INTERVIEW: Franko Fraize

INTERVIEW:

Franko Fraize

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THE multi-talented Franko Fraize….

has been discussing his upcoming (out on 12th October) E.P., Lights and Colour, and what sort of themes inspired the work. I ask how it feels knowing his music has hit the minds of the public and some big names; which artists he is compelled by – he recommends some rising acts to watch.

Franko Fraize tells me about his tour plans and the albums that are most important to him; how his work has evolved since the start; what advice he would give to artists coming through – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Good as gold. This week’s been the same as most weeks: proper hectic. No complaints, though. If you ain’t busy you ain’t working hard enough

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

My name is Franko Fraize. I’m a rapper from Thetford town. I write raps about the life I see - so it’s all got that socially-conscious-type aspect to it.

 

Lights and Colour is your upcoming E.P. What sort of personal themes and stories inspired the music?

I wanted to put together a body of work that stands the test of time. It’s five-tracks-deep and touches on life aspects such as believing in yourself, relationships; persevering, working hard etc. Musically, it touches on Rap through to Drum ‘n’ Bass. Basically, if you’re a fan of U.K. music you should find something in it.

1Xtra’s DJ Mistajam has backed your music! What is it like having someone like him in your corner?!

That made my day! Things like that are obviously a really good thing for my career but it’s also nice to know you get the backing of people in these positions. It’s nice to know they have heard me and sort of certify what I’m doing. The same with when Wiley tweeted about me. To hear one of your idols give a seal of approval is a big thing.

It seems your music has hit a chord and got into the heart of the public. Looking back at this year so far; did you think it would resonate as hard and instantly?!

To be honest, I made music to resonate and hit home with my hometown - with the people that live the life I live. When it got the praise and respect from them I was over the moon. To then get the ears, attention and praise and respect from the industry it really was the icing on the cake for me.

How do you think you have evolved and grown as an artist since the very start? 

Yes, definitely, but I’d say the core thing of what I’m doing has stayed exactly the same. I grew up being attracted to Rap that had a meaning and that was relatable to me. I always like music that meant something. I’ve always tried to keep this at the core of what I do. Musically, I’ve always tried to rap over anything I enjoy the sound of, so I’ve never really stuck to just one genre. I’d definitely say Rap is the key thing running through it all though.

You are a Norfolk native. Is there an active music scene there? Are there some great artists coming from there?

Yes. There’s definitely a decent scene round here. Drum ‘n’ Bass has always been massive. As for Rap; we have Brotherhood up the road in Ipswich who are massive in the Grime scene. An artist called TLEEVZ was banging it hard for Norwich back in the Channel U era. Mullaly is big in the Soul/Pop world and he’s from Norfolk.

Piers James is a massive Rap talent from Ipswich. As far as the future goes; Maya Law is a massive prospect from Norwich. Oh, and my mate Tone is doing big things too and he’s from my hometown of Thetford.

Who are the artists that inspire you and led you to get into songwriting?

Skinnyman, Macklemore; Wiley, The Streets; Nas and Mac Miller – all these people have influenced me in a way to write Rap music with relatable content. I’ve always followed the U.K. scene very closely and felt all U.K. genres influenced me in terms of the culture. Seeing Drum ‘n’ Bass, Dubstep; Grime, U.K. Rap; they have all been a reflection of what was going on culturally at the time.

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

I hope the E.P. is well-received. My Spotify numbers continue to grow and I see more and more people coming out live to see me rap. The live element is a big one for me. I love performing live so I’m hoping to continue selling more and more tickets and increasing the venue sizes I play.

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

Meeting Mike Skinner…

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

Skinnyman – Council Estate of Mind

This was the blueprint for me.

Dizzee Rascal – Boy in da Corner

This was the first time I heard Rap sounding 100% English

Nas – Illmatic

As an album, it’s nothing short of a masterpiece.

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

I’d probably say Macklemore and the rider would be Malbec and gin and tonic.

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

Yes. Got a few dates ahead of me as it goes. Going out supporting Skinnyman, too, which I’m proper-proud of. The shows we have done so far have been mad.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t expect anything: take everything as a blessing. Show love and appreciation to everyone who shows love. Do you. Make music that’s true to you and don’t let anyone sway your direction. Love what you do and only do it if it makes you happy.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Maya Law/PHOTO CREDIT: @mayalxw

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Maya Law, Snowy Danger; Octavian, Dizzle Ap and Jevon.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Octavian

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

Yeah, plenty. Music, to me, doesn’t really have a certain space or time. It’s a constant thing. Aside from it, I’m enjoying life; got a pukka family. I’m out there trying to make a pound note like most people are.

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).

Mac Miller – 2009

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Follow Franko Fraize 

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/frankofraize

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/frankofraize/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/frankofraize/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/23BefcfpV8aKMGIAkAzPo6

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/frankofraize

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSsI5FsPs7i3zujhNoCpJ5w

PHOTOS:

Lindsay Melbourne  

INTERVIEW: Charlene Soraia

INTERVIEW:

Charlene Soraia

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THANKS to Charlene Soraia for speaking with me….

about her new track, Where’s My Tribe, and the story behind it. I ask her why she recorded the song in her South London flat and what we can expect from her upcoming album – she reveals what sort of music she grew up around and is inspired by.

Soraia tells me about her gig plans and whether she gets time to chill away from music; the advice she would give to artists coming through right now; which albums are most important to her – she ends the interview by selecting a beautiful track.  

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

I’m fine, thank you. My week has been about as good as my week could possibly be, thanks…yours?

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

Sure thing. My name’s Charlene Soraia. I’m English, Italian and Pakistani and I’ve been playing guitar since I was five. I’m self-taught and I like to do weird, fiddly and intricate things on guitar whilst singing melodies with slight abstraction, weird inflections and poetry of the subconscious psyche...

Where’s My Tribe is your new single. Is there a story behind the song?

It comes from a place of longing to belong. Lost. Separate. I don’t intentionally set about writing the music I write - it’s just whatever my subconscious is trying to make sense of at the time. I suppose, musically, I don’t really fit into any scene. I’m not folky enough to be part of the Folk scene; I don’t sing with that Indie vocal sound so I don’t belong there either but I don’t mind. I create because it’s my way of expressing/expelling that which I can’t bring the surface or speak about with normal words!

Is it true you recorded the song alone in your South London flat? Was there a reason behind that?!

I was actually just recording demos for the new album but, when I finally sent them to my label, the head (of my label) said he absolutely loved them and literally mastered the recordings as they were and then pressed them onto vinyl a couple weeks later. It’s my most honest record yet and, for that alone, I love it. It’s raw, real; not over-produced and pretty much untampered.

Half the songs are literally me and a guitar. I’m in front of a microphone at silly o’clock in the morning in my old flat...I tried re-recording a few bits with an actual producer but it lost that bittersweet knife-edge between pain and beauty and I’d rather have all the mistakes and background noises that are ‘incorrect’ than sacrifice the honesty. Someone said they could hear the kids in the school playground behind where I lived on one song - but I haven’t found it yet!

I believe there is an album due next year. What can we expect in terms of the themes and song influences?

The concept of ‘separatism’ and not feeling like you belong is an explored theme, which is ironic considering we’ve never been so connected with each other via technology! It’s been amazing to find out that I’m not the only one that feels this division between us all. There’s one song called The Journey which I wrote and recorded myself when I was seventeen (literally ten years before recording this album) and it’s strange to have finally come full-circle and (accidentally) made an album on my own. Maybe it’s ironic that the song is also called The Journey!?

I realised, whilst making the lyric videos for this album, that I’ve been coming to terms with my human experience for a lot longer than I had realised. So many full circles. I wish I could explain more but, alas, this is neither the time nor place. I’ll save it for another song…

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

I was raised on David Bowie, Bob Marley; The Police, Bob Dylan and Fleetwood Mac. I love them all (Bowie is my Patronus. Hey Potter fans! I’m a Slytherpuff) but I love King Crimson; early Prog-Rock and '60s Psyche music. However, my music isn’t a pastiche of these things at all. As for more modern stuff, I adore Lhasa de Sela; Stina Nordenstam, Daft Punk and everything that The Coral and Unknown Mortal Orchestra have ever released.

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

Happiness…

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

Making my first album, Moonchild, with Paul Stacey was pretty magical. All vintage equipment - and he’s a sh*t-hot musical, guitarist and mastermind!. His brother Jeremy played drums on that record too (and a little on my second album) but he’s now drumming for King Crimson...which obviously makes me fan-girl!

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

David Bowie - Space Odyssey

I always come back to this album. Most of Bowie’s music transports me to other worlds. I wish Letter to Hermione was written about me. So stunning. David Bowie is my saviour.

King Crimson - In the Court of the Crimson King

I was almost going to say Discipline just to be different but how can I compare anything Moonchild and I Talk to the Wind to anything else? The album cover used to frighten the crap out of me as a child but I’ve often found that the things I find most scary end up being the things I love the most in life!

Lhasa de Sela - Lhasa

I believe this was her last album before she died - and I also believe she knew she was dying during this album too. It’s just pure beauty and pain; sadness, realness and honesty…and I love it. I discovered her last Glastonbury when I saw the Russian theatre group BlackSkyWhite perform Lhasa’s song De cara a la pared in their show Llorana in the Astrolabe tent in the Circus field last year and that’s what got me hooked...thank you BlackSkyWhite and 2CB!

But to be honest, the entire back catalogues of all three of these artists are incredible - and most of the artists I mention here!

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

Unknown Mortal Orchestra. Every time they release an album I can’t understand how I can love it more than their last one. I thought II was brilliant; then Multi-Love was pure genius. But, when Sex & Food came out I was travelling to Portugal and I felt like I was listening to a secret the world hadn’t clocked onto yet. I love them/him. Sonically, lyrically…everything. The colours they make; the musicianship. I love how they’ve developed over the years...yeah....I’ll shut up now!

As for a rider; red grapes, please (that’s not a euphemism for wine: I just really like red grapes!).

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

I’m opening for a guy called Benne in Germany in November! I’ll be in Leipzig, Hamburg; Hannover, Köln; München and Berlin. As for the U.K.; I have a few shows coming up in Plymouth, Calstock; Glastonbury and Totnes in October.

Do you get a particular thrill and buzz from performing live? Is the stage where you love being the most?!

I love being on tour. I feel most at home on tour. Having odd gigs here and there makes me really nervous, but I’m very good at travelling and long journeys and, yeah, I’d love to tour more. Please, universe, make it happen!!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The word ‘artist’ is thrown around very loosely these days. Anyone can be an artist, a musician or a producer now - you only need a phone! The selfie generation can edit their own pictures and make H.D. videos with ease. They adopt Googled identities. They don’t need any advice. They’ve got filters and quotes they can retweet for the advice they wish others to believe of them.

I wish I could find self-acceptance with likes and the back-end stats of social media but I just don’t care for the facade of it all. I often tell myself the Internet isn’t a real place. I’d much rather spend my time looking at the stars whilst waiting for a new South Park season!

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Errrrrm...oh, god…new artists...do Blossoms count? They’re new-ish. I found them thanks to The Coral. I’m rubbish with new music. I wish people cared about making entire albums again. I prefer listening to an entire body of work but, sadly, we live in a time where everything is very throwaway. I miss having meaning to things.

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

I’m trying to unwind all the time. I like seeing nature. I like to be still with no noise so I can hear my thoughts. I like long journeys. I’ve been wandering wild and wide-eyed around lots of festivals this year (sadly, not playing them) but it’s nice just ‘to be’ sometimes. I had an incredible time tripping out to Shpongle in the Psychedelic Forest at Boomtown Chapter 11 on some of the best acid I’ve had in many years. The giant-luminous-jellyfish-tentacle-love flashbacks.

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).

Lhasa de Sela - I’m Going In

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Follow Charlene Soraia

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/CharleneSoraia

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CharleneSoraia/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/charlenesoraia/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0qk8MxMzgnfFECvDO3cc0X

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/charlenesoraia

INTERVIEW: Scott Matthew

INTERVIEW:

Scott Matthew

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THE fantastic Scott Matthew talks to me about….

his upcoming Ode to Others Tour (three U.K. dates are announced: 20th November, 2018 (London) - The Islington (first night) (tickets); 21st November, 2018 (Liverpool) - Parr St. Studios (tickets); 22nd November, 2018 (London) - The Islington (second night) (tickets) and how he met the band he plays with – I ask whether his recent album, Ode to Others, feels like a rebirth given its shift in subject matter.

Matthew discusses his upcoming recording plans and life in New York; how he pines for a move to the U.K. soon; the advice he would give to artists emerging – the songwriter recommends some musicians worth keeping our eyes out for.

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

Hi there. I’m doing very well. Glad about the oncoming autumn after a horridly hot summer. Most of my week has been spent embroidering antique handkerchiefs that we sell as merch. on tour. Total granny time. I love it.

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

Well, firstly my name is Scott MATTHEW...NOT Scott Matthews - who is a singer-songwriter from the U.K. (that one ‘s’ makes a big difference!). It’s been a little tricky over the years differentiating the both of us in the press etc.

My music is based mostly in the age-old genre of ballads. Though, some have reviewed it as ‘sad’; I prefer not to use that word. It may be melancholy at times but I have always found beauty in that. The aim is to always consider what is honest and beautiful.

Your Ode to Others Tour sees you travel around Europe. Which places are you most looking forward to visiting?

To be honest, I am most looking forward to being in the U.K. We have two shows in London and one in Liverpool. I am a massive Anglophile and truly love being there. I am staying on after the tour to go to Bath and neighbouring towns for a week. I can't wait.

How did you meet the band you play with? What is it like being on the stage with them?

I have a strong rule that I will only make music with friends. I have known and loved these people for many, many years. We all live around the globe: Sam being in London; Marisol who is now living in Mexico and Gary who lives in N.Y.C. (there is also Juergen who lives in Berlin, but sadly won't be joining us this upcoming tour (but he did produce the last album). It sounds like it may be difficult but we rehearse a few days before touring together and we are ready to go. That is how talented they all are.

Your Ode to Others album is already out. It does not focus on your own love splits and woe. Is that a relief? Does this album seem like a rebirth?!

It was a relief. After many songs and albums dealing with the subject matter of love and loss, I decided I was not so inspired to show that with this album. I was tired of it and I was also aware that my audience may be too. The songs on this album could still be called ‘love songs’ but there is not one that deals with romantic love. Instead, they are dedications to friends, family and places I love.

What comes next in terms of material? Are you already looking ahead to other songs?

Yes. The next album will be all covers. What they are yet I do not know but I loved making the last covers album called Unlearned and playing around with other people’s songs and finding a way to make them my own. It will be a similar process.

Give me a sense of the music you grew up around. Was it quite varied?

I mostly listened to English bands - The Smiths, The Cure; The Jam. Then, in the '90s, I was obsessed with Britpop like Suede and Gene. It seems that all through my adolescents and into adulthood I was into British culture. How I ended up living the last twenty years in N.Y.C. is strange but that may change. I would love to try to make the U.K. my home in the near-future.

Being based in New York; how important is the city’s history, present and people to how you write your own music?

When I first moved here in 1997, I found it very inspiring. There was a fun scene and loads of places to play. I started a band called Elva Snow and even recorded an E.P. with Morrissey's ex-drummer Spencer Cobrin for a while before going solo. The city was more free and easy then with great bands coming out of Brooklyn (more so than now). Also, I have grown older and have different needs. A house in the country is the new goal.

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

I will be content with how this year went having released an album and done two fairly big tours with it. There will be the reward of my favorite time of year in N.Y.C. which is Christmas. Having grown up in Australia, I still am in awe of the N.Y. Christmas akin to the movies we all know. It has such an air of romance here at that time.

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

There have been many but one highlight was in 2009 opening for Anohni (then she was Antony and the Johnsons) at the Montreux Jazz Festival. A beautiful evening where I think we all felt proud being part of it.

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

Do you mean of my albums or in general? My fave I made I think was the latest one, Ode to Others, because it felt fresh having written songs that had different subject matters than what I usually do. I love the arrangements that Juergen Stark worked on. It’s a fulfilling album to digest in my mind anyway.

Then, probably a close second would be the covers album, Unlearned, we made. I think the best-reviewed album was my second album called There Is an Ocean and I have fond memories of making that with my friends in Brooklyn - particularly my friend Mike, who produced it, who sadly has since passed away. Now, I hope you meant from my albums otherwise I just rambled on all self-obsessed. Ha ha.

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

I've had some great experiences opening for people over the years. I mentioned Anohni but also SIA in the U.K. and Cat Power in Italy. All people I am huge fans of. I guess, if I could choose now, I would be up for opening for any of them again.

As far as riders go; all we require is red wine. Simple.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I think the best thing I did was to play out A LOT. I was doing shows all the time before I had the privilege of touring often. It's becoming increasingly hard to earn money through record sales and often touring is where musicians make a living. That and - even though it’s a cliché - be true to who you are as far as what kind of music you make.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Kawakawa (Sam Taylor)

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I have some lovely friends who make music. Sam Taylor, who plays cello with me, has a beautiful musical project called Kawakawa. Also; my good friend in N.Y.C. plays under the name Clint Michigan and he writes lovely, honest songs.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Clint Michigan

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

I embroider (kinda badly, but I enjoy it). I binge-watch T.V. and learn about history; shop for antiques. (I am a granny).

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).

Another friend of mine, Simone White, just released a song that I am in love with called Tiny Drop. I would love more people to hear it

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Follow Scott Matthew

Official:

http://scottmatthewmusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/scottmatthewfriend

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/scottmatthewmusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVvoAvWe40QDe74amIhSgHQ

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/18Xy9oGF9CxiU9luAp3Dzu

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/scottmatthew

PHOTOS OF SCOTT MATTHEW:

Michael Mann 

INTERVIEW: The Herron Brothers

INTERVIEW:

The Herron Brothers

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I have been chatting with The Herron Brothers….

about their forthcoming album, The Last Ones Left, and what themes inspired the record. The guys talk about making music together and which artists they hold dear; whether they each have a favourite album – I ask if there are tour dates coming up.

Paul and Steven share their favourite memories from their careers so far; how they spend time away from music; which artist they’d support if they had the chance – they end the interview by each selecting a great tune.

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

Paul: Busy busy busy: there aren't enough hours in the day to be promoting an album AND trying to dispute parking fines!

Steven: I had the worst hangover I’ve had in many years on Saturday - which meant I was able to watch all three Back to the Future films.

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

Paul: We're the Herron Brothers; originally from North Northumberland but currently in Derby. We make mature(ish) Pop music!

The Last Ones Left is your forthcoming album. What sort of themes compelled the songwriting?

Paul: I had to look at the running order to answer this (smiles). A lot of it is about struggle; whether that's from a health point of view, or career or social justice etc.…just about fighting to get where you need to be. If I had to pin-point one central underlying theme it would be that. Unless you ask me tomorrow and it might be different.

Do you have favourite cuts from the record?

Paul:  Michael Palin springs to mind.

Steven: Michael Palin and California are my faves. They bookend the album very nicely.

When did The Herron Brothers start life and begin playing together?

Paul: Our old band The Sons split about three years ago, so we just carried on after that but on and off, as we're brothers, we've been playing together since our gig at Alnwick Town Football Club back in the '90s!

Do you think there will be more material coming down the line?

Paul: We have plans for a Christmas single which we'll be working on/finishing off after the tour. It was one of the possible tracks for the album, which is going to make a lot more sense as a Chrimbo song! After that, we'd absolutely love to do another album that build upon this one. It really depends how successful this campaign has been as to the position that were in.

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

Paul: Paul Simon, The Beatles; Wet Wet Wet, Crowded House; De La Soul, Blur and Oasis.

Steven: The Bluetones, MC Hammer; Dire Straits and The Sultans of Ping FC.

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

Paul: For, 100%, of our living to be from making our own music. Too much of our lives are being wasted on boring pay-the-bill-scrap and we're 'effin sick of it.

Steven: What he said - and to be able to play The Claw by Jerry Reed all the way through.

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

Paul: The Sons’ farewell gig is one. There was a lot of love in the room it was really emotional.

Steven: Supporting The Bluetones last year was very cool. The best bit wasn’t the gig itself though; it was watching them do Ain’t No Pleasing You by Chas & Dave in the soundcheck. Flippin’ brilliant!

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

Paul: Graceland - Paul Simon

It's why I started doing this.

Steven: One album?! You kidding?! I can think of about nine that are hugely important: Automatic for the People by R.E.M.; Definitely Maybe by Oasis; Love Over Gold and Brothers in Arms by Dire Straits; Spartacus by The Farm; Out of Time by R.E.M….But, for today, I’m gonna go for All the Best by Paul McCartney. It’s a compilation album that’s never been beaten in my opinion. I used to listen to it on-repeat whilst building cars out of Meccano.

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

Paul: Paul McCartney. Because the crowd would be huge. Rider-wise, I'm not bothered really. Just loads of access to nice warm water; maybe some nice fillets of fish - and a bottle of champagne and a decent medium rare steak burger for when we come off! (And some mouthwash...).

Steven: Wilco. Cos they’re awesome. The rider would consist of higher welfare meat, some nice bottles of IPA; Newcastle Brown Ale, champagne; oysters, Monster Munch; chilli pickled eggs (chickled eggs) and any local delicacies. In fact, pretty much anything that can be chucked at us. My favourite type of food is definitely free food.

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

Paul: Check it out…

Steven: Liverpool, Chesham; Tynemouth, Derby; London, Belper; Birmingham, Nottingham; Burton…everybody talk about, mmmmm, Pop music!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Paul: Don't drink.

Steven: Drink lots of water, do vocal warm-ups; do them before every gig. If you want a long career, look after your voice.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Paul: Can't think of any…

Steven: The latest Gorillaz album is amazing, as is Gruff Rhys' latest. Oh, and the latest Django Django one is good as well. Yes, I know they’re not ‘new’ artists but that’s the best you’re gonna get from us! (Smiles).

 IN THIS IMAGE: Gorillaz

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

Paul: I love swimming, walking and films; IPA and physics. I PROMISE I'm not as dull as I sound...

Steven: Gaming. It’s the best value for money of any entertainment medium. Currently playing Far Cry 5 and getting excited for Fallout 76 and Red Dead Redemption 2.

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).

Paul: Freiheit - Keeping the Dream Alive

Steven: The Phoenix Foundation – The Captain

TA!

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Follow The Herron Brothers

Official:

https://theherronbrothers.com/home

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/HerronBrothers/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Herronbrothers

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/theherronbrothers/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSfCe-wXN1ecHn3l5HZWDgw

Bandcamp:

https://theherronbrothers.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Calista from Voice of Aiko

INTERVIEW:

Calista from Voice of Aiko

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IT is not often I get to speak….

with artists who are speaking on behalf of a collective. In this case, Calista Kazuko has been chatting with me about Voice of Aiko and the new track, Prescription Dream. I ask her what Voice of Aiko entails and symbolises - what we can expect from the upcoming film promotion of Prescription Dream.

She discusses why the new single supports several different charities and what comes next; what her personal favourite album is; whether she gets time to unwind away from music; which rising artists we should get involved with; what we can expect from the upcoming album, Empress – Kazuko ends the interview with a great song choice.

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

Hi! Things are FABULOUS, of course. How are you?

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

Sure! My name’s Calista Kazuko I’m a singer/songwriter from London and I’m representing Voice of Aiko today. Voice of Aiko is a new creative collective of musicians, filmmakers; dancers and artists joining forces to campaign for change. An artistic army on a mission!

Can you talk to me about the idea behind ‘Voice of Aiko’ and what it symbolises? How did it come together?

Voice of Aiko was born out of the artists’ shared passion and belief in the power art has to help and heal. Aiko is a family name on my mother’s Japanese side. It can be directly translated as ‘Child of Love’. My dear great Auntie Aiko is in her late-nineties and now in a nursing home in California. This project is dedicated to her and to give her a voice. Our mission is to ‘give the silenced a voice’.

Prescription Dream is released on 28th September. What was it like recording the song?

This song was a total dream to make! I made it in Berlin with the incredible producer musicians Samim, Miguel Toro and Jack Brown as part of a set of five songs (more to come!) We had a totally wild, magical time making it and the music making was totally free and organic: not trying to ‘fit’ in to any mould. It was very special indeed!

I believe it support the charity, MIND. Is its themes of prescription drugs, and the reliance some people have on them, something you felt was under-represented in music?

We are working with charities REST, MIND and APRIL to raise awareness on prescription drugs which can have potential devastating side-effects and cause dependency. In England alone, there are an estimated 1.5 million people suffering from doctor-induced Benzo drug dependency. In 2017, the All Party Parliamentary Group on Drug Dependence (APPG) warned that in England more than 1 million patients are taking dependence-forming drugs unnecessarily. Antidepressants are also a major problem and statistics show that roughly fifty Americans die from prescription painkiller overdoses every day. Stopping medication (even low doses) cold turkey can be dangerous, even fatal.

The figures are scary and often people won’t realise it’s a medication they are taking, or have stopped taking, that is causing physical or mental changes or that they have become dependent on a medication. There are great resources online to find out more at:

www.benzoinfo.com

www.w-bad.org

https://www.april.org.uk/

www.mindincamden.org.uk/resources/articles/minor-tranx

We wanted to address this issue because we feel it’s under-represented not just in music, but in society as a whole. We live in a prescription world and are often quick to medicate perhaps unaware of the potential side-effects and often without exploring other alternatives first. I personally had no idea about the potential dangers of prescription drugs before starting this project so now am able to make more informed, careful choices before popping a pill. If we can get more people talking and thinking like this too, our mission will be complete!

There is a film to accompany its release. What is the story behind it?

The accompanying film is made by amazing filmmaker Enya Belak Gupta. Enya and I met and quickly became friends - she’s a total babe! When I told her about this project she immediately got it and wanted to get involved. Her powerful film beautifully illustrates the feelings of confusion the protagonist is feeling, trapped in her ‘prescription dream’.

We used love hearts to represent this idea of a pill being a ‘quick fix’: this pill will make you feel ‘perfect’; this pill will make you ‘smile’. Having shared several peoples’ stories about their experiences of prescription drug dependency and withdrawal; repeated themes were those of feeling confused, trapped; half-asleep and alone. Enya has done a remarkable job at capturing these stories and it has been an absolute honour to work with her.

The release party for the track/video is on 29th September in Aldgate. If we were to come along; what might we expect in terms of the evening and who will appear?

Expect a night to remember! Voice of Aiko are taking over the amazing Leman Locke hotel in Aldgate for a magical evening of live music, art; dance and discussion. We will open the event with a conversation room with amazing representatives from the partner charities who will be explaining more about prescription drug problems; what we can do to help and answering any questions. This will be followed by a live performance from stunning musical artists Bumi Thomas and Sera EKE.

The CA Contemporary Dance Company led by director Adrian Del Arroyo will be performing a truly unique commissioned piece inspired by the event‘s Prescription Dream theme and the night closes with a very special guest D.J. set, drinks; dancing and delight! 50% of all ticket proceeds will go to REST and APRIL, supporting people with prescription drug dependencies. Tickets available here:

https://www.facebook.com/events/259119054720897/

https://prescriptiondream.eventbrite.co.uk/

Will there be more material coming down the line?

YES! Voice of Aiko are excited to start working on our next project straight away with the aim of releasing in late-January 2019. This project will be focused on refugee and asylum seeker children; drawing a spotlight on the children who were left in Calais after the Jungle was destroyed. We have some truly incredible artists and collaborations lined up, more to be revealed soon!

(Taking off the Voice of Aiko pink wig, this is Calista Kazuko talking now…)

If I was to travel back to your childhood; what sort of music would I find in your collection?

I was literally obsessed with Freddy Mercury - to the point that I would draw on a moustache and wear spanx as a child, sure. Other obsessions included Kate Bush, Supertramp and Nas!

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

By the end of 2018, I will have finished my album, Empress, which is due for release in spring 2019. I am having SUCH a blast making this album with my fave collaborator film composer Guy Dagul. A history of empresses throughout time, this record will be a rollercoaster ride of epic sonic soundscapes! Drawing on my Classical and Jazz training at the Royal Academy of Music, and many musical influences and loves, the album is shaping up to be a total musical melting pot of yumminess!

The album also explores the adversities women have had to endure throughout time and the relationship between powerful women and sexuality. It’s been really fun entering the different worlds of the various fabulous empresses and I can’t wait to finish it and unleash it unto the world! Empress the album is available for pre-order exclusively at PledgeMusic.

I’m also beyond excited to be writing my first musical(!) with phenomenal playwright, fellow Royal Academy of Music graduate and all-round boss lady Stephanie Martin. It’s called Mary Quake and tells the story of a young woman’s inner-turmoil and ultimate self-discovery as she enters the world of British feminism in the 1960s and '70s.

Steph is the most remarkable writer and woman; it’s totally inspirational to work with her. She teaches me so much on creativity, work ethic and just generally being fabulous! We hope to have a first draft complete by end of 2018 and cannot wait to see our baby come to life.

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

Playing Wembley Arena as a teeny-bopper, chart topper (no jokes!)

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

Kate Bush - The Kick Inside

Kate Bush is a goddess - and this album was the soundtrack of my childhood. My dad led the Medici String Quartet and they are playing on this album and on Wuthering Heights. Pretty cool, no?! Kate Bush and this album probably inspired me and shaped me as a young musician the most.

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

Fiona Apple. Everything she wants in the world cause she deserves it!

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

YES! I will be doing a show in late-November at the Century Club in Soho (date T.B.C. v. soon). I also hope to tour the EMPRESS album with my amazing band Fred Claridge and Sam Weston when it is released next spring. Watch this space!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself and know that it’s ok that ‘yourself’ changes all the time. Don’t make music to try and please people: not everyone will love what you do and that’s totes ok. Don’t expect to make millions from your music - you probs won’t.

Prepare for a bohemian life of baked beans and romance. Have a thick skin and an open mind. Figure out what drives you and what you value as success…then reach for the stars, baby!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Sera EKE

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sera EKE - profound, daring; innovative and brave. Sera mixes music, film and dance to create groundbreaking new art.

Bumi Thomas - honest, ethereal; powerful and beautiful. Bumi’s music transcends the physical and touches the soul. She’s a true artist in every sense of the word.

Both these amazing female artists are representing Voice of Aiko and performing at the Prescription Dream Launch Event at Leman Locke on 29th September!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Bumi Thomas/PHOTO CREDIT: @kajagwincinska

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

Netflix and chill, ya dun kno. Escaping to the country with the hubby and leaving all technology in London. FOOD!

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).

Supertramp – The Logical Song

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Follow Calista Kazuko

Official:

https://www.calistakazuko.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CalistaKazuko/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/calistakazuko

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/Calistakazuko/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/calistakazukomusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2FolG4F7PJKFEbG2cJ0Ncq

Follow Voice of Aiko:

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/VoiceofAiko/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/voiceofaiko

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/voiceofaiko/

INTERVIEW: Ghost Caravan

INTERVIEW:

Ghost Caravan

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THE fantastic Ghost Caravan….

has been talking with me about her latest track, Shine On, and what its story is. I ask the songwriter which artists she grew up around and how her work has developed since the start – she recommends a few rising artists we should get behind.

Ghost Caravan selects a few albums that are important to her; what she wants to achieve before the end of the year; whether there is time for her to chill outside of music – she reveals if there will be tour dates coming up.

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Hi, Ghost Caravan. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi! It’s been great. The Toronto International Film Festival just closed in Toronto so that’s been keeping me pretty busy. Between events, playing a gig and seeing films while keeping the rest of my life going, it’s been a whirlwind.

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

I’m Shaina Silver-Baird and I am the lead artist on Ghost Caravan. However, there are a whole group of amazing musicians, producers and songwriters that have all contributed to the project. The Ghost Caravan sound is Orchestral Soultronica. G.C. strikes a fine balance between electronic tracks and live, organic instruments creating a sound that is cinematic and invigorating. Think Electronic-Pop with a soulful vibe.

Shine On is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

Shine On is an explosion of self-celebration. What started as a break up song became an upbeat, feelgood discovery of what it means to truly let your light shine against all odds. Shine On is the re-birth after loss; the dance party in your underwear; the uncontrollable laughter with friends. It’s a call to action. As it says in the lyrics: “Keep yourself moving into the sound, shine on!”

How do you think your work has developed since you started out? As a songwriter; are you always searching for fresh inspiration and adding new elements into your work?

When I started the project, I was so focused on being dark, showing my heartbreak and pain in order to be a ‘real artist’. But, I started to realize we don’t actually need more of that in the world. We need to be uplifted. We need to be able to access our murky depths, but we don’t need to stew in them. I want to empower people. I want to make them dance and make them smile.

So, my music is still about those dark places, but I focus on finding the light in them and celebrating the magic in the world. I’m focused not on the moment of despair, but the moment right after; the realization of your own strength and beauty and ability to move forward. Loving when it is hard… that’s heroic. That’s what I want to represent in my music.

What sort of sounds did you grow up around? When did music come into your life?

My parents loved music, so music was always playing when I was growing up. We listened to a lot of Jazz, Blues; Soul, Pop and Traditional Folk music from the Balkans (my parents taught traditional Balkan Folk Dance…talk about niche!), which I think is where my love for unusual rhythms comes from. Generally, if music makes me feel something or if it makes me want to dance, I love it.

Might we see more material next year at some point?

Yes! The next single and music video, Damn You, will be out by the end of September and the full eight-song E.P. will be available soon after. It’ll also be available on limited edition vinyl at the album release party in Toronto on Oct. 6 (or if you live abroad we can ship it to you!)

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

I want thousands of people across the globe to be listening to the songs on the T.O. Confidential E.P. I am so proud of this album and all the work my whole team has put into it and I want as many people to hear it as possible. The response to Shine On has been so positive and so many people have told me the song just makes them feel good. I hope the rest of the songs have the same effect.

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

What comes to mind is not a specific memory, but a specific moment that occurs whenever I’m co-writing a song. It’s that moment when you first hear the full thing all the way through - once you’ve finished writing the lyrics and the skeleton of the instrumentation is there and you can HEAR that it’s going to be great. I’m in love with hearing that potential and imagining where a song can go.

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

The answer to this question changes depending on the year and what I’m going through. But, right now:

Fleetwood Mac - Rumours

It’s classic. It’s amazing. The end.

Bishop Briggs - Church of Scars

This was the soundtrack to my life this year. So much soul. If this album were a colour it would be deep, deep purple and I want to dive into it.

Janelle Monáe - Dirty Computer

Because it is unabashedly female, feminist and it celebrates female sexuality from a female, not a male, perspective. Beyond being catchy as hell, I think it’s a really important album.

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

There will be some more coming up but, right now, we’re prepping for the Vinyl Release Show in Toronto on Saturday Oct. 6 at The Supermarket.

Do you think you’ll come to the U.K. and play at some point?

Yes! It’s definitely a goal.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Create your own opportunities. If you’re writing and singing and playing all the time, even if it’s open mics and small time gigs, eventually you’ll grow and someone will hear you. Get out and play in front of people as much as possible.

 IN THIS PHOTO: MIRIAN

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

MIRIAN – she’s an amazing R&B singer who I sang with in my Folk band for five years and she’s doing some very cool stuff.

Laura Tremblay – also a Toronto staple I’ve played with a bunch. Super-fun, soulful Folk/Rock.

Grand Analog – amazing live Hip-Hop. Odario Williams guests on my next single, Damn You, and he is one of the most engaging live performers I’ve ever seen.

Hill Kourkoutis – she’s a producer working with some of the best in Toronto. She produced Shine On and she’s fire. Look out for anything she’s had a hand in.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Laura Tremblay

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

This summer, getting out of the city to a cottage or the wilderness has been key for me…that and reading. I’ve rediscovered the library this year and I pretty much always have a book on the go. I love losing myself in stories. I was an only child so books are my happy place.

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).

Body by MIRIAN

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Follow Ghost Caravan

Official:

https://www.ghostcaravan.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ghostcaravan/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ghostcaravan

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/ghostcaravan/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/ghostcaravan

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLSMFYO583O9gOwFYwmKOcQ

INTERVIEW: Marlon Chaplin

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Greggain

Marlon Chaplin

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IT has been great speaking with Marlon Chaplin…

ARTWORK: Karly McCloskey/PHOTO: Michael Greggain and Marlon Chaplin/CONCEPT: Marlon Chaplin

about his debut album, The Circle. He talks with me about the album’s themes and whether Toronto and its people/sensations feed into The Circle; when music came into his life – Chaplin recommends some rising artists we should be aware of.

I ask the Canadian musician whether there are tour dates coming and if he has favoured memories from his career so far; what he does to unwind away from music; the three albums that mean the most to him; what he hopes to accomplish before the close of the year – Chaplin chooses a rare gem to end the interview with.

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

It’s a bit of a whirlwind right now. I’m still coming down off a wonderful C.D. release party - packed house, one of Toronto’s finest venues (The Piston). It was a real raver. Two nights ago I shot part of a new music video for one of the album’s songs; I’m in the process of working on a concept for another and just got through booking a slew of new dates with my management. 

So, when I catch my breath, I’ll let you know.

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

Hi world. I’m Marlon Chaplin. I’m a musician, songwriter and producer from Toronto currently in the process of rolling out the album I have a sneaking suspicion we’re about to talk about…

The Circle is your debut album. What are the main themes that define the album?

It’s a piece that deals with ideas of a cyclical nature. It’s life, death and everything in between. I don’t feel a lot of things are black-and-white and a lot of looking at life and your surroundings comes down to perspective: one man’s trash etc. That kind of thing. From the album art, to the lyrics and music itself there’s a healthy amount of Easter eggs for those that want to go digging.

What has it been like recording the songs? Is it cool to be releasing through Möbius Recordings?

The recording process was a fruitful one. Eric Duquette, who plays guitar on the record, recommended the studio/engineer. We cut the bed tracks at Lincoln County Social Club with John Dinsmore in four days as a five piece having rehearsed it for months. Later, horns, strings and various other overdubs were added. It eventually made its way into the hands of Chris Shaw, who’s done brilliant work with Weezer and Bob Dylan. The making of this album was, overall, a carnival of delight.

The record simply wouldn’t exist without Möbius Recordings, so I think the gravitas speaks for itself. 

PHOTO CREDIT: JP Kelly

There are personal offerings on the album but I feel the sights and sounds of Toronto, in a way, play a role. How important is the city to you?

Hmm, that’s interesting. I’d be interested to know in what sense you got that impression. You’re right. There are nods here and there, mainly in the artwork but I’ve lived here my whole life so whatever the sound of Toronto is - and that’s impossible to pin down - I’m sure it bleeds through in some way. 

I’ve never been that songwriter that name-checks locations and whatnot. Some of my favourite songwriters are, but it’s just never come naturally to me. So, my roots/heritage probably leak through more conceptually.

When did music come into your life? Which artists did you obsess over?

Music came into my life, basically, from day one. I remember being very small and wondering who exactly Jo Jo was and what a loner is. The full-on obsession started with The Who. That was my scour-the-earth-for-original-magazines-cut-out-the-pictures-of-Townshend-mid-leap-and-plaster-them-on-my-wall fixation. My influences run the gamut though. Since my teens, it’s been a case of if it moves me then it stays. Genre doesn’t matter to me one iota. 

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

I want this record to reach a lot of ears because it deserves it. It’s my personal best and it’s what’s needed at the moment. Alternative, Rock; Pop - whatever you want to call it - needs a jolt of electricity and realness and, above all, songwriting. There are a million bands that look the part, sound the part but don’t have the tunes. The tunes are here. It's the recipe for longevity. By the end of this year, I want to turn on as many people as possible. 

It’s always getting a little bigger each day which is much, much better than the other way around. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Raquel Simoes

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

Impossible to pin one down. In many ways, I feel like I’m still just beginning. But, for today? My first club gig ever. The Rockit (long-since gone). That first hit, you know? It’s always the most powerful. You always remember your first time. 

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

‘The White Album’ (The Beatles) – The Beatles

Because it told me you can do anything.

Another Side of Bob Dylan – Bob Dylan

Because it told me you can say anything.

Songs for the Deaf – Queens of the Stone Age

Because it told me you can be beautiful and brutal at the same time. 

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

Mai Tais. Hyperbolic chamber; Wayne Newton. 

PHOTO CREDIT: JP Kelly

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

All Ontario dates until November at the moment. Oct. 5th, we’re at the Atria in Oshawa; Oct. 6th at the Foxx in Barrie; Oct. 12th at The Brownstone in Orillia and then it’s homecoming at the Horseshoe on Nov. 21st. 

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

It’s hugely important. It’s one of the places I feel most comfortable - that and the studio. My goal in all of this is basic at the end of the day: make people feel how my favourite artists make me feel when I listen to their records and see them live, which is the highest high.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

That would depend on what this hypothetical artist wants. Some people just want to make music for their cat. Some want to be Lady Gaga. It’s all good. Just keep your aim true and remember that critics, parents; teachers, whoever are just people with opinions. 

IN THIS PHOTO: THE NAIVE

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

You might catch me on a couple technicalities if we’re talkin’ new. But, relatively unknown? THE NAIVE, Jerry Leger and Ada Dahli.

IN THIS PHOTO: Ada Dahli/PHOTO CREDIT: Gárate Photography

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

The short answer is ‘no’, I don’t get much time away from music. I can’t afford any time away from it. I’m not cut from the 9-to-5er cloth: I don’t work for the weekend. I don’t save up for a vacation in Punta Cana or wherever. It’s just not in my blood. I just make music. 

I saw 2001: A Space Odyssey last night at something called the Cinesphere on 70mm. That unwound me. 

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

Yes. No Man’s Land by Syd Barret. It’s a murky, dirty and twisted little dirge I just adore

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Follow Marlon Chaplin

PHOTO CREDIT: JP Kelly

Official:

https://www.marlonchaplin.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MarlonChaplinOfficial/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MarlonChaplin

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/marlonchaplinofficial

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7I5zKzb0emNyEMEC82i6qU

Bandcamp:

https://marlonchaplin.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjsiBsUq2j3owFKugImtr5A

INTERVIEW: Tiger Mimic

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Jo Martin-Kelly/JMK Productions

Tiger Mimic

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I have had fun chatting with Bram and Jess of Tiger Mimic….

who have been discussing their upcoming work, Elephant Skeleton EP. With tracks Don’t Cover Up My Eyes and Elephant Skeleton out; the guys chat about their creations and what they want to achieve going forward – I ask how they got together and whether there are any gigs due.

Bram and Jess talk about their favourite memories from their careers to date and how they unwind away from music; how that special chemistry comes together; which rising artists we need to get behind – they each select a great song to end things with.

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

Bram: Hi, Sam! Doing well, thanks. It's been a good week. We just rolled out our first music video on Friday, which is also my first animation project since I was a kid, so it's been nice to have some new stuff to share. 

Jess: Hey, hey! Doing great, thanks. It’s been a busy week, but the good kind of busy! Didn’t sleep much last night because my heater decided to make the craziest sounds at 4 A.M. - but it’s nice and sunny today, so can’t complain!

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

Bram: Sure! I'm Bram, originally from the States and I play guitar and sing for Tiger Mimic.

Jess: Woot woot! I’m Jess. I sing and play the synth. We’re an Indie-Rock band based in London and the other two members are Ben on bass and George on drums…but they couldn’t be here today.

How did Tiger Mimic get together? Is there a story behind that name, too?!

Bram: I had been writing and performing for a solo project I had going in N.Y.C. when I met Jess and she had her own thing too. Except for a couple joke songs in school, I had never really had any luck writing with other people, so I was surprised to find that co-writing came very naturally with her. After I discovered the joy of co-writing, I basically just dropped the solo stuff. Completely.

Jess: Ha, well. it just sort of happened. We met and started hanging out and, one day, Bram picked up his guitar and started noodling and I just started singing. It started that day and never stopped. Finding a name wasn’t easy at all - I’m sure other bands understand the struggle! A tiger mimic is a butterfly that has evolved to look like a poisonous butterfly (although, it isn’t) so that predators leave it alone. Also, I’m slightly obsessed with my cat (like full-on-crazy-cat-lady-obsessed) and he’s a little tiger mimic. 

You have an E.P. coming out next year. What can you reveal about the songs included and themes addressed?

Bram: There are five songs on the E.P., two of which have been released so far: Don't Cover Up My Eyes and Elephant Skeleton. The other three are titled I Took Off My Body, Salt Woman and In the Distance. Thematically, we have pretty different writing styles. The two songs on the E.P. that I wrote the verses for, Elephant Skeleton and Salt Woman, address very simple, personal things in indirect ways. Sort of bittersweet themes of transition and change just attacked from different angles; a garden falling into neglect or someone just carried away on the wind. There are a lot of nature elements in my writing. 

Jess: Like Bram said, there are five songs and In the Distance, which is the last song on the E.P., is the slowest, moodiest and saddest one - and perhaps my favourite one to sing. In the Distance, Don’t Cover Up My Eyes and I Took Off My Body were started as complete improvisations. Bram started Elephant Skeleton and Salt Woman and I liked them so much I wanted in on them, so I wrote the choruses.

I think people will be able to tell who wrote what at some point! I make up a story in my head and then write from the perspective of a character in the story. My songs may sound very personal, but they aren’t. Bram is a much more poetic writer than I am.

You have already released the singles, Don’t Cover Up My Eyes and Elephant Skeleton. How has the reaction been so far? What is it about those songs that marked them out as early singles?

Jess: Don't Cover Up My Eyes has been out for a couple months now and people have been really supportive. It’s been really nice getting people’s feedback and encouraging words, especially when they’re strangers. We like the way the song starts with just bass and voice and then builds up. We have so much fun playing it we just thought it could be a good introduction to our style. 

Bram: Elephant Skeleton is pretty fresh out the door, but the initial reaction has been good so far and we've been hearing positive things about the video, which is really nice. It's hard to predict whether an 8-bit adventure story about an elephant losing his bones will resonate with your audience but some people have already told us that they're expecting a sequel now, so that's nice to hear. That song always felt like a good mix of what defines Tiger Mimic's sound for me: trading vocal parts, harmonies; narrative lyrics and a lot of different layers as the song progresses.

PHOTO CREDIT: Jo Martin-Kelly/JMK Productions

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

Bram: The first records that I would seek out were Beatles records - Magical Mystery Tour was the first non-children's record I really got into. My dad had a lot of really great '60s/'70s vinyls: Hendrix, Doors; Neil Young, Joni Mitchell; Leonard Cohen, Zeppelin - so those were all in heavy rotation when I was growing up. When I branched out on my own, I got into a lot of different things, though. My first concert was Nine Inch Nails, but my second was probably something like Weezer, so I was all over the place. 

Jess: Oh man, I think I liked a little bit of everything. My family and I moved so much when I was a kid that it kind of depended on the countries we were in. In Lebanon, the only music playing on T.V. and on the radio was basically either Arabic music, which I disliked as a kid, or basically just the ‘hit’ Pop songs. There wasn’t much else, really.

My dad had Classical music albums and my mom loved The Beatles so I listened to those quite a bit. I loved discovering new music. I remember, sometimes, we’d buy something from the store and it came with an included C.D. and I just couldn’t wait to listen to it. When we moved to France, my first album was a Bob Marley C.D. and my favourite band for many years was Nirvana.

PHOTO CREDIT: Luis Guillén

There more are and more mixed-gender/unisex bands coming through. I think you get more depth than an all-male band. Do you think having Jess in the band, and providing a female perspective, gives you extra contours and layers?!

Bram: I can say, for me, the music immediately got a lot more interesting when I started writing with Jess. I enjoyed the stuff I did before but there was something homogenous about it, like something was missing. She has a completely different approach to melodies and writing lyrics and it really brings a different energy to the songs.

Elephant Skeleton is a good example of a song where I had a melody and a couple verses and no idea where to go. Jess just immediately had this great melody and that totally made the song for me. Apart from gender differences, though, she also grew up in different places in Europe; lived around different cultures, speaks more than one language and I’m from a little rural town in the U.S. in a state that is known for having a lot of rocks (seriously) - so our perspectives come from almost cartoonishly different sources. 

Jess: Aw. I wouldn’t dream of being in a different band. I love playing with those guys so much and initially I was hoping there could be another female band member so we could be two girls and two guys. But, we all clicked immediately and I love the way it turned out!

PHOTO CREDIT: Jo Martin-Kelly/JMK Productions

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

Bram: We're pretty new in town, so I think getting out on stage as much as possible and putting on some good shows is the best thing we can do in terms of building an audience right now. We'd also love to connect with other like-minded bands around town who might want to join forces for some cool showcases.   

Jess: Yes!

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

Bram: A lot of my music career has been really D.I.Y.; recording in friend’s closets and things like that, so getting into a real studio this year was pretty much fulfilling a lifelong dream for me. Working with an awesome band, an awesome producer and just spending twelve hours a day in a windowless room working on music, it was really incredible.

Jess: I share that same memory. It was really even better than what I had hoped for and imagined. Another favourite memory of mine is several years ago when I was living in N.Y.C. I posted a song on Facebook and sort of forgot about it. Then, a couple of years later, I saw my friend Pauline who lived in Europe and she started singing my song. I realised she knew the lyrics. It made me really happy. I sang the song at our first show in London and she was dancing and mouthing the chorus with me. 

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

Bram: Oof, tough. Maybe a tossup between Songs of Love And Hate by Leonard Cohen or Zuma by Neil Young

Both have really strong childhood memories attached to them; hearing my dad singing around the house - and then later playing them together when I learned how to play guitar too. 

Jess: Blue by Joni Mitchell

I’m most comfortable when I sing high so, whenever I wanted to cover a song, I had to change the key. I grew up thinking ‘Oh great, I’ll just have to sing Opera I guess (which I did for a while) because I can’t sing any Rock or Pop songs; my voice is just too high’. Then, I discovered Blue and, for once, I was so comfortable singing someone else’s songs, it was in my range! That album helped me not give up wanting to be a singer: it made me feel more comfortable with my voice. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Jo Martin-Kelly/JMK Productions

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

Bram: Tom Waits, I think. He's such a distinctive artist and I think a tour with him would be a completely unique experience. He always seems to pick these really atmospheric, classic venues too which I find appealing. Almost all of the most memorable shows I saw in N.Y.C. were at places like The Apollo or The Beacon. it really feels like an experience in those smaller venues. 

As for a rider...I can probably only think of food things. In a perfect world, there would be amazing Thai or Mexican food along the whole trip. If someone really twisted my arm I could drum up a few other demands, but I'll never be the 'no brown M&Ms' kind of guy. 

Jess: I’d love to open for Björk. She’s awesome. When we eventually go on tour, all I’ll really need is a daily shower. Actually, being the only girl on a tour bus, I’ll especially wish for a daily shower for each of the guys. 

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

Bram: We'd love to get a tour lined up but, right now, we're just focusing on London. We're pretty new in town, so we're still getting our name out there; trying to connect with other bands, meeting promoters etc…so that's going to be our focus for the time being. Next show, though, is on September 26th at the Dublin Castle in Camden, we'll be playing at 8:30 that night. 

Jess: Yay. Hope some of you guys can make it that night! We’ll be announcing some other show dates soon too. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Bram: Just figure out what makes you different and use it. There are a lot of bands doing the same thing really well but I’d rather hear someone who is a little rough around the edges and trying something new. That’s what moves music forward for me. 

Jess: Do not compare yourself to anyone else. You are who you are and you do what you do. And, be patient: it really takes time to build a loyal fanbase. A lot of new singers that pop up and are immediately extremely famous have a whole P.R. team; managers and a label that is investing a lot of money in them and, of course, that’s really great for them! But, if you’re D.I.Y. then it will take time and it’s okay that it takes time.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Saltwater Sun/PHOTO CREDIT: Rosie Mackay

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Bram: I've been enjoying Saltwater Sun from Reading. They're on tour right now and will be in town the night after our gig, so I'm hoping to make it to that. I don't know how long they've been around exactly but there's also this London band, Weird Milk. I've only heard a few songs so far but they're doing some really interesting work.

Jess: Yeah, cool bands. I like what I’ve heard from Shanghai Blues and the London band Oshens have some really nice songs also! 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Shanghai Blues/PHOTO CREDIT: Ant Adams Photo 

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

Bram: There's a lot of Sci-Fi love in the band, so we've done a few movie marathons together at our flat. The Alien series; Predator, things like that. I also read quite a bit, paint a little and just wandering around getting to know London has been great. I was in N.Y.C. for fourteen years so it's fun having a new city to explore. 

Jess: I cuddle my cat; I like to draw; I hang out with family and friends. I love watching movies, so that’s definitely my go-to unwinding thing. The film marathons with the band are great – we watch too many movies, eat too much food and then we lay on the couch like beached whales and complain that we ate too much and, also, when’s the next film marathon? It’s all very, very sexy and Rock’n’Roll. 

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).

Bram: Oh. I’ve been loving what Elza Soares has done with her last couple album. Her song, Banho, is so rad. That’s my pick

Jess: Angel Olsen - Shut Up Kiss Me! Love that song

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Follow Tiger Mimic

PHOTO CREDIT: Luis Guillén

Official:

https://www.tigermimic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/tigermimicband/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/BitcrushedT

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/tiger.mimic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/tigermimic/tracks

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7qT0D9stk05ym53ziRGwzg

INTERVIEW: Future Jr.

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Jackson Todd

Future Jr.

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I been speaking with Future Jr.…

about his new track, Forget About Me, and what its story is. The Brisbane-born artist discusses his start in music and what he grew up listening to; whether there are going to be plans and tour dates coming up – he recommends a rising artist to watch.

I ask which albums are most important to him and why he decided to move to Austria; which artist he would support if he had the chance; whether he gets time to chill away from music – Future Jr. ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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Hi, Future Jr. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey! I’m doing really good thanks! How are you guys? 

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

Of course! My name is Matt. I’m twenty-four-years-old, from Brisbane, Australia and I make music under the name Future Jr. 

What is the story behind the new single, Forget About Me? Was it exciting hearing it premiered on Zane Lowe’s Beats 1 show?!

It’s really just a little glimpse into my life. I recently had a period of my life where I had (wrongly) convinced myself I had to choose between my dreams of success and love. I’m a really driven person and it’s not often that you find yourself surrounded by people who understand that drive and the sacrifices that you have to make in music. So, it’s really just an open letter; a P.S.A. to say ‘I hope you know what you’re signing up for’. 

You were born in Brisbane and raised around music. How important was your family home regarding your choice of career?

It’s been super-important for me. I grew up in a really creative household. From a very young age, in order to keep me and my siblings entertained, my mum would gather us together and play some simple chords on guitar and encourage us to write our own songs and melodies to match the chords. It was little things like that - it happened all the time. I was lucky enough to have parents that encouraged me to chase what I was passionate about.

Which artists struck your ear at a young age?

I probably had less of the typical music education than most kids. I never really remember listening to the radio very much as a kid. I grew up in church, so Gospel and inspirational Pop artists like Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith were always playing in the background. The first C.D. that I bought myself though was a Hip-Hop group called DC Talk. I latched onto it, because they used these huge, loud drums samples typical of '90s Hip-Hop. It was the first album I just absolutely rinsed. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Jackson Todd

How important was it moving to Vienna and spending time there? Was it an eye-opening move for you?

I think, without me knowing, it was super-foundational. My whole family moved over when I was seven. It gave me a taste for adventure. I grew up in an environment where my whole family were experiencing new things together. It’s also a city that’s drenched with so much quiet beauty and history - the birthplace of some incredibly important historical musical figures, like Mozart for example.

It’s a city that understands art and encourages the pursuit of it. Looking back, it was invaluable. Vienna never yells at you like a city such as New York would. It just quietly whispers and encourages you to create something. I think that’s the part of Vienna that will always stick with me.

Might we see more material next year at some point?

DEFINITELY. Lots of it. 

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

I’m actually about to head off on a big trip to L.A., N.Y.C. and London for a few months. It’s going to be a lot of songwriting and making art! I’m just so excited to start creating the next era of Future Jr. and write the next part of the story. 

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

I remember when I got the final masters back for my first E.P. It was late, I had just got back to my car after getting dinner with some friends and the email came through. I immediately plugged in my phone and sat there listening. It was the most surreal experience for me. Sitting there in an empty carpark, I was listening to the soundtracks of one of the worst years of life. After I finished listening, I sat there in silence for a bit then finally drove out of the carpark. It was one of the most still and quiet moments of my life. I left all the troubles of that year in that carpark. 

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

Bon Iver - Bon Iver

I had discovered Bon Iver in my last year of high-school - and the year after he dropped Bon Iver. It was the soundtrack to my coming-of-age and continued to be a pillar for years to come. The themes in that album about finding your identity had a huge impact on me. 

Phoenix - Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix

This was the soundtrack of high-school for me. This was the album my friends and I would blast with the windows down on our way to the beach. I still remember hanging out with window of my friend’s beat-up Ford Lazer screaming out the lyrics to Lisztomania as loud as I could.

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

Haha, oh man! That’s a huge question. Right now, I would say probably someone like Lorde. I love what she’s doing and what she’s done from day one. She creates this music that’s authentic and uniquely her but still has these anthemic Pop hooks. I feel like the crowds there would also probably be willing to have more of a heartfelt experience at those shows. In saying that, maybe a bit of a guilty pleasure; supporting someone like Bieber would be pretty amazing as well. Haha.

I don’t even know what I’d ask for my rider. Haha! I’m not the most extravagant kind of person. I’d be content if there was just fresh pizza every night of tour. 

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

There are some tasty things in the pipeline at the moment. It’s a bit of a surprise. I guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Figure out early why you want success. Figure out why you’re making music. If you’re in this game for riches and fame then you’re in the wrong biz, kid. Fall in love with creating art for the sake of creating art, not for the sake of making money. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: No Mono

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Wow, that’s so hard. There’s so many at the moment! My top new recommendation would be No Mono. They’re some local lads from Australia. They’re creating some incredibly intricate and soulful music. Picture James Blake crossed with Jamie xx.

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

I love the beach. It’s my way to switch off my brain; lying in the sand with the only sound being the waves crashing. That is my sweet-spot. It also always fills up my inspiration tank. If I’m ever feeling dry, I always head to the beach. 

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’ve been slamming this track since it dropped. Some serious early-2000s R&B/Pop vibes: Girls Don’t Cry (ft. Maribelle) - Young Franco

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Follow Future Jr.

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/futurejr/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/futurejr_

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/futurejr_/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6VcDfoZ0pgSOd5rtQDmbo0

INTERVIEW: At Pavillon

INTERVIEW:

At Pavillon

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THE Austrian band At Pavillon…

have been discussing their new single, Lions, and what we can expect from them going forward. The band reveal how they got together and what sort of music they are inspired by; an album each that means a lot to them – I ask whether there are any tour dates coming up.

The guys talk about the scene in Austria and when music came into their lives; if they have favourite memories from music; what they want to achieve by the end of the year – they pick a great song to end the interview with.

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

Very exciting. The last couple of weeks, we have focused on the international release of our energy-boosting single, Lions. The reactions so far have been great!

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

We are an Indie-Rock/Pop quartet based in Vienna, Austria. Tobi (Bass) and Paul (Drums) are our rhythm section - they keep the whole thing together. Berni (Lead Guitar) and Mwita (Guitar and Singing) represent the melody and entertainment section.

 

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

There are those moments in life where we do not truly believe in ourselves. In such moments, it’s easy to follow empty promises of success but, in the end, you are caught by the power and will of everyone else but you. But, if we are aware of our inner-lion, we can achieve something great!

Lions EP is upcoming. Are there particular themes that inspire the work?

To us, diaspora artists like Freddy Mercury or Bob Marley are really inspiring as they had to face lots of challenges based on their social, ethnical; cultural or migrational backgrounds. To us, they are lions or, as Freddie Mercury would have called it: We Are the Champions!

How did At Pavillon get together? When did you start playing together?

Mwita and Berni have already been friends since their high-school years. They decided to play together when Berni was proving to Mwita that he could play the Harry Potter theme with his guitar on the back which, indeed, is astonishing! It took up until 2014 when Paul and Tobi joined. Paul was pretty shy and introverted at the beginning but, when he was playing during the rehearsal breaks, we knew what he was capable of.

Tobi came into rehearsal room as a Jazz guitar player who wanted to play bass as a musical compensation. Turned out that he is as phenomenal on the bass as he is on the guitar. With Berni’s sense for melodies and Mwita’s incredible voice, we knew we could write some good music. But, most important for us, was the fact that we felt like brothers from the moment we met!

You are based out of Austria. Is there a strong music scene there right now?

Definitely! Especially in the recent years, the scene got way more professional which is also appreciated by the international music business and media. From our perspective, we are really happy to see that more and more guitar-based bands make their way onto the global market!

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

For Tobi, by the time he was in kindergarten, he was listening to his father’s old records: Led Zeppelin, Cream; The Monkees, Jefferson Airplane; The Beach Boys, The Animals, etc. This music fascinated and shapes him to this day. Berni started playing guitar at fifteen because he was obligated to do so in school. When he bought his first classical guitar, he just got addicted and couldn’t stop playing for himself at home. Paul, like Tobi, grew up on the record collection of his parents. It was (especially) Jimi Hendrix and his father’s hairstyle that got him closer to Rock music. The decision to study an instrument was done with the help of his parents, as his childhood wish was simply to play music on a stage.

Music arrived in Mwita’s life when he first started covering songs with his friends and they made up their own stories to existing songs. This was also the time when they went busking on streets. He is inspired by Benjamin Clementine - because he is one of the few who writes their music in an unconventional lyrical and musical way. This helps him to rethink his own songwriting.

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

We hope that our upcoming album, Believe Us, enables us to play our first world tour!

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

Well. There is this one memory that is quite important for all of us. At the very beginning, we were invited to play at a small festival in Italy. After an eight-hour drive, we arrived there and suddenly it started raining pretty heavily. So, when we entered the stage, there was literally no-one upfront. We looked at each other and decided to play this show as if it was our last. After a few minutes more, more people started to come closer to the stage despite the heavy rain!

At the end of our set, there was indeed a crowd who were applauding. Since this moment, we have decided to play every show as if it was our last! Because, if you believe in yourself and give everything, then you will be rewarded!

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

Mwita: Tokio Hotel – Schrei

I was fourteen when I bought this album. I could totally relate music and lyrics-wise to their music. This was my theme for a year. This album gave me strength, hope and energy at times where I felt down.

Paul: By the Way by Red Hot Chili Peppers

I was around twelve when it got released and my understanding of Rock music was still based on my parents’ vinyl collection. So, in 2002, I was at a drum weekend workshop which was in a really beautiful castle. While I was making my way through these huge corridors, I suddenly heard this crazy beat. I was following the rhythm and found myself in front of a drummer who was in his mid-twenties.

I was asking him which beat he was playing and he told me it was (the one of) By the Way by the R.H.C.P.  As soon as I was home I went to the record store; I bought the album and couldn’t stop listening to it up until today. It was my entrance into Rock music - and I am so grateful for that.

Tobi: In fact, it was a ‘best of’ album from Led Zeppelin

Because of Jimmy Page, I wanted to learn to play electric guitar. Later; John Paul Jones taught me bass. I was totally thrilled by these musicians.

Berni: One of the most inspiring albums I ever heard is the album In the Woods from Francis International Airport

I love every track because it’s extremely atmospheric and dynamic. I still get many ideas for At Pavillon’s riffs and sounds from this record.

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

Mwita would love to support Phoenix. Ideally, we would be allowed to use this huge mirror they were touring with in 2017!

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

Our next show will be on Wednesday, 19th September at Reeperbahn Festival, Hamburg. The venue is called Indra. It is the first place The Beatles ever played in Hamburg.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Believe in yourself and love what you do. If you don’t do it, nobody will! 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Parcels

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Parcels, LISS; Lo Moon; Her, Leyya…

 IN THIS PHOTO: Lo Moon

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

If there is any ‘off-time’, then we love to meet friends that we haven’t seen for a long time, go out for dinner; read a good book or convince our parents being a musician doesn’t imply we are junkies (smiles).

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).

Her - 5 minutes

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Follow At Pavillon

Official:

http://www.atpavillon.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/atpavillon/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/At_Pavillon

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/atpavillon

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/AtPavillon 

INTERVIEW: Ishani

INTERVIEW:

Ishani

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I have been speaking with Ishani…

about her latest single, Dark Angel, and its very personal story. She reveals why she wrote the song and what comes next for her; when music arrived in her life; the artists that are inspiring to her – Ishani chooses three albums that are especially important.

I ask her what advice she would give to artists coming through and whether she gets time to chill away from music; what she wants to achieve before the year is through – she ends the interview by selecting a rather emotional song.

__________

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

Thanks, man. It’s been pretty chaotic. I’m working in a studio in Brighton so lots of travelling back and forth to London. Hope you’re well too!

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

Hi! I’m Ishani. I’m a third-culture kid who is now based in East London. I’m a singer-songwriter who produces moody, down-tempo tracks with Trip-Hop and Alt-Pop influences. My latest songs are socially aware offerings dealing with mental health and the human condition.

Dark Angel is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

Dark Angel was my response to the deaths of two my friends to suicide. It combines sadness and anger woven together in a world that has been turned upside down.

It is designed to highlight Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Why did you decide to look at suicide and raise awareness in that area?

Too many idols - Chester Bennington, Chris Cornell; Avicii, Kate Spade and Anthony Bourdain to name a few - have left us recently. It seems to be getting worse and worse and mental-health is so important. I wrote this song as an empath, because reading about so many successful, talented people taking their own lives affects me. I take all this negativity and turn it into something productive like a song. It helps me cope and understand.

Your music is getting stronger and more confident. Do you feel like you are growing as an artist?

Thank you so much! Yes, I definitely feel I’m maturing with my sound. In fact, I can’t wait for you to hear my next release. Working with Zaflon on these tracks has helped me to become more confident. He believes in my work and my sound and is an incredibly talented producer!

Might we expect material next year such as an E.P.?

My first E.P., Stormy Emotions, is coming this winter. I’m also working on a top-secret project on the side that I can’t wait to tell you about. Hopefully, I will be able to announce it soon!

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

I’m deeply influenced by artists such as Massive Attack, Portishead; Morcheeba and Hooverphonic. When I was young, I listened to Michael Jackson all day and all night! I like that his music had social messages and I like to bring that element into my music too. Eminem helped me get through my teen years and I listened to a lot of Alternative-Rock and Pop too. Growing up in India in the '90s, I’m also influenced by the Indian Pop music I listened to on the radio.

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

My main goal is to release my E.P., Stormy Emotions, and its title-track with a really cool music video that I am currently editing! I work with a great director, with an amazing eye, so I think it’s going to awesome.

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

I think watching my first music video on T.V. was the biggest rush ever! I couldn’t believe my eyes! It was a dream come true.

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

Garbage - Garbage

Because it was a present from my dad and he thought it would be funny to give me a C.D. that had Stupid Girl on the cover (ha ha). I actually fell in love with the band and still love them!

DJ Shadow - Endtroducing…..

One of my favourite DJ Shadow albums. I was so happy watching him live last October at the Roundhouse on the twentieth anniversary of the album.

Portishead – Dummy

This Portishead album introduced me to Trip-Hop, which has been my main musical crush to this day and still inspires the music I make. It is just the perfect album and feels completely timeless.

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

Kindness, A.K.A Adam Bainbridge. Lately, he’s been doing some soul-searching about his identity and being half-Indian. I watched a seminar he did recently talking about gender and identity in music and would be cool to work on some stuff with him!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep putting new stuff out there. Make music that you like and not what you think other people will like. Hang out with people who nourish your soul. Enjoy the process. Push yourself and get out of your comfort zone. Don’t let social media bring you down and don’t compare your art to others. Support your favourite artists too. And always keep believing in yourself.

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

They say if you do something you love you'll never work a day in your life - it’s more like you never stop working in my case! I do find the time to do some yoga and chill. I love living in London. There is so much to do and see. I love getting out to exhibitions and shows or sitting in a dark cinema and losing myself in a movie.

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).

We lost a great soul last week - Mac Miller. I’d like to listen to Best Day Ever (bonus track version; I prefer it way more than the original). R.I.P. Mac. Gone too soon. Thank you so much! I really enjoyed this interview…

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Follow Ishani

Official:

http://www.ishanimusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ishanichakra/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ishanichakra

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/ishanichakra

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/ishanichakra/videos

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.

__________

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