INTERVIEW: Phé

INTERVIEW:

Phé

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IT has been great speaking with Phé...

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about her new E.P., Crisis, and what sort of themes inspired it. I ask her whether she has a favourite cut from the E.P. and the artists/albums that mean a lot to her; whether she has any plans worked out for 2019 and which rising acts we should keep an eye out for.

The U.S. songwriter tells me about Los Angeles and how important it was moving there; what advice she would give to artists coming through right now and how she spends time away from music – Phé ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hey! My week has been good. Pretty crazy, but good! I released my debut E.P. on Friday (December 14th) and then flew home to Canada on the 16th, so it’s been a packed weekend.

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

My name is Phé. I’m twenty-four years old, and I’m an independent, contemporary R&B artist, originally from Vancouver Canada but currently living in Los Angeles. I attended the Berklee College of Music where I studied Songwriting, Vocal Performance and Music Business. And it was actually during my time at Berklee that I decided to pursue a full-time career as a solo artist and songwriter.

Fun fact: I love Disney movies - I know, essentially, all the words to all the songs from the Disney Princess movies. I also really love musical theatre and wanted to be on Broadway growing up.

Crisis is your new E.P. What sort of themes and idea inspired the songs?

My debut E.P., Crisis, follows my first experience with love and heartbreak. It explores themes of love and heartbreak but, deeper than that, it really takes a look at my experience with love at a young age and how I lost myself in the relationship. So, when it ended, I felt like I had lost myself and my sense of worth. So, the project looks at the ideas of self-love and self-worth; sexual exploration and sexuality; mental-health, drug and alcohol abuse and how I dealt with those things throughout my relationship and breakup.

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

That’s a hard one for me! They all hold a really special place in my heart because they played such a large role in my healing process. But, Incredible is definitely my baby because it was the first song I wrote that felt like something I would want to release as an artist. It was my first exploration as an artist and was really the catalyst for my journey as Phé.

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music? Who do you count as idols?

Some of the artists I really look up to are Erykah Badu, Sade and Lauryn Hill. These three women really stood out and impacted me when I was young! They all hold such an incredible power and have their own special feminine energy that I really admire - and that spoke to me from a very young age. Growing up, I would listen to their music, watch videos of their live performances - and music videos - and was just so drawn to the way they carried themselves, expressed their stories and invited the listeners into their space. Each is super-different and I look to each of them for something different.

You are based in Los Angeles. How important is the city and the people regarding your sound and drive?

Moving to L.A, was a huge step for me and was not an easy transition at all. It’s a giant city with a lot of people - a majority of who seem to be in the entertainment industry in some capacity. So, that was super-overwhelming for me! But, having started to find my groove - and settle in here -, I’ve been able to take advantage of how great of a city it is.

A large chunk of my community from Berklee is actually in L.A., so I’m lucky enough to have a huge support system and a large network of creatives to work with. It keeps me in check and allows for me to always be creating and collaborating with amazing people that I wouldn’t be able to work with in the same way, if I wasn’t in L.A. I think being in the middle of all the action (which, for the music industry, mostly takes place in L.A.) is super-important. It allows you to be in spaces and make connections that you just don’t have access to in other cities.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I definitely have plans for 2019! With the E.P. finished and released that frees up a lot of time to work on writing and recording music new music. I don’t have anything set in terms of the next release - I want to enjoy this release and let the next project happen organically. But, I am always creating and working on new stuff so, as I create more, the next project will become a little more concrete.

I also want to play more shows in 2019 because I love being on stage and playing live. Beyond that, I’ve recently started playing around with production which has been a lot of fun and has helped me to find a new outlet of expression! So, I want to keep learning and building up that skill.

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

I would have to say my most recent, favorite memory would be a show I played at Winston House in Venice. The space and the audience had such a beautiful energy and we were all just present and there sharing this moment together. It was a space where I felt truly seen and heard and where my music got to speak for itself - and people were super-receptive of that.

I feel like in today’s social climate, we don’t often get moments where everyone is present and open and to feel that energy of support and presence from a crowd of people - and then to be able to give that same energy back - was a really beautiful and transcendent experience.

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

This one is a little tough for me because there's a lot of music out there that hold a special place in my heart or life. A lot of my memories are associated with music or with events that surrounded music, so to pick three that means the most is a bit of a challenge. But I think, overall, the albums that really opened my eyes and inspired me to be the honest, vulnerable and explorative artist that I am are the following:

Frank Ocean - Chanel Orange

I had never heard an album like this before and the first time I heard it, I was immediately hooked and inspired. It’s so smart, so well done and is a beautiful body of work that takes the listener (or at least me)on a new journey every time. The sonics, language; imagery and stories in this album are all so beautifully crafted and expressed. Frank invites the listener into these intimate and personal moments. And not only that, but he paint such great pictures of each moment: one can’t help but feel like that are there or they experienced it themselves.

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Solange - A Seat at the Table

This album speaks to me heavy. Solange tells these stories of her experience as a young woman of color in such a poetic and beautiful way, even though the experiences or emotions that she is depicting really tough and painful things to go through. Her art of storytelling, both musically and visually, honestly blows me away. She is gentle with herself, yet commands this unmistakable power.

Having also interned for Solange and her team, and seeing the songs come to life in a live performance setting, was also a magical experience that really opened my eyes and mind as a young woman and artist. Every moment is so well thought out and has so much intention. And, I think that's a huge lesson that we as young people need to learn regardless of our race, class; social status, career path etc. To move through life purpose and intention...

Lastly, I would say the soundtracks to the Disney Princess Movies that were released between 1989 and 1998 - Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid; Mulan, Pocahontas; Aladdin and Hercules, even though they aren’t technically ‘princess’ movies.

These movies and their soundtracks were sort of how I started singing as a little girl. I would sit and re-watch them over and over; singing along to every word of every song - and that's how I taught myself to sing. They were my first exploration of my voice and allowed me to feel free and happy. Even now, when I’m not feeling so great or just need to be cheered up, my boyfriend will put on a song from one of these movies and it honestly perks me right up. I will dance around our apartment singing along at the top of my lungs and, by the time the song is over, I almost always feel better.

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

For Christmas this year, I would ask that you - my family, friends and fans - share my E.P. with one other person who hasn’t heard of me or of the project. That would mean so much! I just want my music to bring clarity and healing to people’s lives.

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

My rider would be pretty simple, honestly. I’m not too fussy. Ahaha. It would probably include bourbon, honey; lemon and hot water for a nice hot toddy to loosen the nerves a bit pre-show, without drying out the vocal cords too much. Some snacks that aren’t too heavy for before the show - fruits/berries and veg (no honeydew, cantaloupe; peppers or mushrooms) - hummus, crackers and maybe like assorted Clif Bars.

And hot Cheetos and Sour Patch Kids for a post-show snack! (Laughs).

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Trust your instincts; be honest with yourself and try to be as objective as possible when it comes to the business of your craft. The universe didn’t show everyone else your vision or your purpose: it showed you! So, trust yourself and listen to how people, spaces; situations, your music; the choices you are faced with and the way you are going about building your career make you feel. Is it authentic? Does it satisfy your spirit?

With that, it’s also important to be honest with yourself and as objective as possible when it comes to running your business - which is your brand, your music and your career. What are your strengths? What isn’t working? Why? What needs to change or could improve? These are questions that we need to constantly be asking ourselves and re-evaluating.

There are a lot of people out there that can help you but there are also people will take advantage of you. There are people who want the best for you and those that want the best for themselves. But, at the end of the day, you hold the power for how far you can go. So, be sure you are having that internal dialogue and constantly checking in with yourself. Just be real. Be you. That's what the world needs and people resonate with that.

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

I am working on some dates for the New Year but, right now, I have one gig with Sofar Sounds confirmed for January - location T.B.A. but everything will be announced on my socials.

Follow me on the socials to stay up to date on future shows!

IN THIS PHOTO: Jessie Munro

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ouuu...there are so many! Especially because a lot of my friends are in music and have really amazing projects.

Jessie Munro is INCREDIBLE! She released a project a couple months ago and it’s soo good. LILI N is an Italian R&B/Pop artist and songwriter who is about to blow up. Check out her single, Spiritual Level. And, another super-cool up and coming artist is Mafalda. She does really beautiful Indie/Alternative Pop music that will shake your soul.

IN THIS PHOTO: LILI N/PHOTO CREDIT: Lizzie Steimer

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

My chill time is very sporadic and random, because I do generally make my own schedule and I find that I work better when I am busy. Very recently, a lot of my usual free time has been filled with playing around with music production - because that’s something new and exciting to me.

But, outside of music, one of my biggest priorities is spending time with the people I love - my boyfriend and friends (or my family when I am visiting home). I also love Netflix (maybe a little bit too much). I really enjoy cooking and baking. I’ve been exploring the different hiking spots in L.A. and I love going to see live shows when I have the time and money - it’s hard out here for an independent artist (laughs). I also enjoy learning about things like auras and energy, astrology; numerology, human design; holistic healing methods etc.

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).

D’Evils by SiR

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INTERVIEW: Delena

INTERVIEW:

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Delena

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I do not have too many interviews left this year...

but I have been getting to discover more about Delena and her latest track, Animal. She shares the story behind the track and reveals what is coming next – I ask whether there any particular artists and albums that have particularly inspired her.

She talks about plans for next year and what she thinks of modern Pop; whether she gets time to unwind away from music and whether she grew up around a lot of music – Delena ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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

Hi! I’m good! Looking forward to the Christmas holidays and New Year! 

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

For those who don’t know me, I am Delena! I was born in Kiev and my music is inspired by my life growing up there, which wasn’t always easy - and you can see in my song titles it’s very freedom-inspired! 

 

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

The story behind Animal is how I feel and used to feel while growing up (and even sometimes now)! I wanted a song which is strong and powerful and anybody in the world could relate! Animal is a symbol of being free, strong and honest to yourself! People every day are struggling to be who they want to be and it’s not okay! Everyone must be able to speak their minds free! 

Who are the artists that inspired you growing up? Did you grow up around a lot of different music?

I have got a lot of inspiration in my life! As a child, I would listen to Queen and Michael Jackson! I would also listen to Ella Fitzgerald and Etta James! I would always listen to music as a child and I never got tired of it.

What do you think of the modern Pop industry? Do you think it has strengthened over the last few years?

The Pop industry today has developed in so many ways! And I think it did strengthened! Everyone today has got a chance to show their talent in so many ways! And it requires you to be different in so many ways which I think is amazing!  

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Oh, yes! I am so looking forward 2019! I can’t wait to put out new music and work on my album! 

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

I would say that every memory in music is my favorite! I love it so much that I can’t just choose between them!

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

Music is my source of inspiration! It helps me when I’m down and it helps me when I’m up! I don’t know what I would do without it! I would probably end up listening to the winds. Ha-ha.

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

I would ask to be with whole family together because this year we all going to be in the different parts of the world! 

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

I would probably want to support The Weeknd or Bruno Mars! They are great talented artists and I love their music! And, in my rider, I would probably ask for some Ukrainian food like Pirozhki. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say that it’s very important to be true to yourself and understand what you really want! Take advice and be open to anything coming into your life. It’s all happening for a reason! 

Which three albums mean the most to you? 

If I’m honest, I don't really listen to many albums! I mostly listen to singles and go to shows of artists I love. I'm a big fan of Adele, The Weeknd and Sia though. 

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

Not yet! But I will be working on this very hard! 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Kali Uchis

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I really like Kali Uchis! She is so interesting to listen to! Her music can be very inspiring! And also, I like Lauren Jauregui! Her new single is great and the video is amazing!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Lauren Jauregui

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

Usually, I don’t want to chill from music because, as I mentioned before, music is everything to me! But I love to travel and spend time with family! There is nothing better than being all together! 

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).

Could you please pay Kali Uchis - After the Storm 

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INTERVIEW: BABYTEETH

INTERVIEW:

BABYTEETH

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THE epic BABYTEETH...

have been talking with me about their cracking song, Cocoon, and how it came to be; whether there will be any more material coming and how the band came to be – I ask which albums are most important to them and what sort of music compels them.

BABYTEETH tell me whether there are tour dates coming up and who they’d support given the chance; if they have a favourite memory from their time in music so far and what advice they would give to artists coming through - they select me select a quintet of songs to end things with.

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

BITCHIN’! Sam was bitten by a wild animal and fell down a hole in the pub. The rest of us are dandy. We’ve been rehearsing.

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

We used to be babies…and now we have teeth...

Cocoon is your new single. Can you talk about the background and how it came together?

Camilla and Sam write the songs; we then arrange it together in our sweaty little rehearsal room. We recorded this one a little while ago in London with the awesome Cam Blackwood producing it.

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

YES! Itching to share it all with everyone.

How did BABYTEETH get together? What drew you to one another?

We met through friends. And, after all of our periods synced up immediately, we knew it was the perfect match.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Gastón Torres

In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

We just love really great song writing, regardless of genre. There isn’t any music snobbery with us. Our music tastes are pretty eclectic.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

A trip to Chessington World of Adventures with Gareth Gates.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Big ‘yes’. We’re not allowed to tell you yet but it’s gonna be mega. We’re excited. 

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

Playing with Adam Ant this Wednesday will be our best new memory. Unless we fall of stage or piss our pants in front of thousands of people or something.

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

Hole – Live Through This; Beach Boys – Pet Sounds; Deep Purple - Made in Japan; Radiohead - OK Computer; Rage Against the Machine – Rage Against the Machine. Because they inspired us to become musicians and songwriters and give us the belly feels. It’s more fun if you guess which one of us chose what.

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

Garbage. And we’d like a team of dancing dwarves and a massive bottle of Bourbon.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do something else...music’s full. If you just can’t help yourself though then work absolutely ridiculously hard to get better than everyone else - and maybe also be willing to sell an organ or two to pay your rent.

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

Yes - but they’re not announced yet so keep checking in on our Facebook for updates. Thank you, please.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Us, us and us. There are lots of other great acts but we need you more. And we’ll love you more than they will, we promise.

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

Stroking cats, eating chips and snogging people.

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).

Thank you very much for playing our music. We love you more than Santa loves children. As it’s Christmas, we’ll let you pick a song from each of our all-time favourite albums!

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INTERVIEW: Riva Taylor

INTERVIEW:

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Riva Taylor

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I have been lucky enough to speak with the fabulous Riva Taylor...

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about her new single, Mr Right, and its story. I ask whether there is too much pressure put on women to be settled and in relationships; what she has planned as we head into 2019 and a few albums that are important to her.

Taylor tells me about the musicians who inspired her to go into the business; a precious musical memory and whether she gets much chance to chill away from things – she ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hi! It’s been a good week. Christmas festivities in full swing; planning some exciting things for the New Year. Celebrating with friends and forward motion - enjoy both a lot! (Smiles). 

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

Hi. I’m Riva! A singer-songwriter from London. I’ve been singing from before I can remember and making records since I was twelve. 

 

Mr Right is your new single. What is the tale behind the song?

This is a song about music and men. Let’s say the song stuck, the ‘Mr’ didn't. 

It is about the constant that is music in my life. Something that has always been there; a positive force. The song personifies music as a more ideal man. It draws a comparison between the inconsistency and unpredictability of relationships and the constant joy that can be found in music! There is a reference to Adele's Someone Like You in the second verse. The listener could substitute music for any of their passions in life and the song still works (I hope!). If they’re really lucky, they could insert the name of their partner! 

Given the relationship demands and expectations suggested in the title; do you think there is too much pressure on women to settle for someone?

Wow. I could write an essay on this! We are definitely living through an interesting time with some significant changes and shifting attitudes in this area. Women seem to be challenging social norms and expectations more than ever. While there are some undeniable pressures for women by a certain age to settle, I don’t think there is too much with a growing weight placed on gender equality, choice and scientific advances throwing all sorts of interesting questions and options into the ring for women.

I love a podcast and there are constant questions surrounding ideas of polyamory, true love and happiness. Do we need to find a ‘Mr. Right’ to achieve our own self-satisfaction and happiness? I know for many friends, happiness has come in the form of settling down. For others, it’s been understanding and accepting that they don’t need to or there is no rush. There seems to be a greater understanding of our choices when it comes to the quest to achieve our own fulfilment potential! 

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

A whole album’s worth! I can’t wait to share what I’ve been developing the past few years with everyone. 

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

Into music the first time...so many and, at different points in my career as I effectively re-entered music after a pause from it all when I was in my early-twenties. In fact, as a kid on the West End stage, the beginning for me was Streisand and the old Hollywood golden girls who glamorised performance (for me) and made me want to get up there. As I grew up a bit, Annie Lennox, Kate Bush and Sade were all playing in the house when I was a kid and I was obsessed with their music videos and live performances.

They opened my eyes to a world of artistic individuality - their music was as original and authentic as their image felt. And there are still artists who emerge and inspire me to continue and explore new avenues and options for my career. Evolution is so important for any artist - Adele being one. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I’m releasing more music. I’m excited to be heading over to the States to do some more writing early next year - although the album is done I think it’s important to never stop if you’re feeling creative! I’m also really excited to be starting a songwriting night at The Roundhouse which I’ve been helping to organise showcasing some of the amazing songwriting talents we have in the U.K. 

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

Tough one. I’m going to give you a few! Standing on the Twickenham pitch about to sing the National Anthem - the buzz; there were BIG flames flying everywhere and so much suspense. 

My debut at the Royal Albert hall and the nervousness and excitement associated with the importance of that; especially knowing Prince Charles was in the audience. 

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

Coldplay - Parachutes

An album that I will always listen to from start to finish! Such great material on there. Reminds me of lying on my bed studying for my GCSEs with so much excitement for the future.  

Michael Jackson - Bad

Always a go-back-to. Lifts my mood whether that’s during a workout or in the car. It is full of nostalgic happiness. I remember making dance routines to it as a young girl. Amazing to hang with the producer who made this in L.A. and hear the stories behind its making. 

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Kate Bush - Hounds of Love

Another inspiration of mine. I grew up hearing this in the house. My dad was such a fan! Another one I used to mime to as I mimicked Kate’s dance moves! 

I have to add to this one of my favourite feel-good albums of the past few years - Taylor Swift’s 1989. A great Pop record. Taylor’s choices and approach to the business always interests me.  

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

I’d love to take my mum and go to Borneo and hang out with the beautiful little orangutans. So tragic what’s happening there and I’m looking to support and encourage people to protect them any way I can. I’m also obsessed with the idea of a pet cat right now but maybe bit cruel for Santa to bring her down the chimney...so she might be a part of my life in the New Year. I’m liking the name ‘Stella’. Sorry, I totally gave you two there and neither can be wrapped up and put in a stocking!

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

Wow. That’s such a tough one. There are a few! Love to support the legend Elton (John) before he retires...I have a few months. I also have this dream of performing alongside Matt Bellamy and Muse, performing an epic power ballad at one of their shows! 

My own rider usually involves a lot of fruit and lemons, flat Coke; a small amount of port for before the show and celebratory drink for after (unless I’m performing the next day). Milk for Stella (T.B.C.). 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Persevere. If the magic doesn’t happen overnight - which it likely won’t -, do not lose hope. Longevity is everything so long as you can find joy in the build. Surround yourself with a team who will support your vision, who you respect and challenge you to be your best. It can take time to find that but keep looking. Remain true to that vision, you know! 

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

These will be announced in the New Year...

 IN THIS PHOTO: Grace Carter/PHOTO CREDIT: SHOT BY PHOX

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Enjoying Grace Carter’s vibe and her track, Silence! Looking forward to hearing what’s next from her. 

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

It’s always quite difficult to switch off from things - the ‘out of office’ is never on! But, it is healthy to. I enjoy my fitness and yoga and start my day as much as possible in the gym. I also love art for a bit of escapism and inspiration. Chilling with friends is always a healer! 

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. Thank you! Imagine Dragons - Bad Liar. Always enjoy their music! 

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INTERVIEW: Saint Lo.

INTERVIEW:

Saint Lo.

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FOR today’s interview...

I have been speaking with Saint Lo. about their new track, Wounds, and what its story is. They reveal how they got together and what is coming up in 2019; what the scene is like in Canada right now and which rising artists we should watch out for.

The band talks to me about their favourite musical memory and albums; what sort of music they are drawn to and what they would like for Christmas this year – they end the interview by selecting a couple of very cool tracks.

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

It has been good! We released our video for our single, Wounds, last week and played a lovely show in Montreal this past Sunday. It’s been a good week. It's also approaching -20° in Montreal so we're keeping warm.

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

We are Saint Lo. We are an Indie Folk Pop-Rock band from Montreal. Our band members are Bashu Naimi-Roy, Marc Richard; Laura Glover, Isabella Harned - and our most recent addition is Jory Strachan.  

Wounds is the new track. Is there a story behind it?

Yes. Wounds was inspired by heartbreak/pain that came from the ending of a three-year-long relationship and the strength that came from sitting with and acknowledging pain and then turning it into art. Wounds grew from an experience that was deeply rooted in the process of healing. The lyrics were co-written by Bella and Laura and the whole band collaborated on instrumentation and arrangement. In the direction of our music video, we really wanted to capture that heartbreak does not occur in isolation; it is marked by many intersecting systems of power.

We wanted to challenge the male gaze by depicting our actor moving through suffering, sadness; playfulness, creativity and, ultimately, healing - on her own.  

How did Saint Lo. form? Is there a secret behind the band’s name?

Saint Lo formed in 2013 in the Mile End area of Montreal. We came together serendipitously through mutual connections. We noticed a certain magic when we played together and we’ve been nourishing it ever since. We were previously known as ‘St Lawrence Warehouse Company’ after an old building.

You are a Canadian band. Is there a strong and growing music scene in the country?

Our band members come from all across Canada - Nova Scotia, British Columbia and Ontario. We recently toured British Columbia and it was a beautiful experience. We think the Canadian music scene is super-strong and supportive - we have felt nothing but love in all the places we’ve played. We are also very smitten with many other Canadian musicians whom we’ve met in Montreal and on the road. Super-proud to be part of the Canadian music community, for sure.  

In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

We are a band with many individual and collective influences: among them are Fleetwood Mac, Sylvan Esso; Arcade Fire, Haley Heynderickx; Janis Joplin, Emma Ruth Rundle; Andy Shauf, Phoebe Bridgers; Godspeed You Black Emperor, Cat Power and Broken Social Scene, to name a few.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

A complete transition to sustainable energy systems! And dark chocolate is nice too.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes! We have a few surprises that will be announced in the New Year. We will also be releasing our debut L.P. in 2019. Stay tuned!

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

In a small mountain town in British Columbia, there's a siren that goes off at a certain time every night for one hundred years now. It's ear-splittingly loud, very close by the venue we were playing and nobody thought to tell us about it. It went off in the middle of our show. Thankfully, we didn't panic.

The promoter admitted afterwards that she didn't warn us because she likes to see the look of complete incomprehension on visitors’ faces. The siren also happened to be perfectly in key with the song we were playing in that moment. So, that memory and memories of being hosted by beautiful warm people all along our tour.

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

Bashu: Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven by Godspeed You! Black Emperor. I was fourteen and it was the first album I bought. I didn't know you were allowed to make music like that.

Bella: Joni Mitchell’s Blue. My earliest memory of loving a whole album was lying on the couch with my mum (I think I was nine or ten) singing the lyrics at the top of our lungs to the entirety of it. Still to this day my favourite album of all time.

Jory: Tournament of Hearts by the Constantines. I don't think any album compares to the song structures and brilliance in writing. Very formative album.  

Laura: Julia Jacklin - Don’t Let The Kids Win. I’m super-inspired by Julia Jacklin’s writing.

Marc: Joel Plaskett - Three. I learned what I know about song structures by listening to this prolific album.

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

It would be sweet to play with Mountain Man or Big Thief. Our rider would probably involve an elaborate snack plate.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Believe people when they believe in you.

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

We have some exciting announcements coming up soon! You can hear them by liking our Facebook page or following us on Instagram (at @sttt.lo.)

IN THIS PHOTO: Saint Sister/PHOTO CREDIT: Lucy Foster Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Bashu: My two favorite new and hard-to-Google bands are Someone and Pronoun and they are both very worthwhile. I've also recently been moved by Fenne Lily, IDER; ANIMA!, Saint Sister and Andy Shauf's new band Foxwarren.

Jory: I'd highly recommend keeping an eye out for housepanther and JayWood out of Winnipeg, MB in 2019. Also Montreal's yoo doo right are doing exciting things.

Bella: I’d recommend checking out Victoria BC’s, Looelle - incredible velvety harmonies.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Looelle/PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Graeme

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

We like to go to shows, spend time with our pets; be outside and host improbably-themed house parties.

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

Bashu: Thanks for having us! I'll choose Abigail by Richard Garvey

Bella: Tomberlin – Self-Help

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INTERVIEW: Banner.

INTERVIEW:

Banner.

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MY first piece of the day is a chat...

with Banner., who has been telling me about his upcoming E.P., Years in Shade, and what inspired it. He talks about his musical past and some albums that are important to him; where we can catch him gig and what the music scene is like in the Netherlands at the moment.

Banner. shares his plans for 2019 and recommends a rising act; how he spends time away from music and how he feels his new E.P. differs from his previous work – he gives some useful advice for any musicians coming through right now.

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

I'm doing very well, actually. Just added another year of age to my tally while releasing my track Years in Shade which is the title track for my upcoming E.P. and I celebrated both last weekend. Also, having my sis' birthday a day behind mine means I don't have any reason not to have fun.

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

I was born and raised in The Hague (still live there) and write 'folkish' pop songs. I just turned twenty-three. I taught myself how to play the guitar at the age of twelve and began writing songs when I was eighteen. I'm intrigued by finger-picking and use some alternate tunings. I tend to rely mostly on my guitar for new songs so, in a way, I'm making guitar pieces that more or less stand by themselves.

The E.P., Years in Shade, is out next year. What can you reveal about the songs and ideas that we will hear?

The songs that appear on the E.P happen to be a bit more personal. The tracklist consists of five songs that I put in chronological order of me going through stuff (not to sound dramatic, though, I'm fine.) Most of them have a different presence in the songs in terms of 'how' I play; meaning the tracks have a more 'upright' approach of movability and perhaps have more space for vocals. I'd have to say it would be more 'accessible' yet (could be) easier to listen to. Basically, I could say the songs are built with more of a 'Pop' construction, which enables a certain playfulness on stage while playing with band.

How do you think your latest E.P. differs from your earliest stuff?

The approach to writing the songs definitely differs from the tracks that are on the Over Blue E.P. The first one was me starting out trying to develop a ‘sound’ (if that's what you want to call it) while the second was more about experimenting and finding out if my songs were compatible with different sounds and purposes. I never intentionally started experimenting with these songs. But, also, I sort of did. Meaning that what I was doing while writing the songs was all natural and felt as the right thing to do. 

Part of the process was freeing up some space and take a step back in complexity and let my first mind guide me through the tracks that would later become the Years in Shade E.P. I kind of challenged myself to let go and leave more blanks for the band members to fill in and the whole process itself was a very learning experience. An experience that is going to be helpful for my future me as a musician.

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

The reason I developed a love for music has various reasons, but I can't remember one certain artist that dragged me into the whole songwriting thingy. The thought of music itself was just more appealing to me I think. At first, I only played guitar for a five years and went f'ing around with different genres and also a loop pedal but, after a while, I was sick of not having a product or result which I could identify myself with...until I kind of gradually got into songwriting and it immediately made an impact as I took it more seriously, which was caused because I entered a music competition just two months after writing my first songs and made it to the final. So, that was a very good start and very motivating. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I recently got back into writing new songs. So, I might have an idea of what would be part of it. Other than that; it's safe to say that I'll play some in Germany and some more back here in the Netherlands but, as a musician, I'm always looking forward to what might happen in the near future and that makes 2019 no exception with my new E.P coming up and getting more and more opportunities to play live in countries other than the Netherlands.

You are a Dutch artist. What is the scene like in the Netherlands at the moment? Is it growing in terms of its music?

It's easy for me to keep track of everyone’s movement because you're actually in not that big of a boat and you have to share it with others. But, whether Dutch music is evolving? I can't really tell. Everything that's happening nowadays in the music industry is very promising, but I don't see that directly flowing through the Dutch music industry. Tons of Dutch artists might be a bit doomed to get big but just in the Netherlands.

I also don't know whether it's a choice or a curse. You could say getting big is easier here in the lowlands because we're a relatively small country with decent resources to play music - but since it's so small you can easily play every venue in the country in a short amount of time which, in my opinion, is a bit scary when you're working on something new but the places you visit are the same every time you go on tour, that must be a bit repetitive. That's why I tend to focus not solely on Dutch grounds (Not to throw shade at Dutch venues or artists though). Either way, there are lots of colleagues here doing a great job and that doesn't have to be kept a secret. 

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

Tons of memories I have from being a musician and they are mostly all great, but one moment that I keep thinking of is playing support for Newton Faulkner and Villagers. Big crowds being super-quiet and respectful; also fun and kind people to talk to afterwards. People describing what they see and what I do in maybe a bit more technical way is a bit dull sometimes, but people explaining what it does to them and their feelings is what really makes a difference for me as a songwriter.

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

Ben Howard - I Forget Where We Were 

For me, this album was an eye-opener because it showed me how versatile a songwriter could be. Not meaning that he is capable of playing every genre, but as in how deep you could dig into your own music and by doing so having a progressive mindset. Don't know if these were his intentions but that's what I learned from it trying to be progressive songwriter. Also, he just doesn't seem to be bothered anymore by the Every Kingdom era, despite the popular demand. He's a songwriter who earned his stripes with nothing other than making music he wants to make. I really dig Noonday Dreams but I have to give I.F.W.W.W. most of the credits in terms of I approach my own music.

Nick Mulvey - Wake Up Now

Such a sweet-sounding and loving record, which is also how I would describe Nick Mulvey as a person based on seeing him a few times live and listening to his interviews. In these interviews, Nick describes the progress of recording/writing as learning and liberating since he would let go of being in control all the time. Something I felt I was doing while making my new record. One of my favourite songs of all time is on this record and it's called In Your Hands which, in my opinion, is astonishing.

Sticky Fingers - Land of Pleasure 

Been following these guys for a while now, since they released their album Caress Your Soul, and ever since they just kept delivering such pleasant and fun songs. They're so easy to listen to on so many occasions and I can come up with just few bands that keep delivering the way they do, without sacrificing their identity. Why Land of Pleasure speaks to me the most is because I remember them playing bits of that album for the first time and I absolutely lost my head back then. It was at a tiny venue located on the beach with just the most beautiful sunset and I was graduating from high-school, so you could say life was extremely good. Also wondering what some of them Australians have been drinking because there are some true gems coming from the land down under which I can't clarify just yet.

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

I'm pretty content with the stuff that I have. Clothes are always welcome but, other than, that I am satisfied with what I own and I'm hoping that it will stay like this. Just hope people are going to like the record in 2019 and maybe, if I had to make one wish, then I would wish for a job that still enables me to make loads of music. 

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

I think would like to play support for Nick Mulvey, mostly because of what kind of audience he attracts to his concerts. But, other than that, I don't have a strong desire to play support for someone because in music you never know how things are going to be. Being surprised is what kind of makes it exciting.

The rider kind of depends of the tour I would be doing but good care and comfort is actually all I need; maybe a bottle of whiskey which is already on my rider.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

There's loads of cheesy stuff to say to people who are just starting out which are true. I'm actually packed with stuff I want to mention but let's try keeping it easy and understandable. Always remember to have fun, don't expect too much and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Results shouldn't be the reason you make music. Of course there are times where you have to take protection in order to do what you love. But, still I think tons of people forget that it's mostly about the music that you make and if you do that properly the rest eventually will revolve around that.  By the way: I'm not talking as if I already made it, but still...

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

There are a few dates in Germany and a co-headline show with Matt Perriment which I really look forward to. Also been busy with another tour which I can't tell you about just yet but it's coming and maybe it's about time that I actually set foot on British grounds for a change.

25th January - Paard, The Hague

26th February – Auster-Club, Berlin

28th March - FZW, Dortmund 

5th April - Tivoli, Utrecht (with Matt Perriment) 

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Seoul

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Don't know if I'm cool enough to recommend songs that 'nobody' knows but there's this band from Canada I think who are called Seoul and they make this melancholic, ambient Pop music. For me, a sweet find and definitely worth checking out.

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

Of course I have to make sure that I don't lose my mind when making a lot of music, so I unwind just by hanging out with friends and get a beer. I have also been dancing for fourteen years now and I still enjoy doing that; keeping body and my soul in shape. Now and then I stroll through my hometown, just to clear my mind.

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

Nick Mulvey – In Your Hands

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INTERVIEW: Shookrah

INTERVIEW:

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Shookrah

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I have been speaking with Shookrah...

about their latest track, Flex, and what its story is. The guys reveal what the music scene is like in Ireland and how they got together; what is coming up for them and some of the rising artists we need to have a look at and follow.

I ask whether there are tour dates approaching and whether they get time to relax away from music; the advice they’d give to musicians coming through and the music they are all drawn to – they select an interesting track to end the interview with.

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

Emmet: Good, thanks! We’re just about to release the music video for our latest single, Flex. It was filmed on the stage of a venue here in Cork called Dali (formerly The Pavilion) and we had some super-talented Cork dancers and dance teachers involved, along with a really talented lighting engineer/visual artist, David Mathúna. It’s quite colourful, brash and sexy (just like me) which suits the song really well.

Also this week, we’ve been putting some finishing touches on the album which we’ll be bringing out next year around summertime. Just little nips and tucks; sprinkling some of that enchanted production dust on the songs.

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

Emmet: Ok. So we’ve got Senita up front singing her heart out till the break of dawn; Dan on guitar, Diarmait on a multitude of keyboards and synths; Brian on the bass and myself on drums.

How did Shookrah get together? How did you all meet?

Diarmait: It’s the bog-standard band genesis story, really. Most of us were friends from college; one of us got a gig etc. etc. etc. Brian’s the only person who was hired in on merit (read: outsider) as he’s such a stone-cold killer on the bass.

What can you reveal about the new track, Flex? What is its story?

Senita: Flex is the antidote anthem to any insecurities felt on a night out, as well as anyone killin’ your vibe. I wanted to write a song that was the equivalent to Kings of Convenience’s I’d Rather Dance with You (song) except more obnoxious and sassy. There are just some songs that do that to me. I just can’t mess with anyone trying to chat with me while Formation is playing for instance. I wanted to convey that in a song and invite people to feel the same about this particular song.

In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

Diarmait: Exceptionally funky ones, mainly. Also, anyone who keeps it real in fairness. A small sample list: Roy Ayers, Anderson .Paak; Erykah Badu, Milo; White Boiz and N.W.A.

You are based out of Ireland. What is the scene like where you are?

Diarmait: Oh, it’s very Irish. I suppose it’s reasonably small and it’s cosy - and most people know each other, which is nice. Hip-Hop/R&B-type music seems to be coming into its own a bit here too which is cool in fairness.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Dan: I’m gonna answer for everyone based on their hairstyles...

Senita: A selection of outrageous trousers and pungent teas; Emmet: Limited Edition Home Alone version of Hungry Hungry Hippos; Dunlea: Volvo cufflinks; Diarmait: haircut; Dan: Neighbour’s WiFi code

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Diarmait: The release of our first album! Also, some touring.

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

Diarmait: We were playing a 3 A.M. festival gig before where the power went out halfway through. Major L.O.L.s as you can imagine!

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

Diarmait: I would have to say Bob Marley - The Gold Collection: 40 Classic Performances as I’ve had it for the last fifteen years since I was twelve.

Senita: I hate having to pick...BUT IF I MUST, I would say that Janelle Monáe’s The ArchAndroid was a big moment for me in my musical journey. I would listen to it walking country roads in South Kerry and was completely blown out of my mind as to the fact that such a strong concept album could still hold strong in that day and age. I was so struck by the Wondaland Collective’s ethos, artistic integrity and intellect.

The fact that it could be backed by Big Boi and P Diddy and take you on such a crazy, seemingly non-commercial journey opened my mind to the possibility of really performing and playing around with it and giving people more than a hook...but a genuine story and experience to latch on to.

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

Emmet: Maybe D’Angelo...and that’s just the rider! Haha. Just kidding.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Diarmait: In the words of James Brown: “Make it funky, make it funky”.

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

Diarmait: I’m afraid I can’t reveal any sensitive information at this juncture but, suffice to say, we have plans for Ireland and the U.K. next year that hopefully won’t be affected by Brexit! (Seriously).

 IN THIS PHOTO: Black Pope

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Diarmait: Junior Brother - Ireland’s next big thing. Real talk.

Senita: Black Pope, Fehdah; Charlotte Dos Santos, Kari Faux; JyellowL and NUXSENSE.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Charlotte Dos Santos

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

Diarmait: We’re also a quite successful five-a-side football team, if I say so myself. So, whenever things get a bit too stressful, we’ll usually run a few passing drills or even just take it easy with a good old game of Nods and Volleys.

Senita: I think my chill time gets eaten up with other projects that I’d like to get involved in. I perform with producers; do a bit of D.J.ing myself and do things like dance classes and going to the theatre. I’m starting a podcast called Points of Intersection in the New Year about Ireland and intersectionality, which will broadcast on Dublin Digital Radio. I’m listening to a lot of podcasts and doing some prep for that as a chill thing.

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).

Diarmait: Johnny “Guitar” Watson - Telephone Bill

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INTERVIEW: Jacko Hooper

INTERVIEW:

Jacko Hooper

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THE brilliant Jacko Hooper...

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has been telling me about his new single, Trust in Me Always, and what its history is. I ask whether there is more coming along and which albums are important to him – Hooper suggests some rising artists that are worth a bit of time and energy.

The songwriter talks about his E.P., Together We’re Lost, and why he took a slight break from music; which artist he’d support on tour if he could and whether there are gigs approaching – Hooper selects a great new track to end the interview with.

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

All good, thank you. It's a strange time after releasing a record where, all of a sudden, you have a bit more free space in your brain after all the hard work is over. But, yes, good.

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

My name is Jacko Hooper. I write and perform songs with guitar, keys and vocals. I draw influence from the things around me. I find it hard to write songs that aren't about personal experience.

Trust in Me Always is your new single. Is there a story behind the track?

The song is a conversation between your automatic thinking and your logical thinking. It's the voice in your head when it's trying to convince you that you are right to be fearful of the irrational and it keeping you 'under its spell'.

It is from the E.P., Together We’re Lost. I believe it was bedroom-recorded after a slight break from music. What was the reason behind the gap and returning with this E.P.?!

I needed to take a little break and get back in the right mindset in how to release music. I wanted to put something out that I was proud of and felt represented me at this time - and I knew the only way I was going to achieve that is if I focused more on writing and less on performing. Demoing songs and finding the right balance of production and intimacy was important and I wanted to feel like I found that sound correctly with this record.

Who are the artists that inspired you growing up? Did you grow up around a lot of different music?

Funnily enough, I didn't grow up around much music at all. I don't come from a musical background. I always used to listen to the radio when I was really young and used to write poems. I discovered an album in Asda called The Album and it had loads of bands on it that I never knew existed, i.e. the ones that weren't on the local commercial radio station. I heard distortion for the first time with bands like The Vines and Muse and the dramatic and emotive nature of the music led me to wanting to put these words I’d scribbled down to melody.

As I grew up, I fell in love with artists such as Jeff Buckley, Bowie; Glen Hansard and Damien Rice and I think that's when I started to venture towards a more acoustic sound.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I have some collaborative projects that I’m really looking forward to release; working with some really inspiring musical friends of mine on some different releases, including Folklore Vol.2, which is a label I set up. Tour plans are in the works too. I think things will start becoming public knowledge more in the spring time.

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

I was invited to support James Blunt at the Brighton Centre (which is my hometown) a few years ago. There were a few venues growing up as a kid that I knew I always wanted to try and play and the Brighton Centre didn't even come into my mind. To walk out in front of 5,000 people, including friends and family, was one of the most surreal and accomplished feelings I’ve ever had in my life. The songs I was singing I were songs I wasn't sure anyone would ever hear, let alone that many at one time.

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

Music is all I really do with my life. I put on shows; I release records, my own and other peoples. I go to gigs; I write music. I struggle to find time for anything else in honesty. I'm a workaholic, so I like it that way. It's my friends and family that have to hear me talking about it all the time - so probably more work for them than me.

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

So hard to pick...

The album that made me want to pick up a guitar would probably be Showbiz by Muse. It was the first proper album I had really digested and I remember not being able to understand how he was creating the guitar sounds...so that's what my gut goes with.

After that, it'd probably be Trouble by Ray LaMontagne. To me, it's just a flawless record; a songwriter at the peak of his powers. Every song is so inspiring. It takes me somewhere else as a listener and makes me want to write songs as an artist.

I'll pick a more recent album for my third choice. I love Post Tropical by James Vincent McMorrow. I think the production on this record coupled by his painfully accurate falsetto creates an atmosphere totally unique. It feels like the old album style of listening from start to finish has died out somewhat in recent years. Yet, with this record, it flows like a story and needs to be enjoyed as a whole piece. I admire that hugely.

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

At this point, just some rest. I want nothing for Christmas. Literally, just nothing.

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

I think it'd have to be Glen Hansard. I remember watching a live version of him performing Say It to Me Now and it was a life-changing moment. It gave me genuine chills; to see one person emit such emotion in a performance with so little accompaniment...something clicked and I knew that was how I wanted to get my story across. It felt so honest. No bulls*it; just a guy with a guitar who wasn't holding back on a single word or melody. He lives every bit of it.

The rider would have to be a crate of Jameson's really, wouldn't it? Given the company...

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

Not yet. As I say, I think it'll be spring when things are getting back into shape.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Love what you do. Be honest with your writing. We all take huge inspiration and influence from people, but your favourite artist already exists: the world doesn't need another one. Be you. It's so much more interesting.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Bess Atwell/PHOTO CREDIT: @d.haughian

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m lucky to have a lot of very talented friends making some of my favourite music. I would highly recommend Bess Atwell, The Hungry Mothers; Paper Hawk - and today I found a singer called Chloe Foy who I’m thoroughly enjoying, My friend George Ogilvie recently brought out an E.P. too and that's been playing fairly consistently I must admit.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Chloe Foy

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

No.

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).

Oooo. In that case. I'd recommend Grace by Bess Atwell. Stunning melodies and lyrics in particular in this one.

Thank you!

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INTERVIEW: Luca Schreiner

INTERVIEW:

Luca Schreiner

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I have been chatting with Luca Schreiner...

about his latest track, Over You, and what its story is. I ask the Electronic artist/producers what comes next and what it has been like working with some of music’s biggest names – he reveals how he got into music and what advice approaching musicians should take to heart.

Schreiner reveals an approaching musician to watch and tells me whether there are gigs coming next year; what Christmas present he wants this year and whether he gets time to chill away from music – he selects a great song to end the interview with.

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

Hey, guys. I’m super-well! I’ve had an amazing week. I played my first ever show in Bahrain and just got back home. 

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

Sure. I’m Luca Schreiner; a twenty-four-year old D.J. and producer from Germany. I’m signed with Ultra Music and released official remixes for artists such as James Arthur, Alessia Cara; Clean Bandit and many more.

 

Over You is your new track. Is there an inspiration behind it?

I’ve written Over You together with some amazing guys, including Neil Ormandy, who is one of the best songwriters of right now. I think the track perfectly shows my current style, which is a crossover between Dance and Pop elements.  

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

Definitely! I’m constantly working on new original music as well as new remixes for some huge artists which hopefully get released soon!

When did you get into music? Were there particular artists you looked up to?

I got into music when I was sixteen-years-old. I remember watching videos of Tiesto performing in front of thousands of people! That was really inspiring me to start working on my own music and explore the whole electronic music industry!

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You have remixed for some big artists. Which has been your favourite collaboration?

I loved working with James Arthur and his team. They were all super-nice and his voice is just outstanding! My remix of his track Say You Wont Let Go is still my most successful remix that I worked on.

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

Playing at Marquee in New York was definitely one of my favorite memories! I opened for 4B that night, who is playing pretty different compared to what I’m playing; but the people were really into it and just enjoyed every track that I played.  

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

Music is super-important to me! I grew up in a family were music always played a big role. My dad owns a music distribution that also introduced me to the particular genre of Electronic music.

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

If I could ask for a non-material present/gift, I think I would choose health for me and my family. No matter how talented you are in music, if you don’t feel good in your body or have health issues then you can enjoy life.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you’ve just got started, don’t stress yourself. Start exploring and see what genre and what style fits the best for you. I always experimented at the beginning of my career and still try to be as creative with trying different styles in the studio every now and then to just get inspired.

I think, as soon as you have found the right style, you just have to go for it and have fun producing new music. Labels will automatically reach out to you once your sound is right so don’t worry.  

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

Yes. I’ve already got some shows confirmed for next year, which I’ll announce soon!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: James Carter

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I just really love what James Carter (from the U.K.) does! He’s still kind of underrated for all the amazing stuff he’s releasing! So, definitely check him out!

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

Yes. I always try to take time to chill and get inspired again! I think surrounding yourself with people that understand what you do and help you get inspired and chilled is super-important to be able to work on new music again.

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 love the new Chainsmokers song, Beach House. So, I would choose this one. Absolutely love the melody of the main part and their songwriting in this one

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INTERVIEW: Katey Brooks

INTERVIEW:

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Katey Brooks

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THE awesome Katey Brooks...

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has been telling me about her latest single, In Your Arms, and what its story is. I ask what she has planned next year and whether we will see more from her; which albums are most important and some rising artists we should follow and investigate.

Brooks tells me about a bittersweet musical memory and where we can catch her play; who she would support on tour if she had the chance and what advice she would offer artists emerging – she selects a great track to end the interview with.

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

Hi! I'm good, thanks. How are you? My week has been really wonderful thanks...and busy!

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

I'm a singer-songwriter/producer originally from Bristol (U.K.) living in London. I've been writing, releasing and touring music for over a decade now and have been fortunate enough to see many parts of the world because of it. My back catalogue spans a variety of genres but my current vibe is Indie/Folk-Pop with hints of Gospel and Soul. Is that enough of an intro? I'm a bit awkward; can you tell? (Smiles).

In Your Arms is your new single. What is the story behind it?

I went through a very painful breakup over the summer. I parted with the woman I loved very dearly and one day I just picked up my guitar and decided to tell her how I felt, in song. I had always felt like she never quite believed me when I told her I loved her and this was my way of really saying it. I'm happy it came out this way because I think, or at least hope, there's something in the lyrics we can all relate to - that pure, sweet, unconditional love for someone.

Will there be more material coming along? How far along are you looking?

There absolutely will. I'm just finishing the production on the second single - which will be out in late-January - followed by third and then the album in the spring! In between my original music, I'm also going to be sharing some covers of my favourite songs so watch this space (smiles).

In terms of artists; who do you count as idols?

Neil Young, Joni Mitchell; Annie Lennox, Tracy Chapman; Otis Redding, Jeff Buckley and John Martyn...god, the list is endless!

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes. Gentle ones. I was on the road relentlessly for a few years until this time last year and, as amazing as that was, that's not how I want to do things these days. I've discovered I'm actually more of a home-bird than I ever wanted to admit. So, I'll be releasing a lot of music (including my album Hearing Voices in the spring) and playing some special concerts in venues I love. Past that, we shall see!

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

Ooh, there are a few. Singing at the Bethlehem Live festival in Palestine and London 2012 are up there, but I'm going to say all the way back in 2007 at the Bordeaux Fête le Fleuve. I was a youngster on the main stage both opening and closing this beautiful festival. It was both a very exciting and extremely painful moment for me. My mum had literally passed away two days before but I had promised her I would go and play the festival. 

As hard as it was, I wanted to keep that promise. I thought about her and mentally dedicated it to her as I sung my song You Will Be Free. It was a very powerful moment and, to be honest, I felt her presence. I'll never forget that.

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life? 

As both the receiver and the creator, it's everything. It's literally saved my life at certain times. It gives meaning when there is none; it makes sense when there is none and it gives joy without ever wanting anything in return. Music is just beyond words amazing, isn't it?!

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

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac

Just because it's perfection.

Tracy Chapman – Tracy Chapman

That record inspired me to write and sing.

Blue by Joni Mitchell

My friend Patrick Duff mentored me a little when I was younger and he recommended I listen for my development. Exquisite album which definitely influenced the way I sang at the time.

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

Oh, that would be telling...it's quite soppy. Can I keep you posted? (Winks).

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

It would be someone like Matt Corby because then I could really enjoy his set afterwards. I adore his voice/music and his presence on stage. 

My rider is always pretty simple: just a nice bottle of Malbec, decent veggie food and somewhere private, quiet and comfy to chill out before and after I play. Anything more than that is a bonus but to be honest wouldn't be on my mind before I play.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just make music you love, work hard and be gracious. Look after and respect yourself. The rest is up to the gods.  

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

There are shows to be announced but, in the meantime, I have two special shows coming up in these lovely venues:

Friday, 1st Feb at Landmark Arts Centre - London

Saturday, 2nd Feb at Arnos Vale – Bristol

Tickets are available from my website.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Ash Radford

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ash Radford. Beautiful music, beautiful man. I think he's going to do big things in 2019. Fraser Anderson for all the same reasons. His voice is gold.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Fraser Anderson

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

My answer to that question used to always be ‘no’. Haha.  But, nowadays, I'm trying to keep the balance. I like to just hang out with friends and family eating nice food and having the odd glass of wine or two. I love movies and have been known to indulge in many Netflix binge sessions. I'm trying to get back into sports too as I know how much my mental-health thrives from it. Climbing is at the forefront of my mind at the moment. I just need to find the time!

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).

Oh, thanks! Let's go with Fraser Anderson - Only a Boy. It's my favourite of his and features the beautiful bass playing of Danny Thompson (John Martyn, Nick Drake)

Nice chatting to you (Smiles).

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Follow Katey Brooks

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INTERVIEW: Big Wild

INTERVIEW:

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Big Wild

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AMERICAN producer Big Wild...

has been telling me about his new single, Heaven, and its story. I was eager to know about the upcoming album, Superdream, and what sort of themes inspired it; the kind of music he grew up around the albums he loves the most.

Big Wild talks about his plans and who he’d like to support on the road; a rising artist we should all look out for and whether there are any tour dates in the diary – he ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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Hi, Big Wild. How are you? How has your week been?

I’m doing well! This week has been busy. Just finished two co-headline shows at Bill Graham in San Francisco and WaMu Theater in Seattle. Now, I can finally decompress a little bit.

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

My music is fairly diverse but often falls into Electronic, Indie and Dance genres. I produce, sing and write it myself so my songs are very much a representation of me.

Heaven is your latest track. Is there a story behind it?

Heaven was inspired by a photograph I found online of rain in the ocean with a man floating in the centre with the biggest grin. It seemed as if this person was in total bliss. I wanted to write a song capturing that feeling; of witnessing something so special, euphoric or breathtaking that it feels like ‘Heaven’.

Your album, Superdream, is out in February. What sort of themes inspired the songs?

Superdream covers a variety of topics that are all rooted in my own personal experiences. Existentialism, falling in love and moving across country are some of the things I sing about. The album is largely a reflection of moments in my life.

You have received support from the Electronic duo ODESZA. How important is that support and faith?

Their support early on was really helpful in getting exposure, understanding the music industry better and putting together a live show. Their role in my career was invaluable.

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

I first got into music by producing hip hop instrumentals. Artists like Dr. Dre, Pharrel, and Timbaland were my favourites and inspired me to have my own unique sound. Since then, my inspirations have evolved a lot but Hip-Hop producers formed my foundation for understanding and producing music.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Lots of plans. Superdream drops February 1st; I embark on a headline tour in March and then there are lots of shows planned throughout the summer and the rest of the year. I’m also working on some live sessions and stripped back versions of my new songs so people can hear them in a different light and understand my voice a little better.

2019 is going to be a busy year.

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

Co-headlining Red Rocks. Such a beautiful venue and a perfect night. Definitely a life highlight.

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

Dr. Dre - 2001

Tame Impala - Currents

Gorillaz - Demon Days

All three are super unique especially in terms of production. Finding your own production and songwriting style is such an amazing form of self-expression and I feel these albums embody that.

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

A Neumann U 67 microphone. That’s what I used on this record and I love the way it captured my voice. It isn’t cheap though. Haha.

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

I would want to go on tour with Paul McCartney. Give me a fridge full of kombucha and I’m all set.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Before anything else, focus on having a unique style and sound that is true to who you are. The more my career progresses, the more I realize how the ultimate artistic goal is to create art that is a perfect representation of yourself, vulnerabilities and everything. Establish this as your goal and then build your business and success around it.

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

I’ll be at Decadence in Denver on N.Y.E. and then Holy Ship! in January. After that, I’ll be working on the set for Superdream and then starting the Superdream tour for pretty much all March. I’m hoping to begin playing the new set overseas in 2019 as well...

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve recently found this artist named Louis Cole. His YouTube videos are hyper-creative and his music is really good too.

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

Music is both my main source of stress and relaxation, ironically. When I’m truly unwinding though I like to hike and explore nature a bit.

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).

Only You - Theophilus London (ft. Tame Impala)

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Follow Big Wild

INTERVIEW: Johanna Glaza

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Willie Nash

Johanna Glaza

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THANKS to Johanna Glaza...

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PHOTO CREDIT: Willie Nash

for talking about her epic new single, Albion, and the E.P. of the same name (out tomorrow); what is coming up next year and how the Lithuanian-born, London-based artist mixes those two rather different lands – Glaza highlights a rising musician that we should have a look at.

I ask whether there are tour dates coming and whether she has a favourite music memory; the albums that are most important in her life and who she’d support on tour given the chance – she ends the interview with a great track selection.

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

I’m good, thanks. I’ve been trying to spend more time off line this week and it feels wonderful.

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

I’m an independent, London-based artist, writing long Baroque-Folk songs with an Avant-Garde twist.

Albion is your latest track. Can you reveal the inspiration behind the song?

I intended to compose a song using William Blake’s words just for fun for a friend of mine but ended up writing an eight-minute piece which took me months to complete. The dramatic events of the poem perfectly mirrored my own heart at the time. 

It is from the E.P. of the same name. What sort of themes and ideas influenced the music?

The desire to live and to be alive. I was coming out of grieving for my both parents whom I lost one after the other.

You are from Lithuania but based in London. Is it easy to balance the two worlds?

They merged naturally into one strange world for me. I need both the energy of metropolis and the complete solitude in the wild. The only difficulty is trying to figure out where am I in the first seconds after waking up.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Willie Nash

In terms of artists; who do you count as idols?

They die in me from time to time. At this moment, I’m still looking for the new one. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I fear the word ‘plan’ more than anything. I just hope to keep doing what I’m doing.

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

The shooting of the video for Albion felt like being in a different world. I’d love to relive it.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rachel Poulton

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

Good question: I never thought about it. Music has always been there in my life. Like oxygen - I didn’t question it. It's my own world I can escape to any time.

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

Björk – Debut

For breaking all the boundaries I knew at the time.

Joni Mitchell – Blue

For being so naked.

Roy Harper – Stormcock

For teaching me that a song is not just a verse-chorus thing.

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

One way ticket to India? Don’t ask me why (smiles).

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PHOTO CREDIT: Rachel Poulton

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

I’d love to support Julianna Barwick for the show in Iceland and would ask them to build us a church made of ice. It would melt as we sung. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stay away from perfection.

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

Come and say ‘hi’ to The Finsbury, London on Jan 21. More dates to be announced on my social media soon.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Vesper Wood

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Vesper Wood is wonderful. 

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

Fetching the water from a well with a bucket for my countryside hut keeps me grounded. 

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 Linda Perhacs – Parallelograms

Thank you for your lovely questions and your support. Have a great week.

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Follow Johanna Glaza

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INTERVIEW: Jim Junior

INTERVIEW:

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Jim Junior

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THE excellent Jim Junior...

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has been telling me about his latest single, Is It the Right Time, and its background. I ask him what is coming next and what music means to him – he selects a few albums that means a lot and recommends some rising artists worth checking out.

Jim Junior discusses his musical background and looks ahead to 2019; gaining a solid reputation in his hometown and what advice he would give to artists coming through – he selects a great song to end the interview with.

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

Creatively fulfilling and exciting as I have discovered a new tonic wine that stimulates my faculties in the studio and makes me feel great.

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

I go by Jim Junior. I am a singer-songwriter and producer and multi-instrumentalist from Toronto, Canada. I have a background that includes House music, Jazz; Country and Hip-Hop. I mostly produce and write my material and people tell me they like it.

 

Is It the Right Time is your new track. Can you reveal the story behind it?

Yes, I can. I wrote it about two years ago in Toronto. I was riding the Subway (your tube) home from my then-day job and had this chord progression spinning around in my head. At some point, the lyric hit me and I arrived home at around 2 A.M. I fired up my computer and started putting it together.

The lyrics just happened. I was feeling intoxicated and excited but also nervous about romantic aspects of my life, not knowing where to turn but also feeling a deep sense of inevitability. I think it’s just that feeling of limbo I was trying to capture in the song.

You are signed to LAB Records. What was the reason behind that move? What is life like under the label?

They offered me the best deal. It’s like having a cool uncle with money who also knows people at Spotify.

Will there be more material coming next year?

Yes, there will. We are potentially seeing some remix type stuff in the short-term; some collaborations in the spring and likely another body of tunes from juste moi. Expect things to get wilder musically...

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Can you remember when you knew music was the path for you? Did something trigger that?

Not really; it was so early in my life that I just always wanted to be playing and singing. I think around thirteen was when I consciously conceived of it as a job - but it was always like water for me.

Is it true you are known in your Canadian hometown for illegal parties?! Did that, alongside your D.J. skills, help spur you to where you are now?

Well. I am known for a lot of things in my hometown. My circle of friends got to putting on events in D.I.Y. spaces starting around 2010 where we sold drinks and provided music. My project kind of blossomed out of that as I got into writing this brand of R&B that I though could sit alongside the House and Hip-Hop that was getting spun. I was usually just the warm up D.J. and mostly played older Disco and Funk records but, when sh*t got going, other guys would spin and I would toast (emcee) on top of the House records, improvising lyrics and even writing whole tunes on the spot sometimes.

So, I learned how to work a club crowd, got more into Dance music - to which I was somewhat new - and my sound changed. I started using more drum machines and synths, changing how I approached my melodies etc. It was a blast.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Doing some dates in Canada in the winter. Hoping to put together a full batch of songs for the spring and travelling as much as I can.  

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

No, to be honest. Haha. It’s all been a joyous whirlwind.

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

I don't really exist comfortably without it. It's the centre of my being and the medium in which I am my most natural self.

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

A Love Supreme - John Coltrane

When I was about twelve-years-old, I would put it on every night before bed and find the spot where I had fallen asleep and start from there in the morning. I did this for about three months I think. It was such a pure and brilliant compromise between raw improvisation and composition that it captivated me over and over.

This Year's Model - Elvis Costello and the Attractions

Learned to play bass from this guy.

Lifestylez ov da Poor & Dangerous - Big L

The Hip-Hop record that completely took me in and turned my head out.

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

Probably for Canada to recognize its continued abuse and neglect of its native population and deal with it in more than a cursory way.

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

I would love to support any artist with a fan base with whom my stuff would resonate. I don’t know who that is but my rider would include rum, ginger beer and chicken.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

In terms of the music itself, figure out what makes you shine as an individual and develop that. There are a lot of talented people doing what someone else does, just not quite as well. Don’t fall into that trap. As far as the industry is concerned, I am still figuring it out - ask somebody with real success.

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

I am planning a few dates in Canada in the winter but it’s pending. I expect to be playing in impromptu circumstances and only if the money is right. Otherwise, I am at Handlebar in Toronto in January. Check IG.

How important is it getting onto the stage and delivering music to the people?

It’s the only way musicians can really make a living now, so that’s the main thing. I hope we start to see more flow from streaming as we figure out how the whole Internet thing will continue to work; but for now we gotta hit the stage. I have a performance background and I love it the same as I love writing and recording...so it’s a big part of my thing. I think a lot of artists today are lacking in live chops and, considering the circumstances I’ve described, that seems kind of backwards.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Birthday Boy/PHOTO CREDIT: @mayafuhr

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Birthday Boy and Harrison out of Toronto make some of the cooler Hybrid music with a real back-beat out there. Also from Toronto are Casey MQ and Myst Milano. I love NAO from the U.K.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Casey MQ/PHOTO CREDIT: Haley V. Parker

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

I force myself to hang out without a recording setup sometimes, yeah. I love to cook and did it for many years as a day job, so I’m pretty decent. Otherwise, I love watching sports and talking politics, history and philosophy.

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).

Let’s put on SAINT off of Birthday Boy’s latest E.P. - cause he probably won’t ask anyone to play it…

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Follow Jim Junior

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INTERVIEW: The Mojo Cams

INTERVIEW:

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The Mojo Cams

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IT has been interesting speaking with Steve Bull...

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about his musical moniker, The Mojo Cams, and how that came to be. He talks about his David Bowie-inspired project, Nebula Tuesday, and the latest song from it, These Are the Days – he reveals a few albums that are especially important to him.

I ask Bull about combining literature and music together and whether there is a natural connection; what he has planned coming up and what his favourite musical memory is – he ends the interview by selecting a great Kate Bush song.

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

I’m doing okay, thanks. How are you? I’ve been getting out and about and enjoying the early autumn mornings the last week or so. The amazing colours of the trees and the falling leaves seem to make me want to reminisce.. I’m hoping it will inspire me to write something.

It’s been such a very busy time with non-music stuff recently so it’s really nice to take time out and have a chat with your good self about creative matters!

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

I am a songwriter and composer with a keen interest in digital art. I love to get artists together to develop new songs and recordings. I like to produce music via collaborations and conceptual ideas. The Mojo Cams is my vehicle for delivering this music.

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Can you talk about Nebula Tuesday and what it is about? When did the idea come to you?

The idea came to me shortly after David Bowie died. Nebular Tuesday is essentially about how we treat the ‘others’ in life: how we view strangers and outsiders who don’t see the world the same. It is also about injustice and truth.

In the initial stages, I was developing an idea for a concept album. I was also looking to reflect the changes in the cultural and political climate. It started off and remains, thematically dark. I wanted to speak about the blighted concept of ‘fact’; the rise of the populist right and xenophobia. Nebular has grown its own arms and legs now. It’s a fully-scripted musical story and I’m not exactly sure how that happened.

I’ve put some tunes in there, though. It’s not all heavy…

The first track, These Are the Days, sets the story. Were you inspired by particular films or books regarding the story arc?!

Absolutely. I was thinking about The Wicker Man and all its weirdness and spooky isolation. The setting and the feel were a definite colouring of my vision for Nebular. I also had Straw Dogs (the original) in mind - to express the terror of the outsider in the story.

Might we see another project like Nebula Tuesday in the coming months/years?

I’m in talks to produce a musical dramatic work concerning the Scottish bard Robert Burns just now. I’m also working on the songs of a new musical that I hope to unveil early next year. Don’t want to say too much in case I jinx it....

Do you feel there is a natural link between music and literature - and should more musicians create form a literary viewpoint?

Well. There is a link, in the fact that songs are essentially literal due to the words and concepts of lyrics. Great lyrics often set dramatic scenes, tells stories and explore themes in a very concise and clever way. Writing Nebular; I found that matching a lyric to a dramatic scene and storyline can be somewhat limiting and, conversely, a focus for ideas.

I had never really tried writing songs in this way before. The lyrics had to be described through the eyes of the characters in the story and confined by their motivation and situations. This forced me into a new way of developing words.

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Should more musicians explore this? Well, I quickly realised that it was definitely something I should have been doing all along. It was creatively liberating in the sense that I could say things through a character that I could never say personally. Artists who write for other people must experience something similar.

Overall though, I feel that music is most relevant when it explores an empathic and emotional narrative. When the listener is captured, immersed and taken on an internal journey then I suppose they are experiencing music in its purest form. Whatever device a songwriter or composer uses to accomplish this is absolutely fine by me. It is not an easy thing to do. In songs, stories and themes will always play a part.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I am looking at taking Nebular towards a full stage/screen production. I also have other projects on the go that promise to take up all of my time.

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

I’ve met loads of famous people. Muse, U2. Very cool experiences. I’ve had a write up in The Big Issue. Geri Halliwell was on the next page. A big highlight was supporting The Levellers and having Eddie Reader’s son ask for an autograph!

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

Guns N’ Roses – Appetite for Destruction

For the sound of the guitars - and it sounds like they recorded it all last week.

Portishead – Dummy

For the spookiness the Mellotron, the vocal and the otherworldliness of it. It’s a seminal album that’s for sure.

Kate Bush – Hounds of Love

Because it’s Her Majesty Kate and that is enough. Right?

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

I would absolutely LOVE a two-in-one Neumann 24x4 analogue summing mixer by Vintage Maker. Sorry...you’re none the wiser? Gearhead geek alert! Do you think they will send me one now that I have mentioned them in your interview? In time for Christmas?

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

I would love to support Noel Gallagher. The rider would be beers and a copy of The Beatles Anthology.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If everyone is running into the six yard box, head for the wing. Someone might pass you the ball.

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

There may be some conventional gigs in 2019 but, right now, I’m organising a rehearsed reading of Nebular Tuesday in February.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: SIAN

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I love the vocal group SIAN

Niteworks (ft. Sian) - Air Fàir an Là:

‘Air fàir an là’ means ‘At dawn of day’. It’s a traditional Gaelic ‘waulking song’ and the melody is utterly gorgeous. One of the Sian singers, Ceitlin LR Smith, sings in English on Nebular.

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

Digital painting keeps me off the streets. Sometimes.

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 Experiment IV by Kate Bush. Nigel Kennedy’s in it you know and I can play violin...so there...

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Follow The Mojo Cams

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INTERVIEW: Pale Green Things

INTERVIEW:

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Pale Green Things

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I have been chatting with Pale Green Things...

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about the new single, Fairy Lights in Albert Square, and what its tale is. He (Jack) tells me about upcoming plans and the importance of music in his life; which artists and records are inspiring him and what advice approaching artists should take to heart.

I ask whether there is any Christmas present he wants and has not asked for; if he gets time to unwind away from music and what the scene is like in Manchester right now – he selects an awesome song to end the interview with.

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

Hi. I’m good, thanks. It’s been busy with releasing Fairy Lights in Albert Square on Friday.

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

My name’s Jack, but I go by the name ‘Pale Green Things’. I play Alt-Indie with a slight Folk influence. I’ve been recording music since I was a kid so I write and play everything myself.

Fairy Lights in Albert Square is your latest track. Is there a story behind it?

Like a lot of places, we get the Christmas markets taking over the city centre in December, here in Manchester. The song is about feeling low, whilst being in the centre of the forced Christmas-ness. In winter, you get the weird feeling when it’s dark, cold and being surrounded by all the fairytale-style stalls and lights; I wanted the song to be dark and ambient to capture that.

How did Pale Green Things start? Is there a reason behind the moniker?

The reason is to copy my heroes and influences; The Mountain Goats, Bright Eyes; Iron and Wine, The Eels. Pale Green Things is a song by The Mountain Goats. I love the song and I just thought it was a good name that people could create their own imagery for.

Is there going to be more material next year?

Yep. Going to be a busy year coming up. I have an E.P. out early next year, plus I’m always releasing fan club-only E.P.s.

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Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

The first band I got obsessed by when I was a kid was the Manic Street Preachers. The Holy Bible is still one of my all-time favourite albums. After that, it was Belle and Sebastian, Conor Oberst; The Mountain Goats and The National. The list could go on but those are the ones that really influenced my writing.

What is the scene like in Manchester like right now?

Really good, actually. There’s loads of great venues here of all sizes. It feels like more bands are starting to get noticed here also, but Manchester will always have a bit of an underground feel to it which I love!

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I’ve got the E.P. to release and an album to work on. I’ll create more plans to play live once the E.P. is ready to go. I’m looking forward to playing the new songs live!

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

I’ve had lots but, recently, it was pretty cool when Francis from Teenage Fan Club turned up to the studio to play piano on a track from my old E.P. I love playing my Alt-Indie songs live as that’s where my heart is musically, but nothing quite beats when you first start gigging as a teenager and just go and tear the place apart. Haha!

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

Way too hard! But, top-three right at this moment I’ll say…

The Mountain Goats – Tallahassee; Belle and Sebastian - If You’re Feeling Sinister and Conor Oberst and The Mystic Valley Band - One of My Kind. I’m always searching for music that paints a picture of life as I see and feel it and those albums capture something.

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

Haha. The only thing I’ve asked for is a new capo which is a bit depressing. It always feels weird asking for things when you just wanna record and play music!

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

Can’t do it. Haha. It’s Conor Oberst or John Darnielle (The Mountain Goats). So, I guess my rider would be a game of Connect 4 and the winner gets to headline the show - and I can chill back stage with the other.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just make the music you wanna make because, at the end, that’s what you’re left with.

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

I need to sort out my live shows for 2019 but there will be plenty of U.K. shows.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a guy called John Dahli from the North West that’s making some awesome music. Defo recommend his new E.P., Perfect Heart.

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

Nope. Not really! I work as a guitar teacher, and then play music the rest of the time. I live near Old Trafford so I get to the football when I can. When I need a break, I watch an episode of People Just Do Nothing. I am loving that show at the minute.

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).

One of My Kind - Conor Oberst and the Mystic Valley Band

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Follow Pale Green Things

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INTERVIEW: Runrummer

INTERVIEW:

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Runrummer

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THE terrific Runrummer has been telling me about...

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her awesome new E.P., Soul Wrinkles, and its inspirations; whether she has a favourite cut from the collection and what comes next for her – she selects a few albums that are very important and explains the reasons why.

I ask what sort of music she grew up around and who she’d support on the road if she could; which approach musician we need to check out and what advice she would offer to artists coming through – Runrummer picks a great song to end things on.

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

Hey, Sam! My week is going very well thank you. Busy but good. Just played a headline show at the Amersham Arms and gearing up for a performance at Stockwell Studios with students from the University of Greenwich on 12th December. I’m also back in the studio working on new tunes and remixes - exciting times!

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

My real name name is Livi Morris. I’m twenty-four-years-old and I’m an emerging Alt-Pop singer, songwriter and producer. Currently based in East London, although I grew up in a town called Bromsgrove just on the outskirts of Birmingham. Prior to embarking on my first solo adventure as an independent artist, I cut my teeth writing lyrics for EDM heavyweights like Showtek and The Chainsmokers.

Soul Wrinkles is your new E.P. What sort of themes and stories inspired the music?

The music is all very personal to me. A lot of it confronts struggles I’ve had with sexuality, gender identity; mental-health and other juicy emotional stuff. Eyes, for example, tries to tap into the feeling of being trapped by your own gender. This is something I really struggled with when I was younger. The isolation you feel and the road you have to travel down in order to find acceptance within yourself vs. others expectations.

Do you have a favourite cut from the pack? Is there a personal highlighted?

Penny Drop definitely is my personal favourite at the moment. I just really love the feeling of it. It follows the story of two lovers who realise their relationship is over - but at different points and in their own separate ways - that ‘penny drop moment’ where suddenly everything makes sense and become more clear. The coffee shop narrative is also an interesting one.

Everyone has their own place of escapism and the coffee shop tries to be symbolic of that. A place to run away and find calm on a dark, rainy evening when you feel like all hope is lost. The concept I had in my mind was very much inspired by Edward Hopper’s 1942 painting Nighthawks.

What sort of music did you grow up around? How important were your parents’ tastes regarding your music?

I grew up in a very musical household. Neither my mum or dad could play an instrument but they were always blasting the good stuff - mainly '70s and '80s. The biggest inspiration from my dad has to be David Bowie. Whenever my mum was out, we would listen to all his Bowie records back-to-back then watch some cut-throat Tarantino movie like Kill Bill (also great music on those soundtracks). I’m really inspired by anything from the '70s and '80s and, in fact, my name ‘Runrummer’ actually comes from the famous Rum Runner nightclub which helped launch classic '80s bands like Duran Duran and Dexys Midnight Runners back in the day.

I grew up with my dad talking about that place like it was a shining beacon of light on the Brummie music scene; so the name Runrummer is sort of a nod to my dad and to Birmingham as a whole and particularly the music that influenced me growing up.

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You moved from Bromsgrove to London. How important was it to move to the capital? Has it opened up doors and opportunities?

London is definitely the best place to be if you’re an emerging artist in the U.K. The people I’ve met and the opportunities I’ve encountered since moving here have been quite incredible. For example, I recorded the E.P. at Cafe Music Studio which is the H.Q. of Jon Hopkins. I can tell you it’s quite surreal making a cup of tea with Jon in the kitchen, overhearing the sonic sounds emanating from his room and witnessing and development of Singularity (his latest studio album). London is also just a great place to be inspired. It’s so full of life and colour.

Two of the tracks on the E.P. I actually wrote while I was travelling on the Tube. And I also find one of the best ways to work on a new song is to listen to it on-repeat while travelling on the front seat at the top of a double-decker. An American recently told me that my music sounds very London, so the city must be rubbing off on me!

Do you already have plans for 2019?

2019 is full of exciting things indeed. I’ve just joined The Rattle which is an awesome collective of artists and start-ups working together in East London. I’ll be releasing new music, creating new videos; gigging every month and throwing myself thoroughly into the festival scene. I’m also on the lookout to collaborate as much as possible with other artists...so watch this space!

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

Getting flown out to the Netherlands to record with Showtek at their studio in Eindhoven has to be a highlight. This was back in 2012. I’d just turned eighteen, just got my braces off and just left school. I couldn’t believe my luck! It was the first time I felt like my music was worth something and that’s the best feeling in the world when you’re just starting out. Recognition and validation.

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life? 

Music means the world. Happy or sad, it’s the soundtrack to your life and I love how it can help you feel like you’re not alone. Whenever I’ve been down and out, it’s music that’s helped to pull me through. It can act as a form of escapism but it can also show you ‘Hey, other people are going through sh*t too and you can get through it together’. I’d say that’s pretty important. Can you imagine a world without music? No way!

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

Demon Days – Gorillaz

This is the first C.D. I ever owned. I had it on-repeat on my Sony Walkman for a good twelve months. I used to turn on MTV and wait for the music video for Feel Good Inc. to come on. I was proper-obsessed. It was unlike anything else at the time and all their stuff has definitely had a strong influence on my music and writing. I actually wrote a new song called Urban Jungle recently with Damon Albarn in mind. Would love to work with him one day.

The Whole Story - Kate Bush

I know this is a compilation album, which might seem like a controversial choice, but this is the record my mum had on vinyl when I was growing up. Kate Bush has to be one of my biggest idols of all time. She definitely influenced the E.P. and probably every song I’ve ever written. I love listening to The Whole Story. Cloudbusting is my favourite. I’m waiting for someone to make a killer remix of that one. Maybe I should just make one myself…

Aladdin Sane - David Bowie

I was tempted to say The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust... but I think Aladdin Sane is actually the Bowie album which has had the biggest and longest lasting impact on me. Lady Grinning Soul hits me hard and the whole album makes me feel things. Bowie is God.

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

A music studio…wishful thinking!

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

Christine and the Queens, hands down. Héloïse Letissier is an absolute master. Have you seen her recent shows? I tried to get tickets for Victoria Apollo but they all sold out. And I’ve just seen she’s been announced to headline All Points East but I’m gutted I’ll be in Northern Ireland that weekend. Her performances on stage are incredible and I’d like to get to know her as an actual human being. What better way to know someone than to go on tour with them?

For the rider - I’ve got coeliac disease but venues never ever have any gluten-free beer, so I’d like a decent supply of that please!

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

1. Don’t put yourself under any unnecessary pressure, especially when it comes to timescales. Yes, you have a goal and you’re champing at the bit but take your time. Only release stuff when it’s ready and make sure it’s the best it can be. You want your debut to be flawless.

2. Get a publisher - someone like Sentric who understands independent artists and tries to give you a fair deal in a language which doesn’t sound foreign. This also takes a lot of stress off you trying to get your head around the world of publishing. It can be a real headache act the start!

3. Be nice to people. Don’t stick your nose where it doesn’t belong and don’t try to talk about things you have no idea about. It will definitely come back to bite you.

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

We’ve got a very exciting gig planned for January but I’m afraid I can’t spill the beans about that one just yet. However, I can tell you we’ll be supporting our good friends Zkeletonz at the Victoria in Dalston on 22nd Feb. Plus, we’ve got a headline show in Worcester planned for March. New dates are being added all the time so follow me on the all my socials to stay in the loop (smiles).

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Merryn Jeann

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes! Go check out Merryn Jeann! She’s definitely not new but still relatively unknown and deserves way more recognition I think her voice is incredible and her lyrics are flawless. The song she did with Møme called Aloha was a huge inspiration behind the making of my debut single Good for Nothing. I can’t wait to hear more from her as she grows. Definitely one to keep an eye on for sure!

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

Haha. Well, music is my way of chilling! I currently work full-time as a Transport Planner at TfL. It pays the bills and I get to ride on the Tube for free. Cheeky.

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).

Solange - Losing You. What a banger!

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Follow Runrummer

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INTERVIEW: Crimson Calamity

INTERVIEW:

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Crimson Calamity

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IT has been great speaking with Crimson Calamity...

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about their new single, First Snow, and why they decided to write something wintry. I discover how Crimson Calamity got together and whether there will be more material next year; what sort of music they are driven by and which rising artists we need to get behind.

Lauren and Mallory share favourite memories from their career and tell me what tour dates are coming up; the artists they’d support on the road if they had the chance – they select some cracking tracks to end things with.

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

Hey there! We are well. Thanks for asking. Just super-excited for the release of this single and the Holiday season!

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

Absolutely! We are Lauren and Mallory, a Roots-Rock/Americana duo called Crimson Calamity, living in Nashville.

First Snow is your new single. Was there a particular moment that inspired it - or did you want to create something with a winter/Christmas vibe?

We had wanted to write a Christmas song for some time and, when we finally sat down to do it, this idea of a loved one waiting for a soldier to come home developed. We wanted to make it somewhat timeless and not from one particular person’s perspective because love comes in many forms and so many people can relate. The Holidays can be such a wonderful happy time, but they can also leave people with a yearning or melancholy and we wanted to write something for the ones who wait.

Do you think there will be more material next year?

Absolutely! We are currently writing for our next E.P. and we will be back in the studio March 2019.

How did Crimson Calamity start? What brought you together?

We met in college and did a lot of collaborating over the years. We decided to form our band in 2014 when we were participating in a monthly songwriting challenge that led to us writing two songs inspired by Calamity Jane. They would give us different themes to write about. One particular month’s theme was to write about a historical event or person. The songs sparked the idea for the band so we decided to use her as our namesake in tribute.

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In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

We are both drawn to artists in many different genres but as an influence on our band we are drawn to old-school stuff: Fleetwood Mac, Dolly Parton and Johnny Cash. However, there are also artists in our generation that we love: Brandi Carlile, The Civil Wars; The Lone Bellow, Jamestown Revival; Grace Potter, Jason Isbell and Cam - artists who are telling stories and creating unapologetic, organic and timeless music.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Lauren: If I could have anything?! I think I would ask for a new car...probably a Tesla SUV. Is that selfish? Should I have asked for world peace?

Mallory: Teslas ARE really nice! I think, for me, a gift card to Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods - large enough for me to buy healthy food from for a few months. I’ve been naughty lately. Too much sugar.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

We do! We have a show at The Hotel Cafe in Los Angeles on 1/22 at 7 P.M. and then we are headed to the Sundance Film Festival. We are going to be touring, writing and recording the new record in March.

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

Recording our last record was a pretty special memory. We had original band members out from the West Coast and we recorded for the first time at The Sound Emporium here in Nashville. Everything came together in such a special way and we were just pinching ourselves because we felt so lucky.

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

Lauren: I feel like I have had different albums mean the most to me at different times in my life but one that sticks out would have to be Mumford & Sons’ first record, Sigh No More. The lyrics on that record just hit me like a ton of bricks and really resonated with me. That time in my life wasn’t the easiest and it helped me through. One of my favorite lyrics of all time is “There will come a time you’ll see, with no more tears/and love will not break your heart, but dismiss your fears/Get over the hill and see what you find there with grace in your heart and flowers in your hair”.

Mallory: This is such a hard question! There are so many albums I love top to bottom. I’m not sure I can pick just one...I think it might be a tie between Aerosmith’s Nine Lives because it’s a symphony of Rock and Roll and I love Steven Tyler…and I still think Sheryl Crow’s self-titled album is a masterpiece. Every single song is absolutely killer. Redhead by Bleu and the ’90s Romeo + Juliet soundtrack are honorable mentions.

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

It’d be so fun to open for an artist like Harry Styles or Chris Stapleton. They’re both amazing writers and vocalists. We also are huge into supporting the ladies so someone like Cam, Kacey Musgraves or Grace Potter would also be amazing. As far as a rider goes, please have whiskey, wine or both. Neat and red respectively.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Calamity Jane has a quote: “If a girl wants to be a legend, she should just go ahead and be one”. That really resonates with us because being a woman in the entertainment business isn’t always a walk in the park and we oftentimes have to fight twice as hard to even get heard. It’s so important to hone your craft and know your business. Don’t let anyone try to tone down your voice and don’t be afraid to take up space in this industry.

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

We do! We will be at Knoxville’s Blue Plate Special WDVX on Dec 15th. We are also playing a show in Franklin, TN that night at The Pond. At Truck & Tap in Alpharetta, GA on Jan 13th and, again, you can catch us at The Hotel Cafe in L.A. on 1/22 plus more to come! The best way to keep up with our shows is to follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@crimsoncmusic).

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Lennon Stella

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Lauren: I am loving Lennon Stella’s new music. She is so talented and I can’t wait to see where she goes.

Mallory: Totally agree. Lennon Stella’s new record is fantastic. Also, local Nashville band The Foxies. They totally rock. Look out for them.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: The Foxies

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

Fortunately, we are both obsessed with music so we don’t need much chill time away, but I’d say we both like to hang with our significant others and our dogs. We love to go see shows and go out for dinner and drinks too. Taking time for self-care is something we are both trying to be better at. We’re definitely guilty of energizer bunny mode.

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).

Lauren: Mockingbird by Ruston Kelly

 

Mallory: Horns by Bryce Fox

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Follow Crimson Calamity

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INTERVIEW: The Fame

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Avalon Mohns 

The Fame

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I have been speaking with The Fame...

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about their debut single, Wide Awake, and what its story is. They tell me how the band formed and what we can expect from their approaching E.P. – the guys reveal albums important to them and rising artists that are worth a shout.

I was keen to discover which artists influence them and whether there are upcoming tour dates; what they would like for Christmas and which artists they’d support given the chance – they select some cool tracks to end the interview with.

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

Really busy. We just released our debut single - and we’ve been swamped with lots of things that need to get done. But, other than that, it’s been good.

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

Yes. We are a four-piece Indie-Rock band from Toronto, Canada. We have been around for about two years, and we all come from different backgrounds and walks of life.

Wide Awake is your debut single. Is there a story behind it?

Not really. It’s just a song about how people perceive themselves and the world around them. The happenings of everyday life; walking around in your own shoes...especially during hard times or the periods in your life when you feel like you have nothing good or redeeming to grasp onto.

I know an E.P. is coming next year. Can you reveal any themes or ideas behind the songs?

The songs are just about real things. Real emotions, real feelings and real thoughts; stuff everybody goes through. Besides that, there isn’t really a theme behind the E.P.

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What was it like working with Brian Moncarz on the E.P.?

It was a great experience. Brian saved us as a band. We had tried recording about seven or eight times before working with him and it was going nowhere until we sent him our demo tapes - and he loved them. He gave us a new perspective and did an amazing job with this E.P. He’s experienced, and knows what he’s doing. Can’t say enough good things about him.

When did The Fame get together? How did you find one another?

We were four best friends in high-school who grew up on the same street together and decided to form a ba…nah. Our story is far from that. I, Brandon answered an ad on Craigslist looking for a rhythm guitarist for a new band and, in that band, I met Yu, who was the lead guitarist. We became friends and, when that band was falling apart we decided to leave and start our own band. We put ads up online looking for a bassist and, through one of the people who answered the ad, we met Andrew who joined the band full-time after subbing in on bass for our first show.

After trying out a succession of drummers, we met Rodrigo who had just moved from Chile to Canada and became roommates with Yu in the same house. He was a music educator in Chile. Our current drummer at the time quit and the rest, as they say, is history…

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In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

We all have our own preferences and influences but, as a band, we’re most drawn to artists like: The Beatles, Velvet Underground; Neil Young, Nirvana; Oasis, White Stripes; Strokes, Arctic Monkeys; Smashing Pumpkins and Red Hot Chili Peppers.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

I think we would all like some new amps and some Long & McQuade gift cards. Haha.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yeah. We’ve got two more singles to drop in the New Year and then the full E.P. which we are expecting to release around March/April. We’re also starting to line up a bunch of shows for the New Year as well.

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

Touring is always the most fun but also anytime we’ve got to play at the Horseshoe in Toronto is great. Especially the time it was nearly sold out; that was incredible.

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

There are SO many albums we could name but, for the sake of this interview, four albums that are important to each of us are: The Beatles - The Beatles (White Album); Oasis - Definitely Maybe; Nirvana - In Utero and Red Hot Chili Peppers - Blood Sugar Sex Magik.

Each of these albums has its own distinctive identity - and that’s part of the reason why they are so important to us. Each has inspired us as composers and as musicians. There are so many more we wish we could mention like The Strokes, Velvet Underground; Arctic Monkeys, Smashing Pumpkins; Sonic Youth, White Stripes etc., but we’ll save those for the next interview sometime down the road.

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

Paul McCartney or Neil Young, for sure. Who knows how much longer they will be touring, so we couldn’t pass up an opportunity to open up for one of them. They are both huge inspirations for us. Oh...and definitely NO brown M&M’s.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write lots of songs and play as many shows as you can.

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

Nothing we can announce yet, but lots of dates in the works. We are just coming off a sold-out show at the Cameron House in Toronto.

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We’ve been listening to The Beaches, Dirty Nil; MIGHTY, DIIV; Ready the Prince and Crown Lands recently. All very good.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Crown Lands/PHOTO CREDIT: Kurt Cuffy

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

We each have our own ways of unwinding. But, mostly, just hanging with friends or family. Going to shows or concerts; taking in the art/film scene in Toronto. Music is an important part of each of us, so we never really get away from it.

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).

Sounds good! Here’s what were all feeling today:

The Strokes - Automatic Stop

Red Hot Chili Peppers - My Lovely Man

The Beatles - I Want You (She’s So Heavy)

Black Sabbath - Hole in the Sky

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Follow The Fame

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INTERVIEW: The Yacht Club

INTERVIEW:

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The Yacht Club

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THE guys of The Yacht Club...

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have been revealing how they found one another and what we can expect from their upcoming album, The Last Words That You Said to Me Have Kept Me Here and Safe. They discuss the emotional and personal story behind their single, Heigham Park, and what it was like putting together its video.

The chaps highlighttheir favourite albums and the music that matters most; which rising artists we need to get behind and whether there are any gigs approaching – they each pick a great song to end the interview with.

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

Jack: Stressful but good! Some friends of ours opened a new recording studio on Saturday (@thebookhousestudio on Instagram) and I spent a lot of last week helping them get the space sorted for the opening day.

Marcus: Very busy, very tiring! I had a lovely chat to the Such Great Heights podcast about all things musical which should be out in a couple of weeks. I’ve also been rehearsing with another band I play in (Employed to Serve) for our upcoming tour.

Alex: Good, thanks! Been getting some artwork ready for the band’s Japanese release.

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

Jack: I’m Jack and I play guitar and sing.

Marcus: I’m Marcus and I also play guitar and sing!

Alex: Hey, I’m Alex - I play drums live and also do keys on our recordings.

How did The Yacht Club form? What attracted you to one another?

Jack: I actually only joined the band two years ago, but I went to school with Alex and know the rest of the guys through him. I covered bass duties whilst Alex was away on another tour, so when our old guitarists left, I guess I was an obvious choice for the others.

Marcus: T.Y.C. was a way of writing songs for myself and not for anyone else. I had spent a few years doing the session musician thing in London and had really been neglecting my own artistic expression. I just wanted to make music like all my favourite bands and I think my own words to Tom (who has recorded all of our music to date) were “I wanna be just like Pennines!” I met Ali (Alex who plays drums) on a music course we were doing and played in a band together briefly, so when T.Y.C. came around it was a perfect fit.

Whilst I say it was a solo project, Ali has been there for every recording; played drums and keys on it all and been there since pretty much the very start.  I lived with Alex (bass) when I was at uni and met Jack through him! Whilst the line-up has had people come and go, this one feels very natural.

Alex: Myself and Marcus met at ICMP in 2011 for a Live Event Management project. We’ve been writing music together ever since! Marcus got me on-board for drums on ‘A’ in late 2012 (initially a solo project). Also, Marcus looks more like my brother than my actual brother. P.M. us for proof.

Heigham Park is out. What is the story behind it? What was it like putting the video together?

Marcus: Heigham Park was written about dealing with losing one of my closest friends, Blythe, to suicide. The park itself is somewhere we would go after school and during the summer. There are a lot of special memories associated with that place and now there’s a bench there in his memory. It’s one of the most honest and upfront songs I think I have ever written, let alone one that appears on the record. The idea and demo for the song has existed for about three years in its most basic form. It went through a few stylistic changes before arriving at its current form! I’ve had the second half of the chorus and the first verse since the start though.

The video was fun to do! The live shots were taken in this really cool space we hired out off of Brick Lane. However, the drums were far too loud so we could only get two takes! The woodland area was the same day as another video shoot our director (Andy Curd - Kamaji Studios) was involved with the same day! It was a tight squeeze to fit it in with our schedules but I’m really happy with how it has turned out.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Alfredo Guzman

The Last Words That You Said to Me Have Kept Me Here and Safe is out in January. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the record?

Marcus: The whole album was written over a period of immense grief and sadness following Blythe’s death. He was the only one of my friends who I could talk so openly about mental-health and the problems we shared and, when he went, it was like that lifeline was severed. Towards the end of the writing process, I also lost my father very suddenly too and this made its way into a few last-minute lyrics and musical ideas. Not only do you start questioning your own mortality when losing someone so suddenly, but it brings every life choice you have made so far into question.

So, naturally, my writing reflects this. It’s an album of recovery and realising you do have people there for you, even if the ones you thought would stand by you didn’t - and making your way through to the other side.

In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

Jack: I grew up listening to a lot of Metal and Hardcore, which is something I’m still very much into, but I guess my main interests musically are Punk/Emo bands and singer-songwriters. Death Cab for Cutie are a massive influence on all of us and I really love bands like Joyce Manor and Charly Bliss. In terms of singer songwriters, boygenius and each of the members’ solo projects are huge sources of inspiration for me.

Marcus: I will always and forever go back to City and Colour. Dallas Green really shaped my songwriting and singing from a young age. I like a lot of bands that can instil emotion and have clever production such as Death Cab For Cutie, Jimmy Eat World and a lot of Owen records. But, then again, I’m a big fan of that noodly guitar playing! Into It Over It do this so well whilst maintaining excellent choruses and not being over the top with it.

Alex: For me, Jimmy Eat World was the first band that I got obsessed with. The first song I heard was Sweetness when I was twelve. I used to be into far more ‘technical-for-the-sake-of-it’ music; now, I’m more drawn to creatively-simple artists. A teacher once said “The simplicity on the other side of complexity”.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Simon Treasure

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Jack: If money (and space) weren’t a problem I’d have a Fender Quad Reverb.

Marcus: I’m a boring adult; so really valuing good kitchen equipment these days...

Alex: I really want to get back into drawing, so a new drawing pad and a set of pencils. That or a cast iron pan.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Jack: We absolutely do! We’re looking to play a load more shows once the album is out and are all really desperate to get on the festival circuit!

Marcus: Touring and playing a whole lot more. I just want to get this record out to as many people as I can! Already a few demos deep into the next release, so I’m excited to get that started.

Alex: We’ve been working on some piano versions of the tracks, so potentially a cheeky acoustic release could be in the works in between albums.

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

Jack: Recording gang vocals for the last track on the album. We did a lot of overnight sessions with our friend, Tom Hill, and the (sometimes-stressful) late nights made things quite difficult, as well as the distance between us whilst we were recording. It was the first time we’d all been together in such a long time and there was such a sense that everything had come together and had clicked.

Marcus: Sounds cliché and obvious but listening back to the first bounces we received from the album. Recording this album was such a landmark moment not only for the band, but for ourselves as well. With an unsteady line-up, we had not really been a band on the outside world for the best part of a year. I had recently moved to Norwich after my father passed whilst everyone else was back in London so recording and writing was plagued with delays due to distance and me touring heavily with a band called Ducking Punches. But we did it. I’m super-proud of everyone for making this the best thing we’ve ever done.

Alex: Tracking drums for this album at Holy Mountain Studios in Hoxton last August. Four days of drum production geekery and storming off saying “I hate this track”; forgetting I was on my own in public wearing my favourite Chuckle Brothers T-shirt.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Alfredo Guzman

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

Jack: For me, probably Casually Dressed & Deep in Conversation by Funeral for a Friend. That was the first album that I was ever super-into and it got me into a load of music that I still really love today. Their farewell shows in London were the same weekend as my birthday and being at those shows with my brother are really special memories to me.

Marcus: Bring Me Your Love by City and Colour. This was the album that really pushed me into writing and singing and really shaped my musical tastes. It was the album that taught me it’s ok to not be ok and I am so thankful for that.

Alex: Always a tough one. Easy answer would be Clarity by Jimmy Eat World because I was at the right point in my life to be listening to that album. De-Loused at the Comatorium by The Mars Volta opened my mind as to what was possible with drumming and also music.

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

Jack: Julien Baker. Both her albums are incredible and she puts on an amazing show. I’d also love to know what her live setup is!

Marcus: Jimmy Eat World, for sure. They’ve had such an impact on all of us and it’d be a truly bucket-list moment. For the rider, I’d have a crate of Vego bars and Temple of Seitan burgers.

Alex: Been loving what Lianne La Havas does for a while - pure talent; otherworldly.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Alfredo Guzman

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Marcus: Have fun, be positive and keep an open mind through the whole process. You might start making music in one genre and decide another one is more to your liking! Listen to as much music as you can, and be respectful to everyone.

Alex: Cliché, but have fun! That’s why we all started loving music, keep it that way. Keep curious and actually listen to music, not just background noise.

Jack: Say ‘yes’ to as much as you can - you never know where an opportunity will take you; be willing to compromise with other musicians you work with and have fun!

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

Marcus: We have a couple of launch shows for the album coming up! 26th January at the Sebright Arms in London and 2nd February at The Steam Packet in Norwich. We’ve also got an intimate acoustic show on the 14th January which you’ll hear about soon.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Dryjacket/PHOTO CREDIT: @walk.into.the.light

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jack: No Stranger, Dryjacket and Don’t Worry.

Alex: Christof van der Ven.

Marcus: Spanish Love Songs, Marigolds and Shadowboxer.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Marigolds/PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Seago

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

Marus: Music is my full-time job, so it really does take over all parts of my life! If I have some time to unplug, nothing beats lasting an afternoon playing Skyrim with multiple cups of tea.

Alex: Loads! I unwind with a casual run around parks in N.W. London. That or lose myself in a book at a new café I’ve discovered on a random walk.

Jack: I don’t really do much else, honestly. I left my job last year to go back to university and study music and also to give me more time to focus on making music. Unwinding for me is usually putting something relaxing on and hanging out with my dog - City and Colour’s most-recent live album is a current favourite for this

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)

Jack: Great Grey Towers by No Stranger

Marcus: Friends in Theory by Tommy Boys

Alex: London by Third Eye Blind

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Follow The Yacht Club

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INTERVIEW: RØMANS

INTERVIEW:

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RØMANS

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I have been chatting with RØMANS...

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about his current single, Oxygen, and how it started life. He shares a precious music memory and tells me what he has in store for next year; a few approaching acts we need to look out for and the albums that have inspired him.

RØMANS tells me how he spends time away from music and how he feels he has developed since the start of his career; what advice he would give to new musicians coming through and the artist he would like to support on tour – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hi, there. It’s been a great week so far (1:45 P.M. on a Monday).

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

Sure. I’m Romans; a songwriter, producer and singer. I’m from London but spend most of my time in L.A. writing and producing for other people. I can’t really put a label on the music I make for myself: it’s just an output for my personal taste; I don’t really have a specific genre that I make. I just love music and try to do whatever I’m feeling like at the time. 

Oxygen is your latest single. It is a slightly softer sound. What is the inspiration behind it?

To add some light to dark. I try and avoid repeating sounds so the piano ballad is always a good option to mix things up a bit. I wanted to play around with old sounds, hence the Mellotron. I was listening to I Don’t Believe in Miracles by Colin Blunstone that day.

Will there be an album or E.P. next year?

The music I’m putting out at the moment is an album; I’m just putting it out separately. I feel like no one has the time for a body of work anymore. I’m working on a new album that will come out in some format next year too.

How do you think your work has developed and evolved since the start of your career?

I think I’ve just owned being androgynous with my sound. I was always concerned with being considered a confused artist and then I remembered I literally don’t give a f*ck.

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Can you give me an idea of the artists, older and new, who inspire you and compel your own sound?

Absolutely. There are so many. From Rachmaninov and Chopin to The Beatles and Dylan to Stevie and Donny Hathaway; to Kanye and Childish Gambino. There’s not really a great deal of music I don’t like and get inspired by. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I do indeed. It consists of writing for some great artists, developing some newer ones and finishing my next album. 

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

Sitting at the piano with Elton John and writing a song will probably never be topped. 

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

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

This was probably my awakening as an ‘artist’. It’s the first time I ever looked at songs as more than just melodies I liked. 

Stevie Wonder - Songs in the Key of Life

Offensively-brilliant album. Every song is a work of art. One of the greatest artists in history in his absolute prime.

Kanye West - The College Dropout

Played it until the C.D. warped. Mind-blowing album. Possibly the greatest debut album ever.

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

Great question. I want the Back to the Future sneakers. The original ones.

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IN THIS PHOTO: RØMANS alongside Lewis Capaldi (left) and Ghosted (centre)/PHOTO CREDIT: @RØMANS

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

I want to support Susan Boyle. My rider is as follows: three cans of Appletiser - cans not bottles. Hummus (avec crudités). A PlayStation V.R. headset (I will provide the PlayStation). A golden retriever puppy. An ornamental bullfighting statue. Four blunts. A Funfax organiser. A Chicken Salad sandwich from M&S.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do whatever you want. Only listen to your gut and pray to God that you have good taste.

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

Not currently...

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IN THIS PHOTO: Aj Mitchell

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Aj Mitchell, Maisie Peters; L Devine and Eyelar. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Maisie Peters  

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

Not a lot of time - because it’s my job and hobby. I do eventually get burnt-out and take a forced holiday which I always end up enjoying. 

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

Thank you! I choose Dunes by Alabama Shakes

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Follow RØMANS

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