INTERVIEW: Julian Mika

INTERVIEW:

Julian Mika

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THE first port of call today...

is with Julian Mika. He has been talking with me about his latest track, Know To, and what comes next; which albums and artists have been inspiring and influential; what he thinks of the current British Hip-Hop scene – he recommends some rising talent to watch.

I have been asking about his heroes and idols; whether he gets time to chill outside of music; which artist he’d support on tour if he had the opportunity – Mika ends the interview by selecting a cool track.

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

Yo. What’s happening? Yeah. It’s been good; lots of things going on. Lining up a couple things for the next months. You know how it goes.

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

First and foremost, my name’s Julian Mika - that’s my real name, no stage name. I feel like it’s important to keep it personal; it represents what I'm trying to do with the music which is to keep connected to the people who listen and get involved. I want to feel like there’s a relationship there through the music and what better way to start that than with your birth name. That’s really me at the end of the day.

Know To is your new track. What is the story behind it?

(Laughs). Do you want the short version or the long version? Nah; I'll put it simply...I heard the beat and the song literally just wrote itself. You have different experiences of writing. Sometimes, it takes a bit longer to write a track and you sit with it a bit more and sometimes it’s like fishing. You just catch it out of thin air and that’s what happened with this song.

It came at a time when I was figuring out a lot of different things and I just felt like this song is going to represent the start of something new. It’s kind of like saying I've been waiting for some time and the time is now.

Might we see an E.P. coming next year?

You might (laughs).

Which artists do you consider role models and icons? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

The thing is, yeah, the list of artist is very long because there’s been a very wide range of music that has surrounded me my whole life. But, what pops into my head straight away, and even if it might seem super bate (laughs), are the early Jiggaman (Jay-Z) records. When I heard Reasonable Doubt and The Blueprint young, it proper just connected to me and I feel like I really studied that. The words and the way it makes you feel like you were really there. And, then obviously you got your Tupac Shakurs who I just feel like even (just) his character in interviews taught me loads. In terms of Hip-Hop, as I’m sure you can imagine, the list is long.

When I think about my relationship with words; that really brings up Bob Dylan for me. There was something about his voice and the poetry he used which was intriguing to me, even as a child. In a funny way, that kind trickled down to my taste in music. I like a voice that actually stands out; that you can recognise as soon as you hear it, along with the words which makes the message so much stronger. From that, that sparks the time when I heard Boy in da Corner for the first time. You can’t deny the production and Dizzy’s voice.

Lastly, growing up, there was so much music around. So much Soul, Rock; Blues...just all of it. The Aretha Franklins, Whitney Houstons; Sam Cooke, Ray Charles; Otis Redding, Lauryn Hill; James Brown and, of course, uncle Frank, the great Frank Zappa. It’s one of those questions I could sit and talk about for days because these are all part of the D.N.A. that makes me. Not just as an artist but as a person.

Do you think the British Hip-Hop scene is growing? What is your take on the modern vibe?

So, firstly, I love it, what’s going on. It’s not even just about Hip-Hop to me; it’s just about being part of something. I just love the whole thing of being unapologetically U.K. It doesn’t matter what you’re doing, as long as you’re representing that; you’re all one because we are representing where we are from and not sugar-coating it for the rest of the world to accept like we might have done back in the day.

But, also, that is part of the growth...so, yeah, in short: I do think the scene is growing. It’s always been here but it’s for the world now, not just our little bubble and that’s sick to see. Coming from London, I just rate the merging of sounds because that represents our community, essentially.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yeah. I’ve definitely got plans. Keep releasing music, getting shows going. Big plans for 2019; I’m excited.

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

Yeah. I think my favourite memory would be Willesden Green Resident Studios; just turning up there after-hours with a bunch of olders, just falling in love with the craft. Those were like the beginning days of catching the bug.

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

Oh, rah; that’s mad-difficult. I recon, right now, it would have to be Reasonable Doubt - like I mentioned earlier. Also, To Pimp a Butterfly and Views. The answer to that question will forever be changing though. Depends on the day, my friend.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

A boxer puppy (laughs). R.I.P. Noodles.

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

It’s funny, actually. I was having this conversation with my girl the other day and, again, obviously I could list a thousand artists but, for right now, I would have to say SZA, yeah. I think there’s something I like about supporting an artist that’s in the same family of what you do but that’s in a different medium.

My rider would be: Magret de Canard (laughs hard). Nah. I would probably have some good speakers to bang music, some rum and ginger; some Monster Munch, a bucket-full of 99p chicken wings from KFC - cos it’s my favourite, even though man’s trying to get on that veggie life (laughs). Tea and biscuits, no doubt, and a nice comfortable sofa. It’s the simple pleasures. Yeah. I'll keep it at that for now.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The advice I would give myself (laughs) would just be persistence.

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

Not yet. I still want to get a couple songs out into the world but, yeah, keep your eyes peeled.

 IN THIS PHOTO: RIMON

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yeah, there are. I like RIMON. She’s really hard. It’s not necessarily new but I'm messing with slowthai and Octavian right now. There’s also an artist called dijon that I like. There’s loads, man.

 IN THIS PHOTO: slowthai

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

I watch The Great British Bake Off (laughs). Shout out to Prue.

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).

Eugy – ‘Starboy  Soco’ remix

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Follow Julian Mika

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Julian-Mika-2064529566914248/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2Mvd1qANA5NbEJQFwt7q50?si=RvN0Yg5-T5C9HupX1jazqQ

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JulianMika1

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzfdCTM-JQNFGNGd7Uh53KQ

INTERVIEW: Zoe Polanski

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Ori Kroll 

Zoe Polanski

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MY last interview today...

PHOTO CREDIT: Ori Kroll 

is with Zoe Polanski who has been talking about her new single, Violent Flowers, and filming its video (which is due soon). I ask the Tel Aviv-based artist what the scene is like there and which artists have inspired her – and which albums are most important to her.

Polanski talks about her upcoming plans and provides some advice to rising artists; which gifts she would like for Christmas and whether there are any approaching artists we need to get behind – she selects an interesting song to end the interview with.

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

Hi, Sam. I’m great thanks! This week has been really nice since summer has finally ended in Tel Aviv and the heavy hit has been broken at last. It always feels like a burden is lifted when summer ends here and the first rain arrives.

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

I was trained as a guitar player, but I’ve been also writing music for as long as I can remember myself. I started my first solo project, Bela Tar, in 2010 as a manifestation of my growing fascination with texture-based songwriting, production and loop exploration and, during the years, it has been an active project. I have released two albums and an E.P. Another substantial project I was involved with is the Israeli band, Reo. It served as an outlet for a vision we had combining ’80s Pop aesthetics with Hebrew lyrics. In recent times, Bela Tar and Reo have taken the back seat in my life and gave room to new interests.

Composing several film scores shifted my work into the field of ambient experimentation. I met Aviad Zinemanas, who is a prominent Israeli Electronic musician, and together we started creating new arrangements to my songs.

Violent Flowers is your latest single. What is the story behind it?

I originally created it as a Bela Tar song using my familiar method of working with loops. First came inspiration for a single loop with a texture that fascinated me and made me want to explore all of its secretes; its lights and shadows. In this method of working, the loop is like a terrain for me and the song structure is my exploration of it.

I later realized that the basic loop in Violent Flowers was a manifestation of a beautiful memory I had that belonged to a previous chapter of my life. The song evolved as a visualization of that memory. When I met my current band mate, Aviad, we tackled this song pretty quickly. The soft electronic parts are his take of my first basic loop and an enriching addition to the sound image of the song.

What was it like putting the video together? Was it good working with Nadav Direktor?

In the video, we tried translating the audial experience of the loop based song into image and editing. We knew from the start that our subjects are going to be flowers and leaves, so coming up with the idea of a constant ‘zoom-in’ motion set us on a journey exploring hundreds of old nature films. It was a really fun process and Nadav is a mastermind in finding the rarest most beautiful pieces of film. Nadav worked hard on creating an organic flow between the different footage and the result, in my opinion, is a trip like experience.

Is there a strong music scene in Tel Aviv right now? What sorts of sounds are popular?

Tel Aviv is a very culture oriented city. Music-wise, its strong-suit at the moment is the Electronic music scene. There are a lot of great-sounding clubs and a growing amount of Techno/House producers and D.J.s that are based here. Tel Aviv is dramatically different from the rest of Israel (much more international) but, still, this is a Middle Eastern country and you can find traces of more local musical genres in a lot of the music that originates from here. The use of African or Arab instruments is evident. I also like using the Darbuka (an Arab percussion instrument) in some of my songs.

The sound of it is pretty far away from the kind of dream Pop that my music is often described as, but it’s an instrument that I heard around me growing up in Israel and I feel that it makes sense for me to combine it with what I do.

PHOTO CREDIT: Goni Riskin

Did you grow up in a musical household? When did music come into your life?

My mother was a classically trained pianist and we always listened to music when I was growing up. Jazz and ethnic music were the most common; some Country music as well. Surprisingly enough, we hardly ever listened to music sung in Hebrew, so when I started writing songs, it was strangely obvious for me that I needed to write in English - even though my native tongue was Hebrew. Only later on did I start writing in Hebrew and it was a big challenge for me.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes, I do. I am planning to release the album that I am currently finalizing with Aviad Zinemanas. It will include both songs and ambient pieces. I am also currently working on a few collaborations that will see the light of day in 2019. One is with an Israeli Techno producer and another is a new project in Hebrew. My biggest plan for 2019, which is more of a hope though, is to continue experimenting and collaborating and creating lots of new materials.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ori Kroll 

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

Music gave me so many great memories. But, in all honesty, I think nothing beats the feeling of having a moment of musical inspiration when I’m working on a piece, by myself. It’s rare and it’s wonderful.

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

Teenage years are the ones in which music hits you with the most intensity so it saddens me a bit to admit that music I discovered then and loved during that period of my life probably means the most to me. Red House Painters - Rollercoaster was one of the first albums I fell in love with.

In later years, I discovered a newer incarnation of the same artist and Sun Kil Moon’s Admiral Fell Promises became a really important album for me. My third choice would be a more recent one; one of the exceptions that were able to blew my mind, even though I was older…that’s William Basinski’s Disintegration Loops. In contrast to Mark Kozelek’s work I adored in previous years, in Basinski’s music I found elements that are closer to my own creative process.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ori Kroll 

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

Tough call. There is a Neumann microphone that I am dying for and a Maison Kitsuné jacket I would love to have. Either one of those would be awesome. Or, perhaps, that the entire world becomes vegan.

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

I was actually pretty blessed and I got a chance to support so many great musicians in their Israeli tour dates - like Tame Impala, Swans; Mark Kozelek, Lætitia Sadier; Sleep Party People and more. I feel I’m satisfied in that area. Regarding my dream rider - maybe a backstage full of dogs.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I don’t know that I’m qualified to give any advice; I believe that, for different people, it works differently. Some clichés are worth mentioning though - that it’s okay to be influenced by stuff but don’t try sounding like someone else. Try doing only what inspires you and makes your insides feel warm and fuzzy. Don’t worry too much about self-promotion. Worry about your art being amazing. That being said, you should find an awesome graphic designer.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ori Kroll 

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

I am currently playing only in Israel but planning some European dates for spring of 2019.

How important is it being on stage and delivering your songs to the fans?

Playing live is a part of my work as a musician that I have grown to love. When I started out, I had a terrible stage fright and it took me years to shake it off. Only in the past year have I started to enjoy it. And I do now, tremendously. I am not a super-social person to say the least and playing shows allows me to connect with people on a very profound level, something that is almost impossible for me otherwise. So, I would say being on stage is a huge deal for me and it has a lot to do with me being less lonely.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Shame on Us

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I would love to recommend some Israeli artists that I admire. As I mentioned; the Electronic scene is happening in Tel Aviv and there are a lot of interesting artists like: Red Axes, Shame on Us; Or Edry and TV.OUT. And, not Electronic but still great: Vaadat Charigim and Hila Ruach.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Vaadat Charigim

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

Since I work independently in music - with no day job -, I have no other choice but to really fill my time with all kinds of different projects. Other than creating original music, I score films and I teach production and guitar. I actually don’t have much time left for hobbies. I do unwind though by taking my dog on walks and watching Netflix.

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

Or Edry - Cheder Choshech  

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Follow Zoe Polanski

PHOTO CREDIT: Goni Riskin 

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/zoepolanskiakabelatar/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6Bo6nw7v7mY8f8Qx9hET3B?si=SN8OzqMLT7mgWG_f0juHug

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/bela-tar

Bandcamp:

https://belatar.bandcamp.com/?fbclid=IwAR14cg9O25CJT053mEtvE066E7KyhBJvXAFI4hyCPmJdxA3BDQuiqJ73w9M

INTERVIEW: Love Ghost

INTERVIEW:

Love Ghost

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THE guys of Love Ghost have been talking with me...

about their track, Nowhere, and its award-winning video; whether there is going to be new material coming along and how the band found one another – they select albums that are important to them and rising artists we need to watch.

I ask if they get time to relax away from music and whether they share musical tastes; the importance and role of L.A. in their music and what they have planned going forward  - they select some cool songs to end the interview with.

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

Finn: My week has been the whole mix of emotions - good and bad, happy and sad; you name it.  We have been getting ready for a show this Saturday at Casey’s Irish Pub - it is one of our favourite spots to play, so that’s good. I also had a friend that passed away over the weekend and that’s been difficult.

Mya: I have felt especially swamped by graduate school applications, essays; book contributions, meetings and, of course, performing. I am unsure whether I have actually gotten worse at adulating (sic), or whether my obligations have placed a peak level of demand on pre-existing adulting capabilities.

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

We are Love Ghost.  We play progressive, hard Grunge-Rock with Jazz elements and strings. Mya Greene plays viola, Finn Bell plays guitar and sings lead vocals; Ryan Stevens plays bass guitar and sings backup vocals and Samson Young plays drums and sings backup vocals. Our new album is called Lobotomy.

Nowhere is your new track. What is the story behind it?

Finn: Nowhere actually grew out of an argument I had with an ex-girlfriend. It sprung from that argument but, on a deeper level, it speaks to adolescent depression. Depression is something I have fought with for most of my life. We all jammed together to come up with the instrumentals.

Mya had initially composed a viola part, which involved mode-mixture in rhythmic unison with the guitar but Finn offered suggestions, which led to the catchy melody you hear on the recording. The song has initially been shorter, but a bridge was added. We have performed it extensively.

The video has won awards! How did it come to be and what was it like being involved?

Finn: My dad directed it. It was fun to be a part of the filmmaking process. Finding all the locations with him was a fun experience. My dad was really inspired by this Beatles movie, Across the Universe, by Julie Taymor and The Beatles concert on the roof. Those were the inspirations initially and I guess there is also a little Magical Mystery Tour in it - so it was sort of our ode to The Beatles.

Mya: Our manager Dan Bell has extensive filmmaking experience and came up with the idea to do a psychedelic-themed video featuring our performance of the song. To my knowledge, none of the band members really had too much input on the script for this particular video, though that is different for the other videos. We filmed the video on a rooftop in downtown Los Angeles.

The weather and food provided at the shoot were perfect and it was fun being shot by drones (pun intended) and with Go Pros attached to our instruments in unusual places. The person managing the location was over-the-top aggressive, but we all had a good laugh poking fun at him.

Might we see more material later in the year perhaps?

Absolutely. We will be recording a single next week and we have plans to record an E.P. when we return from Ireland.

How did Love Ghost find one another? Did you all meet in L.A.?

Finn and Mya are the two original members from the initial lineup. They met through parental connection in the film industry. Their parents suggested a jam session and it went well. Ryan had come to our shows and had a mutual connection with Finn and so was invited to join after the initial bassist left. We knew Samson through mutual attendance at a local music school. We all met in Los Angeles.

Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Finn: I would say, since we all come from different musical backgrounds, we don’t exactly have the same musical tastes but it lends to our unique sound and for that I am grateful. Me, personally; I love ’90s and early-2000s music. I am inspired by Alice in Chains, Smashing Pumpkins, Radiohead and Elliott Smith amongst others.   

Mya is rather open to experiencing all genres, but was trained primarily as a musician in the western Classical tradition. We are inspired by an increasingly diverse array of genres and artists.

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

Finn: I would like to record the best single I possibly can; one that showcases all our abilities.

Mya: I hope that we produce a high-quality new single, solidify some of our new, yet-to-be performed material and attract a significant audience during the first days of our tour in Ireland.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

We will be doing the latter-half of our Ireland tour. We are going to go to Japan and play twelve shows in both Tokyo and Osaka.

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

Finn: That’s a really good question. There are a lot. Selling out our record release at the Bootleg and having four-hundred people chant “Love Ghost, Love Ghost” - that really moved me.

Mya: For me, I would say that it would have to be during this one outreach performance at an elementary school where children literally jumped out of their seats and tried to hug me. I played some excerpts from the Viola Concerto by Bela Bartok and the Cello Suite No. 3 by Johann Sebastian Bach. That was the most enthusiastic audience response I have ever witnessed with respect to any music that I performed.

That moment also supported the hypotheses that none of us are innately wired to only appreciate top-40 hits and that exposure helps form musical preference, which felt encouraging.

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

Finn: In Utero by Nirvana

Listening to that album is what really made me want to write music. In particular, Scentless Apprentice really captured my imagination.

Mya: I cannot really say. I pretty much never listen to whole albums and my favorite songs by different groups are usually a collection of songs and/or pieces scattered across albums.

Rayn: System of a Down - Mezmerize has some of the hardest bass lines ever. Love that album.

Samson: Buddy Miles - Them Changes made me want to be a drummer. Listen to it.

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

We’d support Thom Yorke. 

Our rider would be that the venue we are playing at has to give one meal to a homeless kid at the end of every show. That is definitely a cause for all of us. We have been organizing and feeding the homeless on skid row in Los Angeles this entire year.

Mya: ...and I want hot sauce with Carolina Reaper listed in the first five ingredients.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Finn: Stick with it. It’s the ones who have faced adversity and stuck with it that you know about today.

Mya: Don’t put all of your eggs in one basket; don’t underestimate the need for entrepreneurship and don’t major in music. I have been around too many musicians who appear to never make an effort to develop any other skills in addition to their musical discipline and then struggle to make ends meet when they cannot make their career take off. There are also many who do not understand the need to be promoted and wait for others to simply hand things to them. I had this mentality for a while.

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

We are playing six shows in Ireland coming up: Roisin Dubh, Galway 27th; Whelan's, Dublin 28th; Cleere's, Kilkenny 2nd Jan; ChezLeFab, Limerick 3rd Jan; Spirit Store, Dundalk 4th Jan; Crane Lane, Cork 5th Jan.

We will be playing twelve shows in Japan in March.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Bitch Falcon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Bitch Falcon (from Ireland), Moollz and the Irish band we will be touring with, modernlove.

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

Finn: I don’t get much time to chill but, whenever I do, I usually eat ice cream and watch YouTube tutorials on black holes.

Mya: I do lots of things in addition to music. I am not sure I would use the word’chill’ to describe many of them. I unwind by Googling things; looking up videos of medical procedures which involve things oozing, looking at puppies; writing and lying in bed under piles of clothes with crumbs underneath them.

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).

Finnegan: Frame by Frame - King Crimson

Mya: Langes Haar by Die Vamummtn

Ryan: Flypaper by My Ticket Home

Samson: -Istoid by Chuan Tzu

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Follow Love Ghost

Official:

https://loveghost.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/@LoveGhost_

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/loveghost_official/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/loveghost.official

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7oYWWttOyiltgT19mfoUWi?si=uBDs4XScRp-F_7d6oiBvrg

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/LoveGhost

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/loveghost_official

INTERVIEW: Holler my Dear

INTERVIEW:

Holler my Dear

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IT has been cool speaking with Holler my Dear...

about their recent album, Steady as She Goes, and its themes. I wanted to know how the band started life and whether they share similar tastes; what Berlin, their base, is like in terms of influence and creative drive – they recommend rising artists to watch.

I discover what they have coming up and if they each have favourite albums; whether there are any gigs coming up and how they relax outside of music – the and choose a song to end the interview with.

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

Hey! It’s been an exciting week. We’ve been making a lot of plans and creative decisions. So, yeah, quite a good week altogether! (Smiles).

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

We’re Holler my Dear; an international six-piece from Berlin. We have been described as “Music as antidepressant” (Die Bühne); we call it ‘Disco-Folk’. We are a passionate live band: for us, nothing is better than a sweaty burst of energy while playing one’s heart out.

Steady as She Goes is your latest album. What sort of themes and ideas inspired it?

It’s a political album that signalises confidence, courage and movement. When the shadows in the world grow longer, lamenting doesn’t help but optimistic determination does. No fear. Seeming contradictions are also where the album’s nautical title stems from: Steady as She Goes, a term for 'keeping the ship on course', is less about going in straight lines and more about navigating high tides: finding consistency in fluctuation. Change is part of our life and we are in perpetual motion.

How did Holler my Dear get together? When did you start playing together?

It felt like a blind date when we met for our first session in 2011. Fabian was the first musician I got to know in Berlin and I literally found the others via a combination of recommendation and coincidence. I had a sound in mind and was very lucky that it came off right away and kept going ever since.

Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Our musical tastes are as super-diverse as our musical backgrounds: from Hip-Hop to Turbo-Folk; Neo-Soul to Ambient. This contrast keeps us going. We inspire each other.

Is Berlin a great home? What is it like to create there?

Oh, yes! We love Berlin! Although gentrification has kicked in massively in the last couple of years, we still feel and love the city’s unique spirit and sense of freedom and space. It seems to attract libertines of all kinds from all across the world. There are so many talented people out there! We find Berlin’s vibrant art scene seriously inspiring.

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

After the intense period of our third album release and now at the end of various release tours, it’s time for us to get back in 'Schwung' creatively and write new songs. Plus, our video series, the Neon Tearoom Sessions, is in the making - so watch out for massive output from us. Muahaha! You know, autumn and winter are no joke in Berlin, so better to slip off into the creative zone where you can basically achieve anything...

Do you already have plans for 2019?

We’re about to launch our very first crowdfunding campaign to realise a massive concert at Lido in Berlin next April under the title The More the Merrier (named after a soulful ditty from our latest album). With the help of our fans, we will be putting on a spectacle featuring various special guests, circus performers; a light-show and our very own recipe Holler drink...super-exciting!

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

Playing an open-air festival in Mexico City in 2016 for 9,000 pogoing music-lovers was an experience beyond words – pure love!

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

Stephen: Rage Against the Machine – Rage Against the Machine

It switched me on to Rap, showed me that music can have a message, be funky AND angry at the same time and still ecstatically enjoyable...and encouraged my small rebellion and shift toward the counter culture that I hold dear to this day.

Lucas: A Love Surpreme by John Coltrane

This album inspired me to study music.

Laura: Cewbeagappic by Beady Belle

It felt as if somebody was singing directly into my ear and was reading my teenage mind (“When my anger starts to cry”).

Fabian: De-Loused in the Comatorium by The Mars Volta

Its intensity completely blew my mind and changed my way of thinking about Rock music fundamentally.

Lena: My favourite four albums from Pink Floyd (Wish You Were Here, The Dark Side of the Moon; A Momentary Lapse of Reason and The Division Bell)

Melodies, philosophical lyrics and, of course, Gilmour’s guitar solos.

Valentin: Nevermind by Nirvana

Because it was something completely different than Bach. And, finally, loud.

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

Well. You know we are foodies, so...catering! Never-ending catering! Never-ending, delicious catering!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep going. We strongly believe in langer atem (literally ‘long breathing’; meaning being in it for the long haul and persevering) #forward.

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

Have we already mentioned our crowdfunding campaign? (Winks). If the campaigns goes well, we shall Holler in Lido (Berlin) on 04/04/2019.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Yazzkimo

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We’re lucky to be surrounded by inspirational creative colleagues such as: Ben Barritt, Yazzkimo; Kwena, Kid Be Kid; Tanga Elektra, Jim Kroft; Oko, Zinq; Komfortrauschen, Maria Christina/Federico Casagrande DuoJacky Bastek; Schmieds Puls, Skazka Orchestra; Alright Gandhi, Yusuf Sahili; Teresa Bergman, Friede Merz; Leni & The Boys, Meetin’ Moa; Fräulein Hona, Listen to Leena and many, many more!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Scmieds Puls/PHOTO CREDIT: Astrid Knie Photography

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

Nature, food; books, travelling; dancing, meditation; having deep talks and silly laughs with friends and lovers.

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).

Moses Sumney - Lonely World

It’s magic.

__________

Follow Holler my Dear

Official:

http://www.hollermydear.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/hollermydear/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/hollermydear/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6OhRuqw2CDZ9O9FJUuIHUb?si=esRNA-U9QnWRFZn6dGpdgQ

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwFk39bbG9QBgkgNk5oLzeA

INTERVIEW: Hero Fisher

INTERVIEW:

Hero Fisher

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THE fantastic Hero Fisher...

has been talking with me about her latest single, Life Through Closed Eyes, and how the song came to be - she talks about her new album, Glue Moon. I was keen to explore how music found her and which artists she is inspired by; what is coming next and a rising artist we need to look out for.

Fisher explains her plans going forward and which three albums mean the most to her; what advice she would give to artists coming through and if there are any tour plans – she ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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

Hi! So sorry for the late reply. My week has been great, thank you. I just moved to a new neighbourhood and have met lots of interesting and magical people.

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

Well. My name is Hero Fisher. I am a singer-songwriter and I’ve just released my second album, Glue Moon. I was born in London to Australian parents and grew up in a small village just outside Paris, France. My father is an artist and illustrator; my mother a potter and writer and my sister is a weaver. All being artists, neither of us actually know how to make money. 

Life Through Closed Eyes is your new single. What is the story behind it?

I think this song speaks to and old friend/lover, calling on shared memories. To me, it feels like an intimate moment of forgiveness, but from a distance. It should give relief, lift a weight off. The song is like a repeated chant, summoning lighter feelings. It should feel nostalgic, forgiving and peaceful.

What was it like putting the video together? Do you like making videos?

The video was shot by my friend and frequent collaborator Julian Broad, who consistently not only understands my visions but also brings them to another level that I could not have possibly imagined. He's a true artist.

We shot the video in the same location as we did the album artwork, by the giant reservoir Caban Coch in the Elan Valley in Wales. The valley used to hold a village before they flooded it in 1893, completing the dam in 1904. The idea of a submerged ghost-town lent perfectly with the general themes of the album.

Glue Moon is your album. Are there particular themes and times from your life that inspired the music?

A lot of the songs on the album are written with a specific place in mind, which I refer to as 'Glue Moon'; now the name of the album. It takes place in the wee hours, in the woods; by a lake, under a big, pale duck egg blue/green moon. While writing it, I was drawn to images of decay and nature taking over manmade structure; ghost-towns and solitary/transient characters.

Did you grow up in a musical family? Which artists did you discover at a young age?

Yes. Music was played all day every day in my home. Regulars were Bob Dylan, Van Morrison; Leonard Cohen and then I fell in love with Billie Holiday as a teenager.

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

I hope people buy the album so that I am able to make more music!

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes. I hope to be able to tour Glue Moon. I’m already working on a new album and am keen to do more collaborations with other artists.

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

I love the festivals. I always feel like a new person after them. I also sang a song with Craig Armstrong and the London Contemporary Orchestra at the Union Chapel in London recently which I loved beyond words.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Walker

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

Bob Dylan’s Blood on the Tracks - because it reminds me of when I was first driven to write music.

PJ Harvey’s White Chalk - because I love everything she does.

Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds’ Skeleton Tree - because it is so delicate, feathery and moving. I’ve never heard anything like it.

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

I’d love to support Cat Power, PJ Harvey; War on Drugs, Chelsea Wolfe and Nick Cave. I’d probably ask for whiskey and a bowl of pasta… 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Get a diploma if you can so that you don’t have to work shi*ty part-time pub jobs forever.

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

I’ll be playing some shows in the New Year.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Anna von Hausswolff/PHOTO CREDIT: Gianluca Grasselli

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Anna von Hausswolff. She’s powerful!

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

Music is a constant back-thought; I’m always ready for a new inspiration, so it’s not easy to switch it off. In down time, I read and cook a lot.

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

Cat Power’s Maybe Not. One of my all-time favourites!

__________

Follow Hero Fisher

Official:

http://www.herofisher.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/therealherofisher/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/herofisher

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/herofisher

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2UTLIPgfUhvKa3m0poQrC0?si=ElFcp0JARMO_I9U5fAFKlg

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtmmEsNkh7gKC77QkH8jpMA

INTERVIEW: J Lndn

INTERVIEW:

J Lndn

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I have been speaking with J Lndn...

about his single, Like Me, and what its story is. I was eager to know what sort of music inspired him and how he got into the business; which albums mean the most and what he has planned coming up.

J Lndn talks about his plans and tells me how he unwinds away from music; if there are any tour dates coming up and if he has a favourite memory from his time in music – J Lndn reveals whether he has anything to achieve by the end of the year.

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Hi, J Lndn. How are you? How has your week been?

Hey. The week’s been pretty stressful, not gonna lie; have a lot of stuff to deal with my university, been cooped up in the studio like every night just working on my new releases; making new ideas and trynna innovate my sound.

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

I am nineteen-years-old. I was born in Cali; never lived in the U.S. my whole life till this year. I grew up in three different cities: Moscow, Dubai and London. So, just a year ago I moved out of the U.K. to Boston to pursue my music career here. So, unlike a typical rapper - which reps only one city - I tend to represent all three. I’m currently a student in college and I’m also a boxer. Other hobbies are I enjoy reading about other people’s cultures, history.

 

Like Me is your debut single. What is the story behind the song?

I wouldn’t say there was actually a story behind that song. I was more addressing a statement to the public and others in the Rap game. I felt that my first single should have been a little more self-centered. This song was to establish myself in the industry and portray the message of ‘to look out for someone like’. This was mainly directed to the people who didn’t believe in me or my passion for music and thought that I had nothing in the bag - that soon those who doubted me are the same people that are going to be praising me for my art.

In this song, I’m laying out my ambition, my dedication and I’m shutting down and addressing those who had no hope in my career. This is one of a few songs I would consider ‘selfish’ since it’s all about me. However, most of my music doesn’t evolve around that subject. I wanted my debut to be about self-empowerment. 

Can you give me a sense of the artists you grew up around? When did music come into your life?

As a little kid, I grew up listening to a lot of Jazz, R&B; Funk and Blues as those genres would always be played in my house or the car. I started listening to Rap/Hip-Hop at the age of eleven. It was mainly Jay-Z and Eminem who put me onto this genre. At the age fifteen, I would be freestyling after school with my friends however I never took it seriously; it was more of a joke.

At seventeen, my best friend bought me an e-drum kit and I just started making beats from there. Surprisingly, music production is where my passion for my career roots in. I would always consider myself a producer first and then a rapper. After efforts of experience, I established myself as a producer for other artists but the more I made beats the more I felt the need to flow and rap on them. Hence, why I’m here now in my Rap career.

My biggest influencers are Biggie Smalls, Nirvana; Kanye West, Nina Simone; J. Cole, Eminem; Jay-Z and Kendrick Lamar.

You were born in California but spent time in London. How important was your time here?

Actually, I have never lived in Cali I was born and then six months later my family moved to Moscow where I spent my childhood there. Then I moved to Dubai (this is where I developed an interest for Rap); then I moved to London, which was one of the most important locations I would say for my music as this is where I really got inspired to start my sh*t.

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

By the end of 2018, I want to establish myself in venues in my local area. I want to slowly start spreading the word to the public about me.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes, I do. I’m planning to expand my venue capacity release. Two more singles and perhaps release an E.P. or an album. 

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

One of my favorite memories was when I was making music in Dubai on my vacation. I started linking up with a lot of local artists there and they have inspired me a lot to make my music. At the time, I was going through a rough phase in my life. Although it was rough, it benefited my music a lot (I made hella dark songs at the time).

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

Yeezus - Kanye West

At first, when I heard this album I HATED it. Like zero interest, man. But, something kept telling me to listen to it again and again and again. Until I started loving this sh*t. This album, by far, resonated with me most. It was an experiential album from Ye as he never made that type of music before. And the courage to experiment really attracted me to this artwork. I’m also very picky with my sound and music so, when I hate something, it’s very rare that I come back and listen to it. This wasn’t the case for this album.

Blonde - Frank Ocean

When this album came out, I was in a dark place of my life and this album helped me out. I went through a phase of about three months where I would only listen to Frank Ocean. Sh*t was crazy. Nevertheless; every time I listen to a song off this album I feel like it takes you into another world and makes me reminisce on some memories that I had and some memories which I never had before. This album is crazy man.

Good Kid, M.A.A.D City. This was just Kendrick’s (Kendrick Lamar) classic album. By far his best piece. Talked about the struggle, ambition and how gang violence doesn’t make you a real person. This album inspired my Rap style and music to this day.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

I don’t really celebrate Christmas due my culture but, for the sake of the question, if I had to choose a present it would be a new pair of boxing gloves. I need to replace mine A.S.A.P.

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

I feel like, in order to be successful with regards to this, this would require a clear vision for that musician, confidence in yourself and that musician and trusting the work input.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Trust the process. Do not rush anything.

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

Unfortunately, not yet. I’m planning to release much more music (like, two more songs) then my team and I will start planning to get up on some venues or perhaps to open up for a big name. We’ll get there don’t worry (winks).

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

 Yes. I would suggest you check out El Léon. We got a lot of collab work coming up. And, to be honest, if any upcoming artist has some sh*t on me that’s 100% him. His bars are dope and the delivery is even better. Go check him. 

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

Yes, I do. For me, in order to shut off from this process I either box, chill with my boys or go out for a dinner (maybe a club here and there; I don’t want this lifestyle to distract me). I also use reading books as a way to detach. It kind of helps my brain to relax and, at the same time, get inspiration for new ideas. I fu*k with museums too.

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Follow J Lndn

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/nishanov.j/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1A89Eoi2z1SaJamujRxSyq?si=LJtIQdRUQVWPaKVl-9kJ8Q

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/zxddy

INTERVIEW: Lydia Evangeline

INTERVIEW:

Lydia Evangeline

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MY first interview of the day...

is with Lydia Evangeline as she tells me about her new single, Down, and its story; whether she is already looking ahead to next year and more material; the influence of her dad regarding music and which rising artist we need to get behind.

The songwriter chooses a few albums that mean a lot to her and whether there is anything to achieve by the end of the year; who she’d support in tour given the chance and how she relaxes away from music – she selects a great song to end the interview with.

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

Hey there! I’m great thank you! My week’s been good. I’ve just got back from Leeds where I was part of a Sofar Sounds gig. 

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

I’m Lydia Evangeline; twenty-four, based in Brighton. Started writing music at about thirteen/fourteen when I entered a very dreary poem into my school poetry competition and then decided to put it to some even drearier chords and write my first song...and the rest is history. Haha. 

I’ve only recently started releasing music as a solo artist (I’ve put out five singles in 2018) and before that I was in bands. I also play for artist Jake Isaac as his keys/guitar/percussion/backing vocalist (which is SO fun) and has taken me to many countries on many tours, which I’m so grateful for.  

I’m heavily inspired by women in music; I love 'em. At the moment, I’m drawing lots of inspiration from the likes of Jade Bird, Fenne Lily; Dodie, Maggie Rogers; Sigrid and MUNA - oh my gosh, the list is endless. Girls rock! 

Down is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

I started the lyrics for Down about three years ago actually - it’s been on a long old journey. I’d finally pulled myself away from a relationship that looking back just wasn’t great, but I wasn’t strong enough in myself to stay away. I kept being sucked back in and that’s primarily what the songs about. I liken the feeling of loss of control over your willpower to that of drowning and feeling like you’re struggling to resurface from the relationship that’s suffocating you and take a deep breath.

Did you experience a lot of music as a child? Can you recall which artists were in your collection growing up?

I know this is the classic answer, but my dad is my musical hero. He brought all of us up listening to Billy Joel, The Police; Mott the Hoople, The Carpenters etc. He almost daily sends me song recommendations via Spotify and has his own playlist of over two-hundred songs (so tech-savvy!). 

My mum is also from a family of Classical musicians, so that was very much present in our household, which I appreciate so much. I love that I can now just about identify pieces of Classical music when I hear them without being able to Google the lyrics. Haha. 

Will there be more material next year?

 Oh, heck yeah! Try and stop me! 

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

To be honest, I feel like I’ve achieved what I set out to do this year. It’s been a year of development and discovering who I am as a solo artist and, five singles later, I finally think I’ve got there...things will sound and look a little different next year and I’m so excited to show everyone my new material! Also, just a practical aim this year was to have five music videos to go along with each single which we managed to achieve so I’m pleased with that! 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes! An E.P. coming earlier in the year (I’ve enjoyed doing singles but I’m craving putting out a proper body of work that people can get their teeth into). And a couple of little tour and support tour ideas that are in the pipeline. Watch this space. 

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

Oh, gosh. I hope this doesn’t come across too braggy..but I mentioned earlier that I play for another artist, Jake Isaac, and last year we went on tour supporting Sir Elton John. Paha! Absolutely bonkers. 

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

Love this question. Basically, any of the Paramore albums but, if I had to pick, I’d go with the original, All We Know Is Falling. Paramore were my absolute teenage goals and I don’t think I’d be doing music today if it weren’t for my mild (major) obsession with Hayley Williams growing up. 

Shallow Bed by Dry the River is probably my favourite album of all time (BOLD statement). 

Then, finally...Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles. Great album and reminds me of my dad. 

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

I feel like this is the moment when I’m meant to say world peace? But, aside from world peace, I’m genuinely not really into ‘stuff’. I like gift experiences, you know what I mean? Like, take me ice skating at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland and you’re golden. 

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

I’d LOVE to support Mumford & Sons. The dream. And puppies for my rider. Not to eat, to play with. They’re so calming. Yes; a green room full of puppies please.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Well. I’m a new artist myself so don’t have bucket loads of wisdom to impart. But, something I’m quite passionate about is people feeling they can be authentically themselves as an artist. Everyone on this earth is unique, so bringing your uniqueness into your music is so much more exciting than being a carbon copy of someone else.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out? 

Fenne Lily. She’s a divine creature. 

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

I love a good Netflix binge, National Trusts; reading in coffee shops, hanging out with my family and walking along Brighton seafront listening to a good podcast. 

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).

Love that. Pop on Just Us by Cat Burns. It’s my JAAAM at the moment. She’s only sixteen. Mind-blowing

__________

Follow Lydia Evangeline

Official:

https://www.lydiaevangeline.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/LydiaEvangelineMusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/lydiaevangeline

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lydiaevangeline/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0QMNhrj5d6CkY4JJVL0eqU?si=3231jTEcRzy7jHbU61G3Bg

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Missyou

INTERVIEW:

Missyou

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I am ending the day...

by speaking with Missyou and what the story is behind their new single, Timid & Timbuktu. The E.P., YourBody, is out soon so I ask what themes inspired that; how they all found one another and the sort of music that influences them.

The guys pick albums that mean a lot to them and recommend some rising artists; how they spend time away from music and what they want to achieve next year – they each pick a song to end the interview on.

__________

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

Long, but alive. Hope yours was productive.

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

We are Missyou: Blaise – vocals, Pete – bass; Vin – drums and Omer – guitar.

Timid & Timbuktu is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

The title was inspired by Kurt Vonnegut’s short story of a similar name. It’s about time and all the torments it can create.

It is from the upcoming E.P., YourBody. What sort of themes inspired the E.P.?

Life, death; love, sex; intimacy and betrayal. And obsession. 

How did Missyou get together? When did you start playing together?

We all knew each other from other projects. We came together three years ago and started this with the intent of common ideas. 

Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Yes, very much so. The 1975, The NBHD; Lund, LANY; Nin, Elliott Smith and Brand New.

Is New York an inspiring and vibrant place to record music in? Do you draw a lot of guidance from the sounds and scents of the streets?

Not really.

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

To put out the E.P. Prep another E.P. Make more videos.

 Do you already have plans for 2019?

Coming together.

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

Hopefully, still to come.

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

I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning by Bright Eyes

Because the lyrics made me want to write.

Synchronicity by The Police

Because it changed everything for me.

Purple by Stone Temple Pilots

Because that song made me want to play.

The Devil and God by Brand New

Because it created atmosphere I had not heard before.

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

Too hard.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself; be true.

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

Not as of yet.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

6LACK, Chase Atlantic; Milky Chance and Barns Courtney.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Chase Atlantic

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

Edit, make films; create, cook.

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).

Love It If We Made It – The 1975

Free – 6LACK

Glitter & Gold – Barns Courtney

Sleeping on the Blacktop – Colter Wall

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Follow Missyou

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/missyoumusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/missyou_music

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/missyou_music/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4yOXdm7tRLOGo58R8VxyPn?si=DOz0RUYCSju-Nxe329As3A

INTERVIEW: Jana & The Lanterns

INTERVIEW:

Jana & The Lanterns

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THANKS to Jana of Jana & The Lanterns...

for telling me the story behind the debut single, Birdhouse, and what its story is. I was keen to know if there is more material coming and which artists Jana got involved with at a young age – she tells me what she wants to achieve going forward.

The songwriter selects some albums important to her and reveals whether there are gigs coming; which rising artists we need to get behind and whether she gets time to unwind away from music – Jana selects a great track to end the interview with.

__________

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

Hi, Sam. I’m ok, thanks. This week has been busy, but good.

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

Sure. My name is Jana. I live in London and I’m a musician and singer-songwriter. I started playing with my band about two years ago and named the project ‘Jana & The Lanterns’. It’s essentially Folk-Rock with hints of Pop, Country; maybe a hint of Jazz. I’m having a hard time putting it in the box, actually (smiles).

What is the story behind your new single, Birdhouse?

It started as a poem. I was just lying on a sunbed, writing a poem about birds. There was a birdhouse in the tree nearby and I realised that they only stay there for a while before flying away. It was like a temporary home. Hence, the lyric “Even a wanderer needs a piece of home every now and then…”.

Do you think there will be more material coming next year?

Definitely. We recorded five songs for an E.P. which will be released in 2019.

Which artists did you discover young and become involved with?

Sting was probably my first big influence when it comes to ‘popular’ music.  

Do you listen to a lot of modern music or do you find you gravitate towards classic artists?

I love listening to time-proven classics but from the newer people I prefer Father John Misty, Chris Stapleton; Lianne La Havas, Florence & the Machine...there is good music around.

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

I’d love to spread our band’s name around; introduce our music to as many people as possible. Releasing of the second single is planned too.

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

Well…there are a few. Playing at a Progressive Rock festival in Miami and meeting Mike Portnoy and Jon Anderson was pretty spectacular.

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

Mercury Falling by Sting

I found it in my dad’s C.D. collection and was amazed by the impeccable musicianship of the band, imaginative songwriting and arrangements. Never heard anything like it before. You know there’s a direct link between hearing that album and me coming to England (smiles).

Nat King Cole (compilation)

My interest in Jazz started with this.

Blue by Joni Mitchell

It showed me how much of an impact you can make with just a voice and a guitar/piano and that it’s possible to get abstract in expression while remaining very direct to the listener. I suspect it’s only possible with Joni.

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

Oh; I don’t know. There are so many great people around. It would be cool to support Father John Misty cause he’s one of a few singer songwriters that is REALLY honest and doesn’t make compromises. Good music is obviously the first priority for him.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?                   

Well. I am a new artist myself. That doesn’t mean I haven’t been making music before - I was fortunate to have a lot of amazing Classical music teachers that taught me discipline, dedication and refining musical taste. So, passing on their advice; listen to a wide spectrum of genres and practice, practice, practice.

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

At the moment, I am playing some solo/duo gigs with my guitarist. A proper tour will follow after the E.P. release. There’s an amazing Folk club in London called The Lantern Society that I play at quite often. Wonderful people and the performers are always great.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Aksel Undset/PHOTO CREDIT: Annika Derksen

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve seen this Norwegian guy recently, Aksel Undset. Beautiful landscape-like harmonies and melodies; incredible guitar playing too.

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

Haha. I never really chill away from music: it’s just in me. I’m always writing or just humming or thinking about swapping the melody of the new chorus for the old one as it was better in the end…otherwise I just watch a movie or go out for a walk (smiles).

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

Joni Mitchell – Help Me

__________

Follow Jana & the Lanterns

Official:

https://lanterns.band/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/lanternz/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lanternsmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ctoLjeMAYy8ICTwnnBC23?si=sV1go8XCSbi8FWD7Hzx5NQ

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/janaandthelanterns

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIuydgE2KkAIPgHj3UqkA3g

INTERVIEW: Evil Needle

INTERVIEW:

Evil Needle

___________

I have been speaking with Evil Needle...

about his single, Collapse, and what comes next in terms of new material. The French producer tells me about his path into music and albums that mean a lot; whether he has any advice for artists emerging and which rising musicians we need to get behind.

I ask whether he has any plans before the end of the year and how his music has changed through the years; if he has a favourite memory from his time in music – Evil Needle selects a relatively unheard song to end the interview with.

__________

Hi, Evil Needle. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m doing great, thanks. I hope you’re well?

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

My name is Evil Needle. I’m a producer from France.

Collapse is your latest single. What is the story behind it?

Collapse is one of the stages of the E.P. The overall theme is to overcome or beat something, hence the name ‘igida wich’ which means 'to win', 'to defeat' or 'to beat'.

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

I mostly listened to Hip-Hop music growing up and started to learn about beat-making randomly when my friend introduced me to one of the few software programs that were available at that time. I found it entertaining, so I just kept doing it as a hobby and, here I am, still working on my craft.

Do you feel your music has evolved and changed since the start of your career?

Definitely. Over the years, I have been influenced by a number of genres such as Hip-Hop, Rap; Neo-Soul, R&B; Trap and Future-Beats.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I’m currently working on an L.P. called Souvenirs 2, which is the final chapter. It consists of tracks from the SoundCloud era that I’ve reworked and added new productions to. I wanted people to enjoy them on all streaming platforms. This should be available at the start of 2019.

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

The best times were always the times where I got to meet all the ‘internet bros’. It’s really great to see how people really are and sharing a stage or a studio with them was never a let-down – it was a lot of fun.

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

Wu-Tang Clan - Wu-Tang Clan Forever

Because it’s the soundtrack of my childhood.

J-88 - Best Kept Secret

Because that’s the day I discovered J Dilla’s productions.

Flying Lotus - Los Angeles

Because he opened the path for a lot of us and he’s a big inspiration.

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

I don't expect much, but I’d like a good reception from the upcoming E.P.

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

I'd love to support artists such as Bryson Tiller, Jeremih or Anderson .Paak. As far as the rider goes; I'm content with water and some beer; maybe some Pringles for extra fanciness.

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

None at the moment.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To add their own flavor to the sauce and not only follow footsteps.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Blanda

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s always some great new stuff I’m discovering. Right now, I’d say that I really feel Blanda, Stanzah! and Nasty C.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Stanzah!

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

I can if I want to, but I’m fine with the way it is right now. When I’m not doing music, I like to learn new things such as cameras - which is something I’ve been getting into recently.

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).

allah – jordans (whereisalex remix)

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Follow Evil Needle

Official:

http://www.evil-needle.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/itsmeneedle/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/itsmeneedle/

 Twitter:

https://twitter.com/itsmeneedle

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/37nE9g0LRDhDSIejDuPKPS?si=SxmP1LfoTuCvA3IK1S3SdQ

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/itsmeneedle

INTERVIEW: Fly By Midnight

INTERVIEW:

Fly By Midnight

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IT has been cool…

 PHOTO CREDIT: Jonathan Robles/Variance Magazine

speaking with Slavo and Justin of Fly By Midnight about their new album, Rerunning. I ask what themes inspired its birth and whether they have standout cuts; how the group started and the importance of New York regarding creative energy and vibe.

They tell me about their upcoming plans and favourite music; albums that are important and whether they get time to chill away from music – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Slavo: It's been crazier than ever. In the best way possible though (laughs).

Justin: We're just stoked to be releasing more music, so it's been an exciting and nerve-racking past few days. 

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

Justin: My name's Justin and I'm half of Fly By Midnight… 

Slavo: My name's Slavo and I'm the other half. 

Rerunning is your new album. What sort of themes inspired the music?

Justin: The overall theme of the album is romance and the waves that follow it. The highs, the lows; the adrenaline rushes; the exhaustion. It's not about one person, but several people. That's my favorite part.

Slavo: Agreed. When Justin and I decided to call the album Rerunning, we really wanted to establish a recognition of how different, yet similar, some relationships are - almost like a rerun of an episode. Meet, become intrigued; fall in love, watch the love change shapes; sometimes lose the spark and start all over again.

Do you each have a standout/favourite track from the record?

Slavo: Loving Yous a Little Bit Hard Sometimes, for sure.

Justin: Mine's Ain't Got Much to Go.

How did Fly By Midnight get together? When did you find one another?

Slavo: Probably about four/five years ago now. I moved from Florida to N.Y. to pursue production and found myself in the same studio Justin was working out of.

Justin: A few writing sessions in and we decided that a duo project would give a fresh perspective to where we were at creatively. Haven't looked back since.

Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Slavo: Being around each other every day I think we've started to blend our tastes. We're both pretty eclectic with the type of music we enjoy and relate to. A lot of retro inspirations like Billy Joel and Hall & Oates. 

How important is New York and the people regarding your music and creativity?

Justin: As the Pop side of the music industry has begun its move to the West Coast, we still find N.Y.C. inspiring our sound every day. Our best friends still live here. We still find ourselves out till five A.M. in the Lower East Side. It's a huge part of our process and we don't plan on completely abandoning that anytime soon.

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

Slavo: In an age of singles being listened to more than albums, we want to be a part of the movement that allows listeners to really get lost in a body of work. We're playing a big show in Soho/N.Y.C. for the album. Really building up the aesthetic to give fans something they've never gotten from us before. We want to just keep evolving.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Justin: We do, but I'm sure many more will unfold. We'd like to bring the album back on the road across the States and hopefully international as well. More writing sessions. Stoked to work with a handful of people we already have in the calendar.

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

Justin: So many...working on the album has been such a rewarding creative experience. Making music with no rules or boundaries is a feeling unlike any other.

Slavo: Completely agree...especially when fans of our project have gravitated towards the most recent releases. Gives us confidence to create freely.

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

Justin: I'd say Boys Like Girl – Boys Like Girl. It was one of the first complete bodies of work that I listened to front and back on-repeat. It doesn't even have a cohesive story, but that Pop-Punk phase was super-inspiring. In many ways, it led me to becoming a songwriter. 

Slavo: A Day to Remember’s Homesick was filled with a ton of dope songs. Also, being born and raised in Florida and the band being from Ocala; there's a sentimental hometown connection I have to their music. 

Justin: (Laughs). Funny enough, despite both albums being completely different genres from F.B.M.; the songwriting and energetic drive of A.D.T.R. & B.L.G. kind of resonates with the music we make.

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

Justin: The 1975 or Walk the Moon. Both bands' audiences really find themselves lost in their stage performance. Really quite an experience. 

Slavo: Would be killer to bring our records to life with a large ensemble e.g. Justin Timberlake’s Tennessee Kids vibe.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Slavo: Stay humble and focused. Lot of amazingly talented people who become too distracted.

Justin: My favorite quote: "When you think you're working at something all day, remember a day is made up of twenty-four hours".

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

Justin: Rerunning The Album Show @ City Winery - Soho/N.Y.C. (Ticket link).

Slavo: Going to be dope.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Jon Bellion/PHOTO CREDIT: Dexter Findley

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Slavo: We're always finding new artists. Lately, we've been diggin' Jon Bellion’s new album. 

Justin: Also super stoked for The 1975's new album. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: The 1975

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

Slavo: Like most dudes our age, we like hanging with our friends. Grabbing a beer. 

Justin: Netflix and video games on the lazy days. 

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).

Slavo: Bad – Lennon Stella 

Justin: Know Me – The Band CAMINO

 

__________

Follow Fly By Midnight

Official:

http://www.flybymidnight.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/FlyByMidnightMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/flybymidnight/

 Twitter:

https://twitter.com/flybymidnight_

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rQTEdG6hDVOlDUFKs9EjZ?si=I2H3TXXfRzadh3BQ3uV8sw

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/flybymidnightmusic

INTERVIEW: Wyland

INTERVIEW:

Wyland

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THE guys of Wyland…

 PHOTO CREDIT: Kelsey Ayres

have been speaking about their new track, Nowhere Now, and what inspired it. I was keen to know how they all got together and whether they share musical tastes; whether there are tour dates and which albums are important to them.

Ariella, Ryan and Zach speak about their favourite music memories and how they chill away from music; which rising artists we need to watch and if they have plans afoot for 2019 – they each select a cool song to end things on.

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

Fast! The days just fly by. 

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

Ariella: I'm Ariella. I play synth and sing backup. We are an Alternative-Rock band based out of the Meadowlands in NJ. Our sound is a little worn and a little new - like finding an old adventure book tucked away in an attic. Ryan has always pulled inspiration from U2 and Coldplay and you can hear that influence along with some Arcade Fire, Mumford; Kodaline etc. We're a little obsessed with the U.K. and Ireland. 

Ryan: I’m Ryan. I play guitar and piano and sing for Wyland. Everything stated above is true. 

Zach: My name is Zach. I am the tallest member and bassist of the group and I’m currently obsessed with David Byrne and Star Trek.

Chris and Patrick aren’t here but Chris is our drummer and he’s really handsome. Patrick is our guitarist and he is also equally attractive. 

Nowhere Now is your latest single. Is there a tale behind it?

Ariella: Of course. Nowhere Now started as a ‘Frankenstein’ which is what we call it when Ryan takes two separate music ideas and stitches them together. The song has been through many, many lives. We sent a few demos to Philip Magee and he took it where it needed to go. We gave him the body of Nowhere Now; he gave it blood.

Do you think there will be more material next year?

Zach: We have hours of voice memos from all of us that might us busy for the next three years. I would say there is a strong possibility that more songs are coming.

Ryan: Yeah. We’re always working on new music. We’re just extremely picky about what comes out. I feel as though a bar has been raised and we can’t release anything that doesn’t meet that bar.

Ariella: Our goal is to write and release as often as we can though. We recorded a few really beautiful acoustic tracks with our friend Ben of Old Sea Brigade, which we'll release after the singles are out. 

Wyland formed in New Jersey. What brought you together?

Ariella: Time. We've been through a number of lineup changes that could have ended the band but Ryan was patient and just had faith in time. Our drummer Chris was a mutual friend of Ryan’s. They met while Chris was in another band. Our bassist Zach moved to New Jersey from Boston after meeting Ryan at a show in Syracuse and our guitarist Patrick responded to an extremely old ad on Bandmix that Ryan posted maybe four years prior. At some point, magic happened and everything clicked. 

 PHOTO CREDIT: Kelsey Ayres

Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Ariella: Not at all. We all come from very different backgrounds. Ryan and I share the most similarities when it comes to musical taste. A few of my favorite bands who inspire me are Lord Huron, The Staves; Mumford & Sons, Florence (and the Machine) and The Lone Bellow.

Ryan: I was raised on Boy and The Joshua Tree by U2. I really adore Coldplay’s older catalogue as well as anything Radiohead, Mumford & Sons; Of Monsters and Men, Keane; Elbow, Noel Gallagher…and the list goes on and on.

Zach: I’m very inspired by Classic-Rock. The energy and ability of The Who, the showmanship and creative mastermind that is Peter Gabriel; the epicness and power of U2. That’s where I come from. I appreciate bands like Coldplay and Mumford & Sons because they bring some of that feelgood power that I personally think has been lost with artists and the industry after the mid-'90s.

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

Ariella: Really just hoping to have a successful release and a lot of love on Spotify. 

Ryan: World domination could be exciting but, yeah, I’d settle with a successful release of Nowhere Now.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Ariella: Of course! We're releasing new tunes and writing. Always writing.

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

Ariella: Making music in Ireland. The whole month we spent there was like a dream.

Ryan: Ireland was definitely a highlight but we had the luxury of playing the Alabama Shakes afterparty at 2015’s Gentlemen of the Road tour in Seaside Heights, New Jersey. I think that was probably one of my favorite memories.

Zach: I think fondly back to when we set out on tour in 2016 in an RV we borrowed from a friend. The transmission went within four hours of the tour and we were stranded in Baltimore. We had to be in Washington, DC that night but we all knew it wasn’t happening. We ended renting a Penske truck, packed it with everything we had and we finished the tour. It was rough but those experiences made us a stronger unit.

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

Ariella: One of our albums? This new one. The energy and the texture in the sound hits just right. Lonesome Dreams by Lord Huron always takes me on a journey. I just love that album. I used to be a big ‘Hardcore’ fan and I would be doing my young self a disservice if I didn't mention Underoath. I know every one of their albums by heart. 

Ryan: Certainly in love with our latest record. I think an album that means a lot of me is really anything Aaron Dessner works on. Frightened Rabbit, Lone Bellow…the man has a magical touch.

Zach: My all-time favorite record is The Who’s Quadrophenia. I love Pete Townshend’s style of writing. He digs up anger, sorrow; love and hope in such a beautiful way. The record helped me fall in love with playing bass and listening to music. It also was a record that made me feel like I was understood. It is about a guy who desperately wants to find his place in the world. I think we feel that way throughout our lives. Not a lot of well-known songs are on it but they pack a punch for me.

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

Ariella: Florence and the Machine, hands down. We do not deserve her. My rider would be simple: lots of water and chocolate. -

Ryan: I may get some shade for this, but I’d probably tear up if we could open for U2. My rider would be water, wine; chocolate, tortilla chips and guacamole.

Zach: I would love to tour with Coldplay, actually. I know we fit in their world and traveling around with them would be a dream. In my rider, I would only ask for a few things. A culinary dish specific to the area we’re in and a local beer.

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

Yes! We're going on tour with this rad Canadian band, Valley. We're doing a leg in Canada and then headed down the east coast, from 11/24-12/15. (Full details on our website). 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make the music you want to make. Believe in what you’re doing and keep going, keep releasing. Don't sit and wait for an invitation. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Jade Bird/PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando for RollingStone.com

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jade Bird, Joni; Old Sea Brigade, MOSSS; TIOGA, Friends at the Falls and Pronoun.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Old Sea Brigade

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

Ariella: Ryan and I are filmmakers as well, so we unwind from music by writing scripts or filming (or binge-watching on Netflix). 

Zach: I unwind by listening and playing more music. There’s no escape from music for me. I’ll learn a song that I connect with and try to find room for personal improvement. I like to keep expanding my mind with music.

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).

Ariella: The Staves - Sleeping in a Car

Ryan: Frightened Rabbit - I Wish I Was Sober

Zach: Sad Song Backward - Jake Shears

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Follow Wyland

PHOTO CREDIT: @kelseyayres

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/wearewyland

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/wearewyland/

 Twitter:

https://twitter.com/wearewyland

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6oXo5Q1FtU2F4KmRzz5aBm?si=O2UVrohPSiedLxzr4aBPjA

INTERVIEW: LIV’n’G

INTERVIEW:

LIV’n’G

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THE sisters of LIV’n’G have been discussing…

their new E.P., Shades, and some of the stories that inspire them. Olivia and Georgia tell me how they got started in music and some of their favourite memories; some rising artists we need to watch and where they hope to head.

I ask them about their musical tastes and whether we can see them gig; whether there is a tale behind their latest single, Señorita, and winch artists they’d support on tour given the chance – they end the interview by selecting a couple of great tracks.

__________

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

Hey! Were fine thank you. Just been so busy this week!  

We’ve just booked a few firework displays for Metro Radio and TFM at Darlington and Saltwell (Gateshead), where there are crowds of up to 30,000. We ‘popped’ down to London to talk about music with a few people. We’ve been doing song writing sessions in schools for a couple of days and also wrote some original tracks for a choir and other artist.

Oh, yeah, and sorting the video out for Señorita. We love being busy!

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

Our names are Olivia and Georgia and together were LIV’n’G. Olivia gets called ‘Liv’ for short and Georgia gets called ‘G’. So, we just put them together to create our band name! Were a sister singer/songwriter/producing duo from Hartlepool, North East England - yes, where they allegedly hung a monkey as a spy!

Liv: We’ve been writing originals for about eighteen months now; I write the lyrics and sing.

G: I started to learn guitar using YouTube about two years ago then the piano, trumpet and sample pad and that progressed to producing songs. So, I compose and produce out tracks and play the keys, sample pads; backing and control the reverb on the mic, when we perform live.

We have written for other artists, played over two-hundred shows in the last twelve months; recorded in London and had our tracks mastered in London and L.A. We like to think of our music as Tropical Pop/World Pop/R&B and it has been described as “inclusive to all cultures and generations”. We like to use unusual or different instruments from around the world to create hooks; things like an accordion for a Latin track we have.

How did LiV’n’G form? When did you start playing music together?

We have known each other since birth as we’re sisters; we’re totally different individuals but, when we work together, we’re family. There are a few years age difference between us, but people are shocked when we tell them.

Liv: I’ve been singing from morning till night starting at a very young age.

G: I always found music, melodies and computers interesting and learned trumpet in primary school.

Our grandad bought us an electric piano around three years ago and Georgia taught herself to play. We then started to practice together and everyone seemed to like it. We started to do little local performances and were soon asked to support some local acts at gigs. It just went from there and now we’re performing every weekend!

You have won competitions and gained a lot of success. How does it feel looking back and how important are those honours?!

Were very proud of how far we’ve come in such a short space of time. We’ve entered many competitions and they often result in greater opportunities as well as giving us much-needed unbiased feedback. It’s good to enter local talent competitions with your friends and family watching as it teaches you about stage presence; it teaches you to take feedback and criticism, as well as ‘hardening’ you to the industry.  You may not win every competition, you may not even place sometimes but these are the times when you learn more about yourselves and how resilient you are.

We won a number of competitions from local ones - Beyond the Lights, Upbeat Awards - to regional ones - The Big Audition for TFM Radio (Bauer) - to national ones like Live & Unsigned for performances we have produced and for our original songs. The prizes have given us bigger stages to perform; allowed us to support some great acts and some have been connected to raising money for various charities. Over the past two years, I think we have raised over £25,000 for charity from our music.

G: Being part of these competitions has taught us so much and, for me personally, it has built my confidence up so much, from not wanting to be on stage initially to playing and controlling the full set.

Liv: Competitions make you grow much quicker as an artist. It’s great to get feedback and gives you more focus.

Your E.P., Shades, is out. Are there personal stories or particular experiences that inspire the song?

Yes definitely. Three of the songs on the E.P. are personal stories. Walls and Green Light are about starting a new relationship and the fears that we both have felt and come across, the uncertainty of feelings; the scary feeling of ‘giving up your heart’ and the adrenaline rush that love gives you!

The other personal song is Equal. We originally wrote this song in support of International Women’s Day as were all about equality in all aspects of life including music. We hope our music can be considered empowering as well as bringing a fresh vibe to Pop! The track was played internationally at different I.W.D. events! Which, again, makes us so proud, plus it has a speech by Meghan Markle in it which is amazing. The E.P. comes from a female point of view, but we think it crosses the sexes and generations as its about feelings we may all have had sometimes.

What is the story behind the single, Señorita?

We love upbeat and Spanish or tropical rhythms as, with a lot of our music, it’s about a powerful individual; its fun and wants to make you move and, again, it’s about relationships and jealousy; feelings that everyone will have felt at one time or another. It came from the same place as our other tracks - life and personal situations - and we just try and put it in a way that connects with people. An upbeat Latin fable of a song; strong Spanish rhythms compliment the great vocals and modern, clean urban Rap. You can almost hear the flamenco heels clicking as the ‘femme fatale’ lures her prey in.

I get the sense your music is primed towards making us feel better and projecting sunshine. Do you consciously set to write music that gets the body moving?

Liv: We never intentionally write a song to make people want to get up and dance. We jam, talk about our experiences and basically bring our thoughts to life using music. However, as a family, we love to get on the dancefloor.

G: I have always loved the tracks of Rihanna, and the tropical rhythm that runs through her music, so obviously that has influenced the style of music we compose. I really don’t think it was a conscious choice or decision, it just happened.

However, it really does depend on the story and mood behind the song. Sometimes, it can be just a poem to music (like Walls) where is it about the feeling a song conjures up, about listening to the lyrics. We want to connect with people, to engage with their memories too. We have quite a few ‘bouncy tunes’ ready to go for next year that we hope can transport everyone to warmer climates and get them dancing.

Which artists did you all grow up around? Do you have any personal musical idols?

Liv: I love Beyoncé. Her honest, energetic and powerful performances are amazing and her vocals are so on point, be it a fast dance tune or a ballad.

G: For me, it would be bands like Clean Bandit who have brought the musicianship to the forefront of the music industry.

Our inspirations range from Ella Fitzgerald to Anne-Marie, The Animals to Ed Sheeran - any songwriter that connects with us.

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

By the end of 2018, we hope that people enjoy, stream and download our first E.P. release and were hoping to plan to release more songs early next year. Were also looking to release a professional music video to our lead song from the E.P., Señorita, which we are so excited to shoot! We want to play bigger venues and shows; we want to have a tour or tour support organized for 2019 and we want to have been booked for some festivals next year too. We’d love to get on the music industry radar, managers; booking agents or labels. There is a ’wind of change’ blowing to rebalance the music industry and female involvement; we would love to be part of that positive change.

Cheesy, we know, but we want to inspire younger children who we often work with to show them that if they follow their heart, their dreams can come true!

In that same vein; do you have plans for 2019 in terms of what you want to accomplish?

We hope to both ‘be’ Beyoncé; living her lifestyle, producing hits and influencing people…can you sort that for us? (Laughs). We are going to release more original music. We are hopefully going to play more festivals and events next year. Write ‘The Hit’…chart success would be amazing. Collaborate with other artists. Look at arranging a tour or tour support with artists we love.

We may be part of a documentary to be shown on Channel 4 early next year…we will see. We’d love to have management; a label who believes in us and loves our music and to be performing all over the world…just living the dream!

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

Liv: I’m so sorry but I must mention this one. When we supported Alexander O’Neal, we were waiting for him to come on stage and we could see him behind the curtain. Then, all of a sudden, he fell back tried to grab the curtain but missed and ended up flat on his bum. It was like it happened in slow motion. I know I shouldn’t laugh but I did (smiles).

G: Mine must be performing at Everton Football Club in aid of the Bradley Lowery Foundation and seeing all of those people there to support him.

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

G: Mine would have to be PCD by The Pussycat Dolls as it was the first album I ever bought and I could recite the whole album, even today…maybe.

Liv: Mine would have to be Beyoncé’s Lemonade album as I like what she stands for. She is so inspiring and that album made me want to start writing my own music…so I did.

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

G: I would love to support Little Mix. I think they have amazing energy and I love the fact that they are an all-girl ban…hashtag ‘pussypower’. (Laughs)!

Liv: Mine would have to be Beyoncé! (Notice a theme). I’m just a huge fan. I have always been so taken back by her performances and only wish someday to be as successful as she is!

Our rider would have to include parmos, crisps; M&M’s, apple juice; Jaffa Cakes…and Little Mix and Beyoncé! (Scratch that – Mam says we have to have chicken salad and water as Pam at Slimming World wouldn’t be happy).

Can we see you on the road this year at all?

Yes! We are always gigging on a weekend and in our spare time. You can always look on our Facebook page where all our events are listed. If there are no events near you, get in touch with us to request a gig somewhere! We love to travel! We have other gigs around the North East and we’re heading up to Scotland in a few weeks too.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We would say be true to who you are, personally and musically. Don’t let anyone else try to shape you into something they want you to be! As well as that; practice makes perfect! Any opportunity you get to perform, take it! You don’t know who could be watching, and every performance helps you grow as an artist.  

IN THIS PHOTO: Courtney Hadwin

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We have a friend who has the most amazing voice. He is called Geoff Mull!  We are also friends with Courtney Hadwin (America’s Got Talent) our brother’s girlfriend is Molly Scott who is on the live shows of the X Factor. We also have a friend who is the biggest diva for her age and the biggest voice we have ever hear for her age! (She is nine) Brooke Burke. She appeared on The Voice Kids last year and we’re sure she’s going to go far.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Molly Scott

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

Were so busy with everything pertaining to music: it’s very rare we get to chill!

G: I like to play FIFA football games on my PlayStation if I get the chance and I’m hoping to go to Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park.

Liv: I love to go horse riding, take the dogs for a walk and chill out!

We both like to ‘veg out’ on the couch in our onesies and watch a box-set; anything with vampires, really. Plus, we do love to eat. So, wherever there is food, we’re probably there. (Don’t tell Pam at Slimming World, though)

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).

Liv: Could you please play Freedom by Beyoncé!

G: Could you please play Hips Don’t Lie by Shakira!

__________

Follow LiV’n’G

Official:

https://livngmusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/LIVnGmusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/LIVnGmusic/

 Twitter:

https://twitter.com/livngmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/649CoIklRNu0QPOFMIidD6

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/c/LIVnGmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/livngmusic 

INTERVIEW: Deanna Petcoff

INTERVIEW:

Deanna Petcoff

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I am starting the day by speaking with Deanna Petcoff...

who has been telling me about her new single, Stress, and what its background is. I ask whether there is going to be more material coming along and what she hopes to achieve next year; what music she grew up around and whether there are tour dates.

I ask Petcoff if there are particular albums that mean a lot to her and what advice she’d give artists coming along; if there are any rising musicians we need to keep an eye out for – Petcoff ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

My week has been great, thank you! I hope you’ve been well too since the last time we spoke.

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

I’m an artist from Toronto and have been working in music for over seven years now! I’m currently working on a record for my solo project under my own name.

Stress is your new track. Is there a story behind it?

Stress is about frustration, loss of hope and acceptance of a situation that will never be fixed. The unbearable weight of not feeling good enough for the person you want and thinking they might want you too but can’t follow through with their flirtatious actions is a common feeling, and I wanted to encapsulate the frustration that comes with. I find way too often that feeling is described leaning heavily on the sadness that it comes with, but there is much anger in that feeling as well.

I also wanted to show the range of emotions women feel with the loss of love that isn’t just the sadness of heartbreak. Ultimately, in the end of the song, she’s done with playing with this person and wants the situation to be over, so they can both get on with their lives. Making the decision to be done with that kind of situation is difficult, but necessary sometimes. I decided it was worthy of a song.

Will there be more material next year?

Yes, there will be! We’re looking to release a record in the early months of next year!

Did you grow up in a musical household? When did music come into your life?

I did grow up in a musical household. My dad favoured the Classic-Rock superstars of the '70s like Queen, Led Zeppelin and Heart while my mom played us music like Carole King, Elton John and The Carpenters. Both introduced me to different facets of my musical personality from a young age.

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

I have achieved everything I hoped to achieve by the end of this year; mainly releasing this song for the world to hear!

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I do have plans for 2019. I plan to release a record and tour in other provinces in Canada! I’d really love to make it out to British Columbia!

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

I have loved many moments in my musical career so far, particularly getting to finally record all of the best songs I’ve written professionally and feel like they are being produced exactly the way they deserve to be - there really is no better feeling.

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

This changes constantly but, right now, the top records for me are Low by David Bowie, Be the Cowboy by Mitski and Les and Mary by Les Paul and Mary Ford.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

I would ask for an amethyst ring. I am really obsessed with amethyst right now.

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

I would love to tour with Angel Olsen. She is one of my favourite artists and I feel like I would get along with her really well and hopefully we’d get to do an awesome cover together like Fleetwood Mac or Carly Simon and become best friends! 

My rider would have Diet Coke, M&Ms; popcorn and Greek food. Gotta eat before the show!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would tell you female artists in particular to work as hard as possible and be confident when introducing yourself to anyone. Don’t be ashamed of your project, your name or your work. You deserve to take up as much space as anyone else.

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

I am playing November 29th at The Monarch Tavern with Helena Deland and Luna Li! All other shows are T.B.D.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Mitski

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m really into Mitski right now. She’s not a new artist but she did just put out a new record. I am also really into Sunflower Bean. Their newest record is also great!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Sunflower Bean/PHOTO CREDIT: Erina Uemura

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

I don’t really take breaks from music. I enjoy always working, writing or producing. I unwind by playing music, actually, or watching movies with my boyfriend and roommate.

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 play Why Didn’t You Stop Me? by Mitski! Thank you!

__________

Follow Deanna Petcoff

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/deannapetcoffmusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/deannapetcoff/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/deanna_petcoff

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/40wJiyTgK3egckAlDOp1ea?si=Bceg95kRSgOxVqdQhgrAQg

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7S_SOnIzEtk3IJjnunvhPw

INTERVIEW: Calvin Arsenia

INTERVIEW:

Calvin Arsenia

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THE terrific Calvin Arsenia...

has been letting me into his world and his creative process. I learn about his new album, Cantaloupe, and the sort of themes that inspired it; how he came into music and a few albums that mean an awful lot to him.

I ask whether there are any goals to achieve before the end of the year and which rising artists we should look out for; how it feels being on the stage and delivering to the people and whether he gets time to unwind away from music – the talented songwriter chooses an interesting song to end things on.

__________

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

Hello! My week has been stellar! I just spent the weekend in sunny Miami playing The Dark Lord in a sexy cabaret, Samsara, at the Faena Theater. Then, I returned to a beautiful snowy Kansas City. No complaints here.

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

Sure! My name is Calvin Arsenia. I am a classically trained singer and electric Celtic harpist steeped in a soup of Soul, Jazz; Folk, and Electronic roots, strung together by heart-on-my-sleeve narrations, served with a delicate garnish of cheeky humor on the tippy top.

Cantaloupe is your latest album. What sort of themes and stories inspired the album?

Cantaloupe has many themes. Sensual, Sonic; cynic and cinematic. I produced this record with two of my best friends who just so happen to be my heroes as well, J. Ashley Miller and Simon Huntley. Together, we share a deep passion for existing in beautiful spaces.

In the sensual sense, I wanted the music to feel the emotions on the most visceral level possible. The album also contains found sounds designed to get an ASMR response including a lot of non-musical elements. The desire for body response also spoke to how I would deliver the vocal on the recording. I’m constantly thinking about the narrative of the words I am saying. The allegiance to state of being that caused me to write a piece far outweighs the importance of diction or pitch, much to the chagrin of a former version of me. Grunts, growls; hoops and howls are all fair game. How do we marry elegance with our inner-animal?  In the compositions, it was our goal to have the whole album be a continuous non-repeating movement, which was a challenge within the verses-chorus-verse-chorus Pop music model.

The shows that we produce here in Kansas City, MO are very involved. In the face of an MP3 generation, I feel it is very important to increase the value of being in the room with me. I want people to feel like they could literally lift off their seats when they hear the music, see the lights; taste the drinks and feel the beat and the lace, satins and velvet. I want them to believe that they are free to feel and be and do whatever they want and be fully loved and not only accepted but embraced. In some way, we tried to pull these elements from the live setting and smash them into these tracks - musically and otherwise. Yes. That was a challenge.

The cynic. I kind of enjoy the irony of being a harp player who is a little down or irreverent. In some of the lyrical content, you can tell I am a bit jaded. That just happens around your Saturn Return, right? It’s normal, right? Ha! Ultimately, it’s about finding a deeper place to set the anchor of myself rather than the views and opinions of others. I think we have all suffered from cases of limerence that turn in to self-loathing because the desired result didn’t come to fruition. This behavior is ENCOURAGED by our society. It’s time to write a new story - to be a new society.

Cinematically. Each moment was designed to exist in a space, in a place and a location. It was a lot of fun for us to come up with the ‘set’ locations of the each of the pieces. Scouting in our imaginations. All of it was crafted digitally.

How did you come into music? Were you raised on a lot of different genres?

I’ve been singing constantly, obnoxiously and improvising songs about the things I was feeling or seeing since I was a wee tot (which I guess didn’t last long as I am now quite tall). I remember singing to my baby brother a lot. He was born when I was six. Around the house, my mother would play Gospel music - singers with huge voices! Larnelle Harris and Yolanda Adams. My father really loved slow jams like the Isley Brothers and Luther Vandross.  My older brother introduced me to Neo-Soul. He was a huge fan of Boyz II Men and D’Angelo.

The radio in my father's 1978 Pontiac Grand Prix played Mariah Carey’s Always Be My Baby over and over and I could not get enough! MTV and VH1 showed me great artists like Nelly Furtado…I think she actually was the musician who lured me into more alternative vocalists. I wound my way around to classically inspired singers like Josh Groban and Andrea Bocelli and into the long lineage of Folk musicians ranging from Joni Mitchell to Damien Rice. Fortunately, I was also surrounded by musicians that I admired personally, through church or otherwise.

Ultimately, I’m drawn to people and stories. The categorization is really only important if you are in a music shop….and even then. I don’t know. I find the conversation of genre to be a little bit of a sore subject. My work has been described as genre-elusive and it feels to me like I get punished for it a lot - for not playing by the rules or something. I have only every tried to put the elements and sounds and vocal techniques that I have found and loved and collected in my short life. I have to remain true to my story and not try to tell anyone else’s. I want to be inclusive and included. I am doing my best.

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

Wow. Well that’s coming up really fast! Hmmm...I really need a workout routine! Maybe I can sort that out in the next couple months

Do you already have plans for 2019?

More of the beautiful-same. Creating beautiful sensory spaces of love and understanding with beautiful diverse musicians in beautiful diverse spaces where we hope to reveal more of the beauty in the spaces and all the people involved by the time we leave than what we were aware of we entered. This year, I’d like to bring some of this to places around the U.S. I think we really need it here. I will be spending some time in Europe as my heart is there, but I’m specifically looking for places in U.S. to create magic in 2019.

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

A friend of mine is a massage therapist. She makes soaps and bath bubbles for gifts. She and her daughter bonded making soaps using the rose petals her daughter had collected from one of my performances. There was a sparkle in her eye as she told me this.

I was stopped on the street a few weeks back by a woman wearing Coke bottle glasses and long silver hair. She pulled out her phone to show me that she, too, had given another life to roses I used at a show she had attended. (I prefer roses that are red or pink. I prefer them damaged. I prefer them everywhere.) She had collected some from the set and proceeded to make a romantic display for her and her husband on their bed that evening. They’ve been together for decades.  

The audiences, my friends take the flame of the intention of my music and integrate the spirit and rituals of love and appreciation into their daily live.

I have played in front of thousands and thousands of people. I have received hundreds of standing ovations. Those don’t mean near as much to me as what happens after the festival has cleared out and the music, the message; the love, the wonder; the fascination and the energy has gone on to live in other expressions. Where did it end up? Who is tending to it now?

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

Vespertine - Björk

Illinois - Sufjan Stevens

Channel Orange - Frank Ocean

Vespertine really ignited my ears to all the layers of sound that could happen in a single recording. It also was my first introduction to harps in the context of Electronic music where they were displayed in a real delicate and interesting way. I like that the natural sounds and electronics are seamless bound throughout the listening experience. Also; full of layers and layers of unconventional beauty.

As the years go by, Illinois still reveals itself to me in new ways. I love the moving lines of Sufjan’s compositions and the all the stories that he leads the listener through - like a guide through a museum of childhood.

Channel Orange came to me at a time in my life when I needed it most. This album is incredibly human to me. It’s very cinematic. It’s very forward-thinking. Unapologetic. So human. So raw. It the glistening iridescence of spilled oil. The product of tragedies and still irresistible to look at. It’s clever without being kitschy.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

WORLD PEACE. But, if I can’t have that….I’d love if Delta by Salvi would make a carbon fiber harp to tour with.

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

I used to have this answer close by but I think my desires are changing. I’m pretty focused on the feelings and the depth of understanding and love and connection to not only other humans but also earth and the stars and the moon. If I toured with a yoga instructor or a poet or a potter who was just as focused on this mission, it would be an honor.

The rider…? Local flowers. Local food. Vegetarian preference; vegan when we can. Fish if it’s fresh.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Focus on what your unique perspective is. Collect the memories and the faces of people who have supported you and what were the feelings you gave them? What did you make them feel like that compelled them to give you appreciation? I believe music is about connecting with other people. Think about the artists you listen to over and over and imagine someone doing that with your music. If you have this platform, what are you going to say with it?

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

Where would you like to see me play? When? Send me an email. I’ll be there.

How does it feel being on stage and connecting with an audience? Do you love performing live?

I love performing live. It feels dangerous. It feels safe. It feels cathartic. It feels naughty. It’s all the feels and I have given up so much to find myself safe in the arms of an audience again and again.

IN THIS PHOTO: Lilith Merlot/PHOTO CREDIT: Rona Lane Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes! We they aren’t new: they’ve been doing art for years but you just may not have heard of them yet!

Jametatone; Lilith Merlot; Cera Impala.

IN THIS PHOTO: Cera Impala

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

I used to watch cooking T.V. and knit. Now...I don’t know. Probably just looking for and eating delicious food.

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

Pilentze Pee from Le Mystère des Voix Bulgares by the Bulgarian State Television Female Choir. You’re going to LOVE this…

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Follow Calvin Arsenia

Official:

https://www.calvinarsenia.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CalvinArsenia/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/calvinarsenia/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/calvinarsenia

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3g1eeQYw5B7LJibFbWlrfn?si=W5Jl_v63Qgq1reSL9V1yfQ

INTERVIEW: Layla Kardan

INTERVIEW:

Layla Kardan

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WITH her album, Saved, out on 30th November...

I have been speaking with Layla Kardan about it and what stories/ideas influenced the songs. Kardan explains the influence of Middle Eastern music and the sounds she grew up around; if she has a favourite memory from her time in music and what comes next.

I ask if there are albums that mean a lot to her and which rising artists we need to look out for; if she gets chance to detach from music and which artists she’d support on tour given the chance.

__________

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

Hi! Thanks for this opportunity. This week, I have been working on my private listening launch – getting all the elements together for the presentation to press and key industry people. I shot a video clip for my first song from the album, Goddess, which was a long but beautiful day of high-fashion and sensual dance. I can’t wait for the unveiling of the video later this month. I went to Muscat, Oman for a private performance. I had a dress fitting at Tom Ford. Tonight, I will perform at the Chopard gala dinner at the Armani Hotel.

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

I am a global citizen, an eternal wanderer; feminine divine seeking adventure and meaning. I am originally from Iran but have been raised in the West so am very open to the world and love connecting with people from different cultures/religions/beliefs. I am hungry for life and thirsty for experience. I tell stories through my music. I am a bohemian at heart but love high-fashion.  My music is raw, honest; sensual and spiritual with fat bass and edgy production. I’m like a dark fairy who wants to only communicate through music.

Saved is your new album (out on 30th November). Are there particular themes that inspired the songs?

Love. Heartbreak. The oppression of Middle Eastern women and the expectation to conform and breaking away from that. An up-yours to all the people who expect that from me. And an up-yours to bigots in my community who think music and singing is reserved for ‘bad women’.

The album is about being ‘saved’; being reborn into a winged thing, shedding myself of my ego so that I can raise my vibration. Shedding my mask and coming into my skin to be true to myself.

Do you have a favourite track from the record?

All the Beauty. The song came from a place of darkness. I did some inward journeying and some growth to be able to then shift my perception of the world; seeing it for ‘all its beauty’ rather than the darkness and the cold.

You were born in Belgium but moved to the United Arab Emirates – and you are an Australian national. With Iranian roots too; how do all these nationalities and nations bleed into your work?!

I am absolutely inspired by the different countries I have lived in and the cultures I have immersed myself in. My lyrics are in English, my melodies Pop and jazzy; my production has subtle Middle Eastern undertones with use of warped Setar and daf sounds (traditional Persian Instruments); the rhythms of certain songs are typical of the sounds of the Gulf region – U.A.E. is in the Gulf.

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

I didn't grow up in a musical family but I'm told that I was drawn to music from the age of one. I feel music in my veins and in my heart. Persian music has a lot of tribal sounding 6/8 beats and interesting high-pitched instruments playing melodies. I feel those sounds influenced my music style. I also started dancing classical ballet at the age of four so I feel dancing thrree times a week helped me develop an ear for music.

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

I want my music to be heard in many different countries in the world. To reach the ears and hearts of people who are interested in a story different to theirs, but can relate to it all the same.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I have some international gigs booked already. I will spend the summer between London and Los Angeles to work on my next project.

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

My first performance of original music where Sotheby’s presented me as a local artist with a performance in their gallery alongside a Cecil Beaton exhibition. And winning Emirates Woman Woman Artist of the Year in 2017

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

Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds Vol. 1 by Jill Scott

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill

Love Deluxe by Sade

These three women and artists I hold in such high regard for their individuality, true artistry; incredible voices and their ability to convey so much emotion in their music. I grew up with all three albums on-repeat and they remain my go to albums today. It’s the lyrics, the music; the power and the grace of each of these women and their perfect deliveries on their respective albums that made me want to write songs.

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

I'd definitely want to support Sade and I would want fifty dancers on stage with me - all women in a spectacular production celebrating women.

I am not a diva (yet) I just need a quiet space with candles, a gong and some paolo santo and an Epsom salt bath for after the show. I'll add some oxygen and Liquid Gold drink just to be fancy. I'd want my producer and dear friend Miloux with me too.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I am a new artist coming through! But, my advice is stay true to your art and sound and don’t feel the pressure to create music for the charts. You don’t need a label to cut through. The digital world allows you so much reach. Stay disciplined and determined. Don’t let your flame die - you only live one life.

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

At the moment, I am performing a lot in the Middle East and planning my dates in Europe and the U.S.A. soon.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Seinabo Sey

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Seinabo Sey; SEVDALIZA; Cleo Sol; Masego; KALEO.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Cleo Sol

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

Not at the moment – I am super-busy. But, whenever I get a chance I escape to nature. I love swimming in the ocean or going to the desert or climbing a mountain. I also love to travel to new and different places.

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

I Owe You Nothing by Seinabo Sey

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Follow Layla Kardan

Official:

https://www.laylakardan.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Layla-Kardan-566098436845128/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/laylakardan/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/layla_kardan

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6anm3koLvedUfsUdmb0uAL?si=G84C2Ay7RF240m5Cgig4BA

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChn_4NYHafj-9e5SBehwSoA

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/user-217439403

INTERVIEW: Jean-Mikhael

INTERVIEW:

Jean-Mikhael

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TODAY starts with Jean-Mikhael telling me about...

his new E.P., The Deal, and what themes inspired it. I ask what he has coming up and which artists influenced him growing up. Jean-Mikhael talks about playing the young Michael Jackson on the stage and the importance of that; which rising artist to watch and the three albums that mean the most to him.

I ask what advice he would give to artists emerging and how he chills outside of music; if he has anything he wants to achieve before the end of the year and if touring might be a future possibility – he ends the interview by selecting a classic Michael Jackson cut.

__________

Hi, Jean-Mikhael. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi. I’m well, thank you. How are you? Aaaaah. This week has been crazy. Just released my debut E.P., The Deal. The response has been immense. I charted in the R&B/Soul iTunes charts at number-eight. Especially for someone that’s just put it out and among my team and label this was cast as my soft release, so it's just amazing to know that my music has reached out to people. It was so unexpected but such a huge blessing.

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

So. My name is Jean-Mikhael; born and raised in West London, I’m twenty-two. I started singing from a very young age. You could say around five. Then, because of everyone around me saying how well I could sing, I just took it on and ran with it and from the reactions I would get I loved doing it. So, music just became my life in the end really and that’s all I knew I wanted to do. Perform and (haha) perform.  

Your E.P., The Deal, is new. What sort of themes and ideas inspired it?

The idea of the E.P. came quite organically. I was with my producer Akara and we recorded, say, around twenty to thirty songs in two months or so with no agenda. I was making the music and having fun. I brought some people in and most times I wrote by myself. When I write, it’s normally to do with maybe a situation I’m going through or someone else’s story I’ve heard and thought would be a good one to express through my music. I like to empower people and I think that’s just something I have always stuck with. 

So, when it comes to writing, I automatically think about making people believe my words and feel they can do whatever they want. To also understand we can relate as well. By the time I had put together the E.P., I decided to call it the single name because it was my first record deal I was signing and also it was showing people this is my story, my truth…so here's ‘The Deal’. 

You appeared as Michael Jackson in the West End musical Thriller. How does that experience and your time at the BRIT School inspire and affect your music?

That really shaped me as a performer. I think playing a young M.J. at such a young age made me learn what it is to be an artist even more. Music-wise and regarding vocal ability at that age, I was compared to him at times so that just stuck with me. Wanting to be a PERFORMER, a showman. Give people what they came for. I don’t believe artists should be so lazy on stage. I want that when you see me; you’re dying for my next show because I make your body part of mine. To every single person in that room; whether it’s 100 or 50,000. I want you to feel like you're feeling my every move because of the charisma I have. So, that definitely defined me to work very hard. With BRIT School; I loved being there but then I felt restricted at times. I also was a little bit rebellious, you could say, in my own way. I knew I wanted to be an artist and that was it.

Teachers would ask me to sing a certain genre in their way and I would say no. Maybe that was my way of saying I wanted to be my own person but in a non-explanatory way (haha). I wanted to soar that’s for sure, but it definitely taught me how to be a businessman as well in the game. My mum didn’t know loads about the business but she said I want you to learn it for yourself. So that’s what I had to do. I had to learn how to understand every single side from the academics of it to my performance; how to read music, learn instruments; produce. I definitely would say it helped me grow to become strong in this game. I thank those two monumental moments in my life - being young M.J. and being a student at BRIT School - for really showing me such a great insight into the business. 

Can you give me a sense of the artists you grew up around? When did music come into your life?

As I said before; it was around the age of five. My mum would listen to people like Al Green, Aretha Franklin; Andrea Bocelli (that’s an amazing Opera singer); then there would be my sister who would listen to Brandy, Destiny’s Child; Alicia Keys and I think it was her music that then moulded me into loving people like Beyoncé, Chris Brown and Usher. All these R&B/Pop artists that are phenomenal and have so much stage presence. 

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

By the end of 2018, I hope to see my numbers rise in terms of whose listening to my music. To just see the music gliding more and more. Have more fans and hopefully some shows come through too. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

For 2019, that is definitely going to be a big year. There is so much planned but I really want everyone to just see the work happen and appreciate it. I have a little part of me that doesn’t always like revealing things simply because life is very unpredictable and everything I have I prayed for, worked for and gave to the universe…but you have your times where it won’t happen straight away and I want people to feel the moment when it’s here. But, I will drop one word which is ‘America’. 

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

My favourite memory would be performing at People's Day. The reaction was crazy and, if I may add another one, it would be releasing this E.P. and getting number-eight on the iTunes R&B/Soul charts. 

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

All three of my own future albums are the ones that mean the most to me (laughs). No, I joke. I would say Alicia Keys – Songs in A Minor

It means a lot to me because, at that time, I started singing her really famous song Fallin’ everywhere. That album was just amazing. One of her best works.

Beyoncé – The Beyoncé  Experience

Beyoncé came to really find herself in that album. The performance, production and vocals were just on another level. I remember listening to the live version of that album all the time. Her concert, The Beyoncé Experience. It was mesmerising and I wanted that appeal so much. Just for people to listen and see me performing and think, ‘WOW’. It definitely inspired me to be a performer as well.

Prince – Purple Rain

This album is so reckless and slightly controversial to be honest. That’s what I loved. It was unapologetic and a bit of a fu*k you to the world. I can sing what I like. Prince generally was that guy and it's definitely a motto of mine. People love you when you’re true. I am someone completely different on stage and off. I become a light, a fire. My stage is my playground and he show’s that so much. Being this extravaganza on stage. It's fascinating.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be? 

Well. Growing up, I never celebrated Christmas. So, it's not really something I do much of. But, all I ask is that I have a prosperous life and can keep doing what I am doing and continue to inspire people. 

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

It would be Beyoncé. I would want water, a nice scented room; food for my crew, anything to make sure my vocals are on-point and somewhere I can just rest for the show. I just want whatever's going to make the best. I don’t really eat before shows so water is my best friend, but food after is always a great thing. I am a foodie.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep going, keep going. Believe in yourself. Listen to some people sometimes, but if your heart really says ‘no’ then go with it. Be creative and think out of the box. Make your own lane and be a businessperson alongside your creativeness. 

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

I don’t have any tour dates as such yet but they will be coming. Right now, it's just putting the music out but I am going to have some eventually. I might be performing on 15th November for Ticketmaster but that’s not confirmed yet so keep your eyes peeled for that on my socials if it is going ahead. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Sharna Bass

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I really like Sharna Bass. She’s cool. Dope tone to her voice. 

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

I try to, but with success come hard work, so not a lot really. When I do though, most times it's in my house with family or friends or we go out to eat, which I’m cool with because I don’t like going out all the time, but to get to the next level I have to keep working nonstop. I am a bit of a workaholic. 

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).

Nice. Well let's play Michael Jackson – Remember the Time. I love that song

__________

Follow Jean-Mikhael

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TheJeanMikhael/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thejeanmikhael/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Thejeanmikhael

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6Hmjn0d17bTM6e4dLTWxNz?si=HawvzRbGTHK0NpRoePVMQQ

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCc-EaMvH7NjzD_KA24EW01Q

INTERVIEW: Trapdoor Social

INTERVIEW:

Trapdoor Social

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I have been speaking with Skylar Funk of Trapdoor Social...

who tells me about the band’s new single, Hold Me Down, and how they came together; how the line-up has changed and what is coming next from the guys – he highlights some rising artists to look out for closely.

I was keen to know more about the band’s environmental ethics/motives and whether there are gigs emerging; if Skylar has any favourite album and whether there is time to relax away from the band – each member selects a song to end things with.

__________

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

Hey! We're great. Real bittersweet week actually...just played our goodbye show with our drummer Ben, who's moving up to the Bay Area for grad school, his girlfriend and generally greener pastures. So, that's tough...but it was a great show! And a great few years together. So much love.  

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

We are Trapdoor Social, an L.A. band since 2011 and we play Indie/Alternative-Rock (or something), often outdoors using solar power. We created and ran Sunstock Solar Festival for the last three years as well.

How did Trapdoor Social get together? When did you all meet?

Merritt Graves and I (Skylar Funk) met at Pomona College in the Environmental Analysis department. We spent a handful of all-nighters in the same computer lab talking about the music we loved and the challenges our planet is facing... and then, a couple years later after school, we decided to start the band. The rest of the guys have come and gone (I guess Louie hasn't gone anywhere) from all kinds of places (like Craigslist).

You are all environmental activists. Does the band have a mandate/mission regarding the environment and conservation?

So, I guess, really, the thing that concerns Merritt and I are existential threats and, at the base of that, the moral assertion that living things shouldn't suffer any more than they have to. So, for example, if we destroy the environment; a huge number of earth's inhabitants will be negatively affected and so we shouldn't do that. But there are a couple other important existential threats to watch out for as well - namely nuclear war and runaway artificial intelligence. Just...things we should be careful with.

Hold Me Down is the new single. Can you explain the story behind it?

Hold Me Down was a collaborative songwriting experience which was actually a bit frustrating for me personally. I'm glad it came together though...this one is super-fun to play. The message of the song is about how we know there are big, serious problems in the world we need to deal with (see above)…but how it's all forgotten when matters of the heart come into play. Like, in verse two: "Oh no/the world is going under/and we sit here twiddling our thumbs/our love is the least of our problems/but you say one word and I jump!” 

Will there be more material coming next year?

Oh, yeah. We've been recording for over a year and we have more songs than we can fit even on a full-length album. So, you might not hear it all but you'll hear a full album!

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

Oh, man; that's soon! I hope to have jammed and/or collaborated with a good handful of other artists and I hope we have the album finished and ready to drop. I hope to have some cool new songs written and I hope to have my little studio set up again. I had to take it apart to make room for my girlfriend's sister when she moved to L.A. and stayed with us for a while. Haha.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

2019 will be The Year of the Artist! Stay tuned to find out what that means (smiles).

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

This might be proximity bias...but last night I supported my friend Kinney at her show at the Satellite in Silver Lake. It was a fun set, and at the end, the people called for an encore...for which we were completely not prepared. The rhythm section started grooving in Bb, which is a great key for me, so I Got Down. 

I had my baritone sax and she had another gentleman playing an upright bass (with a wireless mic) and, at one point, we both hopped down into the crowd and danced wildly while playing. There was AcroYoga happening; the crowd was going nuts, the jam was insane. It was pretty special.

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

Wow; that's tough. Death Cab for Cutie's Transatlanticism? 22, A Million from Bon Iver? Florence and the Machine's Ceremonials, or The Heist by Macklemore? All super-formative and I'm sorry, you asked for just one....

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

I would want to open for Postal Service (on tour for the next album they'll release, of course) and there would be massage and a vegan feast complete with chocolate fountain. At the end, Ben Gibbard would join us for an acoustic cover of Brand New Colony. While both of us crowd-surf. 

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

We do not have any dates planned. Gotta get a new player or two first! We can always play acoustic, though...

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would encourage a new artist to seek balance. You can't make art if you can't pay the bills or keep yourself sane. Losing our drummer really emphasizes that for me - he was young and talented and committed to our band...but his life in L.A. was too hard. You gotta make your life work ok - take care of yourself - so you can spend all the time it takes to become the artist you want to be. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Karmic

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

For sure! Real stoked about a few of the bands we had on our solar stage at Sunstock. Karmic is a super-fun Indie-Pop act and have become dear friends and Top Shelf Brass Band from Riverside is just the most fun I know how to have. Beyond that, I recommend you watch out for The Dip from Seattle, which is super-groovy Retro-Soul.

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

Yeah. I get me time here and there. I play ice hockey every week and ultimate frisbee when I can and I play Magic: The Gathering, because apparently just being in band isn't quite nerdy enough for me. Weeeeee

Oh, yeah...and hot sauce. I'm a huge fan of hot sauce. I've collected it all over the U.S. and beyond and I make my own as well. I've been selling it for a few years now and it's really fun. Check it out.

Finally, and thanks 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).

Fun! I've been rocking out to Superposition by Young the Giant

Merritt says Big Black Delta - Dreary Moon

Louie says Alabama Shakes - Gimme Me All Your Love

Thanks for your time and interest!

__________

Follow Trapdoor Social

Official:

http://www.trapdoorsocial.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TrapdoorSocial/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/trapdoorsocial/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/TrapdoorSocial

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5SancUuEIRjnkYtglSRe8Q?si=pGMlNMH9RguWUNsm54Uq3g

Bandcamp:

https://trapdoorsocial.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: C. SHIROCK

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Daniella Midenge

C. SHIROCK

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THANKS to C. SHIROCK for telling me about...

his latest single, Confess Your Love, and the great personal story behind it. I ask him about his start in music and the sounds that influence him; whether he has anything else to give before the end of the year and what comes along next year.

He reveals some rising artists worth a look and albums important to him; if we can see him play anytime soon and whether the Nashville-bases artist gets time to unwind and relax away from music – C. SHIROCK selects a great song to end the interview with.

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Hi, C. SHIROCK. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m doing well! I’m currently in Los Angeles and about to head to Nashville for my birthday and some recording sessions. The last two weeks have been really incredible. Confess Your Love came out; the music video came out a week after. I’ve been in the studio finishing up a few more singles for early next year…and we’re wrapping up the edit for the music video for Stand with Me Tonight, which will be the second single coming out Nov. 30th! So, a lot happening but it’s exciting to finally be sharing all of this new work.

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

My name is Chuck SHIROCK – my artist name is ‘C. SHIROCK’. I am based between Nashville, TN and Los Angeles, CA. My music is Alternative Pop – my favourite comparison’s I’ve read are ‘modern Peter Gabriel, Phil Collins…a little bit of Prince, U2…’ When I read that, I immediately felt like that was something I’d want to hear! I had a band called SHIROCK for a long time before starting the C. SHIROCK solo project. We toured a ton, performed with bands such as Twenty One Pilots, Cage the Elephant; Manchester Orchestra and tons of other inspiring acts. Confess Your Love is the first single off of my upcoming collection of songs, which will continue to come out monthly into 2019.

PHOTO CREDIT: Emilia Paré

Confess Your Love is new. What is the story behind the song?

Confess Your Love was written about meeting my partner for the first time. We met in Tulum, Mexico entirely by chance…

I had bought a one-way ticket to Mexico and she was there with a friend. I was going through a life reset/new beginning of sorts and, the short version is, I was having dinner by myself at Hartwood (incredible restaurant in Tulum) and she was there with a group of friends. I saw her when she walked in and knew I wanted to talk to her. I was immediately drawn to her and I promised myself I would leave without at least telling her I thought she was beautiful. I kept trying to find a way to say something and slowly the entire restaurant cleared out except for me and her group. They got up to leave and I also walked out; she was in a conversation with a guy – I thought I had missed my chance…I was standing on the sidewalk with my bike, looking down at my phone and, all of a sudden, I hear this voice: “Are you okay?” I looked up and it was her. 

I smiled and laughed a little bit and gave her my long-rehearsed monologue about seeing her when she came in and wanting to tell her I thought she was beautiful…she smiled and asked if I wanted to walk her and her friend back to their hotel. I did, and we ended up meeting up the following day and the day after…neither of us thought we’d ever see one another again so we just opened up fully and connected really deeply. She left Mexico and I had another two weeks there. After going back to Nashville, I knew I had to see her again. I flew out to Los Angeles to see her and try to figure out what just had happened. We quickly fell in love, and…here we are today (smiles).

What was it like putting the video together? Was it fun to shoot?

This was a really fun video to shoot – a ton of preparation and work to shoot in a foreign country but, as these things tend to do, it all came together last minute. We shot the majority of the video in a small colonial town called Valladolid, which is about two hours from Tulum. The city was the perfect backdrop to tell the story of a couple meeting and falling in love.

We pulled most of the inspiration from my actual experience - when I met my now fiancé a few years ago. We took some artistic liberty in the re-telling of the story and wanted to play on the idea of those little encounters and moments that, if taken, can change the entire course of our lives. In the video you don’t, at the end, know what transpired actually happened or if it was a what if…

Might we see more material coming? What is next for you?

Yes! The second single, Stand with Me Tonight, comes out November 30th and the music video Dec. 7th. Then, I have a surprise in the works for mid-December (smiles). We’ll have a little break into January, then pick back up with single releases, music video; select shows and a full album early-summer. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Daniella Midenge

Can you give me a sense of the artists you grew up around? When did music come into your life?

I grew up in a very musical and artistic family. My mom was ballet dancer and my dad is a great Jazz guitarist. My grandfather (Dad’s side) was a professional Jazz pianist and I and my three siblings all started playing piano when we were really young. I actually didn’t grow up listening to too much music – I was in the Philippines until I was eight, then Scotland until about thirteen.

So, I ended up spending a lot of time writing on piano and composing…although I had no idea that’s what I actually was doing. It wasn’t really until I came to the U.S. (Detroit) and started really listening to the radio that I completely fell in love with Pop and Rock music. Into college, I really was introduced to the artists that have shaped my musical understanding…Radiohead, Peter Gabriel; U2, Prince; Bruce Springsteen, Jeff Buckley; Sigur Rós, Bob Dylan; Madonna etc…

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

This is a busy end of the year for me and my team! Before the year is done, I have another single coming out Nov. 30th (Stand with Me Tonight); a music video Dec. 7th and a surprise mid-December…meanwhile; I’m also in the studio finishing up a few other songs for early 2019…and, on a personal side, my birthday is coming up and I’m finishing up a house renovation project! So…a lot’s happening at once (smiles).

PHOTO CREDIT: Allister Ann

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes! I’ve been in the studio writing and recording through most of 2018, so I have a series of singles lined up to continue releasing into 2019. I can’t wait to share this new music – it feels like my producer (Thomas Doeve) and I have been in the studio this past year writing and working, and I can’t wait to share all of this new music. 

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

There have been so many beautiful memories so far. Touring with some of my best friends, performing main stage at festivals for thousands and thousands of people; hearing myself on the radio for the first time…but I think my absolute favourite is when I meet people whose lives have been impacted by the music. I’ve received letters, emails and talked in person with fans who have shared how a song or a lyric helped get them through loss of a loved one, heartbreak or difficult times. Without a doubt, those are the most important memories and what I love most about getting to create music. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Allister Ann

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

Wow – what a great question…

Peter Gabriel - So

I didn’t discover this album until a long time after it was put out…but the sounds, production and sonic landscape of this record brought a new understanding of what Pop music could sound and feel like. 

U2 - The Joshua Tree

This record redefined what Pop/Rock music can be and the emotion that music can carry. The lyric, the delivery; the way the music and vocals combine to form something entirely unique and so compelling was a revolution for me.

Jeff Buckley – Grace

My roommate in college introduced me to Jeff Buckley – and it changed everything for me. It shaped the way I approached singing and what was possible with my voice. It was like, all of a sudden, I had permission to explore and use my voice as an instrument. 

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

Such a tricky question! I would love to tour with a real Popstar. Mostly for selfish reasons! I have so much to learn from someone like George Michael, Michael Jackson; Madonna…I’d love to see them night after night.

PHOTO CREDIT: Emilia Paré

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be courageous in your art. We have enough people chasing what already exists. You have a unique voice and interpretation…chase that. Make music that turns you on and, when you deliver it in the studio or live, give it everything you have. Write music that matters. Too many people chase formulas and don’t have anything to say. Tell the stories that are yours alone to tell. Move us with your music. We’re all waiting to be emotionally moved.

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

I love touring – I can’t wait to be back out performing this new music. I will be touring in 2019 – plans are currently underway for tours in the summer as my album will be released. For the latest info, you can follow me on social media, or on my website.

IN THIS PHOTO: Mikky Ekko

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Being based in Nashville, I have the privilege of being surrounded by so much great music…some incredible artists. Mikky Ekko is amazing; COIN is a great Alt/Pop/Rock band from Nashville also. Daniella Mason is an upcoming pop artist as is Whit. Daniella and Whit both sang vocals on Confess Your Love. Also, my brother is an incredible producer and writer and his project is called Kind. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Daniella Mason

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

I get a little bit of time. I feel very fortunate that my job is something I love so much. Even with it being my profession, I still like to begin each day at the piano before I’ve made my coffee and I often find myself back at the piano at the end of the day! I have a vintage motorcycle I love riding. I also grew up playing soccer and still play often. I love reading – I get so much inspiration from poetry books. A favourite is the late Irish poet, John O’Donohue and another is Pablo Neruda. 

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).

Ha! Okay…not my music – this has been a favourite lately – Reckless Love by Elle King and Bleachers. I love Jack Antonoff’s approach to writing and production. I think he’s a genius

__________

Follow C. SHIROCK

PHOTO CREDIT: Daniella Midenge

Official:

http://www.cshirock.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/cshirock/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cshirock/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/cshirock

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6rclmdstz3sdi2HTLzXJwg?si=FhiXsdPQT_qCC6givhVedA

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/cshirock

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/cshirock

INTERVIEW: Emily Magpie

INTERVIEW:

Emily Magpie

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MY last interview of the day is with Emily Magpie...

who has been telling about her E.P., Be Your Own Light, and filming the video for the title cut. I was keen to know what sort of music inspires her and when it struck her; if there is a rising artist we need to get behind and what she has planned for next year.

The talented songwriter reveals a few favourite albums and where we can catch her perform; which artist she’d support if she had the chance and whether she gets time to chill away from music – she selects an awesome modern song to end the interview with.

__________

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

Hi, Sam! I’m currently in Belgium, recovering from a couple too many (and too delicious) Belgium beers last night after my gig. I’m out here doing a few shows with Uncle Wellington - beautiful band and country!

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

I loop layers of vocals, ukulele; synth bass and beats to make dreamy Electro-Folk music with some oomph-y bass under it. I’m a singer songwriter and producer- D.I.Y., man!

Be Your Own Light is your new single. What is the inspiration behind the song?

I was exploring my patterns in relationships and looking at my relationship with myself. I wrote it almost as a mantra or magic spell of self-love and wanted to extend that out to other people that might resonate.

The video looks cool! What was it like filming that?!

Nowhere near as glamorous as it look. Haha! It involved a lot of glitter and bike lights...my sister Meghan Spetch is a genius animator and filmmaker (working on Our Planet currently) and she created the whole concept from very little.

Be Your Own Light is from the E.P. of the same name. Were there particular themes and stories that inspired the songs?

Yeah. I don’t tend to write too much about love and relationships as I feel there are so other things to talk about. But, this E.P. has four songs on it - that I wrote this year – and are all about my growth in terms of my relationships and myself...and I wanted to put them all together and have a body of work exploring that.

Can you give me a sense of the artists you grew up around? When did music come into your life?

So many different artists! I think that’s why my stuff is so eclectic...

I grew up being introduced to bands like Modest Mouse, the Pixies and Nirvana by my brother; being a bit of an Emo kid and listening to Brand New, but also loving R&B. And I used to sing in a Jazz band as a teenager and loved all the old Jazz and Soul songs - plus, artists like Fleetwood Mac via my parents.

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

Not got long left. Haha! Something quick. I think just enjoying playing the new E.P. live and continuing writing and developing ideas for an album next.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

The aforementioned album. I’ve written an album of songs which all fit on a concept and I want to develop, record and produce that. 

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

I’m loving being in Belgium at the moment actually; wicked to travel with music. Also, playing support to This Is the Kit this year in a church was beautiful. I love their music.

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

How can I choose?! It’s like picking a favourite child.

Okay; right NOW...

Jai Paul - Jai Paul

Because I actually managed to get my mitts on a copy! A label I’m working with next year managed to grab one of these when it got leaked years ago and passed on a copy to me recently. Jai Paul is a genius. I learn so much from the way he produces and builds songs.

Radiohead - OK Computer

I was obsessed with Radiohead. I can’t listen to it too much now as it makes me sad but this album reminds me of a very introspective time.

Sylvan Esso - Sylvan Esso

This album is filled with songs that make me feel so much. I’m always playing it.

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

Sylvan Esso! Saw them at SWX (Bristol) and they look like they have such a good time. I’d get a ton of beers so we could get pissed and party after the show. And maybe some Skittles or something.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make music you believe in; explore and be playful. Release lots, gig lots; be nice.

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

26th Nov - The Louisiana, Bristol (supporting Lydmor)

22nd Dec - Jinglefest at The Exchange, Bristol

 IN THIS PHOTO: Anna Pancaldi

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friend Anna Pancaldi just had a release recently too. She makes beautiful music.

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

I’m chilling now(ish)... 

I am a bit obsessed with music and can work too much. I’m trying to keep a balance. I don’t like how obsessed we are with work in U.K. culture. It’s not cool to be busy all the time. I just try and do things I enjoy outside of music every week and make the most of opportunities music provides (to have adventures too). I’m off exploring for the next two days before my gig on Sunday in Gent.

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).

So tempting to choose something ridiculous and you’ll have to play it. But, no...I choose IDLES - Mother. These guys excite me a LOT

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Follow Emily Magpie

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/EmilyMagpie1

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/emilymagpie1/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/emilyspetch

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7pVUDWzKKoTkhBZTB46SyQ

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/emily-magpie

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0brLwFO51jpCnTCW3fZTKA