INTERVIEW: Nikki Hayes

INTERVIEW:

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Nikki Hayes

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THE fabulous Nikki Hayes…

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has been talking with me about her new single, Move, and what the story behind the track is. I ask whether there is more material coming and what compelled Hayes to move from Chicago to Arizona – she highlights some rising artists to look out for.

Hayes tells me how she got into music and which artists are important to her; if there are any gigs coming up; a few albums that are important to her – she ends the interview by choosing a great track.

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

Hi. I’m great and my week has been great as well. Any new day to wake up is already a blessing.

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

Well. I’m Nikki Hayes. I’m an R&B singer-songwriter. The music can tell you more about me than I can without giving too much.

Move is your new release. What is the story behind the track?

The story behind Move is really about being so drawn or intrigued by someone but not really knowing how to act on it or how to go about it because of fears or uncertainty - which was something that I had a habit of doing at the time.

Will there be more material coming next year do you think?

Yes. There will definitely be more material next year. I still have more songs to release and I’m always writing.

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Who do you rank as music idols and inspirations? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

I did grow up on a lot of music. My parents played a lot of music from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Chaka Khan, Anita Baker; Toni Braxton, Al Jarreau; Sade, Whitney; Aretha and many others as well as music from the ’90s/’00s that my sisters and I grew up on; just very iconic and distinct voices which was definitely an influence.

Do you think there was a moment you got into music? Were others saying you needed to perform or was it the artists you grew up around that helped you make that decision?

I would say a little bit of both.

The artists I grew up listening to were influences but what also played a role was watching my older sisters sing. They have beautiful voices and are naturally gifted in vocals. I would hear them sing and want to join them but I could not sing at all so they wouldn’t let me. I was so determined that I would go in basement and sing all day until it didn’t sound so bad.

What promoted your move from Chicago to Arizona? Is there a big shift in terms of music scenes and flavours?

The fact that Arizona is so close to Los Angeles promoted the move with my family. It has been an adjustment…however; things are moving along. I’ll be performing at the Mesa Music Festival in November and I can’t wait to have more shows here as well as other places.

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

Just to have more people listen, feel and relate to the music in some way and, really, that’s my overall goal. If I know that what I love the most can make people feel something, help someone through something or gives listeners an escape, then I’m happy because making the music did just that for me.

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

You know; I used to look at specific things from my time in music as favorites but now not so much. Each thing I do in music has been a time of growth and I feel the euphoria each time I do something in music - whether it’s going to the studio, writing a song; finding a funky chord, exercising my vocals or studying the music industry.

Each thing I do is for growth and beneficial to me as an artist and it’s a good and memorable feeling every time. One unforgettable moment in music was performing at The Wire in Berwyn, hosted by IllaNoize. The love and energy from the crowd as well as well as the energy from the dancers was magical.

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

Ooooh; that’s hard, I can’t choose that but I can choose albums that I really enjoy and stand timeless to me.

For All We Know by NAO

The reason is for the lyrics, production; the emotion she pours from her voice into the song as well as the harmonies. I can listen to that album all the way through without skipping every time and also learn something new about each song, whether it was an instrument or a vocal inflection that I didn’t know was present before.

Dangerously in Love by Beyoncé

It is an album that is very nostalgic album for me. It is another album that I can listen to the whole way through. Each song from the album made me feel and do a lot of things: dance; cry, ‘think’ I’m in love at eight-years-old. But, the beauty of hearing things that young was that I could relate to them on other levels when I got older. I grew up on the album and I still grow with that album.

19 by Adele

Which, I believe, was Adele’s first album. The first song I heard by Adele was from that album and actually ended up being my first YouTube video. There was a lot of raw and organic sounds vocally and instrumentally. Another one that I can feel the emotion oozing from her in each song.

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

There are so many to choose from. There are many talented R&B artists out right now: NAO, H.E.R.; SZA, Brent Faiyaz; Daniel Caesar…the list goes on but, really, I’d love to support talented artists that I can learn from as far as the art of touring goes: work ethic on tour, vocal care on tour; maintenance internally and externally when on the road.

If I can just have some tea with honey and lemon; room temperature water and some food when I’m done performing then I’m happy.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Get to know who you are as a person and that will bleed on to you as an artist. Understand that you will and have to grow as person as you go through life, thus as an artist. Keep those cores of who you are and have comfort in that so that no one takes advantage or tries to change you…but always grow.

Do you have tour dates coming up? Where can we catch you play?

My nearest show as the Mesa Music Festival in November in Downtown Mesa, Arizona. I will share more details soon!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: H.E.R/PHOTO CREDIT: Highsnobiety/Juan Veloz

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Some newer artists that I’m listening to right now are the artists I mentioned above: NAO, H.E.R.; Brent Faiyaz and Daniel Caesar. Also Nikki Hayes; you can download her music on Spotify and all other streaming platforms…

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Daniel Caesar/PHOTO CREDIT: Keavan J. Yazdani 

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

Not really. Honestly, when I’m not working on music; listening to music is a time of unwinding and an escape for me. I go out with my family and loved ones but focus should always be about the music and how I can grow in that.

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

Rather Be – H.E.R.

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Follow Nikki Hayes

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INTERVIEW: Stephen Martines

INTERVIEW:

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Stephen Martines

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THIS week ends with me…

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speaking with Stephen Martines about his new track, Sounds Like Whiskey, and what its tale is. The songwriter/actor discusses his path into music and how personal/family events impacted his decisions and dreams – Martines recommends an artist we should all be aware of and get behind.

Martines reveals a few albums that are special to him and the music he grew up around; why he spent time in the Royal Air Force; whether he will come to the U.K. very soon – he ends the interview by selecting a song I have not heard before.

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

Hi, there! First off, thank you for taking an interest in my music; this has been a long-awaited journey and I’m thrilled to be able to reach out to your readers. I’m doing quite well, thanks for asking. My week has been great thus far: we’re amping-up rehearsals – adding another guitar player, Tom Bramer from Radio Iodine, to the touring band – as well as preparing the video for Sounds Like Whiskey and pressing forward on readying our next single for release. A lot going on!

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

Absolutely! I’m Stephen Martines, a native of St. Louis, Missouri. Some may know me from television, some may not. Either way, I’m incredibly grateful for those who have been supportive and continue to do so. For those who are new to my journey, welcome! I’m humbled to share my passion with you. Me in a nutshell: daddy, singer; songwriter, actor and soccer player. 

My music can best be described as ‘Country infused with Soul and Pop undertones’. That said; I’ve just scratched the surface of the sound I hope to incorporate. The beauty of today’s Country music is that it has room for multiple genre infusions, keeping things interesting and alive.

Sounds Like Whiskey is your latest song. Is there a story behind it?

There’s a story behind most every song you hear, wouldn’t you say? Although I didn’t co-write S.L.W., I sure wish I had been part of that process. My dear friend Vinny Hickerson (Trailer Choir) presented it to me a little while back and I’m honored to have the opportunity to cut it and release it as a single. The lyrical content alone grabbed my soul and pulled me in from the moment I heard it. 

It’s Country fused with Pop undertones and speaks to so many peoples experience with a fractured relationship, where one person’s heart just isn’t ready to let go. Country music more often than not hits you right in the gut; Sounds Like Whiskey carries with it the vapors of a painful breakup that still echo within me today. The song was written by Vinny Hickerson, Jay Brunswick and Josh Dunne and produced by Chuck Bonano, Johnny Scott and myself.

You were born in St. Louis but moved around a lot as a child. How did this lack of stability affect you at that age?

Yes. My childhood wasn’t the best, to say the least. My mother had her struggles raising two young kids and bouncing between separated homes was difficult in itself. Thankfully, soccer and music became my outlet. My escape. My passion. There weren’t many times I was without a ball at my feet or music filling the room. The instability, although hard, carried with it the impetus to dream – and dream big - regardless of whether those dreams were attainable. They were sometimes the basis of my existence.

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You joined the Air Force after your father died. Was that career choice a way of easing the pain of loss? When did you move into music?

After my father died, at a fairly critical age for me, I became pretty despondent and that led me on a quest for something to fill that void. Along the way, I dropped out of college and ended up joining the Air Force after a knee injury marginalized a professional soccer career. After leaving the Air Force I found myself adrift again and, a couple of days after Christmas in the late-'90s, while watching Jimmy Stewart’s moving performance in the bridge scene in It’s a Wonderful Life I had some sort of revelation and made the decision right then-and-there to pursue a dream I’d always harbored: acting. Nine hours later my car was packed and I headed west, not knowing a soul at that far end of the country.

I then ended up sleeping behind a dumpster after my car was taken (a not-unheard-of occurrence for those who pursue acting!). But, providence shined on me a few weeks later when I met an agent and began auditioning. I booked my first two auditions out of the gate and so began my acting career and eventually my pursuit towards many other dreams I’ve had and still have - most especially a career in Country music.

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

I grew up listening to multiple genres of music. In my family, Sinatra, Dean Martin; Ray Charles, anything Motown and Elvis (whom my daughter is named after) were hugely influential. Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash; Willie Nelson and George Strait - to name a few Country influences. But, growing up in the '80s happened to be a great time for music, in my view. From old school Hip-Hop to Rock to Pop…you name it, we had it. Then came this guy named Garth and it was all over – life took on a whole new perspective.

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

I have set some pretty high goals for this year, reality dictating, that many may not be reached. That said; lofty aspirations keep people driven, focused and determined, right? My main goal is to land solidly on mainstream radio and begin touring by the end of the year. 

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

Although I’m in the early stages of my music career, I have some great memories already - including playing the CMA Fan Festival for the past two years. Country music fans are awesome! But, I would say my best moment thus far would be hitting #16 this past week on The Iceman’s New Country Artist chart, which is a pretty significant step for us. 

Watching Sounds Like Whiskey climb the chart week-after-week has been a thriller. It is indicative of our hard work paying off. More so, Country fans have welcomed my music and for that I am truly grateful.

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

First and foremost; Michael Jackson’s Bad

Need I say more?

Second...Hootie & the Blowfish - Cracked Rear View

Aside from selling over twelve-million copies and becoming a staple for my generation, it quickly became my ‘car-radio-blaring-with-the-top-down-‘go-to’ album. Darius Rucker’s voice and authentic Pop-Rock sound captivated me. I have many memories attached that record. 

Third...Prince & the Revolution – Purple Rain

 This man! The creative genius. The fearlessness. Mind-blowing.

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

Wow - great question! I am not certain I could pick only one. I love all genres of music and have been inspired by artists and musicians both past and present of whom I’m a fan. In thinking about this; one artist enters my head and seems to push aside the next, and so on. Almost impossible for me to answer!

Regarding a rider, aside from the basic requests, I’d love to be able to require a stage layout that provides a greater experience for fans - one that allows for engaging with the audience on a more personal or intimate level. Oh - and Red Vines licorice! That’s a must. So: a massive, U-shaped stage that encircles the entire audience and red licorice. I think that’s reasonable.

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

Yes . We’ve been added to the Country Smooth Festival lineup in New Orleans on October 20th and 21st, which will be a blast! And, Red Rose Records is currently working on tour dates that will be announced in the near-future. I definitely have the itch to get out there regularly and perform.

Do you feel you might come to the U.K. at some point?

I have never been but have always wanted to cross the pond! Say the word and we are there!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Simple: NEVER GIVE UP! Be persistent. Believe in yourself. Trust your talent and work your ass off, regardless of the let-downs and rejections. All that happens for a reason and serves to hone your craft.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Vinny Hickerson

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

No - just me! (Okay; I’m kidding.) I would definitely recommend catching my dear buddy Vinny Hickerson’s debut solo E.P. when it comes out. The guy is a great songwriter and a great musician – he was one of the writers of Sounds Like Whiskey.

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

‘Chill’. What does that word mean? Ha! These days, there isn’t much time to chill. Being a dad to a four-year-old takes precedence over all else, certainly over any spare moments I might have – and all other ‘non-daughter-directed time’ is given to pressing forward on the music front.

I do attempt to unwind, however. That consists of snuggling up to my little girl on the couch, enjoying some ice cream or a Popsicle (her favorite) and watching any inane T.V. show or movie that she wants. So, essentially unwinding per her dictates. And, I play soccer whenever the opportunity arises. Other than that, I’m pretty much a homebody.

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).

Given this opportunity, I’d like to wish upon your readers a song that I can listen to anywhere, any situation and it seems to fit: Chris Stapleton’s awesome Broken Halos. Will that work? And thanks again for your interest in me and my music - we hope to see y’all out there in the audience someday soon!

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Follow Stephen Martines

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INTERVIEW: Deliah

INTERVIEW:

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Deliah

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I have been spending time with Alex of Deliah…

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as he discusses the band’s new single, Infinite. The song is part of a trilogy so I find out what comes next and what the concept is; how the band got together and what sort of music they all grew up around – Alex recommends some approaching artists to investigate.

I ask whether we might see Deliah hit the road and whether they each have a favourite album; whether we can catch them perform at some point soon – they each end the interview with great song selections.

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

Alex: We’re good, thanks. It’s a pretty busy period at the moment, as you can imagine, but that’s how we like it.

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

We are a four-piece band from Liverpool but based in London, fronted by Michelle. We fuse our three biggest influences into our music; them being a Neo-Soul-style sound with more cinematic, soundscape elements and heavier, more Rock-influenced guitars and drums.

The whole sound is quite hard to pin down but I think that captures it quite well. We’ve been spending 2018 putting together a visual trilogy called The Mind’s Eye that focuses on telling a story about the struggles of creativity and mental-health; the parts that you might not often see.

 

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

Infinite is the second single from the trilogy and this one focuses on the idea of honing a craft and the paradox of that; the struggle, and at time ugliness, of having to break through various barriers to ultimately create something beautiful. And, for many of us, that strive for a certain level of ability or success may never come. You may never be satisfied or even create your “thing of beauty”. We did this in the lyrics through all the paradoxes mentioned but in the video through having a dancer attempting to fly.

Are you already looking ahead to more material? What sure you working on?

Absolutely. The final instalment of the trilogy will drop before the end of the year, which we’re really excited about, as the video was one of the biggest tasks we’ve ever taken on. But, we’re looking at a new trilogy for 2019, possibly two, as this really gives our creativity a focus. Hopefully, a short movie will be possible too.

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How did Deliah get together? When did the band start life?

The band started off as a duo, Michelle and I (guitarist, Alex), with session musicians taking over on drums, bass and keys. But, after playing with George (drums) and Tee (Bass/Synth) we all decided to make it a band, as that was how we were working anyway. It was a natural progression, especially as we started writing in the rehearsal room and integrating technology to take over what a fifth member would have been doing.

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

For me, you get a strange mash-up of Metal, Hip-Hop and E.L.O. Sounds very odd but when you lay out some of the elements, especially the more cinematic side of E.L.O., it does make sense. For Michelle, you would definitely find a lot of Fleetwood Mac and Pink Floyd – which, obviously, makes a lot of sense.

Shell would probably cross-over with Tee when it comes to '90s R&B, but Tee would listen to a lot of Gospel music too. George would definitely cross over with me a lot more, especially when it comes to Metal and Hip-Hop.

It seems like eclectic sounds and multiple genres run through your music. Do you think this wide and adventurous approach to music is what stands your songs out?

I’m not sure about ‘stand out’ but I think it helps define us. I know a lot of bands or artists find it hard to pin themselves down to one genre and that someone on the outside could easily categorise them but, in our experiences, they can’t. We like that - it’s something that we don’t do on purpose, nor is it something that we are going to rigidly abide by but the ambiguity of our sound is what makes it so fun for us to work on.

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

At the start of the year, we said that just getting the trilogy out would be our achievement of the year. And, even though we’ve been lucky enough to play some amazing festivals and shows as well as grow the band in the right direction, just getting the final chapter out will be our biggest achievement of the year.

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

Supporting Maverick Sabre was pretty amazing, as was playing with GoGo Penguin. Live is really important to us. Sounds super-cheesy, but probably working on this trilogy has been my favourite thing we’ve done so far.

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

For me, it’s Rage against the Machine’s debut album (Rage Against the Machine). Shell’s is easily Tango in the Night (Fleetwood Mac). Tee would say Speakerboxxx/The Love Below by OutKast and George, Nirvana’s In Utero, for sure.

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

Alive today…that’s a tricky one. I’d probably say Florence + the Machine. Not just because she’s huge, but because she is a massive influence on Michelle and has fans that would probably appreciate our sound too.

As far as rider goes, we’d have as much Nut Butter and Biscoff Spread as humanly possible…maybe a bath of it.

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

We’re supporting Demons of Ruby Mae at The Black Heart in Camden on 4th October and we’re in plans for a couple of small tours, but we’re not allowed to say anything just yet or jinx them! Head to our socials to keep up to date with that…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do what you want to do. If you want to create abstract, avant-garde art then do it and own it. If you want to be a Pop princess then own that too. Too many people do what other people want them to do in order to ‘succeed’ and everyone has an opinion on what you should and shouldn’t do. Sometimes you should listen to them but, ultimately, it’s down to you.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Little Grace/PHOTO CREDIT: Robert Mulder

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Little Grace are three mates of ours from Liverpool who are just simply quality. Dark Rooms, an American band that have been a big influence of mine, who share that ambiguity in sound and another friend of ours, XamVolo - he’s doing big things and in a really interesting way.

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IN THIS PHOTO: XamVolo/PHOTO CREDIT: Robin Clewley 

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

Films, football and food...or, maybe, for Shell it’s sketching, F1 and…still probably films.

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

Shell is going for Every Valley by Public Service Broadcasting

Tee is going for Evergreen by YEBBA

George is going for Higher Ground by Little Grace

I’ll go for I Get Overwhelmed by Dark Rooms. Thanks for having us; enjoy the tunes!

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Follow Deliah

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INTERVIEW: Alex Lleo

INTERVIEW:

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Alex Lleo

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THE terrific Alex Lleo has been chatting with me…

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about his single, Long Shot, and filming its incredible video. I ask about the song and its story and whether more material will come down the line. He talks about his musical upbringing, influences and what plans he has in regards gigs.

Lleo reveals a rising artist to watch and an album that means a lot to him; how he spends time away from music; what advice he would give to artists coming through right now – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Morning! I’m great thanks! It’s been good. Helping my bro record his first E.P. Exciting stuff!

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

Sure. I’m Alex. I write songs from my garden shed and sing them to the world (smiles).

Long Shot is your new track. What can you say about the track’s creation and story?

Well. It’s a groove-laden slow-jam! The song was inspired by the love of chance encounters. Meeting someone for the first time; not really knowing if you’ll meet again but finding joy in the simple moments.

What was it like shooting the video in Càdiz? Why choose that location?

Cadiz is, by far, one of the most beautiful cities on the planet. We had the pleasure of staying in the old town which is drenched in history and culture. Once I’d established the idea of shooting a couple longboarding, I began the hunt to find the guys that would fit the image I had in mind. I had visions of a Californian sunset. I really wanted that lazy, chilled vibe. That's when I found Chano online and I took the gamble to reach out to him. It turned out to be one of the best things I’ve ever done!

Being born and raised in Cadiz, Chano knew every sweet spot in a fifty-mile radius and the moment I pitched the idea he was so on-board with the vision. My aim was to use longboarding as a form of expression; allowing a sense of freedom and chemistry between two people who clearly care for each other and the wild life around them.

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Is there going to be more material coming next year? Are you working on more new stuff?

Yes! I’m spending the winter finishing of a load of new material for 2019 and trying to collab with as many new people as possible! But, Long Shot will be the first track from the three-song E.P., Emanate, with the last song due for release in November. 

Who do you rank as music idols and inspirations? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

Man; that’s always a tricky one. My early inspirations came from a lot of my dad’s collection. From Paul Simon, The Band…you know, basically anything in the ’70s that was made with real blood, sweat and tears! My family aren’t really musical but they appreciate a good tune! Right now, though, I’m a huge fan of so many great artists coming out of Canada and North America. I think it’s their relationship with the outdoors that I love - artists like Leif Vollebekk, Bahamas and Half Moon Run.

How did music arrive to you? When did you notice you had a talent for writing/performing?

Well. I’ve always been around music but I guess it really became an apparent during high-school. Playing with your best mates really loud out of a garage or shed; that's when I think most kids realise it's the best thing in the world! It was during that time I starting having a crack at songwriting and it just grew from there really.

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

Well. We’ll have a new E.P. out, we would have headlined another hometown show and I’ll be doing a few more stripped-back performances leading into Christmas.

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

This recent trip to shoot Long Shot, which I guess is a bit of a bi-product of the music but Chano had taken us out to this secluded beach for a wild camp out. I remember just sitting there, looking out towards the glistening lights of Morocco from across the water just thinking: ‘Wow. Music sure does take you to some places’. Then, we sat around singing songs in dodgy Spanish accents all night. It was a real ‘pinch me’ kinda night.

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

Twin Solitude - Leif Vollebekk

I just think he’s the most underrated songwriter of our time. He has such a unique way of marrying music to words.

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

It’d probably still choose Bon Iver. I’d just love to be able to see that show every night and get a sneak peek into all that juicy equipment!

 What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Urrm…just be honest with yourself, I guess. Don’t rush things and learn to make social media work for you. Don’t allow it to turn you into something you aren’t. Hopefully, then, that’ll attract the kind of fanbase you want to spend time with.

Do you have tour dates coming up? Where can we catch you play?

To celebrate the release of Long Shot, we’re playing a home show at The Cuban Embassy in Moseley, Birmingham on 11th October. After that, it’s back to the studio before we announce another U.K. tour in Feb.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: John Craigie

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

John Craigie (check out his song, I Am California)

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

Not so much at the moment, but I do love to get away when I can. Surfing has always been a big love of mine, just because it forces you to be in the moment which can be so hard to do these days.

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

Blake Mills - Women Know

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Follow Alex Lleo

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INTERVIEW: Ramona Rose

INTERVIEW:

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Ramona Rose

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I have been finding out more about Ramona Rose…

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as her new single, High Water, is out. She talks about how the track came together and whether there is more material coming along. The songwriter discusses how she got into music and which albums are most important to her.

Ramona Rose looks ahead  to gigs and tells me what it feels like being on stage; which rising, Leeds-based artists we should get involved with; if she has time to chill away from music – she selects a recent song to end the interview with.

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Hi, Ramona Rose. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello! I’m very well, thanks. Hope you are too! My week has been pretty busy gearing up for the single release - I’ve been up to my eyeballs in admin most days, but I’m feeling good!

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

I’m Ramona Rose. I’m a singer/songwriter based in Leeds (but originally from Oxfordshire) and I make Folk-Rock music. I’ve been gigging across the North for around five years, touring and writing as much as I possibly can! I‘m a solo artist, gigging with just a loop pedal and my guitar. I’ve just finished my third U.K. tour and I’ve just released my brand new single!

High Water is your new track. What can you reveal regarding its influence and story?

High Water is, essentially, a song about not letting the world get you down. When I wrote this record, I had just graduated from university and suddenly found myself out in the big wide world with absolutely no idea what I was doing with my life; generally feeling pretty lost.

It took me to quite a strange and confusing place but it was from that experience that I felt really compelled to write a song that fought back against the negativity of it all. It’s quite a defiant ‘don’t give up’ kind of message, but positive nonetheless.

It is an energised and catchy track. Was it quite an easy and quick track to put together?!

It literally took one day! It was the easiest record I’ve ever worked on in the sense that everything about it felt right. Myself and my friend Mak, who used to play bass in my band, headed over to Greenmount Studios in Leeds, where we got to work with the wonderful Lee Smith and Jamie Lockhart. I only brought a rough demo into the session but had a really clear idea of how I wanted it to sound - and the guys were so great with letting me explore that.

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By the end of the day, we had what is, essentially, the track you have now. I’d never worked on a record that way before, but it was brilliant - it really just forces you to make instinctive decisions and go with your gut on what works and what doesn’t. 

 Might there be an E.P. or album next year? How far ahead are you looking?

Well...there are definitely plans for an E.P. in the works. I’m so happy with where the sound is right now and I can’t wait to keep making more music. Next year is, hopefully, going to be a productive one!

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Do you recall when you got into music? Which artists did you grow up around?

I’ve been into music since I was super-little. My family had a huge vinyl collection and I was utterly obsessed with guitars as a kid, so it was there from the start really. I grew up listening to a huge range of artists; everything from Carly Simon to The Who to Shania Twain which has, ultimately, really informed the way I think about music today. I tend to draw on a lot of different influences when I write and so having that initial exposure to so many styles had a huge impact. 

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

My big priority is to keep writing and recording, so definitely to start working on the next release! I’ve also been working hard on the music video for High Water - which will be making an appearance before the year is out.

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

So far, the biggest highlight has been playing at O2 Academy Sheffield, where I had the joy of supporting CoCo and the Butterfields. The crowd were wonderful; a load of my friends were there and it was just a wonderful night. It was one of those gigs where you can’t quite believe you’re there.

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

Ooh; that’s tough! I’d have to say Rumours by Fleetwood Mac first and foremost

I learned an awful lot about good songwriting from this record and some of my all-time favourite songs are on there.

Another would have to be Eye to the Telescope by KT Tunstall

Because it was the first album I ever owned on C.D. As a kid, I would have the disc permanently in my little Walkman playing on a loop. I still revisit it to this day. I just think they’re beautifully-written songs.

And, finally, I Love You, Honeybear by Father John Misty

Pure lyrical genius just dripping with satire and cynicism. Before listening to this album, I’d never heard songs written in that way, and it really had an effect on me.  

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

Back in 2014, I formally added ‘support Jack White’ to the bucket list. His live show is outrageously good and his music has inspired me so much over the years. So, I’m formally putting that one out into the universe! 

As for a rider…I’m a pretty low-maintenance gal. I’d say WiFi, a phone charger and Yorkshire Tea. Rock on.

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

I’ve got plans in the works for an early 2019 tour - so keep an eye out for that - but I also have a few stand-alone shows on the horizon! My next few shows are: 

27/09 - York’s Little Festival of Live Music 

28/10 - Sofar Sounds, London

20/11 - Blues Bar, Harrogate 

Is the stage the most important place for you? How does it feel being up there?

I think the stage is the place that challenges me the most, but in the best possible way. When you play live, you’ve got so much adrenaline racing through your body that it almost feels like a fight-or-flight situation.

So, when I’m up there, I can easily feel like the most confident version of myself or the most vulnerable. It’s two sides of the same coin but that’s what makes the entire experience so exciting. I always write my songs with the number one intention of playing them live; there’s just nothing like it. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do what feels right, make your own decisions; protect your self-esteem and never give up. 

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Huw Eddy & The Carnival/PHOTO CREDIT: Ryan Lee Turton

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Absolutely! Check out Huw Eddy & The Carnival, Ben Bickley and AGI. All brilliant musicians emerging from the Leeds music scene (where I’m based). They’re just a few of many great artists smashing it right now so I highly recommend checking them out.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: AGI

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

I try and take time out whenever I can - I’m a great believer that you can have too much of a good thing and sometimes the only way to fuel your love for something is by stepping away from it. So, I read a lot; I watch Netflix, I attempt to go the gym and I occasionally try my hand at baking (although that can sometimes stress me out in equal measure!)

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).

Thanks for having me! I recommend a song called Psycho by Lauren Aquilina. I’ve had it on-repeat ever since its release a few weeks ago and I’m obsessed with it!

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Follow Ramona Rose

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INTERVIEW: Harry Heart

INTERVIEW:

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Harry Heart

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THE brilliant Harry Heart…

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has been discussing his new E.P., First Endorphin, and the themes that inspired it. The Walthamstow-born artist talks about his move to Sydney and the differences in terms of music; what sort of sounds he is inspired by – Heart recommends some artists to follow.

I ask whether there are any gigs coming up; which albums are most important to him; how the songwriter spends his time away from music – he ends the interview by selecting a great tune.

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

I just wrapped up a game of Frisbee and I've got a cup of tea and a Jamie xx playlist on the go; so the week's going pretty well, thank you.

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

My name's Harry Heart. I'm a musician from Walthamstow and I live in Sydney, Australia. I write Alternative-Rock songs and acoustic songs; sometimes performing by myself and sometimes with my wonderful five-piece band, affectionately known as The Harry Heart Chrysalis.

First Endorphin is new. Are there particular themes and ideas that inspired the E.P.?

If I really look for a common thread in the songs, they all seem to be getting at the idea of self-betterment. Some are about bitterness, some about frustration…but the idea of writing those songs is to look at what's going on in your life from the third-person perspective and try and rectify it. First Endorphin really means the first time I truly welcomed happiness.

You were born in Walthamstow but are based in Sydney. How did you come to end up there? Is Sydney the Walthamstow of Australia?

My family moved out to Australia some years ago. we were lucky to have the chance to try life on the other side of the world. Sydney's definitely not the Walthamstow of Australia but, interestingly, 'the chav' has just arrived in Australia in 2018, TNs and everything.

What are the main differences in terms of music and vibes? Are there good local artists around?

Australia's very driven by Garage/Surf-Rock, Indie-Pop and Electronic music at the moment. I think the U.K. still pays more attention to innovation rather than styles and genres; Bakar comes to mind. My favourite AU artists at the moment would have to be Jaala and Mildlife. 

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In terms of music; who do you count as idols and influences?

My big ones would have to be Jack White, Youth Group; Fionn Regan and Kanye West. I love artists that aren't scared to try something new with each record. Or, maybe they are scared but they don't let that stop them from putting it out.

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

Two Australian tours finished, one showcase at Australian Music Week; a U.K. tour up our sleeves, one E.P. finally released and the next record ready to go for 2019. Love a plan.

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

I remember very clearly playing a show in a place called Townsville on the northeast coast of Australia in the band Arcade Made when we were about fifteen-years-old. The sheer terror of playing a real show that wasn't a house-party was electrifying. It was an introduction to a career as a musician and I bloody loved it.

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

Gorillaz - Demon Days 

This is a big one for me. It's so diverse and engaging; a very progressive album with immaculate production.

Interpol - Antics 

This album has a set style, lots of reoccurring guitar tones and songs in the same key - and the result is that the slight differences between songs feel enormous. Incredible imaginative lyrics from start to finish too.

Fionn Regan - The End of History 

This album taught me how to write lyrics and avoid being lazy in writing music. It's so emotive and original. I wish there were more acoustic records of this calibre.

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

I'd support Townes Van Zandt. Any rider's a good rider.

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

I'm touring Australia in September by myself; then again in October with the band. Tour dates at https://www.harryheart.com/. Stay tuned for U.K. dates in early-2019; it's well overdue.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Get a good team around you; don't limit your creativity and make sure you're excited by what you’re doing.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Mildlife

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Bakar, Mildlife; Julian Wa, Kojaque; Emma Louise…that's a start.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Kojaque/PHOTO CREDIT: George Voronov

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

Studios are pretty nocturnal places so I get outdoors as often as possible. Love a good swim at the beach, a nice coffee; a book, a chinwag - all the good stuff.

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).

Erykah Badu – I’ll Call U Back

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Follow Harry Heart

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INTERVIEW: JDA

INTERVIEW:

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JDA

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WITH her single, Sublime, hot off of the press…

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I have been speaking with JDA about its story and how she will follow it up. The songwriter discusses her D.I.Y. approach to music and whether she is more inspired by sounds of the past or what is happening in music right now.

I was keen to know whether there were albums important to her; which rising musicians we need to throw some love towards; whether there are tour dates coming up – JDA tells me how she unwinds away from music.

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

Hey. I’m great, thanks! How are you? It’s been a busy week! I enjoy being busy so can’t complain.

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

Of course! I’m JDA; a London-based producer; singer-songwriter. I would describe my music as dark, ambient Trip-Hop – although, I always struggle what to describe it as. Haha. 

Sublime is your latest track. What is the story behind the song?

It’s about being with someone knowing full well you’re not the only one. But you can’t walk away for whatever reason.

Do you think there might be more music coming next year?

There will, 100%, be more music coming next year! Hopefully a bigger project for 2019.

You are a D.I.Y. artist who takes care of everything. Do you think it is important to have control of all your creative processes?

Personally, I like to have control over my music. It can be hard to translate what you hear in your head or your vision for your music, so being a D.I.Y. artist makes that process a lot easier.

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In terms of music; who do you count as idols and influences? 

I look up to artists who aren’t afraid of making music they love: James Blake, Tyler, the Creator; Sabrina Claudio. In terms of influences, I grew up around a lot of old Soul and Disco: Stevie Wonder, Otis Redding; George Benson etc. They have defiantly shaped the music I make and listen to today

Do you tend to get inspired by modern artists and what is happening in music now?

I really do. I take a lot of time to listen to new music. As important as it is to stick to what comes most natural to you, I always find it pivotal to listen to modern music and the new trends that follow. I’m always listening to new tracks buzzing to get home and make my own stuff.

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

As it’s my first year of releasing music, I want to leave 2018 having built some exposure, found new listeners; got some radioplay and to have set myself up for more opportunities.

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

My favourite memory so far was hearing my song on the radio for the first time. My first single was played on Reprezent radio and I will never forget that feeling.

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

Ahh...that’s such a hard question. I have so many albums, old and new, that I listen to on-repeat. But, I would have to say…

Overgrown - James Blake

This album is STUNNING! I feel like Blake really mastered his sound; his vocals matched the incredible production and there isn’t one song on this album I would skip.

Yeezus - Kanye West

I am a big Kanye fan. This came out when I first started producing so I just remember being stunned at the sound he had created. I also watched the listening party from Madison Square in the cinema so this album holds a lot of sentimental value as well.

Voodoo - D’Angleo

I have always loved this album from the first moment my friend played it to me. D’Angelo forever creates such a groovy, soulful vibe. This album has some real classics throughout and it shaped a lot of what I listened to in the early-2000s.

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

H.E.R! I went to see her live and was BLOWN away; singing at the top of my lungs in the audience. I love the intimate atmosphere she creates. I think we would be a good match. 

My rider would be…erm…defiantly some snacks; Chilli Heatwave Doritos with some dips. Some G&Ts for after cause I cannot drink and sing for the life of me. That’s probably it to be honest.

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

No live dates, yet. Hopefully, I will have a few before the end of the year so keep your eyes on my socials for updates. However, I am going into the BBC Introducing South live lounge on the 26th Sept., so tune in to that!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

No one does you better than you, so stick to it.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: ARUN

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes! ARUN. A mega-talented all-rounder. His E.P., Dark Honey, is about to drop and I cannot contain my excitement!

Veda Black. This girl’s single has been one of my most-played songs of 2018. She only has big things waiting for her.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Veda Black/PHOTO CREDIT: Chiara//Nomorning

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

Juggling music and a full-time job is hard, so I don’t have much time to relax. When I do, it’s always with friends, my boyfriend or my family. I like to work out, hang out; eat and watch some trash T.V. on Netflix.

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).

Sabrina Claudio - Stand Still. I have this on-repeat A LOT! 

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Follow JDA

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INTERVIEW: Kelsey of Blak Emoji

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Kevin Condon

Kelsey of Blak Emoji

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THE awesome Kelsey from Blak Emoji…

PHOTO CREDIT: Kevin Condon

has been telling me about the band’s new single, Lust Above Love, and whether more material is coming next year. He tells me how the band got together and what sort of music he is guided by – Kelsey recommends a few rising artists that are worth some time and energy.

Kesley reveals Blak Emoji tour plans and which one album means the most to him; if he gets time to chill away from music; how important New York is to him regarding sound and direction – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

What up, Sam? Good but crazy-busy!

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

Sure. We’re from N.Y.C. Blak Emoji is a band and/or myself (laughs) - kind of like a Trent Reznor N.I.N. thing. Been around a few years; first single dropped in 2016 and our debut E.P. called INTRO came out last year. Our sound falls in the genres of Electro-Pop, Alt-Pop-Rock and R&B. Someone once called us ‘Blacktronica’ which I thought was pretty awesome.

Lust Love Above is your latest single. Is there a story behind the song?

The groove came about when I was creating ideas on my laptop via GaragBand. I thought the beat sounded kind of sexy; had a cool minimalist vibe. So, the lyrics naturally had to fit that style. It’s just a song about wanting to please your lover; an ode to connection.

How did Blak Emoji start life? When did the band get together?

I previously fronted a Heavy-Rock band for years in N.Y. and was just growing tired of it. Lot of ups and downs. Mentally and sonically, I felt stifled; like I put myself in a straitjacket. So, I decided to end it but, while that was happening, I was spending studio time alone making these Dance songs and more Dance-Rock stuff just for the sake of doing it - wasn’t planning on starting a new band or releasing anything. I just wanted to make music in a different light without pressure. This was around the end of 2015. A few songs took shape and it was like: ‘I think I have a new project’. Early-2016 it went public with our first single, Sapiosexual.

After that, I was really missing playing live so I started a new group. I saw Max play drums at a local downtown club and was immediately hooked! I knew Sylvana in a roundabout way via musicians in the scene. We met and played one time and it was just the perfect connection. Max recommended Bryan after we had a few bass players and he fit like a glove after one rehearsal.

PHOTO CREDIT: Nicole Brody

Do you feel there will be more material next year?

Definitely! We have a new album called KUMI that’s recorded and finished. We’re actually doing a little sneak preview of it for our N.Y.C. fans and core followers this weekend but releasing it officially on major music platforms - Apple, Spotify and all that - early next year. 

In terms of musical inspiration; what sort of music were you raised on?

I was raised on so many styles which shaped my whole musical being. Lots of classic R&B, Funk and Soul in the family. My brother got me into a lot of Rock, Alternative and Jazz while my sister introduced me to quite a bit of Pop. After that, it was Punk, Metal; Hip-Hop, Electronic; Minimalist Classical…anything that moved me. I’m a true fan and always will be. I believe that’s the key to being a well versatile musician. And it’s fun.

New York is where you are based. How important is the city regarding your passion and work?

New York slowly became a backdrop and/or inspiration to quite a bit of my songs after moving here. Almost like a (Martin) Scorsese or Spike Lee film where it’s always lingering in the vibe of their work. It’s inspiring, the good times and bad times here.

PHOTO CREDIT: Kevin Condon

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

We’re releasing a few more singles from KUMI so I hope people enjoy them and they get the recognition. I also want to continue producing other artists as much as possible for their projects before the year closes. Doing a few remixes here and there too.  

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

Hmm. I remember being in Tel Aviv early-2017 and watching the impact of the band grow online out of nowhere from a few positive write-ups. It was interesting watching far away from the outside looking in for a change. In less than a week, I was back in N.Y.C. playing to this huge audience at Irving Plaza for our E.P. release. I have so many memories watching bands that inspired me play that venue. So, to celebrate the release of our first E.P., there was a beautiful moment. Definitely a fun memory.

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

Aw, man, that’s a tough one. Off the dome, I’d say Prince’s Sign o’ the Times because it’s so all over the place yet focused at the same time. It’s just the most enjoyable Avant-Pop trip you can take. To this day, I’m blown away by the songs on that album and how influential it is to myself and artists I highly respect. The lyrics, the songs; the Funk, the Rock; the Avant tracks like Dorothy Parker. Pop genius.

It goes back and forth with Purple Rain for me depending on the year.

PHOTO CREDIT: Nicole Brody

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

Nine Inch Nails! I wouldn’t even care about the rider so much…  

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

Early next year, yes, in March. We’ll be doing a few sporadic N.Y.C. and regional dates until then.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep moving forward, even if you start to feel comfortable or complacent. And trust your instinct as much as possible.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Whitney Tai

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. There’s a pop artist in L.A.; singer/songwriter Whitney Tai who is the real deal! We collaborate together with a project called BlakTai too but definitely check her music out. There’s also a Metal band with serious low-end from Brooklyn called Netherlands. They’re amazeballs! Ho99o9 are this Electro-Punk trio from Jersey. Live, they’re incredible; crazy energy. Oh, yeah, and Karolina Rose; an Electro-Pop artist in N.Y.C. is about to release a new E.P. I dig her stuff. Max and Bryan play with her live sometimes too.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Karolina Rose

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

YouTube rabbit holes; Netflix, dancing; hanging with my daughter...few of my favorite things. I like sleep, too.

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

Low’s Disarray from Double Negative is playing in my headphones now

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Follow Blak Emoji

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INTERVIEW: James Cramer

INTERVIEW:

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James Cramer

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I have been chatting with James Cramer….

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about his latest track, Let Me Do Good, and why he decided to shoot the video in Mexico City. I ask what sort of sounds inspires him and whether there is more material coming later this year – he recommends an upcoming artist to follow.

Cramer discusses his touring plans and what he hopes to achieve before the end of the year; what approaching musicians should remember; how he unwinds from music – he ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

I'm sweet. I'm just back from Norway where I was writing and recording songs for my album. An inspiring place with very cool people. 

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

My name is James Cramer. I'm a singer-songwriter from Dublin. 

Let Me Do Good is your debut single. What is the story behind the song?

Now, that would be telling! It's a mixture of a lot of things and people I observe up-close or from far away - and I lay it all out for people to make their own mind up on this one. I do not do this all the time but this song is a special one so I don't want to ruin it for you!

Was it cool shooting the video in Mexico City? Was there a reason for locating there?

Yes. It was very cool. The idea came about whilst myself and my manager were having coffee and we started coming up with places and scenes where we would love it to be set. The guys did a beautiful job. It's visually stunning and gives the audience a challenging contrast of the song. It's a cinematic piece so where better than Mexico City in all its glory would capture that. 

Is there going to be more material coming next year?

Yes. We will have another single out. We are going song-by-song at the moment. The album is nearly finished but I'm always writing and exploring musically. Sometimes it’s good, sometimes it doesn't work out…but it's all part of the ride. 

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Who do you rank as music idols and inspirations? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

Roy Orbison, Van Morrison; Bob Dylan and John Lee Hooker.

Not really. There would be parties and people would have sing-songs but nobody I knew was playing any instruments never mind writing their own songs. I would of secretly felt very out of touch with everyone who I knew and grew up with.  

Looking back; was there a single moment you knew you had to follow music and do it as a career?

School never worked out for me - I just couldn't settle in that environment. I thought I was a bit crazy as, in class, melodies, rhythms and lyrics would pop in to my head. I thought it was just me it happened to; then you meet a small minority of people and they have it too so you get that it's fine: you’re just a creative person and doing metalwork had no appeal whatsoever! 

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

To finish my solo debut album and get it ready to roll for release in 2019.

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

There's been a lot. I've been so lucky to have travelled the world because of my songs: no other reason would I have done that, so I'll say that. The music brings you to strange and beautiful places for sure!

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

Mine would be Into the Music by Van Morrison (side-two particularly!).

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

The Rolling Stones; why not. I reckon I could give 1970s-Stones a good run for their money!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If it's in you, you'll know. Follow it; work at it. You will struggle with it but you just keep going. If you quit then it wasn't in you from the start. Find some people who believe in you and who can give you honesty on your work. Go for it and make no apologies in doing so. 

Do you have tour dates coming up? Where can we catch you play?

I'm off to Belgium next month. We headline Rusilelde Festival on October 19th and Dranouter on 20th. 

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Gráinne Hunt

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

She's not new - but we are always new to someone. An Irish singer songwriter, Gráinne Hunt, is a great vocalist and songwriter who works hard. Check out her debut E.P., Firing Pin. 

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

Yes, I do, but it's hard to really switch off at a dinner or a party so I like to go boxing and train hard and to go to art galleries. My mind is gone in those places. 

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).

Van Morrison & John Lee Hooker - I Cover the Waterfront

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Follow James Cramer

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INTERVIEW: Franko Fraize

INTERVIEW:

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Franko Fraize

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THE multi-talented Franko Fraize….

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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…

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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.

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 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.

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 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 

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INTERVIEW: Charlene Soraia

INTERVIEW:

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Charlene Soraia

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THANKS to Charlene Soraia for speaking with me….

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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

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INTERVIEW: Scott Matthew

INTERVIEW:

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Scott Matthew

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THE fantastic Scott Matthew talks to me about….

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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 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

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INTERVIEW: The Herron Brothers

INTERVIEW:

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The Herron Brothers

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I have been chatting with The Herron Brothers….

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.

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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).

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 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

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INTERVIEW: Calista from Voice of Aiko

INTERVIEW:

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Calista from Voice of Aiko

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IT is not often I get to speak….

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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 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!

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 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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INTERVIEW: Ghost Caravan

INTERVIEW:

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Ghost Caravan

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THE fantastic Ghost Caravan….

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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 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.

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 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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INTERVIEW: Marlon Chaplin

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Greggain

Marlon Chaplin

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IT has been great speaking with Marlon Chaplin…

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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.

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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

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INTERVIEW: Tiger Mimic

INTERVIEW:

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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….

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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. 

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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.

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 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! 

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 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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INTERVIEW: Future Jr.

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jackson Todd

Future Jr.

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I been speaking with Future Jr.…

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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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. 

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 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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INTERVIEW: At Pavillon

INTERVIEW:

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At Pavillon

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THE Austrian band At Pavillon…

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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!

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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!

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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!

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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.

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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! 

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Parcels

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Parcels, LISS; Lo Moon; Her, Leyya…

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 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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INTERVIEW: Ishani

INTERVIEW:

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Ishani

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I have been speaking with Ishani…

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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!

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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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