FEATURE: The March Playlist: Vol.2: A Sadboy in the Club

FEATURE:

 

The March Playlist

 IN THIS IMAGE: Hinds 

Vol.2: A Sadboy in the Club

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THERE is a nice mixture of…

IN THIS PHOTO: Lily Allen

bigger tunes and some lesser-known ones this week. Manic Street Preachers and Lily Allen introduce new material; there are fresh slices from Hinds and Beach House; a cool video from Wolf Alice - and songs from Dream Wife, The Shires and Plan B.

In addition; you can sample numbers from Young Fathers; Albert Hammond Jr.; Anderson.Paak, Kylie Minogue and Editors – with many more in there to choose from!

ALL PHOTOS/IMAGES (unless credited otherwise): Getty Images

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Wolf Alice – Sadboy

Hinds – The Club

Manic Street Preachers - Dylan & Caitlin

Lily Allen - Higher

James Bay – Pink Lemonade

PHOTO CREDIT: James Pearson-Howes

Simian Mobile Disco – Hey Sister (Short Version)

John Newman – Fire in Me

Kylie Minogue – Stop Me from Falling

The Shires – Guilty

PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando

Gengahr – Is This How You Love?

George Ezra - Hold My Girl 

Vince Staples – Get the F*** Off My D***

Wiley – Remember Me

Years & Years – Sanctify

Ady Suleiman – Loving Arms

Plan B – Guess Again

Liv Dawson - Talk

Camila Cabello - Never Be the Same

Albert Hammond Jr. – Tea for Two

Kojey Radical – If Only

David Byrne – Dog’s Mind

Editors – Darkness at the Door

Lewis Capaldi (ft. Jessie Reyez) - Rush

Flyte – Moon Unit

PHOTO CREDIT: Scarlett Carlos Clarke

Matt Maltese – Greatest Comedian

Moose Blood – Such a Shame

Young Fathers – Border Girl

Dream Wife (ft. Fever Dream) – FUU

Dizzee Rascal – Ghost

Samantha Harvey – When It Comes Down

Anderson.Paak – Til It’s Over

Ocean China – Chinese Assassin

PHOTO CREDIT: http://www.patrickgunning.com/

Sea Girls – Eat Me Whole

Bon Jovi - When We Were Us

Island Club – Sober

Caitlyn Scarlett – Ornaments

TRACK REVIEW: Mïrändä - GLOW

TRACK REVIEW:

 

Mïrändä

GLOW

 

9.5/10

GLOW is available via:

https://open.spotify.com/album/5VyLAu6a5fJMepIO3FJl7o

GENRE:

Electronic

ORIGIN:

New York, U.S.A.

RELEASE DATE:

2nd March, 2018

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THIS review provides me the chance…

to look at a variety of different things. I want to explore female talent and why, this week, it is especially important we throw a light on them. I will look at N.Y.C. and why the area continues to produce fantastic music; how geography and diverse landscape inspires music; transcending limitations and going beyond simple boundaries; gaining kudos and getting the backing of other artists; artists who stand out on their own and do not follow the pack; creating sound textures and collages – ending with a bit about music’s future and why we need to make some changes. This week has seen International Women’s Day and, with it, a host of blogs, features and interviews springing up – all celebrating women in music and what an impact they have made. I think about Mïrändä and the fight she has on her hands. That is not to say her music lacks killer conviction: she is a stunning act but, in an industry that is still imbalanced; there are so many obstacles in the way. Female artists, and women in the world, have to fight to get the same recognition as the men. It is worrying seeing so many fantastic musicians overlooked because of their gender. Mïrändä is fighting and producing some great music but, as we move through 2018; I wonder whether we need to take decisive action and intervene. To me; female artists are providing some of the best most attractive music around. I am pleased there is that range and originality available to the consumer. It is good to see artists away from the mainstream go beyond what we expect and create wonder. The N.Y.C.-based artist has made some big steps and is one of the most innovative and stirring acts I have heard. I do find it stupid many overlook female talent because of their gender. If there was an issue of quality – they were lacking any clout and ability – then there would (I guess) be an argument for this kind of slight. As it is, we are seeing a disparity and gulf based on nothing at all.

The only way there is going to be evasive and fast action is elevating the finest female artists around. The trouble is this: there are so many musicians to choose from; it is dizzying and challenging. Mïrändä is one of those people who will not let things rest and will continue to forge her way through music. She is getting a lot of respect and making waves in her native area. The imbalance in terms of gender is one of the biggest curses we have in modern music. If we continue to let this practice continue then we risk marginalising some of the finest artists around. I will move onto other areas soon but, before then, another reason why we need to embrace female artists and everything they do. I have mentioned innovation – and will continue to do so later – but fee there is an extra layer of magic inherent in the music of female musicians. Maybe it is their natural passion and curiosity but, when I hear female-made music; I get something lacking from the men – a spark and touch that goes beyond the ordinary. One can argue this is bias and personal preference but the story is the same with many people. I hear of others who have the same feelings when it comes to female acts. In the case of Mïrändä; she combines an immense beauty and physicality with an intelligence and soulfulness. There is something endlessly fantastic about her sounds and what she does to the listener. Once you hear a snippet of her music; there is pull and effect. You get taken in and immersed in a safe and comfortable place. It is impossible to detach yourself from Mïrändä’s great music and sound. That makes the argument about gender in music completely stupid. There are incredible artists out there, like Mïrändä, who provide music that goes beyond anything you can imagine. The fact she, and others like her, are given fewer opportunities than men makes me wonder what has happened to music.

I have stepped away from New York a while so, with the arrival of a new artist; it is time to get back there and investigate the area. The state is so vast that it is impossible to get a good grip on things and a proper understanding. The five boroughs have a very different flair and flavour: depending on where you go; there is something that suits your needs. I have never been over there myself – I plan on doing it – but have been invested in New York since I was young. There is the rush and energy of the place; the different people and cultures. I am excited seeing the state burgeon and influence. That has always been the way but, now more than ever, I feel New York will play a huge role. London is fantastic and continuingly broad; there are other wonderful cities that get into the head – none that have the same impact as New York.  I am not sure what part Mïrändä is from but she vibes from the sounds and sensations of the streets. What gets me about her music is the way it encapsulates all the colours around her but has an accessible quality. It is important musicians make sounds that are different but manage to strike a relatable chord with the listener. I am stunned by the eclectic and wide-ranging nature of the New York music scene. Every neighbourhood and corner projects its own flair and inspiration. It is a bustling and kinetic part of the world that has majesty like no other. I can imagine it is a perfect place for Mïrändä to create and find material. Many will argue there are a lot of people around and it can be hard finding space here: there are plenty of parts to retreat in; quieter and more relaxed areas of New York. Nobody can deny the allure and strength of New York – and why its musicians are among the most promising in the world.

Before I come to look at Mïrändä’s rise and style of music; I will stay in New York and why it is somewhere more people should think about. Many musicians I know are heading over to New York and excited to get gigs. It has that intrigue that nowhere else in the world does. Whether you are compelled by the multicultural angles and the mixture of races; the fantastic sites and landmarks available; the bustling streets and the way you can get swept away. It is the music and arts of New York that stands out. You have decades (and centuries) of music that stands the test of time; inventiveness of the modern breed who continue to uphold the proud name and add their name to the history books. It is fantastic watching the modern clan borrow from the past and inject something unique and personal. Mïrändä is a curious writer and, as she progresses in her career; I wonder whether she will remain in New York – relocate somewhere else and start a new life. There is no real reason to depart from New York. The area is vast and opportunity-laden; there are plenty of chances for musicians to get their stuff heard and promoted; all manner of people there to keep the imagination nurtured. To me, it is symbolic of a free and balanced community that does not push people away and continues to support those who live there. Maybe I am being naïve but, for a musician, there is a sense of belonging and connection. You can find like-minded individuals who will share your vision and support your drive. New York has some of the best venues in the world and, as you shift between boroughs; you get a new sensation and take-away. So many artists from the U.K. are either moving to New York or playing there. There is the issue of cost – not that much different to places like London – but there are more chances available. It is a more competitive place to be but, in terms of rewards; it is well worth the risk. I would suggest Mïrändä remain there because, the bigger her career gets; the more relevant and important New York becomes.

I have spoken a lot about areas separate from the music itself. Mïrändä is a modern musician who has the same sort of aspects and ideas as many out there – she transcends the simple and strays away from the commercial. One of the most noticeable aspects of the modern machine is the ‘single campaign’. Artists have distinct visuals for each campaign which means there are some limits to journalists. It is fine to be restricted to a few snaps but, in terms of scope and mobility; I wonder whether more flexibility should be granted. I guess, now, music is about marketable structure and rigid planning. In order to get a single out there and trending; the musician needs to address all angles of promotion and creating a very precise and measured attack. Although there are fewer images available than many artists; one gets an impression of what Mïrändä is about and her style. The music is an important guide – cannot get too hung up about photos – but, with the images you can see here; one gets an impression of a unique soul and alluring talent. That might be because of the area she is based in and how the complexities of New York feed into her blood. I see some slyness and vulnerability in Mïrändä; there is a softness and shyness that mixes with boldness, rush and panache. That is a fantastic and heady brew that means the music has a lot of depth and sustain. Maybe the streets of New York provide the sort of direction many do not have access to. London is a vast landscape but, compared to New York; it is a small fish against a mighty shark. We do not have the same vastness and variety at our feet. Mïrändä is living in a part of the world that has geography like no other. It is impossible to live somewhere like New York and not take something away from the place.

Maybe there is that physical effect and resonance. I feel Mïrändä is someone who takes from her past and present, personally, as she does anything else. You listen to her music and get the impression of a very special and rare soul. Her personality comes to the fore and one feels a real understanding and connection. I know a lot of artists who give their all to the music and pour their personalities out. There are few who have the same openness and revelation as Mïrändä. She provides music that digs deep into the soul and makes the heart skip a beat. Few humans are as striking and stirring as she is. That means the music goes a lot further and remains in the mind for longer. One can say that is a symptom of a New York musician but that, to me, is the result of someone who has grown up a certain way. I can only imagine the kind of music Mïrändä holds dear and was raised on. I can hear a lot of classic Pop and Soul artists in her own sound – the way her voice sounds and the threads she weaves together. One gets impressions of modern New York artists and the most innovative around. I hear so many different ideas and expressions working in her own music. Mïrändä is an innovative mind and someone who holds music dear. She loves to project her personality onto the page but, on GLOW; there is something extra and unexpected. It is hard to put into words but one hears GLOW and so many different ideas working alongside one another. You get blasts from the past and some classic sounds; the urgent pace of the modern streets and what is happening around her – some elements unique to Mïrändä and what she is about. I am always drawn to artists who depart from the predictable and have something special about them.

I shall move onto the song itself in time but, before then; I wanted to investigate artists who have achieved a lot and why they get the respect they do. Dancing Astronaut, The Deli Magazine; Pancakes and Whiskey and DIY Magazine have already supported her music. YouTube stars, including Julien Solomita and Jason Nash, have used her songs in numerous Vlogs – it has been a successful and important time for Mïrändä. Many might say this is nothing special: so many artists get under the radar of big publications and get a level of fame. There are few who get under the skin of such big names so early. It takes a while for most artists to accrue the sort of attention Mïrändä has got in her career. You need to have something engaging and original in your locker to get into the head of any magazine/critic. It is not good enough turning up with something samey and expecting people to be all over you. There are so many artists who still have that approach. It means you get a faction who is unwilling to engage beyond the plodding and commercial. Mïrändä is a musician who knows you need to mix the understandable and familiar with something personal. I hear shades of commercial music in her own sounds – it is not too pressing and precise. It means one can easily bond with her sounds but it is not too chart-bound and depressing. You get fizz and wild imagination; there is a seductive quality and beauty that brews and percolates in every note. It is a captivating concoction that easily translates into music - but it has a special edge. I am always looking out for artists who can perfect this chemistry and sustain it. I will end the review by looking at Mïrändä’s future but, right now, she is on fire and in peak form. There is nobody out in the music world that does the same thing as she does. People are responding to her music and getting behind every offering.

Before I look at GLOW; I want to look at Mïrändä’s soundscapes and how she fuses elements together. There are Electronic strands but Pop ideas and harder slices. I am still finding musicians who repeat what is out there and do not go far beyond the expected. It can be hard departing from the normal and straying from the commercial. Artists that do go beyond the familiar are to be commended. There is something risky about it but, when you listen to the music, it has that additional grace and power. Mïrändä defies genre and is hard to classify. There is Dream-Pop there but, when you look closer; is it easy to label her?! I do not think so. The style she has tailored is her own – going further than most other new artists around. All the elements and ideas she has assimilated into her music hit the senses and compels you to follow her. I have heard few artists who are as passionate and committed to music as Mïrändä. She is a dedicated and hard-working talent who puts her everything into, well…everything. It is humbling hearing a musician who expends that much energy, commitment and love into each song. GLOW is another big step from the stunning and multi-talented songwriter. I wonder where Mïrändä will go from here – in terms of her musicianship and style. She has crafted something that has flexibility and promise. She can take it in other directions and find more room. I wonder whether Mïrändä will assimilate other strands into her music as she moves through the year. Everything about Mïrändä hits the heart and urges you to remain with her. GLOW has been getting a lot of love and affection from people out there. Websites and reviewers are lending their praise: the public is behind it and it seems few are immune to the wonders of the song.

GLOW gets straight down to business and bubbles off the speakers. The electronics and beats crackle and there is a youthful, fulsome dynamic to the song. Although the earliest words are hard to decipher – too breathy and mixed-down against the bold composition – it is the sensation and sigh you get from Mïrändä that connects. There is that allure and sensuality brimming and touching the listener. The beginning of the song is such a physical and sexual thing. You are hooked into the song and compelled to surrender to its lustre. The heroine talks about a realisation and not having a heartbeat – until the hero came along and changed things. One instantly understands where Mïrändä is coming from and where her mind is heading. There is that relatability but, in the way she sings, something unique and personal. Mïrändä is not keen to mimic other sings and create tropes. GLOW sees her explore this new-found love and having her life reinvented. The energy and colours that burst from the speakers get into the heart; the vocal is raw and impassioned. One gets views of the dancefloor and clubs – as the composition gets sterner and a little more sexual – and the heroine’s eyes wide and alive. Blood is rushing to the head and one can get a real sense of what is happening. People are milling around and there is fascinating on the floor. People are hooking up and the attraction of the music swims in the blood. Mïrändä is looking across and finding someone who instantly connects with her. It is a very evocative sentiment that is never crude and uncomplicated: the heroine keeps things back and builds momentum and mood. She cannot find “this glow” and fascination. The composition rises and falls; it echoes and bounces with pride. One can hear the composition bounce and mirror the lyrics. You start to move and connect with the music; caught in the tide and starting to project images. Although Mïrändä has her own style and sound; one can detect elements of modern Pop idols and elements of her voice. One can hear some familiar vocals but Mïrändä manages to fuse so much of herself that it does not dampen the song and make you think of anyone else too readily. The heroine is caught in the moment and curious where it will head. The beats and electronics continue to change course and it is such a physical and unexpected song. The pace and energy never relent and the listener is powerless to refute the pull and prowess of GLOW. I wonder whether the heroine is looking at her past and making the same mistakes – embracing a new relationship and something that could be more positive.

She is going around and around and cannot pull away from the magic. This attraction is strong and it is causing Mïrändä to wonder and imagine. I was thinking about men who have treated her badly and let her down. Maybe this boy is the same and it means the same errors will come in. I was caught between someone who was excited by a fresh challenge and affection but fighting against the temptation to repeat past bonds. That light and glow is hard to fight and is endlessly attractive. The more the song goes on; I was looking at the positive and how this feeling should not be questioned. I have been looking at GLOW from different angles and wondering whether it is about that single night or the start of a longer relationship. To me; there is this new experience that Mïrändä wants to retain and foster. The music pops and one feels involved and connected with the visions. You transpose yourself into the song and follow this flirtation. The cheeks of the heroine are crimson and you can feel the two coming together. There is electricity in the air and the sweat drips from the walls. That does not mean GLOW is overtly sexual and salacious. She talks about attraction and that desire: the song goes deeper and is more emotional than one might expect. By the latter stages; the song gets more playful and the heroine’s voice skips and teases. The composition continues to exert images and possibilities – the heroine dreams of tripping and not feeling the fall. There are so many different sounds and layers in the song – the head always spins and the imagination is working over-time. I wonder whether that ‘trip’ is her falling for the man: perhaps the sensation has, literally, knocked her off the feet and taken its toll. Whatever your impressions of GLOW; it signals a vital talent in the industry making moves few others can dream of. I am curious where Mïrändä will go and what her next move will be. It is hard to ignore the passion and intensity that comes from GLOW. It gets right into the head but has so many layers working away – you will come back and discover something fresh every single time. Kudos to a hungry and stunning artist who is subverting expectations and providing some of the most engaging and thrilling music around. I am in no doubt Mïrändä will ascend to the giddy heights of the mainstream in years to come – adding her own style and able to inspire many other artists when she is there. Make sure you investigate her music and get your ears around GLOW. The New York-based heroine is on the rise right now. It is wonderful seeing a singular artist hit the soul and produce such a fantastic song.

Mïrändä attended NYU Tisch School of the Arts for both Acting and Songwriting and was a 2013/2014 YoungArts winner. She has performed her original material at Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center and at TD Garden alongside Josh Groban. She has achieved a lot and saw her debut E.P., Empire, featuring on big blogs. Her following is strong but I wonder whether she can go further. Her Twitter numbers are growing but I listen to GLOW and realise there is a whole world of followers out there. I wonder whether there will be more material coming and where Mïrändä heads. A lot of people in the U.K. will want to see her and see her perform live. I hope London is part of her plans later in the year. Right now; Mïrändä is working on the promotion for GLOW and ensuring it gets far and wide. Once the dust has settled and she is thinking of new moves; it will be interesting seeing what that entails and what direction she takes. I think Mïrändä has hit on a very appealing sound and concocted her own world. There are few who have the same reach and nuance as she does. I am excited to think what comes and, the more songs she puts out; the more people will latch onto her. There is a following for her music in New York but I would like to see more people here get behind her. It is still early for Mïrändä and her music: the more time she puts in; the greater the rewards will be. So far, she has done a lot and seen her songs get out to the people. I can only imagine what it is like for a New York-based artist. You only need listen to GLOW and realise what it all means to Mïrändä. She is dedicated and putting her all into music. There is no time to relax and lessen the pace. For that – and because she is a rare and original artist – we should all put our weight behind…

A very special human.   

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Follow Mïrändä

Official:

http://www.whoismiranda.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MirandasMusicPage

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cutebbpizza/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Mirandas_Music

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrColKAFX3BPm5STCJ7r9Fw

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/musicmiranda

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/03Y05ovRjUhXKBEDefYnmy

'PURPLE'/GLOW PHOTOS:

Danny Lieberson 

ALL OTHERS:

Lissy Elle

INTERVIEW: Cat Turner

INTERVIEW:

Cat Turner

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YOU have a pretty varied choice…

when it comes to solo artists! Whatever your tastes, persuasions and preferences: somewhere, anywhere, there is an artist to fulfil demand. I have been speaking with an artist who stands on her own feet. Cat Turner tells me about her new single, Waster, and her E.P., Contrast; what we can expect in terms of gigs – how visuals and images link to her music.

Turner chats about her home in Galway; whether we will see her in the U.K. soon; the sounds she is influenced by; if there are any new artists worth keeping an eye out for; what she hopes to achieve before the end of the year – how she chills away from music.

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

I'm super-tired but very hyped from the excitement of the week. How are you?

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

Sure thing! Well. I'm Cat Turner. I started producing and releasing my own music over the past year. I guess I'd describe it as an angsty Alt-Pop!

It has been pretty cold and snowy recently! Have you been affected by it?! Does it provide you more time to stay in and make music?

Yeah, it's been so cold! I'm always cold, anyway; so this week it’s been lots of hot water bottles and four pairs of socks! Ha. Other than that; I was lucky to not really be affected. I did stay inside for those couple of days but I was finishing mastering the E.P. - so may not have left anyway, if I'm honest.

Waster is your new track. What is the story behind the song?

Waster is an internal battle with myself. Sometimes, I'm pretty harsh on myself and think I hold myself back - and other times, I can see how hard I work and can appreciate that. Waster is those two sides facing each other…

It is taken from the E.P., Contrast. What sort of ideas inspired the songwriting? Was it fun recording it?

I think I'd find it really hard to find one thing that inspired me - because I try and take inspiration from everything that happens around me. Listening to as much music as I could was super-important, though. The recording process, for sure, had its highs and lows: I really challenged myself with this, as I did absolutely everything myself from start to release. It, maybe, made it more stressful - but incredibly rewarding.

I can proudly say the Contrast E.P. is me.

Your music is best described as Goth-Pop. Are there particular artists that influence your own sound?

Goth-Pop! I love that so much…

Very much me as a person, too! When it comes to writing, I try not to be too influenced by any one artist’s sound. But, what really influences and helps me is other artists’ attitudes. I love someone polarising that still keeps doing what they're doing. Very into Tove Lo, Halsey; Grimes and Post Malone at the moment.

It seems like you have increased in confidence and power. Do you feel you have grown as an artist? What, would you say, is the reason for that?

100%! It comes from actually believing in what I do, I guess.

I use to just play keyboard and I hated it. It wasn't what I wanted. But, since learning to produce and changing my stage set-up; I feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be with music.

Your music incorporates visual style and sense. It seems image and visuals are linked to your music. Do you feel it is important to project a sense of theatre and cinema?

I think it's so important! When you deal with everyday emotions and interactions using art; I think that, in itself, is so theatrical. The visuals feel like a natural accompaniment to the music. I like to also make my visuals myself. I have some things ready to be released at the moment that are visually odd (but very me).

Galway is where you are based. Is there a music scene over there? How easy is it getting gigs and attention?

Yeah! The vibe in Galway is the best. Almost any night of the week, you can discover some new music by (just) leaving your house. I've played a couple of gigs here and they've been so great. The audience, here, really wants to listen.

Hoping to play more soon…

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

Well. The E.P. comes out this week and, after that I'll, for sure, be playing. Keep an eye on my socials for updates on that!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Hmm. Take over the world? Ha. Well; this E.P. was a huge achievement - although I do hope to have some more releases this year. I want to live on the road really!

That's the dream.

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

One that sticks out in my mind was a couple (actually, they weren't a couple - which kinda made it) dramatically kissing and realising the mistake they'd made while I was playing a super-sad song. I love the idea of people having real moments to my music.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

There are no rules!

People will tell you there's a right way to do things, but it's only right if it's what you wanna be doing. Make sure you're who you want to be first - and don't think you have to be like any other artist.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yas! One of my best mates, HOST, is just about to release her first single and it's soo good! She also makes her own stuff - and I can promise you there's so much more good music to come.

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

I think I'll have a little more breathing room now, but I generally like to spend all the time I can on music. I like to keep busy as much as I can, but unwind time is generally T.V., drinks or (just) chatting with my mates.

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).

Ah! So hard to just pick one song...but I'm gonna go with MGMT's new song, Me and Michael. Currently obsessed!

_______

Follow Cat Turner

Official:

https://catturnerofficial.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/CatTurnerMusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/catturnermusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/catturnermusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/catturnermusic/

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Seán McGowan

INTERVIEW:

Seán McGowan

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WITH a song like Off the Rails in the ether…

it was about time I had a talk with Seán McGowan about things in general! He chats about his music tastes; the inspiration behind his new song; what we can expect from the upcoming album, Son of the Smith – what advice he would provide new artists.

McGowan discusses working with Sam Duckworth (Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly); which new artist we should check out; what he did when bad weather struck recently – ending the interview with a great song choice!

________

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

Hello! Not too bad, thanks. It's been cold and snowy but very lovely. 

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

I'm Seán...

It has been pretty cold and snowy recently! Have you been affected by it? Does it provide you more time to stay in and make music?

Yeah - I got the night off work! I mean; I should definitely have been doing that. But, really, I was playing FIFA and watching Godless on Netflix! 

Off the Rails is your new track. Can you talk about its story and background?

Off the Rails is about a house party from a few years ago. It's a shout-out to my pals who I love dearly - and how they keep me grounded and sane! 

It is a raw and urgent track. What was it like recording the song? Did you get it down pretty quickly?

Yeah - it was the easiest of the album to track.

It was never gonna be on the record, originally - then it ended up being the first single. But, yeah, we tracked it live; overdubbed a few parts - then I shouted me head off for three mins! 

Son of the Smith is out on 11th May. What themes inspired your debut album?

Everything around me, really. The same stuff that influences and inspires everyone, I would have thought.

Calling it how I see it and telling stories... 

Do you have a favourite song from the album? Which one made the biggest impact on you?

There's a song called Sprinhill which took me six years to write. That one's special to me. 

Sam Duckworth (Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly) is part of your band. How did you meet him? How did your band come together?

Sam's not in me band - but he did produce my album.

Sam slid into my D.M.s on Twitter many years ago to ask me to do some backing vocals for one of his albums. I've considered him a best friend ever since, to be honest. My band is made up of my pals. My drummer, Mike, works in the same gaff as me. Deano, on guitar, has been a best bud and played with me for years. Jay, on bass, engineers our records and was definitely the missing component.

We're four very different people - but I think that's why we have such a laugh. 

Which musicians did you grow up around? Were you raised in a musical household?

Billy Bragg, The Clash; The Jam, The Pogues; The Specials - all of those bands. My folks aren't musical themselves, but they've got good taste! Also, every family party in Ireland ends up in a sing-song.

So; I reckon that would have influenced me a lot! 

You have a busy gig schedule coming up. Which dates are you most looking forward to?

I'm looking forward to them all, genuinely. I love this job. In Dublin, I'll be catching up with cousins, which will be great. I love Berlin, too, in particular. 

Do you love being on stage? How important is it getting that instant reaction from the crowd?

Yeah, it's the best bit. Everything outside of performing has the capacity to be stressful. But, when you're up there you're in control of everything - and having a laugh whilst ya do it! 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Just more touring, really. I try not to set too many targets to avoid disappointment. Haha. 

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

Singing A New England with Billy Bragg! 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

TOUR - it's where you learn everything…and always be nice to everyone. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Anna's Anchor

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Anna's Anchor! He's supporting me on my Irish and U.K. run! 

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

It's a twenty-four-hour-a-day job, for sure. You're always thinking about something music-related. I like FIFA and Netflix - and pub with pals is always a giggle! 

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).

Tom Waits – Rosie, please! 

_______

Follow Seán McGowan

Official:

https://www.musicglue.com/seanmcgowan

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/seanmcgowanuk

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/seanmcgowanmusicuk

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/seanmcgowanuk

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4Nc0bSHOyLhc10qbLmjPqZ

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_sXThydUA9GxcG3ZBEpFw

PHOTOS:

Ben Morse

INTERVIEW: 10 o’Clock Chemical

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Will Hutchinson

10 o’Clock Chemical

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ONE of the questions I was super-keen to learn…

the answer for concerned the story behind 10 o’Clock Chemical’s name – whether there was a special reason they chose it. I find out about the band’s debut single, Babylon Is Fallen, and whether there is a political edge; what the scene is like around Stoke-on-Trent (where they are based) – and what tour dates they have approaching.

I discover what sounds/artists drive the boys; the new artists they suggest we keep an eye out for; whether the members get time to recharge away from music; what the band hopes to achieve before the end of the year – and whether there is more material coming.

_________

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

Busy but on-track and buzzing - having some great responses from our debut single.

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

We are a band called 10 o’Clock Chemical: a four-piece based in Stoke and Derbyshire - and we play Synth-Pop, Dance and Rock.

Babylon Is Fallen is your debut cut. What is the story of the song?

It's about letting go of old habits, unveiling truths and the drive for new information. I wrote it a couple of years ago when I was obsessed with George Orwell's 1984 and what it would be like to live in a nightmare Big Brother state - but now, it's naturally become a call to revolt against an increasing control on our activities and words we're not too unfamiliar with in 2018.

I believe you spend fifteen months squirrelled away! Was it quite a relief to get the song out after all that time?!

Yeah, so long. We should have maybe renamed the band 'The Mole Rats!' Relief, yes, but necessary...

PHOTO CREDIT: Mark Vyse

Babylon Is Fallen was produced by Matt Johnson. Do you think his input helped add something special to the song?

We've been working with Matt on a lot of tracks now - and the guy is a wizard. He really brought Babylon' up to date from being a bedroom demo...and taught us a lot about sonic consistency.

Do you get ‘motivated’ and angered by what is happening in the country? What are your feelings regards the U.K. and our Government?

Well. We are four different people with four different views politically (The E.U. debate is a good one at parties!) but I think the main feeling at the moment is, perhaps, confusion. Straight answers are short: everything seems uncertain and the anxiety is causing a lot of friction. It's more saddening when it significantly affects families and relationships - so, I think it's important, as a band, we use our music to bring people together rather than get too caught up in the crossfire.

We are a small island with challenges to come - and we can still be courteous without compromising our individual truths.

PHOTO CREDIT: Mark Vyse

How did the band come together? Is there a story behind the name, ’10 o’Clock Chemical’?

I think a lot of interviewers have avoided this question - in fear of it being an acid reference or something. It's actually much nerdier...

I got the name during a rough patch with insomnia and started studying the process of the circadian rhythm-cycle - at least in the U.K., the latest time for the sun to set on the horizon is approximately 10 P.M...a time, naturally, our brain releases the chemical melatonin which basically signals darkness and, in turn, gets us off to sleep at night. Without this darkness on the surface, we are unable to rest or dream; so it brings a real nice yin-and-yang feeling to the concept.

10 o'Clock Chemical is just another term for melatonin - or n-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine to the chemists...

I believe there is an E.P. coming in June? Can you reveal any of the stories that go into the E.P.?!

Indeed. Every track is pretty much centred on modern social challenges and potential consequences of everything from endless consumerism to entertainment and social media.

It's going to be a conspiracy theorist's wet dream.

Which artists are most important to you? Who do you count as influences?

Muse and Gorillaz are the big boys; Twenty One Pilots are also cool A.F.; then, the later material of The Sunshine Underground. Steel Pulse is one of Danny's Hardcore influences - so there's a growing Dub/Reggae pulse brewing in some of our contemporary material - which could start seeing the light of day soon also.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

Tour dates to be released soon!

IN THIS PHOTO: Bishop Briggs

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

One girl I can't keep off at the moment is Bishop Briggs. Her voice is soaring I believe she supported Coldplay on their last tour. Another cool dude we know is Youngr: truly a multi-talented genius in Electronica at the minute.

What do you each hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

Recognition and to grow our fanbase bigger; accumulated by a big bunch of live shows outside of our Northern domain.

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

Our bassist, Josh, never seems to shut up about the time he danced to a full crowd on stage pissed-up with a pumpkin - but I'm sure he's going to do better than that with the year to come!

Ours, collectively, was probably when we won Best New Artist at the Staffordshire and Cheshire Music Awards last year. Champagne ahoy - and we partied right through the night with that one.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Practice, patience; strategy. Network!

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

We're part of a tightly-knitted community around the Stoke music scene so, if we're not making music; we're more than likely out socialising at other gigs and events. Otherwise, skateboarding/BMX; fast bikes and plotting world domination in our favourite fast food joint, Chunky Chicken.

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).

Rone – Gravity

Dennis Ferrer – Hey Hey

Beastie Boys – Make Some Noise

Sam & Dave – Hold on I'm Coming

_______

Follow 10 O’Clock Chemical

PHOTO CREDIT: Mark Vyse

Official:

http://www.10occ.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Zed_10occ

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/10oclock_chemical/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/10oclockchemical

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/10oclockchemical

INTERVIEW: The Giant Peach

INTERVIEW:

The Giant Peach

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SOME might expect ‘James’ to answer the questions…

but, instead, I get Harrison and Max – members of the incredible Vermont band, The Giant Peach. They talk about their formation and how the music has developed; what one can expect from their album, Pulling Teeth (out on 21st April) – and what they have planned in terms of gigs.

I ask whether they are coming to the U.K.; what the scene is like where they are; how they disconnect from the busy world of music; the sounds they are influenced by; whether U.S. politics has a bearing on what they produce – whether there is a special meaning/story behind their band-name.

________

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

Harrison: Life is pretty busy right now - but things are good. We’ve been running around trying to get the word out about this record; we’re working on new music, we’ve got several shows in the next week and we’re trying to find some time for the studio this spring. It’s always hectic trying to run a band on top of our personal lives – but no complaints.

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

Sure. I’m Harrison and I write the tunes. I got into this all to try and make the kind of music I want to hear more of – familiar songs and stories that you’ve never heard. I realized, pretty quickly, that this is far too big an undertaking for just me - and that’s about when we formed The Giant Peach…

We’re just now ready to release our first adventure together, Pulling Teeth, this spring.

Max: My name is Max and I play guitar. I was along for the ride during the writing and recording of Pulling Teeth - but, also, for everything that went on around it. 'The Peach' is pretty young - but Harrison and I have been making music together for years now...

Harrison: Max really does it all, by the way: he plays bass and drums on a couple of the tracks on Pulling Teeth. The other members of The Giant Peach, proper, are Jacob Shashoua, the younger of the Brothers Shashoua, on Drums; Gloria Breck on Violin and often Keys and Mike Nunziante on the Slide Guitar – he’s currently abroad on the Easter Islands.

Your debut album, Pulling Teeth, is out on 21st April. What sort of themes influenced the songwriting?

Pulling Teeth came about as easily as the name might suggest. It’s a deeply personal story but not one that’s unique to me, I don’t think. I wrote these songs over the course of a tumultuous and ultimately terminal romance; tried to put into them the un-tempered excitement of first love and the inevitable loss of innocence that accompanied its end. We tracked the record ourselves, mostly in my dorm room at Middlebury College (with the exception of Coats, which we did with the wonderful people over at Meadowlark Studios).

We’re very excited about it!

Do you each have a favourite cut on the record?

Used has always stood out to me…

It’s the last song we added to Pulling Teeth. I’d had the melody for years - but, I guess, I didn’t have the words or the experiences to make it right until last year. I finished Used right before facing-down the end of my relationship at the time - and it very much captures where I was.

Max: I love the fifth track, titled (…). It’s a statement of a melodic idea that happens throughout Pulling Teeth in various forms - and it has a mystery and innocence that really draws me to it. When you’re listening to the record the whole way through, it almost serves as an introduction to this sort of B-side (where the record turns a little more inward).

Take me back to the start of The Giant Peach. How did you all find one another?

Harrison: We all met at Middlebury College in Vermont, where we did undergrad. Max and I met my junior year. I was doing a lot of songwriter-y stuff at the time, while he was primarily a Jazz/Blues guy. We hit it off immediately and he really pushed me to develop these songs more. Max and Jacob are brothers. Gloria’s background is as an orchestra musician and classical pianist – I tracked her down after seeing a recital of hers – and Mike and I had been friends for a while. He’s a real-deal Folk musician. He plays with this really amazing, wholesome band, Alpacka (check them out)!

We all came together in service of the songs on Pulling Teeth; trying to bring them to life - and it became clear that we all spoke a common language. We became very good friends: we’re lucky to love one another so much. Of course, there are many, many more wonderful people with a part in Pulling Teeth – even if the music itself is personal, collaboration has always guided the process...

Can I ask about the band’s name?! Is there a Roald Dahl link there?!

It took us a long time to settle on 'The Giant Peach' which, I suppose, does come from the Roald Dahl book, James and the Giant Peach. I’d just had the phrase in my head for years. For a while, we were playing under another literary name, Reader; lifted from Italo Calvino’s If on a Winter’s Night a Traveler (a favorite of ours) but it didn’t fit. We eventually settled on 'The Giant Peach’ just because it feels good – although, I suppose there’s some shared narrative in it: a lonely boy in a bad situation leaving his woes behind and facing down his fears; joining some ragtag bunch on a giant peach?

You’re based out of Vermont. What is the scene like where you are?

Vermont, as a state, is very collaborative and supportive – the music scene is no different. It’s a small but tight-knit crowd and there are tons of really talented musicians around. It is a little isolated, but, that said, it’s impossible not to love this state for how beautiful it and the people within it are.

Do politics and the things happening in the U.S. government compel any musical moments? What are your views regarding Trump and his administration?

I’ve always been too wrapped up in myself to be much of a political writer, unfortunately, but the current political climate in the U.S. has prompted us to re-examine our relationship with valuable programs under threat; this was a large part of our decision to donate half the pre-order proceeds of Pulling Teeth in support of Planned Parenthood (after which point the record will be available for free).

The actions and viewpoints of the Trump administration are a clear indication of how divided we have become as Americans on many levels – as people of varying colors and persuasions, as representatives and constituents, Democrats and Republicans – but I am hopeful that from this we can remember that, while the things we hold in common unite us: it is our differences that make us American.

Which musician did you all grow up on? Can you each remember the first album you ever bought?

I had a long Punk phase - and I think the first record I bought was Dookie by Green Day when I was, maybe, twelve? But, before that; I spent many long car rides with my parents listening to Billy Joel, The Beatles and James Taylor. Jasper Sloan Yip has been a tremendous influence on me as a songwriter since I was in high-school – he has a new record out, Post Meridiem, which is absolutely amazing.

Max: I grew up listening to Jazz. My dad loves Jazz. My first album ever was I Can’t Stop by Al Green. Stevie Ray Vaughan was the first musician who grabbed me long-term. I’ve gone through many phases since then: RnB, Rap and Metal. John Mayer has been really influential to me both as a guitarist and as a songwriter. I think Jacob’s first record was a Dixie Chicks (record) – both that and my Al Green record were gifts from my aunt and uncle.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

Harrison: We have a hectic couple of weeks coming up but, looking forward, our books are pretty open. We’ll be playing a couple of schools and heading down the coast for a bit during the summer - and have some exciting additions in the works. In the meantime; we’re focusing our efforts on promoting Pulling Teeth and making plans to record the next one sometime this spring!

Do you think you’ll come to the U.K. soon? Have you ever played over here?

We haven’t had a chance to make it to the U.K., yet - but, we are really hopeful we will do so in the future.

What do you all hope to achieve in 2018?

We want to come to the U.K.!

This year should be a pretty exciting time for us all – Max and Gloria will be graduating from Middlebury; I’ll be entering my second year of grad school; Jacob’s starting his math major…

Things are going to be shaking up a bit. But we’re excited to keep making music together.

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

I have to say getting the masters for Pulling Teeth back was pretty exciting for me. Almost all these songs were born too late at night in my bedroom; just me and an acoustic guitar so, to finally hear them brought to life by all the wonderful folks that worked on this record, was overwhelming. These are really personal songs; so it’s always gratifying when someone can find some familiar feeling or some part of themselves in my music - and then breathe their own experience into it.

Max: Our first show together was a big one for me. I know Jacob feels the same: he always talks about this moment where we were all facing one another and rocking out. It was a kind of excitement I haven’t quite gotten back yet. We recently played the same venue again and it felt very different.

Still fun, but different.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Harrison: For songwriters; this is something I wish I’d learned earlier...

There is no flash of inspiration or divinity in the pursuit of art: those happy mistakes that turn into something special are a numbers game - and they happen a lot more the more music you make. But, you have to show up for work...

You’re going to write a lot of bad music - don’t be afraid to do so. You might make a mistake in one song that works in another down the line. You have to ruin a lot of songs before you can get it right. Also; sometimes it will be frustrating and difficult - and I don’t know that that ever goes away.

It’s worth it though, I think.

Max: Trust the process, trust yourself and trust your music. Trust that what you’re doing is good.

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

Harrison: As a band; we spend a lot of our time cooking and eating together, drinking whiskey. It’s always important to spend time with the people you love. We’re all pretty voracious readers. I’m reading White Teeth right now at Gloria’s suggestion - and we like to keep active.

Jacob loves skiing.

Max: After a long day of music; there’s nothing like some more guitar to help unwind. There’s always more to explore…

Harrison: We once played for six hours at a private party (we were having so much fun). Afterwards, everyone was dancing and partying late into the morning; lights off, furniture pushed against the walls. People were yelling, Jacob was going wild on the dancefloor - and Max was sitting in the corner, playing Bach inventions on an acoustic guitar.

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).

Harrison: How about Fake Hawaii by Public Library Commute?

Max: Longer Than a Day Without You by Munro the Band

Gloria: Mora by Alpacka

Jacob: New Friends by Pinegrove

_______

Follow The Giant Peach

Official:

https://www.thegiantpeachband.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thegiantpeachmusic/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thegiantpeachmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/thegiantpeachband

INTERVIEW: RÓSA

INTERVIEW:

RÓSA

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I am excited about everything RÓSA…

put out there. The L.A. band talks to me about their latest jewel, Nightmare, and the inspirations behind their E.P., The Taste of Another. I find out how the music came together and the sounds that inspire them; how certain decades inspire their music; whether Trump’s presidency impacts the way they write – and whether they are coming to the U.K. soon.

I ask about the L.A. scene and how they unwind away from music; if they have a favourite memory from their careers so far; whether there will be more singles coming up – what advice Will, who helms the questions, would give to new songwriters emerging.

______

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

We are RÓSA. We are a band from L.A. and we make synth-driven Pop music. I am the singer; my name is Will. Taylor plays guitar and synth and Mike drums and engineers (and produces our music).

They are my best friends. 

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

Nightmare is a song about regretting the past and feeling uncomfortable in a place where something significant had happened. This, in particular, was something I experienced vividly in the downtown area of my town. 

It is from the upcoming E.P., The Taste of Another. Are there consistent themes that run through the E.P.?

The only consistent theme is love and our relationship with regret - and deriving meaning from the past. 

Will there be more songs released from the E.P.? Maybe, a video for Nightmare?

No video for now - but the E.P. does have two additional songs that are also great.

It seems like the 1980s – and a certain vibe – is influential to you. Is that the decade/type of music you all gravitate towards? What kind of stuff were you raised on?

We were actually raised on older stuff from the 1960s and 1970s. We just love the sounds from that era. 

How did RÓSA get together? When did you all meet?

We met a religious conference in San Diego and talked music and just went for it - and here we are today.

California is where you are based out of. How important is the city and its people to you?

The L.A./O.C. area is huge for us. We love being from here. L.A. is inspiring and challenging and O.C. is comfortable and fun. It’s all cool.

Do you, as a band, react to what President Trump is doing to the nation? Do his decisions compel any songwriting at all?

We react, for sure. We talk a lot about the political climate. It doesn’t influence our writing, however. We work in the interpersonal realm. Political commentary is excessive in my opinion. Especially from people who don’t know sh*t...

Like most musicians.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

We just headlined The Satellite in L.A. We have no wider touring planned currently. 

Do you think you’ll ever come to the U.K.? Do you listen to British music at all?

Yes. We, for sure, will get to the U.K. and we love British artists. We love Adele - does that count?! 

What do you hope to achieve, as a band, in 2018?

We hope to write everybody’s favorite album. 

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

Our headline set at itsaschoolnight in Hollywood was really great. We all jammed and had fun.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write a sh*t-ton of great music before you do anything publicly. Play shows before you put music out. Don’t listen to anyone but yourselves about your music. 

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

We unwind with our girlfriends. 

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).

Will: People to Go by Strange Names

Tay: If the Car Beside You Moves Ahead by James Blake

Mike: Pain by The War on Drugs 

_______

Follow RÓSA

Official:

http://rosatheband.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/rosatheband

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rosatheband/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/rosarosatheband/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/rosatheband

PHOTOS:

Mallory Turner

FEATURE: 100 Songs: The International Women’s Day Playlist

FEATURE:

 

100 Songs

 ALL IMAGES: Getty Images

The International Women’s Day Playlist

_________

TOMORROW is International Women’s Day…

and, in the music community, a perfect time to recognise the brilliant women, past and present, who have made an impact on all our lives. I have collected one-hundred songs from one-hundred female artists/fronted-groups – from the 1940s to the current time. It is a genre-hopping playlist that proves why sexism in music is so infuriating and archaic – a miasma and disease that needs burying for good. I have chosen one-hunred songs because it is a centuruy since women were granted the vote in the U.K. Ensure, however you mark the day, you show your love and support for the brilliant female artists who have made such an impact on music - and will continue to…

FOR centuries to come!

__________

INTERVIEW: Falcon Jane

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Deviio

Falcon Jane

_______

MY departure from Canadian music is brief…

as I speak with Sara May of Falcon Jane. She talks about the band’s formation and their new single, Go with the Flow. I ask about the video: a stunning and personal clip she directed and edited. She speaks about the upcoming album, Feelin’ Freaky, and what goes into it; what tour dates the guys have coming up – and whether they will head to the U.K.

The band select their favourite memories from music; a tune each to end the interview: Sara May discusses Ontario and the scene there; how the band has shaped and grown through the years – providing some advice to new songwriters emerging.

______

Hi, Sara May. How are you? How has your week been?

Feeling pretty-plez T.B.H.! Been a pretty great week hearing all the nice things people are saying about our new track!

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

Sure. I (Sara May) lead a band called Falcon Jane. We’re from a small town in Ontario, Canada. We make what we call ‘Plez-Rock’ music, -which is short for ‘pleasant-rock’. Basically, smooth; chill Rock music that’s soft around the edges but still digs deep.

Go with the Flow is your new track. What can you reveal about its story and history?

Go with the Flow was the last song to be written for our new album. It was created at a time when I was constantly being told (either by others or myself) to “go with the flow”. That’s not really an easy task for me: I’m a bit controlling and very analytical. To move along calmly with the current requires a certain amount of confidence, positivity and trust in the universe.

So; the song juxtaposes this ideal chill attitude with my eternal questioning and worrying.

The video is pretty interesting! Was it good to shoot?

The video shoot was super-fun! It was (just) me and my best friend driving to cool spots around my town and filming me sing a song in cool outfits. Sounds like the best day ever, doesn’t it?!

It was edited and directed by you, Sara May. What was the reason for that? Did you want to put a personal touch on things?

I’ve never felt so close to a song as I do to Go with the Flow. I love it! It feels like my baby. So; I needed the video to be very true to me. I honestly don’t think I would have been able to hand the reins over to someone else to make a video for this one - I would have been such a bad back-seat director.

The visuals came pretty easily to me and I have a background in filmmaking - so I just knew it was something I had to do myself.

Feelin’ Freaky is your upcoming album – the third from the band. What are the main themes and ideas that inspired the songwriting?

My songwriting process is pretty fluid: I don’t think about the songs before I write them.

Afterwards, I can look at a song and think: ‘Oh, that’s about such-and-such’ but, while I’m writing; I’m just tapping into whatever I want to say most at that moment …whatever feels truest to me and I write it down. So, the themes and ideas in Feelin’ Freaky are various. Death is always a big theme for me - so that’s in there a bit - helplessness and fear; love, purity; questioning what it means to be human.

I did feel pretty freaky throughout the process.

Do you feel Falcon Jane have developed since the start? Has the music expanded and grown, do you think?

I started Falcon Jane as a solo project in 2012. I was making weird bedroom Folk music that was crammed up with raw, cheeky lyrics - and it has, obviously, grown quite a lot since then. Now we are a five-piece band making music that’s full of righteous riffs, chill fills and sick licks! The lyrics still weigh pretty heavily and the authenticity in them has remained - but I’m older now and wanna sing about different stuff in a more mature way.

PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Poisson

How did you all meet one another? When did you guys start jamming together?

Falcon Jane seems to have an ever-changing lineup but Andrew (bassist & drummer) and I have been the core of it for the past four years. We met through our guitarist at the time and became fast friends! The rest of the members fell into place naturally: Aidan (drummer) and I met at a summer theatre program about eleven years ago and started hanging out again recently. Branson (guitarist) lives down the street from Andrew and Racquel (synth player) and I had a divine appointment by bumping into each other at a cafe like ten minutes after she bought my first album.

You are from Ontario. Is it quite an upcoming part of Canada for new music? What is it about the area that is proving attractive to many?

Southern Ontario is like the nucleus of Canada.

I’m not sure the exact number but a large portion of our population is here. That being said; Canada is a huge country with a very diverse population. Yes, a lot of new music comes out of Ontario - specifically Toronto - but there is new, interesting; creative music being created all across the country - and it’s so important to recognize those artists as well.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

We’ve got some gigs coming up in Toronto and small towns in Ontario - and we hope to tour western Canada this summer. Come see us:

March 3rd: Toronto, ON - The Smiling Buddha

April 20th: Woodstock, ON - Burnt Brick Café

April 21st: Flesherton, ON - Bicycle Cafe

April 28th: Guelph, ON - Brothers Brewing Company.

Do you think you’ll ever come to the U.K.? Do you listen to British music at all?

We would love to come to the U.K.! We’ve been talking about it lately, actually. Just gotta get everything in order!

I bet I listen to a lot of British music but I’m not the type of person to look into where a band is from: I just listen to the music. I’m always surprised when I hear musicians’ accents in interviews.

What do you hope to achieve, as a band, in 2018?

Fame! Fortune! Success! L.o.L! Just want to release Feelin’ Freaky and for it to be heard by as many people as possible…and start writing the next album, of course.

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

I loved our summertime jams last year - playing frisbee, walking barefoot in the field; laughing a lot and making really cool music in preparation for recording our album.

Rocky: A memory in music that sticks in my mind is when we played in Halifax. It was a magical night with magical people and magical music.

Branson: When we played the Gladstone the second time. It was (I think) our first show as a five-piece and I was like: ‘Holy crap, we just put on a killer show!’.

Andrew: I remember playing at Club Art a few years ago with Falcon Jane. It was fun because our big group of friends just hung out all day and then had a party at Jay’s house across the street. I remember just feelin’ real good about having such cool friends and being in such a cool band.

Aidan: That time I fell asleep at the Handle Bar and Andrew woke me up at the bar.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be yourself, have fun; find people you really jive with and stick with them, roll with the punches; find out what motivates you, feel freaky; go with the flow!

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

Cook food, eat food; be outside in the silence. But music helps me unwind as well.

Rocky: Music can be chill - so it doesn’t really matter if I have time away from it or not but, I guess, like, nature hikes?

Branson: Definitely get time away from music - but to unwind; I guess I’d say playing sports.

Andrew: I never get time away from music because I’m constantly thinking about it, listening to it or playing it. I have a serious addiction...

Aidan: Going on hikes with my dogs; maybe listening to a podcast

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).

Sara: Our Father Star – How to React

Rocky: Nomadic Homes – Hidden Messages

Branson: Billie Holiday – Crazy He Calls Me

Andrew: Suburban Lawns – Janitor

Aidan: Slowdive – When the Sun Hit

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Follow Falcon Jane

PHOTO CREDIT: Andrew Rocky 

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/FalconJaneMusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/falcon_jane/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/FalconJane/

BandCamp:

https://falconjane.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Esme Bridie

INTERVIEW:

Esme Bridie

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IT can be hard juggling…

academic duties and songwriting demands! Esme Bridie tells me about that balance and what we can expect from her forthcoming album, Today It Rains (out on 23rd March). I ask her about her studies and what she hopes to achieve; the artists who have inspired her most – what touring dates she has coming up.

The young songwriter tells me about working with producer Colin McKay and what advice she would give to fellow artists; if there is a standout memory from her time in music; making music in Merseyside – and why knitting has come into her life!

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

Hello! I am good, thank you. My week has been good so far. It’s been a cold one, though: lots of staying inside and avoiding this weather!

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

I am a singer-songwriter from Merseyside - taking influence from classic artists such as Joni Mitchell and Paul Simon.

It has been pretty cold and snowy recently. Have you been affected by it? Does it provide you more time to stay in and make music?

Yeah. I’m currently in Leeds and it’s pretty snowy here! My uni has closed for a couple of days which means I have been able to stay in and write songs - without feeling guilty for not going to the library and writing my essays instead. Haha.

Your debut album, Today It Rains, is out on 23rd March. What sort of themes and ideas compelled the songwriting?

The songs on this album were written over the past couple of years. The themes include love, loss; loneliness, standing up for yourself and hopefulness – so, all the usual emotions you get at twenty-one. Hah!

Is there a song from the album that stands out from the pack – the one you feel closest to?

Hmmm…it’s so hard to pick one…but I think I’d have to say Only Lonely People. I wrote it at a bit of a low point about a year-and-a-half ago - and I just love how this version came out. It’s quite simple with just backing vocals mainly but, for me, the recording perfectly captures the emotion I had when I wrote it.

Shout out to Ellie Rose Smith and Thom Morecroft who sang backing vocals on it!

Colin McKay produced. What was it like working with him on the album?

It was wonderful working with Colin. I learnt a lot from him regarding production and arrangement. We did a lot of the production stuff together in the summer when we spent about eight hours a day on it. It’s a good thing he had some entertaining stories to keep us in good spirits! Even though it was hard work; I miss that time of working with Colin.

It was a unique experience.

I understand Today It Rains was recorded in parts – you were travelling to and from university to your home. Was it quite a difficult album to put together?

Yes. I am currently finishing my degree at Leeds College of Music but my family home is on the Wirral - so I have been very much between the two for a while. It hasn’t been too bad, really. I did have to travel back a lot - but that just meant I had a lot of songwriting time on the train (which is never a bad thing).

You are a young artist but have an exceptional ear for melody! Which musicians, do you think, are responsible for that? Which artists did you grow up around?

I am inspired by artists like Joni Mitchell, Paul Simon and Carole King. More current artists include the Staves, Lucy Rose and Laura Marling. So, I suppose, it’s a mix up of all of those.

What is the music scene like in Merseyside? How important are the people and the environment to you?

I love gigging in Liverpool. There is such a lovely atmosphere there for my kind of music. People will come out to gigs all the time; just because they love hearing new music. It is usually a very encouraging and friendly vibe from the audience and from other artists.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

Yes! I am touring my album in March. I will play Leeds, Liverpool; Manchester London and York. Then, I have a couple of nice Leeds gigs booked in for April - as well as Focus festival in Wales in May.

It’s all looking very exciting!

Is the stage somewhere you love? Do you change your sound – compared to the studio – when you hit the stage?

I always get very nervous right before I go on stage and then, as soon as I’m up there, I just focus all of that energy into the emotion of the songs. I love performing. It sounds a little bit hippy but it kind of takes me out of myself in a way. It is such an awesome adrenalin-rush that, sometimes, it doesn’t feel real. I think that my sound in the studio is pretty similar to how I am live.

That’s what I like to go for when I record, anyway: just trying to capture my natural sound.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

2018 is looking like a very busy year for me! I’ll be finishing my degree and releasing my first album - so that feels pretty big right now. After that; I want to just keep gigging as much as possible, write more and see where it all leads.

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

I played solo at the Royal Albert Hall last November as part of the Music for Youth showcase. It was incredible! That is a very special musical memory for me.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Well. I am still a new artist myself but, from my experience to this point; I guess I have learnt that you have to really love the creative part. You have to be almost addicted to the writing process and the performing - because all the other stuff around it, like the business side, can feel quite overwhelming at times.

However, if you love it enough; it won’t matter and you’ll just keep pushing.

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

I love being creative with my hands - like painting or sewing. My most-recent hobby at the moment, though, is knitting. I have made a scarf - and I am currently working on a patchwork blanket. It’s so relaxing!

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).

Okay. Here is a song that came on my Spotify playlist while I was answering these questions: it’s called The Sweetest Thing by Camera Obscura. I love it. It is so uplifting!

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Follow Esme Bridie

PHOTO CREDIT: John Johnson 

Official:

https://www.esmebridie.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/EsmeBridie

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/esmebridie/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/esmebridiemusic

INTERVIEW: The 27

INTERVIEW:

The 27

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THERE are not many bands…

who can say they have been approved by Beyoncé! The 27 can claim that so, with that in mind; I was eager to learn more about them. Their new single, Tell Me, is out in April and I ask what the story behind it is – and whether they can reveal the famous face who will appear in the video.

They discuss their tastes and whether there is a special story behind their name; what tour dates are in the pipeline; if there is any advice they would offer new artists – if they all get time to detach away from music.

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

Hello, nice to meet you. This week has been good, thanks – or, at least for Henry, as he’s been in L.A. avoiding this weather.

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

Well. We’re The 27. Our names are Henry Parker (Guitar and Vocals), David Page (Bass Guitar and Vocals) and Tom Michell (Guitar and Vocals). We also have a drummer, sometimes.

What can you reveal about the new song, Tell Me? How did that come together?

Well. It’s a song about bafflement and confusion of seeing someone be in love with someone who treats them badly and is in general completely wrong for them; yet, they seem to like them all the same. It was originally all recorded in Barnet at the Next Room - and then an alternative mix was done out in L.A.

I know the video will feature a famous face. Can you reveal who the ‘national treasure’ is?! How much fun was the video itself?

I’d be very happy to spill the beans but I don’t know if I’m allowed to yet. ‘National treasure’ is an interesting description, though. I can and will rule out Judi Dench, Nicholas Parsons and Michael Gambon, though.

Previous visuals have included appearances by the likes of Rhian Sugden – you have filmed at Amy Winehouse’s old house in Camden. How crucial are videos and getting them right?

Well. I think they are very important now; so much so that they are all part and parcel with being a recording artist now. In the past, we’ve always let other people come up with the video concepts...and we've just done what we’re told – whereas, with this latest video, we were much more involved with the creative side.

Is there going to be more music from you guys? What are you working on?

Well. We’re working on more singles and an E.P. which might all get bumped into an album - depending on how well this next release goes.

Your band-name is ‘The 27’. Is that an allusion to ‘The 27 Club’? What does it refer to?

Not really…maybe a little bit.

We were looking for a name and we went through loads of terrible ideas: we decided we wanted something short and simple. Then, we had the idea that it should be a number - as there aren’t so many band-names that are numbers. Then, a friend - who was twenty-seven at the time – said: “How about The 27?”.

It’s a cool number and, obviously, we realised there was ‘The 27 Club’ - which is pretty relevant in music. Also; it was the only name the one or all of us didn’t hate…

Which musician did you all grow up on? Can you each remember the first album you ever bought?

I think we all grew up with Rock ‘n’ Roll to some degree. Also, Oasis and Blur were both in the charts back then - which kind of tied in with that a little. By the time I was at the age where music really mattered in one’s life, downloads had taken over. The first album I was given though was a Monkees greatest hits tape when I was about five or six.

It seems you have a fondness for 1960s artists like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young. Is this period of music inspirational to you?

We’re kinda inspired by all eras of music - which will probably be more prevalent in our latest batch of records. That being said, we are a guitar-based band with three vocalists - and that era is pretty well-drenched in vocal harmony and guitars so, definitely, ‘yes’.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

Well. I’m not quite sure yet.  I think they’re all being confirmed in the next two weeks but, yes; we will be out playing very soon.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Money, success - and finally re-watching all the series of Midsomer Murders.

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

Well. The musician’s life is so well-populated with amazing and crazy memories: some horrifying and some fantastic. Then, to multiply that by three people; it’s really hard to pick one…

I think, for the sake of this article; the first time the three of us sang together has to be up there though.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Well. I’m not sure we’ve really broken through yet: so I don’t think we should go dispensing advice to others just yet. I guess one thing I’ve noticed is that nowadays; everyone who ‘makes it’ seems to have a completely different story and journey…therefore their experiences aren’t going to be relevant to one’s self. Lastly, history seldom repeats itself in the music industry; therefore, it’s always good to take any ‘career’ advice with a pinch of salt.

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

Music is our life and we love playing it.

Therefore, we never really need to ‘get away’ from it. Normally, it’s nice to actually sit back and listen to music - as opposed to playing it. Occasionally, though, it’s good to break open a box-set from a 1980s or 1990s British T.V. series.

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).

Henry: Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl) by Looking Glass

David: September by Earth Wind & Fire 

Tom: For What It’s Worth by Buffalo Springfield

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Follow The 27

Official:

http://the27band.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/the27band

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/the27band/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/the27music/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/the27

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqNYRY_DAmB0ZyB9R1nGKWA

INTERVIEW: For Esmé

INTERVIEW:

For Esmé

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IT has been awesome speaking…

with For Esmé’s front-person, Martha Meredith. She has been talking about the new single, Doubtmouth, and what comes next in terms of material. I ask about her tastes and what we can expect in terms of gigs; whether she will bring the band over to the U.K. (she is based in Canada) – and how she manages to unwind away from music.

Martha talks more about sexism in the industry and how she fights against it; why it is important to create parity; some new artists we need to look out for - and what it was like studying at Queen’s University.

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Hi, how are you? How has your week been?

Hi. My last week was a little nuts since I shot two music videos and released a single, but hey: busy is good.

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

I’m Martha Meredith; front-person and creative director of For Esmé; writing to you from Parkdale in Toronto.

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

Absolutely. I’ve worked on a few all-male teams in the last few years and I kept running into this problem where, when I was passionate about my opinions on things and confident in my knowledge, people seemed to get annoyed. I noticed, in contrast, that the exact same attitude was totally acceptable when expressed by men.

I got to work on these projects because of my opinions and knowledge but, then; these dudes would be mad when I expressed them in a way that was inconvenient to them. I found I had to word things in this certain, careful way to be taken seriously and they didn’t - and I got really frustrated by that.

It is taken from the upcoming album, Righteous Woman. Are there certain themes and stories that inspired the songwriting?

Totally. I’ve always identified as a feminist but, in reality, I’m really trying to dig into what that means in my own life - I ran into a lot of difficult questions. In trying to find my own voice and raise it, I was self-conscious of taking up space as a white woman who has had a ton of privilege in life. I was also in the midst of planning my wedding to my longtime partner and found I was terrified. Not about being with him, but about the attitudes I felt people were projecting onto me about what it means to be a wife.

I realized that, even as an outspoken feminist, I still was applying all this pressure on myself to fit into a certain role of what a woman is ‘supposed’ to be like - and the record is about confronting those expectations in myself.

I get the feeling there is a frustration that stems from years of working for and around men and remaining silent – seen as ‘too confident’ and bold! Do you feel you have been silenced and judged because you are confident?!

In my experience, a lot of men who say they love strong women don’t actually love it so much when that strength is directed at them: when she tells them they’re wrong, really sticks up for herself or knows more about something than they do. I think an equally important part of this conversation, though, is the role women play in this. The pressure women feel to be really accommodating and nurturing gets internalized. I know I have not always stood up for myself with the emotion I felt because I was scared to be labeled. The threat of being called a ‘bitch’ or being told you’re too emotional is real.

While I have certainly experienced being silenced, my biggest hurdle is learning not to silence myself; to stop caring so much about being some perfect (and fictional) example of womanhood. Our culture is screaming toxic gendered ideas at us 24/7 from billboards, magazines; T.V. - and it’s a lot of hard work to shut that out and listen to yourself (and speak your own truth).

There is sexism in music and the world at large. How important is it for female artists to stand up and ensure they are not overlooked?!

I think it’s important to stand up against sexism for sure - and it can be a pretty thankless task. I think too, though, that there is a beautiful movement happening right now. When women really support each other’s initiatives we can change the landscape of the industry and the culture at large. I’ve been really fortunate to be a part of founding the Toronto Womxn in Music community - which we call TWIM. We’re a grassroots organization connecting woman in the industry here in Toronto…and it’s been such a rewarding experience.

Maybe we didn’t have the channels before that: we needed to lift each other up and help each other be heard - and I am seeing that change. The key thing is that the work is never done. We have to keep fighting hard; not just for women’s voices but for all marginalized voices to be heard and celebrated. The homogeneity of the music scene is boring! It’s so much more interesting and exciting when it’s vast and inclusive.

How important was your time studying at Queen’s University? Did study there provoke you to explore feminine anger/roles and channel that through songwriting?

It did and it didn’t.

I studied Psychology and Politics and learned a lot about sexism and feminism that way - but sexism in academia is just as big a problem as anywhere else. My time in university was early-days in my feminist awakening and I think that even though I was working on my feminist ideas, my scope was so limited. I had a lot of blind-spots. I mentioned internalizing things before and I think my time in university involved a lot of discord: on the one hand, I was this confident and outspoken woman; on the other, I still had all this internalized misogyny that I hadn’t confronted yet. I was still trying to be a ‘chill girl’ back then. I wasn’t great at calling people out; maybe because I hadn’t quite learned how to call myself out yet either.

That emotional discord, though, IS why I started writing music - and continues to be my driving force. Writing songs about conflicting feelings is, for me, the best way to get to the bottom of them

What is it like recording and playing in Toronto? Is the city a pretty open and exciting place to be?

Toronto has so much to offer. Sometimes, it saddens me because I think there is so much brilliance here but it always feels like the city has a bit of an identity crisis. We want to be this major international player but we don’t have our sh*t sorted, you know?! All the D.I.Y. music venues keep shutting down and it’s getting too expensive for artists to even live here. That being said; Toronto is home to so many of my favourite artists and the arts community is very enriching. It’s a beautiful scene; full of so much potential and so much great work.

Which artists are most important to you? Who do you count as influences?

Lyrically, I’ve been heavily influenced by Fiona Apple, Emily Haines and Karen O. I love the boldness with which these women show their feelings so unabashedly. Musically, the most played records in my house are Todd Terje’s It’s Album Time and Kate Bush’s Hounds of Love.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

We have lots of things coming up in Canada in the next few months. It’s Canadian Music Week in May and then we’re having a big album launch and what we call ‘the 401 tour’ - the highway that connects all the major cities in Ontario to one another.

Do you think you’ll come to the U.K. this year?

I want to come to the U.K. so bad…and tour Europe more extensively. We’ve had so much support from the U.K., online, and never had the chance yet to come play there. Honestly; I sometimes feel like Europe ‘gets’ For Esmé more than Canada - so it’s definitely one of my ambitions to get over there and play for you!

IN THIS PHOTO: The Highest Order

Which new artists do you recommend we check out?

My favourite Toronto band is The Highest Order - it’s psychedelic Country music and the best thing going. Front-person Simone Schmidt also has an incredible solo endeavour called Fiver. In both projects, Simone shines as the ultimate lyrical craftsperson - insanely intricate, poetic and political. My friends Saxsyndrum (from Montreal) make the best experimental Dance music (sax and drum-based) that makes me want to move so much. I had them play my wedding as a special late-night performance...

Recently, I was super-impressed with Vivek Shraya’s new project called Too Attached and their E.P. called Angry. It is brave and bold and super-badass. The new FRIGS record is amazing, too — Bria Selmena is so raw and real...and it’s super-powerful. Oh, and Land of Talk - Life After Youth!

PHOTO CREDIT: Too Attached/PHOTO CREDIT: Nick Wong

What do you hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

Honestly, to release myself from the shackles of my own perfectionism! I know that sounds intense but I am my own biggest obstacle most of the time.

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

It’s hard to pick one!

I get a lot of joy from performing and a different and equally important sense of fulfilment from writing something new that I am obsessed with. Those ‘aha’ moments are what I live for. But, a pretty magical night for me was when we played the WayHome festival here and we did a surprise late-night show that started just after Neil Young performed. There was a pretty serious dance party from this huge crowd that just sort of appeared in the darkness. Neil and his wife cruised past our trailer on a double bicycle earlier in the day and I was like: ‘Is this real life?!’.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Listen to yourself: not to what everyone else is doing.

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

I read a lotttt. I love to escape to the wilderness and get out of the city whenever I can. I spend a lot of time on an island on Georgian Bay (when it’s not winter).

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).

My pick would be Land of Talk’s This Time. I think it’s so beautiful - it makes me cry, but in, like, a hopeful way, if that makes sense.

_______

Follow For Esmé

Official:

http://www.foresmemusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/foresmeforever

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/foresmeforever/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/foresmeforever/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyWMDJEKC7w15aY1PI_Qjfw

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/4oBLJOYqptZzpDJkR4YKye?si=kaNkek01QiuNbmqhbloVPA

INTERVIEW: Nuela Charles

INTERVIEW:

Nuela Charles

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WE shall make this three…

for Canadian artists of the day! I have been chatting with Edmonton-based Nuela Charles about her latest gem, Do It Right. She tells me about her musical growth and upbringing; being influenced by the Soul greets; working with Rob Kleiner on her latest track – and seeing her album, The Grand Hustle, pick up honours and awards.

Charles talks about the way she disconnects from music; if we will see her in the U.K.; what she aims to achieve later this year; some worthy advice for new artists – some new talent worth a bit of our attention and time.

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

Hello! I’m great, thank you! My week has definitely been exciting for sure.

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

My name is Nuela (new-ella) Charles. I am a singer-songwriter based in Edmonton, Canada - and I like to say that my music could be the soundtrack to a James Bond movie (smiles).

Do It Right is your latest single. Can you tell me about the inspiration behind that song?

Do It Right was written in Los Angeles while I was on a two-week writing trip to London (England) and L.A. We wanted to make something upbeat and catchy and, when we got the title, it kind of just wrote itself after. The title perfectly sums it up: If you’re gonna do it, better do it right! It’s kinda cheeky.

But; I wanted to talk about instances in my life when I’ve had people approach me and totally miss the mark.

You worked with Rob Kleiner on the song. What was it like working with him?

Working with Rob was great.

It was my first time meeting him and I’m so happy we were able to come out of our first session together with an amazing song!

Do It Right has a powerful, soulful sound! It sounds like music stirs passion in you! How important is music in everything you do?

I literally cannot go through a day without music in my life...

If I’m not creating it, I have to be listening to it. I love discovering new sounds and powerful vocals – it’s (just) really inspiring for me.

The Grand Hustle, your sophomore album, was nominated for Adult Contemporary Album of the Year for 2018’s JUNO Awards. What was it like receiving that news?

Finding out I was nominated was an amazing feeling! I actually overslept - so I missed the actual announcement in the morning because of the time difference between Toronto and Edmonton. But, a colleague of mine was there and sent me a video clip of the announcement - so it was super-rad!

Does an honour like that change how you approach future music? Are you already thinking of new ideas?

I’m currently wrapping up my next project and the nomination is definitely an added bonus! I think it helps in how people perceive what one does - when you’re associated with something like a JUNO; or a BRIT or a Grammy - but I don’t think it has changed my approach. My goal is always to create something better than the last time.

It seems like the greats of Soul are idols of yours. Which musicians did you grow up around? Were you raised in a musical household?

As a kid, my parents would play classic Whitney Houston, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder all the time. As I grew up, it was all about the vocal delivery. Alanis Morissette was a huge one for me in my teens – stylistically different, but vocally super-powerful.

What gigs do you have coming up? Where can we see you play?

I’ll be performing as part of the JUNO Festival in Vancouver in March and then festivals starting in June - mainly in Canada and my first in Seattle, U.S.; all of which haven’t been announced yet - so, I, technically, have to wait to give specifics (smiles).

Do you think you’ll visit the U.K. at all?

That is one of the next steps for me. I love most everything musical that comes out of there and, although I’ve been to London a few times for writing, I haven’t the opportunity to play there yet.

Looking to change that with the new music coming out later this year!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

More music. Definitely more music…and a lot more live shows.

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

A few years ago, I was asked to open up for Ziggy Marley in a wonderful seated theatre and it was an amazing experience! We play two totally different styles - but his audience totally took me in and we had a blast!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The one thing I tell everyone is 'know the business and don’t quit'. Because, once you stop, it’s over…and you’ll always ask yourself ‘what if’. My parents gave me two years to pursue music - and that was nine years ago.

IN THIS PHOTO: Tom Misch

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

To be honest; I’m super-late on new artists. I just discovered Tom Misch - his latest collab. with De La Soul is amazing. Rationale has (also) recently caught my attention.

Sam Fender is also a new fave!

IN THIS PHOTO: Sam Fender

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

When I need a break, I like to watch movies. It still keeps me in a creative space but it’s a different kind of creativity and it takes me, albeit for a brief moment, to another place. When I REALLY need a break, I usually take a trip somewhere.

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).

Ooooo; I like this game. I have to, then say: Tom Misch and De La Soul – It Runs Through Me. It’s all about the music!

Thanks so much!

_______

Follow Nuela Charles

Official:

http://www.nuelacharles.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/nuelacharles

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/nuelacharles/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/nuelacharles/

YouTube:

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

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/54l7IHesYhtkP9Dm4jN4Zl

INTERVIEW: Deanna Petcoff

INTERVIEW:

 Deanna Petcoff

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I am staying in Toronto…

as I have been investigating Terribly True – the latest single from Canadian star, Deanna Petcoff. She talks about the song’s origins and what comes next; which artists/sounds inspire her drive; how all the elements (to her latest song) came together – and whether it was hard departing from her band, Pins & Needles.

I learn more about her touring plans and whether she is coming to the U.K.; if she has a favourite memory(ies) from music so far; new artists we should give more time to – if there is any chance to detach from a busy music career and relax.

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

Hi! My week has been wonderful. I just put my song out into the world - so I am very happy.

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

Sure! I am a Canadian musician based out of Toronto and I’ve been playing music for six years professionally. I started this solo project about a year ago with my friend and collaborator, Alex Stavropoulos-Laurie - who really helped shape my sound and vision.

I’m now working on an E.P. and playing shows!

What is the story behind your single, Terribly True?

Terribly True is about the feeling of realizing you’re not really in love with someone you’re seeing and having to come to terms with the fact that you’ll have to hurt them. It’s hard to feel like you’re the antagonist of your own life, but standing by what you really believe rather than what you want to believe is vital in order to be happy. 

There are a lot of elements and sounds working away in the song. Did it take a while to get it together?! Do you think you were vibing particular artists when recording and writing it?

My producer Alex and I spoke a lot about influences and inspiration before we did the demo - including Angel Olsen, Alabama Shakes, and mainly, David Bowie - as he’s one of my major influences in general. Alex knows that my favourite vocalists are 1960s Soul singers and we thought a lot about that vintage quality in the tones and arrangement decisions.

Will there be more material soon? What are you working on?

We are working on an E.P.; still planning out arrangements with my band and Alex. We want the record to reflect my style and have the emotional honesty that I strive for in delivery and production.

Your solo career stemmed from the disbandment of Pins & Needles. Was it hard seeing the band break? Was it difficult transitioning to life as a solo artist?

I think, because the band broke up amicably, it has been an easy transition for me. It will always be strange playing without my girls: they’re my best friends and playing shows with them for five years was the best thing anyone could ask for. Having the support of my bandmates has made everything better – and, similarly, I support all of them in their endeavours.

It seems you have eclectic tastes! Which artists did you grow up around? When did music come into your life?

I definitely do have broad tastes: everything from Billie Holiday to Brockhampton influences me. For me; if I can feel authenticity or true honesty in the music, any element of the music, I’m drawn to it. I grew up around a lot of Classic Rock from my dad: major influences like Queen, Prince and The Rolling Stones; as well as music that’s important to my mom like Frank Sinatra, Todd Rundgren and Carole King.

Music was around me for my entire childhood: it felt like a natural progression into creating it myself.

What gigs do you have coming up? Where can we see you play?

I am playing April 2 at The Smiling Buddha in Toronto and there again May 27th. I’m currently solidifying more dates for in between there - and as well for the summer.

Do you think you’ll visit the U.K. at all? Have you ever been over here before?

I have never played in the U.K. but I am itching to! I hope to make it over there in the next year or so!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

My goal for 2018 is to put out my E.P. and play as many shows as I can - to make sure the set and the record are everything they can be. With the help of my band-mates Callum Maudsley, Julian Psihogios and Dylan Burett, as well as my producer Alex; we’re hoping to push this project as far as we can go in the next year.

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

Probably one of the best experiences of my life was playing the Canadian festival Field Trip three years ago with my band, Pins & Needles. It really felt like a life goal completed and I hope to play more festivals as time goes on. Honestly, though; all of my experiences with Pins & Needles were memorable - and that time of my life is something I cherish dearly.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Get connected with local artists through going to shows and joining a collective! Keep working with people that can challenge you and help you become a better artist. Working unopposed is unproductive and, especially when you have a community of artists, it’s so important to stay together and help each other.

IN THIS PHOTO: Luna Li/PHOTO CREDIT: August Kay Photography 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes! Check out Luna Li, The Beaches; Hex, Casper Skulls; Weaves and Language Arts! These are all Canadian superstars!

IN THIS PHOTO: The Beaches/PHOTO CREDIT: Maya Fuhr

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

I love hanging out with my friends and my family when I’m not making music. My roommate and I host a lot of parties at our house - and we like to surround ourselves with people we love and admire as much as humanly possible.

Toronto seems to be one of the fastest-growing centres for new music. Do you think there is a reason the Canadian city is so popular and productive?

I think there are some really good collectives and labels making huge efforts in Toronto right now to bring young people into the music scene. Places like Girls Rock Camp Toronto are really trying to inspire the younger generation of women and female-identifying youth to play music and get their voices out there…as well as record labels like Buzz Records and Royal Mountain; as well as Fried Records - who actively cultivate local artists.

The sense of community is really strong here - and it’s only going to get bigger.

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).

Breaking Glass by David Bowie! One of my favourite tracks of all time

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Follow Deanna Petcoff

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/deanna_petcoff

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/deanna-petcoff

YouTube:

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

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/40wJiyTgK3egckAlDOp1ea

PHOTOS OF DEANNA:

Sabrina Carrizo Sztainbok 

INTERVIEW: Cubs Refrain

INTERVIEW:

Cubs Refrain

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I have not been to Canada too much the past couple of weeks…

so it is about time I made a return! I have been listening to and chatting with Cubs Refrain. Jordan and Erin discuss their new single, When It Started, and their forthcoming album, Tell Me You Love Me; how they got started and whether there are tour dates planned – and whether a visit to the U.K. is a possibility.

I was keen to know what the scene is like in Canada and why Toronto is so up-and-coming; if they get time to chill away from music; whether they had eclectic musical childhoods; how important it is to gig and keep musically active in Canada – what Cubs Refrain hope to achieve as we head further into this year.

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

We’re great, thanks. It’s been a crazy week of work and exams, mixed in with the release of When It Started and then, to top it off; we played our first show on Saturday. We feel like it’s been pretty productive, though.

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

We are an indie Synth-Pop duo from Toronto that plays a mix of sounds - kind of like a mash-up between CHVRCHES, M83 and Oh Wonder. 

When It Started is your new single. What is the story behind that track?

Erin: The song came together when we decided to write a concept album, which centres on two young characters navigating their first romantic relationship. I wanted to write a song that would describe their first experiences together; when exhilaration and adventure are at a high. I channeled many personal memories from my adolescence into the song; experiences shared with friends and from early relationships that involved anything that would get us into trouble - as well as feelings of insecurity I held on my own.

I really wanted to make the song about the characters learning to share parts of themselves, mixed with the wild sense of urgency and false confidence that youth tend to hold.

It is taken from the forthcoming album, Tell Me You Love Me. Is there a narrative and story that runs through the album?

Yes. Tell Me You Love Me is a concept album and story that we developed over the past two years. We wanted to play off of the nostalgia of young love - which is a theme that some of our favourite albums revolve around. It follows these two teenagers who fall in and out of love, experiencing the highs and the depths of their emotions as they learn about themselves and about each other.

We made the decision around the time the album was mastered to only distribute physical copies in 12” vinyl. We wrote an album that was meant to be heard from top-to-bottom and we felt that the only format to do that justice was vinyl. There’s also a real nostalgia and romanticism to vinyl - and we felt that it was a great parallel to those themes we played off of when writing the album.

What was it like recording the record? Did the songs come together quite naturally?

We actually put the entire album together ourselves... 

We wrote quite a lot using soft synths originally (actually, it started to be very e-piano/clav-driven) and then fell in love with the warmth of the analog hardware synths. Once we got a hold of a few good synths, our sound really transformed into what is heard on the album. 

We recorded all of the synths, vocals and other instruments ourselves in Jordan’s apartment in Toronto. He rented a three-bedroom apartment with a buddy and used one room as a studio. That’s also where Jordan did all of the editing and mix for the album.

We worked on the story and the songwriting a lot. Things really started coming together when we began to storyboard our characters and understand them and their emotions. It really helped the music flow in a natural way. Being so narrative-driven; we feel as though we would not have realized the story as well if we had not fleshed out these characters as thoroughly as we did.

How did Cubs Refrain come together? Is there a story behind that name, too?!

Jordan: We actually started the band unofficially when I was working in British Columbia and Erin was working in Spain. I had a vision for a sort of down-tempo Electro/R&B-type group (basically Oh Wonder, but heavier Electronic) and I really wanted Erin on board to sing. I knew she had a background in keys and a killer voice; so I put together some demos to try out - which we thought had a lot of potential. We both ended up in Toronto around the end of 2015 and started to work on our sound more seriously.

Erin: When I think of how we started; I always think of a festival that we went to with a big group of friends that first summer. We were so inspired by the artistry and atmosphere that we started thinking, ‘maybe we could actually make this work’. I think that’s when we decided to seriously go for it.

In terms of the name, we agreed early on that we’d let others interpret that the way they want to. What we will say is that part of it means something important to each of us.

What sort of music did you both grow up around? Did you have eclectic backgrounds?

Jordan: I grew up listening to a lot of Classic-Rock, Punk; Blues and Folk. Oddly though, in high-school; I had a pretty big Classical and Metal phase (roughly at the same time). I didn’t ever listen to much Electronic music - so the transition into an (essentially) entirely synth-based genre was quite a shift. I am definitely much more open and listen to many more genres of music than I did when I was young.

Erin: Being the youngest in my family, I’d say I was pretty impressionable - and took recommendations from anywhere. I was exposed mostly to Folk and Rock early on and, later, I got more into Pop-Punk and Alternative Rock. My playlists were always all over the place, though, with random artists from Mozart to Duran Duran; 1980s New Wave synth-pop hits were the best feel-good tunes.

Toronto is thriving in terms of its music. Why is it such an appealing place for musicians, would you say?!

Toronto is incredibly diverse and that’s likely a huge reason why it appeals to musicians. There is a taste or a scene for all types and you can reach a lot of people without actually going too far. It’s a great city to experiment in: probably one of the most forward-thinking cities, musically.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

We’re hoping to tour a bit in the summer and into the fall throughout Eastern Canada; so, for anyone in the area, look out for those dates!

The big gig we’re focused on right now will be our album release-show - which is tentatively set for early-mid-April.

How important is it to gig and play in Canada? Do your live performances sound very different to studio-recorded music?

It’s huge. So much of your reputation is based on your live show. We’re fortunate to have such supportive friends, family and fans spread out across Ontario. We think it’s important that we establish a strong foothold here. This album has a lot of implicitly-rooted sentiments that we think are felt pretty strongly in Canadian youth - so there’s a lot of potential for it to really resonate here.

As for our live shows; we definitely try to maintain as much of our sound as we have on the record. We have all of these fantastic synths that are so powerful. It’s an incredible thing to hear when they’re all playing together. It’s the type of sound that we’d want to hear live out of bands in the same genre. We remember being absolutely blown away by CHVRCHES’ sound the first time we saw them play: it was the sound we wanted to try and emulate in our own way.

Do you think a U.K. visit will be on the cards? Have you played here before?

We’ve never played in the U.K., although we’d absolutely love to and hope to in the near-future. The musical climate in the U.K., Canada and Australia seems to be very similar - and has a lot of great Indie artists producing some incredible music. We think the U.K. is a great market for us to try and reach - and a tour would be an awesome way to introduce ourselves.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Right now, our main focus is on releasing the album.

It’s been a long time coming for us and we’re extremely excited for it to finally be heard as a whole. As we mentioned previously, we’re going to continue to gig here in Toronto and, hopefully, line up a tour in the fall. By the end of 2018, we’d really like to have a broader, foundational fanbase and be poised for a big summer of festivals in 2019.

Hopefully, all our vinyl will be sold by then… 

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

Erin: I had the best time in university playing with my band at the time, Sloths in Denim. It was a pretty relaxed group: we did mostly covers but we just had a lot of fun together. We played a few shows and faced off with Jordan's band in a bit of friendly competition. It's exciting to look back on that and compare to where Jordan and I are now with Cubs Refrain.

We've put so much into the front-end of our original music - so we're just getting into gigging again now…and I'm getting pumped...because that's my favourite part.

Jordan: There are too many to count: music has been such a huge part of my life. We (Cubs Refrain) recently played our first show together and I remember actually being startled by the power and ferocity of our synths. It was the first time I heard us play at full-volume through the venue mains and it was actually a bit scary. These synths are crazy-powerful but an absolute dream to pla (It’s kind of what I’d imagine setting off a big explosion would be like).

An awesome thing to behold - but a power to wield very carefully.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Your work ethic has to be relentless and more than just on your music (which also has to be very good). The more artists we meet, the more we realize that you have to learn to wear all hats at all times. It extends beyond music into marketing, advertising; social media, production; web design, graphic design - the list goes on. Point being; if you can learn these skills and be really effective with them, then you’ll have an easier time building your brand. 

With all that said; patience is key - even if it means working a full-time job and doing music on the side for a while. To give you an idea; Erin is currently working full-time as a civil engineer and, until Jordan left his job (to finish the album and go to school for Audio Production), he was working full-time as a mechanical engineer.

A head-first dive into the life of a working musician is the dream - but it’s not always realistic.

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

Jordan: Essentially, none. Haha. I’m currently at school for Audio Production at a private college in London (Ontario) called OIART (Ontario Institute of Audio Recording Technology); so I’m working on music/sound projects full-time - about six days per week. Any other free time I have, I’m working on stuff with Cubs.

Erin: I’d really love to spend more time on music, actually, but I work nine-five and spend almost every other moment focusing on the band as is. I don’t allow myself much time to chill and I’m trying to change that. Incorporating little things into my routine like meditation and yoga has helped recently.

But, when I can otherwise; I like to unwind by spending time with friends and family - whether it’s at home, at the bar or on some weekend trip out of the city.

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).

Jordan: Daytona/Fever by Roosevelt. Technically two tracks - but they run seamlessly one into another (If you have to choose only one, use Fever).

Erin: Time to Dance by The Jezabels

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Follow Cubs Refrain

Official:

http://cubsrefrain.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/CubsRefrain

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cubsrefrain/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/cubsrefrain/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/cubs-refrain

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/cubs-refrain

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6KibUqSwBOyTrLxj0u1nKn

LIVE PHOTOS:

Shay Markowitz

INTERVIEW: BRIDGE

INTERVIEW:

BRIDGE

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THINGS are really looking up…

for the super-talented BRIDGE. She has released her sophomore single, Charlie - and I was eager to discover what it is all about. The Sydney native discusses the scene back home; the differences between Sydney and Melbourne (where she has spent a lot of time); whether we can see her arrive in the U.K. – and who she counts as influential musical guides.

I ask whether there is more music coming and why the record for Charlie had some ‘sticky’ moments; if she has any words for new artists emerging; how this week has fared for her – she ends this interview with a cool song!

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

I’m really good, thanks! The track is going super-well - which is exciting. But, in even-more-amazing-news; I managed to find a genuine Ralph Lauren polo hat in an op-shop discount bin in Amsterdam for seven euros.

Summer, here I come!

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

Hey, guys; I’m BRIDGE. My actual name is Brigid. I’m twenty-three-years-old and I’m from Sydney, Australia. Music has always played a huge role in my life. My dad is a music teacher and my mum is a musician too - and my siblings and I were all brought up learning to play Classical music. I started on the violin at five.

But, we were always encouraged to explore what we were capable of as much as we could and to branch out into other styles! I like to think my sound gains influence from all of these experiences, as well from my musical inspirations like Gordi, Meg Mac and, not to mention, James Taylor.

Charlie is your latest track. Can you reveal the origin of that song?

I wrote this song on my last trip to Germany...

It was a pouring rainy day and I was trapped inside; so started writing. I wrote the song with just a guitar - but the driving drum-beat is something I definitely imagined from the start of the writing process.

You have worked with producer Ben McCarthy. What does he add to the recording process?

Ben is truly amazing.

Putting aside the absolute technical proficiency and professionalism that he works with; the most striking thing about the process was how comfortable an environment his studio was. The space he created, as well as his eagerness to harness all the potential of the song, made me feel like he was a real partner in its creation.

Is it true you had difficulty recording at Sing Sing Studios?! Was that for Charlie ?!

It was certainly difficult at the time that’s for sure!

Sing Sing Studios is, undoubtedly, one of the best studios in Melbourne but, during the recording process, Melbourne was undergoing a downpour of torrential proportion - and the sound of the rain on the studio roof kept on leaking through the sound-gate. After trying our best to work around it; we made the decision to incorporate it into the song - which was a great idea, as it ties back into the day that the song was first made.

Personally…I think it takes the song to a completely new level.

Will there be more material this year? What else are you working on right now?

I’m always writing new stuff and I have a catalogue of new material that I’m hoping to release in the near-future…so stay tuned!

Melbourne seems like a vibrant and fascinating area of the world! What is the music scene like there?

Well, look; as a native Sydneysider, I feel I’d be betraying my homeland if I was too complimentary! But, honestly; Melbourne definitely deserves its reputation. In terms of small bars and live music venues: it’s truly the cream of the crop.

Although, I still reckon the coffee is better in Sydney…

If you had to sell the city to someone: what would you highlight as the main reasons to come?

Shopping, food; culture, tram: I feel all of the stereotypical reasons to go to Melbourne really are the best selling-points!

Did music come into your life early? What got you hooked on it?

Yes. As I said; I grew up learning and playing music from a very young age! I think what really got me hooked, though, was when I started branching out and experimenting with other instruments such as piano and guitar - and writing my own stuff.

That’s when music really became less of a chore and more of a hobby for me.

Which musician did you grow up around? Can you remember the first album you ever bought?

I think the first album that I ever bought was Barbie Slumber Party 2002/Barbie Pool Party Mix, Volume 2 (money well spent, if you ask me) - but mum and dad made sure that my music tastes were a touch more diverse. The Beach Boys and Paul Simon are two that definitely stand out as early loves of mine.

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

I’m actually in Europe for the next year and I’m hoping to play a few gigs here and there - but no concrete plans at the moment. Although, if you chuck me a follow on social media then you’ll be the first to know…

Do you get over to the U.K. much? Will we see you play over here?

I actually played a small gig in Chiswick earlier this year - which was an amazing experience - and definitely one that I’d like recreate at some point.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I guess a top-of-the-charts single would probably be asking too much?!

But, if not that; just being able to create music and, hopefully, play in some cool, off-the-beaten-track venues around Europe.

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

I actually had a pretty unreal experience two weeks ago in Germany...

I’m currently based in this tiny town called Tübingen and I went along to this jam night with some mates at this tiny cellar bar under the castle. I got up and played Charlie on the piano but, by the second verse, I had a whole band of German locals playing along - it was pretty surreal!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Truth be told; I’m still pretty new to the game myself but, if there’s anything I’ve found, it’s that it’s so helpful to connect with other artists - to try and get advice and see how they do it! In actual fact, that’s how I managed to find Ben McCarthy - he’d recorded one of Gordi’s E.P.s (which I really loved) so I managed to get in touch with her and she sent me his name.

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

I sure do!

Music is obviously a massive part of who I am...but I also have a lot of other things I love to do! Travel is a big one - and I love watching a bit of footy.

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).

Mumford & Sons - There Will Be Time

This song is from their Johannesburg E.P. and it’s such a different vibe to their normal stuff! They recorded this E.P. during their tour in South Africa in 2016 - and for this song, they collaborated with a Senegalese singer, Baaba Maal…and the result is unreal.

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Follow BRDGE

Official:

https://www.triplejunearthed.com/artist/bridge-1

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/bridgemusicaus

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bridgemusicaus/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/BRIDGEmusic.au/

INTERVIEW: Rhys Lewis

INTERVIEW:

Rhys Lewis

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THE solo songwriter market has many players…

but few that continue to create progressive and impressive music. Rhys Lewis fits into that exclusive club. I have been speaking with the talented musician about his E.P., Bad Timing, and what inspired the songs; whether he has a favourite moment from it; which artists he counts as idols; how London is suiting his creative and personal flow – what advice he would give to artists.

I ask Lewis whether there are new artists he recommends; how he unwinds away from music; whether there are gigs coming up soon; where he goes from here – how important his fans’ love is.

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

I’m very well, thanks! It’s been cold but great: can’t get my head around this weather! 

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

I’m twenty-six. Originally from Oxfordshire but I been living in London for seven years now - and I’m a budding singer-songwriter! 

Your E.P., Bad Timing, is out. What are the inspirations behind the songs? Any key themes that influenced the songwriting?

I guess, for this E.P., the first two tracks came from the breakdown of my last relationship. It’s all still quite fresh; so it feels weird having songs out there that are so open about it all. Themes of disconnect and loss are at the heart of it - and the sadness that comes with having to sacrifice something you don’t want to give up. 

Do you have a favourite song from the E.P.? Is there one that stands out?

My favourite is Reason to Hate You.

I like that it’s just the song: no production; still quite raw. The lyrics sum up completely how I was feeling - so I’m glad they are still the main focus. I also recorded that one live - so I have quite fond memories of the session. 

The track, Bloodstains, is already out. Has it been good getting the song out there? What has the reaction been like so far?

It’s been amazing seeing the reaction people have had to my music.

People from all over the world message and say that one of my songs has been the soundtrack to their drive to work or helped them through a break-up; or the song they dance with their kids to in the living room. So it’s crazy to step back and realise that my music is playing in people’s lives.

In just over a year, I’ve had 20,000,000 streams on Spotify…which blows my mind. 

How did you get into music? Did you grow up in a very musical household?

My parents weren’t really that musical but my dad had a guitar - and both my parents listened to lots of great music. But, they were really encouraging (of me) trying music at school and, when I picked up the guitar at ten-years-old, that was it: I was obsessed!

Which artists do you count as idols? 

Blake Mills. He’s a GENIUS. You only need one... 

You are situated in London. Do you draw any energy and creative guidance from the people? Is it the best place to be for an ambitious musician?

I’ve definitely been affected by living here. One of my songs is about the bittersweet relationship I have with living here. One the one hand, there’s so much going on and it’s a very creative place; on the other, it’s crowded, expensive and creatively draining...! I don’t think it’s essential that you live in London as a musician: there are some great cities in the U.K. that have an equally-exciting musical community.

It’s just important that you find a place that inspires you to do your best work and maybe a place that promotes collaboration and creativity. If you’re making something exciting and shouting about it; the industry heads will find you wherever you are. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Jade Bird

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jade Bird, Lewis Capaldi; Freya Ridings, Jalen N’Gonda; Franc Moody, Dermot Kennedy and Lily Moore. There are so many at the minute: I could go on for ages!

IN THIS PHOTO: Freya Ridings

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

I’m on tour in Europe in April - and then doing a small U.K. tour at the start of May! 

What do you hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

I try not to set too many goals: I (just) aim for each year to be better than the last. So, releasing more music, playing bigger shows; passing my driving test and seeing my family more are all part of the plan for 2018!

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

Playing a sold-out show in Amsterdam to 600 people at the end of my European tour was definitely one of those pinch-yourself-moments. My family and friends were there too - so it was a special gig!

How important is the support of the fans and the love you get online? Do they motivate you to reach high and push on?

You know what; I never thought I’d say this but having that connection with fans really does inspire you and motivate you to do better. Especially when you’ve met a lot of those people on tour after a show: their words of encouragement and support really go a long way - and remind you that there are people out there that enjoy the music you’re making. Sounds cheesy, but you put your heart and soul into creating music and then labels - and whatnot - judge it based on streams and data.

So nice to have a connection with the people that judge it for what it is: music. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write or play or practice or study every single day. Focus on making music that excites you, because if it doesn’t excite you, it won’t excite anyone else. Obviously, social media is important but you can’t truly build a lasting following without good music - so let that be the thing that comes first.

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

I don’t get loads of time but, when I do, I like to play sport and stay active. I recently (just) got into chess, so I’ve been trying to get good at that - I’m still sh*t. Reading is also good. It stops me from staring at a screen - which is the main benefit, I think! 

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Follow Rhys Lewis

Official:

http://www.rhyslewisofficial.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/rhyslewismusic

Instagram:

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YouTube:

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Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4T2k9bgIoC8bbqjqiEl9vZ

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FEATURE: Spotlight: Liv Dawson

FEATURE:

 

Spotlight

Liv Dawson

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THERE are a lot of promising artists…

coming through the music industry at the moment. Liv Dawson is an extraordinary talent who is connecting with so many people. Some of her song-titles might put you in mind of other artists – Deep Purple (Hush); Turin Brakes (Painkiller) and Carole King (Tapestry) – but the work is all hers! Hush – released last December – is the latest song from Dawson and a slinky, sexual number.  I am reminded of the 1990s and the great R&B/Pop coming out during that time. The production is liquid-smooth and Dawson’s command and control is clear. I remember when I first encountered Liv Dawson in 2016. I was exposed to songs like Still and Reflection: even then, the talent and promise was clear. Still is smooth and casual; it has a sweetness but, above all, is that sheer ability from Dawson. The song is more Pop-natured than something like Hush: the mutation and development over the past year or so has been incredible. Reflection reminds me of U.S. artists like Christina Aguilera in terms of tone and accent – the mood and vibe reminiscent of the best from Pop music. 2017’s Searching promises those poppy beats and bouncing electronics; the instant hooks and big vocals. Seeing Dawson grow from 2016-2017 is amazing: the songwriter a little bolder and the songs more adventurous. The biggest change has been from the out-and-out Electro-Pop vibe to a young woman exploring Soul and R&B.

It is understandable Dawson came onto the scene with a desire to write Pop and produced energised, fresh songs. That is what many artists do in order to get acclaim and recognition. For her, it was about following her heart and instincts – people reacted and her music was proffered widely. Listening to something more adult and assured like Hush sees Dawson enter a new phase. She sounds sexier and more alluring; able to elicit shivers and intrigue with the simplest of touches. That relatable and familiar core remains: able to strike the listener and write songs they will understand. Each song from Dawson explores the personal and relationships; heartache and anxieties alongside seduction and passion. These are topics we can all understand and find comfort in: Dawson elevates beyond the obvious and brings the listener into her world. That world, I hope, will expand in 2018. She has just come off tour with Khalid and, if the photos and updates are to be believed; it was a blast and treasured time for her. There is a new single out next week: TALK shows the young songwriter is on a role and in love with music. I am not sure what the single is about but I am keen to review her very soon. It has been a while since I last interviewed her (2016) and there have been lots of developments since then.

2018 has already kicked off and, for Liv Dawson, there have been some great times already. I wonder whether there will be E.P. later in the year. It seems, a couple of years into her career, an album might be right. She has some great songs under her belt and the desire for an album would see her mind create new songs – match four or five new ones with the singles she has already released. You listen to Dawson and she mixes mainstream-ready Pop – with more credibility and talent – with sensuous, rich R&B. She bridges the girl-groups and icons of the 1990s with the best of the modern day. I have been following modern-day idols like Dua Lipa and seeing why they are being celebrated. Dua Lipa, to me, is a bit too moody – it seems to be her persona – and the songwriter too samey and mass-produced. She has just scooped a couple of BRIT Awards: a bigger talent like Liv Dawson deserves more acclaim and exposure. One of the reasons Dawson will have to work harder is the fact she is real and human. That might sound like a shot at Pop artists like Dua Lipa – who are all about commercialism and do not reveal much of themselves – but it is a bigger compliment to Dawson. In an age where fake and plastic artists still have too much say: Dawson is a proper woman who connects with her fans and wants to remain grounded.

She is obviously stunning, but her natural looks and appeal are second to her immense talent as a songwriter/performer. Her fans follow her because she lets them in and ensures there are no lies. A lot of stars are shrouded in mystery or controlled by the record label. They have to carefully think about everything they post on social media and are incredibly measured. Dawson is someone who values honesty and wants to come across as a natural and unspoiled musician. This year will be the biggest one for the London-based artist. She has to entertain the fact there will be festival dates and the hot summer will welcome her in – loads of gigs and chances to get the people dancing! London is hospitable when it comes to artists and, because of that, Dawson will have ample chance to get her new music out there. I feel international dates are the next step. She has come off the support slot with Khalid: going solo and having her own international tour is only a matter of time. Not only is Liv Dawson a talented artist who creates a mix of mystery and appreciation: her personality captivates and welcomes you in. One can imagine going for a drink with her and slopping out by the T.V. watching a box-set. She would make a perfect travel companion and one would easily open up and chat about music for hours.

She is very striking but not too intimidating; ever-friendly and warm and, at a time when we need strong artists to lead the way; an empowered and gutsy female artist who will headline a festival before long. There is sexism rife and rampant in the industry right now. The best female artists are being overlooked and treated unequally. Liv Dawson and her peers are fighting back and create incredible music. The door is open for her and, in a short time, she has managed to create a huge fanbase and capture the critics. That will all get better and bigger as we move through the year. I know Pop music is changing its course and nature. The best artists are producing a more rounded and adult sound; the songwriting is deeper and richer – the overall sound is, perhaps, more introverted and personal. Liv Dawson is keen to put her soul onto the page but never wants to drag the listener down. Her goal is to win as many people as possible and get her music as far and wide – inspire other people and compel them to take up music. It is amazing how far Dawson has come since her earliest day. She gets more confident and passionate by the month, it seems. If this trajectory continues then there is every possibility Liv Dawson will be a mainstream success…

BEFORE you know it.

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Follow Liv Dawson

Official:

http://www.livdawson.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/LivDawsonMusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/livdawsonmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7i8fq2gFSVgPdWVXOlDEx7

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/livdawsonmusic/

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Hero Fisher

INTERVIEW:

Hero Fisher

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A new track from Hero Fisher is always…

reason for interest and celebration. The London-based songwriter talks about Lonely and whether there will be more material. I ask her how her music has changed and whether she has stepped up her game; whether, she feels, the stage is somewhere she feels free and connected; if we can see her tour this year – what sort of music she was raised on.

Fisher reveals what it is like getting acclaim from big names (including Blur’s Dave Rowntree) and what she hopes to achieve this year; how she spends any free time away from music; a favourite memory from her time in music – she ends the interview with a rather cracking song selection.

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

Hi! I’m good, thanks. I’ve been walking around snowy London. It’s looking magical out there!

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

My name is Hero Fisher. I grew up in France with Australian parents and am now living in London. I’ll be releasing my second album, Glue Moon, before the summer. I’m really proud of it and can’t wait to share it with you!

Lonely is your new track. Can you talk about the story and inspiration for it?

I think the song is about warped perceptions - and how our individual perceptions are the only reality we actually have.

Do you think they’ll be a video for the song? You create great and unique videos! Do you have an idea in mind for Lonely?

Thank you! I have made a video for this one. I, visually, wanted something meditative rather than narrative (for Lonely). The viewer just follows me along a drive; seemingly never-ending. It looks a bit like dream and is entirely open to interpretation:

Will there be more material this year? What are you working on?

Yes! We will be releasing a new single soon called Life Through Closed Eyes - along with a video directed by the wonderful Julian Broad.

Last year was a busy one for you. It seems like Lonely brings in new shades and ideas. Was it a conscious decision - to change things up a bit?

I initially wrote it as a kind of songwriting exercise - thinking someone other than me would sing it. But, it sort of just got darker and darker and it ended up fitting nicely in the album. I like to let songs happen organically: songs tend to take a shape of their own. I suppose I consciously make the decision to let the song lead the way.

I just decide whether to release it or not!

It seems you and music and perfect partners. What was the reason for taking up music? Did you feel like it was the best way to express yourself – in a way you couldn’t have done otherwise?

Thank you. Yes, I definitely feel like that! I struggle to talk about my music because I make music to describe what feels indescribable.

Which artists do you count as idols? Did you grow up around a lot of different music?

Yes. My folks played all sorts of sounds around the house as I was growing up. I fell hard for Bob Dylan pretty young - and Leonard Cohen, Billie Holiday; PJ Harvey, Radiohead; Edith Piaf, Nick Cave...

You have courted some praise from some big names. Blur’s Dave Rowntree has expressed his fondness! Is it encouraging realising receiving applause from high-profile names/sources?  

Yes. It’s a wonderful thing to be appreciated by artists I admire so much. I work hard to make the best music I can - so it’s always good to get the nod from anyone really!

Can we see you tour soon? What gigs do you have coming up?

We’ll be playing new songs from the upcoming album on the 15th March at St. Pancras Old Church and at The Great Escape on the 19th May. I hope we see you there!

PHOTO CREDIT: Brett Walker

I have seen you perform and can attest to your skills on stage. Is it somewhere you feel able to communicate fully and honestly with your listeners?

Thank you for coming to a show! I’d be lying if I said I didn’t get stage fright. It’s a real challenge for me - which is why I do it, I think! I’m still learning how to perform and probably always will be. But, when you’ve managed to channel what you’d hoped to and hold an audience’s attention…and made them feel something strong; it’s a magical moment.

I don’t know any other feeling like it.

What do you hope to achieve, personally, in 2018?

I very much hope the album will be loved - and that we’ll be able to tour Glue Moon for a while.

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

I would say recording the album in Monnow Valley Studio is a really happy time in my mind. It’s in the middle of nowhere with nothing but lambs and chickens; fields and trees, a little river running by. The night was so quiet and the air felt so clean.

I love the recording process. When we’ve brought together a solid and inspiring team of people and once we’re on a roll; it feels like a real achievement to have made it to that point!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say don’t try to be anyone else. What will make you stand out is only you; your perception and the way you describe it. Don’t do anything you don’t want to do. Be flexible. Be kind. Be ruthless…

Don’t smash a burger just before a show or you’ll get sleepy.

PHOTO CREDIT: @sonyajasinskiphotograph

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

I don’t really listen to music all that much: I like the quiet. I love to read. I’m really into Shirley Jackson’s writing at the moment. I recommend We Have Always Lived in the Castle.

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).

Joan As Police Woman – Warning Bell

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Follow Hero Fisher

Official:

http://www.herofisher.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/HeroFisher

Instagram:

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

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/herofisher/

YouTube:

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

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2UTLIPgfUhvKa3m0poQrC0 

FEATURE: The Best Original Song Playlist: An Oscars Special

FEATURE:

 

The Best Original Song Playlist

 IMAGE CREDIT: @90AcademyAwards 

An Oscars Special

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TONIGHT is a night when Hollywood’s very best…

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

get out their frocks and tuxedos and take to the red carpet. All eyes will be on the nominations for Best Picture and Lead Actress – which can be discussed on non-music blogs – and which stars defy the odds and scoop the biggest awards. The Best Original Song category is one of the lesser awards that, doubtless, deserve kudos and attention. Over the years, there have been some unwise choices and undeserved winners: Sam Smith’s Writing’s on the Wall (Spectre) and Phil Collins’ You’ll Be in My Heart (Tarzan). In the Original Score/Best Original Score category; there is hot competition indeed! Hans Zimmer’s Dunkirk sits with Jonny Greenwood’s Phantom Thread; John Williams and Carter Burwell are also nominated – for Star Wars: The Last Jedi and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. This year’s Best Original Song finds Mighty River (Mary J. Blige) take on Sufjan Stevens’ Mystery of Love; Remember Me, Stand Up for Something and This Is Me makes up the remain nominees.

Each song is wonderful and adds something incredible to the film. Mary J. Blige’s contribution to Mudbound resonated – the same goes for the other artists listed in the category. Whilst eyes are on all the major categories and hotly-tipped films; spare a thought for those minor categories and the wonderful artists and composers who will not win the same acclaim and attention on the night. In honour of a rather varied and exciting Best Original Song list; I have collated some of the best winners from the glittering and exhilarating…

ACADEMY Awards.