INTERVIEW: J Pee

INTERVIEW:

J Pee

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YOU do not meet many artists…

who have the same skills and stylings as J Pee. He is a unique talent and someone I was keen to speak with. He talks about his new album, Who Is J Pee?, and the musicians/albums who inspire him – he tells me whether the state of the planet affects his work and whether he is compelled by modern politics.

J Pee reveals the story behind his latest single, To the Kids That I May Never Have, and why Eminem is an idol; a new artist we need to throw our weight behind; how important Los Angeles is in terms of its people and vibes; what advice he would give to new musicians emerging – J Pee selects a rather unexpected song to end the interview with!

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

Hi M.M.S.! My week has been wonderful. I spent the weekend in San Jose with my birth-father and his family (I am adopted and recently met my biological father two years ago, so this a pretty new and exciting experience for me and will certainly infiltrate my music at some point! But, I digress (smiles).

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

Absolutely. My name is Jesse Pepe (alias, J Pee), and recently released my debut Rap album, Who Is J Pee? I grew up in Salt Lake City, Utah. I’ve been writing music since my junior year of college. At first, it was a lot of Pop/R&B stuff. For the last five years, since moving to Los Angeles, I’ve done a lot of Lonely Island-type music on YouTube which has done pretty well. The music I’ve written has taken so many twists, turns and iterations but has landed right where I think it was always meant to land, which is Hip-Hop.

In the past, I shied away from taking myself seriously as a rapper because I thought that what I had to say was too ‘out there’: not nearly mainstream enough. I’ve realized that this quality is exactly why I feel so compelled to infiltrate (and, hopefully, be a voice of change within) this genre. I’m excited to bring a new, fresh voice of storytelling to Rap music.

What is the story behind To the Kids That I May Never Have? How did it come together?

They are my own personal opinions of a twenty-eight-year-old man who struggles a lot with societal and biological pressures (which are, sometimes, one and the same). I feel like we as a society don’t question our actions enough - myself included. I’m really trying to dig deeper into my own life and find the source of my thoughts, feelings and actions.

I’ve been spending more time with myself, trying to come to honest answers about certain topics without added societal pressure. I realized that having kids because ‘I’ve just always wanted one’ or ‘That’s just what humans are supposed to do’ didn’t seem like enough to me. Conversely, not having kids because ‘Ew; I hate kids, they’re ugly’ felt too shallow. There are biological and societal underpinnings for pretty much every decision we make and, when you start pulling that thread and unravelling the thoughts, it is the most fascinating thing on the planet.

I’m hoping this song challenges people’s beliefs on the subject and hopefully launches them into their own internal debate on why they do or don’t want children. It’s an important topic to be talking about right now - and an uncomfortable one.

It seems it looks at the modern world and the risks and dangers there. Does the state of the planet affect the way you write?

100%. To be honest, on any given day I feel so much joy, love; guilt, sadness and anger all because of purely existing as a human being. I feel like I’ve been given such a gift to exist on this planet and share it with so many other wonderful human beings. My heart fills with love countless times a day. On the flip-side, I’ll constantly catch myself feeling like I’m nothing more than meat: part of a deep biological system that I can’t escape.

Ultimately, we’re only alive to breed and continue the species; pretty similar to a virus. I feel like the only sure-fire way to prevent the devastation that comes from overpopulation (and we’re already seeing the myriad of repercussions as we speak) is to question our biological programming and ask ourselves if we have the strength to make decisions that aren’t purely dictated by biology. I’m, in no way, saying “Don’t have kids.” I just think at this point, having kids for the sake of having kids; for legacy, out of boredom; because I’m ‘supposed to’…that mindset is dangerous.

Who Is J Pee? is your debut album. What sort of themes inspired the record?

I feel like I spent my first twenty-five years of life not deeply questioning myself, not spending time with myself: I was simply a reactionary human. I felt things and responded. I thought things and responded. I started meditating, I started doing yoga and, as I began to spend more time with myself, I realized that I had been living in a Matrix of sorts; an algorithm. As I spent more time with myself, I started realizing that how I thought I really felt or thought about a certain topic wasn’t always true. I had been programmed to feel that way because of societal pressure, or by a biological default.

I wanted to create an album that represents the new journey that I’m currently on. I want it to feel like you just jumped into my brain for an hour, experiencing the highs; lows, discomfort; contradictions, vulnerability and, most importantly, honesty. Honesty is something new to my life if I’m being honest (pun intended). I’m hoping this level of openness will give others permission to go on their own journey into these uncomfortable human places, without the judgment we (and others) cast on ourselves.

You mix comedic touches with the music. Who would you count as idols? Do you think it is important to mix serious and humorous?

I think Lil Dicky is a game-changer. That dude is (so) unique because he’s so honest about how emasculated he feels in a world that prides stereotypically masculine qualities. Listening to his album was a lightbulb moment for me. But, my biggest influence is Eminem (surprise, surprise). He is a master storyteller. His earlier stuff was so funny, fu*ked up and incredibly honest. His songs have arcs; they have beginnings, middles and ends. They have characters...

He changed an entire genre of music because he was able to take incredibly dark, violent topics and make them relatable. You have to be an active, engaged listener when you listen to his stuff. If you miss a word you miss a part of the story. He crafts his songs in the same way a master comedian like Carlan or Chapelle crafts a stand-up bit.

These guys understand that the majority audience does not want to go there with you because most people don’t like to be uncomfortable. So, you need humour and you need a good story to sever the blow. But, most importantly; they’re going to be more apt to listen to what you have to say.  

I get the sense someone like Eminem has made an impression. Are you a big fan of his music?

Clearly, I did not scan all of these questions before I started answering…

Los Angeles plays a role in your life and music. How vital is the city and its spirit been to you?

The longer I live in Los Angeles, the more I love it. I have an amazingly talented group of friends and an incredible support system. If you are fortunate enough to find a strong community out there, it’s the best thing you could ask for. I’m beyond fortunate in that way. It’s a city full of people who left the comfort of their hometowns to risk something. I love that energy.

I also sometimes hate that energy because it can be incredibly desperate, depressing; competitive and isolating - and there are days where I definitely feel all of those things. The joys of being human!

Will there be any live dates coming up? Where can we catch you perform?

I currently do not have any live show dates coming up. Fixing that A.S.A.P. (smiles).

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

I already have the second album written and plan on releasing it before the end of 2018. It’s a really tight seven-song album that delves into toxic masculinity. It’s super-dark, heavy-trap and deals with a lot of really uncomfortable parts of myself. I also have five more music videos in pre-production from Who Is J Pee? and will start releasing them in July.

I’m trying to on a tour with Lil Dicky or Rich Brian by the end of the year. There’s a lot of work to be done to make that happen, so I’ve gotta keep pushing.  

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

Writing the end of Meditation...

I wrote the last two minutes of that song and I remember thinking: ‘Oh, okay; that’s how deep I have to ask myself to go, every time. This is what is required of me if I want to continue to do this in a meaningful way to myself and to others’. That was a pretty pivotal moment.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Eminem’s The Marshall Mathers LP

It is probably my favorite Hip-Hop album.

Radius by Allen Stone 

I have no idea how Allen Stone is not a household name. In my opinion, he’s the best singer/songwriter on the planet.

Jingle Cats - Meowy Christmas

Someone legitimately compiled cat meows and assembled them to classic Christmas tunes. My mom bought this for me when I was six and I listened to it SO many times. I’m still blown away that someone went through all that work. How did he find all of those cat meows?! Was he sampling?! Does he have thirty cats?! I still have so many questions. It’s genius.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Spend a lot of time with yourself. Do your best to ‘deculturalize’ yourself (is that word? I don’t think that’s a word). In that strange, exciting and lonely place you’ll start to really get to know yourself (which I’m really enjoying, although it’s terrifying). You’ll start to find what you really think, feel and makes you inspired. Do what inspires you. No matter how bizarre it might feel. If it inspires you it will 100% resonate with someone else. The world doesn’t need your art. There are already too many of us trying this.

That isn’t meant to be pessimistic: it’s actually quite freeing. Because, now, you can stop giving a fuc* about what other people want and do what you want; the way you want to do it. But, you can only find that through spending a lot of time with yourself; asking questions; going down the rabbit hole.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Chuck Acid

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently found this Philadelphia rapper named Chuck Acid. He has an L.P. on Spotify called Food for Your Sole. It’s one of the best albums I’ve heard all year. Definitely check him out.

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

Escape Rooms. I’m absolutely obsessed with Escape Rooms.

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).

Jingle Cats – Silent Night. Just so you guys can experience this. It’s MADNESS.

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Follow J Pee

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jpeemusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JessePepe1111

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jessepepe1111/

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jpeemusic

INTERVIEW: Son of William

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Dan Wiebe

Son of William

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THERE is something quite low-key…

and under the radar when it comes to Son of William. Whilst their social media profile is a little limited; the music they are creating is turning heads and standing out! I have been speaking with the Manchester duo about their E.P., Colour of Love, and what influenced the music.

Hayley and Ben discuss Manchester and reveal how they got together; what gigs they have in the pipeline; some new acts to look out for; what advice they would give to upcoming artists – they each pick Folk classics to end the interview with.

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Hi, Son of William. How are you? How has your week been?

Hello. We are well; thank you for asking - we have had a busy week preparing for our E.P. launch.  

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

We are a Folk duo hailing from Manchester - comprising of Hayley Williams (Vocals) and Ben Williams (Vocals and Guitar).

 

Your new E.P. is out. Can you talk about it and what influenced the songs?

Our new E.P. is called Colour of Love. It’s a stripped-back acoustic affair, pretty much as we perform live - with the addition of cello and piano on a couple of tracks. The Civil Wars have been a big influence when writing the E.P., as well as a more traditional Folk and Blues music.

Is there a cut from the E.P. you each gravitate forwards?

Dear Old Acquaintance was a cathartic process. The song is an open letter to someone one of us couldn’t speak to again. Colour of Love is probably our other favourite song from the E.P. That song came together relatively quickly and we found ourselves in an extremely lucid writing process.

 

Are you already working on more material – or do you want the E.P. to bed-in first?

We are currently writing more material and hope to perform some of them at our launch next week. 

How did you get together? When did you start to jam?

We started playing music about five years ago. I was getting guitar lessons from Ben and he was getting vocal lessons from me. There was a natural gravitation into writing music from the off. 

Being based in Manchester; how important are the city and its personality regarding your musical ethos?

The city is extremely important to us - both in its musical heritage and its influence. After living here for a number of years, we both have found the gigging scene to be wholly accepting and versatile for many different styles and genres which, in turn, has allowed us to grow as musicians and hone our craft. We have been able to be musically authentic and have found that we have been able to find our own feet and not had to adhere to certain musical trends. 

You have supported the likes of Simply Red and Chic. How important have those moment been to you?

Ben supported those acts while working as a session guitarist. It was great to experience playing arenas and playing to large crowds - and also have the opportunity to learn from the amazing musicianship in both bands.  

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We have dates coming up in Manchester, Coventry; London, The Lake District and Hamburg at the end of the year. 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We are currently writing for a follow up for 2019 and will hopefully have some festivals booked in by the end of the year. 

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

We have both had many experiences, musically, that have been notable to us in many different ways. One of the most memorable musical experiences was singing for Andrew Lloyd Webber. 

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

Jägermeister, Shetland ponies; chewing gum and hot sauce: we would like to support Joni Mitchell.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t compare yourself to others in a negative way. Don’t give up too easily. Remain authentic. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Janileigh Cohen

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Janileigh Cohen, Jon Kenzie; Alina Ly, Shunya and Buffalo Brothers.

IN THIS PHOTO: Alina Ly

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

Music tends to be our hobby as well as our livelihood. We like to cook, do yoga; run, meditate and play Scrabble with alcohol. 

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).

Hayley: Pink Moon - Nick Drake

Ben: A Case of You - Joni Mitchell

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Follow Son of William

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/SonofWilliamMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/sonofwilliammusic/

INTERVIEW: DeanKelly

INTERVIEW:

DeanKelly

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I have been chilling with DeanKelly…

as he talks about his new work, The MissTape - EP. The Nigerian songwriter discusses some of the ideas/themes on the E.P. and the song that stands out to him; why genres like Afrobeat are so important to him – I ask whether his Nigerian heritage and D.N.A. affects the way he writes and performs.

DeanKelly talks about some of the artists who have impacted him and what he wants to achieve going forward; a few albums that mean a lot to him; what advice he would give upcoming artists – he ends the interview by selecting a great Afrobeat-inspired cut.

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

I’m swell, fam. It’s been great. Thank you.

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

I’m DeanKelly; a singer-songwriter based in Lagos, Nigeria.

What can you reveal about The MissTape - EP? What are the themes that inspired it?

The MissTape, my debut E.P., is something I’ve been working on for some time now and I’m really ecstatic about the reviews...like, a lot of people love the E.P. The E.P. is, basically, about my quest for love (not necessarily true love); love for ‘the now’ (laughs).

While I was composing the E.P., I pictured myself in different scenarios (a club, a street…) where I saw a beautiful girl and making her mine was the only thing on my mind...well, one of the things (laughs). So, these scenarios helped shape the foundation of the E.P. 

It has an Afrobeat heart. Is it a style of music you react to? Does it have a great spiritual importance to you?

Yeah, it is because of where I spent most of my life (Nigeria) I grew fond of Afrobeats and it’s really amazing cus the Afrobeat scene is starting to gain recognition and I’m happy to be a part of it. 

Well; so far, I don’t think I’m spiritually attached to it. I guess time will tell…

You are of Nigerian origin. Do you take anything from the country’s people and spirit for your own music?

Hell, yeah. I infuse my Nigerian origins into my music a lot; from my words to the way I jump on a beat to the instruments used on a beat. The possibilities are endless, especially with Afro-Fusion - when you fuse Afrobeat to foreign sounds.

Was there a moment recording the E.P. that stuck in the heart? Is there a song that stands from the rest?

There are many moments. From the hardship I faced during the period when I was making the E.P.; sleepless nights spent in the studio (laughs) etc. But, the moment that really got stuck in my head was when I was making MonaLisa. The song was inspired by a female friend of mine in an abusive relationship and she wouldn’t leave the guy and it was so sad cus I knew she deserved better. So, yeah, I did a song about it.

There’s a story behind every song on the E.P. To be honest, I don’t have like a favourite song off the E.P. cus I love all the songs - but I noticed I’ve been listening to MonaLisa a lot lately.

What sort of music were you raised on? Were your parents responsible for your love of sound?

It’s funny cus, growing up, I listened to a lot of Céline Dion, yeah (laughs). I remember waking up listening to the likes of Céline Dion, Don Moen; Plantashun Boiz and a lot of music. I’m like this vocabulary of sounds cus I listened to a lot of people growing up (laughs). I can’t list all of them but a few artists that actually inspired me were Chris Brown, T-Pain; 2face Idibia, Wande Coal etc.

Nope, my parents weren’t. I mean, my mom loves singing in the house but she wasn’t responsible for my love for sound. Or maybe she was (laughs). Subconsciously.

Will there be any live dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

Yeah, sure, pretty soon. Just make sure y’all check my site and follow me on social media platforms for more info on that.

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

Yeah. I believe one should set goals; it’s kind of a marker for measuring success. With these goals, one can plan and, with strategic planning, results are as achieved...you feel me?! Before the year ends, I want an increase in the number of people listening to my music. I want to perform at events and have fans singing my song along with me out loud (laughs; *exhales*) - one of the greatest feelings ever. 

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

Oh, yeah. A couple but, right now, the one that’s in my head is (one time) when I was performing and people were bringing out their phones to takes pictures and videos. Crazy.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Jay-Z – The Blueprint III

Wande Coal - Mushin 2 Mohits 

T-Pain – Three Ringz 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep recording, keep working; work hard, work smart and please be humble (laughs). 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Errr, I don’t (laughs). Just go on SoundCloud: there’s tons of talent on there.

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

I watch T.V. shows, movies and listen to more music (laughs). There’s no chill for me right now - I’m always working (smiles).

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

Wande Coal, DJ Tunez – Iskaba. Now, that record is some classic Afrobeat stuff (laughs).

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Follow DeanKelly

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/deankelly_4eva

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Deankelly4eva/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/deankelly_4eva/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/deankelly_4eva

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0mwmgPO6Lc564a0xULcsTr

INTERVIEW: UHURU

INTERVIEW:

UHURU

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THE guys of UHURU have been telling me…

about their single, Thirsty, and what its origins are. Connor and Rob talk about their formation and whether there is a story behind that moniker; whether there is an E.P./more material coming along – they tell me what it feels like getting backing from the BBC.

I ask them what sort of music influenced them growing up and the new artists we need to check out; if they feel they are hitting a creative peak right now; what advice they’d give upcoming artists – the chaps talk with me about their upcoming gigs.

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

Rob: Yeah, really good. We’ve just come back from the Isle of Wight Festival so we’re both a little tired. But, it’s been really good...

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

We are Connor Daniel and Rob Jones; we go by the name ‘UHURU’ and we’re an Electronic duo based in Southampton!

How did UHURU get together? Is there a meaning behind the name?

We met at college in Southampton. We were on a Music Technology course and we got talking. Connor had been making music for a while and wanted to start a band, so that’s what we went about doing. There have been a few different line-ups over the years but it’s been us two for almost three years now.

Connor: UHURU means ‘freedom’ in Swahili. I’m half-Kenyan and moved to England when I was six, so that’s the connection. It’s turned out to be a pretty fitting name as we’ve flirted with a lot of genres through the years.

Can you tell me how Thirsty came to be? Was it a quick song to record?

Thirsty is about a situation I’m sure a lot of people find themselves in. For me, personally, it’s about that girl who can treat you however she likes…yet, you’ll still run back to her no matter what. The recording process can vary: I write and produce all our songs in my home studio and once there’s a decent quality demo ready, we then take it to our pals at Numen Studios to wrap up the single in terms of a re-vocal, mix and master.

You seem like you’re hitting a creative peak at the moment! Where do you get the energy and inspiration from?!

I’m in my studio pretty much every day producing beats. A lot of the time a vocal melody will hit me in the middle of the process and straight away I’ll be humming away into my phone’s ‘Voice Notes’ app. I also have like a million song concept ideas on my phone so, if I’m ever struggling for lyric ideas, I can start from there.

Is an E.P. or album on the cards later this year?

Rob: We’re currently wrapping up our E.P. We’ve got a few more tracks to (just) record Connor’s vocals and mix and then we’re ready to go with that. We’re both super-excited for everyone to hear what we’ve been working on. We still need to figure out a title for the E.P., though. It always takes us ages with that sort of thing. 

Connor: We’d love an album in the next few years, for sure. We’ve finally released new music after two years and plan on releasing more frequently from now on. Yes, it has taken a while but I’m now super-proud of the material I’ve written and produced (that’ll be hitting your ears very soon).

UHURU have gained focus from the likes of BBC Introducing. Is that sort of support and faith important to you?

Rob: It’s everything to us. We’ve always wanted to hear our tracks on the radio, so to have that support from BBC Introducing is really important to us.

Connor: You never quite get used to hearing yourself on the radio! When Thirsty was given ‘Record of the Week’ by BBC Introducing that really meant a lot.

What sort of music did you all grow up around? Do you share tastes?

I was raised on Michael Jackson, Earth Wind & Fire and Chic. As soon as I was old enough to consciously choose what music I listened to, it was all Hip-Hop - and I’ve been listening to Kanye West for as long as I can remember.

Rob: Our musical backgrounds are pretty different, actually. I was raised on a lot more guitar music: The Killers, Arctic Monkeys; that kind of thing. When I started to discover my own music, though, I was listening to Nile Rodgers and Parliament - some more funky stuff.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We’re playing in Oxford next month which is new for us, so we’re excited for that. Then, after that, our agent at UTA has a few exciting options for us that we’re looking into - so, you guys will hear more towards the end of the year. Touring is pretty much all I think about and all I talk about; it’s the big one for me.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Connor: Is world domination too much to ask?

Rob: Agreed. But, if that’s slightly ambitious, a tour would be amazing - and our first Radio 1 play would be a real achievement for us.

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

I think when we played at a Holi One Colour Festival at Wembley Park (London) to around 17,000 people. It was a ridiculously big show, the biggest we’ve played by far, and it was just a really good day.

Connor: That was the only show I’ve gotten hideously nervous for…I’m normally pretty calm before gigs but that one got me.

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

Kendrick Lamar for me…I saw him live at the O2 a couple of months back and he had James Blake supporting him. Kendrick’s live show blew me away and the crowd's energy was mental.

The rider would entail champagne and lobster (the champs for after our set of course!). 

Rob: Jungle for me. I’ve never seen them live but I’ve watched hours of live performances from them and they just look incredible on stage.

A rider is not normally a luxury we get but, if we could have one, I think I’d have to go for a bit of gin and tonic for after and maybe a doner kebab for before - just because they’re Heaven on Earth.   

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Rob: Just keep going. I think that’s what we’ve learnt, I think. We’ve been going for a few years now and it’s had ups and downs but, yeah; just keep going and you can’t really go wrong.

Connor: Practice your craft, whatever it is: singing, songwriting; producing, guitar or triangle...whatever it is, practice really hard.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Zach Said

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a huge fan of Zach Said’s music at the moment. I feel like he’s way too underrated and needs to be madly famous A.S.A.P. I love his writing style: it’s super-blunt and honest and his producers are ridiculously good.

Rob: There's this guy from Tame Impala, Jay Watson. He's got a side project called GUM I'm really into that at the moment. Just really big-synth-'80s vibes.

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

I work as well so I don’t get that much free time but, when I do, I like to spend it with family and friends. I spend a lot of time in New Forest, which is a lovely place, but music always seems to creep in. I’ve always got my acoustic guitar with me.

Connor: My parents mean the world to me and will genuinely complain if they can’t hear music blaring out my studio so, sometimes, I have to fight them to turn the volume down and unwind! I have a great squad of mates too that I’ve known since secondary school. None of them are in the same industry as me so it’s really refreshing after a busy week to go to the pub and not talk music for a couple of hours…

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).

Since it’s the day after we played Isle of Wight Festival, I’m feeling pretty lethargic and chilled. So, I’m going to say Daniel Caesar (ft. H.E.R.) – Best Part. The guy has got the most incredible tone and the songwriting is phenomenal

Rob: I think, following the Isle of Wight theme (I think) I might have to go with The Man by The Killers. They headlined and were incredible last night - and this track is a solid-gold tune

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Follow UHURU

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/UhuruMusicUK

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Uhuru/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/uhuru/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/uhurumusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC3_QLX2C1cd7CBrfoMTKVQ

FEATURE: Sisters in Arms: An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. V)

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms

IN THIS IMAGE: JONES

An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. V)

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I am concluding this all-female…

IN THIS PHOTO: Laurel/PHOTO CREDIT: Andrea Mae Perez

feature by including artists/songs that mix the heat and simmer of the summer. There are some songs that get you a little more chilled and cool you down when needed – a contrast and clash that will nourish the bones and get into the bloodstream. Take a listen to the artists below and let their majestic music get into the head and take you somewhere special. It is a playlist that will get the spirits racing and, when you need it most, take the energy down and…

IN THIS PHOTO: NINA/PHOTO CREDIT: Joakim Reimer 

PROVIDE that gentle soothe.

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Getty Images

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PHOTO CREDIT: Naomi Lee

Freya – Nineteen Hours

FiFi Rong – Awake

PHOTO CREDIT: Lindsay Melbourne

Matilda Eyre – F.Y.A.

Rider - Hurts Me Too

​​​​​​​

Courtney Cooper – Damn

Róisín Murphy - Plaything

Jade Helliwell – Boom Tick

Hazel Iris – Candle

Ailbhe Reddy – Nothing to Doubt

Lauren Marsh – Take Me with You (When You Go)

Sharna Bass - Hit & Run

PHOTO CREDIT: Katie Knight-Adams

NINA – Empire of Love

PHOTO CREDIT: Ebru Yildiz 

Marissa Nadler – For My Crimes

Riva Taylor – My Mouth

Sara Diamond – Fool

Laurel – Same Mistakes

Ina Wroldsen – Mother

Kymberley Kennedy - Don’t Pacify Me

JONES – Silver Screen

Lauren Waller – Can’t See

ESS SEE – Fast Cheap Easy

Shefali – Let U Go

TRACK REVIEW: Elias - Tearing Down the Walls

TRACK REVIEW:

 

Elias

Tearing Down the Walls

9.4/10

The track, Tearing Down the Walls, is available via:

https://open.spotify.com/album/58EPKD5JrMQ70PJD9ndDWq

GENRES:

Pop; R&B; Alternative

ORIGIN:

Stockholm, Sweden

The album, Entwined, is available via:

https://open.spotify.com/album/0ysbz1S6Ml5PdyN4qqsj94

RELEASE DATE:

15th June, 2018

_________

EACH artist I encounter…

has a lot to offer and can provide an interesting angle into the world of music. You never know what you are going to get and it can be fascinating seeing what they come through with. Before I get to Elias; I wanted to look at a few different aspects worth exploring. I will investigate inspirational stories and those who overcome adversity to conquer and strive; music that gets to the point and goes right into the heart; voices that seem to convey so many messages and possibilities; writing that goes deeper and seems to capture the complexities of human existence – a bit about solo artists and those who will continue to do great work and succeed. It is interesting looking at Elias and where he has come from. The Stockholm-raised musician has battled hard to become the artist he is today and faced enough obstacles along the way. I wanted to concentrate on something that you do not hear in a lot of articles and reviews: musicians who have dyslexia. It is not often concentrated on but, in reality, there are so many who suffer from dyslexia. It can be quite mild or, for some, it is very severe and can affect their lives in a very profound way. One of the reasons I have not interviewed Elias is because his dyslexia is very bad. For anyone, this kind of disability can be troubling: for a musician who tries to convey themselves in a written form; that is quite a burden. I say ‘burden’ but it might not be the case with Elias. He handles his condition but it does make some aspects of his life quite difficult. Written interviews are out of the question and the way he must present his music and prepare it differs. A lot of musicians will write music/lyrics and then rewrite/shape them. It is a traditional process and is the way you get from conception to realisation. If you are unable to write – or write easily and proficiently – then what do you do?!

I suffered difficulty as a child when it came to writing and reading. I was late to the game and struggled to convey myself effectively. It was a frustrating and troubling time that got under my skin and made me very unhappy. I can only imagine how hard it is for someone like Elias. Many might say dyslexia is a hindrance that makes songwriting impossible: if anything, the way he articulates himself is a much more direct and human thing. Rather than display his songs in a written and intangible thing; he puts it out there directly and verbally. I am not sure of the exact process but I can imagine it is a mixture of voice processing/recording and some basic jottings. In any case, the way Elias writes his songs is different to many other people out there. My heart goes out to him but one of the other reasons I am so interested in his movements is how direct and captivating his sounds are. We often overlook artists who go through struggles, whether that is an illness or disability, or have some sort of impediment. It is not spotlighted but I wonder whether there are ways to combat that and provide assistance. I am sure Elias manages well but it must be hard, when he has an idea, to get it down straight and have it formed as easily as others. Rather than highlight dyslexia and let it define him; I wanted to congratulate the artist and look at what he is writing right now. It is amazing hearing his music come through and what it does to the senses. There are a lot of artists who write similar music/themes but nothing as stirring and majestic as Elias. You hear so many songwriters out there and it can be hard getting a grip on what is good and what succeeds. In a very hectic and packed world; how do you decide which artists are worth long-term fascination?! I feel Elias is one of those people who sticks around and remains in the brain because his music is so soulful and emotional.

The directness and instancy of Elias is something that defines his music. You listen to a song like Tearing Down the Walls and get a real sense of openness and revelation. He does not hide behind metaphors and disguises his language in meaningless ways. Maybe the way he gets his music onto the page – or recorder – means he is not fettling and endlessly tampering with words to get them right. I have been listening to his new album, Entwined, and each song has a different skin and personality. The common denominator is the way the tracks leap from the speakers and sit in the heart. It is a very special experience listening to Elias and what he is coming up with right now. I am drawn to his spirit and what he has to say. I will look at song derivation and why some artists go that little bit deeper but, before then, it might be worth looking at the state of the industry and how many artists are out there. I think about the issue a lot: the sheer size and breadth of music and how it can daunt the consumer. You have so many options and available avenues; it can be like a blitz or attack. Every week, there are new idols and options for the restless mind. We consume music differently to how we did, say, a decade ago. Now, we are much more about singles and tracks: albums, in their entirety, are less important and featured. I still love to listen to music right the way through but, when it comes to the newer acts; sometimes it is hard listening to everyone’s albums all the way through – there is so much more out there that needs to be investigated! That is not the fault of anyone but it interests me how far we have come in some respects; we have gone backwards in others. I am not sure what will happen to the music industry but it seems now, more than ever, it is tougher to get people to sit down and listen to your work all the way through and keep their minds hooked.

This may seem doom-laden and negative but my point is that there are those out there that sort off stop you in your tracks. It is hard looking out at music and picking those who are going to remain and succeed. You can never make that absolute prediction but there are some you know will remain and continue to do amazing things. Elias’ delivery and songwriting chemistry is different from anything else and makes quite an impression! His voice is soulful, as I said, but it is what he puts out there that compels. His way with words and what he does with subject matter stuns me. It is hard to pinpoint and define in words but you have to listen to the young man and how he does things. It is amazing hearing an Elias song and letting all the notes sink in. Some songs, like the one I am going to review, look at breaking down walls and boundaries. There seems to be an intergenerational divide and clash that affects us all. We all grew up listening to our parents’ experiences and how different it is to today. Even though he is based out of Sweden; the experiences of his parents are going to be similar to us here. My parents went through tough times and grew up in very humble and difficult circumstances. Now, I have the chance to make a better life and have more opportunity. That boundary-breaking spirit is not confined to life experience and domestic situation. What Elias is doing is tearing down the barriers in music and homes. There are no real splits between the music of now – Dance or Pop – and what was out there in the 1970s and 1980s. The same can be said for dancing, living or emotions. Whatever we feel is different now to back then – when our parents were young – it is really not at all. Maybe the economy and state of the world have changed but the roots and building blocks that make us who we are have not altered. Consider what your parents were dancing to or what made them special: that is the same for us and we have more in common than you’d think. These arbitrary and needless walls are placed and we often feel the needs to isolate ourselves from our ancestors. Elias is taking away this division and realises these (walls) is foolish and misguided.

Alongside the themes and stories of togetherness and unity is that central voice that digs very deep and unleashes a wave of emotions. Elias writes about his life and all its strands: the ugly and dirty aspects and the beautiful, bright moments. He understands what his parents felt/feel and knows there is that common link. The words and sentiments put out into the world can be understood by everyone and we all can learn a lot. I have listened to Elias’ album and learnt quite a lot about myself and other people. Maybe that is the way the Swedish songwriter puts his work out; perhaps that voice is what sparks it to life and gets it into the mind. There are singers who can articulate themselves in a potent and extraordinary manner. There is a deep sound but lightness and sensitivity working away. It is a fantastic brew and holds so many colours and diversions. Maybe it is the music he grew up listening to or how he has to adapt to dyslexia and its effect – the way the young man gets his voice out there is extraordinary. There are a few people lucky enough to hold that sort of power and nuance: if you have a talent like Elias; hold onto it and do whatever you can to bring it to the people. The combination of abilities and talented means you will stick with Elias and listen to everything he puts out. Whereas there are one or two songs on Entwined that are not as good as the best; there are no weak moments and you feel like the album, as a whole, is a very worthy and challenging treat. I have been listening back for a few days now and learning quite a lot. It is wonderful hearing Elias sing and what music means to him. The same way he is breaking down walls and keen to join generations through their common experiences; he wants people to bond over his music and learn more about themselves and the world around them.

Maybe I am waffling a bit – but that is what great artists do to you, I guess! What gets to me is how long Elias has spent in the studio and the work he puts in. He has logged thousands of hours and you can hear the progress made on his album. One can see the leaps he has made and how he has improved since his debut single (Revolution). All of his career and progress is on Entwined and you can hear how that time in the studio has strengthened what he is about. As a debut album; that voice scores so many different subjects and colours. Many artists produce an introduction that looks at love, life and things close to them. They say you need to write about what you know, as so, many will talk about their relationships and how they feel. That is all very well but it can be difficult making statements that are any different to your average songwriter. Love and relationships are not as complex as all that and it is easy to feel a little bored by the same words and expressions. Elias talks about human rights, the outside world and something far bigger than what is in his heart. Of course, he feels pains of broken love and the rush of lust but is not all about that. It can be quite bristling and egregious listening to someone pour their heart out for an album and not really changing things up. I understand the intention – to show the listener what makes them tick and defines them – but the world is a huge and complex place. Taking your listeners out of a comfort zone and opening their eyes to something more is much more credible and impressive. It is hard to decipher which artists can offer you that, as there is so much music, but I am always looking for acts who open your eyes and horizons.

Before I move onto a particular song that has caught my attention; I wanted to look at solo artists and a bit about Stockholm. I feel bands are starting to make a comeback and gaining more focus than they did years ago. The tide turned towards solo artists and it has been hard unearthing great bands that have the ammunition to go on and be a success. Maybe that was a phase but now, in 2018, there are some terrific groups who are starting to crack and turn opinion. Maybe it is the fact there are so many solo artists out there is can be challenging to separate them and stick firm. I get sent loads of music from solo artists and I always find something interesting. I can never sit still and spent too much time with someone and, whilst that is a problem for bands too, it is something that affects solo artists. The industry is packed and how long does one realistically have to listen to the music and let it all sink in?! Again, this might sound harsh but there are a few that demand more time and energy. Music is a fickle industry and a tough nut to crack; if you can do that and stand aside from the competition then you are doing something right. Elias has some common threads and movements – the way he sings and the accessibility of his compositions – but he goes out of his way to impress. You get a lot of interesting lines and hooks; some great clashes of upbeat and introverted. He has a bold and passionate soul but is capable of taking things down and being emotional. The same can be said when it comes to the songs and their themes. There is variation and stimulation working throughout. That, coupled with his determination and work ethic means he will be around for a long time and settle in the public consciousness.

Sweden and Stockholm and not areas we often look to but I feel we should all be more aware. I love the nation and wonder whether we spend too much of our time in the U.S. and U.K. There are great European artists emerging and parts of the world we do not focus too much on. Sweden has always produced brilliant artists and has a particular knack when it comes to Pop and Electronic music. The modern breed emerging is keeping the ethics of past masters but mixing so much colour and energy in. I feel the music we witness in the U.K. and U.S. can be a bit samey and commercial. Sweden has the same public demands and charts but the new artists from here seem less concerned with fitting into holes and compromising. The sounds are more free and expressive; they take in more sounds and fabrics and provide more fascination. There is a lot to recommend and, thinking of Elias, he seems to define what Sweden is about and how good its artists are. Look at where music is heading in terms of Pop and Alternative sounds and I wonder whether Sweden will get more attention. By that, I mean the artists coming from here are providing something more emphatic, energised and deep. Not that the music from Britain lacks those qualities: Swedish artists have that extra magic and seem to possess something artists here do not. I feel Pop music is shaping and shifting; it is getting more colourful and holding more emotional weight. You still get commercial stuff and cliché acts but the best of the newcomers are going further and doing something wonderful. I feel the nation deserves more acclaim and focus than it does right now. I am not sure whether Elias is in Stockholm full-time – or based in the U.K. some of the time – but he is doing the country proud and will get more ears and eyes turning the way of Sweden. I have talked enough about Elias and what he is about; looked at various angles and how I feel the young man will develop. I shall come onto a song from Entwined, I feel, defines the album: the celebrated and extraordinary Tearing Down the Walls.

Tearing Down the Walls starts with chanted and echoed vocals. It is a declaration and call that hints at what is to come. The hero steps to the microphone and wonders what would happen if we all ran together and joined forces. I feel, right from the off, there is that need to stop putting boundaries between us and thinking we are all different. We need to face things together and join with one another. Right at the start, you do not know whether the song refers to troubles in the world or it is something more personal. We will run together, it is said, but not be divided. There is that determination to fuse generations and people so we can all face things as one. You cannot listen to the song and feel like modern politics and social divisions are being overlooked. Given the way the world is splitting and how far apart we are drifting; rather than shut people away and feel we need to look out for ourselves; we need to attack and push through as a unit and take away these walls. It is a stirring and powerful message from the songwriter. You get the sense there is a bit of personal mandate in there. Maybe Elias has sat back and looked at how people push away others and feel they need to be independent. We are not that different from previous generations and we all think, broadly, the same way. We dance to the same beat as our parents and the way the world is spitting is not that distinct from decades ago. I wonder whether we learn from the past and are too willing to make mistakes and not take any lessons away. Whether referring to politics or how the young do not look to the past and their parents’ voices; these separations are dangerous and not how we should be going forward.  What I sense, more than anything, is walls being broken down in terms of dance and movement.

You hear the big chorus and words and it seems like it’s a proclamation to get together through music and set things alight. Against all the struggle and turmoil that is happening; we all dance and react to music so that is what we need to do – a way through and a chance to set aside all our differences. The chorus has that big and proud sound that throws everything into the mix and creates spark and colour. I was fascinated by the energy and bold sound coming through. From a more contemplative and cautious verse; the song changes direction and urges everyone to get together and strike. The world might be burning, literally and metaphorically, but we can change things and make a difference. The track starts off with a deep look at what is happening around us and how we place blocks before us. After the first chorus; the mood changes and it seems like a breakthrough has been made. Elias is keen for Tearing Down the Walls to strike a chord and resonate. What we discover is a song that asks why we stands separate and do not willingly join together; how we all seem to look out for ourselves and why we need to change. You have that epic message of togetherness and surrendering to the dance. That is my interpretation and I realise, when you listen, you’ll get something different. However you view the song; it will remain in the mind and compel further listening. I was invested the first time around but have come back and discovered something fresh and unexpected further down the tracks. That is the mark of a great song: it hits you right away but keeps revealing magic and mystery after new spins. Tearing Down the Walls is a standout cut from Entwined and proof the Stockholm artist has a lot more to say in the future. Make sure you spend time with Elias and let the music absorb into the skin and influence the mind.

It has been a very busy year for Elias and his music. The debut album is out in the world and things are starting to hot up. Elias has released E.P.s and singles before but this is his full-length offering and something that will get his music to the wider world. We are becoming less interested in the album as a whole but there are musicians who compel greater concentration and intrigue. You cannot really casually dip into Entwined and sit back: it is a fascinating and fulsome album that requires proper investigation and passion. Because of that, I have not only listened to Tearing Down the Walls and left things there. I recommend everyone get behind the album and spends some proper time investigating, studying and listening. It is a fantastic work that collates all of Elias’ past works and shows what he is about right now. A career-spanning set of tracks that shows how compelling his music is; a brilliant and confident work from someone we will hear a lot of through the years. I am not sure what touring plans he has in mind but I know there will be some gigs here and there. Keep abreast of all his happenings through social media and, if he appears in a town near you; get out there and see what all the fuss is about. Critics have been given love to Entwined and it seems there is an appetite for what is putting out there. I am excited to see what happens next and where the young musician can go. I have written about Elias’ dyslexia and what he has to face; the sort of challenges behind his work and how hard it must be. It seems he copes and finds a way to articulate his music in a very raw and connecting way. I shall leave things here but I have loved discovering Elias and finding out what makes him tick. I hope he comes to the U.K. and plays over here; gets his music out to the world and keeps pushing forward. There are a lot of great solo artists around but there are very few that leave a big a mark…

AS Elias!  

___________

Follow Elias

 Official:

http://www.eliassongs.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/EliasSongs

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/eliassongs/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/eliassongs/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/eliassongs

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0UCLbPGOhtnYf29U7qbfLf

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFMHQeeSlvoc3APIAE9mX9g

INTERVIEW: Barbudo

INTERVIEW:

Barbudo

___________

THERE are few who can resist…

a good bit of Funk – just as well Barbudo are here to provide a perfect weekend gem in the form of Secret Admirer! I ask how the band got together and what the story behind their latest song is; whether there is a good music scene where they are in Havant – I ask what it feels like being celebrated by some big sources.

I discover what sort of artists they grew up around and what comes next; if there are any gigs booked in the diary; what advice they would offer new artists – the guys reveal what ambitions they have left to fulfil this year.

___________

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

Our weeks have been great. We released our new music vid on the 8th and we’ve been getting a lot of positive feedback from it!

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

Barbudo is a Nu-Eyed Funk project consisting of songwriter brothers Harry and Ben Stanworth and best friend Elliott Salter. We write fun easy-going Funk music with a modern twist. 

How did Barbudo get together? Is there a story behind that name?

It started as a working title for the band when it was just Ben in the band and we decided to keep it as it had a certain ring to it. It is a translation of 'beard one' in Spanish but we are also big fans of Twin Peaks and owls too. There is an owl called a beard screen owl (autillo barbudo in Spanish) 

Secret Admirer is your new cut. How did that song come to life? What inspired its birth?

The song has gone through many incarnations - but the one we settled on was when we were listening to a lot of Michael Jackson and late-seventies Funk and Disco.

You guys are based out of Havant. Is there an active music scene down there? 

There’s a bit of a music scene in Portsmouth but Havant is fairly quiet. There is only one other band in Havant (to my knowledge) who are called Flowvers. It’s great to hear a group of young people from Havant making good music! 

Your last E.P., Pleasures, gained a big reaction. How do you think you have developed since then?

Pleasures was our first endeavour into a Funk and Soul kinda vibe so we were just working out exactly how we wanted to sound. Since then, we’ve perfected our sound a bit more and have more direction to the sound.

A lot of big sources have picked up and celebrated your music. Does it give you a confidence boost knowing sources like The Line of Best Fit are reacting to what you are putting out?!

Yeah, definitely. It’s really hard to get your music out there and get noticed - and publications like The Line of Best Fit writing about you really help with that exposure!

I hear Funk and Soul in your sounds. Which artists did you all grow up around?

We grew up surrounded by all kind of music from our parents. Both our mum and dad were really into the Disco scene and would play those records a lot. They both have an amazing taste in music and still buy records today! Chic, Bee Gees and Prince are just a few of the classics I can remember hearing as a kid.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We currently don’t have any shows booked but we might be playing at the Shacklewell Arms on 3rd July. We should have more shows/maybe even a tour booked in the next month or so! 

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We’ve got our vinyl coming out at the beginning of 2019, so we’ll be working towards that but we are planning on releasing a new track in the meantime.

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

Our first ever gig was in a dingy old pub in a Portsmouth. Halfway through our set, a lady who was fairly inebriated came and stole our microphones and was wailing some random words into the mics. We were fairly young at the time and didn’t really know what to do!

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

It would be a tossup between Anderson. Paak and Parliament-Funkadelic. Anderson is making great music and he’s a really talented musician. P-Funk is such a prestigious group that changed Funk music; it would be an honour to play with them. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep on working at it; never let anyone put you down and believe in yourself.

IN THIS PHOTO: La-Z-Eye

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Our brother has a cool project everyone should check out called La-Z-Eye. Kinda similar to us in a way but he is more Electro and he looks amazing on stage! Another person you should check out is Ellie Bleach. She’s a great songwriter and has a beautiful voice

IN THIS PHOTO: Ellie Bleach

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

We spend most of our time making music if we’re honest…we love it that much. Aside from that, we spend time with friends and hanging at the beach when it’s nice weather!

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).

Holger Czukay - Cool in the Pool

Prefab Sprout - Wild Horses

_____________

Follow Barbudo

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/barbudoband

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/barbudoband/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/barbudoband

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWMOqGpNtBgO3CXGJsYKXxg

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/autillobarbudo

Bandcamp:

https://autillobarbudo.bandcamp.com/releases

INTERVIEW: Courtney Cooper

INTERVIEW:

Courtney Cooper

___________

IT has been amazing speaking with Courtney Cooper…

as she prepares to launch her album, W A V E S, on 24th August. I ask about the new single, Damn, and whether there is a story behind it; what we can expect going forward; what sort of records she bought when she was younger – Cooper talks about the Berklee College of Music and what she learnt there.

I ask whether there are gigs booked and which newer acts we need to back; some albums that mean a lot to her; what she gets up to away from music – she ends the interview by selecting a rather awesome song.

___________

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

I'm great! Thanks so much for the opportunity to talk about my new music!

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

Hey. I’m Courtney Cooper! I’m a Soul-infused Indie-Pop artist from Brooklyn, N.Y. with a new album called W A V E S releasing on August 24th!

How did your new single, Damn, come about? What inspired this song?

Damn is my personal favorite on the album. The song plays on the similarities between our emotions, relationships and the ocean. Even in the opening line, you get a sense of this: “Emotional undertow – it’s got a hold and I can’t control my feelings”.

It’s kind of playing on the idea of being caught in an undertow, being pulled under and drowning in your own emotions, if that makes sense. I’m also completely in awe of the ocean and it’s beauty…it’s so breathtaking, sometimes you can’t help but stare in awe and think: ‘Damn…that’s incredible’ which, of course, also happens in relationships.

What can you tell me about the single, Vibes? Is there a story behind it?

Vibes is a super-chill summery song. When I was writing it, I just envisioned it was a perfect summer day - and I think you hear that when you listen to it...

The album, W A V E S, is out soon. What sort of themes and ideas compelled the songwriting?

I’ve always been extremely drawn to the ocean. There’s something so magical about the rise and fall of the tide - and the mystery of the unknown beneath the surface. All of the songs from the album are, in a way, inspired by the ocean and its beauty. I wrote the album during a really brutal winter in Brooklyn, N.Y. where I live on the waterfront.

As I was writing the album, staring out my window looking at snow, I daydreamed of tropical paradise; those reveries became the songs that make up the album. The title is also a play-on-words as well - as audio ‘waves’ are the vibrations of sound that are heard as music.

How important was attending Berklee College of Music at the age of seventeen? Did you learn a lot whilst there?

My time at Berklee was incredible. I was so young; I really grew up with my fellow classmates. Being constantly surrounded by some of the most amazingly talented teachers and students was magical. I learned so much, musically, it built such an incredible drive and fire within me. It was definitely not your ‘typical’ college experience but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

If we imagined your childhood record collection; what might we discover in there?

You would find stacks of cassettes! Does anyone remember those?! As a child, I had tons of Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson; Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men; Green Day, No Doubt…

More into my teens (and C.D.s), I got really into Aaliyah, Missy Elliott; Timbaland and Lauryn Hill.

How important are Brooklyn and its people regarding your sound? What is it like recording there?

I’ve lived in New York for over a decade but a few years ago, I took a break and moved to L.A. for three years. L.A. is, essentially, the polar opposite of N.Y.C. in every way: the lifestyle, pace; weather, people…

When I moved back to N.Y., it never occurred to me I would have any sort of culture shock since I’d lived in N.Y.C. for many years prior - but I couldn’t have been more wrong. My first winter back was really difficult adjusting to the negative energy that N.Y.C. sometimes holds. I felt such a longing for what I left behind and, basically, created my own mini-universe when I was writing the album and got lost in my own daydreams.

Are there going to be any tour dates coming up? Where can we see you play?

Yes, absolutely! I will be kicking off with my first show in Brooklyn to support the release and traveling from there. You can follow me on Instagram to keep up with future tour dates.

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

Nothing lined up quite yet but I would love to come to the U.K. and play!

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

Ha – sooo many! I’m one of those people who set the bar of goals really high each year and I am constantly reaching trying to accomplish new things. Major performances and festivals are high up on the list.

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

One of my funniest memories looking back, when I was really young, I lived with my grandma for a few years when my parents were divorcing. My grandma was the most amazing woman but she was also very strict and we didn’t have much money. I was completely obsessed with all things Michael Jackson but I didn’t have any money to buy his records back then.

I used to wake up in the middle of the night, sneak into the living room and sit in front of the T.V. watching MTV (I wasn’t allowed to watch MTV) when they used to play Michael Jackson music video marathons - with my two–tape-deck boom-box and record the sound (remember when you had to press play and record together?!).

For years, I would play those awfully-sonically-recorded tapes back in my room but I loved Michael Jackson so much it didn’t even matter. Another funny one looking back is when I was in fourth-grade; I had my first solo in the school choir. When the concert rolled around I was on crutches from an injury and had to limp out to the front of the stage to where the microphone was. I was SO mortified! All the kids in school called me ‘gimpy’ after that.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Michael Jackson- Dangerous; Fiona Apple – Tidal and Lauryn Hill - The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Always stay true to yourself! I struggled with this for many years as industry executives would tell me what I should look or sound like. Looking back, I wish I would never have listened to them and just created the music I felt inside myself.

IN THIS PHOTO: Sinead Harnett

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

So many! I’m currently listening to a lot of SG Lewis, H.E.R.; Gallant, BANKS, Sinead Harnett; Bishop Briggs, Michl; Leo Kalyan, RY X; Alina Baraz, Jessie Ware and Charlotte OC.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Bishop Briggs

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

I try and find a nice balance but, to be honest, my favorite way to unwind is working on music. I’m also a big fan of super low-key Netflix nights with wine and popcorn. I do a lot of yoga to center myself, too.

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

Gallant – Weight in Gold

_____________

Follow Courtney Cooper

Official:

https://www.courtneycoopermusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CourtneyCooperMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/courtney_cooper/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5xA4nu3XMPlIdbbSyuQ6yu

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/courtneycooper/

INTERVIEW: Matilda Eyre

INTERVIEW:

Matilda Eyre

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I am starting my Friday…

PHOTO CREDIT: Lindsay Melbourne

introducing you to Matilda Eyre. She has been telling me about her debut single, FYA, and what its story is. I ask how songs come together and whether we will see new material coming later this year – Eyre discusses moving from Germany to London and what gigs are coming up.

I was eager to know which albums are important to her and which artists she responds to her; what advice she would give to new artists – she ends the interview by selecting an amazing song.

___________

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

Great, thank you! Lots of writing and recording.

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

Hi, I'm Matilda Eyre. I'm into Indie-Pop, Electronica and eerie vocals. I love intricate stories of fall and rise.

FYA is your debut song. What is the story behind it?

FYA is a really personal song. It's about self-worth and, with the title, FYA - For Your Approval - it is sharing my own story and reflecting on the deceiving illusion of external validation. It's an intimate song about childhood and the stories we make up about ourselves early on.

Do you think there will be other material coming later in the year?

FYA is leading as the debut because it's about my heritage and about where I started out from. There are more singles coming up.

How do songs come together for you? Do they sort of layer themselves or will you attack a track all at once?

Mostly, they come when it's just me and the piano; playing chords and humming melodies. But, sometimes, a beat really grabs me and the song unfolds from there. At any given time, I work on a few different songs on rotation.

You work with soundscapes and create drama and atmosphere. Is music, to you, an extension of yourself and a way of conveying your inner emotions?

Music and stories have always been an outlet for me - feeling an emotion or working through a challenging situation and turning that into an atmosphere framed by lyrics and hooks. It started early on at school where I would sneak into our empty auditorium to play songs on the grand piano.

You started life in Germany but are based in London. Is London somewhere you feel settled and inspired by?

I love London. It has given me so much; pulling me from being a singer-songwriter into the eerie Electronica spectrum. It all started out because of a conversation I had with Daughter after a concert in Frankfurt (she was supporting Ben Howard) which inspired me to fly out to London the following week. That was 2012.

Which artists are most important to you? Who do you recognise as idols?

Ben Howard, Florence Welch; Sylvan Esso - but also poets and writers such as Kahlil Gibran, Paulo Coelho and Elizabeth Gilbert.

Can we see you tour this year? What gigs do you have coming along?

Absolutely. There will be a couple of shows announced soon.

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

Finishing my first E.P. I’m in the process spending as much time as possible by the ocean.

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

My favourite memory so far was being out in L.A.; constantly writing, filming; making music with friends and playing a show out there with everyone dancing to my beats.

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Ben Howard – Every Kingdom

Just because I love his music more than anything I'll add I Forget Where We Were, too.

Florence and the Machine - Lungs

Sylvan Esso – Sylvan Esso

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Go, make your music. Don't hold out for perfection, especially not other people's perception of perfection. Don't let it delay you.

 IN THIS PHOTO: sir Was

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I'm obsessed with sir Was; especially his debut E.P., Says Hi. It caught me completely off guard. I haven't been able to stop listening to it: in the shower, in the car; any place, you name it.

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

Time seems to be running so fast these days. Any moment I get I'm in the studio. Right now, I love crafting and embroidery though; it keeps me calm.

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).  

sir Was – Falcon

_____________

Follow Matilda Eyre

Official:

https://www.matildaeyre.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/matildaeyre

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/matildaeyre/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/matildaeyre/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChZBv7Rjn4ZoEt2YOfki2Nw

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/matildaeyre

INTERVIEW: Northern Quarter

INTERVIEW:

Northern Quarter

___________

A cracking band based out of the Rocky Mountains…

is not something you hear a lot of people say! That all changes when you encounter Northern Quarter and dig deep into their music. I have been speaking with the guys about their latest E.P., Cold Dark Night, and the kind of themes that influenced it – they select their favourite cuts.

I discover how the band got together and whether there are any tour dates booked in the diary; if there might be further material this year; what their favourite memories from music are – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

___________

Hi, Northern Quarter. How are you? How has your week been?

We’ve had an amazing week! The band has only just started to dip its toes into the wonderful world of original music after playing mostly covers for about a year. It is opening doors for us that we didn’t even dream of, like radio sessions and newspaper interviews; plus, the E.P. is going to be launched on Friday and we couldn’t be more excited or proud!

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

We’re a one-year-old half-Canadian, half-British band based in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta in a gorgeous town called Canmore. It’s probably one of the most beautiful places on Earth and we are lucky enough to call it home. There are four of us: Kerry Hunter on vocals, Carlos Nadeau on guitar; Wendy Crewe on bass and Dave Crewe on drums and samples. Dave is also the producer of the E.P. and manager of the band.

Cold Dark Night is your E.P. What sort of themes and stories inspired the songwriting?

Two of the songs (Fort Mac Anthem and Boomtown Blues) are written about Kerry’s hometown, Fort McMurray in Northern Alberta…basically, the lyrics are about growing up in a boomtown and having little to do but drink, laugh and sing with friends.

There’s also the usual themes of love lost (particularly in Dave’s songs, Here We Go and Don’t Leave My Side) but, also, there are bright spots of optimism about travel (Searching for Freedom) and making life-changing decisions (Every Second Counts).

Is there a cut from the E.P. you would select as a highlight?

Searching for Freedom is likely the band favourite. It was the first song that Kerry ever wrote and was a straightforward acoustic song but ended up totally transformed into an altogether different beast by the band.

How did Northern Quarter get together? As a half-British, half-Canadian band; are there a lot of cultural differences in the ranks?

Dave, Carlos and Wendy had already been in cover bands together for about three years. In the search for a new singer, they spotted Kerry at an open mic and, by happy chance, got an excellent songwriter and vocalist wrapped up in one. Culturally, things are interesting but the Brits have been in Canada for nine years now so they’re pretty much Canadian - apart from the accents.

They go back every year, though, because there’s still a love for the homeland. The biggest thing that looks like a cultural clash is when the Brits suggest a song to the Canucks who are all like: ‘Over and Over?! Hot Chip?! What the hell is this?!’ We cover it, anyway.

Will there be more music from you guys down the line?

Definitely! We’ve already got another three or four songs ready to play live and we are writing new ones all the time.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We’re mostly spending the summer moving around the Rocky Mountains of Alberta and British Columbia (tough life, eh?). Expect to see us in Panorama, Revelstoke; Waterton, Banff and, of course, Canmore.

Are British dates a possibility at all? Can we see you over here?

We’d love that! We’d need a lot more money than we have now though…I wouldn’t rule it out, but we haven’t planned anything yet.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Write more songs, play live more - because that is the BEST thing – and, hopefully, get as many people to hear us as possible. We’ve got a supremely unique gig coming up playing the top deck of a converted London bus on Canada Day, so we’re extremely excited about that.

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

Dave: For me, it was Kerry’s face lighting up the first time all of us played one of her songs. She’d never been in a band before and had only played her own songs on an acoustic guitar, so seeing her experience that was heart-warming.

Kerry: We played a venue called The Drake a couple months ago…the dancefloor was totally full and everyone was singing along the with last few songs looking incredibly stoked!

Carlos: About two years ago, I played at the Bighorn Symposium right here in Canmore…it was a stunning sunny day; we were on the wonderful Stan Rodgers Stage; my family and all my friends were there…it was just the best time.

Wendy: In a former band, our saxophonist punched a member of the audience for (accidentally) knocking a microphone stand into his sax. Good times.

As you are half-Canadian and half-British; if you could create a mythical beast of a celebrity, half-British and half-Canadian; who would be part of it (you can choose politicians and literary figures, too)?

Probably Michael Buble/Shaun Ryder. I have no idea why but it sounds like an amazing gig.

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

Fleetwood Mac. We’d want Perrier water with all the bubbles taken out.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Never stop. Never stop writing, never stop gigging; never stop making your sound and presentation the best it can possibly be.

 IMAGE CREDIT: St. Paul and The Broken Bones

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We’re loving St. Paul and The Broken Bones at the moment as well as a French band called Teacup Monster whose singer is just fantastic. Also, The Teskey Brothers…

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

None of us is full-time at music (yet) so most time is spent working, unfortunately. Dave and Carlos are gamers; Kerry likes growing things. All of us are snowboarders in the winter: it’s virtually compulsory here.

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).

Kerry: Pain and Misery by The Teskey Brothers

Dave: Great Expectations by Elbow

Carlos: Riviera Paradise by Stevie Ray Vaughan

Wendy: I Wanna Be Adored by The Stone Roses

____________

Follow Northern Quarter

Official:

http://www.northernquarterband.ca/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/NrthernQuarter

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/northernquarterband/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/northernquartercanada/

YouTube:

https://www.instagram.com/northernquartercanada/

INTERVIEW: Stray Monroe

INTERVIEW:

Stray Monroe

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THE cool and charming chaps of Stray Monroe…

have been spending time with me and discussing the video for their single, Seaside. The band tell me how they came together and what the vibe is like in San Diego – they recommend some new artists to check out.

I ask them whether they’ll come to the U.K. and play; whether they all share musical tastes; what plans they have for the rest of the year; their favourite memories from music – they end the interview by selecting some excellent tunes.

___________

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

Hey. It’s been a busy week! We just got done playing a packed show at the House of Blues Anaheim with Weathers. Our singer, Blake, had a really bad case of laryngitis so we had to do some very last-minute adjustments to the set to the set. The show was killer, though, and the crowd was phenomenal. We love Orange County; it’s like our home away from home. We can’t wait to come back soon.

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

Sure. Blake Imperl (Vocals/Guitar), Brett Kelly (Bass) and Colin Croft (Drums).

The video for Seaside is out. Can you talk about the song and how it came together?

Seaside was actually one of the easiest writing processes we’ve been through. The song started as a demo on Blake’s iPhone before he brought it to the rest of the band. Once we started playing it as a band, the song came together in only a few hours. We wanted to make a song that was upbeat and that people could dance to. We weren’t sure if it was going to make the cut for our E.P., Momentary Vertigo.

It was only after playing it at a house-party and seeing the crowd’s reaction that we decided it was worth including on the E.P. We like the song because it has a relatable message and reminds us of our home in San Diego.

What was it like putting the video together? Will there be more material coming soon?

The process was really fun for all of us. We filmed it with Nolan Woodward and Keeyan Irvjie, two up-and-coming college film directors. They pitched us the idea for a V.H.S.-style video and we immediately loved the direction they wanted to take it. We filmed it over the course of three days around various locations in San Diego. It was a very fun environment in which we were able to showcase our personalities. We wanted to make a video that was unique and that you wanted to watch over and over again.

Yes, there will be new material out within the next few months. We’re always writing and are excited to get back into the studio shortly.

How did Stray Monroe find one another? When did you all meet?

We all met at San Diego State University. Colin and Blake had been in a previous band before but it wasn’t until Brett came into the picture that we started Stray Monroe.

San Diego is your base. What sort of music vibe and scene is there?

San Diego has a lot of people who are supportive of the local music scene. That being said, there are many small music niches within San Diego that make it tough to have one unified scene. We’ve always felt like we never fit into any niche which caused us to develop a chip on our shoulder and aspire to more than just ‘San Diego-famous’. We love San Diego but always had our sights on hitting the road and playing in as many cities as we can.

Do you all share musical tastes? Did you all grow up around a lot of music?

We all share common threads in our musical tastes. One of our favorite things to do is to introduce each other to new artists/songs. It’s sort of like a game of one-upping each other by seeing who can discover the coolest songs. That’s how a lot of our influences for new songs start. We all grew up around music in different facets but it was only in our teens that we discovered music as more than just a hobby.

PHOTO CREDIT: Rick Perez

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We just got back from Mexico a few weeks ago and have been busy promoting the E.P. here in Southern California. Right now, we’re focusing on making a name in the L.A. music scene. The second we get the chance, we plan to tour the United States, U.K. and anywhere else that will have us. We have a big fan base in Brazil and would love the opportunity to go play there.

Do you think you’ll come to the U.K. and gig here?

Absolutely. A lot of our favorite artists are from the U.K. and we’ve always believed that our music would be well-received there.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

We hope to get our new E.P. into as many ears as possible. We think we put out a great record and we’re excited to continue to share our music around the world. We’re also continuing to write new music and play shows. Our ultimate goal is to find the right record label and then get back in the studio and make an even better follow-up to Momentary Vertigo.

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

Blake: I think my favorite moment was when we got played on local radio for the first time. If you were to tell my younger self that one day I’d hear a song we wrote played on the radio, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. We all sat in my car and waited for the song to come on. It was a pretty special moment that we’ll never forget. 

Brett: My favorite moment was writing our song Hold the Line. At the time, we were all going through rough patches in our lives and used this song as an outlet to release our frustrations. Our goal was to write a song that was unlike anything we had ever done before and challenged us as musicians. We utilized a variety of new instruments such as the glockenspiel and the Mellotron in an effort to be like The Beatles. I’m not lying when I say that hearing the end product made each of us tear up!

Colin: My favorite moment was when we played our first show in Mexico. The venue was packed; it felt like the whole town came out. The craziest thing was that very few people spoke English, but our music served as a medium to communicate and bond over. We love Mexico and it’ll always hold a special place in our hearts.

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

We’re all huge fans of Portugal. the Man and take a lot of influence from their live show; so that’d be a dream come true.

Our rider would consist of sushi platters, blue Jolly Ranchers and a personal masseuse...AND tequila!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep on doing what you’re doing; don’t compare yourselves to other artists who are having success. Be involved in your community, respect and give back to your fans and never stop writing and practising. Success doesn’t happen overnight but through persistence and hard work.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Twin Peaks

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

We love Twin Peaks and The Academic. We think they’re probably the best young bands around. We opened up for the Academic in March and they were some of the most genuine guys we’ve ever had the pleasure of playing with.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Academic

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

Our lives pretty much revolve around music. There’s always something we’re working on so, on the rare chance we do get breaks, we always try to enjoy those moments. We like trying new restaurants, exploring San Diego and watching sports.

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).

Blake: I Am the Resurrection - The Stone Roses

Brett: Band on the Run - Paul McCartney & Wings

Colin: Houdini - Foster the People

_____________

Follow Stray Monroe

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/straymonroe

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/straymonroe

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/straymonroe/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0pfz6hvgWeXZcLBmjIqaDP

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/straymonroe

FEATURE: Sisters in Arms: An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. IV)

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms

IN THIS PHOTO: Qveen Herby/ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Getty Images 

An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. IV)

__________

THE penultimate instalment of this feature…

IN THIS PHOTO: Lauren Housley

overtly mixes the contrasts of summer: the blazing heat and rushing lust together with the sleepy and romantic evenings. It is a playlist that, again, covers a multitude of genres, artists and areas; guaranteed to get inside the head and provoke further investigation. I hope you explore the artists and follow them closely as, between them, we have some definite future stars. As the sun starts to go down and the heat drops (slightly); spin the playlist and escape into a weird, comforting and memorable…

IN THIS PHOTO: Molly Hammar

WORLD of music.

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Natalie Shay – Perfume

Roz Yuen – Feels So Good

Qveen Herby – SADE IN THE 90S

Tally Spear – Fade to White

Rae Okino – Mind

Moscow Apartment – Be You

Molly Hammar – Bathtub Moments

Bianca Ryan – Remember

Catherine McGrath - Lost in the Middle

Mitski - Nobody

Robyn Cage – Space Oddity

PHOTO CREDIT: Brittany Berggren

Lindsay Ell – I Don’t Trust Myself (With Loving You)

Freya Ridings – Ultraviolet

Only Girl - Bittersweet

HOTO CREDIT: Bill Bernstein

Rachael Sage – Alive

Lauren Housley – My Sleeping Heart

Elley Duhé - LOST MY MIND

Accü – Did You Count Your Eyes?

PHOTO CREDIT: Bobby Mandrup 

Nelson Can – Downtown

Dream Wife (ft. Fever Dream) - F.U.U.

Lauran Hibberd – Fun Like This

DIDI – Fast and Furious

Roxanne de Bastion – Rerun

Sophie Simmons – Burn Me Down

PHOTO CREDIT: Jesse Crankson

Lyves – Still

Starling – Profiteroles

FEATURE: Moans + Longing: Artists and the Long Pause Between Albums

FEATURE:

 

Moans + Longing

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash 

Artists and the Long Pause Between Albums

__________

A new Florence + the Machine album…

IN THIS PHOTO: Gemma Hayes/ALL PHOTOS/IMAGES (unless credited otherwise): Getty Images

is out on Friday and, whilst it going to receive terrific reviews and do great business; I am relieved there is something out there – her last album, How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful, was only released three years ago but it seems like a bit of a gap. There are other artists who take that extra-long pregnancy to extreme lengths: The Avalanches released their debut, Since I Left You, in 2000 and only followed it up two years ago! Whilst Florence brings High as Hope to us; there are other artists who I have been looking out and wondering if the ellipsis between records has been worth it! I have written about this before when Royal Blood and London Grammar released their sophomore cuts – both arrived after a few years away from the mainstream. One of the exceptions to my general rule – not leaving too much of a pause between records – is a certain Paul McCartney. He released the album, New, back in 2013 (sounds ironic when you consider his follow-up is not out yet) and surprised us all with the announcement Egypt Station is coming out way in September. We can forgive The Beatles legend a little time to gestate, relax and ensure his music sounds just right. He has been in the music industry for so long as influenced countless musicians; he is not dependant on label approval and not concerned with keeping people interested because, like; well...he’s Paul McCartney!

The reason I have chosen Gemma Hayes as the ‘cover star’ of this article is that I am keen to hear more music from her. The fifth studio album from her, Bones + Longing, came out in 2014 and it is high-time the Irish wonder treated us to some more music. Her voice is that blend of heavenly and raw-toned; her wordplay and sense of connection (with the audience) is tremendous. I am a fan of Hayes’ music and feel we could do with her unique insight and sound. Other artists such as Natasha Bedingfield – not to everyone’s tastes, I know – has been relatively silent since 2008 and many fans are eager for new work. Maybe I am being a little harsh on Gemma Hayes: four years is not a long time and she has a busy creative and personal life to juggle. Beck took six years to follow up on 2008’s Modern Guilt but has released two albums since then. Lauryn Hill has only released one album (The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill in 1998) and there are many others who would put an elephant to shame when it comes to holding back (their pregnancy can last anywhere up to two years!). It seems, though, every time I complain about an artist leaving gaps between records, low and behold, they bring something out.

I sent psychic grumblings out to the universe regards Paul McCartney and Jack White when I noticed a bit of a period between releases but I wonder whether there is too much pressure on musicians bringing stuff out regularly. There are extremes where you hear a brilliant album and then have to wait many years for anything else to come. Gone are the days when the biggest artists would release an album every year (or more, in many cases) but there are expectations that come from the public and labels. The reason big bands and artists could bring out albums so regularly was the comparative lack of competition and stress in the music industry. There has always been a competitive burden but now, with social media and streaming, people are getting more restless and patient. It is harder to stand out in the mind and resonate with so many artists doing the same thing. I wonder whether the way artists are tackling this issue is the right way of doing things. I mentioned two acts, London Grammar and Royal Blood, who released successful debuts and saw huge tour demands come from that. Rather than capitalise and strike whilst the iron was hot; they left it too long and brought out records that added very little to their debuts. It is a hard balance to strike I guess. You can hunker down in the studio and see if that urgency produces wonder or spend time honing and thinking about new angles.

IN THIS PHOTO: London Grammar/PHOTO CREDIT: Emma Viola Lilja/NME

I hold every hope Gemma Hayes will be back soon; there are other artists where I wonder what they are up to and whether they are leaving too long a gap between records. Paul McCartney’s unexpected releases, lately, show that time away has done the legend good: the first tastes of Egypt Station mix McCartney’s early solo career with classic Beatles sounds. I know artists like Hayes have faced pressure from record labels and been forced to make their music more commercial and ‘popular’. I wonder, too, whether artists are rebelling against labels and trying to be less commercial and obvious. The tendency is for acts to bring out great albums and then, when labels see they have done well, to do the exact same thing and quick-release a duplicate. A lot of artists, especially women, are styled by the label and made to conform with a certain ideal. Maybe that involves make-up and tight wardrobes; leaving nothing to the imagination and placing sex and flirtation over music and integrity. That is not always the case but you hear of artists unhappy with how they are marketed and that need to do things their own way – hence, the pause between records. Maybe we need to be more patient as consumers and respect an artist’s right to release music at their own rate.

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

I worry, though, about the size of the market and what effect a long wait between albums can have. Look at articles like this and this that looks at big artists who took an awfully long time to bring out fresh material. It is an interesting debate but I feel the debate is not as simple as artists dragging their heels and endlessly fettling. Maybe The Avalanches are a bizarre case of disappearing and losing focus – other artists have taken over a decade to follow up albums – but what is the acceptable time between records? So many new artists are bringing stuff out regularly to keep in the mind and ensure they have an ear. Increased competition and technological development mean songs can be produced quicker but, with that, sees thousands come out every year – if you sound like someone else then you are less likely to succeed, endure and carve out your own market. Everyone is free to create and release at their own rate but it is true we are spending less time around whole albums and accessing music like we drink water. We tend to see an album come along; pick a few tracks from it and then that it is it – we put it aside and, unless it is really fantastic, we move on to the next thing.

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

Perhaps I have opened up another argument, or there are no answers, but there is that concern people will forget about you if you leave too long a wait between albums – or they forget the previous L.P. and let their minds wander. I think, if we look at why artists take a long to follow up albums, we can get to the root of the issue. Maybe it is that need to be radically different; perhaps they are being guided and told what to do by labels and other people; they might want to concentrate on family and take a breather. A lot of it comes down to the pace of the music industry and how hard it is to stand aside or do something genuinely radical. Maybe artists want something to be as good as possible: putting out a rushed and scrappy record could do more damage than leaving it years to do anything! I guess we could all do with appreciating music more and, instead of digesting everything without breathing and moving on; take time to listen to an album and artist – properly enjoy what they are putting out there. When it comes to releasing music and listening to the final project, maybe patience really is a virtue. Those artists who we assume are out in the wilderness and are not coming back; I am sure they are regrouping and producing albums that are different and personal. The likes of Gemma Hayes, who has faced commercial expectation and label interference, has earned the right to release music when she feels ready; others are trying to follow big releases and make the wait worthwhile. My biggest hope and concern is The Avalanches and whether they will wait another sixteen years to release album three! There are tolerable periods of creativity but taking that long; sorry boys, really is…

IN THIS IMAGE: The cover for The Avalanches 2016 album, Wildflower

A bit too much!

FEATURE: In the Days of Wine, Lavender and That Oft-Repeated Britpop Moment… Why Caitlin Moran’s Voice and Work Is Ever-Relevant and Inspiring to Me

FEATURE:

 

In the Days of Wine, Lavender and That Oft-Repeated Britpop Moment…

 Why Caitlin Moran’s Voice and Work Is Ever-Relevant and Inspiring to Me

__________

MAYBE it seems odd to focus…

on someone who, in her work as a journalist and novelist, does not write about music – not for the most part, at least. Caitlin Moran is someone who, for many years, has been a bit of a spirit guide! Her latest work, How to Be Famous: A Novel, is out, I believe, tomorrow and she is promoting it right now. I heard her speak with Stuart Maconie and Mark Radcliffe – on BBC Radio 6 Music yesterday – and it (the novel) concerns a nineteen-year-old who lives in London and writes for an ultra-super-cool magazine. It is framed and captured during the giddy and flash-in-a-pan Britpop regency and sees the heroine fall for a musician, John Kite, whose album goes to number-one. Before long, their worlds separate and the trappings of fame – in foreign and strange tone – becomes a deal-breaker. Johanna Morrigan (A.K.A., Dolly Wilde) starts her own column and exposes ‘the Famouses’ around her: those who are enjoying the luxuries and access of a high-profile record (those are a bit arsehole-ish, it seems). Morrigan/Wilde’s rising stock and notoriety means she has to face sacrificing the one person/thing keeping her grounded – it is an eye-opening and vivid work that reminds someone like me, around and coming to school-age maturity, around the Britpop time (between 1993-1996, in broad terms).

Previous Moran bestsellers – like 2011’s How to Be a Woman and 2016’s Moranifesto – have dealt with the author’s lives and experiences of being a woman. This is a fictional foray that has kindled new ambition in me. In addition to her work as a novelist/comedy writer, let’s spin the cassettes back to track-one; Moran is one of The Sunday Times/The Times’ biggest and most-popular writers. Her current piece, a parental guide to the new (complex) GCSEs is available and demonstrates the wit, observations and honesty that has made her a star writer. She has been writing for The Times since 1992 and, once upon a time, was a writer for Melody Maker. If I can wind the tape back a little more – without unspooling it! – and her work pre-The Times/Sunday Times and it is the way she has risen to prominence and been able to affect journalism that amazes me. Raised on a council estate in Wolverhampton – anyone who has seen her sitcom, Raised By Wolves, knows the autobiographical notes it strikes – she received very little ‘formal’ education and her early life was defined by instability and a lower-working-class reality. Her father, a former drummer, was confined to the sofa by osteoarthritis and Moran’s clan were dubbed ‘the only hippies in Wolverhampton’ (great band name, by the way!). Moran’s talent for writing and natural ability saw her, aged fifteen, win The Observer’s Young Reporter of the Year, and then, begin her path into journalism.

Rather than vacillate and pitch a biopic of Caitlin Moran – that possibility cannot be far away, surely?! – I wanted to outline why she is someone we should anoint an (unofficial) music leader. Although her music journalism days are behind her, Moran’s knowledge of the industry and exceptional taste (she picked Janet Jackson’s Rhythm Nation as a tune on Radcliffe and Maconie’s show: a real banger, she says, that is proper and does not dumb things down) marks her as a ubiquitous and utilitarian voice. One of the reasons I write the way I do is because of her. I love the work she created pre-The Times but it is the work/novels she is putting out now that really get to me. I, as a man, have an instant burden on the shoulder: part of a gender who are holding musical equality back and seeing the middle-aged, middle-aged minds of the business stagnate evolution and festoon music’s potential-perfume with their proprietary blend of ignorance and lame excuses – in other words, the men who run the show are c*nts. Although many are helping to accelerate gender equality; there is not a lot of vocal outcry from male music journalists. I make every effort to highlight women’s importance in music – see my last few features, for example – but feel I am in a minority. As a working-class writer, avoidably so; it feels like my aspirations to write regularly for someone like The Guardian, who I shall nick from/quote soon, seems far-fetched and foolhardy.

Caitlin Moran is someone who speaks to me, and many like me, in a very real and understanding fashion. Although; I doubt she will read this piece, she has influenced me in big ways and continues to open my mind (and eyes). Listening to her Desert Island Discs turn from January of last year and I noticed some similarities (between her and me). I have a huge love of Kate Bush and one of my earliest memories of her was seeing her in Wuthering Heights’ video in that white nightie (or a dress, I guess!). My favourite album is The Kick Inside, from where that song is from, and it seems Moran saw that video and aspired to be Bush (if it as easy as wearing a nightie and spinning around…); she loves The Beatles – choosing only one for her appearance (the Lennon-vocal-shredding Twist and Shout) – and feels like there is a surfeit of working-class writers in the media. It is great to feel there is someone out there who thinks like me and, for someone yearns to affect change and change people’s minds; maybe it is possible to get to the same position as Moran. Music is in a bit of a state where sexism is being talked about but ineffectively combatted; the working-class bands are working underground and not visible in the mainstream; there are cracks and issues that need to be addressed and tackled.

Caitlin Moran’s new book addressed Britpop and, in interviews, it seems the defining image is Noel Gallagher going to 10 Downing Street and, in a way, getting Labour into Government (in 1997). There were some great albums/times but we seem to look at that time in British music with rose-tinted glasses – the sort Liam Gallagher would have rocked with his hands behind his back! – but Moran was writing and blossoming during that time. Loathed to call her career a ‘journey’ (lest I vomit blood and destroy my laptop!); she has made her way from near-impoverished foundations and risen to become one of this country’s premier writers: an inspiration and guide to anyone who feels they cannot make it in the industry. My situation is slightly different but I have been given so much impetus and definition listening to Moran speak and read what she is putting out into the world! Before I wrap this piece up, and provide a conclusion/semi-coherent outro; a few points struck me regarding a recent interview with The Guardian – that shows why Moran is one of the finest voices in Britain at the moment:

“Your books and your sitcom Raised By Wolves are based on your real life. Do you ever worry that you’ll run out of material?

Within the panoply of fat, clever, working-class girls who really like to shag – I don’t think we’re overserved for those role models yet. Also, teenage girls are a cipher. Their concerns tell you precisely what the problems are with being an adult woman in any era. And right now, one in 10 teenage girls is being referred to mental health services. Girls are rejecting the idea of being an adult woman”.

The question/answer that properly caught my ear was this:

“You once said, when you’re thinking about the next day’s writing you salivate. Do you do anything particular when you’ve finished writing?

I don’t just salivate. I get tingly nips and my knees go warm. This [laptop] is my playing field, I’m like David Beckham there. I always time my finish so it’s exactly the minute before my kids come home from school. If I’ve smoked a lot, I’ll quickly have a shower so they can’t smell the fags”.

The interview covers everything from GCSEs, hairiness and masturbation – not in the same question! – and is a typically funny, accessible and memorable chat: considering how many guarded and phoned-in interviews you get now; it is refreshing seeing Moran so open and down-to-earth. Although those snippets I have quoted (legally, I hope: if not, then The Guardian has grounds to raise multiple lawsuits!); it is not hard to see why I, and many others, gravitate towards Caitlin Moran. I hope How to Be Famous: A Novel is not the only music-related offering we see from her. Her latest novel is a story that, although set back in the '90s, seems strangely appropriate and unchanged in 2018 – a reflection regarding social media’s impact on fame and the conflictions we have in music. I don’t know. What I do know is that, as I grope for an opening into the welcoming bosom of mainstream music media – perhaps not the most P.C. analogy/description I could have attached to my dreams – I keep sipping from the fountain of Moran (or something far less wanky!) and uncovering truth and motivation.

The final reason I wanted to talk about her was something she said in the aforementioned BBC Radio 6 Music interview: people do not escape to cities like Manchester to pursue ambitions and work in music. London has always been the go-to Mecca – that is where Moran is based – but, in actuality, I am embarking on relocation to Manchester – a chance to evade the boredom and haemorrhoids of the Home Counties and go mingle with some proper-boss people (I might get beaten up regularly!). It is a scary endeavour and a big risk, I realise that. It may not work or be slow to formulate (I am a little bit shi*ting it at the moment…) but I need to do something different and live somewhere that can accommodate my personality and does not seem so foreign – even if it means a brief stay that sees me come down to London instead. Among the doubting tones and northern clichés (apparently it always rains in Manchester and it isn’t all that), I am given much strength and motivation listening to/reading Caitlin Moran. As someone who is working-class and suffers from a cuisine-fusion of psychological troubles (clinical depression farts in the bed of Asperger’s; insomnia is already awake and anxiety is pacing the room…), getting to where I want to eventually go – a show on BBC Radio 6 Music, too, would be ace – is hard enough. Having someone like Caitlin Moran, who endured worse and is humble concerning the fact, out there in the world is invaluable. Make sure you snap up How to Be Famous: A Novel (details at the foot of this feature) and I will leave you with a final snippet from her Guardian interview. This quote personifies why she is dear to my heart and a bit of a role model:

“…Every book of mine is a list of topics I haven’t seen addressed, taboos that need to be busted, secrets that need to be told, things that I want to boggle at. What is everybody else not talking about or too scared to talk about?”

Caitlin Moran is in fine form and continues to ask the questions few of us dare. At a time where we are being given obfuscation and misled by those in power; it is just as well we have someone out in the media who is willing to show…

PROPER leadership, reality and clarity!

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Caitlin Moran’s How to Be Famous: A Novel is available from Thursday, 28th June, 2018 through Penguin Books - https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/1093443/how-to-be-famous/

PHOTOS/IMAGES: Getty Images/Press Association

INTERVIEW: Natalie Holmes

INTERVIEW:

Natalie Holmes

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IT has been exciting speaking with…

the Bristol-based songwriter Natalie Holmes about her latest single, Hideout. She reveals its background and reveals where she gets the energy to keep putting out material – she has released four successful E.P.s and shows no signs of slowing!

Holmes chats about Bristol and which musicians she is influenced by; what is coming up in terms of gigs; which upcoming artists we need to look out for; the advice she would give to musicians emerging – she ends the interview by selecting a rather underrated gem.

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

Hey! It’s been a bit of a mad one, actually. I’ve been working on a few top lines for some D.J.s; trying to get them all finished, recorded and sent over from the ‘studio’ (bedroom) whilst having a messy insomnia stint and working at the coffee job! But, the plan was to get it all out of the way and allow headspace for the release this week; so, mission accomplished!

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

Of course! My name is Natalie Holmes; I live in Bristol (U.K.) and am a singer/songwriter/musician/food nerd.

Hideout is your new single. What is the story behind it?

Hideout represents quite a small window in my life. I was battling with a relationship trying to make it work on and off for over a year. There was always something that pulled us together despite all the things that were clearly very wrong and I felt like my true self had to hide away.  On one of the occasions, when we started over, I had an overwhelming sensation that everything was OK now and I wanted to combine this with my increased detachment with material objects.

So, Hideout is about realising you don’t need any of the temporary things you think make you happy. At that moment, all you need is the universe and the person that makes you happiest. You lose the walls around you.

Might we see more new material a bit later in the year?

Definitely. I have a feeling Hideout is just the beginning of a new wave of love for what I do and the boundaries I can push with it! There’s so much more to come.

IN THIS IMAGE: Natalie Holmes' E.P., Calm Places, was released last year

You have already released four successful E.P.s. Where do you get the energy to keep putting out amazing material?!

Well, ‘amazing’ is a generous word to label everything I’ve released, but thank you! I’ll be honest: I can’t reign in the amount I write; I’d have twenty E.P.s out if it was that easy! But, I suppose, as a songwriter, you really want to get your best songs heard so releasing anything and everything would drown them out. It took a long time to pin down the songs that ended up on my E.P.s, but I don’t regret any of them. I think energy is something that comes instinctively with a song you’ve written and love - you can feel when it’s right...and the excitement and adrenaline push you through everything that comes with it.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Matt Greenwell Media

How do songs come to you? Will you sit and write or let inspiration strike?

Inspiration, nearly always.

It doesn’t take much for something to hit me hard and I’ll be scribbling down words and phrases or singing into my phone wherever I am. However, on the occasion that I’ve had a quiet few weeks in my head, I’ll just sit and play the piano and see what comes. Sometimes, that’s inspiration enough! If I had a real acoustic piano, I swear I would write two songs a day - the feel and sound of it make my whole being melt.

Which musicians did you tune into from a young age? Was there a single artist/moment that inspired you to get into music?

This question always makes me nervous as I don’t have the typical answer of being inspired by ‘classics’ that I was brought up on as a baby. My family aren’t particularly musical at all, but I am so grateful they put me in piano lessons when I was tiny. But, yes, I’m afraid to say I definitely grew up on S Club 7, Paramore and Avril Lavigne and only found out who Joni Mitchell was when I was in my twenties. It’s shameful. I was simply inspired by snippets of everything. I still listen to Let Go by Avril Lavigne now and am like: ‘Damn; these are great songs!’ The first couple of artists I began to idolise were Sara Bareilles, Ellie Goulding (first album) and Bon Iver.

However, in the last two years, I’ve been hit with a wave of artists that have really touched and inspired me on a whole new level; notably, Laura Mvula, whose music I fell in love with just before I wrote Hideout.

How important are Bristol and its people regarding your music?

I’ve never thought about that! I’m determined to stay in this absolutely glorious city for its positive, creative and earthy vibe. I feel grounded here, despite having moved house three times in the past year. However; I like to focus on the feeling that I could be OK anywhere, that my happiness isn’t because of the place I exist; or else I’d be leaving it behind extremely often! I feel lucky to have this beautiful place around me but feel like it’s more for the non-musician in me: it’s my escape when I need to get out and breathe, see friends; eat amazing food and visit all the wonderful independent business owners. It’s an unusually magical city community that I avoid tying in too much with work.

Saying that; I have incredible support here from friends and family as well as from the local radio and BBC Introducing. I never fully realise how many people in this city are supporting my music.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We are booking a band tour for the end of October! Dates aren’t set in stone yet but I know we are; starting at The Globe in Hay-on-Wye on 19th October, followed by dates in Bristol, Winchester; Birmingham, London; Leeds and more.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I’d love for Hideout to be the song that really gets out there and is heard. It feels like the right time and the right song as I’m so happy with the balance of commercial and musical traits in it. It would be so amazing to tour in October and sell out some venues: I really can’t wait for the day I can play a gig and feel a room completely full of people who are there fully to support me! There’s nothing quite like that chemistry.

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

There are so many! The one that is going to stick with me forever is getting the opportunity to tour with Above & Beyond, as their vocalist, on their world tour. It was singing in front of a sold-out Hollywood Bowl and Royal Albert Hall that showed me the enormity of what you can feel on stage; when there are THAT many beaming smiles in the audience and everyone is so together.

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

I would LOVE to tour with Sara Bareilles, Laura Mvula; Aurora...all artists that I truly believe in and admire. I imagine these girls are all insanely wonderful human beings too.

My rider would have to include some kind of creative salad box buffet and healthy sweet treats to get me through like banana bread, dried fruit and nuts. OH…and always, always Lindt Excellence 90%. The odd bottle of high-quality Italian red would also be on the cards…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

This takes time. I started uploading videos of me singing on YouTube in 2010. It’s taken me eight years to get to this point and I still haven’t ‘made it’. It’s really tough seeing other artists around you get their lucky break and you feel like you must be doing something wrong or you’re not good enough.

But; the way I think of it is the longer it takes, the longer you’ve got to grow in your own person and really appreciate being young whilst carving your music into something you’re truly proud of.  Then, when the world finally hears you, you know you did your best and you can be truly proud.

IN THIS PHOTO: LP/PHOTO CREDIT: British Vogue

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m not sure about ‘new’ in the general sense, but artists that I’ve been really into lately that are slightly less in the limelight would be: Francis and the Lights, LP; Martin Luke Brown and Balmorhea.

IN THIS PHOTO: Martin Luke Brown

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

Time for other things has become increasingly less since I moved out of my parents and have been tackling the R-word. However, I make sure I always make time for myself as it’s just so crucial. I love food, a lot, so either cooking or exploring the Bristol food and drink scene! Lately, I’ve been really struggling with insomnia and time away from music has been diminished as I’m finding less and less time where I’m actually functioning to get things done. I can’t count the days of no sleep as healthy downtime as it’s the one thing in my life that my brain can’t battle and it definitely isn’t refuelling.

Then, when I have a night of sleep, I’m like: ‘I must get everything done today whilst I have the mental capacity, just in case!’ But, on a whole, mental and physical wellbeing is hugely important to me and I make sure I get out and about on my bike whenever I can to break up the hours spent inside recording, writing or doing admin.

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).

Ooh, yay! As I mentioned her before; can you play Tokyo Sunrise by LP? Thank you!

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Follow Natalie Holmes

PHOTO CREDIT: Rob Potter Creative 

Official:

https://natalieholmesmusic.tumblr.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/_natalieholmes

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/natalieholmesmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/_natalieholmes/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuA8thhuxHBCzbgXaMK0M9g

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/31dQ6lbXKJp9yLgUhb8qkJ?si=vLc2im5vQTqc-N3TTcTjFw

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/natalieholmesmusic

INTERVIEW: InAbell

INTERVIEW:

InAbell

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THINGS are getting pretty busy and hectic…

for InAbell right now. The Israel-based artist talks to me about her single, Break Your Fall, and the inspiration behind the song. I ask what sort of themes and ideas we will get from her E.P., Humble Wishes – she discusses inspiration and artists that have compelled her.

I was excited to know whether any gigs were approaching and what InAbell gets up to away from music; if there are any new acts we need to look out for – she reveals her ambitions for the coming months.

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

Hi (smiles). Things are pretty intense. I'm working on a second album while the first E.P. is still not fully-released - so my days are filled with music creating and sharing. It's interesting.

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

Gladly. Music was always a major part of my life but, to a certain point, I was more a consumer of music than a creator. I was introduced to music at an early age, even though my parents don't work in the field. My taste has varied through the years between different genres. I always loved singing and I find it beautiful that its part of our natural built-in system.

Us human beings like chocolate; the attraction of sex and that love of music. Singing means sharing my voice and offering the listener the chance to connect with me. I always feel a sort of intimacy with people who tell me that they have heard me singing.

Tell me about the track, Break Your Fall. How did it start life? Is there a story behind it?

Break Your Fall started out instrumental. I wrote the simple line of octaves and mostly liked the sound of the instrument and the warm feeling when the bass comes in. I added lyrics and came with that to my brilliant producer, Roy Avital. Together, we elaborated the song to a more interesting level. The idea to include the harmoniser on the vocals came from Roy and I loved it immediately. That was the turning point in the song’s becoming. 

It's, basically, a song about supporting someone in a complex situation. It speaks about a person who is troubled in a twisted way and is going through a dark and obsessive issue. The track’s dynamic flow goes from a stable and collected to a point of losing control and feeling overwhelmed with emotion. 

It is from the E.P., Humble Wishes. Are there themes and life experiences that impacted the songs? Which song do you count as a highlight?

The whole E.P. is a product of a search. Every song has its story and is different in a way but I'm (overall) pretty pleased with the general flow of the whole thing. The first single that was released was Fresh Honey. I think it was an easier song to digest, while Break Your Fall is more minimalistic and artistic. The third and final single I'm about to release, before the full E.P., is called Nightgown - and I think that it's sort of a blend between the sweetness of Fresh Honey and the darkness of Break Your Fall.

How do songs come together and form? Do you set time to write – or do you let inspiration strike and piece together work gradually?

The songwriting process has changed for me in the past few years. The essence of the song usually comes up - sometimes it is unexpected - and when that happens I write down a few words and keep them for later editing. With my producer Roy, I found that it works out the best when I have a deadline in which I bring sketches of already composed and partially-produced songs. It takes me about a month and a half to bring enough material to that stage. After that, we ‘separate the boys from the men’ and pick out the good songs to continue with.

Humble Wishes took a long time to get together because Roy and I were still getting to know each other. These days, we are working on a second album and I think the process is coming together in a more effective way.

Will there be more material coming later in the year?

Sure. Nightgown, the third single, will be released around late-July and the full E.P. will be out around August/September. When I perform, I also play a few new songs from the album which is being worked on.

Which artists did you grow up listening to? Who do you rank as musical idols?

Joni Mitchell, Neil Young; Paul Simon and Sting on one hand: Erykah Badu, Jill Scott and D'Angelo on the other. James Blake, Radiohead; Moses Sumney, Fever Ray and other musicians active these days are also a major influence. 

Can we see you tour this year? What gigs do you have coming along?

Sure. I have a double-single release concert on 5th July in Israel and, hopefully, my band and I will take a trip to perform in London around January if all goes as planned.

If we came and saw you play; what sort of songs/setup would we see?

It’s very interesting to transform these songs from studio to live since there's so much sound involved. We put a lot of effort into maintaining the high sound quality to the stage. My drummer uses S.P.D. pads that have different sounds for every song and I have a set of vocal effects - also changing from one track to the other. Some of them I play live during the show and others are triggered to turn on and off when planned.

We are a trio and the third player is one of my closest friends - who is also an amazing guitar player. You should totally come and check us out!

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

To take over the world with a storm, of course. Or, at least keep creating and performing to different ears all over.

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

I remember my first vocal effect gadget. It was the Boss VE-20 and I used to enjoy playing and performing with it. One of its features is creating a robot-style voice. I once performed with the pedal and accidentally turned on the robot sound. It happened while I was singing a soft emotional song and, needless to say, destroyed the atmosphere (smiles).

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Blue - Joni Mitchell; Mama’s Gun - Erykah Badu and In Rainbows – Radiohead.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To keep in mind that there's a long-distant run ahead - so it's a good idea to take a deep breath every now and then.

IN THIS PHOTO: Agnes Obel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I've recently discovered Agnes Obel and love her; highly recommended.

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

Well, yes; I also illustrate and design. I make all the graphics for my music myself and also work for other musicians and customers. I also practice jiu-jitsu as a major hobby for around six years. In fact, in the video clip for Break Your Fall; you can see me doing some moves...

The other male actor is my actual trainer from the dojo where I work out. 

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).

Sure! Kimbra – Everybody Knows

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Follow InAbell

Official:

https://www.inabellmusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/inabell.music/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/inabell_music/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7mST3kQ7nO7i94aZnEromT

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL8-7DGNi-hE8YxugcAU-8Q?view_as=subscriber

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/inbaloop

INTERVIEW: WOLVES

INTERVIEW:

WOLVES

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THE Los Angeles boys of WOLVES…

talk with me about their latest single, Freaky, and the story behind it. I ask them about the songs mix of Rock and Pop and whether that was a natural unity; how the band got together and what Los Angeles is like in terms of sound/feel.

The guys look ahead at ambitions this year and discuss touring plans; I ask about influences and which artists are important to them; they recommend some new artists and tell me how they chill away from music.

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

Hey! Doing well, thank you! This week’s been really good to us so far. Freaky is already at #90 on the Mediabase Activator Charts and it just went live on Spotify/Apple Music/etc. yesterday!

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

We’re WOLVES and we’re made up of three guys: Marc Avery, Sean Carney and Rocky Sands. Marc is our lead vocalist, Sean plays guitar/keyboards/sings background vocals and Rocky plays drums/guitar/keyboards.

Tell me about the new song, Freaky. Is there a story behind it?

Freaky is all about embracing who you are and letting that freak flag fly! Like we sing in the chorus: “If you freak/ let it show!” Like 99% of our songs; Freaky was written and produced by the three of us. One day, we were in the studio and I came across this crazy vocal chop sample and started playing what became the song’s lead melody line. Sean laid down the chords underneath it and we knew we had a little piece of magic on our hands. The song came together pretty fast…I think the whole track and topline were done by the next time we got together.

It was kind of like lightning in a bottle because most WOLVES songs never happen that quickly. 

The song matches Pop, Urban and Rock sounds. Does that triple-threat approach reflect a curious musical approach in the band? Are restlessness and experimentation the key to everything you do?!

We kind of just tend to make the music we want to hear and we can’t help how our influences come through in the creative process. I think we’ve come across a (really) unique sound in WOLVES that’s entirely reflective of our three diverse musical backgrounds. We definitely do love experimenting in the studio - I guess you could say we are a bit restless. We try to hit a new creative level with each song that we do, and we strive to be different every time.

How did WOLVES get together? When did you meet one another?

All three of us actually met a while ago. We were all writing and producing songs for other people and had been trying to crack into the Pop songwriting world for a long time. Sean and I met at the ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO back in 2014 and stayed friends ever since. I met Marc during a friend’s birthday party at Dave & Buster’s in Hollywood. I was pretty drunk at the time and he and I randomly got to talking about how we were both songwriters. I don’t know how I remembered but I texted him the next day and we started writing songs together shortly thereafter.

At some point, when we were working, he looked at me and said: “Dude…I’ve always wanted to be in a band more than anything.” I confessed to him that I did too and we decided on the spot to form a band with each other. I knew we needed a third person who could bring the ‘weird’ into the mix, so I called my buddy Sean and the rest, as they say, is history.

Does that name reflect a hunger and sense of attack? Are you a pretty ambitious band?

It definitely does. We’re all pretty chill guys, but we’re absolutely an ambitious band. We set our goals on the highest level of success. We want to have songs that hit the top of the charts because we know we can compete with the best of them out there right now - and we want to take our show on the road and play in front of as many people as we possibly can. There, I said it; we’re officially putting it out in the universe in hopes that it comes true! (Smiles).

What is L.A. like for the creative mind? Is it a brilliant place to be?

Los Angeles is a beautiful beast of dichotomy. It’s absolutely brilliant and bustling with energy but that energy is bipolar. L.A. is stuck in the past in some parts and catapulting towards the future in others. This city is simultaneously inspirational and disheartening; it’s inclusive on a familial level, yet as cutthroat as corporate America. It’s got its ups and its downs, but I think most of the creative minds here can agree that the highs outweigh the lows and our collective pursuit of passion makes the juice worth the squeeze.

Will there be more music from you guys down the line?

1000% yes. Stay tuned; we’ve got a lot more coming!

Give me a sense of the music you grew up around. What would have been in your record collections?

I (Rocky) grew up listening to anything from The Beach Boys to Guns N’ Roses to Shania Twain. The Pop was strong in me from very early on. Marc grew up listening to a ton of Michael Jackson and Marvin Gaye and Sean was a big fan of anything from Jazz to old-school Hip-Hop. When you listen to our music, you can definitely hear all of those influences seeping through from time to time.

Where are you heading on tour? Where can we catch you?

We’re pretty much staying put in L.A. for the time being, focusing on finishing up enough material to roll out our first full-length album. But, hopefully, after that, we’ll be hitting the road everywhere and anywhere!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Honestly, we’d love to see Freaky blow up and become a hit! We think there’s something magical about that song and we hope the world agrees. Hopefully, then we’ll have the opportunity to go on tour and play our music for a whole lot of people.

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

Hearing our debut single, Animal, on the radio for the first time was a pretty insane experience that none of us will ever forget.

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

It would be a total dream come true for us to either open for Coldplay or Kanye West. Those guys are playing the kind of shows that we have always aspired to play and we are obviously huge fans of their music.

As far as riders go, we’re pretty simple guys - we’d be stoked to split a pepperoni pizza.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

BE UNIQUE! Everybody is making stuff that sounds like everybody else right now and music never moves forward that way. Don’t play it safe: dare to be different.

IN THIS PHOTO: Evalyn

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a ton of artists in our circle who we really love. Our good friend Evalyn is about to drop an awesome second E.P. and I guarantee you’ll be hearing it all over Spotify and Apple Music in the next few months. She collaborated on the entire thing with our buddy nicopop. another fantastically talented writer/producer. I also have to give a major shout out to my good buddy Evan Blum, the hardest-working songwriter in Hollywood. Look out for him shopping for discounted avocados at any given Whole Foods in West Los Angeles.

IN THIS PHOTO: Evan Blum/PHOTO CREDIT: @bgcinemahouse

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

We’re all pretty big fans of video games and going out for the occasional whiskey. Working out is important to all of us, too - gotta stay fit for the ladies! Music is never really far from our minds, though, no matter what we’re doing.

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).

Marc: Better Now by Post Malone

Sean: Californication by Red Hot Chili Peppers

Rocky: Home Is Such a Lonely Place by Blink-182

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Follow WOLVES

Official:

https://www.thebandwolves.com/home/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thebandwolves

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thebandwolves/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thebandwolves/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCa_XBa6VQVcP91KynnWgPbQ

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/track/3HiDLtNn2b6jPv8mPwNPVa

FEATURE: Sisters in Arms: An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. III)

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms

IN THIS PHOTO: Salt Ashes/PHOTO CREDIT: Milli Lune 

An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. III)

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I may put out another part…

IN THIS PHOTO: Amber Mark

of this feature but, for now, I will put it to bed with a fantastic assortment of songs – covering multiple genres and locations. It is a mixture of red-hot and soothing blues; a veritable spectrum of musical colours that is guaranteed to end the day with a memorability and impact. Take a moment – or quite a few… - to dip into the teasing selection that will get into the head, heart…

IN THIS PHOTO: ILL

AND blood.  

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherrwise): Getty Images

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PHOTO CREDIT: Chris Eckert

Eleanor Friedberger – Make Me a Song

Mondegreen – Unsung Hero

Me for Queen – Loose End

Esther & Fatou – Home

MYLK – Haiku

PHOTO CREDIT: Kenny McCracken

Abi Wade – Hawk in Your Side

PHOTO CREDIT: Rosie Marks

Paige Bea – Your Echo

MADI – Intimate

Ishani – Insomnia

Austel – Anaesthesia

PHOTO CREDIT: Debbie Scanlan

Salt Ashes – Girls

Alba Plano – Out There (Blue Lab Beats Remix)

PHOTO CREDIT: @ldzbar

FRANKIIE – Dream Reader

Heagzy – Here to Stay

PHOTO CREDIT: CCZH Photography

Hollie Haines – Like I Used To

ILL – Power

PHOTO CREDIT: Austin Hargrave : Photographer

Maren Morris – Rich

Amber Mark – Love Is Stronger Than Pride

Kim Petras – Can’t Do Better

Kailee Morgue - F**K U

Danielle Lewis – Live Forever

Hayley Kiyoko (feat. Kehlani) - What I Need

FEATURE: Sisters in Arms: An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. II)

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms

IN THIS PHOTO: IAMDDB 

An All-Female, Summer-Ready Playlist (Vol. II)

__________

THE second part of this feature…

IN THIS PHOTO: Brandy Zdan/PHOTO CREDIT: @alyssegafkjen 

brings together some sun-ready songs that will get us all jumping and energised – there are those that are a bit more sedate and thoughtful, too. In any case; it is an all-female playlist that spans genres and will keep the fussiest of music listeners interested and occupied. Take a good look at the selection and I’m sure you’ll find a few songs that…

IMAGE CREDIT: Haiku Hands

WILL be on regular rotation.  

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Getty Images

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Matilda – You

Ruby Francis – Heart Rate

Kris Angelis – Photobooth

Jessie Munro – Under Fire

Brandy Zdan – Get to You

SIIGHTS – GOT IT

Toya Delazy – London Town (Wes My Meds Remix)

IAMDDB – Drippy

Chelsea Jade – Laugh It Off

PHOTO CREDIT: Curious Rose Photography

Anna Pancaldi – What I’ve Become

GIRLI – Day Month Second

Jena Rose – Reasons (Dirty Werk Radio Remix)

Valley Latini – Pay My Rent

Mags on Earth - CRYBABY

LENN - Cheap Talk

Sink Ya Teeth – Substitutes

PHOTO CREDIT: Laura-Lynn Petrick

For Esmé - For Others

PHOTO CREDIT: Historiq

Chess Galea – Never Be Another You

Saba Abraha – Do’s & Dont’s

Haiku Hands – Jupiter

Seil Lien – A Little While More

PHOTO CREDIT: Alex Wall

Hatchie – Bad Guy

Wyvern Lingo – Crawl

INTERVIEW: Rachael Sage

INTERVIEW:

Rachael Sage

___________

IT is hard to find where Rachael Sage…

gets her energy from but, as she says in this interview, the work and passion she has for it drive her forward! I ask the New York-based songwriter if there’s a story behind her latest track, Spark, and what inspired her album, Myopia – she recommends some new artists and talks about N.Y.C.’s contrasts.

Sage tells me what it was like recording her album and whether she gets time to relax away from music; which three albums mean the most to her; if we can see her in the U.K. soon – she gives some great advice for songwriters emerging right now.

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

My name is Rachael Sage and I’m a touring addict! What that means is I am incredibly lucky to be able to create my own original work and am perpetually grateful to listeners around the world - especially in the U.K. - who have graciously embraced my eclectic, Alt-Pop music; allowing me to get up on stage regularly and forge meaningful relationships through music. 

To anyone brand new to my songs, I hope what you will discover by listening is a lexicon of poetry and melody that encourages positivity by making what’s extremely personal, universal. I am always aiming to break barriers and mitigate loneliness because I believe with all of my being that we are all inextricably connected by our humanity. 

Spark is your new track. It seems like the boldest and most ambitious you have created! What inspired its creation?

I was inspired to write Spark by the moment of absolute possibility and hope that arises during a first kiss with someone you already know you have a deep connection with; you don’t know each other that well yet but the chemistry feels magical and meaningful because it is genuine and undeniable. It’s not a song only about passion, but about a kind of purity that exists early on between two soon-to-be-lovers before too many expectations have taken hold - and when everything feels absolutely authentic, exciting; vulnerable and inevitable. 

It is from the album, Myopia. Like the single; what sort of ideas and stories compelled the music on the L.P.?

The title track, Myopia, is very much about the relationship between what we think: the thoughts we allow to take root and grow in our minds’ eye and how that actually colors our view of the world around us. It’s an empowering song about recognizing that the resources you already have are exactly what you need to create the life you want; if you let go of past pain, negative energy and/or current stress.  The concept of vision, including aspects of blindness or narrowmindedness as well as positive visualization and fruition, run through other songs on the album including This Darkness, which is about truly trying to see injustice or suffering through the eyes of someone else and how that kind of vision essentially comprises empathy.

PHOTO CREDIT: Bill Bernstein

Alive is a very upbeat, positive song about truly recognizing the gifts of vitality, passion; love and even how one may grow from one’s from one’s mistakes. Another song, Haunted by Objects, looks at the issue of hoarding and hopefully destigmatizes a very common urge many people have to cling to too many things they believe they need; that are actually weighing them down, literally. There are a dozen new songs on the album and they’re all very eclectic - but the thread running through them all is this concept of examining myopia i.e. nearsightedness from every angle: romantically, socio-politically and, certainly, in terms of what we deem important in our everyday lives.

What was it like recording the album? Did you bring any new disciplines and structures to the plate? What makes this album different in your mind?

I played a lot more electric guitar on this album and a couple new axes were in my arsenal!  Sadly, a renowned and beloved guitar store in N.Y.C.’s East Village called Matt Umanov closed while I was recording and I ended up adopting a gorgeous Gretsch guitar that helped me channel a bit more of a Rock ‘n’ Rock attitude on songs like Snowed In, Olivia and my punk version of the Yiddish classic, Umru Meine.

There are also some very luminary singers I respect enormously who popped by the studio to add their harmony magic to the mix; including rising Irish singer-songwriter Fiona Harte, Pop-Rock twins Nalani & Sarina and Americana songstress Gabrielle Louise. It felt really great to be able to include some of my fierce, vibrant female musician friends on the record - and certainly added a lot of laughter to the sessions!

You have created a whole lot of music in your career so far! How did you keep that creative energy going?! Do you notice an evolution as a songwriter?

A lot of people have asked me how I’ve maintained my energy through the years and it’s really very simple: I love my work. Since I’ve been a little girl, I embraced music with all of my being and it’s given me so much back. It’s enabled me to work eighteen-hour days and be reluctant to go to bed because I was so into what I was doing; so fully captured by the creative process.

Touring has also been a huge gift and given me the opportunity to meet amazing people from all walks of life, in cities and small towns all over the world. I think if anything my evolution has been from being a young songwriter working out my own ‘issues’ (gratefully) through song to a mature woman as eager to write impressionistic, poetic material as to share details about my own story.

I find equal value and inspiration in other peoples’ stories now and do my best to incorporate a balance between fact, fiction and imagination - and toward crafting something that’s hopefully universal and inspiring in some way to others.

New York is your base. How important are the city and its people to your music?

I adore N.Y.C. and will probably live here forever…but, at the same time, the cliché is definitely true that absence makes the heart grow fonder when it comes to such a bustling, intense place. I know that having lived here most of my life is extremely defining, but I also mourn for a time a few years back when more music clubs and artists were able to thrive because it wasn’t so prohibitive to live here.

Nonetheless, what I love about N.Y.C., as whole absolutely remains: the passion, intensity and determination of people who are able to survive here and contribute to the diversity (of N.Y.C.). People are very focused and ambition here to be sure which energizes me; and yet they are also very down to earth and open, in my experience. I feel exactly the same about London and consider it to be my ‘home away from home’ for those reasons!  

Have you got any musical heroes that made you want to follow music? Who do you rank as idols?

Among a few of my early, as well as later musical inspirations, are Carole King, Elvis; Buddy Holly, Elton John; David Bowie, Elvis Costello; Sinead O’Connor, Maria McKee; Sarah McLachlan and of course, The Beatles. In terms of creative inspiration, I’ve always tried to avoid the word ‘idol’ because I think it’s dangerous for an artist to aspire to be too much like anyone else; but two brilliant, insightful and musicians have absolutely made a huge impact on me in recent years and those are Folk icon Judy Collins and Synth-Pop legend Howard Jones! The kindness and encouragement both have shown me while touring together has taught me so much, artistically and personally. 

Can we expect a little stopover in the U.K. at all?

I’m really hoping to be back next year! I love touring the U.K. so much and look forward to sharing all these new songs live as soon as possible!

Do you have any ambitions to fulfil before the end of the year?

I would love to write a bunch of new songs! This past year has been so busy - with recording the new album, touring the U.S. with Howard Jones and playing festivals internationally - that I simply haven’t had much of a chance to reflect on all of my adventures or process everything creatively, through music.

Being off the road a bit enables me to warm up all those muscles again and to, hopefully, do some extra practising as I’d liked to keep getting better as a guitarist as well! On a non-musical note, I’ve been on a huge spring cleaning kick lately and am basically going through every closet and shelf and purging any piece of clothing, paper, knick-knack or whatever the case may be if I haven’t used it in the last five years. It feels great and, hopefully, it’s a cleansing that will allow new energy to flow into my home and my life! 

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

Playing Union Chapel with the brilliant Howard Jones last year in London was one of the highlights of my musical life. Being able to share such a wonderful experience with an artist I admire so deeply was a huge gift - and the acoustics in that venue are pretty much unparalleled!

Which three albums mean the most to you, would you say?

Carole King /Tapestry; Elvis Costello/Spike and Glen Hansard/Rhythm and Repose.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find a safe local venue where you can perform live as often as possible; figure out what feels authentically you as a performer and don’t be afraid to make mistakes - because you’ll only grow from taking chances!

IN THIS PHOTO: Seth Glier

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Of course; as label-owner of MPress Records, I’m partial to my own artists! I highly encourage everyone to check out singer-songwriter Seth Glier who has been steadily building his career in the U.S. as a touring artist and whose new album, Birds, is absolutely brilliant! I’ve also been really enjoying rising Irish artist Fiona Harte whose new E.P. will be released very soon. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Fiona Harte

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

I do my best to balance work with play but, as they say, if you love what you do you’ll never work a day in your life! That being said, I love watching movies, crafting; designing my own stage clothes and painting.

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

I Want You – Elvis Costello & the Attractions

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Follow Rachael Sage

Official:

http://rachaelsage.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/rachaelsage

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/rachaelsagepage

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/rachael_sage/

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/rachaelsage

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/7EedWEoxpzbiPNkqkDp3Vw