I write about stuff from my own life and Isle of Mine is about finding a way back to yourself at the end of a relationship. A sort of defence mechanism where you try to detach yourself from your partner. I believe a relationship is dead a many years before the actual breakup. In this state, we tend to live in mentally solitude. Living on separate islands.

It is from your upcoming third record. Can you tell us what sort of themes and ideas influenced the material?

Yes. Isle of Mine is from our forthcoming album. We are still in middle of recording it and are still experimenting a lot, but I guess we tend to seek a more tribal kind of feeling on this album. More heavy beats than on our previous two albums.

How did Death Machine get together? When did you start playing together?

Morten​: In 2013, Sven and I played in another band. Jesper had been to a couple of our concerts, but we never really spoke a lot after these concerts. But, when Jesper suddenly did not have musicians for a band for a Death Machine showcase, he contacted us. We only played one concert and then went to each side.

Several months later, we met randomly at a bar where we decided that Death Machine should be a trio and immediately started writing songs together. The first song that came out of it was the song Loans. Not long after we got Simon on the keys because we had difficulty creating the spherical sound on the stage. Simon was the perfect match; the starting point for our collaboration is and always has been that the music is central and not the single band member's ego.

You are based out of Denmark. Is there a healthy and promising music scene there?

Jesper: In my experience, the Danish music scene has never been better. There are so many talented people and new bands all sounding like professionals. I think it has to do with the new technological opportunities. You can record an album in your bedroom and it sounds great. You don't need expensive studio time anymore.

Do you each remember the artists you followed growing up? Who do you rank as idols?

The most important artist is difficult to say. You keep evolving as a person and your taste in music changes. But, the first musician who inspired me was Michael Jackson. I wanted to learn to dance like him. Then, later, I started listening to techno. But, the Grunge wave made me want to play music. The Danish band Psyched Up Janis got me into playing drums. I don't listen to any of them anymore though. Recently, I've been listening a lot to Bonnie Prince Billy. Kind of my idol at the moment.

Simon:​ I still remember the kind of breakfast I had when I heard on the radio that Freddie Mercury had died. Queen were my childhood idols. Live at Wembley was a very worn V.H.S. Since then, Mogwai, Sonic Youth; Radiohead, Grandaddy and Arab Strap…my idols are still Thom Yorke, Thurston Moore and Freddie Mercury. The best concert in a while was Florence + the Machine at Roskilde.

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

Jesper: By the end of 2018, I hope the new album is ready to be released. That is my focus at the moment.

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

My favourite memory has to be our concert at SPOT Music Festival. The venue was perfect for our music and, before the concert, we were very nervous as to whether anyone would come to see our show – but, luckily a lot did and we got really nice feedback. A lot of good stuff has happened since then.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Morten​: It's hard to answer. I have many favourite albums, but I especially like Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon, Fleetwood Mac's Rumours and The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds - because these three masterpieces cause both memories and big feelings and I never get tired of hearing them.

Simon​: It’s difficult to say, but maybe Sufjan Stevens’ Illinois album. That album got me into the Folk genre. I kind of found my place as a musician: what I wanted to do and could do. But, there are many good albums out there. All of them inspiring.

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

Don't know about the rider, but I could be cool to support Bonnie Prince Billy or Radiohead. Hopefully, chat a bit with them too.

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

Jesper: Unfortunately, we don't have any U.K. dates but we have a lot dates around Germany, Austria; Switzerland and Denmark this autumn. Just check our Facebook.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don't have that much advice because we still in the middle of coming through. But, I guess a general piece of advice would be to remember to be true to yourself and the music you make.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Palace Winter/PHOTO CREDIT: @PalaceWinterDK

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There is a new band called Palace Winter. They write really good songs! Also, Marie-Louise Munck. She is, in my opinion, one of the best singers in Denmark.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Marie-Louise Munck

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

Jesper: Don't have that much spare time - but I like Netflix.

Simon: Not much time, but watching the Premier League; playing with my girls and drinking coffee are some of the ways I relax.

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

Jesper: Chad VanGaalen - City of Electric Light

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Follow Death Machine

Official:

http://celebrationrecords.dk/work/death-machine/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Deathmachinecph/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/deathmachine_cph/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU0NrEvOSpgA78X1QTbX9_g

INTERVIEW: Terry Emm

INTERVIEW:

Terry Emm

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THE excellent Terry Emm has been talking with me…

 IMAGE CREDIT: Alban Low

about his latest single, The Leaving, and looking ahead to his E.P., Ornate (out on 21st September). I ask whether there are themes and stories that inspired those works and, after a six-year gap, he is coming back into the music – he reveals his favourite artists and some albums that are especially important.

Emm talks about a favourite musical memory and tells me a rising artist we should check out; if touring is a future possibility; the advice emerging artists should absorb and consider – he ends the interview by selecting a ‘90s classic.

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

Hi, Sam. Busy but I’m starting to thrive off of it.

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

I’m a singer-songwriter, originally from Bedfordshire but I recently relocated to Hertfordshire to get into a denser countryside. I now live opposite the former residence of English nobleman, writer and Quaker legend William Penn. My first album, White Butterflies, came out in 2009 and I’ve steadily followed it up with regular releases when I’m feeling the music. Styles on my albums have varied from Acoustic to Indie-Pop to Rock and Electronic - wherever the wind takes me.

What can you tell me about the track, The Leaving, and its story?

The Leaving was originally titled Love Is a Fear and was always one of my favourite songs to sit and play by myself for years but, for some mad reason, I never recorded or released it. It’s about the fear of getting into new relationships, change and the fleeting yet beautiful interactions we have in life.

It is from your E.P., Ornate. What sort of themes and stories define the E.P. would you say?

The E.P. feels like a brand-new chapter to me but is quite rooted in the past and nostalgia with most of the songs being around for quite a while. Now, I feel like they have the production style that I always wanted for them. I was aiming for understated beauty; the kind of thing you’d want to listen to on headphones by yourself or could disappear into on a long night-time countryside drive. I’ve tried to keep things simple yet underpin certain moments and move into different styles where a sort of timelessness can hopefully be created.

This is your first work in six years. Is there a reason for the hiatus?

I actually quit music after a long stint of gigs that took a lot of energy and soul out of music for me. The industry changes so rapidly and I feel like I’ve never been fully able to capitalise on good achievements I’ve attained through it. I like to think of it as casting pearls before swine but it may be that being a musician is just as tough as everyone says. I realised I had never had a long period of not pursuing music goals and it was really good to switch it off for an extended period of time and see what else life had to offer.

That may always be my problem with trying to do music as a living. It’s so much heartache being an artist and also having goals to achieve something with it. You do some tracks and play some gigs and people say it’s good so you think ‘how far can this go?’ and then the goal posts move back and the industry evades you.

So, I forgot about music for a long while and figured it’d come back to me when it needs to; did some travelling without the guitar for once; visited a lot of temples and magical places in South America, which was amazing, and wrote a book on past life regressions - that type of thing. All of that turned out to be equally important in my life than my previous music dreams. Eventually, when moving house, I did the cliché thing of trying to ‘get back to my roots’ by unearthing and looking through old demo tapes, minidiscs and C.D.s I’d recorded when I was younger. I liked the purity and innocence of them and how I’d just record things ‘for me’. Songs like Sun and Moon and The Leaving from the E.P. were then re-ignited. It was then an invitation by my friend Jonathan McMillan to record at his studio, The Smokehouse in London, that prompted making the E.P.

Listening to your work; I get the sense you are more attached with old-school recording and an analogue sound. Do you think you are more enamoured with the music and recording processes of the past?!

On this E.P., I loved having a lot more space in the studio. The Smokehouse Studios, where it was recorded, made things feel like I was recording a live set. They have a wicked analogue desk that everything went through and I respect and love that kind of thing. But, also, digital is so flexible and easy that it made things easy to create original atmospheres on the tracks and edit out me constantly saying ‘are we rolling?’ at the beginning of tracks quickly. The E.P. is a combination of both: looking backwards and forwards.

In terms of musicians; what sort of stuff are you into? Who were you raised on?

I was raised on Oasis, The Kinks; The Beatles, ‘80s Pop and Northern Soul but quickly developed my own tastes and moved into all kinds of territories. Red House Painters are a big influence on me and other acts of that ilk but recently I’ve been listening to D Double E, Bleachers; Grand Drive, Harry Shotta; Barenaked Ladies and I loved the comeback album from Busted for some strange reason! I also have a list of music from films I’ve watched recently that I must get into more…

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

To tell you the truth, I’m a bit wired for a T.V. or film music sync right now. I’ve always loved when I discover new music through T.V. or films and feel like I’ve got a lot of material that could suit that type of thing in many ways; so more writing and working on that side of things could be good. Of course, if any musicians reading this like my stuff and fancy taking me on as tour support, I may be persuaded to emerge from my current meditative river-side-hidey-hole to do it too.

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

Wow; hard to pick! Maybe driving around in my friend and fellow musician Craig Currie’s (of The Nimblewits) car on the way to open mics with the windows fully open and turning up Nick Cave’s The Mercy Seat to full volume or re-recording all the jingles at the studio on his radio show. There’re so many funny moments from my first two albums recorded with Richard Durrant.

His kids rolling me up in their front room carpet; being a ‘silhouette oarsman’ at his old Ropetackle ‘Airport Club’ and going to the Adur Beer Festival during recording sessions. Also; gigs I did in Germany were fun in a glass, cube cafe in Mainz - which turned into a late-night smoking session - and a house concert where most of the audience had dyed blue hair.

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

Johnny Coppin - Songs of Gloucestershire

It’s the most beautiful album you’ll ever hear and reminds me of my time at uni in Gloucestershire and of Folk clubs. Also, there’s a song on there, Piper’s Wood, which I can’t listen to without welling up.

F.S. Blumm - Summer Kling

Every year, when summer kicks in, I have to dig out this quirky experimental gem. It’s rich in odd, improvised music which comes together into stunningly pretty pastel arrangements.

Brent J Dickey - Overblind (E.P.)

I’ve no idea if it’s available anywhere still but I love this wacky, sparkling Indie-Pop E.P. and listened to it solidly for a whole two weeks whilst driving around America for the first time, taking in the culture.

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

Would love to open up for Billy Bragg. I think it’d be a raw show and my mother’s maiden name is also ‘Bragg’, so maybe he owes me one by default.

Rider-wise: Jaffa Cakes and rum are a rider for real singer-songwriters (to slightly quote Kano)…hold tight James Chadwick; that’s a real O.G.

Can we see you tour soon? Where are you playing?

I have no plans to get back touring as of yet - unless someone comes up with an awesome tour schedule for me.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself and make sure the music is as good as it can be before you put it out. Don’t get hung up on milestones like touring, press; radio etc - just keep going with as much creativity as possible. Get friends and other artists involved as much as possible. If it works out, great - if not; just be proud of the music you’ve made and the fun times.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Josh Wheatley

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Josh Wheatley from Nottingham is a fine young singer-songwriter, writing far better songs than I could ever dream of coming up with…

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

I’ve been watching a lot of good films recommended by my girlfriend recently and love escaping on country walks, plus getting into historical and philosophical interests. I recently went to Italy to check out the birthplace of Giordano Bruno.

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).

Mark Morrison – Return of the Mack

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Follow Terry Emm

Official:

http://www.terryemm.co.uk/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/terryemmmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/terryemmmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/terryemm

INTERVIEW: Carys Calling

INTERVIEW:

Carys Calling

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I have been settling with Carys Calling…

as she tells me about the new single, Honest. The songwriter talks about the track’s story and which artists inspired her to get into music; relocating and moving to a new city; which three albums are especially dear to her – I was keen to know whether there are gigs coming up.

Carys Calling discusses the importance of being on stage and connecting with people; what upcoming artists should remember; whether she gets time to chill and unwind; which rising talent we need to get behind – I discover which recent musical moment is most ‘memorable’ to the songwriter.

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

Hey, Sam. I’m great, thank you! Are you well? I’m in the middle of moving from Bath to Bristol which is keeping me busy, alongside promoting the new single and working on a university deadline before heading back to Newcastle for a few days. Can’t complain!

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

Of course. I’m a Dark-Alternative-Pop artist, originally from Newcastle; singing/writing haunting raw songs. I always write lyrics first: I don’t play an instrument (YET), so the bare bones of every song starts with the words. I’m also obsessed with visuals to music, so I’m equally as involved with the artwork/videos.

I think a song can be transcended in different ways when you hear it and when you see the video/visuals. I had an accidental break from releasing/performing music when I moved to Bath, so expect more releases, videos and live gigs from the end of September!

Tell me about your new single, Honest, and how it came together. When did it start life?

Honest began one rainy November afternoon a few years ago when I still lived in Newcastle. I was living alone and in a new relationship that was quickly fading. The late-night talks blurred into silence, while the noise between the sheets continued. I was feeling emptiness and fireworks at the same time, clinging onto that feeling.

The sparks burned out and careless words were pouring out. I never released it but always hoped to. The production on it by my producer Tom Cory has just brought it to life in ways I couldn’t have imagined. I’m so proud of what it has become.

How did ‘Carys Calling’ start life? When did you get into music?

I’ve been singing since I was young and constantly wrote lyrics from eight-years-old, that were more like poems, throughout school. I wrote my first vocal melody when I was twenty-one; then Carys Calling took shape in 2015 when I released Soaked My Skin. I grew up listening to ABBA. My mum would play it when we baked together and my brothers would blast Eminem. Quite a mixture!

We didn’t have a T.V. until I was twelve but we had videos so I would watch Friends. I remember the scene where Rachel is looking out the window when it’s pouring with raining and she’s upset with Ross; With or Without You by U2 is playing. I got the biggest lump in my throat and remember what an impact it had on me. I have always had such a crush on music with visuals.

You are from Newcastle but moved to Bath. How important was that move to your career?

I had been itching to move from Newcastle for a year before I moved but I needed to finish my degree. I LOVE Newcastle but I’m always craving new people and new places. I love the challenge of starting afresh; not knowing anyone and shaping a life somewhere new. Every place I have lived has inspired writing, brought me close to new best friends and helped me grow through tough times.

The main reason for moving to Bath was to study my Masters. I feel like I’ve really found my true sound and image here. I don’t know if that would have happened if I stayed in Newcastle. If I feel too comfortable, I know I need a change. I feel very settled and happiest down South. I always think moving somewhere new and meeting new friends can never be a mistake and Newcastle will always be in my bones. As they say: you’ve gotta live life to write about it.

Which artists did you grow up around? Were you hooked on music from a young age?

I grew up around ABBA, The Bangles; Elton John, Eminem; Norah Jones and Dido. A mixture of what my mum and brothers listened to. I grew up in the Northumberland. I used to actually find the silence calming and writing poems was my escape. I became hooked on music when I saw Fame in the theatre and Grease on video. I joined dancing and acting clubs - all centred around music - and I loved it. In my teens, I started watching shows like One Tree Hill, Friends and Grey’s Anatomy. It got me through some chaos.

I’ll always remember the episode of Hollyoaks I saw at a friend’s house: when Hannah was in hospital with anorexia and My Skin by Natalie Merchant was played; the visuals and script with music sent shivers right through me. That’s when I knew I wanted to give people that feeling through the music I would maybe one day write.

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

By the end of 2018, I hope to be settled in Bristol - having performed a handful of shows with a full band - and to have released my next song, Friday Night Out, with a video too. Really excited to be releasing more music and playing more live shows.

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

This may sound random, but I played a gig a few weeks ago at the St James Wine Vaults in Bath. I played a song I haven’t performed in years and I forgot the lyrics; I just completely blanked. I brushed it off on stage and blamed the Strongbow I’d had two sips of. Haha....

Afterwards, I was so hard on myself and was so frustrated that I slipped up. It turned out to be the song that the audience liked the most, so it’s made me consider releasing it properly.  We’re all just human in the end.

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

Norah Jones - Come Away with Me

I listened to this album for two-weeks-straight when I was doing work experience during high-school at a beauty salon. I was practicing nail art in the back and singing my heart out. That’s one of the moments I realised I wanted to be a singer and to write songs. I used Don’t Know Why for auditions into college and university. Something feels like home when I play this album. Beautifully familiar. She’s an effortless talent. She made me want to sing.

Phoebe Bridgers - Stranger in the Alps

I found Phoebe a few years back. The somewhat morbid darkness and honesty in her lyrics knocked me for six. I remember when I first heard Smoke Signals, Funeral and Motion Sickness. I was just absolutely frozen in awe. Her voice and stories are so pur:, I feel like she’s not censoring anything which is so fuc*ing refreshing. Almost like she’s just saying what we’re all afraid to say/admit? I’ve seen her live and every time I hear her songs it feels like the first time. I also cried out a brea-up while listening to this album. She’s a rare gem of an artist.

The 1975 - The 1975 (Deluxe)

I have been besotted with these lads since I saw them in Newcastle in the S.U. bar a few weeks after they released Chocolate. His lyrics move me so much. They’re brutal, heartbreaking; hilarious, awkward; clever and the truth. It’s not the obvious Pop I was used to. Obviously, there are some killer hooks, some absolute bangers; some slow heart-wrenchers and some depressing-as-hell ones…but you can NEVER guess what they are going to do. They are unpredictable; his writing and their songs are refreshingly surprising.

There isn’t always a huge chorus and I like that. They don’t always do what people expect. I feel like some songs can be better when they are simple and undone. They aren’t trying hard to impress, they are just being authentic. I could go on and on but when I first heard Robbers, Girls; Pressure, Is Somebody Watching You; Menswear, Sex and Falling for You; I just felt like I connected and related to the lyrics more than I ever had before with other artists. I listen to at least one song of theirs every day. They make me want to be better.

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

Phoebe Bridgers, without a doubt. Gluten-free donuts, Yorkshire Tea and Hobnobs. Oh, and tangerines! Gotta have vitamin C!

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

Definitely. I will be playing in Bristol, Bath; London and hopefully Newcastle too. Aiming to have some dates in the book for this winter. I’ll be updating my website/socials as soon as they’re sorted!

How important is it being on stage and seeing your music connecting with people?

It’s as important as the writing. If I’m not able to perform it, I don’t know what I’d do with myself. I’ve always felt a comfort on stage, unlike anywhere else. There’s something so special about singing songs I once penned at 3 A.M. in bed while having a brew, to an audience that choose to come and watch me play and hear what I have to say.

If I ease someone’s troubles or make their day or make them feel like they aren’t alone through my lyrics and songs then I’m doing something right. There’s no feeling like when people come and talk to me after I play and tell me how they felt or which song moved them. I am happy to be vulnerable and spilling out all my stories and I feel so lucky to be able to do this.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Take it one step at a time and try your damned hardest not to compare yourself to another artist negatively. You could be comparing your step-three to their step-twelve. We all have our own pace and path. Believe in your art and try to tell the truth: people can see through the fake stuff in seconds. And it feels better if you’re honest.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sasha Sloan is my new favourite writer. You will not be disappointed. She’s not really new but she’s new to me and possibly to some others.

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

I try to make sure I do but I always end up getting distracted with music or writing in the end. My ultimate way to unwind is to go back to Newcastle and see my friends and family, get back to the countryside; have a few pints with my old school friends and reconnect. I find that music can sometimes make you disconnect; whether that’s forgetting to reply to texts, shutting off so I can write something; being busy gigging, rehearsing; working and at uni or feeling a little like I just wanna be on my own for a bit.

I have phases of it all but that’s my me-time: shutting off and putting my phone on airplane mode. That and a brew with a couple of biscuits. I think, nowadays, we all find it hard to unwind. We’re all so accessible and busy. I also ADORE going to live local gigs. There’s nothing like being in the moment in your own world while someone’s performing. Everyone’s having a shared but different experience and I really like that (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).

Sasha Sloan – The Only

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Follow Carys Calling

Official:

https://www.caryscalling.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/itscaryscalling/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/caryscalling

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9wDIBnQIGC3dlKDludL8JQ

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/caryscalling

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1tILIXpJFz1MskOu4M6NCx?si=SpeEWUh5QxKJv1AFUPG9bQ

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/caryscalling/

INTERVIEW: Adam Giles Levy

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Gemma Martz 

Adam Giles Levy

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THE terrific Adam Giles Levy…

 PHOTO CREDIT: Lorena Lucenilla-Lavapies

has been talking with me about his latest single, The Ghosts, and his brand-new E.P., Peninsula. I ask the songwriter what sort of themes influenced the E.P. and which artists he is inspired by; when music came into his life; if he has any precious memories from his career so far – he recommends a rising act worth a shout.

I ask him what he has planned regarding tour dates; which albums are especially important to him; if he has any advice for artists coming through; which musician he’d support if he has the chance – Levy ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

I’m well, thanks. This last week has been pretty full-on. I played three shows at the Live at Heart festival in Sweden; flew to Barcelona for a show and, as I write, I’m on the road to Rome for the start of six-date Italian tour.

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

Of course. My name is Adam Giles Levy. I’m an Alternative-Rock, Blues artist originally from Frimley Green in Surrey, England. My second E.P., Peninsula, is out on 13th September, 2018! I released my debut E.P., Unravelled, in 2016 and have spent most of the time on the road since then. I cut my teeth in music playing and recording in Vancouver, Canada. Before committing full-time to music I was a lawyer, believe it or not.

The Ghosts is your new track. Can you talk about the song and its inspiration?

I wrote this one during a tour of Spain. It was inspired by the story of a people’s struggle to save their town from a major infrastructure project - a struggle which they lost leading to their relocation. The reservoir that resulted from this project is a beautiful place but with undeniably shady beginnings.

The video is really interesting! Where was it shot and who came up with the concept?

I’m glad you’re into it. The video was filmed on location in a small village called Collbato in Catalonia, Spain with the spectacular Montserrat mountain as a backdrop. The video was directed by my friend and collaborator Diego Urruchi from Media Attack, Bilbao. He also directed the video for Unravelled.

We recorded the video straight after finishing the new album before my band headed back to the U.K. and Madrid respectively. We recorded through a strange weather front which gave us all four seasons in the space of twenty-four hours. There are even some scenes with snow in them!

The Ghosts is from your new E.P., Peninsula. What sort of themes inspired the songs on the E.P.?

The struggle between humans and nature; John Paul White’s reminder not to forget our roots; a book called The Good Father; confronting bureaucracy and a dream involving horses. In that order.

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

Right now, the bands I have most present in my day to day are Rival Sons, Fink; Deap Vally and The Picture Books. My most-recent download was a remastered album of John Lee Hooker’s material. I don’t recall a time when music wasn’t present in my life. The two albums which I remember most from my childhood are Rumours by Fleetwood Mac and the Les Misérables soundtrack.

Do you recall the moment you got into music? Was there a day when you knew this is what you had to do?

There have been a couple of key moments. The first one was seeing trumpet extraordinaire Wynton Marsalis at the Royal Albert Hall when I was a kid. My mum took me to see him. I think he’s still the only musician to win a Grammy for both Classical and Jazz music. I was blown away by that experience.

The second was seeing John Mayer at the Hammersmith Apollo when he was touring Room for Squares. Seeing a performer as gifted as he is, close up; I knew that I wanted to strive for that too.

PHOTO CREDIT: Gemma Martz

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

I have dates confirmed in Europe all the way up to the middle of December. So, I’d like to reach as many new people as I can in that time.

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

Right now, I’d say recording the new album. My band and I tracked the new album over five days in a studio north of Barcelona, Spain. Alex Gamble, who produced my previous work, came over from Toronto to produce and engineer. Jack Usher (drums) and Joseph Rideout (bass) came over from the U.K. and Laura Solla (guitars) came to join us from Madrid. The studio was residential so we were literally together twenty-four-hours-a-day for five days! It was an intense and hugely satisfying experience. I’m excited about releasing the new album.

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

I Forget Where We Were - Ben Howard

This is one of very few albums I can listen to front to back and want to put it on again as soon as it’s finished. Wicked melodies and tracks with dark undertones.

Head Down - Rival Sons

I bought this on vinyl the first time I saw Rival Sons live in Barcelona. Best live show I’ve seen to date.

Santogold – Santigold

I used to live in Bristol and loved it there. This album reminds me of that period. Good times.

PHOTO CREDIT: Candela Paos

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

Hands down, Robert Plant. What an epic music life he’s lead! Massive respect for an artist who seems to have kept himself firmly in the present when it would have been easy to have leant on the music which brought him fame.

For the rider, I’ll take The Henry from Budgies Burritos in Vancouver and a bottle of Tripel Karmeliet (Belgian beer). Although, I might not make it out on stage after one of those…

Can we see you tour soon? Where are you playing?

Yes. It’d be great to see you at a show! All my dates are published on my website. I’ll be back playing in the U.K. in January 2019.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you want to gig, invest in getting a decent recording done to showcase your best songs - even if it’s just a couple of tracks done acoustically. It’s competitive out there so try and always put your best foot forward when you’re marketing yourself.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Deap Vally/PHOTO CREDIT: Shane Lopes

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Deap Vally, a Rock duo from California. I played Sofar Sounds Barcelona with them and absolutely loved their energy. Their live show seriously rocks.

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

Yoga…and I like to read. I’m working my way through No Is Not Enough by Naomi Klein. I hang out with my cats; try and see the family and friends that I don’t see very often. I ride my road bike when I can.

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

I’d like Electric Man by Rival Sons

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Follow Adam Giles Levy

PHOTO CREDIT: Gemma Martz 

Official:

http://adamgileslevy.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/adamgileslevymusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/adamgileslevy

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8XBveXS24F3oaJHiAYLaqg

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/adam-giles-levy

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0L8V0okTShCHERAVGru0lJ

INTERVIEW: gv.grace

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Elise Mesner

gv.grace

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MY last interview of the day is with gv.grace…

who have been telling me about their new single, F**k Golf, and its amusing video. I learn how Genevieve and Griffith got together and whether there will be more material coming next year – they tell me what sort of music influences them.

The duo reveal which albums mean the most to them each and if there are tour dates coming up; if they have a favourite memory from their careers so far; which approaching artists we need to keep an ear out for – Genevieve and Griffith each pick a song to end the interview with.

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

We’ve had a busy week peddling this grass crotch far and wide.

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

My name is Genevieve and my partner/producer is Griffith, A.K.A. Inner Oceans. 

How did gv.grace get together? When did you start performing together?

We’ve been collaborating musically for the last ten years and finally began a project just the two of us. Our first night in the studio we wrote two songs in about two hours - both of which appear on our first E.P., Heaven Mouth.

Talk to me about F**k Golf. Can you reveal the inspiration behind the song and how it came to mind?

F**K Golf came about after we listened to Malcolm Gladwell’s Revisionist History podcast. The specific episode is A Good Walk Spoiled. We wanted to write a protest song but from the perspective of the privileged perpetrator. It’s an absurd parody but the character in this song is what’s behind the classism that is creating harmful disparities in our society. We also wanted to reveal ‘her’ fragility as one who is also oppressed by playing into that role.

I like the video a lot! How did the concept come together? Was it cool working on it?

It was amazing. Elise Mesner was our dream director for this. We thought her aesthetic matched perfectly for the song. Needless to say, we were thrilled when she loved the track.

After we saw her treatment, we knew we had to do whatever it took to make it a reality. Somehow, everything came together. We met D.O.P. Michael Attalah whose eye and energy made this video world-class. We met James Joyner on a shoot and he offered to build us a full-sized diorama!

By chance, we were also able to pull in the legendary Hollywood snake handler, Jules Sylvester, and his beautiful albino Texas rat snake. There were more than twenty models, dancers; actors and assistants that volunteered their time to bring life to this video! It was the highlight of our year so far!

Heaven Mouth EP was released earlier this year. Do you think there will be another E.P. coming next year?

YES! We are deep in the writing process. At this point, we are focusing on a string of singles but we imagine another E.P. release early next spring.

If I were to travel back to your childhoods; what sort of music would I find in your collections?

Genevieve: I was raised on a lot of ’60s/’70s Soul. Memphis Soul was my favorite (Al Green, Otis Redding; The Staple Singers…) and lots of Prince.

Griffith: Smashing Pumpkins and Enya. But, more than anything, I loved the classic SNES composers like Yasunori Mitsuda and Koji Kondo.

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

We want to introduce the character, gv.grace, to the world! We also hope F**K Golf can contribute to the social/political dialogue as we approach our midterms this fall.

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

Last year, we decided to go to FYF Fest in Los Angeles. We jumped into the sweat and grime of the festival and it just felt so good to be a music fan again! Nothing beats the feeling of having an almost teenage obsession over your favorite artists like being willing to stand in the heat - packed in from all sides - to listen to your favorite songs.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Genevieve: Marvin Gaye – What’s Going On

I hear an artist transcending their own talent and making something effortless. Looking through Marvin Gaye’s eyes at the insanity and brutality and seeing the beauty beyond all of it. He made something to help all of us through it.

Griffith: My Bloody Valentine - Loveless

It’s catastrophic, like a star. The sounds are unbelievably violent if you are too close. But, from afar, it’s breathtaking and absolutely beautiful…almost angelic.

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

We both love Little Dragon. The daily catharsis of playing with them would be incredible. Our rider? Cat butlers? Yeah; we want cat butlers…

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

We will be focusing regionally on the West Coast through the year. But, we hope to begin more extensive tours through the U.S. in 2019. Definitely, we dream of playing in U.K. and Europe as well. Our next show is in L.A. at the Hi Hat on October 10th - Playing with N.Y.C. band Plastic Picnic and L.A. locals Laureline.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The best advice we ever got was from esteemed music lawyer, Richard Grabel, and it seems pertinent to more than just music. He said: “The ones that make it are the ones that stick to their guns”. People can feel when something is made from a genuine place.

IN THIS PHOTO: Boy Dude

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Boy Dude. Sincerely kitchy love-jams from the forgotten vinyl multiverse. Your Smith works so hard and has the tracks to prove it. Check out The Spot. Pure Pop candy. Kitty Crimes. Producer/rapper phenom. Also, your future spirit animal.

IN THIS PHOTO: Kitty Crimes

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

We love nothing more than to go on long drives while listening to our favorite records. We love to explore and we love finding the soundtrack for those times.

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

Caribou - Silver

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Follow gv.grace

Official:

https://www.gvgrace.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/gvgracemusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/GVGRACEFACE

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5iAQrJb1nK1GDc_AdrJ7fw

INTERVIEW: TGC

INTERVIEW:

TGC

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MILLA from TGC has been speaking with me…

about the new single, ECG, and what its story is. I ask how TGC came together and how they craft and have that particular, unique sound – she talks about future plans and what it feels like getting kudos and acclaim from some big sources.

I was interested discovering how they became involved with the fundraising D.V.D./C.D. project, Hear Me Now, and whether there are tour dates coming up; if there are any rising artists we need to keep an eye out for – Milla ends the interview by selecting a great tune.

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

We’ve had a great week, thanks! It’s been a long time since we’ve released new music, so it has been wonderful to reconnect with our audience. So far, the response has been lovely.

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

We are TGC - short for ‘The Green Children’. It’s just me (Milla) and Marlow writing and producing songs from the ground up. We are deeply inspired by story-telling, fantasy/sci-fi films and beautiful nature, like you can find in Norway where I’m from.

How did TGC come to be? When did you find one another?

We met at a school established by the great Beatle Paul McCartney – actually, in our very first songwriting class. I arrived late and Marlow was left without a partner. A moment of fate from which we never looked back after penning our first tune together.

ECG is your new single. Is there a story behind the song?

A lot of our songs stem from flowing improvisation in the studio and the music we create often dictates the lyrical content and mood of the song. So, with ECG, Marlow came up with most of the production and then I went immediately on the mic and sang my initial lyrical thoughts straight on the record. We have found that we make the purest music when we don’t spend too much time thinking over lyrics and subject matters before we get our initial impulses out.

You have very particular sound that is hard to compare to anyone. Do you take influence from other artists? What sort of music did you both grow up around?

We have a very broad taste in music but have always loved dreamy music that takes you away. These include classic artists like Fleetwood Mac, Eurythmics and Electronic artists like Røyksopp.

Big names in music journalism have backed your music and spread it far! How does it feel to get kudos from the likes of Rolling Stone?!

It is obviously very flattering. Our biggest joy has been finding an audience out there that genuinely seem to connect with our music. They often describe it in ways that are so accurate to our original intentions whilst making it. It goes to show how music contains a hidden depth that humans pick up on. It has been magical to see how people relate to us.

Tell me about the fundraising C.D./D.V.D., Hear Me Now, you released throughout Norway. How did that venture start and inspire you to raise money – from that work – for one of the first eye hospitals in Bangladesh?

We travelled to Bangladesh to visit the work of Grameen Bank, who are pioneers in micro-finance. This is the lending of small sums of money to women for the purpose of starting businesses. What we saw was incredibly powerful. Because of the work of the bank and its founder Prof. Muhammad Yunus, millions of women had become empowered and escaped severe poverty. It felt very natural for us to write a song in honour of their journey which then turned into subsequent trips and a music video shoot.

To our surprise, Prof. Yunus went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize and, with the video in place, we used it to raise as much money as possible for a new eye care hospital he was working on. The hospital helps people who have lost their sight due to cataracts and, because of its sustainable approach, two more hospitals have spawned from it. The credit is certainly not ours but it feels great that we could contribute.

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

Our biggest focus is just to make the greatest music and art we can; pushing ourselves and not accepting anything that we don’t absolutely love. What comes from it is a lesser focus at this point and not a major motivator for our creative flow.

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

I think meeting fans in person is always incredible. We have found people to be so loving and supportive, it is almost overwhelming. In a world where we always connect digitally, a personal interaction after a show makes music feel powerful and real again.

Which one album means the most to you would you say (and why)?

Every album and song is special in its own way because they reflect where you were as a person when they were written. I suppose our first album will always have a special place as it was the first time we produced everything ourselves, so were going out on a limb. It led to our direction ever since.

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

That is a tough question. We would say Enya but she never tours! Sure would be magical though.

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

Absolutely. We are working on that now and we will be touring in 2019 in Europe and the U.S. Hoping to announce show dates soon.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To focus on the music and enjoying being creative. I am not sure focusing too much on success is a very complimentary component of a truly artistic life.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Illenium

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Discovered Illenium recently through our mutual P.R. Very cool stuff.

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

We spend a lot of time in nature with no phones and no social media. It is so important to get into the body, since music can get quite heavy mentally. Lots of hikes and fresh air!

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).

Just heard this song; don’t know if it is new or old but it is very nice! Promises Ltd. - American Eyes

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Follow TGC

Official:

https://www.tgcmusic.net/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thisistgc

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thisistgc/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLy0ilmyU47qrwjw95TTz0A

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0TKIN6ssV2jhUlRm3r7U4z

INTERVIEW: Mira of Schmieds Puls

INTERVIEW:

Mira of Schmieds Puls

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WITH the album Manic Acid Love out…

I have been speaking with Mira of Schmieds Puls about the record and what the story is behind the latest single, Don’t Love Me Like That – she reveals her favourite three albums and talks about how the band got together.

I was keen to discover whether there are tour dates coming and, as an Austrian band, what the music scene is like there; if she has plans before the end of the year – Mira talks about a special memory from her time in music.

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

Hi! Thank you. I’m very tired - but it’s the kind of tired that feels good because you know you’ve given your all and now you can finally rest.

The week’s been really busy. I finished filming another music video on sunday, released my homemade one for Don’t Love Me Like That; played three shows at three very different places (the very west of Austria; the very east and Vilnius, Lithuania) and celebrated the release of the new album.

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

My name is Mira Lu Kovacs. I am a singer, guitarist; lyricist and composer from Vienna, Austria. I like to play in various bands but Schmieds Puls is the one that is all mine. And I live for it. I like to think that my music is a new mixture of whatever you think ‘Singer Songwriter’ means; Jazz (if you must) and Grunge.

How did Schmieds Puls get together? When did you all meet?

I met Christian Grobauer (Drums) and Walter Singer (Double Bass) through a friend who asked us to play with him at his piano recital. I fell in love with their kindness and  the finesse they put in every single note, so I invited them to a jam. Shortly after that we had our first gig - that was five years ago.

Don’t Love Me Like That is your latest single. Is there a story behind it?

What I tried to express was my undecidedness when it comes to relationships. Nothing is ever only one thing. I am so easily driven away, so it is a constant back and forth with me in relationships (of all sorts). I guess it is the hardest thing for me to trust somebody. I can’t have my heart broken all the time and I feel like I have to protect it constantly. I have no other protection shield than simply turning away soon enough or maybe never really letting myself fall too deep…

Manic Acid Love is your new album. What is the inspiration behind the title? Are there particular themes that inspired the music?

Yes. Although, ‘manic’ is really the main emotion on this album. I can be really obsessive over things that are important to me - like music, the language I use and create to express myself. I feel a strong need to be understood so I need to make myself really clear. But, if I’m not careful it overwhelms me and that initially positive and strong energy (1., the ‘mania’) somehow turns against me (that’s 2., 'acid’). With this album I tried to get closer to my  'zen' me (and 3., ’love’) by pushing out the bad energy and setting boundaries for people who overstep them. 

I’m not there yet, obviously. I’m still easily distracted and irritated. Mostly by men who want to correct me or tell me that I am crazy.

Is there a song from the album that stands out as your favourite?

I am really happy about the whole piece, to be honest, so it’s hard to pick a favourite. But, of course, Superior (Fuck You) is very therapeutic and healing for me and it makes me laugh while performing it.

Do you remember the artists you followed growing up? Who do you rank as idols?

Blondie, Ani DiFranco; Whitney Houston; Lauryn Hill; Radiohead, Tanita Tikaram; Tom Waits and Paula Cole. All very important artists that I still adore!

Schmieds Puls are based in Austria. Is there a good music scene in Austria right now?

Yes!  There is massive-good stuff happening in Austria, actually. Not only is the German-speaking field thriving but also the Hip-Hop scene is finally getting some attention. I think people started to think big again, which manifested in big ideas on and off stage…

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

To be able to breath in and out three times in a row and think of absolutely nothing. To be okay with my shortcomings and actually maybe even love them…? I know it’s a big dream. Zen for thirty-five seconds.

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

There are many. Each release so far was a big deal for me because I feel like a part of me is being set free at the same time - as if you’re sending off a message in a bottle or something…

There was a beautiful and intense performance this year I did in front of fifty-thousand people. To my surprise, I got really calm when I entered the stage. For the first time ever I wasn’t nervous at all at a gig. The crowd seemed so unreal and I just went somewhere else during these minutes.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ingo Pertramer

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

Paula Cole - This Fire

I got into her music when my English skills were non-existent so I didn't understand the lyrics. But, the phrasing in Paula Cole’s singing is just (so) unique. Also, I don’t know anybody who writes songs like Mississippi or Hush Hush Hush or Nietzsche’s Eyes… a masterpiece!

Radiohead - Hail to the Thief

I am picking this album because it’s the one that got me into the Radiohead madness. After that, I listened to the rest. Of course, I think all Radiohead albums are some of the best pieces of all the music that was ever made. But, Hail to the Thief understood my teenage self the best! So dark, so dee; so intense! We Suck Young  Blood, I Will; 2+2=5 etc.

Ani DiFranco - Evolve

Unique style in every way. Can’t compare it to anything…plus, her guitar playing influenced me tremendously!

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

I don’t dare to dream. I’d love to play with Jack White or Feist. But honestly, they don’t need anybody!

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

October 23rd at Sebright Arms, London. I’ll perform a solo set and I’ll bring my favourite Wander guitar.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t rush with releasing albums. Play play play until you get to know yourself better and have a fanbase that can make an album really go places. There’s no need to rush it and your ideas will only get better!

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Well. I think the scene probably knows about Moses Sumney by now. Sevdaliza was also a big discovery for me this year.

IN THIS PHOTO: Sevdaliza

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

No. I don’t often, especially these past months. But, I have my rituals. I need my breakfast time and, if possible, I just stay in bed and have breakfast all day. I like to be alone and get my things in order.

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).

Because a one-song/one-album kinda person - meaning I can spend months and years with only a few songs or albums that fascinate me and I won’t ask for anything else - I don’t know much music, especially the classics. I am only slowly discovering them. But, I won’t ask for Paul Simon’s Bridge Over Troubled Water - it’s too embarrassing that I haven’t known it for my whole life until last month. So, I suggest Changes by Black Sabbath. If that’s a no-go, I choose Broken Boy Soldier by The Raconteurs, pleeeease.

Thank you!  - best, Mira.

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Follow Scmieds Puls

Official:

https://www.schmiedspuls.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/schmieds_puls

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/schmiedspuls/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/schmieds_puls/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChrk5MRYQh0tn1o4Cv-m01w

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/schmiedspuls

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3tXAnSiJDtpJWZFX9nFPMz

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise):

Ina Aydogan

INTERVIEW: Will Bowes

INTERVIEW:

Will Bowes

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I have been speaking with Will Bowes…

about his single, Mad at the World, and the inspiration behind it. The actor/musician discusses how the disciplines weave and what it was like working alongside Jennifer Lawrence; if there is more coming up from him; which albums are important to him – the Canadian tells me when music came into his life.

I ask Bowes if he is hitting the road and which new artists we need to get behind; whether he gets time to chill when he is not making music – the songwriter ends the interview by selecting a rather good tune.

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

Hi, guys! My week has been very great, thank you. I’m talking with you fine people and about to go to the premiere of a film I’m in at TIFF, so I have nothing to complain about right now!

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

Of course. My name is Will Bowes and I’m a singer/songwriter, actor and filmmaker from Toronto.

Mad at the World is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

Yes. Mad at the World is basically how I, as well as I’m sure a lot of other people, are feeling right now. It’s a song about feeling frustrated, dissatisfied and helpless surrounded by the negative energy we’ve been subjected to lately. But, it’s also a song about hope and optimism - and a belief that things will get better. Toronto, where I live, suffered two extreme attacks this year and it was those attacks that made me feel like I had to write this song.

Do you think there might be more material coming next year? Are you working on other stuff?

Ye. I am always working on new material and I can’t wait to share it when it’s ready. I am also the lead singer in a band called GOLD COMPLEX and we have a record coming out this fall! It’s a Soul/Pop band with a horn section and it’s music that makes you want to move your body!

You are an actor who has worked alongside, among other people, Jennifer Lawrence! Do you think disciplines you have learned as an actor feed into your music – or might the reverse be true?

Yes! I worked with Jennifer right before she got crazy-famous; she is really cool and down-to-earth. I think the two feed into each other for sure. From a performative standpoint, of course, but also both fields are about conveying emotion. About opening yourself up and letting people into your soul, to a degree.

Do you recall the moment you got into music? Was there a day when you knew this is what you had to do?

I guess this applies to everyone but I just remember noticing how much music could have an impact on the way I felt as a kid. I remember one time my dad was cooking dinner and playing Bob Marley and he said to me: “Listen to this music, it’s supposed to make you happy and feel at peace” and that was the first moment I think I realized how significant music can be for people as a cathartic experience. I first wanted to be a singer and then I become obsessed with film and I’ve been chipping away at the two for years now.

In terms of musicians; what sort of stuff are you into? Who were you raised on?

Definitely, Neil Young.

Fisher Price used to make these brilliant little toys for kids and it was a cassette player, attached to a microphone that you could carry around and sing along to. I used to do that with Neil Young’s Decade album. I was raised on an assortment of music for sure; definitely Neil Young, The Beatles and Joni Mitchell are stand-outs.

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

I think I just really want to feel completely comfortable expressing myself with creative projects and not worrying about how they’ll be perceived. I’ve spent too much time analyzing and maybe not enough time just living and doing.

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

I think just the feeling of playing a great show and knowing that the audience is vibing with you one hundred percent is the best feeling you can have in music.

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

Ok, well; as I mentioned: Neil Young’s Decade.

The Beatles’ ‘The White Album’

Because it was just the soundtrack to my childhood.

And, no word of a lie, I really enjoyed Christina Aguilera’s album Stripped as a kid

She’s such an incredible vocalist and was twenty-one when she released that album. It’s underrated in terms of being brilliant music. I’m dead-serious.

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

Probably a cliché answer but I think it would have to be John Mayer. I’ve always loved his music and feel that our two sounds would probably work together. And, exclusively red M&Ms in my rider, thank you.

Can we see you tour soon? Where are you playing?

I plan to tour with my band, Gold Complex, and also play some solo shows. Sorry I don’t have a more definitive answer but I will soon!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To actually DO things. Create things. Make music. Play shows - even if they are to empty rooms and you feel like a complete idiot afterwards. Just do it. Don’t talk about wanting to do it. Do it.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Aphrose/PHOTO CREDIT: Jen Squires - Photographer

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. There is a local artist who I love in Toronto called Aphrose. She’s an amazing Soul singer and you would love her stuff!

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

I like to stay extremely active. I think that’s just a part of my personality but I love watching movies. I love the feeling of turning my phone off and going to sit in a movie theatre and immersing myself in an experience like that.

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

I’m honoured! Ok! My friend just played this amazing song for me called Tadow by Masego and FKJ and I promise you’ll like it! Thanks for having me

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Follow Will Bowes

Official:

https://www.willbowes.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/wilsonbowes

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/wilsonbowes

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/wilsonbowes/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZP4okXWnOlM19EUhQrUrUw

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/wilsonbowes

INTERVIEW: Lo Lo

INTERVIEW:

Lo Lo

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IT is good to catch up with Lo Lo…

and talk about her new single, Convenient - it follows on from Yours and is the next step in the story. The songwriter reveals what she wants to achieve moving forward and tells me which three albums mean the most to her – she recommends some rising artists we should investigate.

I ask how music came into her life and, given the choice, which artist she’d like to support on tour; if she gets any time to chill away from making music; what advice she would give to artists emerging – Lo Lo ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hi Sam! I am doing great, thank you. The week has been hectic, but good! 

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

Hey guys! I’m Lo Lo and I’m a singer/songwriter from Toronto!

Convenient is your current track. What is the story behind the song?

If you’ve been following, Convenient is actually the follow-up to my first debut single, Yours. It’s also what comes next in the story. After my breakup, I had a really hard time making a connection with someone. I got in touch with an old friend who had moved away and also just gotten out of a long-term relationship.

We ended up being each other’s rebounds - we had a summer fling. But, that’s all it was: a rebound. This song underlines that fact. Afterwards, I heard he said some pretty mean things about me and I wasn’t happy. I came home after finding this out and I wrote Convenient.

How do you think it differs to a track like Yours? Do you find you are changing and evolving as a songwriter?

I definitely think I am always changing and evolving as a songwriter and an artist. It differs to Yours because it’s a little more intense. It’s darker. Yours came from a sad place but Convenient came from an angry place, so it has a slightly different vibe.

Might we see more material next year? How far ahead do you look?

Yes, sir! I’m actually hoping to release another single this year and hopefully three or four songs in the New Year as part of a package. I can’t wait.

How did music come into your life? Which artists did you follow as a child?

As a child, I watched Shirley Temple movies religiously. I think my grandfather was the first to show me them. She was definitely my inspiration for wanting to be a performer. I made my mom put me in acting classes, singing lessons and tap dancing classes. Growing up, I was your typical ‘90s kid - a few of my favourites that I followed were the Spice Girls, Backstreet Boy; NSYNC and Hilary Duff.

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

I hope to put out more music! It’s seriously killing me. I really want to show the world what I’m all about.

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

Right now, I don't know if I have one in particular. After releasing my first single, Yours, I got so much positive feedback. So many people I knew, or didn't know, reaching out. Hearing my song playing in my favourite clothing stores. Man, it was all epic.

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

Taylor Swift - Fearless

I’ve said it many times, but Taylor Swift is one of the reasons that I’m never afraid to write about real people and true sh*t. Every song on this album was once my anthem. She didn’t care what anyone would think when she wrote about real things in her life and that helped me realize that…neither do I.

John Mayer - Battles Studies

This album came out right when I was first learning to play guitar, which is the first instrument I ever learned. That’s really special to me. I can confidentially say I once knew how to play every song on this album. 

Gavin DeGraw - Sweeter

If you know me, you know my love for this man. This album came out right when I started writing songs of my own. This album influenced me a lot. Even though we obviously have different styles, I take a lot from him. I strive for my songs to have the authenticity and soul that these ones do. Sign me up.

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

I’d love to support Billie Eilish. That girl is so dope it’s insane.

Dream rider would consist of lots of red wine and lots of puppies around at all times. Also, iced Caramel Macchiatos and Pillsbury cookies. 

Will there be some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

I’m still figuring out exact tour dates but I’d love to make it out to the U.K. obviously (smiles).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep pushing, keep grinding; don’t give up. Put out music that is genuine and that you love - someone else will love it too.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Sasha Sloan

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Relatively new - Sasha Sloan. Her song, Normal, is fuc*ed-up good. Another good one is LeRiche. Check out Under Covers.

 IN THIS PHOTO: LeRiche

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

I try to make chill time for myself. It’s funny because, a lot of times, I unwind from real life by playing guitar or writing a song about how I’m feeling. Non-music-related, I usually unwind by going on long walks with my mom or by watching T.V. My guilty pleasure is The Bachelor.

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).

Since we were just on the topic of favourite albums, here’s one of my favourite songs from one of my favourite albums: Run Every Time by Gavin DeGraw

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Follow Lo Lo

Official:

http://www.itslolomusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/itslolomusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/its.lo.lo.music/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/itslolomusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMgn05wA8bs-xFykolBsbQA

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/itslolomusicxo

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5MjcGshMggPgIHinIUDaX0?si=J8YRuhtuSVO-IFw_HR3bOA

INTERVIEW: Midnight Mschief

INTERVIEW:

Midnight Mschief

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I have been speaking with Midnight Mschief…

about their beginnings and how they found one another. The guys tell me about their new single, Ride, and filming its video. I ask how music arrived in their lives and what they have planned going forward – they each pick a song to end the interview with.

I was interested to know what they all hope to achieve before the end of the year and whether they had favourite memories from their careers so far; which rising artists we need to get behind and follow – they provide advice for artists coming through.

__________

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

Firas Viirgo: Amazing as always! Moved into a new place and setting up my room and studio…its all in one room. Haha.

Reem: It's been busy. Been working on some new music for you guys.

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

Firas Viirgo: What’s good; it’s yo boy Jermaine from the 305…just messing. My name is Firas. I go by ‘Viirgo’ as my producer name. I’m a Haitian-Omani dude who films most of our band’s music videos and watches a lot of foreign movies.

WNDRSS: My name is Fatma Mirza. I go by WNDRSS or, as my friends call me, ‘Tutu’.

Reem: My name is Reem from Midnight Mschief. I'm the color red on our logo.

Ride is your latest single. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

WNDRSS: Ride was the first song written by the two singers in the group - Reem and I. The song is a light-hearted Hip-Hop track about meeting someone who makes you careless about your surrounding; it’s about that feeling you get when you meet someone and find them interesting.

Reem: It's one of our personal songs. My bandmate and I wrote it together while video chatting as she was in a whole different continent. We wrote it in one all-nighter.

Firas Viirgo: What’s funny about Ride is, when WNDRSS and Reem wrote it, it was kind of based on a true story from a person I personally know that the band members haven’t met. She was in love with him, he got the signs but didn’t want to move forward ‘cause he valued their friendship a lot…and just like that...boom…you’re in the friend-zone.

The video looks like it was interesting to film. Where did you shoot that?

Firas Viirgo: Kris directed the first half in New York and, when she travelled to Dubai to see her family, I directed the second half of it with her.

Reem: It was shot by a photographer and a model whom are acquaintances of Viirgo in the U.S.

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

WNDRSS: Definitely. We are currently working on an album - we want to provide music that is undeniably great and has its own unique sound.

Firas Viirgo: Most definitely! We are working on our first album called Remember Everyone’s Damaged. The story behind the album reflects on the first color off our logo (R.E.D.). It will showcase how society have this ‘mask’ on; to prove that everything going about in their life is fine no matter how successful or happy they are. We are all fragile. We are human.

How did Midnight Mschief form? When did you all get together?

WNDRSS: We met in March while we were in different countries – U.A.E., Oman and the U.K. We found that we have a common love and passion for music and have been making music since.

Reem: I was first introduced to Firas through his cousin. She took a video of me singing in a parking lot and she took my number and told me about her having a producer cousin who's been looking for a female singer. Soon after Firas contacted and, as soon as we started working, he told me about him wanting to form a girl’s band and mentioned Tutu and sent me some of her work. I agreed on the spot as they are both talented artists. We've been working since starting with us being in three different countries then, finally, united a few months later.

Firas Viirgo: I met WNDRSS online and we’ve been speaking back and forth a couple times; just short talk. I was creating an online band at the time through a Reddit forum and asked her to join. She agreed…but the band didn’t last a week. Haha. Although, she was the only member then who kept sending my vocal demos consistently. She told me: “Firas, fu*k ‘em; let’s go make our own small band”. She’s straightforward so I liked that and followed her since.

When did music arrive in your lives? Which artists are you inspired by?

Firas Viirgo: Man…for as long as I could remember. I could tell you that the two artists that inspired me to start producing at nineteen was Maya Jane Coles and Detroit producer/singer JMSN

Reem: I was introduced to music at a very young age as I come from a musical family/background. My mother used to sing in college and my father is a poet - getting it from my grandfather who is a national singer and poet. I was first introduced to the piano and then went on to singing and songwriting. One of my favourite artists is Jordan Rakei! His music is beautiful, inspiring and very soulful.

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

WNDRSS: A full album release and listening party - and at least two music videos.

Reem: We'd have dropped our new album hopefully by then. We'd have a few gigs locally and internationally also with the hope of expanding our fan base.

Firas Viirgo: Having a successful album listening party and starting a solid foundation by establishing our band’s brand in the Middle East and gain recognition from dope sources. Whether it be an known artist or a popular Spotify playlist

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

WNDRSS: I started writing Rap music from a very young age. When I was twelve, I spoke to my music teacher at school and asked him if I could do a live performance at the assembly and he said ‘yes’. I was very excited and a friend of mine who also enjoyed writing rhymes joined me on stage. Although the management at school was shocked (and not in a good way), the whole school cheered once we were done. I don’t remember what I had written for that anymore, but I know it was great.

Firas Viirgo: My favourite memory has to be being grateful that I have met two very driven and committed artists in my band.

Reem: Well, it's a very recent one as I performed in an open mic, mostly improvised with some amazing local musicians. It was spontaneous and beautiful. It was an amazing experience.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Firas Viirgo: Priscilla by JMSN

That got me into producing and the level of production in that album was and is insane. This was 2013…

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

Firas Viirgo: RICK JAMES, BIIITCH! Haha. I think I’d literally die in the first week of touring with him. But, on a real note, it would either be Russ or BROCKHAMPTON. I would have a bunch of medications available (for minor sh*t like a flu or cough) ‘cause I get mad-sick when I travel to another country for some reason.

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

Firas Viirgo: We are gonna throw a private listening party on Nov 11. It’s hard touring around the Middle East as there are hella load of rules and regulations. But, we will find a loophole.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Firas Viirgo: Be consistent and have a plan. Don’t try to freestyle your way ‘cause you’ll end up in a limbo…you don’t want to end up like DiCaprio in Inception.

IN THIS PHOTO: Adam Nabeel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Firas Viirgo: Any of the Omani artists making noise in the city. We got Adam Nabeel, Wassup Nile and Emaan Zadjali. Oh; you should definitely check out Saffron. She’s based in Dubai and we’re doing a collab. album.

Reem: I’m much more of an old music type of person unfortunately: I don't keep up with new music that much but there are some amazing upcoming raw local musicians here in Muscat.

IMAGE CREDIT: Emaan Zadjali

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

WNDRSS: Going on nature trips is my favourite way to unwind. Sometimes, the music gets too loud and I need some silence to refresh. It also helps whenever I have a writer’s block

Firas Viirgo: I’m always surrounded my music whether I like it or not. If I’m not producing, I’m listening to some other artist’s production or watching a film (and the soundtrack being so amazing that I have to dig deep into it).

Reem: To me, I don't feel the need to chill away from music as it is my escape I tend to turn to music to unwind; it's relaxing and accompanying.

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).

WNDRSS: Arin Ray (ft. DRAM) - Communication

Reem: Kaiit - 2000 n Somethin

Firas Viirgo: The Blaze – Queens

Their music video is the best storytelling I’ve ever seen

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Follow Midnight Mschief

Official:

https://midnightmschief.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/midnightmschief

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/midnightmschief

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/midnightmschief/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCarvpAd1kra0_nt2t6Pb-0Q

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/midnightmschief

INTERVIEW: Fiona Harte

INTERVIEW:

Fiona Harte

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THE superb Fiona Harte has been telling me…

about her debut single, White Picket Fence, and the story behind it. The Northern Irish artist resides in New York and I ask what compelled that move; whether she is looking ahead to future material and what sort of music she grew up around.

Harte reveals some rising artists worth a look; if there are any gigs booked; whether we might see her back in the U.K. soon, playing; the advice she would give to artists coming through – she ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

Hey, Sam. It’s been great! My first-ever single just came out today so it’s been busy but exciting.

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

Sure. I am from Ireland but currently based in New York. I moved over here to pursue music and have been trying to play as many shows as possible. I play guitar and my music is quite stripped back – ‘Acoustic singer-songwriter-style’ I would say.

White Picket Fence is your debut single. What can you reveal about the song’s story and how it came together?

I wrote the song after listening to a friend talk about a really crappy relationship she was in. I could sympathize with her from my own experience and the song was written within about an hour after she left my apartment. I wrote it on the balcony of the apartment I lived in in Dublin at the time. The song focuses on how your desired person can control your emotions by doing so little. Even though the song portrays as sad, it refers to having hope; perhaps for that love or another.

How does it feel knowing the song is out? Are you already looking ahead to new material?

It feels great – I can finally say I am an artist! I’ve taken my time recording a lot of stuff and waiting for the right time. This feels really right now. I am absolutely looking into my next release. I have started planning it already – it should be out before Christmas (smiles).

In terms of musicians; what sort of stuff are you into? Who were you raised on?

I love poetic lyrics, so a lot of Joni Mitchell and Carole King. I currently listen to a range of stuff. More recently, I have been listening to Jorja Smith, Daniel Ceaser; August Greene, stuff like that. An artist I love at the moment is Bruno Major. 

You are from Northern Ireland but based in New York. How inspiring is New York regarding your songwriting and creativity?

New York is incredibly inspiring to me and always has been. I love it here. The only thing I find, sometimes, is it gives me so much to write about but so little time to write! I feel like I am always running somewhere in this city.

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

I would love to have another single released and play as many shows as possible.

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

Yea. I think it was playing The Bluebird Cafe in Nashville. I have never been so nervous. The guys (in) In the Round were insanely talented and the audience really does not make a sound! It was a really magical night for me.

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

Joni Mitchell – Blue

It reminds me of when I first fell in love with music and writing. It’s an album I compare everything I do to, in order to get the best out of my own work. It will never be near that level (laughs) but I do always think of it after I complete something. I don’t know why.

David Gray – White Ladder

I just think it’s one of the most beautiful albums ever written. The production is incredible and I have always been a fan.

Dolly Parton – Here You Come Again

My mum always played it and it always reminds me of her. Great songs, too!

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

I would love love, love to support Frank Ocean. He’s one of my favourite writers! Rider. Haha. Maybe Milanos and Cab Sav (laughs).

Can we see you tour soon? Where are you playing?

I just played The Bitter End last night and have a Sofar Sounds on 27th September. After that, I will be doing a few shows in Ireland. Tour is on the cards; possibly 2019.

Do you think you’ll be back in the U.K. to perform at some point?

Yes. Sooner rather than later. I have a trip planned there for November.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I am still learning a lot but what I really became aware of recently is how I should always stick to my gut feeling. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. And, always be in control of the creative/release process as much as you can. It’s so important to be happy with what you put out.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Maria Kelly/PHOTO CREDIT: Ruthless Imagery

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. I love an Irish singer called Maria Kelly – her songs are amazing. And, also, a New York-based band called the Newcomers Club.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Newcomers Club

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

I do. I kind of go through phases of writing a lot and then not very much. I was trying to write a song every day for the past while. Right now, I am going through recordings of all my songs and re-writing which is fun. I just meet up with my Irish friends and go to the pub to unwind!

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

Thank you for doing this!

Joey Landreth - Still Feel Gone

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Follow Fiona Harte

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/FionaHarte1

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/FionaHarteMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/fionaharte/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRLZb8PpI9N7COmYqHiDH7A

INTERVIEW: Amigo the Devil

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Kelsy Filler  

Amigo the Devil

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IT has been cool speaking with Amigo the Devil…

about his latest song, Cocaine and Abel, and what its story is. Amigo the Devil (Danny) talks about his forthcoming album, Everything Is Fine, and what we might expect; the songwriters and albums that are important to him – I ask whether there are any tour dates approaching.

I discover when music came into his life and how an Amigo the Devil live set differs to the studio experience; if he has any goals to achieve before the end of the year; if there are rising artists we should get behind – he selects an awesome song to end the interview on.

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

We had some really dry months out here in the Hill Country and finally got the rain everyone has been hoping for so, besides the floods and not being able to float in the creek part, it’s been a good week. Floating in any body of water is probably my favorite feeling in the world.

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

Well. My name is Danny. I was born and raised in Miami, got restless at about seventeen and started moving around, trying to ‘find myself’. Haha. I tried immersing myself in the culinary world, retail; random creative jobs and finally found a home in the brewing industry.

The music I play is very dark thematically but none of it is meant to glorify misanthropy; simply present and analyze it. It’s hard to beat something without understanding the mechanism behind it so it seems logical to try and humanize what so many people simply try to ignore because it feels icky and it’s ‘bad’.

Cocaine and Abel is your new track. Can you reveal the story behind it?

The process for these lyrics was so much different than older songs. Instead of trying to craft and tell a story, it simply told itself. It would be hard for me to disclose the personal details within the song because at that point - I feel like it would shift into a song about me and that’s not why it exists.

Writing it, personally, helped me out but, hopefully, everyone that hears it will get whatever they need from it at that moment. It’s one of those moments where I can’t really take credit for this song because it just...came to existence...it was just born and I didn’t really have much say as to whether it would be or not.

The album, Everything Is Fine, is out on 19th October. Are there particular themes that inspired the songs?

If I had a single string to weave through each song on the record, I think it would be doubt and how alright that is to feel. Not necessarily doubt as a mechanism to fail through, or a platform to avoid living from atop of, but more as a mirror to identify and accept what can and will be better. I just wanted to be honest about my faults and fears in case someone else felt them too.

Somehow, it feels better to know you’re not alone in the pit and eventually, with enough people, everyone helps each other climb out of it. Like a human pyramid without the cheerleading outfits or depending on the situation with them? Who am I to say...

Ross Robinson produced the record. Was it cool working alongside him?

Working with Ross still affects me to this day after months of finishing up at the studio. It was an intensely positive experience for me. We had such a good time recording this record and when I listen back to the songs, I can still feel the energy we had in the studio on the record itself.  You know how they say we only use a small percentage of our brains? Working with Ross felt like I was trying to reach the unused part.

Whether we tapped into it or not doesn’t matter; only that we were working towards the beyond at all times and it’s something I carry into my everyday life. Is this how people start to lose their minds?

When did music come into your life? Which artists did you follow when you were young?

I learned to play guitar when I was around fourteen because of a band I wanted to join and we ended up playing for quite a while. Started playing shows around that same time with those dudes and then we started touring around sixteen. I missed so much, including high-school graduation, for the tour and I remember the show in PA the day of got cancelled. Wasn’t really from a traditional high-school anyway, so I guess it didn’t matter much.

Growing up in Miami, there was always a limit to how far South bands would come so most of my musical taste came from BMX magazines and videos like Props Road Fools. From The Get Up Kids to Tom Waits; Napalm Death, Testament; Carcass, Godspeed You!; Black Emperor, Thrice; The Adolescents, Killing Joke; ISIS, The Album Leaf and Fiona Apple. Converge was a big one for me because they were one of the bands that did come down to Miami and the first time I saw them (must have been like thirteen) it was the craziest thing I’d ever seen. I think it was them and Today is the Day. 

Those are just some of the bands off the top of my head - there’s a million more I’m sure but those are def. some of the staples.

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

One hell of a New Year’s party?

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

I honestly don’t. There isn’t one moment that would be fair to place above another one that immediately comes to mind and, since I don’t want to keep you here all day, it’s fair to say they’re all pretty damn great.

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

Pedro the Lion - Control

As far as Pedro records go, I’m torn between this and Winners Never Quit but I’m sticking to Control because Second Best is a top-three song for me at all times. The songs on this are so, so, so heavy and so far from Metal. The timing, the lyrics...it’s a record I reference a lot as an example of dynamics and using quiet to make something more intense as opposed to filling every space. First to last track, it’s flawless to me.

FIona Apple - Extraordinary Machine

This is one of those records that make me feel as good about myself as it does bad. It’s also the kind that puts how I feel into words for me; descriptions I would have never come up with on my own despite them being my own feelings. At the same rate, there isn’t anything Fiona has ever done that I’m not a sucker for.

Jason Isbell - Southeastern

Modern-day masterpiece. Even if you ignore that each song is itself a major accomplishment, I chose this because it’s one of the best examples of what a record should be front to back. The track-listing, the moods; the flow...it’s a coherent sentiment. The whole record tells one sonic story through completely unrelated concepts. Bahhh; it’s so goddamn good.

PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Dunn

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

There’s a loaded few months coming up. We have a few festivals coming up: Sing Out Loud (St. Augustine, Sept 22nd), Crucial Fest (SLC, Sept 28th) and Aftershock (Sacramento, Oct.14th). After that, we leave on a full U.S. run with Harley Poe that starts on Oct. 17th-Nov.18th. In December, we’ll be doing U.K., Paris and Amsterdam for the first time! We’ve been out there a bunch but never to play, so it’s exciting for me. I won’t bog this down with all the specific dates but they’re all on the site and around the Interwebs.

How does your live set differ to what you play in the studio? Are there big changes and adaptions?

It’s a huge difference and, personally, I prefer it that way. Every time an artist plays their set differently to how the record sounds, it feels more intimate to me. It’s a new experience that can only be had in that moment. As much as I say that, though, it isn’t really a choice for me. Haha. There just isn’t anyone else on stage with me so it’s impossible to recreate the record.

It was and continues to be a huge learning experience when it comes to adapting the songs, recorded as a complete band on the record to a solo environment but that’s half the fun. Turns out to be very interactive and I’m grateful to everyone who comes to the shows for putting up with my sh*t and helping out! Hell…who needs a band when you have so many awesome people with you in a room?

 PHOTO CREDIT: Karen Jerzyk

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

It sounds so strange as the first piece of advice but don’t ignore merch. Get creative. This isn’t even from a financial perspective: it’s your most tangible marketing. What I struggled the most with, and this applies to solo artists more than bands, was the embarrassment of playing songs that meant so much to me while no one gave a sh*t.

This was when I was trying to get shows anywhere I could, local bars; coffee shops...a bar full of people talking over the songs; ignoring my existence in general and the worst part is that I couldn’t blame them. It wasn’t their fault because, most of the time, it was me coming into their local spot expecting them to stop their lives to listen to someone they didn’t know.

With that in mind, don’t blame yourself or take it out on your craft. It’s not you and, although it feels like hell because there’s no other band members to rely on for motivation/fun/support in moments like that, the more personally you take it, the more it’ll eat your will to find ways to make them want to pay attention. That’s the game: How do I make them WANT to pay attention? Sometimes, it’s as easy as having a cool shirt design they see when they walk in. This phase doesn’t last forever if you keep your head up and learn from every experience instead of punish yourself through them.

IN THIS PHOTO: Emma Ruth Rundle

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Too many...

On my playlist right now: Colter Wall, dakhabrakha; King Woman, Tyler Childers; The Dead South, Jack Ladder & the Dreamlanders; Alex Cameron, Emma Ruth Rundle; The Bridge City Sinners, C.W. Stoneking; Pharmakon, Timber Timbre.

(I know some of these have been playing for a while but still new in the grand scheme of things).

 IN THIS PHOTO: C.W. Stoneking

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

Alicia (my better looking, more intelligent half) and I always try to keep busy one way or another off the road. Sometimes, it’s tracking down weird sh*t for the house, hosting friends and showing them around and, other times, it’s just floating in the creek with a cigar listening to weirdo songs - but usually it’s just brewing beer. We also travel as much as we can, so plotting how to get places takes a huge chunk of our downtime.

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).

If you wanted to ruin everyone’s day, I’d say Loudon Wainwright III - Good Ship Venus but, since I can’t suggest that with a good conscience, I’ll leave you with one of my other favorites: Leonard Cohen - Take This Waltz

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Follow Amigo the Devil

Official:

http://www.amigothedevil.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/AmigoTheDevil

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/amigothedevil/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCU6ZUkK4T75BCWbnr9m0xFA

INTERVIEW: Jaki Nelson

INTERVIEW:

Jaki Nelson

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THERE are few artists who have had such…

an interesting and eventful rise to prominence. I have been speaking with Jaki Nelson about her path to music and her musical origins. She talks with me about her latest cut, Dancing with Strangers, and its story; which albums are most important to her – I ask whether there are tour dates coming up.

Nelson tells me what it was like coming out to her parents whilst on stage; how Nicolette Sheridan has impacted her life; some rising artists we need to get behind – she ends the interview with a cool song selection.

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

My week has been crazy! I played two shows in two different cities this weekend. I had my first major wardrobe malfunction and thank God it wasn't as bad as it could've been. It's been quite the week.

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

(*Awkwardly stands*) Hi, my name is Jaki Nelson and I’m a bisexual top-ten, three-time Billboard Dance music artist.

Dancing with Strangers is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

Dancing with Strangers is the story everyone has been through (or will) at some point. It’s that period after a breakup when you’re still mourning your relationship but you’ve decided to turn that grief into something a lot more fun and a little less healthy - drinking and ‘dancing’ with strangers. It’s an exciting time because the song is #30, and climbing, on the Billboard Dance Club Songs chart.

Might there be more material this or next year? What are you working on right now?

Yeah. I have another couple of singles ready to go but it’s finding the right deal to put them out on. We almost had another song coming out right now but the deal wasn’t right.

Is it true a horse riding accident not only almost ended your life but led you to music?!

This is true. I was a show rider growing up. I was on a horse sometimes up to eight hours on a show day. Then, I had a bad accident: I was training a friend’s horse while she was out of town. To keep the story short, I went a little too hard on this horse and he didn’t like it. I ended up on the ground, world spinning; bleeding from my chin to my waist. The fall had ruptured my spleen, so I ended up having to get it removed.

I was stuck in the hospital barely capable of walking for about a week. Once I got out, I couldn’t run; walk up the stairs or do any physical activity for four months. I had been taking piano and voice lessons on and off for a few years at that point. It was the only thing I actually liked to do that I could still do, so I joined a band.

Nicolette Sheridan, I understand, is your ‘horse mum’. How did you two meet and what advice did she give you?!

I met Nicolette at the barn when I was nine-years-old. Nicolette and I would occasionally go on trail rides around Hidden Hills where the barn was located. That area of Los Angeles has the best trails. For my tenth birthday, I have a very vivid memory of her getting down on one knee with a chocolate cake she had baked for me and she sang Happy Birthday.

Then, she asked me to watch her new show which was airing that night. It was Desperate Housewives. I definitely should not have been watching that show at the age of ten.

I want to ask about the way you came out – on stage with your parents in attendance! Why choose that gig? What was your parents’ reaction?!

My parents don’t come to a lot of my shows. Most of my performances take place around or past midnight and my parents live most of the year in Florida; so they would effectively be staying up until 3 A.M. their time to see me. But, it was the biggest room I had ever played and my mom happened to be in town that night, so she decided to come.

The room happened to also be the biggest gay club night this side of the Mississippi River and artists like Lady Gaga have performed there. I had already recorded and was gearing up to release, Boys X Girls: my coming-out song. It seemed like the best way to do it.

My mom didn’t immediately react. I still don’t know if she knew what I was really saying. I went into the audience after the performance and all she said was “Great job, sweetie! I have a flight in four hours. Have a great night!”

We had a real conversation about it somewhere around a month later. Once we got through sorting out that “No, really; I’m super SUPER-bisexual; this is not just a reaction to that breakup (from Dancing with Strangers)” then she was supe-supportive and excited. Actually, she is also bisexual, so, her actual quote was “You’re just like Mommy!”

Your father toured with The Beach Boys! Has he been instrumental regarding advice and your career choice?

My father toured with The Beach Boys, Tanya Tucker; Leon Russell and many others. He has been a wealth of information for my entire life, from things that I really wanted to know all the way down to the things I definitely didn’t want to hear. He’s a singing drummer, so pitch and timing are VERY important to him (as they should be to any musician.).

For example, he knew that I didn’t want to hear about the timing I was practicing wrong on the piano; so he would casually walk over, turn on the metronome and walk away. As a teenager and a young adult, it’s been nice to always have a knowledgeable resource to turn to for advice on deals and such. I sometimes joke that I was “bred for this”.   

When did music come into your life? Which artists did you follow when you were young?

My earliest memory of having my own obsession with music was when my parents gave me a Walkman for Christmas (for the kids out there, a Walkman is a small mobile device that plays C.D.s). My first memory of having my own taste in music is when I would sneak into my sister's room and steal her copy of Britney Spears’ In the Zone album. I listened to that hundreds of times. I was probably eight.

I believe you went to school with Kylie Jenner! Do you still keep in touch? Did you know then she would become such a success?!

I did. My high-school had 7th and 8th graders on campus with us (terrible idea, by the way.). Kendall and Kylie were in 7th and 8th when I was a sophomore (I think?). We never really talked, but Kendall came to my high-school graduation party.

It was fairly obvious that they were going to do just fine in the world of entertainment. They were already pretty famous in 7th grade and it's not like their family doesn't know what they're doing in that area of things.

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

I hope to be hopping on a bigger artist’s tour - someone who is also working in and around the L.G.B.T. world. That would make my whole year. O.M.G.

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

SAN FRANCISCO PRIDE! I debuted my single, Dancing with Strangers, in front of half a million people, live, and people were so into it.

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

In the Zone - Britney Spears (explained above)

Closer - Josh Groban

I had been assigned to sing You Raise Me Up at my 5th grade graduation. After listening to that 200 times, I decided to listen to the rest of the C.D. A lot of it was in Italian, and it was such an emotional recording. I had no idea what he was talking about, but I learned every word. It was the first time that I realized that I had a musical interest in more than just pop music.

AM - Arctic Monkeys

I literally just realized right now that ‘AM’ stands for ‘Arctic Monkeys’. Anyway, it was the first album I ever heard that was absolutely perfect from top to bottom.

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

I would DIE to go on tour with Hayley Kiyoko…and I think the only stipulation I would include on my rider is that the dressing rooms would have to be smoke-free. I'm severely allergic to cigarette smoke.

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

I just did a whole bunch of them in California. I'll be doing Out on the Mountain on September 14 in Southern California. After that….well, follow me and see.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write music. No one is going to do it for you and, even if they do, it won't be as fun and it won't be as honest. Get to it.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Bobi Andonov

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I just went to this showcase the other day that was absolutely mind-blowing. One that I was not expecting was Bobi Andonov. He's got an upper register that was so surprisingly incredible; it literally made me burst out in a giggle. I don't giggle. Charlotte Lawrence was also amazing. Same with Steph Jones. I left that event SO inspired. That right there is what music is supposed to do.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Charlotte Lawrence

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

I don't really, but I don't mind. Music is now and has always been my life. I got a boombox for my 10th birthday and stuck it in my bathroom, so I could listen to the radio in the shower. It’s still there. I have another boombox in my room. I play Classical piano when I want to unwind. I can't do anything productive without music to keep me focused.

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; if you're up for reliving the worst heartbreak of your life, Water on the Bridge by Chelsea Cutler has been killing me for the last few weeks. If you're looking for something old-school-sexy, Sour Diesel by Zayn. And, if you want to feel great, check out Treat Myself by Meghan Trainor.

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Follow Jaki Nelson

Official:

https://www.jakinelson.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/jakinelsonent

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/JakiNelsonEnt/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jakinelson/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC88qa-3kj1qvCG3qKmTzZ_Q

INTERVIEW: Rändi Fay

INTERVIEW:

Rändi Fay

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IT has been interesting discovering more about Rändi Fay…

and the video for her song, Supernatural. The songwriter talks about her start in music and how she had to give up her career as a veterinarian after a hand injury – Fay tells me about the music scene in Wisconsin and recommends some artists to look out for.

I was keen to know whether there are tour dates coming and what she hopes to achieve before the end of this year; a few records that are important to her; what sort of music she grew up around – Fay ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hi! I’m amazing! I’ve had a great Labor Day weekend. Most of my family was up at my Door County, WI getaway and we did touristy stuff but also we are getting ready for my son’s wedding up in this area in two weeks. I’m also flying high off my release of Supernatural. We have so much to celebrate!

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

I am a vocalist and songwriter from Green Bay, WI (go, Pack, go!). Like most musicians, I have been making music forever but I waited until 2010 to begin my professional music career when an injury forced me to retire early from being a veterinarian. I will try any genre but am known for being a jazzy torch singer live. I have had four nominations for Jazz Artist of the Year in Wisconsin! My writing has really taken off while earning a Master’s certificate in Songwriting (2017) through the Berklee College of Music online program.

I work with amazing instrumentalists, co-writers; teachers and a fantastic producer, stretching my skills and challenging genre. I have recorded six C.D.s that are representative of my development as an artist, from Chill (Red Hot Chili Peppers) covers through jazzy/bluesy originals to my current work in this sort of earthy symphonic Pop. It has been quite a ride!

Supernatural is your new track. What is the story behind the song?

The inspiration behind Supernatural was the age-old controversy regarding what makes music ‘real’. A lot of musicians are down on some of the synthetic sounds used in music today. But, to me, music is what’s in the heart of the creator and in the ear of the listener. It’s music if it connects.

I wanted to write a song that could show this by layering two very ‘natural’ instruments; a bass (upright, fretless and electric) and my voice - and with some cool processing - to create a winding ‘supernatural’ duet. I had a willing player (Timothy Perkins), a willing co-writer; arranger and producer (Aaron Zinsmeister) and we went for it! After coming up with a groove and some basic melodic ideas, the rest was like was like sculpting a rose from buttercream frosting - so sweet!

The lyrics flowed in the same vein, creating a story of the surreal chemistry of love and desire and the intense magic of it when equally matched - like the bass and the voice -; no one-sided idol worship; a 'supernatural' relationship. The magic was key! Aaron and I etched our way through several lyric re-writes and two bouts of a terrible cold while recording on my part, but always coming up with something more precise and on target for the best version of the song!!

What was it like filming the music video? Might we see more material coming up?

Filming the video was a blast! We had a really sweaty day and rain was threatening, but all went as planned! I got up early and ran (Haha - wanting to sweat off a few last-minute pounds, I suppose!) to be ready for call at my home for hair and makeup at 7:30 A.M. We chose a last-minute dress change for Azure Hall (the gorgeous dancer) which producer Jocelyne Berumen had just found and it was brilliant! Honestly, the worst thing was my dress would pick up every drop of sweat or oil and show a mark. I was terrified to touch it.

We took a break in the middle of the day and later met Tim Perkins (the bassist) and Aaron Zinsmeister (co-writer and song producer) at a studio to film the indoor scenes against a ‘cyc’ screen, allowing that cool shadowless effect. We were done by six and eating Mexican food next door to celebrate by 6:30. Jocelyne was amazingly prepared and a complete doll to work with.

More material, coming up? Sure. We are already three songs into a fantastic album to be released next year!

When did music come into your life? Which artists did you follow when you were young?

This question will date me! Music has always been in my life. By four-years-old, I knew every song to Disney’s Mary Poppins. In fact, I thought I WAS Mary Poppins’ saying “spit spot” and rearranging the living room to look like an array of chimneys to Step in Time. I continued to learn every song from the early Disney movie: The Sound of Music to White Christmas to Jesus Christ Superstar.

I also loved the amazing Jazz crooners who were still a part of normal radio and T.V. play, like Frank Sinatra; Rosemary Clooney, Ella and the Rat Pack. I was crazy for A.M. radio (thanks to savvy older sisters!), with the fantastic vibe of the emerging Rock scene - the British Invasion! Herman's Hermits, The Animals; Clapton, The Beatles; The Moody Blues and Dusty Springfield - and that is all before I was ten. Haha. So much intense and creative music!

Is it true you almost became a veterinarian until you hurt your hand?!

I did become a veterinarian and practised for thirteen years until I hurt my hand. Following the first hand injury, I had four additional random injuries to my right hand or arm over the next seven years - yes, #accidentprone. I kept trying to return to veterinary practice then finally got the message! I have am still a klutz but my hands have been injury free since I became a professional musician. Now, my greatest fear has shifted from limb injuries to laryngitis!

Wisconsin is where you are based. Is there a good music scene there at the moment?

The music scene here is mixed. There are fantastic and extremely capable musicians, writers; performers and producers who are based in Northeast Wisconsin. You can make inspired music here. But, the live music scene is a challenge. I think that is true in many places these days. Many venues are not comfortable taking a chance on original music and there are some super, super cover bands around here - so, they seem to prefer the ‘sure thing’. I am just so grateful to those venues that have supported my music and to the fans that have come out to listen and make their efforts pay off!

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

Hmmmm…I am hoping to make good progress on writing my new project, Intuition. This is a studio project I am co-writing with producer Aaron Zinsmeister that is a concept album. The understory is about moving through fear and isolation to a place of courage and love - for your imperfect self and for an imperfect other.

Track titles include Mystified, Uncaged; Serenity, Rise with Me; Lone Wolf, Melancholia and, of course, Intuition. We are going for a ’Symphonic Pop’ sound – Disney-meets-Moody Blues-meets Evanescence; rich melodies and instrumentation, passionate lyrics; earthy grooves. It is a huge project and I love the challenge. I also would love to grow my email list. Please sign on! I can keep you posted on progress!

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

A favorite memory…I have so many of great memories from my involvement in music, some hilarious and some uplifting, as I have such an oddly diverse background. I will narrow the choices to a favorite gig moment...

We were a part of a showcase for nominees of the Wisconsin Area Music Industry’s annual awards: sort of the Wisconsin Grammys; raising funds for kids and music. We had a thirty-minute spot toward the end of the evening and my band just shot on stage and totally rocked. We were so tight. It was great to be playing together, making money for kids and enjoying the evening with others who were celebrating our nominations.

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

Only three? Oh boy. These are today’s choices!

The Beatles - Abbey Road

A miracle of variety, sounds and stories; each so individual and yet so memorable with ambitious instrumentation and that Beatles thread of consistency. You can recognize the fingerprint of each of the guys as they each were ready to take off on their own while working on this one final collaboration without knowing it. NO fear of pleasing their audience with being predicable either. I admire that!

Linda Ronstadt - Simple Dreams

Linda Ronstadt had an amazing voice and an amazing ability to cross genre and do it in a chart-topping fashion. Without me realizing it, I am quite certain she is one of the reasons I have felt it possible to sing in many different styles; to continue to hone different techniques and to believe it is possible to do that. This album pulls songs from Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison; Warren Zevon, Mick Jagger and Keith Richards; a fantastic variety of writers, songs; renditions and a single singer.

Eva Cassidy – Songbird

What a voice Eva Cassidy had - and such a short life! This C.D. is so haunting in that it is so simple, so sincere and so beautiful. Eva Cassidy was a cover artist who she gave her renditions an intimacy that came through in her recordings and transcends her early death. I would have LOVED to see her live, using both pronunciations and meanings of that term.

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

I would have a hard time choosing an artist. I am a huge fan of Classic Rock artist, and most of the musicians I have been passionate about are sort of winding downing doing their own thing. I know a ton of hard-working local and regional musicians who just rock! I love their originality, their musicality and their work ethic. I would love to figure out a way to be sure songwriters get their credits and that live music pays better wages so that all of these incredibly talented struggling artists are supported in the industry!

And, my own rider…being on my own for so long, I can’t imagine anyone ‘taking care’ of me in that way. Hmmm. My dogs backstage would be a blast; Diet Coke and ice; fresh flowers? And no T.V. Take my phone away too! Privacy, a masseuse and a hair and makeup artist? Now, that would be fun!

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

After the release of Supernatural, I have chosen to take a break from live performance. I have been progressively creating music in the studio which I am not able to play live with my existing instrumentation. My band is amazing and we have been doing fantastic acoustic ‘covers’ of my recent work.

But, this new project is completely crazy and I have to get into it completely to be sure it is the best it can be as created in the studio and then figure out how to share my new music live. I will still be doing some feature vocalist work for fundraisers and private events! And there is a side of me that would love to do some cover work - some straight, big band music or maybe Classic Rock? Hah. I still cannot decide on one genre!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Experiment, play; learn, be open to new experiences and constructive criticism of those who are successful in the industry! There is a craft to be honed in creating music and you will find so many ways to better communicate your message. Honestly, never give up learning. Your music will be better for it!

 PHOTO CREDIT: Ali Henderson

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

7000apart, Spencer Jones; Ali Henderson, Caroline Dare and Jackson Mankowski.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Caroline Dare

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

I am a little compulsive, but I do love to chill…sort of intensely! Haha. I run, hike; ski, read; garden, bake; hang with my family; my grandkids, dear friends; my dogs and kitties…

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

The Moody Blues - Nights in White Satin

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Follow Rändi Fay

Official:

http://randifay.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/randifaymusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/randifaymusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdlbOvKMMVJtp3ZQrpfKwww

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6z2K3i2pOzxqutBtq1aJwI

BOTANICAL GARDENS PHOTOS:

CyclopsGirl

INTERVIEW: Coyote Choir

INTERVIEW:

Coyote Choir

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I have been chatting with Coyote Choir…

about their new song, Sing!, and how that came together. The guys tell me about their forthcoming album, Vol. 1, and the sort of things that will be included in terms of themes – they each select a favourite memory from their careers so far.

I ask what sort of music they are inspired by and which albums that would highlight as their favourite/are particularly special; if there are rising artists that we need to check out; whether there are going to be tour dates coming up – they provide some good advice for songwriters coming through.

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

It’s been a good week. We’ve released our first single from our first record called Vol. 1 that will be released in the near future (Nov. 2) and we’re planning for release dates to the concept lyric videos that we’ve been making over the past few weeks. We’ve also been writing new songs.

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

Paul and Jason Watkins. We’re blood brothers from OKC. Mathew Linton, I’m from the Pelican State. Jason plays rhythm acoustic guitar, keys and is the lead vocalist. Paul plays bass, plays keys and sings backing vocals. Mathew plays drums, acoustic guitar and sings backing vocals. We write the songs together and try to keep everything plain and simple during the days of creating. We’re grateful for the opportunity to make music together.

How did Coyote Choir get together? Was it quite a long and tough road to where you are now?

We’ve known each other for roughly fifteen years now. The three of us were involved in different bands and playing music with different people before we started writing for Coyote Choir. We had a season a few years ago where we were writing a lot and Jason and Paul had the idea of giving these songs a home under the roof of a new band project and coming up with a name. Calling the band Coyote Choir presented itself to us one day while listening to a song by Rodney Crowell.

Is there a mantra or mission statement for the band?

We came up with the idea of trying to make something for somebody out there to “keep the heart high”. We started out writing songs imagining them pulling someone out of a tough spot, so to speak, but what was interesting about those first songs we were writing was that they were unveiling a way to help us in our personal lives too. In a strange way, we were being comforted whilst hoping to serve somebody with a song. We also like the idea of helping people to recall the good times they have had, even if they are in a season of blindness. Try to remember.

Sing! Is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

Sing! was one of the first songs we wrote for Vol. 1. We got the idea for the title because we realized that we were drinking a lot of coffee and one particular tea called ‘Sing’ from a company called High Garden in East Nashville. We flirted with the idea of calling a song Sing, but we were also thinking of someone close to us that lost the desire to use their talents/gifts in this particular season.

We liked the idea of someone beginning to open their eyes to the truth about a unique attribute they have and is a special part of who they are. There are things that other people see in you that are beautiful even when you have a hard time believing it. So, we were trying to encourage someone out there to take back the gift that lives inside you because, perhaps, when you use that gift it’s a gift to others too. It’s a new day, sing!

It is from your album, Vol. 1. What are the main themes that inspired the songs?

The theme of Vol. 1 is awaiting a personal resurrection. Not to dwell heavy on suffering, but I think all of us had our own season of uncertainty about our feelings towards music and then, out of nowhere, you feel your heart start to heal and become excited again. We have a common thread in a lot of areas of our friendship and we love making music together but I think what we really love is hoping that the music will work its way in to comfort someone. We’re not interested in making songs that feel confusing and juvenile; it’s really a simple feeling we want to share with people. Loving others and remembering the good that was once had.

Have you all got a standout song from the album? Is there one that you hold dearest to the heart?

I think we enjoyed how every song turned out, in that we’re grateful for them. We probably have different songs speaking on different days but we have a song called Always There which is one that’s been on my mind lately. It’s really a straightforward song about a relationship that seems conflicted for reasons unknown but, even in the midst of separation, they are joined by the thread of love. One person may run and the other stays and waits for their return unconditionally. No grudges. No questions. It’s love taking them back in and love that’s always been there from the beginning.

Do you each remember the artists you followed growing up? Who do you rank as idols?

We share a common appeal towards music. We love all the music our parents and grandparents were listening to but we also try and discover new things as well. We love Elvis Presley, Eagles; Don Williams, ELO; Traveling Wilburys, Phil Collins; Garth Brooks, TRIO; Crocodile Dundee…so many people. It seems like Coyote Choir Vol. 1 is influenced by '70s singer-songwriters; '80s-era Pop music and '90s Country, all stirred in a cast iron pot seasoned with synths and ethereal sound. Through it all, with all the music we love, we’re hoping to not confuse the listener.

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

We’re looking forward to releasing Vol. 1 towards the end of the year (Nov. 2), and we’ll be recording our next batch of songs for the next album in October!

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

Mathew: One of my favorite memories regarding music is I had the opportunity to play the snare drum as a band mascot for Baker High School - beginning in 1991 through the time I started high school there. I am grateful for Ms. Heard, the director, for allowing me to play with the band but also how she showed us her love for symphonic music whenever she had the chance. She expressed a desire for symphonic music that was very moving.

Jason: My favorite memory from my time in music so far is a bittersweet one. Paul and I wrote a song called Boys’ Choir for our band, Clemency. We filmed a concept video for that song and recruited our good friend Kyle Nickel to play the main character. It’s a story of a son’s long journey home, returning to his father. We got to travel for several days with Kyle and our good friend and videographer, Joey Williams, through Oklahoma, Texas; New Mexico, and Colorado. The video turned out better than we could have ever hoped and the trip was one we’ll never forget. Shortly after that, Kyle became sick with a heart condition and passed away. At his funeral, the music video we got to make with him was played. It was heartbreaking and at the same time one of the most rich and meaningful moments I have ever had in music. Our time together, the video; the song, it all came together to celebrate his life in a way we never could have orchestrated. It was the most honored, humbled and proud I have ever felt making music.

Paul:  My wife Abbey and I had come across one of life’s obstacles that caused us a considerable amount of heartache. One that we hadn’t foreseen. We began to grow tired. We tried not to let it get us down but I’m sure that Jason and Mathew could see that we weren’t ourselves. I showed up late to a writing session one day and they played me a song that I knew they had written to us. It is a beautiful song of encouragement and hope that brings warmth every time I hear it. The song is the sixth track on Vol. 1 and is called I’ll Be Waiting Here.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Mathew: I’m not quite sure of the album that means the most to me but George Harrison’s All Things Must Pass has an album tone that can’t really be described. The songwriting; it’s soulful, it has longing and harmonically it’s rich in structure without being overly complicated. It’s an album with so much depth and feeling. I return to it quite often. Beautiful.

Jason: There are several records that mean a lot to me, but the one that stands out the most right now is the new Bon Iver record (22, A Million).  It is beautiful and sweeping, always calming; a soundtrack for life. It really lends itself to reflection and rejuvenation and is perfect for an evening drive. I still love it and can listen to the whole record from beginning to end.

Paul: This seems to be a nearly impossible task but I will go with my instincts. When I read the question, the first album that popped into my head was Bringing Down the Horse by The Wallflowers. It is a record that taught me to love music and song writing. It is one that I will never grow tired of spinning.

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

I think it would be fun to support Fleetwood Mac. Water and Chimes ginger chews sounds good!

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

We don’t have any shows scheduled at the moment and playing live is not out of the question. We’re enjoying living in this ‘creative camp’ that we’ve made for ourselves for this season. We like to stockpile our songs so we never run short. We’re inspired to write and record as much as possible and playing live does appeal to us - but it’s gotta be a specific time for that.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t throw in the towel when you’re down: try and stand up during the count. Honor your parents. Pray.

 IN THIS PHOTO: John Fulbright/PHOTO CREDIT: Vicki Farmer for The Independent

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

John Fullbright from Oklahoma; a band called Caveman from Brooklyn - and the last album that The Barr Brothers released we’ve been listening to.

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

I like to take walks for the state of mind and reading is something that I try and do as much as possible.

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

Mathew: Bob Seger - Against the Wind

Jason: The Barr Brothers - Song That I Heard

Paul:  Rosanne Cash - Seven Year Ache

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Follow Coyote Choir

Official:

https://www.coyotechoir.co/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/coyotechoir/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thecoyotechoir

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/coyotechoir/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/coyotechoir

INTERVIEW: S.K. Wellington

INTERVIEW:

S.K. Wellington

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THE first interview of the week…

is with S.K. Wellington. I have been speaking with her about the new track, Moments Bliss, and what its story is. She reveals what we can expect from her upcoming E.P., Where the Earth Meets the Sea, and what it was like working with so many experienced musicians on the record.

Wellington highlights an artist to watch and tells me her favourite memory of her career so far; which three albums mean the most to her; when music came into her life and took over – she ends the interview by selecting a great cut.

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

Hey! I’m great. My week has actually been awesome. Just coming off of a string of shows in British Columbia to promote the new E.P.

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

I’m a singer/songwriter out of Calgary, AB. I led the band, The Wellington Folk, for about eight years and this year I transformed that band into more of a solo act under the name S.K. Wellington. My style is Indie/Folk/Rock.

 

Moments Bliss is your current single. What is the story behind the song?

I had experienced a real season of creative burnout and decided to take some serious time away from work and music. I spent a couple of months on Salt Spring Island. I was sitting in the public park in Ganges one day just fiddling on my guitar and really taking in my surroundings. I realized, in that moment, how free I felt; how much joy was returning to my soul. Just being present. No deadlines, no writing expectations; no work.

It was a really profound moment for me and the song just sort of started to form over the rest of my time on the island. The lyrics reflect that slow process of letting go of story, pressure and anxiety and just releasing expectation to be present. To me, that feeling of freedom and joy is what is worth fighting for.

It is from the E.P., Where the Earth Meets the Sea. Are there particular themes that inspired the songs?

All of the songs on this E.P. are documenting my experience on Salt Spring - my season of rest and reset. You’ll hear the sweetness of re-finding creative passion and also some of the intensity that came with learning to let go.

I believe there are some great and established musicians on the record. Was it cool working with so many eclectic people on Where the Earth Meets the Sea?

It was an amazing experience. It was the first studio album I’ve ever created with session musicians. Even going to a different city to record was a pretty immersive and new experience for me. It’s such an inspiring and beautiful thing to get people’s musical interpretations of your songs and to hear their signatures become a part of the project’s sound. Above all, though, they were all such great people to work with. Amazing talent; funny and kind to boot. We had a great time (at least I did!).

Do you recall when music came into your life? Which artists did you follow at a young age?

I always grew up around music. My grandma and mother both played the piano so I grew up listening to them play. When I was younger, I had a great Boyz II Men phase and then got really into Punk-Rock for some time. The first time I remember considering songwriting, however, was when I really started listening to some of my mum’s favourite music. I would just sit and intently listen all the way through James Taylor records and Tracy Chapman albums. I spent HOURS listening to Chicago. That’s when music really started to inspire me and become a bit more of an active interest/hobby.

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

I hope to enjoy the process of releasing these songs. They’re really vulnerable and I feel like I just want to enjoy the ride of sharing them with people. Trying to continue on in the actual spirit of the E.P. - no expectations, no stress. 

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

I have a few.

One of my absolute favourite music memories actually dates back to my first Wellington Folk release. I had the privilege of not only sharing the stage with my incredible bandmates, but also getting to play live with some other local talents. It was unreal to be playing my songs and experiencing such a FULL sound onstage. I remember feeling so humbled and in awe of the talent on stage. All playing songs I had written in my bedroom! Also, any recording experience is always a favourite for me

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

Fables - David Ramirez

I had been feeling really stale and uninspired in my listening when I found this album. I was blown away. I fell in love with his writing and style through that album. I don’t think he has one song that I don’t like.

Seeds - Hey Rosetta

I love this record. I was so pumped to discover a band that didn’t follow all of the normal ‘rules’ of music. I found I could relate to that aspect of the writing and really look up to Tim Baker as a writer.

Babel - Mumford & Sons

This was such a refreshing album to encounter when it came out. The strength of the lyrics - and to hear things like the banjo in a fresh way was really exciting.

*Bonus: Continuum - John Mayer. I love the way that guy plays guitar. I also never skip a track on that album, which is rare for me.

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

I’d want to learn to play the drums and support Hey Rosetta. Pretty far-fetched. I’m not a great drummer.

Will there be some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

The E.P. release party is September 20th and then hoping to get East with the music soon as well.

Do you think you’ll come and play in the U.K. at all?

I’d absolutely love to. I have some dear friends from there and there are a lot of artists I love that would be neat to possibly connect with. It probably wouldn’t be until 2019 or 2020.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t feel the need to learn everything the hard way: connecting with some seasoned musicians and industry folks and asking questions can be an incredible resource when you’re just starting out. I’d also say to make sure to take care of yourself so that you continue to have the energy and space for your art.

IN THIS PHOTO: Wallis Bird/PHOTO CREDIT: Jens Oellermann

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I was totally blown away at the Calgary Folk Festival this year by Wallis Bird. She’s definitely not a ‘new artist’, but she’s new to me! Her performance was unreal - her energy, musicianship and presence. I would definitely recommend checking her out.

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

I unwind by listening to music (can that count?); walking, spending time in nature and with my community. I also walk my dog a lot.

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).

Watching from a Distance - David Ramirez

Thanks so much for the opportunity to do this!

S.K.

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Follow S.K. Wellington

Official:

https://www.skwellington.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/skwellingtonmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/SKWellingtune

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/s.k.wellingtonmusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/skwellington

INTERVIEW: Annie Goodchild

INTERVIEW:

Annie Goodchild

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I was determined to squeeze in another interview before next week…

PHOTO CREDIT: Barbara Hess

and speak with Annie Goodchild about her new track, Ether. She talks about the importance of Boston and how the city influences her. I learn how music came into life and the moment she knew this is what she is supposed to be doing. She reveals a few albums that are especially important - I ask what we can expect from her upcoming E.P., Meditative Mouthfuls.

Goodchild looks ahead to gigs and where we can catch her; which musical memory is her favourite; what it is like being on stage connecting with an audience; the rising artists we need to follow – she ends the interview with a great song.

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

Hey. I'm good. Busy in practice, but that’s a good thing.

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

Sure thing. Hi. I’m Annie. I grew up in Boston; been obsessed with sound since I was a kid and would describe myself as a 'fierce dreamer'. Musically, I’ve had a really hard time describing what I make in just a few words - but I've landed on 'American-Roots-meets-Cinematic-Pop'. 

Ether is your current single. Is there a story behind the song?

Ether is the first song I wrote for myself. I’ve talked about this a bit before but I’ve had a close relationship with anxiety and, for a long time, I let my fear dictate what I do and don’t do. Ether is about finding balance in mysel: some kinda of harmony between the part of me that is self-conscious and the part of me that is finally showing up for myself. It’s my own mantra and a reminder of this symmetry at the moment. 

It is from the upcoming E.P., Meditative Mouthfuls. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the music?

For me, inspiration comes from everywhere. There are so many layers to the human psyche and I want my art to reflect that as much as possible. Instrumentally and musically, I really like to play with genre and create an abundance of sound or space in my songs. This has made it hard to categorise, but I can’t think of another way to create that feels right to me. 

During the time, I was writing this E.P., I was doing a lot of meditation and self-reflection about where I’m at and where I want to be as a person. I think the biggest theme of this E.P. is my relationship to fear: fear of letting go of relationships; fear of knowing if I try I could fail and the fear of learning to trust and count on myself.

When did music come into your life? Which artists did you fall for at a young age?

Music has always been a hugely important part of my life. I grew up with a piano in the house and a mom who loved Classical and Jazz music. My childhood was filled with hairbrush microphones, shower acoustics and singing in Gospel choirs around Boston. I’d say my greatest early-age influencers were/are the great female voices: Aretha Franklin, Janis Joplin; Nina Simone, Whitney Houston; Etta James, Billie Holiday; Ella Fitzgerald etc.

PHOTO CREDIT: Barbara Hess

It’s hard to express what these women mean to me. They can take any emotion you’re feeling and turn it into sound. It’s magic. They've all saved me in their own way. Once I became a teen, I was introduced to Classic and Psychedelic Rock, which still influences my writing today: Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin; Queen, The Clash; The Velvet Underground and many more were played on repeat

Do you recall the first time you took to the stage and became a musician? How did that feel?

Ooh, yes I do. I was eighteen, in Antigua Guatemala and I was terrified. Haha. At this point in my life, my anxiety was its own outlawed entity running wild; sabotaging, pillaging and that sort of thing. My friends didn't know I could sing or even wanted to and I don't think my family had heard me sing since I was a small child. Anyways; I was in Cafe No Sè, a tequila/mezcal bar very near and dear to my heart with some friends. There as an open mic happening and we’d just gone to enjoy; absolutely not to perform. It was late (and drinks generous); the house guitar was held up and Mike the greatest bartender asked who's singing next. My friend yelled out “SHE WILL!” and pointed to me. 

At this point, I'm ready to hide under a rock but this small bar encouraged me for the next ten minutes until I edged my way over to the bar stool in the front and said ‘ok’. I remember my hands shaking and staring at the floor. I sang Tracy Chapman’s Give Me One Reason; one of the only songs I knew how to play on guitar then and the whole place fell quiet. I was dying inside. I finished and was afraid to look up...but I got a big applause and the owner came up to me and offered me a weekly gig. I said ‘yes’. I’m forever grateful for that night. 

Boston is where you were born and raised. How important is the city’s music, past and present, to you?

Music is such an important part of a community and I’m really grateful to have grown up in a city that believes this as well. Boston is the home to the Berklee College of Music, the New England Conservatory; Club Passim, the Boston Symphony Orchestra and much more. It’s also one of the oldest cities in America which gives it its own special feel and history. There are great venues around the city. My friends, old bandmates; countless musicians and music students are keeping this scene alive today and fighting for these gems to stay open. So, if you’re visiting Boston go check out some local music and support the scene!

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

I think, what I want to achieve in 2018, will be the same goal for the rest of my life: I want to make music and art that feels honest; that pushes me forward and challenges me. I want to hustle the means to make that art and I want to connect with as many people as possible while doing it.  

PHOTO CREDIT: Barbara Hess

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

I was just talking about this the other day. When I was with my old band, Melou, I was performing at this festival on the North Sea called Oerol. We had played our set and covered Glory Box. I didn't know but the band we opened for, Andre Manuel, was there. Later that night, I was at their show with my bandmate and Andre Manuel and his band started playing a song with a really similar bass line. He saw me sitting in the audience looked at me and sang “I just wanna be a woman” and nodded for me to come up. I froze in place but Max pushed me up and said: “What are you doing?! Get up there!”

I went up locked eyes with Andre and the whole band and I jammed out this weird explosive version of both songs. It was like I had tunnel vision the audience disappeared and, for the first time on a stage, I wasn't afraid: I felt free and trusted in my power. It was a really significant moment for me.

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

That’s a nearly-impossible question for someone as indecisive as myself. So many albums have been the soundtrack to my life at different times but, at least for today, my top-three would be Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon. This was my high-school anthem. During this time, I fell in love; hitchhiked across America and went to Guatemala with a friendly stranger where I started really singing for the first time. 

The second would be Etta James’ At Last!  The album, the women; the voice is everything you could want and not know you needed from an artist. It also has maybe my favourite duet of all time on it (If I Can’t Have You featuring Harvey Fuqua). If you don’t know it, check it out! 

Portishead’s Dummy is coming in at three. Watching Beth Gibbons sing is like being cast under a spell. I think ‘big’ voices were such a big part of my early musical life that I had a lot to learn about subtlety, balance and control - or a controlled lack of control if that makes any sense. There’s something really sexy and truly vulnerable about Portishead but, at the same time, strong. This has also stuck with me in all my writing.

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

I’d LOVE to support so many artists, so I’ll just choose who I’d want to support today. I think Hozier would be a great artist to support or work with. I’ve been on a Folk and Blues-writing kick recently so it’s an exciting idea. If, on this magical day, I was supporting a handful of artists I’d have to add Laura Mvula, Brittany Howard; Robert Plant and the kids, Maggie Rogers and Matthew Herbert. 

If we’re talking hospitality rider, I’ll take all the Mexican food I can get my hands on. 

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

Yes, absolutely! I’m gonna be part of a cool music installation for this year’s Klang Basel on Sept. 14; heading to Bern on Oct 17 for my first E.P. release show. Then, Oct. 19 at Parterre in Basel which will be an amazing night. Feel free to stop by my socials for future gigs etc. I’m putting new ones up all the time.

How important is it being on stage and performing? Is it the place you feel most comfortable? 

Performing live is hugely important to me: to have a real connection to other people and to see the audience connect to the music you make is an incredible feeling. I think there are some artists who are really good at communicating who they are or how they want to be seen through social media. This is not a skill I have mastered yet. Until then, live shows are where it’s at. I feel most comfortable recording in a vocal booth; making all the weird faces I can to create the sound I want. It’s like an isolation tank for me but being on stage feels brave. Being on stage makes me feel awake and alive and terrified and thrilled. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

My advice would be to stay true to who you are and, if you don’t know who you are yet, then be true to your process. Everyone will want something from you; they will want you to have an easier sound to digest (not projecting here at all…); they'll want you to look more like some made-up beauty standard, especially if you're female (seriously not projecting here). They will tell you to jump through certain hoops to get where you want to go. I call bullsh*t on all of this: build your own hoop or star…or multi-dimensional doorway and shimmy through that sh*t.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

And The Kids is one of my favourite new bands. They are the kinda band I want to be best friends with and play with (call me for sleepovers!). Buscabulla are great as well. They are from Puerto Rico and have such a beautiful aesthetic to everything that they do.

IN THIS PHOTO: Buscabulla/PHOTO CREDIT: Franco Frontera

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

Ha. It’s a double-edged sword: I need more breaks from the business side of music. The music itself helps me unwind. On my dream day, I’d be teleported to some beautiful cabin with a view. I’d be alone; there would be a fire and tons of instruments and I could just write.  

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).

Just to full circle it all, I’ll put my favourite Hozier song, Cherry Wine. Thanks! x

___________

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PHOTO CREDIT: Barbara Hess

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