INTERVIEW: Run Coyote

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Michelle Balderston

Run Coyote

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AMANDA and Sam of Run Coyote…

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have been discussing their new track, Night Rider, and what its background is. I was keen to learn how the band found one another and whether they have favourite memories from their career so far; which albums are important to them and whether they have advice for upcoming musicians.

Sam and Amanda discuss the upcoming Run Coyote album and tell me how they spend time away from music; which rising artists we need to get behind – given their band’s latest single; I ask which David Hasselhoff moment stands out to them.

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Interview with Run Coyote’s Sam Allen and Amanda Grant.

 

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

Sam: Great! We’ve just started playing some fall shows and I’ve been wearing my new trench coat.

Amanda: Fall is just starting so I’m pretty into making soup at the moment. That makes for a good week.

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

Sam: My name is Sam and I play guitar and sing; my brother Jake plays lead guitar; Amanda plays the bass and Jeremy holds us together on drums. We’re a Western-Noir band from Toronto, Canada.

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

Sam: Night Rider was inspired by late-night drives on deserted highways. When you play in a band, you spend a lot of time on the road and I wanted to work that experience into a song. It ended up being a story about a guy drifting between work, his family and adventure.

Given the title of your latest single; do you each have a favourite work from the thespian David Hasselhoff?

Sam: The Simpsons episode where “David Hasselhoff” is one of Lisa’s first words.

Amanda: I’m partial to his cameo in the Baywatch remake…

I understand an album is coming next year. What can we expect in terms of themes and stories on the record?

Amanda: Sam’s been really into film noir and hardboiled fiction so that was a big influence on this record. He brought a bunch of songs to the band that play on the idea of a femme fatale character and a detective. But, we also love old westerns and the music from those movies so there is definitely some of that too.

Sam: I’m a very visual songwriter. I imagine scenes in my head and try to express them through the music. For most of these songs, I was picturing a crossroad between film noir and spaghetti westerns - trying to mix moody Rock ‘n’ Roll with twangy guitar; Roy Orbison with Ennio Morricone.  

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rima Sater

Can you remember how Run Coyote got together and started making music?

Sam: It grew out of a solo project I had. When I started writing the first Run Coyote record, I knew I wanted the songs to be performed with a full band, and the more we played together, it became obvious this wasn’t just my thing anymore. We all bring a lot to it.

Do you have shared music tastes? What was the sort of music you were raised on?

Amanda: We have grown to have a shared taste in music. If you spend enough time together you inevitably start to like the same things. We all love the Canadian band Timber Timbre. That was a unifying thing off the top. But, I was raised on a lot of singer-songwriter stuff - Joni Mitchell, James Taylor and Cat Stevens - while Sam and Jake grew up with Frank Zappa…so we’re nostalgic for different things and that brings different influences to our music.

Sam: Yeah. Bluegrass is also something I was raised on. My aunt, uncles and cousins play in a family Bluegrass band. I grew up with that and Country-Gospel at our family farm in Southwestern Ontario.

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

Sam: A sold-out stadium tour. (Laughs).

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Rima Sater

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

Sam: One time in Quebec City, we were playing a house show in an attic apartment. Before the show could start, the downstairs neighbours complained so we had to find a new spot to play, quick! We couldn’t speak French, so we weren’t sure what the plan was but ended up doing the show at one of the original host’s friend’s place around the block.

So, everyone who had come out for the concert helped us move our gear, with a parade of people marching up the street on a fall night carrying cymbal stands, amps; drums and guitars. It still is one of my favourite shows we’ve ever played.

Amanda: Ooo; mine is in Quebec too, but in Montreal. It was the first time an audience of people we didn’t know started singing along with one of our songs. That’s a good feeling.

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

Amanda: Probably Talking Heads - Fear of Music

All because of the song Life During Wartime. I have distinct memories of jumping around singing that song at the top of my lungs with my dad. He loves music but doesn’t think he’s any good at singing; so I love when he just lets loose.

Sam: The Beatles - ‘The White Album’ (The Beatles)

It sounds silly but, when I was thirteen or something, I didn’t know you could make music like that until I heard that album.

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

Sam: I’d want to play with Nick Cave. I wouldn’t need a rider if I got to do that every night.

Amanda: Paul McCartney, for sure. I’d get to hang out with Paul and get in on his post-show vegetarian feasts. I would share my rider of tea and every kind of candy with him and we’d become the greatest of friends!  

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Rima Sater

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

Sam: We’re touring across Ontario and Quebec in Canada this fall:

Sept 22 – Toronto, ON – Burdock

Oct 5 – London, ON – Rum Runners

Nov 2 – London, ON – London Bicycle Café *

Nov 3 – Kitchener-Waterloo, ON – T.B.A. *

Nov 4 – Hamilton, ON – Collective Arts Brewing *

Nov 7 – Peterborough, ON – House Show *

Nov 8 – Belleville, ON – Capers Concert Stage Room *

Nov 9 – Kingston, ON – Musiikki Café *

Nov 10 – Kincardine, ON – House Show *

Nov 14 – Toronto, ON – The Dakota Tavern

Nov 17 – Ottawa, ON – Pressed

Nov 18 – Montreal, QC – Casa del Popolo

 * solo Run Coyote shows with Dave Allen

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Amanda: Don’t do it for the money.

Sam: I would say it’s important to play a lot of shows in order to discover what type of musician you are and your relationship with an audience. Something I’m still trying to work on is to always find ways to make and keep it fun…

Amanda: …And always thank your sound person. You’d be lost without them.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Alex Mason

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sam: Listen to our friends Alex Mason and LUKA - they’re great!

Amanda: Julie Arsenault has the most beautiful voice. The Lifers are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met. Check them both out!

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 IN THIS IMAGE: Julie Arsenault/IMAGE CREDIT: Jack Phelps

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

Sam: I unwind listening to Chet Baker.

Amanda: …and eating candy.

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).

Sam: Tom Waits - Shore Leave (from Swordfishtrombones)

 

Amanda: The Weather Station – Shy Women (from Loyalty)  

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INTERVIEW: Johnny Kills

INTERVIEW:

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Johnny Kills

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THE chaps of Johnny Kills…

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have been telling me about their new single, Seems, and what the story behind it is. I ask how the band got together and whether there are plans for future material/gigs – they recommend some rising artists that are worth spending some time around.

I was keen to know what sort of music drives them and albums that are important; whether they have any advice for musicians emerging and, considering their name, which Johnny they’d hire if they need a good, professional kill.

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

Hi! We’re good, thanks; hope you are too. It’s been really good actually. We had a gig at The Finsbury on Saturday and we hadn’t had one in a while so that was fun. We were trying a couple new things which was cool too – two new tracks in the set plus adding in some keys for the first time. It’s always fun when you get the opportunity to change it up a little!

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

So. We’re Johnny Kills and we play slightly punky, slightly poppy; quite guitar-y and a little keyboard-y Surf-Rock stuff. People have said we sound a little bit like Weezer, Wavves and FIDLAR which makes us happy because they are definitely influences.

Seems is your new track. Is there a story behind the song at all?

Seems is about a moment where you hear something really great at the same time as something really sad. Going from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows really quickly and ending up feeling confused about it and trying to process both at the same time.

Might we expect more material in the coming months?

We’re heading into the studio soon to record a few songs which we’re really excited about; so, hopefullyyyy before the end of the year but if not then definitely early-2019.

How did Johnny Kills get together? When did you find one another?

We’d been in few bands kicking around the Cambridge scene for a few years, a couple of which we were in together, and then we decided to start a new one just as Cameron and I headed off to university at opposite ends of the country - which made it a little hard for ourselves. Aha. But, we’ve know each other for years: Lewis and I are actually brothers so I guess we found each other at home and then we met Cameron about sixteen years later.

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

Mine and Lewis’ dad has always played us a lot of stuff. He introduced us to Pavement, Arcade Fire and still introduces to a load of cool new things that we haven’t heard yet. Then, we veered off a bit and got really into Radiohead. Then, when we were friends with Cameron, we all stumbled upon fuzzy stuff such as Yuck and FIDLAR together and that definitely made an impression. But, we love all sorts of different stuff: I’m really getting into St. Vincent’s most-recent album at the moment for example.

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

Umm; well, it’s pretty close to the end of 2018 now so I’ll be pretty conservative with a small ‘c’ here and say to have a few cool new recorded tracks in the bank and maybe a few more fun live shows. We’ve got a gig on 4th October for Riff Raff at Paper Dress Vintage in Hackney which we’re looking forward to so, hopefully, that goes well too. And then, I guess, Wembley.

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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?

Tim: I always love recording . We go up to The Nave to work in Leeds with the excellent Alex Greaves and get to play with a load of crazy gear that we’d never get the opportunity to use otherwise, like super-cool and temperamental retro pedals. Getting to do that whilst also actually being productive and seeing the song come together in stages is really fun.

Lewis: There used to be new band nights at The Junction in Cambridge we played when we were all in an old band together. They were generally pretty well attended; however, one time, the stars aligned in terms of line-up/timing or whatever and it was a complete sell-out. Playing to nearly one-thousand really receptive people (“Wave your arms!”; 'Sing this back!”; “Jump around!”) was pretty surreal, and kinda mind-blowing.

Cameron: It’s a weird one. I’d probably say our first gig in a ‘man-that-was-lucky-we-just-about-pulled-that-one-off’ kind of way; just for the fact that it even happened. Basically, we’d had our debut show booked in for a while - it was in Brighton at The Hope and Ruin. And then like the muppet I am, I accidentally booked a holiday to Corfu that got back on the same day and meant we couldn’t rehearse for the two weeks up to it - after the last practice beforehand hadn’t gone amazingly. I had to take a guitar on holiday with me to practice and then go straight from the airport to a rehearsal with the other guys.

By the time of the show, I think I’d been up for around forty hours and was pretty much delirious but it was surprisingly disaster-free in the end. This is more a fun memory in hindsight: it was super-stressful at the time. But, we’d been excited to gig for ages (almost a year) and the drama added to a release of tension that made us realise why we’d missed doing it so much. It was back to being a real band again rather than online pen pals.

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

Lewis: Crooked Rain, Crooked Rain - Pavement

It got me into Pavement who are one of my favourite bands and showed me that being a bit ramshackle can actually add to the music…and that it’s all about the songs.

Tim: OK Computer – Radiohead

It’s a cliché choice but that’s just because it is an amazing album. I’m usually into slightly more distorted and fuzzy stuff but Karma Police, Let Down and No Surprises would all stake a claim at being my favourite-ever song. We got to see them at Glastonbury last year and it was one of the best moments ever.

Cameron: Yuck – Yuck

Bring the fuzz!

Give your name; which Johnny, if you were hiring a sure-fire assassin, would you hire to get the job done?

Johnny Bravo.

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

Probably Pavement or Radiohead as they are our all-time heroes. I have no idea on the rider. I think playing with them would be enough. Maybe, we’d do the classic thing and say only blue/no blue M&Ms? Or an excellent board game.

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

We’ve got that show on 4th at Paper Dress Vintage in London for Riff Raff and I’m sure there’ll be a few more before the year is out.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

You don’t have to say ‘yes’ to everything  - but also just try be as nice as possible to people. There might be times when there are problems with the sound at a show or whatever, but it’s not always someone’s fault and it never pays to be a dick about it. Everyone’s trying their best and probably just as stressed as you are when things go wrong. Also…write some really good tunes.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Pizzagirl

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Pizzagirl – catchy-as-hell 1980s-esque Synth-Pop from a man who calls his bedroom a ‘beatzzeria’. What’s not to love?!

Sports Team – really good tunes to go along with a really fun online presence. Got to see them at a local cricket club’s bar and they were really good live.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Sports Team/PHOTO CREDIT: Louise Mason

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

Well. Lewis and Tim’s are involved in music for work, so not as much time away as you’d think. But, we love it so great. We also like ourselves a bit of football and are huge Liverpool fans, apart from Cameron. Cameron is actually the manager at a trampoline park so that’s how he spends most of his days - trying to learn to do backflips for the one-thousandth time and filling out health and safety forms. 

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).

Tim: Pizzagirl – Coffee Shop

Lewis: WOOZE - Hello Can You Go

Cameron: Childhood – Don’t Have Me Back

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INTERVIEW: Holly Abraham

INTERVIEW:

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Holly Abraham

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HER debut single, Shore, is out today…

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so I have been talking with Holly Abraham about it and whether she has more material in the pipeline. The Bristol-based songwriter tells me about her musical upbringing and what sort of sounds have inspired her – I ask whether there will be any tour dates.

Abraham discusses her favourite memory from her career so far and what music means to her; whether she has any advice for songwriters coming through; which rising musicians we need to check out – she ends the interview with a great song choice.

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

Hey, Sam. It’s been great, thanks! I’ve been doing loads of prep for my single (to come out) and it’s finally been released so I am on a crazy buzz right now!  Apparently, dreams really do come true!

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

I’m a chocoholic from Wales who creates mellow Indie/Folk music! I’m a singer-songwriter who has been in love with the guitar for about twenty years and I’ve just recently moved to the wonderful, vibrant city of Bristol to start pursuing my music seriously.

Shore is your debut single. Can you reveal the origins behind it?

Shore is the first real and authentic song that I wrote. It was created a few years ago during a darker period of my life and originally it wasn’t even meant to be heard by any ears apart from my own! It’s an honest expression of the sinking feeling I was experiencing at the time, whilst still holding onto the hope that things wouldn’t stay this way forever. Shore is a pretty vulnerable track, so it’s fitting that it’s my debut single as that’s exactly how I want to introduce my music to the world – raw and honest with no pretence.

Will there be more material coming? What are you working on at the moment?

Absolutely! Shore is just the beginning of many plans we have coming over the next year! I’m hoping to drop another single around February, which will then make way for my debut E.P. to be released soon after. I’ve learned very quickly you have to be ten steps ahead at all times in the music industry! You can be sitting on tracks for months or even years before they are available for the world to hear!

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

I was fortunate enough to grow up in a pretty musical household, so it’s been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. My dad was a singer-songwriter and my absolute hero. He started teaching me how to play guitar when I was five-years-old and I was convinced when I was younger we were going to be a famous daughter-dad duo! Honestly, I have no idea what music was popular in the ’90s because I was being brought up on The Beatles and James Taylor!

As a teenager, I loved Newton Faulkner and Jack Johnson so they largely inspired my love for acoustic guitar. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve fallen madly in love with atmospheric Indie things and still enjoy a little bit of Rock.  

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Is music the best way you express yourself? How important is it to you?

I’m pretty sure music runs through my veins - I absolutely live and breathe it! When I’m not writing, performing or recording; I’m making playlists, going to see live music or sharing new artists with friends. I can’t even do the washing-up without having some tunes on! I’m quite an external person so songwriting definitely helps me process. I love the way music can provoke, inspire; entertain and move people: it’s such a privilege to have an opportunity to bring that to the world!

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

A lot of work this year has gone into producing and releasing Shore as well as getting my artist profile off the ground so I’m looking forward to seeing the response from that in the next few weeks or so. It’s already being featured in an autumn playlist so it will be awesome if it gets a bit of love from some other places too! I’m focusing a lot on live performance at the moment and we’re also starting work on the next single and E.P. for 2019. Busy, busy, busy!

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

During my time in Australia this year, I lived in a little place called Toowoomba in Queensland and I took part in the Toowoomba Busking Festival which was really fun! I formed a little collective called Going Zucchini with two friends from the U.S. and Germany and we got to spend the day playing sets in different locations around the city (shout-out to Luke and Luca!).

The atmosphere was absolutely magical - it was really sunny and there were so many people relaxing and enjoying themselves! It felt like the whole city had come out just for that day; all united together by the love of music. We had such a good time, so it was just an added bonus when we received a People’s Choice Award!

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

1 - The Beatles

When I was growing up, I had this huge yellow book of the music of ALL the Beatles’ songs and so most of my first songs ever learned on guitar were featured on this album. The Beatles still bring back so many memories of hanging out with my dad and sneaking out of bed to watch music documentaries with him until 2 A.M.!

Sunny Side Up - Paolo Nutini

I think this is one of the first C.D.s I ever owned! It kept me company all through high-school and Paolo and I sang many a duet whilst I tidied my room during the early-2000s! Last Request was one of the first terrible YouTube covers I ever did and a meaningful song I shared with my first boyfriend. Who doesn’t still get cheered up by a bit of New Shoes?!

Dome - Firewoodisland

This E.P. came out in a time in a time of my life where a lot of things were changing for the better and it was then that I first realised I could actually pursue my dream of making music. I was around for a lot of the production of the E.P. and that’s where my eyes were first really opened to how the music industry works - it was so exciting to see all the things that happen behind the scenes that most people don’t even know about! The title-track, Dome, is extremely moving and will always be really special to me.

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

Supporting Of Monsters and Men would be an absolute dream! I met them after a gig in Bristol on their world tour around two years ago and they were so lovely even though they were exhausted!

The rider would definitely involve some hot chocolate, some excellent pizza from Bosco on Whiteladies Road and a mandatory deep conversation about our experiences and inspirations!

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

I’m playing a lot of local gigs at the moment - mainly Bristol, Cardiff and Bath. Supporting some great artists soon and I’m hoping to do a U.K. release tour when my E.P. comes out next year, so stay tuned!

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

I really love performing and have done live stuff in the past; just never my own songs until now. It’s been a funny transition this year going from writing and practicing to the wall in my bedroom; to actually playing what I’ve written on stages in front of people!

I get the most out of music when I see it’s moving other people in some way and I think live performance achieves that in a more tangible way than recorded music does in some respects. I still equally love spending time in the studio and in production though - making my songs come to life behind the scenes is really exciting too!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

1.      Be prepared to put in A LOT of hard groundwork in the beginning for little reward. Every successful musician once did those toilet gigs!

2.      Don’t allow how many ‘likes’ you have on Facebook or plays on Spotify determine your worth as a person or as an artist - focus on why you started making music in the first place and the rest of the world will catch up later.

3.      Be ridiculously lovely to everyone you meet and remember to have some flipping fun along the way!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Novo Amor/PHOTO CREDIT: Daniel Alexander Harris

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Novo Amor is one of my biggest inspirations; Ali Lacey and Ed Tullett provide a little bit of ear-heaven for me on almost a daily basis. If you haven’t heard of Novo Amor please go and fall in love with him too so we can sway our phone lights back and forth together and hug each other at the next gig!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Ed Tullett

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

Music is one of the biggest joys in my life, so I never want to fully get away from it; even in my downtime, I’m usually getting inspiration or hanging out with other creative/musical friends! I’ve just started customising my polka dot Fender Strat which is an exciting project I’ve never done before! Otherwise, if friends are busy then being snuggled up in bed with a mellow playlist, candles and Pinterest is always a dreamy alternative!

I’ve also really got into cacti and home décor recently, so an embarrassing amount of time is usually spent dreaming about my imaginary, unrealistic future home. There will be plants…

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 mentioned Dome by Firewoodisland earlier and I’d like to play another one of their beautiful songs called Knot. I listened to it on repeat during the hard times in Cambodia this year and it’s never let me down since! Gorgeous stuff!

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INTERVIEW: Rhian Sheehan

INTERVIEW:

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Rhian Sheehan

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THIS day starts with me talking…

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with the New Zealand-based artist Rhian Sheehan. He talks to me about his new single, The Absence of You, and what its story is. I ask what we can expect from the album, A Quiet Divide (out 5th October), and what plans he has going forward.

Sheehan tells me about the albums and artists that mean the most to him; whether there are tour dates coming up; how he got started in music; how important orchestral music is to him – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

It’s been busy. We’re gearing up for a tour around New Zealand next week, so we’re full swing into rehearsals. It’s also the most technically challenging show we’ve put together, with multiple screens and projections - so we’re in full preparation right now.

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

Well. I’ve been releasing music since the early-2000s but, over that time, I became a full-time screen composer for film, T.V. and video games etc. So, I have worked in many different genres over the years. It’s a little tricky trying to pigeonhole my own releases into one genre as my own style has evolved over the years.

My earlier releases were predominantly electronic in nature but I would say that my last three albums (Standing in Silence, Stories from Elsewhere and A Quiet Divide) have all delved more and more into an orchestral and atmospheric sound, mixed with moments of Post-Rock and synth soundscapes. Someone recently described my music as “atmospheric Chamber music”, which I think describes the latest release well.

The Absence of You is just out. Is there a story behind the track? 

Originally, the track was in a very different form as a slower piano piece. When I began working on the new record, I rediscovered the original idea and completely reworked it into something very different. The finished piece (for piano moog and chamber strings) is far more passionate and focused than my original slow sketch. I’m always jotting down ideas; sketching on the piano or guitar, and many of these ideas never see the light of day again so it’s nice when some old idea helps spark off a new one.

It’s from the album, A Quiet Divide. In terms of themes and ideas; what can we expect from the album?

I think my scoring work shines through on A Quiet Divide more than any other release. Listening now, in retrospect, the album feels like it could be a film score in places. My intention was to write and produce an album that was reflective, emotive and delicate but that also had interesting sonic colours and textures. It’s by far the most heavily piano and chamber strings-focused album I’ve released.

I often find myself daydreaming when sketching out an idea, getting nostalgic about the past and pondering the future. I’m a parent and, being a parent, it quickly becomes apparent that all of the beautiful little moments we experience in life are fleeting. They fade into a past memory in an instant. There’s a little sadness wrapped up in all this. Our time is limited. That’s where the title for the album came from.

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

I'm very busy working on Magic Leap and film soundtracks so, at this stage, my future output is focused on the more commercial side of my work.

Can you talk about the video for Soma Dreams? What was it like working with Matt Pitt?

Matt, A.K.A. redkidOne, is an old friend of mine and an extremely talented animator. He’s produced some beautiful music videos for me over the years - and they all connect to each other in subtle ways. The idea for Soma Dreams video came about from the Japanese girl’s dialogue at the beginning of the track. She’s talking about a dream she had about a whale in the sky. Matt took inspiration from that and ran with it, with gorgeous results.

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

I was around music from a young age. My mother was in a tour band when I young, so we spent some time on the road. But, I didn’t really take music seriously until I was about seventeen. I played in many bands as a pretty average guitar player but then went on to study composition and began recording my own music in my home studio from around the age of eighteen. My tastes are wide and varied, but I’ve become more and more influenced by orchestral and Classical music as well as Ambient music over the years.

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It is clear strings and Classical elements are important to you and who you are. Do you think genres like Classical get overlooked by many people and warrants greater attention?

I think Classical, or more specifically orchestral music, has had a huge resurgence in recent years and that’s in some part because of the success of artists such as Max Richter, Ólafur Arnalds; Nils Frahm, the late and great Jóhann Jóhannsson and many others; all of whom have taken the idea of Classical music and turned it on its head; experimenting with orchestral sounds in a far less traditional way. It’s an exciting time for modern-Classical music.

My own experience is that writing for orchestra can be somewhat addictive. Every recording session you do is like watching magic unfold in front of you. You are literally listening as notes written on paper spring into life via the hands of very talent performers. That’s an exciting moment.

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

It’s been a busy year from me. As well as finishing the new album, I’ve just wrapped up writing a score for Magic Leap’s mixed-reality game, Dr. Grordbort’s Invaders, which is coming soon. I’m also excited to tour the new album around New Zealand over the coming months. We have a fantastic band and I’ve been lucky enough to have worked with some incredibly talented visual artists on these shows too.

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

Yes. To celebrate my new album I'm playing with a nine-piece band and orchestras across N.Z. in Dunedin, Nelson; Wellington and Auckland - with a visual backdrop created by Weta Workshop and collaborations from a host of visual specialists from N.Z., U.S.A. and U.K. I'm super-excited to unveil this show.

SAT, 29 SEPT: Dunedin Town Hall

FRI, 12 OCT: Michael Fowler Centre, Wellington

SAT, 20 and SUN 21 OCT: Nelson Theatre Royal

FRI, 26 and SAT Oct 27: Q Theatre, Auckland

All info at http://loop.co.nz/shows; Video trailer for shows.

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

One of favourite recent musical moments was seeing Max Richter’s Vivaldi Recomposed live in Auckland. It was such a stunning show.

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

Cliff Martinez - Solaris (Original Motion Picture Score)

A live, changing album for me. One of the most powerful and affecting orchestral scores ever written in my opinion.

Max Richter - Recomposed by Max Richter: Vivaldi – The Four Seasons

A stirring record. Beautifully rearranged, reinterpreted and recorded. A brave album to make given the purists that exist within the Classical and orchestral genre. Probably one of the most listened to albums of the last few years for me.

Micronism - Inside a Quiet Mind

Without a doubt, one of the best Electronic records ever made. Timeless.

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

I’d support Nashville band Hammock because they’re been a huge influence on me over the years. Unfortunately, they don’t play live often, if ever.

My rider would entail a raw veggie smoothly, a tank of pure oxygen and a pedicure. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Perseverance. Keep writing good music and opportunities will come your way eventually.

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

I’m a big reader. Nothing beats curling up in the sun and reading a good book.

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

I still think Cliff Martinez’s score for the film Solaris is one of the best scores ever written.

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Follow Rhian Sheehan

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INTERVIEW: ANTIBOY

INTERVIEW:

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ANTIBOY

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I am ending the day…

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by speaking with songwriter/model Harry Hains about his musical alter ego, ANTIBOY. The exciting artist speaks with me about the debut single, Devil, and what we can expect from the forthcoming album, A Glitch in Paradise – I ask what the future holds and which three albums mean the most.

ANTIBOY talks about personal heroes in music and how new songs comes together; the importance of Los Angeles in terms of inspiration and its vibe; what gigs are coming up (you can see ANTIBOY at El Cid, Los Angeles on Sunday 30th at 3 P.M.); how the Australian spends time outside of music – ANTIBOY recommends an artist we should all be aware of.

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

Hi! I’m pretty good!  My week’s been a little crazy. I was shooting a role on a T.V. series for Amazon; then another role for a feature film over the last few days, with a couple of big meetings coming up! It's a very exciting time right now for my career, however. I’m also in the process of looking for a new place to move in the next week which is always a little stressful.

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

My name is ANTIBOY; a gender-fluid android from the future stuck inside a virtual simulation glitch.

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How did ‘ANTIBOY’ come to be? What does that name symbolise and represent?

ANTIBOY was originally meant to be a rebellion against social constructs of modern-day society; particularly of what someone who’s male-born is meant to sing about, wear and represent in Pop culture. ANTIBOY is from a future where race, gender and sexuality (minus physiological desire) are no longer terms that are used.

So, if ANTIBOY was in the present, it would be confusing and disturbing to hear how much segregation and hatred has been made based on purely on the minor differences in physiology within the entire HUMAN race. There becomes only two ‘races’ on Earth - robot and human - and eventually they fuse together.

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

I think of my music as a blend between Lana Del Rey, Nirvana and the 1975 with its own unique flair; a genre I like to call ‘Glitch-Rock’ - a futuristic electronic element. I’m also very much inspired by FKA twigs, Twenty One Pilots; Years & Years, Lorde; Banks, Tove Lo and the fashion stylings and image of David Bowie and Lady Gaga at certain points in their careers. I did grow up around music.  My dad has a huge record collection and was constantly learning new instruments. 

My brother's taste in music showed me new genres of artists and music like ‘Future-Garage’ and more unknown artists like James Blake that I hadn’t heard of yet. He would introduce me to artists like that before they blew up.

Devil is your new single. Is there a story behind the track?

Yes. Devil is about someone bringing the worst out of you. Literally, “you shine the devil into me”; loving that person so much, but loving them is so harmful and is that obsession that destroys you and brings you to your worst self. It explores love as an addiction.

I believe an album, A Glitch in Paradise, is coming. What sort of themes and stories inspired the music?

A Glitch in Paradise is about a future where after we have merged with A.I. We reach a point in time where we can upload our consciousness to the ‘Cloud’. ANTIBOY, who is so addicted to a past relationship, is stuck in a loop of heartbreak as implanted memories continually get replayed over and over. In a world where we can create the perfect reality, our human minds will always bring us back to the pain and suffering of the love we never quite got over.

Are there particular moments when you sit down and write? How do songs usually come to you?

It’s always at a complete random point in time. It could be at 4 A.M. as I am lying in bed and I suddenly gasp and black-out - and then write an entire song that I don’t really remember writing. When the inspiration hits me, maybe it’s something someone says or something I read or hear or see or smell. I can write the lyrics to a whole song very quickly, as I’m very in touch with my emotional side and very good at spilling my emotions; expelling everything so it is removed from me.

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How does living in Los Angeles suit you? Is it a great place to work and create?

L.A. is the kind of city that is what you make of it. If you work hard at what you love - and are passionate and driven - you can make anything into a reality. I didn’t grow up singing. I wasn’t even a decent singer until I wanted to find a way to turn my poems into something people would want to hear which is when I started writing songs. I then spent a lot of time taking voice lessons and finding my voice as I worked on two other music projects including a musical I wrote.

Though, particularly throughout the process of this album - with help from my producers, A Jones and Zeus -, I found my own unique style. I wouldn’t have been able to bring this into fruition if it wasn’t for the team of people including them that believed in my vision and concepts and was able to help guide me in the right direction by turning my wild visual ideas into sonic ones.

This is the city of opportunities and, if you can’t get one, you can certainly find a way to make them. I booked my first lead role in a feature film the first month I arrived here. It’s a city where people care about who you are in this moment, not necessarily who you were in the past - and so you can reinvent yourself in Los Angeles until you’ve found what works for you.

Does your experience as a model and actor impact how you write about gender roles do you feel?

Getting to play around with a lot of different sides of myself, in different roles (or ‘characters’); I’ve managed to feel out differing points of view and experience them through the material. I’ve played the dumb, chauvinistic asshole and I’ve played the sweet, sensitive guy who treasures their partner to a fault. Through not only getting these opportunities, but also through my own life experiences, I’ve come to look at gender as something very different to sex; something to be explored, as femininity and masculinity are just too different forms of energy. 

They shouldn’t be use to represent your sex or your gender. I fluctuate comfortably between these energies. I don’t feel the need to define myself in any particular way. Gender is a social construct.  Gender roles need to hurry up and be a thing of the past. Our gender can be defined by us and we can choose how to play it.  No one else gets to decide that.

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

I hope to have released more of my album and to have successfully pitched the pilot of the T.V. show, A Glitch in Paradise, where each episode is based on a track from the album in a sci-fi musical about ANTIBOY.  The series outline is in development so I won’t reveal too much, however, that is my focus: to make this show a reality. 

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

That’s a tough question as there are so many great memories. Releasing my debut single around two weeks ago and it already being over 300k+ views on YouTube is a big one, as it shows all the hard work I’ve put into this and all the time invested. People are actually into it. However, my favourite memory was more a subtle one: when something clicked inside me after we were a couple tracks in on the album with my producers and we decided to go in a more organic, Rock direction and, somehow, I found my voice. 

We re-recorded the tracks prior to that. I found this new sense of comfort and confidence and we all got really excited; having a very strong feeling about how well this album could do; sensing that rock is making a comeback.

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

In no particular order, here are some of my top rated albums:

I like it when you sleep, for you are so beautiful yet so unaware of it - The 1975

It has this incredible atmosphere, being super-cinematic with very powerful lyrics and melodies. Bringing back Rock music in a new and interestingly emotive way (LOVE the songs Paris, Somebody Else and Change of Heart).

Born to Die - Lana Del Rey

Her soft, beautiful vocals and old-school, dark Hollywood glamour made this album incredible; something very elegant and timeless about her music with such a deep and honest sadness (Off to the Races, Summertime Sadness and Dark Paradise).

M3LL155X - FKA twigs

This E.P. is experimental, slightly bizarre and extremely original with an incredibly strong visual component. All the songs connect together in one extended music video that is mind-blowing. It feels more like an art film than a music video. She is so talented and conceptual. There is no way to even compare her to another artist as she truly does her own thing that no one else does. (Glass & Patron is my favourite song and video from it - amazing).

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

You probably saw it coming but it would be Lana Del Rey…which would include getting to perform one of my songs or one that I write with; or for her as a duet which is what opens up into her main show.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Work hard, think outside the box. Don’t make music that is so inspired by a current artist’s work that it just sounds like a version of them - that’s a year too old - but rather be inspired by multiple people and create your own sound or, in my case, genre, and think about yourself as a brand or concept. Play around with unique ideas and really go for it. Music is an art, so don’t try and be someone else; use what you have and make your personal side come into place. The most interesting musicians are the ones who are most authentic.

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

We have yet to organize my first tour as my first single only just came out, but a tour is definitely something that’s on our minds. I just came back from N.Y.C. where I had a couple of shows but will be ready soon for a proper tour. I have a show this coming Sunday, 30th Sept at El Cid (Wild Riot presenting Sundaze 12 P.M. til 5 P.M.).

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 IN THIS PHOTO: H.E.R.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a huge fan of H.E.R. Her album last year was so fantastic and after touring for a long time now, she has started to blow up which I knew was coming!

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

Well. When I’m not working or writing, I love to binge-watch T.V. shows. I just did that with the first two seasons of The Good Place which I really loved and currently I’m watching the new season of BoJack Horseman. Otherwise, hanging around with friends; meeting new people and connecting.

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 the interview! I’d suggest literally anything by H.E.R. This one has a special place in my heart, though:

H.E.R. - Pigment 

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Follow ANTIBOY

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INTERVIEW: Iyamah

INTERVIEW:

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Iyamah

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THE terrific Iyamah…

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has been telling me about Silver Over Gold and shooting its video. I ask how important her hometown of Brighton is and what sort of music she was exposed to as a child – she recommends some great rising artists worth some time.

I ask what comes next for her in terms of gigs and material and whether there are a few albums that are especially important to her; how she spends any time away from music – Iyamah provides some handy advice for musicians coming through.

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

Hey! I’m great, thank you. Just busy. I’ve been at home finishing off some songs and getting ready to go on tour next week! 

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

Sure. I’m a Soul singer; lover of Hip-Hop and Jazz. I try to combine all my musical influences into my own genre, which also includes Reggae and live sounds. Really, I’m a hippy kid from the sunny seaside town of Brighton. 

Silver Over Gold is your new track. Is there a story behind the track?

Definitely. The song means a few things to me really. It’s mainly about what influenced me growing up and my surroundings; being by the sea and diverse cultures and representing sounds from around the world.

But, it’s also about the value of things and how we carry memories with us in different ways like jewellery - but it doesn’t always have to be the most expensive or valuable that mean the most. It can be a place, or a person; those things come for free.

What was it like filming the video in Brighton?

It was honestly the best day I’ve had in a long time. Everything was perfect. The sun was shining and my whole crew and team were happy to be there! I was proud to call it my hometown and we managed to get exactly what we hoped for the video. It’s something about the energy and the vibe in Brighton during the summer.

How important is your hometown of Brighton? Did you grow up around a lot of music and local sounds?

100%! I think it’s the reason I love music so much. My mum was always playing music at home, but it was also all the parades and festivals; the festival attitude of life that you end up taking on and the travelling mind-set people have there too. I was encouraged to travel the world and explore sounds from around the world.

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

Next year! Sooner; sooner than you think.

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

Oh, I have many. I’ve always naturally been inspired by empowering women. Maybe it’s because I was raised by my mum but there’s something about female singers that gave me strength. I have my queens that definitely had an influence on my sound; maybe because they’re ‘woke’. They speak the truth.

I’d say they’re Erykah Badu, Jill Scott; Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill; Sade and, of course, Amy Winehouse. I’m sure a lot of singers of my generation would say those people! But, I also love the ones who influenced us all: Etta James, Whitney and Aretha. 

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

If I’m able to keep up the momentum, I’ll be happy. People have responded so positively to my music and that’s all I hoped for. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve had so far.

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

I loved shooting the video for Silver Over Gold. That’s probably the most proud I’ve felt of any of my work so far because I had a vision and Dalia captured it so well. It was the best feeling when we were able to share it!

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

Oooohh; probably the albums that take me back!

Kanye West - Late Registration; Sona Jobarteh – Fasiya and Bob Marley – Exodus.

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

Erykah Badu! And my rider would have halloumi and sweet potato fries…some hummus and pitta bread AND some Mount Gay Rum. 

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

Yes! So excited to be supporting Masego next week for his Europe tour. You can catch me at the London, Manchester; Paris and Amsterdam shows. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just be honest and real with yourself - that’s all you can do. But, make sure you always follow your gut! It’s always right. You got to take every lesson as it comes and only allow it to make you stronger and more powerful. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Isaac Waddington

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes. There’s a couple people coming through at the moment you might not have heard of who definitely deserve more recognition. Isaac Waddington. If you can see him live he’s probably got the best male vocals I’ve heard in a long time. Sam Wills is incredibly talented. Also…Raveena. Her music’s super-sweet and very chilled.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Raveena/PHOTO CREDIT: @raveena_aurora

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

I try to, even when there’s so much I have to do. I make sure I give my mind a break for at least ten-fifteen minutes a day to meditate! It helps me to focus and set the day right. I also make sure I eat good food - that helps break up the day. Some days I don’t do music at all because if I feel uninspired and I can’t force myself to be creative. I’ll go off and do something else, then come back to it. That way I know I’ll do a better job. Whether it’s going for a walk or seeing a friend.

But, those days don’t come often: I’m always doing something to do with music even if it’s writing notes, making plans for the week or recording ideas on my VoiceNotes. I like to be organised; it’s kind of addictive.

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).

Oooh…Sampa The Great - Rhymes To The East (edit). She’s amazing.

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Follow Iyamah

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INTERVIEW: Morley

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ebet Roberts  

Morley

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I have been spending time with Morley…

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PHOTO: Sandrine Lee

as she tells me about her forthcoming album, Thousand Miles (out on 5th October). She discusses the influence of New York’s Queens on her writing; how she came to music and what sort of sounds inspire her – Morley recommends some rising artists to follow.

I ask whether a U.K. tour is possible and which albums have impacted her most; if she gets time to unwind outside of music; whether music can bring people together and resolve disputes – she chooses a brilliant track to end the interview with.

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

Greetings! I am well, thank you. My week has been wonderful; packed with music and gatherings (a real need in these times).

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

I’m a singer, composer and poet. I write on the guitar, piano and percussion. I’ve made six studio albums of original material independently as well with major labels. My music is conscious; political, love and justice-driven…it addresses lust, love; loneliness, loss and the willingness to begin again. I am deeply influenced by global rhythms; Folk, Soul and Jazz. You can hear this in my music. I am very VERY lucky to be surrounded by genius and innovative musicians to collaborate with - this you hear in my music as well (smiles).

Thousand Miles, your album, is out on 5th October. Are there particular themes and ideas that inspire the music?

Courage, surrender; dignity, self-transformation; friendship and love. It is a culmination of songs after two years of global travel to post-conflict regions.

Do you find music can resolve conflict and bring people together? Does modern political turmoil affect the way you write?!

Music reveals our borderless hearts. Two people cannot speak at the same time to each other, but they can sing together. Two people may not be able to stand next to each other in the same room but they can certainly dance in the same room. I’ve seen it happen time and time again so, yes, music brings people together... 

Yes. My writing is always affected by what is happening politically, socially and communally. It is natural to be connected to the world around us and if I don’t write about it: I feel unnatural and can get very overwhelmed. Music brings me together with my own wellness in this way.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Ebet Roberts

How did growing up in Queens affect the way you write music and approach people? Is it a part of New York that seems to encompass every walk of life?

Queens is home to immigrants from all over the globe and a key component of New York City's melting pot. As a youth, I shared food, songs and dances with my friends…finding my reflection in others that are ethnically and culturally different than myself greatly informed the way I grew up, my writing and my thinking. It gave me insight of how similar we all are.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Sandrine Lee

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

Prince, David Bowie; Jeff Buckley, Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan; Mercedes Sosa , Sweet Honey in the Rock; Toshi Reagon, Joan As Policewoman; Somi, Meshell Ndegeocello; Meklit Hadaro, Daniel Lanois; Nina Simone, Paul Simon and Leonard Cohen

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

To do everything I can to help get people out to vote in our election.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Sandrine Lee

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

When I played the Nice Jazz Festival in Monaco with my good friend John Andrews on guitar, it was drizzling (it was outdoor concert) and the people were very far from the stage; seeking shelter from the rain. But, we just plugged in to get ready to play since it was still safe to do so. As soon as we started, people began to move towards the stage. By the end of our set, there were over a thousand people with us.

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

Nina Simone - Live at Ronnie Scott’s

Because of her songs God and King of Love - and how she sang it on that particular night. 

Mercedes Sosa - 30 Años

Because of how the crowd is with her.

Stevie Wonder - Innervisions

Because it is everything that ever was.

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  PHOTO CREDIT: Sandrine Lee

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

Working on it.

Will you come to the U.K. and play here?

Working on it. Can’t wait to return to the Barbican. I was there a few years back opening for Raul Midon at the London Jazz Festival.

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

Stevie Wonder. 1 d.i. box 1 mic on boom stand.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write what you feel, tell the truth about it; do not compromise your vision.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Be Steadwell

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Be Steadwell; Benjamin Clementine and Las Cafeteras.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Benjamin Clementine/PHOTO CREDIT: Protsko Nikita 

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

Not really, thankfully. I dance.

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’s - De Cara a la Pared

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Follow Morley

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INTERVIEW: laye

INTERVIEW:

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laye

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THE awesome laye…

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has been telling me about her latest track, milk n honey, and what its background is. I ask the Canadian artist whether there is more material coming up and whether she is always learning new things – I wanted to know how early music came into her life.

Laye reveals her favourite albums and touring plans; what advice she would give to artists emerging; a rising act worth checking out – laye shares her favourite musical memory.

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

Hi. I’m good, thank you. Sleepy. My week’s been nice. Had a few shows in Toronto and B.C. and I’m now back in Montreal.

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

My name’s laye and I’m an artist from Montreal. The last two-three years I’ve been working on music and I’ve recently started releasing it (go put it in your ears). I think my music always has a sort of longing feel underneath it all and a darker Alternative-Pop production to it.

milk n honey is your new single. Can you reveal how it came together and what its story is?

I was out in L.A. and I had a session with FnZ (Finatik N Zac) along with Lauren Christy - who co-wrote the song with me which was amazing. She wrote a lot of Avril Lavigne’s music that I loved growing up. We wrote the song pretty smoothly together and it was a really good feel.

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

More material coming this year. I’m back in the studio finishing up my album and I’ll be releasing a song on October 5th that I wrote two years ago. Getting nervous about that one: it’s coming up fast but I’m very happy about it finally coming out.

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

My dad would have Alternative music radio stations playing that definitely impacted me somewhat as well as my mom played a lot of Dido and Norah Jones. I think, in terms of my own exploration of music; that only came later. I didn’t have a phone or laptop for a lot of my growing up and, when I did, I started listening to a lot of acoustic sessions on YouTube and singer-songwriter-type music.

As an artist; are you always learning new crafts and sides to the industry? Is music a learning experience? 

Definitely. This year has been a huge year for growth. I’m currently self-managed so I’m learning a lot about the whole industry as well as on the creative side of things - I’ve gotten to experience so much more than I expected and meet so many new people. I’m constantly learning.

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

I want to get to a spot where I feel that I have the team I need around me to go full force in 2019. I want to release a lot of new music, new visuals and start doing shows. I don’t want to slow down. This year, I’ve started to finally put music out and, by the end of 2018, I want it to feel like it’s just the beginning and be happy where I’m at but without getting comfortable. 

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

I just recently flew out to Vancouver to play Westward Festival - opening for Cigarettes After Sex - at The Vogue. I never would have imagined that happening. That’s going to stand out for me for a bit.

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

That’s something that’s always going to change for me but, right now, I’ll say these guys:

Kodaline - In a Perfect World

Really helped me through a tough patch.

Leon Bridges - Coming Home 

It is a good way to start the day.

Dido - Life for Rent

My mom played it a lot when I was younger and two of the songs off of that album were the first songs I sang in front of people.

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

There would be so many different artists I’d love to tour with. Some of them don’t really make sense because of our musical differences, sonically. However; I’d hope our paths cross at some point. I think Lorde would be amazing; Locals Only Sound, Daniel Caesar; Leon Bridges and SZA.

Rider: wine and a warm blanket. Cozy. 

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

No tour dates just yet - hoping to start playing some small shows in Montreal, Toronto and wherever else it takes me right now.

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

It’s funny because you would think that it should be. For me, I’m getting used to it. I love it, but I love it once I get pass the fear - and there’s still a lot of fear there for me. I want to get to the point where I have nerves but I’m confident enough to enjoy it.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t get down on yourselves - it’s so easy to. And, if you do, try to recognize it and get out of it and keep pushing forward. Only you can be you so, as long as you’re doing that, nobody else is. 

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Locals Only Sound

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Locals Only Sound. A duo/collective from Toronto. They have some stuff out right now and a lot more on the way that’s really exciting.

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

Right now, things are pretty go, go, go but, when I do have downtime, I want to read more…and Netflix and wine. I just recently started and finished Game of Thrones so, if you have any recommendations, let me know (or books too, I guess) I also started getting into production myself, so downtime is sometimes still music for me - but, getting to work on my own things and explore other aspects of it.

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

I’m gunna go with If This Is Love - Xavier Omär

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Follow laye

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INTERVIEW: AyOwA

INTERVIEW:

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AyOwA

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AHEAD of their E.P. release tomorrow…

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I have been speaking with AyOwA about Farvel and what we can expect. They talk about their new single of the same name and what the story behind it is; how AyOwA got together and what sort of music inspire them.

I ask whether they are going on tour and what the music scene is like in Denmark right now; if they get time to chill away from music; who they’d support on tour if they had the chance – they end the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hi, there! Thanks. It’s been good but busy since we’re releasing an E.P. and getting ready to go on tour!

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

AyOwA consists of synth/piano player and producer Nicolai Kornerup and singer and composer Hannah Schneider, both from Copenhagen in Denmark. Nicolai does most of the production and Hannah mostly takes care of the lyrics and melodies.

We create our music in a basement studio in Copenhagen - that seldom see the light of day - but has a lot of good vibes and a grand piano. If you mix Noise-Pop with Electronica and melodies with improvisation, in an evocative and playful mix, that’s where you’ll find our music. 

 

Farvel is your new track. What is the inspiration behind the song? 

Farvel is a song that has had many different arrangements: from a big electronic track over complicated beats, until it eventually ended up in this simple version; recorded at the Wurlitzer in one take. We felt a song that sticks with you for that long has something it wants to say! 

It is from the E.P. of the same name (out tomorrow). Are there particular themes and ideas that influenced the songwriting? 

Hannah: Throughout AyOwA’s existence, there has been an underlying theme of saying goodbye to a loved one. I lost my father in the process of recording this E.P. and, naturally, it has been with me in the process of writing the texts and the melodies. Farvel means farewell and, in that word, there is both sadness and a wish for lighter and more hopeful times. I think this duality shines through the E.P.

How did AyOwA get together? When did you start making music? 

We’ve been friends since we were teens and we’ve played music together ever since. We decided to join forces in AyOwA almost three years ago.

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

We both come from ‘a home with a piano’. Nicolai’s grandmother taught piano and both Hannah’s parents and grandparents were Classical musicians. Music is a vital part of both our lives and we get weird when we don’t have it around! We are both inspired by a lot of Classical music like Debussy, Satie and Bach - but some of the bands that have brought us together are bands like Boards of Canada, The Internet; Cocteau Twins and Beach House.

You are based in Denmark. Is there a varied and strong industry there right now? Are there a lot of great local artists emerging?  

It seems like Denmark and Norway has always been standing in the shadows of the Swedish music industry when it comes to the Scandinavian scene but now it’s changing - lots of really interesting acts are emerging! The Danish music scene is small but really diverse and strong. There are a lot of interesting female artist coming thru like Soleima, Kwamie Liv and, of course Mø.

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

Not many months to go but, as we’re going on a big European tour supporting Faroese artist Eivør in October, we’ll be playing our music many new and exciting places and that has definitely been a goal for us since the beginning!

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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? 

We both had a really spectacular time playing Roskilde Festival last year- probably one of the peaks so far! 

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

Hannah: There are so many! But, if I can only pick one I think maybe the Bjørk album Homogenic is the most important to me

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

If you could fix us a tour supporting Massive Attack, Portishead; Björk and Cocteau Twins we wouldn’t say no!

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

We’re playing a release concert at Absalon in Copenhagen on Friday, Sep. 28th and then we’re going on tour with Eivør:

10.10. Teatr Szekspirowski - Gdansk Poland

11.10. Hybrydy - Warsaw, Poland

13.10. Chorzowskie Centrum Kultury - Chorzow, Poland

14.10. Hirsch - Nürnberg, Germany

15.10. Treibhaus - Innstbruck, Austria

17.10. Bleu Lezard - Lausanne, Switzerland

18.10. La Salle Du Cercle - Bischheim, France

20.10. The Control Club – Bucharest, Romania

22.10. The Studio - Norwich, U.K.

23.10. Patterns - Brighton, U.K.

24.10. The Globe - Cardiff, U.K.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through? 

Have something to say with your music! And keep saying it!  Some of the most interesting artists are the ones that keep evolving, and hang in there.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Pernille Smith-Sivertsen of Blondage/PHOTO CREDIT: @ventilstudio, @stefanwessel and @alicekaufmannjewellery

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

We love the Danish Electronic-Pop act Blondage; Art Pop-er ML Buch; fantastic Masasolo (who did a great remix of our song, Sommer - just sayin’) and check out newcomer Ida Kudo as well - she’s on fire!  

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Masasolo

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

We basically don’t! Funny, because it’s too true.

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).

Please play us Falling by Vera (ft. Okay Kaya) and we’ll be dancing through the night!  

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Follow AyOwA

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INTERVIEW: HEAVN

INTERVIEW:

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HEAVN

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I get to talk with HEAVN…

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about her single, High, and what the story behind it is. She speaks with me about changing her artist name and how her music has developed since the start; the sort of sounds she is inspired by – HEAVN recommends some rising artists to look out for.

I ask her if there are any albums that inspire her and whether we can see any gigs; what she hopes to achieve before the end of this year; how she spends her time away from music – HEAVN selects a cool song to end things with.

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

Hi, Sam. It’s been great! I’m just getting everything ready for my release and I’ve just shot my music video which will be coming out soon!

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

I’m a Dark-Pop/Indie singer-songwriter. Originally from Milan; I moved to London four years ago to follow my passion for music. I’ve graduated from BIMM last year and I’ve just finished my Masters in Songwriting and Production at Tileyard Studios. I used to release music under CarryLyanne, but I’ve just rebranded and changed my artist name to HEAVN.

What promoted the artist name change from CarryLyanne to HEAVN? Does it signal a new creative and personal phase?

Since I’ve started writing, I feel my style has developed in a different direction so I wanted a fresh start to release my new music under a different name. Everyone says my voice is very warm, so I thought something soft like ‘HEAVN’ would suit well.

Can you reveal the inspiration behind your new track, High? Is there a story behind it?

The track is about learning to love yourself first before you give love to someone else: “I can’t teach you how to love if you don’t love yourself”. I originally written the track inspired by My Week with Marilyn. The film follows the relationship between Marilyn Monroe and her personal assistant, Colin Clark.

It also shows Marilyn’s complex personality. She is unable to love herself and, as a result, cannot give love to Colin or anyone around her. Indeed, the intro of the song features samples from Marilyn’s interviews.

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

Definitely. I already have some new tracks which I can’t wait to share with the world!

How do you think you have evolved and changed as an artist since your earliest days? Do you feel you are more confident and assured than before?

To be honest with you, I don’t think I will ever feel assured! The more I get to know the music industry, the more I realise it’s just a big gamble! If anything, I feel I am more confident with what I want from my music and who I want to work with.  

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

It’s funny cause I was raised on Hard-Rock and Metal and everyone laughs when I say that! One of my all-time favourite bands will always be Aerosmith. However, I listen to everything; some of my favourite acts include Lana Del Rey, Halsey; ZAYN and Highly Suspect.

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

I am starting this new musical journey with HEAVN, so I’m hoping for my brand to become established and I want to start planning gigs for the New Year and get involved in as many songwriting camps as possible.

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

Yes. In June, I went to a songwriting camp in Nashville. I had the best week of my life creating music with talented musicians and producers and exploring a new city. I love working with people so, for me, it was an unforgettable experience and it really helped me to grow as an artist.

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

Christina Aguilera – Stripped

Great, raw vocals and emotions

Lana Del Rey - Paradise

It felt like something authentic and unique when I first listened to it and it had a big impact on my writing.

Aerosmith - Nine Lives

Reminds me of my youth - and Tyler is probably one of the best singers of all time!

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

Lana Del Rey!

For the rider, I would probably ask for a personal chef as well as a permission to have my hotel room filled with cats.

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

I’m performing my new music live for the first time at Two Brewery on 9th October at 6 P.M.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be true to yourself and always respect other people in the industry.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Måneskin

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Måneskin, Folly Rae and Two Feet.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Folly Rae

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

I like to read books; work out (when I’m not being lazy!) and just chill with my friends.

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).

Pink + White - Frank Ocean (smiles)

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Follow HEAVN

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INTERVIEW: Claire M Singer

INTERVIEW:

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Claire M Singer

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IT has been great speaking with Claire M Singer…

about the upcoming two-day festival, organ reframed, at Union Chapel, London. There is a lot happening at the festival itself - Friday 12th and Saturday 13th, 17:00, Spitfire Audio Composer Insights, £5; Friday 12th, 18:30, Visions in Meditation, tickets from £8.50; Saturday 13th, 12 noon, Daylight Music, pay-what-you-can; Saturday 13th, 18:30, Éliane Radigue and Hildur Guðnadóttir, tickets from £8.50; Friday 12th and Saturday 13th, Exhale, free for attendees to all Organ Reframed events – and singer talks about what we can expect; how she got involved and why she took to the organ.

I ask whether the organ itself is becoming more popular and what advice she would give to anyone wanting to take the instrument up. Singer discusses her start in music and how her work has changed through the years – she reveals whether organ reframed will be an annual festival.

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

Hi. I’m great, thank you! I’m just busy busy getting ready for organ reframed at Union Chapel in a few weeks’ time. It’s all go but hugely exciting to be pulling it all together.

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

Sure! My name is Claire M Singer. I’m from Aberdeenshire in Scotland but have been living in London for the past sixteen years (I moved here to study music at Goldsmiths). I compose, perform and produce acoustic and electronic music; I create audio-visual work and installations but, more recently, I have been focusing on composing and performing organ, cello and electronics. I have released two albums, Solas and Fairge, on Touch and my most-recent project has been writing the music for Annabel Jankel’s film, Tell It to the Bees, which has just premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.

I’m also music director of the organ at Union Chapel in London and I started an experimental organ festival in 2016 called organ reframed which is about to happen for the third time on October 12th-13th.

I am interested by your start in music. What inspired the 2016 release, Solas, and how did you approach recording of it?

I started learning cello at the age of seven and piano at eleven and, from a very early age, I much preferred to sit and write my own melodies on the cello and, later, on the piano rather than play the music my teacher had given me. I then started playing in bands from the age of thirteen (first on keyboards and later adding my cello and accordion) and, when I got my own Roland keyboard E-300 - which introduced me to multi-track recording -, my compositions expanded quite dramatically into multi-instrumental works and that was it, I was hooked.

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I never really wrote the notes down on manuscript: it was always recording the piano or cello onto tape or recording on to my Roland floppy disk. This approach is what led me to studio composition at university. I liked that you could instantly hear your composition come to life. As I was playing classically on the cello, but also playing in the band, my writing very much took influence from both styles and is probably why my music today straddles the Classical, Electronic and Contemporary fields.

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I started playing organ when I joined Union Chapel as music director of the organ in 2012. I have been composing for organ for about twelve years but the early pieces were written for another organist to play. Since I had keys to one of the most beautiful organs in the world (Father Henry Willis, 1877), I used to sit for hours on end and experiment. I’ve never had an organ lesson but I developed my own way of playing and slowly reduced the amount of electronics I was using. I experiment a lot with the mechanical stop action, which basically lets you precisely control how much wind enters the pipe. Over the years, I have learnt every single incremental sound you can make on the UC organ and that’s how I developed pieces like The Molendinar (on my first release, Solas). I have had many people ask me over the years what electronics I am using in the piece but it’s solo organ and everything is played in one take.

Solas features my organ, cello and electronic work which I wrote at the Chapel and also some earlier works (electronic and solo cello). It’s basically a collection of my work spanning fifteen years! 

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As a composer and artist; how do you feel your work has evolved and changed since the start?

I think my work has naturally evolved through time from drawing on various creative experiences - playing in bands and orchestras; studying composition at university - and a major turning point for me was when I started playing the organ. This ultimately developed my voice to where it is now. However, I think if you listened to one of my first-ever compositions you would still be able to tell that it is me. I feel like I’ve always had the same voice: it’s just constantly evolving as I have new creative experiences and still there is so much more to explore!

Was there a particular moment/artist that got you into music? Were you always curious when it came to sound?

Probably the most pivotal moment was when I started playing recorder in primary school which was soon followed by learning to play cello. It felt really natural to me and it was at that point I realised I could play by ear.

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Tell me about the festival, organ reframed, and how it came together. What can we expect to see from it?

The idea of the festival has been a long time coming since I wrote my first organ piece and wanted to share the secret of how amazing the organ is - but it didn’t come into fruition until October 2016. The first three years of my time as music director of the organ at Union Chapel was transitioning the organ from its full restoration into developing a program of concerts and educational workshops around it.

This three-year program was called the Organ Project which was funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund along with the full restoration of the organ. The Project gave me a chance to test the waters with different ideas and develop a regular organ concert presence at the chapel of all different genres. After completion in 2016, I felt ready to finally consolidate these ideas into a festival and organ reframed was born.

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The organ has one of the largest repertoires and has a strong Classical concert organ scene and that is equally important. In my opinion, we should embrace its historic repertoire and also help it to grow. There aren’t many contemporary composers writing for the organ as access can be tricky; most organs are in churches so you need to know someone with a key! In order to really explore and write innovative music you need time with the instrument. The main aim of organ reframed is to commission artists and composers to write new works; to allow them time on the organ to develop ideas and ultimately help develop the organ repertoire and show that this is an instrument that is very much at the forefront of new music today. To have the opportunity to build on the organ’s rich history and bring it to the attention of a new generation of artists feels hugely important.

This year, on Friday 12th, we have special screening of Visions in Meditation by Stan Brakhage with new works composed and performed by Philip Jeck, Sarah Davachi and Darkstar plus James McVinnie and London Contemporary Orchestra. On Saturday, Daylight Music - a fantastic regular lunchtime concert at Union Chapel - will be producing an organ reframed special with Terry Edwards, Seamus Beaghen; Douglas Dare and Deerful and, in the evening, we have new commissions from Éliane Radigue and Hildur Guðnadóttir performed by Frédéric Blondy, Hildur Guðnadóttir; James McVinnie and the London Contemporary Orchestra. Plus, a special documentary on Éliane working on her piece in Paris.

Throughout the weekend, we have a new sound installation by Kathy Hinde and Spitfire Audio Composer Insight with Dario Marianelli and Michael Price before the two evening shows. All work has been commissioned and created on our organ for the festival. 

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This is a unique festival that celebrates the relevance of organ. Do you feel it has played a huge role in historical culture and music?

The main aim of organ reframed is to contribute to the development of the wonderful existing organ repertoire by commissioning new works by contemporary composers/artists and encourage them to take the time to explore; take risks and create truly innovative work. I think the organ is having a bit of a moment in the contemporary/experimental music world and there is a definitely a fresh approach forming towards the instrument - and organ reframed is making a contribution towards that growth but it’s great to see projects happening all over the world.

This is definitely sparking the repertoire to grow in many different directions, like with other instruments but just on a lesser scale as access is still tricky.

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Is there any advice you would give to someone tackling the instrument who needs guidance?

As I came to the organ in a different way to most (no formal training), I’m perhaps not the best person to ask! As a musician and composer I would say, and this goes for any instrument, the best thing is to spend as much time as possible exploring, practicing and also recording yourself playing so you can listen and learn how to develop your technique.

Do you think the festival will be an annual thing? How far ahead are you looking?

I hope so! We are now in year-three. It’s always tricky as we are reliant on arts funding but I won’t give up without a fight! (Smiles).

You are the recipient of the Oram Awards. What was that like? What was your reaction?

I felt hugely honoured to have my work and practice endorsed by the PRS Foundation and the New BBC Radiophonic Workshop by receiving an Oram Award. It was a huge surprise and it’s such a wonderful award celebrating creative women. The award also profoundly resonated with me having studied in the EMS (Electronic Music Studios), Goldsmiths who played a key part in putting together the Daphne Oram Collection.

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Having composed music for the film, Tell It to the Bees; how do you feel film composition varied compared to studio/personal music? Do you approach it with a different mindset?

Tell It to the Bees is the first film I have worked on and probably the steepest learning curve of my entire career to date, but incredibly exciting and fun! The score is a mix of cello, organ; electronics and also orchestral from the brilliant London Contemporary Orchestra. It’s definitely a different beast writing for film as opposed to my own album material as you have to learn to hold back and take on more of a supportive role to the picture.

I had to learn this all pretty quickly but luckily I had an extremely supportive director who is very passionate about music so she really pushed me, which was hard but the best way to learn. Also, writing short cues was at first a challenge! (My own album material spans from seven-twenty-five minutes!) My style/voice didn't change but the thing that may surprise people is the orchestral cues. I haven’t ever previously released any of my orchestral compositions which are faster moving than my organ works. It was really fun to write notes on paper (or Sibelius) and also to bring all of my sound palettes together in one score.

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Will there be more material and music from you next year do you think?

I’m ready to get cracking on my third album after the festival. (Smiles). 

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

A more-recent favourite music memory is from last year’s organ reframed when Low wrote an extensive work for our organ. I’ve been a huge fan of the band for a very long time and it was truly magical what they created. It was especially exciting to then travel to Amsterdam and open for them at Westerkerk on their beautiful organ. Definitely a very special one for the memory bank.  

Do you find much time to relax away from music? How do you unwind?

I love going home to Scotland and it’s hugely important to me as it’s the only place I seem to be able to re-set. Walking in the hills, swimming in lochs…it’s good for the soul!

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 so much for having me! I’d like to choose Occam Delta II by Éliane Radigue. I still can’t quite believe that Éliane is writing her first organ piece for organ reframed this year! She is incredible and it is a HUGE honour for the festival. Premiering on 13th October, performed by Frédéric Blondy

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Follow Union Chapel/organ reframed

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INTERVIEW: Pleasure Craft

INTERVIEW:

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Pleasure Craft

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MIGHTY thanks to Pleasure Craft…

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for discussing his new single, It’s Not Real. The songwriter (Sam Lewis) discusses his tastes and what themes inspired his upcoming EP1 (out on 25th October). I discover how the Canadian artist got started in music and how pivotal it was moving to Toronto.

Pleasure Craft highlights some albums that mean a lot to him and a few rising artists we should back; what he has planned going forward in terms of gigs; whether he will come to the U.K. soon – he ends the interview with a great song shout.

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

Great! Release week is always crazy-busy but I’m excited to finally get this out there.

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

I’m an independent singer/beat-maker/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist. I live in Toronto. I study Jazz but I make Pop music.

It’s Not Real is your new single. What is the story behind it?

It’s Not Real was the first song I wrote for EP1. I wrote it in 2015 when I moved to Toronto from Salt Spring Island, B.C. That huge change in my environment was a bizarre experience. The song is about the surreal, unanchored feeling of starting out in a new city. 

The track is from EP1. Are there particular themes that inspired the music on the E.P.?

The whole E.P. is centred around identity and expression. How people see me versus how I want to be seen. The uncertainty of It’s Not Real develops into a series of questions and ideas on the other songs and eventually finishes in a place of confidence and security that I’m in the right place doing what I’m meant to do.

Tell me about moving to Toronto. Was that a pivotal moment for you?

Looking back, it seems like a big change: from rural B.C. to the biggest city in Canada. But, at the time, I never really questioned my decision. I knew that I wanted to make songwriting a career and moving here was the first logical step in doing that, so I did it.

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How did you start in music? Were you raised around a lot of music?

My parents are not professional musicians but there was always music playing in our house. My mum played classical flute growing up and was always very persistent in encouraging me to explore music.

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

I’ve actually already started recording EP2. It should be ready for mixing by the end of December. Also; I’m hoping to play a show a month in Ontario/Quebec in 2019, so booking that is a ton of work.

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

The first live Pleasure Craft show last December. It had been years of writing, recording; mixing and planning leading up to that and it felt like the start of something really exciting.

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

Talking Heads - Stop Making Sense

That album/film is the best-captured live show there is. The energy and stage presence is huge. I reference that all the time when I’m working on our live set.

Gorillaz - Plastic Beach

The album I listened to the most as a teenager. That album feels like another world that you step into when you listen to it. That music doesn’t try to be anything else; it’s not trying to be Pop or Indie or Hip-Hop. It’s not trying to cater to anyone and I respect that.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I am a very new artist myself so I should probably just shut up and listen.

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

The release party is October 26th at The Rivoli in Toronto!

Might you come to the U.K. and play? Do you like the music here?

Yes! My dad grew up near Birmingham so I have a dual-citizenship. Definitely planning on making good use of that.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Mouth Breather

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My good friend Mouth Breather is releasing an amazing album pretty soon. You’ll be hearing about him soon, I’m sure.

Also; check out Lovers Touch. I played keyboard in that band for a long time before I got busy with Pleasure Craft but I miss playing those shows. It’s great music.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Lovers Touch/PHOTO CREDIT: Emma Robinson

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

I need to get out of the city sometimes. I love the high energy and the ambition here but it burns you out after a while. I need to see the west coast whenever I can.

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

The song Velvet 4 Sale by U.S. Girls is what I have on repeat right now, that whole album is amazing.

Thanks so much for the interview! Great questions.

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Follow Pleasure Craft

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INTERVIEW: Sôra

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: @thomasbraut

Sôra

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THE awesome Sôra…

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Berrebictures

has been telling me about her new song, Sakura, and the story behind it. I discover the kind of music she was raised on and what we can expect from her upcoming E.P., Number One - she tells me how her downtime is spent.

Sôra reveals her favourite memory from music and which three albums are important to her; if there are going to be any gigs approaching; which rising artists we need to get involved with – she provides some useful advice for musicians coming through.

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

Hey, I’m great. The week has been busy, just as I like it! 

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

I’m a singer, songwriter and musician. I’m still studying Jazz - there’s always more to learn! Music is my life and has always been part of it. For those new to my music, I think it is a mix of many different styles that I’ve grown up with like Pop, Hip-Hop; Jazz, Soul; R&B and even Rock. 

Sakura is your new track. Is there a story behind the song?

Sakura is a song about the cycle of life and death so I guess there was, is and will be millions of stories behind that song. My dad passed away when I was young and, after that, I started questioning what happens after life ends. This questioning was a real inspiration for the song Sakura.

It is from your upcoming E.P., Number One. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the music?

Everyday life and the emotions I feel; human beings and the positive aspect of being a human. All the capacity that human beings share like strength, perseverance; resilience and, most of all, love…which is the key and the solution to everything. I’m an optimist!

Talk to me about your parents and upbringing. Did you grow up around a lot of music? How important was where you were living to you in regards inspiration?

Music was there all the time. My father used to mix and had a huge music culture. I remember my father sharing his taste in music and making me discover what he liked for hours; going from The Doors to Madonna. My mum used to blast the music out when we were all doing the housework, dusting and hovering with Ella Fitzgerald, Elvis Presley or The Jackson 5 in the background. From time to time, we’d stop and have a really good dance in the living room before continuing the cleaning! 

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PHOTO CREDIT: @thomasbraut

It seems like you are influenced by a wide range of sounds and styles. Do you think having that eclectic and curious mind lends your music greater width and potential?

I think being exposed to different cultures has made me more open to a big variety of music and sounds. The English, Spanish and French music scene is very different and I was lucky enough to experience all three. But, also, I’ve always loved very different sounds and enjoyed Classical music as well as Rap.

I think that, today, musicians have become so good in their specific types of music that what’s interesting is to do something very different and combine the sounds in a way that’s new and personal.

Do you tend to find musical guidance from new artists or are you keener on slightly older sounds?

Both! Creation is always enriching whether it’s old or new!

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

I hope to finish my first album and have a tour planned for next year!

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

Yes! My first concert with my partner Clement at Le Point Ephémère in Paris. The atmosphere was incredible; people were wild and it was the first time I shared my music with the public! I got so much back from the audience. 

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

The three album I’m choosing mean the most because they bring up warm and old memories and had an important role to play in my musical construction. But, it doesn’t mean they’re my favorite of all-time. That’s impossible to answer!

The Best of Earth, Wind & Fire, Vol. 1 from Earth Wind & Fire

It is really is part of my childhood memories. It’s a very joyful album and it was the period I started listening properly to the bass. At that time, I realized bass was one of my favorite instruments

B’Day from Beyoncé 

It is amazing! I used to have Hip-Hop lessons at that time and I remember watching those video clips when I came home from school and trying to copy the choreographies. Deja Vu was clearly my favourite in the album and the video was great! I also remember screaming my head off, trying to sing like Beyoncé!

The last one would be Baduizm from Erykah Badu

Because it has brought me closer to Jazz and closer to singing. I was so much in admiration when I discovered this album. All her gimmicks and her small rhythmical leads were so innovating. It’s one of my favorites.

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

Erykah Badu, of course. She’s a mentor for all the modern singers out there and has an incredible aura.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Berrebictures 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Never give up; always believe in your dreams and be true to yourself

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

I’ll be playing at Le Hasard Ludique in Paris on 28th September and there will probably be other opportunities between now and the end of the year. You can be sure you’ll be informed via the social network.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Danista

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve just discovered Danitsa. She’s a Swiss artist and does really cool hybrid Hip-Hop music. Really like her voice! And, if you haven’t heard of Charlotte Dos Santos…you should really listen to her album, Cleo. I love it.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Charlotte Dos Santos

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

No, not much time at the moment! If I do, it’s nice to spend time with my family and friends and the household animals! A dog and two cats! This time spent relaxing helps me get inspiration for songwriter and composing. So, I’m never totally cut off from music.

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

Trying Not to Die - Louis Cole (ft. Dennis Hamm)

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INTERVIEW: Werner Bekker

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Xavier Saer  

Werner Bekker

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I have been learning more about Werner Bekker…

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and what sort of music the South African artist was raised on. He discusses his current single, I’m with You, and what comes next for him; whether there are any rising artists we need to get involved with – I ask where we can see him on tour.

I discover what sort of music Bekker is inspired by and what the scene is like in South Africa right now; a few albums that are important to him; how he spends his time away from music – he ends the interview by selecting a cool tune.

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

It's been a lovely week here in South Africa. Spring has started to peak its head out and we just had our national heritage day celebrations, which is always an amazing time. It's great to see the amazing diversity and beauty that our people have.

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

I am a singer/songwriter from Johannesburg, South Africa. I grew up in a very artistic home. My dad used to be a full-time musician and my mum used to do a wide variety of visual arts. I am currently doing music as my full-time job and have been involved in the music industry in South Africa for around five years now.

I’m with You is your current single. Can you reveal the story behind it and how the song came together?

I'm With You is a song about the death of a relationship and how we as people tend to cling to the idealism of such a relationship. We often don't want to let go of the idea of something even though it has been long gone. In the song, I chose to use an old car as the metaphor for the relationship. This 'car' keeps breaking down and you don't want to let it go because of all the preconceived ideas you have built up around your feelings about this 'car'. The specific car that inspired the song was an old Volkswagen Beetle called Penny-Lane.

Will there be more material before the end of the year?

Unfortunately, we will not be releasing the next single before the start of next year. We are currently in-studio working hard to get a full five-track E.P. out by then as well as another music video. So, I can tell you that it will be well worth the wait.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Xavier Saer

How did you start in music? Did your family play a hand in your passion?

My family definitely played a massive part in my being a musician. As I mentioned earlier; my father was a musician for many year when I was a child. We used to tour South Africa with him and my mum, visiting all the major cities and festivals and I was really inspired by my parent's lifestyle. I started with piano lessons at the age of seven and have apparently been singing since before I could talk. I often think that, if it weren't for my parents, I would not even have thought about pursuing a career in music.

Which artists inspired you then and inspire you now regarding your sound?

I quite like music in the same way that I like books. I am very particular about it and when I find something I truly like I will listen to/read it over and over for the rest of my life. The first artists I really admired as a child must have been Jack Johnson, Damien Rice and Jason Mraz and, to this day, I am still listening to them and loving them. Current inspirations for me include Ben Howard (whom I discovered as a teenager), Hozier; Jake Bugg, Aliocha; Matt Holubowski and Fink. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: BOLD Photography

You are based out of South Africa. Is there a strong music scene there? What sort of sounds are trending right now?

There most definitely is a very strong music scene in South Africa. It can be very diverse, although the three most popular genres according to me would be as follows: Hip-Hop would be at number-one; most of our major radio stations are focusing on the current international boom in this genre. Secondly, the Afrikaans music industry has been a top seller in our country for many years and is still one of the strongest and quickest-growing.

Lastly, and my personal favourite; we have a flourishing underground scene that includes every genre from folky singer/songwriters to Metal to Ska-Jazz and so much more. This last category is the most diverse and also the smallest but it tends to have a very close following of dedicated listeners which appeals to me.

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

I must say I would love to have the new E.P. done and dusted and ready to release. This has also been my first year playing some major festivals and I am really looking forward to playing those as well. In all honesty, this year has been so great thus far that I don't really even know if I can expect anything more from it.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: BOLD Photography

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

I think it's hard to pick one moment. They all sort of amalgamate into one big blur of awesome experiences but, if I have to choose, I would probably say my first performance at my high-school was a major moment for me. That's about eight years back now and, at that point, I didn't even know how much I loved doing this but it planted a seed. It was an amazing night. 

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

Firstly; Damien Rice's O

He recorded this with a small 8-track recorder in many cities across Europe and you can hear the true emotion and delicacy in every single word that he sings.

Secondly; Ben Howard's Every Kingdom

This story is similar in that this whole album and the E.P.s running up to it were recorded in a barn by Ben and his two band members. The feelings and emotions are so real that it almost feels like you can touch them.

Lastly; Jack Johnson's Brushfire Fairytales

It was probably the first artistic work that got me to think and dream in a musical fashion and I have been listening to it since my first ever road trip. It is arguably one of Jack's most honest and serious albums which has grown on me so much. It's like watching Friends for fifteen years and laughing and finding new jokes every single time you watch it again.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Xavier Saer

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

Definitely Damien Rice…

I would not want much from a rider perspective - maybe just a bottle of good wine and a quiet room with an old-school record player so that we can share inspiration and talk about the processes we follow. I would love to pick his mind and truly understand the inner-workings of his writing and recording processes.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just be you: only you can sound like you and that's the only thing that puts you aside from every other artist out there. Also; keep pushing a dream that you believe in, not someone else’s.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Greylin…Photography

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

My next festival dates in South Africa are 27th September at White Mountain Acoustic Festival and then over New Year’s at Smoking Dragon. Both these festivals take place in the beautiful Drakensberg and are a must-see for music and nature lovers alike. 

Might you come to the U.K. and play? Do you like the music here?

It is one of my all-time dreams to do a tour in the U.K. and myself and my team are hard at work trying to make it happen.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Matt Holubowski

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My current favourite new artists include Matt Holubowski and Aliocha as well as some South African acts such as Bad Peter and Stone Jets.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Aliocha/PHOTO CREDIT: williamarcand.com

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

Yes, of course. I love woodwork and building this around my house (sometimes, I only manage to destroy them) and I also love traveling and hiking and being in nature. Most of the time, however, I spend my time of playing The Sims 4.

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).

Please could you play Shrike by Hozier

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Follow Werner Bekker

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INTERVIEW: TIEKS

INTERVIEW:

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TIEKS

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I have been speaking with TIEKS…

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about his latest single, Break the Rules, and what the story is. He discusses what it is like getting backing from big names such as MistaJam; the albums that are most important to him; what he has planned in terms of gigs – he recommends a rising artist to follow.

I ask whether he gets time to unwind away from music and whether more material will come; the advice he would give to artists emerging; which musical memory is most precious to him – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

My week’s been good, thanks. Spent a lot of time in my studio creating new tracks - that's always great.

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

My name is Mark Tieku more commonly known as Tieks. I produce and write Pop records. Pleased to meet you.

Break the Rules is your new song. What is the story behind the song?

I work closely with another writer, Jay Weathers. He produced and co-wrote My Lover for Notes. Every few months, we meet up and play each other the music we’ve been working on to see where we can cross-pollinate Ideas. Break the Rules was a demo that he had started with Bobbie but had sort of hit a roadblock in their minds.

Jay played it to me. I loved it; got bass and guitar played on it; arranged it, finished the production - and a demo turns into a ‘record’ I wanted to make in New York in the summer of 1981.

It features Bobii Lewis. How did you two come to meet?

I didn’t meet Bobii until after I had finished the track to be honest. He came to my studio after myself and Jay had done our bits and he loved it.

You have received support from big names like MistaJam. How does that make you feel?

It’s always great to get love for my records no matter where it comes from. I register it and appreciate it but, yeah, guys Like Jam and Clara at Radio 1 have been massive supporters of all my records. I think it’s safe to say in regards the hits I have had, the guys at Radio 1 have definitely played a part in getting those songs the traction I needed.

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What comes next in terms of material? Might we see more songs next year?

What comes next? Another song. There will be more songs in the next year that’s for sure.

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

I don’t think I ever got into music at any point cause I think it’s been something with me from birth. Artists like Daft Punk, Bowie; Prince, Apex twin; Radiohead and Wu-Tang. I could go on. Like many musicians, I am a sum of many parts.

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

Serenity.

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

My favourite memory is being in a cocktail bar and my manager messaging me to tell me my track had broken into the top-one-hundred on iTunes. Twenty minutes later, he texted to say it had hit eighty; twenty minutes later fifty etc, etc. I think it ended up at twelve that night and was in the top-five by the morning. Surreal.

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

Discovery - Daft Punk

For me, I have taken so much from all of Daft Punk’s records barring their last one which, ironically, was probably their most successful. However, Discovery, in my opinion, is the greatest Dance album ever made. It’s one part Prog-Synth; one part Pop; one part Disco and three parts House. A genius record.

My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West

The absolute zenith of Kanye’s music career in my opinion. Everything before led up to that record and everything after didn’t live up to it. It’s an encyclopedia of Hip-Hop history with a foot in the present. Kanye is a straight-up fool a lot of the time but no one can deny he is a giant of a music curator.

Micheal Jackson – Dangerous

The greatest Popstar the world has ever know at the peak of his powers. People talk about off The Wall being Michael’s best album but that’s just because it makes them sound cool. The reality of Thriller is that it’s an ok record with some incredible singles but any record with Baby Be Mine on it just doesn’t cut the mustard for me. Bad is an amazing album but, for me, Dangerous shows an artist in absolute control of what they are trying to do. Also; Teddy Riley kills the production alongside M.J.

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

It would be a toss-up between Travis Scott or Lorde.

My rider would be what it is right now: some high-quality gin (which I never usually drink); a few bottles of water and two black towels.

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

Yeah. I’m occasionally playing dates around the country. Next is Chester for freshers’ week.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If it doesn’t work out and you have to work in Tesco; get over yourself cause that’s what every other person has to do life. It’s normal: a successful job in the entertainment industry is not. But, if it does go well and everyone is stoked on you,  enjoy it; get over yourself and be ready for when they’re not stoked on you.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Akheim Allen is an incredible young rapper from London who people need to check out.

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

I’m in the studio most of the time but my downtime is mostly spent watching movies and reading a lot of books. Movies are my first love. I probably watch around four a week. Don’t be surprised if you see I’m making movies/loving image in the future.

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).

Robyn - Missing U

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INTERVIEW: Hollow Hand

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Wanda Martin 

Hollow Hand

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IT has been cool speaking with Hollow Hand’s…

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central figure, Max Kinghorn-Mills. I ask him how he started Hollow Hand and how he met the musicians he plays alongside; what we can expect from the debut album, Star Chamber, and whether there are any rising artists worth checking out.

Kinghorn-Mills discusses his musical influences and what Brighton is like as a base; what is coming up in terms of tour dates; a few albums that are especially important; how songs usually come to him – he tells me what the rest of this year holds.

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

Hello. I’m doing well, thanks. I’ve been busy playing some shows in California and exploring sun-kissed San Pedro.

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

My name is Max. I record music under the name Hollow Hand. The project began in the solitude of my bedroom; recording to cassette and experimenting but, for this album, I expanded through collaboration. Star Chamber is out on 19th October and is produced by Pan Andrs and Atlas Shrugs. We made the record in our home studio at the bottom of a garden. 

How did Hollow Hand come to be? When did you all meet?

We come from a tight-knit community of musicians and friends in Surrey/Hampshire. I’d always loved watching the other guys play in their bands and played with them in other projects. We really just pitch in to play for our friends whenever they have music to put out.

 

Is Brighton important in terms of your music and direction? Do you take inspiration from the people around you?

We moved down to the coast from London in some attempt to find inspiration; to ‘get it together in the country’, for sure. Brighton has some great bands and decent-sounding venues, a lot of energy. I enjoy being close to the sea. Just spending some time by the shore can help me with my existential dread. Staring into that crystal blue abyss, it’s good to surrender…

The Hollow Hand debut album, Star Chamber, is out on 19th October. Are there particular themes and stories that inspired the music/songs?

I didn’t really notice lyrical themes until I was asked these questions…

Of course; the books I was reading influenced the writing. I remember the sentiment of End of Everything; questioning what I really need from this world to be happy. This was on my mind whilst reading some books on different religious views. I spent time with a great book called Conversations About the End of Time. It’s good to remember how small we are in this universe - after that, everything’s just kinda funny. There are plenty of other lyrics on the album dealing with love, isolation and the pursuit of happiness.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lauren Joy Kennett

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

My parents surrounded me with art, culture and music all my life. I’m so grateful to them for this. Some of my earliest memories are dancing around the house to music with Mum and Dad’s cassette mixtapes and records lining the house.

I think, in terms of Hollow Hand, I’m feeling the influence of artists like Syd Barrett, Kevin Ayers; Robert Wyatt, Gong and Grateful Dead. Some British Folk stuff like Fairport Convention, Steeleye Span. I love instrumental music: Bill Evans, Emahoy Tsegué-Maryam Guèbrou; some Steve Hillage stuff.   

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Are there particular moments when you sit down and write? How do songs usually come to you?

I mostly start with music. if I discover a cool part on any instrument, I’ll record it. My phone is full of excerpts. I’ll live with them and sing along before picking up journals then consider themes/stories I want to explore. I rarely start with words. I have friends who are the total opposite so this is interesting and worth investigating. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Wanda Martin

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

Of course, I want to tour the entire world. I’ve just moved into a new place where I’ll set up a new studio. I’ve got a whole new record written/planned but I don’t know if it’s right yet. When I get back to Brighton next month, we’re excited to hit the road promoting Star Chamber (supporting Sam Evian). I have some collaborations in mind but, if I hit Christmas with everything set up for the next chapter, I’ll be happy. 

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

I live for those rare moments when I turn around on stage and the band is truly connected; I mean really together. This could happen on a festival stage or the smallest venue. Nothing beats it. Supporting Robyn Hitchcock was fun; getting to travel to festivals. I was hugely inspired working with Tim Smith on his new project (Harp).

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PHOTO CREDIT: Hannah Kovacs Photography

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

Hard question. It changes often but usually these are the constants:

Pink Floyd – The Piper at the Gates of Dawn

Is there really only one Pink Floyd album? Nah, but when I found this album I truly fell in love. Eternal hazy summer nostalgia.

Sonic Youth - Evol

When I was in school, my room was a graveyard of burnt C.D.R.s; bootleg live shows. I was doing a lot of research and getting the knowledge. Daydream Nation, Sister and Murray Street were all on heavy rotation but this record is just a shining jewel to me.

Richard & Linda Thompson - I Want to See the Bright Lights Tonight

I’ve recently started choosing this album over Liege and Lief - still working out how that sits with me. Richard’s up there in my top guitarists and songwriters of all time (that’s two separate lists). I love how joyfully miserable the songs are. Totally immersive and timeless.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lauren Joy Kennett

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

It’s Derek Smalls from Spinal Tap. My rider is a double bass and we’re improvising… 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Hey, that’s me! I have no idea what’s going on out here - I don’t think anyone does. Just stay true to yourself, I suppose? Don’t believe in shortcuts. There are so many different types of musicians; some find it easier to make a living. I chose to make the music I want to make but, as a result, things can be very difficult. If you’re making stuff for other people then perhaps it’s easier but that’s not something I’m interested in. If you take my advice then I guarantee you’ll be as huge and successful as I am. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Wanda Martin

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

We tour the U.K. through October!  

*Supporting Sam Evian

16.10 - Edinburgh, Sneaky Pete’s*

17.10 - Glasgow, The Old Hairdresser’s*

18.10 - Newcastle, The Cluny 2*

19.10 - Manchester, YES (Basement)*

20.10 - Leeds, Headrow House

21.10 - Leicester, The Cookie*

22.10 - Milton Keynes, The Craufurd Arms

23.10 - London, Rough Trade East (in-store 1 P.M.) (Then Hoxton Hall)*

24.10 - Brighton, The Hope & Ruin*

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Hannah Lou Clark/PHOTO CREDIT: Rob Blackham

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Maybe it’s best if I just point to some great musicians you may or may not be aware of: The Lunchtime Sardine Club, Eugene Quell; Hannah Lou Clark, Holly Macve and Clarence Clarity. They’re all releasing brilliant music right now.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Holly Macve/PHOTO CREDIT: Lauren Joy Kennett

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

I find it hard to turn off.  I never really manage it. It’s the same for most of my friends. I read, try to navigate the vast ocean of nonsense for one good film; go walk along the beach. I’m interested art, and drawing. When I’m watching/reading something great then I’m always making notes, so I suppose it’s a struggle to find some real rest. That isn’t fun.

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).

Why don’t you sit back and spend some time with this killer Dark Star from '72? 

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Follow Hollow Hand

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INTERVIEW: Francine Belle

INTERVIEW:

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Francine Belle

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THE amazing Francine Belle…

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has been telling me about her debut single, Beautiful Heights, and how it came to her. I learn about her musical influences and what we can expect next; what it was like performing alongside Sir Elton John – she discusses moving from Paris to South London and whether she gets time to chill away from music.

The songwriter talks about Solange and a few albums that are important to her; whether there are any rising artists we need to get behind; what she would say to emerging songwriters; if there are any tour dates coming along – Francine Belle ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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

I’ve had a great week. Seeing the response to the Beautiful Heights has been so wonderful. For a long time, it’s been just me tinkering away in my studio like a mad scientist so releasing the music finally is like dusting off the cobwebs…stepping out into the world…getting some sun…getting some air...Communicating with fans of my music - it’s been transformative!

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

I’m a London-based singer, songwriter and producer. I’ve been singing, writing and performing for years but the producing happened more recently. Through recording vocals and compositions at my home studio, I taught myself how to make the music I want to hear and have wound up with a debut album, which I’m in the process of finishing now.

Beautiful Heights is your debut single. What is the story behind the song?

It came to me in a dream. It was more of a feeling rather than anything intellectual and that’s what I wanted to invoke with the production. I think that’s why I kept it as voice. A lot of my songs start that way, with vocal layering, and the vocal compositions get replaced with whichever instrument I was trying to emulate but, with Beautiful Heights, I wanted it to remain ethereal. It started as vocals and handclaps and ended as vocals and drums. Even the bassline is vocals.

The male vocals are by acapella arranger Ben Bram, who thankfully agreed to work on the song after I sent it to him. That was such an honour – I’m a huge fan of his.  The dream version was majestic and soaring and I spent months and months trying to capture what I heard and make it real.

Is there going to be more material coming next year?

Yes - and maybe even before! My album, Myths & Legends, is almost complete and due in 2019, but I hope to release more singles ahead of that.

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I understand you have performed backing vocals for Sir Elton John! What was that like?!

It was great! I was doing B.V.s with him and Bright Light Bright Light. Elton is down-to-earth and took the time to shake everyone’s hand and say hello. He has some astonishing diamond rings. Astonishing.

You were born in Paris but raised in London. Was there a reason for relocating to London?

My parents are academics and so were in Paris for their studies. I was a baby, so I don’t know the reason, but wagering a guess I’d say my parents decided Paris wasn’t glamourous enough for their baby girl and picked South London instead.

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I hear shades of artists like Solange in your music. Who do you count as musical influences?

What a compliment! A lot of my songs were written and produced before A Seat at The Table came out but I do love that record. I’d say it makes sense you hear shades of Solange in my music because I think we both cite Minnie Riperton as a great influence (those whistle vocals and harmonies do it for me). I really like Lana Del Rey’s Born to Die album because I love cinematic and epic sounds and live orchestration which you’ll hear more of in my other songs. Quincy Jones is an ultimate influence, because he wasn’t afraid to play with orchestral and majestic sounds in Pop.

He did all of that and kept the soul in the music too. It’s wasn’t just production; it was alchemy. It was magic. The M.J. albums he did are the greatest works of all-time in my opinion. I love Patrice Rushen for the same reason; that epic orchestration - and because she wrote and produced as well. Disco is sometimes discounted as a musical genre but some of the production can really give you goosebumps. Haven’t You Heard by Patrice is one of the best songs ever. I’ve got a Disco song on my record and if I’ve captured even a tenth of that joy and energy I’ll be happy.

How important were your family and your Nigerian heritage regarding your approach to music and how you write?

Very important. My brother Leo is a singer and I cut my teeth performing backing vocals for him. I grew up around music, so the concept of being ‘talented’ didn’t really occur to me as a kid. One of my teachers took me to one side after I sang in front of the class one time and told me I was very talented. Before that, I thought singing was something everybody could do. Everybody did it at home. It wasn’t until I got a bit older that I realised what I had and also the depths of my need to create, as well as sing.

I think Nigerian music is very much about melody, harmony and beats. Although it’s not a conscious effort on my part, I find that everything I write always comes back to that. I want to feel driven by the drums and moved by the melodies. Afrobeat and Highlife music do that and my music tends to do that too, in a different way.

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

One more single and a much wider audience to share my art with.

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

I’ve had some great times touring with different bands, whether as a front person or a backing vocalist. Touring is such a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Never the same each time. Even when I’ve been sick, homesick or heartbroken; I always think of touring as some of the best times of my life. I can’t wait to tour with my music soon.

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

Such a difficult question! I’ll probably pick something different on a different day but, at the moment, it’s Sade’s greatest hits; George Michael’s greatest hits and any album by Michael Jackson (except the posthumous ones he didn’t sign off on) because they’re all just masterclasses of songwriting, emotion; narrative and voice.

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

Honey and lemon on my rider is a must. Beyond that, I’m pretty easy-going. I’m there to perform, not to move in.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I think the advice would change depending on the artist and what they want to achieve. There are some universal truths, though and, even though it sounds trite…staying true to yourself is the best advice I can give. I’ve had a lot of ups and downs in music but that’s always seen me through and kept me grounded.

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

I’m preparing for a live showcase in October that I’m doing in collaboration with this exciting new artist platform that I can’t wait to talk more about! Hopefully, a few more before the New Year.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Stanaj

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I really love The Way I Love Her by Stanaj. I heard it online randomly and his voice is incredible. There’s an acoustic version which is sublime too. The Chloe x Halle record is fire. And Azealia Banks is an artistic tour de force. I’m a proud Kunt t.b.h.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Azealia Banks

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

Music doesn’t feel like work to me, so chilling is usually when I find time to sign off on mixes and masters my producer sends me. Otherwise, I walk the dogs and will watch some Game of Thrones when it’s on. Winter is here!

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).

Don’t Play It Safe by Cassie. It’s a bop and it’s relatable

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INTERVIEW: Kimono Loco

INTERVIEW:

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Kimono Loco

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I have been speaking with…

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James from Kimono Loco about the band’s new E.P., Hello, How Are You? He talks about the inspirations behind the E.P. and whether he has a standout from the collection; how Kimono Loco started life and whether there are any gigs coming up.

The lead vocalist/guitarist tells me what sort of music he grew up around and which one album means the most to him; if he gets time to unwind away from music; which rising act we should get behind – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

James: Really good, thanks. Our week’s been pretty crazy with the E.P. release but it’s been a lot of fun!

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

We’re Kimono Loco, a London-based Indie-Pop band. We’ve been described as ‘An eclectic mix of styles from indie rock to dance, disco and electronic music; all engaged in constant conversation with their deeply-rooted pop sensibilities’ if that makes it easier.

Hello, How Are You? is your new E.P. What kind of things inspired the songs we hear?

We wanted to be a lot more fun on this E.P. Our older stuff maybe took itself a bit more seriously and we kind of threw that out the window on this one. We wanted a bunch of songs that people could really dance to at gigs and it’s worked; our shows are better than ever.

Do you have a favourite song from the E.P. at all?

I think we all love Big Boy cause of how ridiculous it is - although, Fright Night is a lot of fun to play live so it changes really.

How did the band start life? When did you change your name from ‘Regions’ to ‘Kimono Loco’?

The band sort of all formed at this one pub in Fulham called the Durell Arms. My best mate (Alex Sonnenberg - drums) and I were quite drunk one night and decided to ask the band who were playing if we could do a few songs. They reluctantly accepted and we did a terrible rendition of Thrift Shop by Macklemore weirdly enough. I had been writing loads of songs at the time and we basically agreed that we should start playing again (we had been in an atrocious Metal band in our early teens). We put an ad out that week and got a response from our now-bass player, Luke Hamlin.

We met at that same pub and he later introduced us to his best mate Chris Godfrey (guitar). It was basically two best mates coming together, as romantic as that sounds. We started under the name ‘Regions’ back when we didn’t really have an identity. We weren’t too sure how we should sound and I think that was quite clear as we constantly changed, stylistically, with each release. With a shared hatred for the name, we took the leap and went for the change to ‘Kimono Loco’ a few months back and we’re very glad we did.

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

 You’d find a lot of Emo music in my collection - that stuff is my guilty pleasure. To be honest, it’s kind of what made me want to be in a band in the first place, especially in regards wanting to play the guitar. I think the first album I ever really got into was The Black Parade by My Chemical Romance. Haha.

How important is London and its variety in regards the way you write and create music?

I’m not really sure how much London as a city inspires us, musically. It’s, of course, where we all live but nowadays the world’s so globalised that you have access to anything you want to listen to at the touch of a button. I’d say it’s more down to what we’re all listening to at the time of writing then where we geographically are. There is a big Indie scene in London although I don’t think we’ve ever felt truly part of it.

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

2018 is coming to an end rather quickly so I think you’ll see a lot of exciting things happening in 2019 for us. However, I’d expect there to be a lot more gigs; some of which we’ll be playing some new material at.

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

Our most-recent gig (our E.P. launch) kind of blew our minds. We had a packed-out room dancing and singing along to all the words; it was incredible – by far the best gig we’ve ever played.

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

Sticky Fingers - Land of Pleasure

It is definitely one of my favourite albums. I randomly bought it on vinyl when I was in Australia and I’ve been listening to it ever since I love it.

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

We’ve been compared to The 1975 quite a lot so I think they’d be amazing to support.

As for our dream rider, I mean you’d have to go waayy over the top wouldn’t you? I’d say we’d want the entire cast of the 2003 masterpiece The Room and a bunch of fresh fruit because fresh fruit is delicious.

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

Our only current date is at Roadtrip & The Workshop on 5th of October but you can check out Facebook page for any future gigs.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Try and figure out what you’re about as soon as you can. It took us a while to find a proper identity and we’re arguably still in the process but, as soon as a direction becomes clear, everything starts to flow quite nicely.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: KOPPS/PHOTO CREDIT: Harry Eelman

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been getting into this band called KOPPS. They’ve got a really cool ’90s sound which has been coming back recently. I’d definitely recommend checking them out.

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

We all do different stuff to be honest. Going for drinks is a big one - we’re all suckers for a night out. But, to be honest, playing as a band is loads of fun anyway so you need to unwind far less then you’d think.

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).

KOPPS - Thermometer

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Follow Kimono Loco

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INTERVIEW: St. Humain

INTERVIEW:

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St. Humain

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WITH Fever Vibe out there…

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St. Humain has been talking about the song and what its story is. I ask whether there is more material coming next year and what the next steps are; why the Singapore-born artist moved to Australia – he recommends some rising artists to watch.

St. Humain talks about his influences and some albums that have impacted him; what advice he would give to artists coming through; how he spends his time away from music – the songwriter tells me what he hopes to achieve before the end of this year.

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Hi, St. Humain. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello! I’m doing good. This week’s been absolutely crazy in a good way – every release week always is and it’s such an exciting time getting the song out!

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

I’m an artist who tries to tell my honest stories; songs of human experiences and connections that hopefully relate to everyone. I mostly make all my own stuff: singing, songwriting; producing…the whole lot.

Fever Vibe is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

Yes, it is! I’m so pumped for everyone to hear it. It’s inspired by young love. I believe that there’s that common exciting feeling throughout the early stages of all relationships and Fever Vibe is my attempt at capturing that in a three-minute song. Something for all of us to dance to!

Do you think there might be more singles coming next year? How far ahead are you looking?

Next up is my debut E.P. called EMOTIONAL SAUNA coming in January - it’s an eclectic mix of songs that will tell the story thus far. We’re getting things finalised on my end here in Sydney and it’s looking to have seven tracks!

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You were born in Singapore but are based in Australia. What was the reason for the move?!

I moved to Australia some years back for my studies and haven’t really left! It’s so lovely here and I guess you can say that I’ve got two homes now. Sydney is a lovely place and the weather is great when it finally makes up its mind. Haha. The coffee is stunning as well; you should totally come visit! 

What sort of music did you grow up around? Were you subjected to a wide range of sounds?

Definitely. I grew up listening to the radio actually! Pretty much every night going to bed I would have the daily countdown on and wouldn’t go to sleep till I found out who was number-one. Back then, it was Britney with I’m Not a Girl, Not Yet a Woman and the Backstreet Boys fighting it out for top spot. I also listened to Ryan Seacrest and Rick Dees’ top-40 on weekends. Yeah, I know: I’m such a sell-out.

But, listening to the charts made me have an appreciation for the Pop world…only for me to learn the guitar at fourteen and going into Blues, Jazz and Soul. I think this combination has led me to my sound, at least for now!

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

If I could, I’d wish for world peace. But, since all I’ve got are songs…I’d hope that as many people hear them but, more importantly, that my music connect with others on a personal level. To make others’ lives better; to remind them that they’re not alone feeling what they feel; to make everybody dance along to life.

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

I still remember the first time the industry took notice of me - I know it’s not the goal here but it gave me some sense of validation that what I was doing actually was worthwhile to some degree. On a personal note, an old friend of mine heard a song of mine and shared that it actually helped them move on from a break-up. That meant so much to me.

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

Oh, gosh; why would you do this to me!

John Mayer’s album, Continuum, is on the list for sure. It marked the time in high-school for me; getting all emotional over this girl I liked.

Another one is perhaps more curious: Westlife’s Coast to Coast. Don’t judge, but it’s the first album I ever bought and it brings back thick memories of falling in love with music.

Lastly…I know she calls it a mini-album but Julia Michaels’ Nervous System is one that means a lot to me right now. It’s raw, honest, and solidly so melodic. I get the feels.

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

Julia…if you ever see this I’d love to come along! I’d also totally support Maroon 5 right now. I think their new album is amazing.

My rider would definitely also have plenty of water, gin and tonics on the Hendrick’s and cucumber please…and Italian pizza.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t give up. Find your vision, keep refining yourself and persevere. If music’s your thing, brave the world; the industry; the people around…and don’t stop creating.

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

I’m working on it! None just yet but, hopefully, I can take my E.P. live after it releases in January 2019.

Might you come to the U.K. and play? Do you like the music here?

Yes. I’d definitely love to come to do some shows in the U.K.! I love the music that’s been coming out too - acts like Anne-Marie, Dua Lipa and Jax Jones immediately come to mind. A close artist friend of mine, Sätilä, actually just moved to London the day my new single got released and it would be lovely just to go there to visit him if anything!

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been heavily reliant on 6LACK’s new album. But, for something more poppy - Clara Mae, Sigrid; Leland and… is Lauv still considered new?

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Clara Mae

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

I think I’m kinda obsessive so I actually need to get better at chilling out. But, I often unwind with food - eating it, cooking it; watching Bon Appétit videos. That’s my thing.

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).

Hey, Alexa. Play Say My Name by Tove Styrke. Cheers; thanks for having me!

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Follow St. Humain

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INTERVIEW: Soheill

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Kristen Balani 

Soheill

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I have been speaking with Soheill…

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 IMAGE CREDIT: Kevin Donnelly

about his new track, Supernatural, and how it came together. The American songwriter discusses his E.P., Somewhere Between Love & War, and the sort of themes that inspired it; which musicians he is inspired by – he reveals what Nashville is like as a base.

I ask whether there are tour dates coming and which albums are most important to him; which new artists are worth checking out; if he will come to the U.K. and tour – Soheill ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

I’m good! Busy as always. I’m about to release my E.P., Somewhere Between Love & War, on October 12 and planning for a Texas tour with Jon Pattie. It’s an exciting time but, as some of you know, the to-do list never takes a break.

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

Sure thing. I’m Soheill. I’m a singer-songwriter/producer from Nashville, TN. I’ve been writing music for quite some time and relocated to Nashville from L.A. within the past year. My music could be described as Psychedelic-Indie-Pop/Rock.  

Supernatural is your new song. Can you talk about its story and background?

Supernatural was written about a certain time in my life where my family was trying to move from Iran to America. I was seven-years-old and we had already been denied a Visa once before in Pakistan. My mom played a big part in getting us over here because she wouldn't take ‘no’ for an answer the second time around when we were in Dubai. They initially denied us a Visa but she was somehow able to change their minds.

The crazy part is that they were going to let my mom go to America without me. I was the problem for them because, in Iran, they force you into the military unless you win a lottery. So, to them, I was an asset for war. I am very fortunate to be out here today.

It is from the E.P., Somewhere Between Love & War. Are there particular themes that inspired the songs?

There are a few different things that inspired it. I wrote a couple of the songs while I was in the process of moving away from L.A. I came up with the title Somewhere Between Love & War because I was living comfortably in the grey area. I was having problems with relationships and work, mainly because I felt I was being held back. I moved to Nashville more to get away from distractions and cleanse my spirit. The music scene here is okay but I believe you can be anywhere and do music as long as you're willing to tour.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jenna Doolittle

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

That's a really tough question.

I've been through so many musical phases - Hip-Hop, Pop; Rock, Songwriters etc. My very first encounter with a memorable musician was Michael Jackson. I remember watching the Thriller video and getting scared out of my mind. M.J. inspired us all. It's beautiful that he touched so many people of all different walks of life.

How important is Nashville as a base? Is it a great city to make and perform in?

Nashville is a great place to be if you want to be a songwriter or simply just want a more simple life with a city feel. There is a music industry here but it's mainly Pop/Country, Country or Americana. There is a bit of an Indie music scene that is flourishing here in East Nashville and Midtown. I think, for me, it's just comfortable living here. It's cheaper than Los Angeles and I've met some great people and even my manager. Is it long-term? Probably not, but who knows...

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jenna Doolittle

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

I'd love to have a successful E.P. release, a couple music videos and to start working on my next E.P.

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

I toured London by myself for five months around 2011. It was a magical time. I was all alone in a city and didn't know anybody. I had just quit my office job and embarked on a journey that helped me grow as a musician and person.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Kristen Balani 

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

Coldplay – Parachutes; David Ramirez - We're Not Going Anywhere and Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon

I love all these albums for different reasons but, for me, it's all about timing. Great music comes into your life at a time when you need it the most. It's like finding someone you love at various points in your life. There is a connection you feel to the lyrics, the mood and the artist. That's what makes a great album for me. 

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

I would support Nine Inch Nails and request:

- All cellphones be locked up inside a safe to prevent anyone from zoning-out on social media.

- Dinner must be served on real plates with options for vegans and meat-eaters.

- If you do not curse at dinner, then you are to be excused.

- If anyone mentions or speaks of any boy-bands or other annoying bands, they are removed from the tour production.

- No peanut butter allowed. Only Nutella.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Kristen Balani 

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

Yup. Texas tour, 2018. I will be playing in Dallas, Ft. Worth; San Antonio, Houston and more. Check out samhale.net for details. 

Might you come to the U.K. and play soon?

I have before. I don't see what would stop me (smiles). I miss my friends there.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Focus on the music first. Don't worry about social media and trying to be popular. If your music is truly amazing and original, people will come to you.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Jenna Doolittle

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Definitely. Check out this playlist I made.

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

Sometimes. Ha. I like to cook or be in nature. I try to take a little time each day to relax. 

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).

Nick Hakim - Green Twins

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Follow Soheill

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PHOTO CREDIT: Jenna Doolittle 

Official:

https://soheill.com

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/samhalemusic

Facebook:

https://facebook.com/soheillmusic

Instagram:

https://instagram.com/soheillmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/soheillmusic

YouTube:

https://youtube.com/soheill