INTERVIEW: Lindsay Ell

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR 

Lindsay Ell

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HAVING played Country 2 Country…

PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

back in March, the talented songwriter Lindsay Ell has barely had time to put her feet on the ground and relax. I have been asking her about the album, The Project, and which songs she views as highlights; what it was like playing the illustrious Country 2 Country – she reveals what comes next for her.

Lindsay Ell explains how important Nashville’s people and sounds are to her; which artists inspired her at a young age; if she has advice for upcoming songwriters - the U.S. songwriter reveals some treasured musical memories (catch her play Borderline, London on 16th Oct and Night & Day Cafe, Manchester on 17th Oct).

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

Great! It’s nice to be back in Nashville for a couple days.

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

I am a now Nashvillian, as of eight years ago: I’m originally from Calgary, Canada. I play Country with flares of Soul, Blues and Rock in it: kind of like if you combined Sheryl Crow, Keith Urban and John Mayer together.

PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

Talk to me about Country 2 Country. What was it like playing there?!

Playing Country 2 Country for my first time in March was a bucket-list moment. There is an energy in The O2 that is hard to describe in words. Fans in the U.K. have such a passion for music and you can feel it standing on stage at The O2. They care about every word you sing and every note I play. It’s nice to have an audience that is right in the palm of your hands.

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Your album, The Project, is out. What is the derivation of that title? What was the first song that started the album?

The first song that started The Project was Waiting on You. When my producer and I sat down for our first music meeting, it was a bluesy tones of Waiting on You that made us both look up from the speakers and be like: ‘We have something here; this is where we start’. 

I wanted to call the album The Project because it felt like a science project of me discovering who I am. It was like I was going through different forms of experimentation to putting together the puzzle of what I wanted my debut album to look like. So, when we were looking for a title…The Project seemed like the only thing that was right.

PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR

Are there themes and story arcs that connect the songs? Do you have a favourite cut?

The overall theme of the record is me being at a happy point in my life; writing from a place where I’m grateful for what I have; the friends that surround me and the love in my life. From a place of happiness like that, you can write from a perspective that allows you to appreciate things you don’t always notice.

My favorite song would be a tie between two.  I really love the song, Castle, because I feel, musically, it allowed me to really get some of the guitar tones recorded that I wanted to express on this record. Castle also talks about not taking for granted the things that surround us every day. Sometimes, in life, we get so focused on always getting the newest and brightest next thing: bigger houses, faster cars….no matter where we’re at, we always find a way to want more. Castle talks about trying to look at everything you have, today, at this moment - and being grateful for it. 

My other favorite on this record is Worth the Wait. I feel that, sometimes, we need to work too hard for the things we want in life and, therefore, need to wait longer than we want for them. But, it’s in the fight and the journey that what makes it really worth it in the end. 

What comes next? Will there be more material this year – or do you want to get this album out and as far as possible?

I am currently writing the next record as we speak and am so excited for fans to hear this new music. I feel that Kristian Bush, my producer, and I will be getting into the studio near the end of this year. So, you might be able to hear sneak peeks of something near the end of the year - but, new music will probably be coming in 2019.

PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR 

Do you recall the musicians and albums that inspired you when you were growing up?

Shania Twain was a huge role model for me growing up. Sheryl Crow and Tuesday Night Music Club was a record I played on-repeat. Bonnie Raitt, Stevie Ray Vaughan; Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton were all huge influences to me growing up. 

Based out of Nashville; how important are the city and its people regarding your sound and drive?

I love living in Nashville. It’s such a beautiful community here of which I feel supported by my peers and fellow artists. Nashville really cultivates a family atmosphere - which is rare and sometimes hard to find. 

PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

In 2018, I want to solidify getting a top-10 on Country radio as well as securing a major tour for next year. We’ve had such an incredible past year – and, over the next few months, we’ll be planning gigs. So, 2019 should be exciting!

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

There are so many amazing memories. Getting to tour with Brad Paisley on the Weekend Warrior World Tour was so incredible; being able to trade licks with him on stage every night. 

Playing at the Country Music Association Awards for my first time, playing the guitar for Carrie Underwood was amazing. Also; having my first official feature on Keith Urban’s Graffiti U album (on Horses) and getting to play it live for the first time with him a couple weeks ago was a moment I will never forget!

PHOTO CREDIT: Luke Dyson

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find out what you want in your heart and never lose sight of that. 

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Follow Lindsay Ell

PHOTO CREDIT: BMG/BBR  

Official:

https://www.lindsayell.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/officiallindsayell/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/lindsayell

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/lindsayell/

YouTube:

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

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4lpA7MWpQpY7hKkwfLxw2Q

INTERVIEW: EMM

INTERVIEW:

EMM

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IT has been a pleasure…

speaking with EMM about her new single, No Gods, and how it came together. The U.S. songwriter talks about the feeling in her country right now; whether she thinks female artists are put into holes and boxed-in; what she hopes to achieve before the end of the year – EMM discusses overcome psychological hurdles and coming out the other side.

I was keen to know which three albums are most important to her; some upcoming musicians we should keep an eye out for; whether she gets much time to chill away from music – EMM ends the interview by selecting a fantastic track.

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

Hey, Sam. Thanks for taking the time. It’s been pretty busy - just prepping for a show on Sunday and working on promoting my first release. We also have a second release coming August 3rd called Dirty so I’m preparing for that as well.

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

Sure. My artistry is built around integrating solid messages I’m passionate about into easily-digestible Pop songs. I write and produce everything I make and I have a soft spot for women’s issues. I was raised by an Opera singer and a Classical harpist so Classical music is in my blood - but I am really inspired by people like Freddie Mercury, Prince and Janet Jackson.

No Gods is your new single. It seems to look at corruption and governments. Is there a particular inspiration behind it?

When we aren’t empathizing with each other, we end up dehumanizing one another and people get treated poorly; whether that’s through a screen on Facebook or through harmful rhetoric in the lives of our political leaders. A lack of empathy is so dangerous. The chorus of No Gods says: “You can’t make me wanna be like you - out of my mind”. It’s in reference to the divisive and harmful conversations we have with each other, particularly over social media. The verses are about the irony of using ‘God’ to justify treating humans like sh*t.

I believe that every single human being is sacred and should be treated like they have sparks of divinity within them - no matter the race, gender; sexual preference, amount of money...whatever.

Being based in the U.S.; is it quite a stressful and divided time? Do you think things will improve?

I think, for my generation, we all feel afraid sometimes when we see what’s happening in the world. But, I have a lot of faith in Generation Z. They seem to be much more tolerant and kind than some of the generations that came before them.  

It seems you take risks and do not like to be boxed-in. Do you think female artists are defined and pushed to perform a certain way?

Yes. Absolutely. I think women in music have a long history of men trying to control what they do behind the scenes. Women that know what they want or take risks are usually considered a threat to the order of the system. Part of the problem is (just) that there aren’t enough women in power at the labels yet. I think, a lot of times, we’re afraid to say something political or anything that could make men that are writing our checks feel uncomfortable. It’s a big part of why I stay independent.

Do you think more material will arrive before the end of the year? What are you working on?

Yes. My squad and I wrote about fifty songs in five months - and we have about twenty we absolutely love. Several of those will come out this year.

You had to tackle New York at age sixteen and faced psychological troubles and industry evils. Did that experience give you strength and a harder skin – has it been hard adapting, in a way?

I talk a lot about mental-health on my first mixtape, Burning in the Dark. I had to process through a lot of awful experiences. There were a few very dark years for me where I had a lot of suicidal thoughts. I am healed now and I’m thankful that I went through what I did because a lot of other people have told me that the music I made in that period helped them choose to stay here. So, yes, it was super-hard. But, I feel kind of unbreakable now.

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

I want to tour. I mostly want to keep working hard every day and doing what I love. I know what it’s like to have to work for ten dollars an hour and barely make rent so I’m honestly just so thankful to be making money and waking up every day and making music.

PHOTO CREDIT: @ksarrico

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

I will definitely come to the U.K. when I tour. When the announcement comes out, it will be on my website…still in rehearsal mode now, though.

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

I look back really fondly on the songs I wrote in my childhood and adolescent years. There’s something really magical about the songs a girl writes in her room with a guitar or a keyboard before anyone has told her to try to be marketable. Haha.

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

Songs in A Minor by Alicia Keys

Because it was my first C.D. as a kid and I played it a million times. I also ended up getting my start in New York surrounded by her team so it will always be special to me.

The Writing’s on the Wall by Destiny’s Child

Because it taught me how to love myself as a young girl.

Control by Janet Jackson

Because it never stops inspiring me.

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

I am obsessed with Coldplay. I would love to open for them. My rider would probably just be a lot of food. I just love eating.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Hmm. There’s so much. Everyone has an opinion about what you should do and you can try to learn from them but, at the end of the day, you are the artist. Your vision is what matters. Find people that respect that. Also; don’t expect anyone to work harder to make your career pop off then you do. If you’re getting a thousand doors slammed in your face, you’re definitely on the right track.

IN THIS PHOTO: Diana Gordon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Diana Gordon. She’s a genius. I’m completely obsessed with her. I am also obsessed with this guy, Extremely Bad Man. His music is so soulful.

IN THIS IMAGE: The album cover of Extremely Bad Man's album, Love Is Pure (out 13th July)/IMAGE CREDIT: Russ Murphy

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

I love being on the water. I’m originally from a town on Lake Michigan, so any time I can swim is awesome for me.

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 think you should play Kool-Aid by Diana Gordon. Can’t go wrong. Thanks so much for your time, Sam!

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Follow EMM

Official:

https://www.emminreallife.com

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/emminreallife

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/emminreallife

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/emminreallife

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/emminreallife

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1pYPWJEmCbWjcqnxw3qcyo?si=8cJSZ9i1

INTERVIEW: Stephen Chopek

INTERVIEW:

Stephen Chopek

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THE awesome Stephen Chopek…

provides a full and revealing interview where he talks about his latest single, Radio Caroline, and whether he has any direct listening experience with the legendary pirate station. I ask Chopek about future plans regarding material; which artists have been influential to him – he talks about the music scene in Memphis (where he is based).

The songwriter looks ahead and reveals touring plans; which upcoming artists we should get behind; a couple of treasured memories from his career so far; the advice he would give new artists – he ends the interview with a rather unexpected, if memorable, song selection.

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

Hello, Sam! I’m doing well, thanks. I spent most of last week getting settled after returning home from the first leg of my summer tour. (During the second half of June, I drove 4500 miles for eighteen days through ten states to play twenty-one shows in nineteen cities.) I’ll be home for July before heading out again in August.

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

The short story:

New Jersey native and Memphis resident, Stephen Chopek is currently on tour in support of his latest single, “Radio Caroline”. He's travelled the world as a drummer with some of today's top artists. More recently, he's writing his own music which has been described as "a skillfully crafted tapestry of folk, roots, punk, and pop”.

To fill in the blanks: I was born and raised in New Jersey and started playing the drums when I was nine. I played in bands, school groups and youth orchestras throughout grammar and high schools. In college, I performed with percussion ensembles and Rock bands. During that time, I also started writing and recording my own music on a four-track cassette recorder. After graduating university, I studied privately with Billy Martin (drummer from Medeski Martin & Wood) and Jazz percussionist Leon Parker. Through my studies with Leon, I was introduced to guitarist Charlie Hunter. That meeting led me to become the drummer in Charlie’s band from 2000-2002. After that gig, I toured with John Mayer for a year; then Marc Broussard, Jesse Malin; The Alternate Routes, Todd Carey; The Everymen, The Pimps of Joytime and many others.

In 2008, I took a yearlong break from drumming for a volunteer position in New York City with Americorps (which is kind of like a domestic Peace Corps). During that time, my music pursuit switched from drums to guitar and vocals. I took guitar lessons, worked on my singing and wrote new songs. For most of 2009, I was busking in the N.Y.C. subways during the day and attending open mic events at night. It was a big learning curve to step out from behind the drums and onto center stage. I got back into drumming full-time in 2010 while continuing to write songs. See Through, my first solo album, was recorded and released in 2012. Playing local shows eventually led to out of town gigs and then solo tours along the east coast.

Matters of the heart brought me to Memphis in 2014 and I’ve been here ever since. (My then-girlfriend and I got married in October 2017.) I keep busy in and around town playing drums with some of the many great artists currently making music in Memphis: John Paul Keith, Any LaVere; Motel Mirrors, Dave Cousar; Mike Doughty and Shannon McNally to name a few.

In 2015, I released two E.P.s and my second album, Things Moving On Their Own Together, and supported that with U.S. tours throughout 2016. I released a third E.P. in 2017 (and more touring). My new single, Radio Caroline - with The Ballad of Cash & Dean on side-B - was released online and on 45 R.P.M. vinyl in April. The new album will be out in the fall (with more touring).

Radio Caroline is your latest track. Do you remember when Radio Caroline was on the air? Why did you decide to write about the pirate station?

The original Radio Caroline was before my time so I don’t remember when it was on the air (but I listen to it now online). I’ve always loved music that came out of England in the early-1960s. Through learning about those bands, Radio Caroline was often mentioned as an important part of the music scene at that time. They were a U.K. pirate radio station founded in 1964 that broadcasted from a ship on the open waters to avoid the BBC’s control of the airwaves.

They played records that no other station was spinning but that a lot of young people wanted to hear. It was music that eventually made its way to the masses and changed the world. I always appreciated their support of early Rock-and-Roll and admired their D.I.Y. ethos. My song is a humble tribute to their efforts and the impact they had.

Do you think there will be more material coming along? What are you working on right now?

There is definitely more material coming along. My new full-length album, Begin the Glimmer, is recorded, mixed and currently being mastered. The artwork is complete and the first single will be out soon; followed by the release in October.

Memphis is where you are based. What is the city like in terms of inspiration and local talent?

There are infinite sources of inspiration in Memphis. So much has happened here in terms of the creation and development of popular music. Howlin' Wolf, B.B. King; Ike Turner, Johnny Cash; Roy Orbison, Jerry Lee Lewis; Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley; Al Green, Booker T. & the M.G.’s; Big Star, The Oblivians; Lucero…and the list goes on. Music history in Memphis is deep and you can trace its roots with a short drive down south along the Mississippi River.

The current scene is also rich with incredible talent in many genres - Jazz, Blues; Country, Americana; Garage-Rock, Roots; Punk, Experimental; Metal, Singer-Songwriter and Hip-Hop. It’s a tight-knit community so there’s also a lot of collaborating.

Memphis has a rawness that’s encouraging for artists of all levels to try different things and grow in new directions.

How did music come into your life? Which artists did you bond with early on?

Music came into my life through my parents’ records. There were a lot of American Songbook standards by Cole Porter, Irving Berlin; George and Ira Gershwin and Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn. Singers like Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles; Ella Fitzgerald, Johnny Hartman; Tony Bennet and Joe Williams. There were also contemporary albums by The Beatles, Billy Joel and Paul Simon. The ‘modern’ music was what initially resonated with me; along with my older sister’s collection of Joan Jett, Go-Go’s; Adam Ant, Duran Duran etc.

My parents encouraged music lessons for my sister and I at an early age. My sister Claudia is now an in-demand violinist based in New York City. She’s been working with Moby, Hurray for the Riff Raff and Father John Misty. I tried different instruments before the drums chose me. I’ve been following them ever since and they’ve taken me to many incredible places with amazing people.

You also work as John Mayer’s drummer. Is that experience something you bring into your own work?

Absolutely. All of my previous work/play opportunities have been valuable learning experiences. Those lessons stay with me as I move on to each new phase of my career.

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

I was on tour in April through the Midwest and along the East Coast in June. In August, I’ll be heading to Arkansas, Oklahoma; Kansas, Iowa; Minnesota, Wisconsin and Missouri. During October, I’ll be going through the South and back towards the East Coast.

Might we see you in the U.K. at all?

Radio Caroline D.J. Chris Pearson recently asked me the same question. I don’t have any plans at the moment for U. K. tour dates but I’m working on it. I’ll be sure to let you know when I’m on the way.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

My goals for 2018 are releasing new music and getting it out to the people. I make sure that my songs are available on the major online platforms and do my best to play live in as many cities as possible. It’s a one-man D.I.Y. operation right now so I’m doing all that I can in a 24-hour day.

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

There are so many that it’s hard to choose: some are from long ago and others as current as earlier this year. The first one that comes to mind is when I was on my first tour and realized that I was making a living as a full-time musician. That was a powerful moment….

More recently, I was traveling through the Midwest and had an eleven-hour drive from one gig to the next. I played in Fargo, ND on Saturday night and had a gig in Appleton, WI the next day. That normally wouldn’t have been such a long drive except for the fact that I decided to take a detour to Hibbing, MN and see the childhood home of Robert Zimmerman (A.K.A. Bob Dylan). It was totally worth it. I spent a beautiful sunny Sunday morning in Hibbing then made it on time to my show in Appleton. It turned out to be one of the strongest performances of that tour (and the venue made me a vegan pizza for dinner).

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

Opening for David Byrne would be fun. He’s such a unique and forward-thinking musician, visual artist and author. An all-around visionary. Truly inspiring.

My ideal rider would include lots of healthy treats: raw fruits and veggies, hummus; almonds, dried figs and dates; sourdough bread, maybe extra dark chocolate (with no sugar). Non-alcoholic beverages: water, peppermint tea; green tea, chilled seltzer; oat milk for the cold brew coffee concentrate. Also, a towel. Perhaps some clean socks. Nag Champa incense would be icing on the cake.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Remember it’s called ‘music business’ for a reason. ‘Music’ = study and practice your craft. ‘Business’ = enjoy the work because you'll be doing a lot of it. (Usually more business than music.) Be nice. Stay honest.

IN THIS PHOTO: Julien Baker

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friend David Freeman recently released a beautiful album of original, instrumental compositions called Overview Effect. There’s a Memphis artist named Julien Baker who’s a fantastic songwriter, guitarist and singer. I like the new album from Snail Mail. Also, be sure to check out MonoNeon.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Snail Mail

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

When I’m on tour, I look at a map every day and find the big patch of green. I’m usually able to find a park reasonably close to the venue. With so much time spent driving and in cafes for office hours, it’s important to be active outdoors. That means walking/hiking when I’m on the road and bicycle rides when I’m at home. Daily exercise of any form is the key to overall well-being. I also maintain a daily Vipassana meditation practice which began in 2009 when I went to my first ten-day silent meditation retreat.

I keep a vegan diet, so I’m always interested in trying new plant-based recipes. Visual art is also part of my exploration of the creative process. For a while, I was making collages from found objects and, recently, I’ve been getting into photography.

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

The Banana Splits theme song.

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Follow Stephen Chopek

Official:

http://www.stephenchopek.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/stephenchopekmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/stephenpchopek

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/stephenchopek/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWtPmz9L1hdaXZJUIjR9kow

Bandcamp:

https://stephenchopek.bandcamp.com/

FEATURE: A Trump Suit in a House of Cards: Songs for the Forty-Fifth President of the United States of America

FEATURE:

 

A Trump Suit in a House of Cards    

IN THIS IMAGE: U.S. President Donald J. Trump/IMAGE CREDIT: Bryant Arnold/Cartoon a Day

Songs for the Forty-Fifth President of the United States of America

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JUST when you thought the nation…

IN THIS PHOTO: British Prime Minister Theresa May/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/Press

couldn’t get more nervous and on-edge; we are preparing for the visit of President Donald Trump! He lands in the U.K. on Thursday and I am sure, with our Government cracking and shifting, he will bring his delicate, diplomatic and humanist touch to the situation! In regards to his upcoming visit; he has been telling reporters how he views the unravelling situation in this country:

“Donald Trump expects to see a country in “turmoil” when he lands in the UK on Thursday for a two-day visit he said would make his subsequent summit with Vladimir Putin in Helsinki seem “easy”.

The president spoke to reporters on the south lawn of the White House on Tuesday morning, before boarding Marine One to begin his trip to Europe, which will begin with a Nato summit in Brussels.

He repeated familiar criticism of Nato and spoke warmly of Boris Johnson, the British foreign secretary and Brexit leader who resigned from the government of Theresa May on Monday. Trump said Johnson had been “very nice” and “very supportive”.

“It’s going to be an interesting time in the UK and certainly an interesting time with Nato,” Trump said, over the noise of the helicopter. “Nato has not treated us fairly but I think we’ll work something out. We pay far too much and they pay far too little. But we will work it out and all countries will be happy”.

PHOTO CREDIT: Reuters: Kevin Lamarque

If this were a visit by former President Barack Obama, then you can bet people would be lining the streets and cheering as he arrived. As people frantically stock-pile bottle of piss and get all their out-of-date food from the fridge; it seems Trump will be met with something a lot tangier and more rotten. He does not have too many fans over here (or anywhere in the world). Aside from Nigel Farage oiling his chest and making sure his tongue is at its most flexible (use your imagination…); there is going to be much protest and disgust lining the streets of the country. It seems, when he heads to London and faces the outrage of the people; things are going to be very tense and vocal:

“More important than what Trump says is what Britain says back to him. And the most significant element in that collective answer will be the series of rallies and demonstrations planned for the four-day visit. It is of the highest importance that these marches are both populous and peaceful. Nobody can predict how many will turn out to protest in cities across the UK – the centrepiece being the national Together Against Trump march and rally in London on Friday afternoon. But put it this way: I would be surprised if they were sparsely attended”.

We will be very peaceful and restrained on that Friday but there will be plenty of hostility aimed at the embittered and disgraced President. To ‘honour’ his visit to us; I have compiled a selection of songs that sum up Donald Trump and his ‘charms’. Whilst Three Lions creeps back into the public consciousness and becomes our (unofficial) national anthem; there are a few other songs that could, for a brief time, well be…

IMAGE CREDIT: FriendlyStock.com

ON the nation’s lips!

INTERVIEW: Ella Poletti

INTERVIEW:

Ella Poletti

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I am squeezing in one more interview…

and speaking with a fantastic talent coming out of Los Angeles. Ella Poletti tells me how she came to work with Out There on the new song, What to Do, and what the track is about; if she is going to bring us more new music before the end of the year – the artists that inspired her when she was growing up.

Poletti chats about her cover versions and getting love/support from streaming sites; whether there are aims/ambitions to cover before the end of this year; a new artist we should listen to carefully – I ask which artist, if she had the chance, she’d like to support on tour.

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

I’m well, thank you! My week has been great. I hope yours has been too.

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

Of course! I’m Ella Poletti. I am twenty-years-old. I’m originally from Bloomington, Indiana but I currently live in Los Angeles, fulfilling my dreams of becoming a Pop singer-songwriter.

What to Do is out. Can you talk about how the song came together?

I’m super-excited that What to Do is out now. It was such an easy and fun song to create…it kind of just came to us so quickly. I think that, in total, it only took a few hours over a span of two days to write all of the lyrics and melodies.

It sees you work with Out There. How did you two hook up? What did he add to the song?

Out There and I met through a mutual friend and we kind of just hit it off immediately. After chatting and sharing projects that we were both working on, we knew we had to collaborate. He had already started on What to Do and essentially just needed the top-line melodies and lyrics. He showed me the instrumental he had made and I loved it - so we agreed it collaborate on writing it and then release it together.

Do you reckon they’ll be more music coming? Are you in a productive frame of mind right now?

There is lots more music coming! I am working on some great stuff right now that I can’t wait to share with all of you. There will definitely be more music before the end of the year, that’s for sure.

Your cover versions, especially a take on Shawn Mendes’ Mercy, have proved hugely popular. How do you inhabit other people’s music so personally and with such passion?

I love putting my own spin on other people’s music. I have stopped doing so many covers now, to focus more on my original music, but whenever I would cover a song, I would first really listen to the lyrics and see how I relate to it. One of the many great things about pop music is that it can be really easy to connect with what the artist is saying.

You have received lots of streams and amassed fans. Is it a bit crazy seeing how far you have come?!

Honestly, it feels like my dreams are becoming a reality. It is very exciting to see the world enjoying my music and it’s so exciting to see my fanbase grow so even more people can enjoy the music I’ve worked so hard on.

I especially love the flexibility of your voice. Have any particular artists helped shape your vocals/style?

Ever since I first started singing, I was immediately attracted to Pop music. All of the hits of the early-2000s were definitely a big influence on me - especially Beautiful Soul by Jesse McCartney and Leave (Get Out) by JoJo. I also used to listen to Norah Jones on-repeat every night - so I think that was where I got my jazzy/Blues style from, vocally.

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

There will definitely be more music released before the end of 2018 and, by the end of the year, I should also have a long list of new original music, features and projects I’m working on for 2019.

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

Probably, the first time I ever heard my voice recorded on a mixed and mastered original song. The feeling of creating something that didn’t exist before and hearing it back professionally recorded is so inspiring and amazing. It also made me realise that my dream of having a song played on the radio is a lot more reachable than I could ever have imagined.

If you could support any musician alive today, who would it be?

Maroon 5 is my all-time favourite band. I mean, they’ve basically been on top-40 radio and charting for nearly twenty years! That’s almost unheard of for a Pop band nowadays. I am a massive fan of them and admire their music and ability to have such a long career…that would be a dream!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would just say to never stop doing what you love and to connect with others that have similar dreams. This can be a really difficult path to chase if you don’t have people to do it with you. It is an amazing feeling helping each other grow and coming up together too.

IN THIS PHOTO: Sigrid

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Sigrid is my favourite artist that’s breaking through right now. I’ve listened to her for a while now and I had the pleasure of seeing her live as well. She is amazing!

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

I’m working on music most of the time; but, when I am not, I honestly do what everyone else does. I love being outdoors and doing things like hiking or going to the beach. But, just spending time laying low with friends is my favourite.

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

Thank you! Sigrid’s Don’t Kill My Vibe is a fave of mine and a great summer jam.

_____________

Follow Ella Poletti

Official:

https://ellapoletti.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ellapolettiofficial/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ellapoletti

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/ellapoletti/

Spotify:

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

INTERVIEW: The Moods

INTERVIEW:

The Moods

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MY final interview of the day…

is with the ten-strong crew of The Moods. The Manchester band has been discussing their musical influences and how they all found one another. I discover what their new single, Carnival, is all about and how their music generally comes together.

They share a treasured memory from their careers so far; which new artists we need to get our ears around; whether there are any plans for gigs coming up – each of them picks a song to end the interview with.

____________

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

It's been a very busy week with The Moods. The new single, Carnival, has been gaining momentum with a couple of national radio plays on BBC Radio 6 Music and features in national magazines. Everyone seems to be enjoying the song so we're happy.

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

I, personally, have trouble describing our sound. It is a mixture of everything, really. I suppose it's mostly Dance, Drum ‘n’ Bass-driven but, as you can hear from our new single, we like to mix it up with a bit of Reggae, Dancehall and 2-Step-kinda-vibes. We really don't like to restrict ourselves. We even have Heavy Rock songs that we've been playing about with in our studio.

You can always expect something different from us, that's for sure.

Carnival is your new track. What is the song’s story?

This song came about from our festival experiences gigging as a band. We seem to enjoy festivals the most. There's such a good mixture of people and personalities and everyone is there for the same reason: to have a top time. We wanted to capture that feeling in a piece of music and I reckon we've hit the nail on the head with this one. It has a real summery feeling to it.

How does a song from The Moods come together? Do you all pitch in – or will someone take the lead?

We own our own studio, so we all get together as much as we can. We're quite fortunate to have a wide range of musical knowledge at hand in The Moods; so we're never stuck for ideas. There's ten of us in total, so the sounds come together quite quickly. It usually starts with one person's idea and we all come alive and throw our bits in.

It's quite hectic at times but we love it that way.

The band formed in Manchester in 2014. How did all ten of you get together? Did you all know one another before the band formed?

The core of the band has been together since high-school in 2002. We used to be an Indie band if you can believe that? Over the years, we've always written music together and evolved our sound into what you hear today. We've added a couple of rappers, a violinist and a trumpet player in recent years and we decided to take it back to the stage. We've had some great feedback so we stuck with it.

Which artists do you all rank as influences? Do you all have varied and wide tastes?

There are so many artists and bands that influence our music. Between the ten of us, we've probably listened to every genre out there. We're big fans of finding new music, though. That's what we love about touring: we get the chance to discover new and exciting artists. Some that instantly spring to mind from recent tours are K.O.G & the Zongo Brigade - and also Yoko Pwno.

Is there more material coming soon? What are you working on right now?

We're currently working on a new album.

We have no official release date and we're in no rush to get it out there either. We're looking to make this one our best yet. You can probably expect a couple more tracks like Carnival and, maybe, a few more unusual live instruments too. We don't like to restrict ourselves and anything goes. We will be releasing an E.P. soon, so look out for that too.

How do you think The Moods’ music has changed since the start? Have you brought new sounds into the fold?

Yeah, definitely. Like I said before; The Moods started out as an Indie band back in the day. It's been a long journey for some of us and a real learning curve with how to craft songs. We're quite lucky to have the history we have - and it definitely helps when writing music.

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

By the end of 2018, we're hoping to get out to some new cities and towns that we haven’t played yet and to keep building on our fan base with bigger gigs and festival slots

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

It's got to be our album launch party for me. Selling out the O2 Ritz in Manchester was unbelievable. The crowd was amazing and we sold loads of vinyl and C.D.s. It was a special moment for me and it's gonna take a lot to beat it.

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

Rudimental have always had a massive live show and I think we would be a perfect fit as a support band.

As for the rider; we already have a pretty hefty one with ten of us in the band…but I’m sure we could drink and eat a lot more if need be.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would tell them not to be afraid to make the music you want to make. Gig a lot. I mean, loads! It's the most important thing you can do. You will learn a lot about yourself and your audience. Make sure your live show is spot-on and have fun. That's what it's all about: try not to make it a job and you'll feel much better about it all.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

We've spent the last year pretty much touring flat-out from as far north as Inverness right down to London. For all our tour dates you can check out.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

As mentioned before; K.O.G & the Zongo Brigade and Yoko Pwno really stood out as bands that really excited us whilst touring. Tixxy Bang, who features on Carnival, has an amazing album called Strongman that you should all check out. Also; some of the Scottish bands such as The Girobabies, Colonel Mustard & the Dijon 5 and Busker Rhymes are all well worth a listen.

IN THIS PHOTO: Yoko Pwno/PHOTO CREDIT: Tixxy Bang

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

Only speaking on my behalf but, when I'm not in the studio or on the road with the band, I spend my winding downtime with a good film or game…and generally just spending time with the family

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).

Phil (Drums): The Beautiful South - You Keep It All In

John (Vocals): UNKLE (ft. Ian Brown) - Be There

Paul (Keys): Sub Focus, Rudimental; Chronixx and Maverick Sabre - Trouble

Dave (Bass): Frank Zappa - Dumb All Over

Alice (Violin): Ganja White Night - Champagne

Baz (Drums): Zero 7 - Destiny

Cunny (Vocals): Damian Marley - The Struggle Discontinues

Will (Trumpet): The Nextmen, Gentleman’s Dub Club (ft. Gardna) – Rudeboy

Kolega (Rapper): Kano (ft. Hot Chip) - All + All Together

Explicit (Rapper): J. Cole - Lights Please

I think that list sums up why we make such eclectic music!

_____________

Follow The Moods

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/themoodsmanc

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/themoodsmanc

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/themoodsmanc/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNkyCA0toNNEYDwtImK53XQ

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4n6CBxrrU6uk2w7fqARWYI?si=5erHFhMCS1-r8cZm9AvZRA

INTERVIEW: Favours

INTERVIEW:

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Shelby Fenlon

Favours

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TODAY sees me assess…

a lot of Canadian talent! Whether there is something in the air or not; you cannot deny the Canadian market is packed and exciting right now. Favours have been chatting about their single, In the Night, and its amazing video; when the band came to be – they reveal whether more material is coming along.

I ask them whether there are some new artists we should check out; if they each have a favourite memory from music; what sort of gigs are coming up – as they are called ‘Favours’; I ask whether they have been asked any cheeky favours in the past!

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

It’s been a wild one. We made the music video for In the Night ourselves and only filmed it a few weeks ago! We worked until 2 A.M., colouring the video the night before its release to make the deadline. It is amazing to have the video and song as our first tune out in the world.

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

We are a Synth-Rock band from Toronto who creates a blend of music from influences of both past and present. We love a lot of music from the '80s and music from today like Tame Impala and Unknown Mortal Orchestra; so, we try to be somewhere in between them: Modern English and Depeche Mode. 

In the Night is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

In the Night is a song Alex Zen wrote about ten or more years ago; he had floated it around different bands but nothing ever clicked. With Favours, everything came together in a perfect way that allowed the song to find its footing. Josh Korody recorded the song and polished it off. Adding a steady synth and bass in the melodies really picked up the tune.

 

The video looks like it was great to film! It has fantasy, colour and a great story. Was it great to be involved with?!

We wrote and produced the video ourselves with help from lots of friends. It was filmed in a vacant house that we had access to and cleaned up, which was a massive undertaking. The video borrows images from our favourite Criterion films like Edward Yang’s Yi Yi and Jubilee by Derek Jarman. The video also briefly features a skateboarding mini-ramp we built in the living room of the house, which provided endless entertainment before and during shooting. 

Is there more material coming from Favours? What are you guys working on?

You bet! We recorded four songs in the studio with Josh when we did In the Night. We expect to head into the studio again this summer to record six more - and then we’ll have an E.P. ready for early-2019. More singles will be released along the way.

 Can I ask how you got together? When did it all click?

Parth and Alex both played in former bands in Toronto (Pet Sun and Invasions). Jacq writes and directs music videos and films; Alex and Jacq met through their video work. Dan and Parth are both from Hamilton and have always wanted to play music together, so it was a perfect fit.

I am seeing a lot of great music come from Toronto. What is it about the area that leads to such invention and consistency?

There are tons of great bands coming out of Toronto and it might have something to do with the great water quality and excellent health care.

Which artists do you take guidance from? Who do you all count as idols?

Tame Impala, Unknown Mortal Orchestra; Arthur Russel, Depeche Mode; Modern English, Talking Heads; Stone Roses, Joy Division. All those kinda cats.  

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

We would love to open for some bigger bands and get on tour. We’re set to put out at least two more songs so, hopefully, we can get some traction and hit the road. 

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

Alex: I was part of a music residency program at the Banff Centre which was by far the most lavish and exciting time I have ever had in music. I worked with some unbelievably talented producers and musicians there and really learned to hone my craft- which is part of the reason songs sound the way they do.

Parth: Touring through the States and getting to hit new unreal cities every night was a treat. Getting to see the White House one night and Fenway Park a couple nights later...all the while playing music you love (is the dream).

Jacq: Joining a band for the first time (Favours) and playing my first show was super-fun. I’ve been studying piano since I was little so it was nice to fiddle around with such an awesome synth. 

Dan: A few years back; I had a lot of fun organizing and playing a show where we got to perform in warlock robes in a smoke machine-filled, black-lit room for a real fantastic crowd.

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

Kevin Parker – any day of the week.

The War on Drugs – any second day of the week.

Mac Demarco – every other week (because he is too wild to take on all the time).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We are still looking for advice: if you have any, please send it our way. Treat music like you would a prized pooch and really coax that pooch into the world with grace and dignity. Maybe it will love you back.

Where can we see you play? Do you have any gigs approaching?

We will be playing in Toronto and Ontario during the summer months. Stay tuned!

IN THIS PHOTO: Anemone

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Anemone, Faith Healer; Passport Radio and Wooly Mantis are some great Canadian acts to check out!

IN THIS PHOTO: Passport Radio/PHOTO CREDIT: Lexi Johnston

As you are called ‘Favours’; can I ask what the biggest favour each of you has been asked is?

Jacq: Someone asked me to shave their bum once…quite the request.

Alex: People ask for favours all the time but let me tell you: nothing comes free.

Parth: A friend once asked me if they could use my apartment to get busy with a Tinder date…while I was home...

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

Typically, we work until we bleed but, when we do catch a moment of time to unwind, we pick up some cold brews and maybe a camera; make a film and hit the old skateboard. The usual.

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).

Alex: Caramello – Xenoula 

Parth: Cut Worms - Don't Want to Say Good-bye

Dan: Birdland - Weather Report

Jackie: Mount Kimbie (ft. Micachu) - Marilyn

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Follow Favours

PHOTO CREDIT: Leah Wright

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/favoursband/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/favoursband/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjNoJBC4w1cA7rxic5jFTMw

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6ITmkLaaKOscYl6M2Btipq?si=JWFm1m2HTcGvcxhqkTvgSQ

INTERVIEW: Brutus Begins

INTERVIEW:

Brutus Begins

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IT has been a real blast…

speaking with Brutus Begins. He (Ricardo) discusses the track, The Nothing Here, and what it was like filming the video; which artists he would support on tour if he had the chance; what the music scene is like in his part of Canada – he recommends an artist that is filling his mind right now.

Brutus Begins tells me whether U.K. dates are a possibility; why Prince is a huge idol and driving force to him; how the songwriter spends time away from music – ending the interview by selecting a classic slab of Queen.

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

I’m feeling lucky, very grateful. Things are busy - in a good way.

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

Sure. I’m a musician who uses elements of Psych, synth and Folk to make songs you might like if you’re into the likes of MGMT, Beck and Peter Gabriel.

Can I ask where that moniker, ‘Brutus Begins’, comes from? Is there a story behind it?

It started where the last one ended.  

As the project I was part of was coming to a close, I knew it was bringing about the start of something I could completely immerse myself in. I like the idea that the tragedy of one era is the catalyst for the next. Even something that may be considered a disaster or betrayal is, when you look in a larger context, just the necessary circumstance for fulfilling your own potential. If necessity is the mother of invention, failure is the midwife.

The Nothing Here is your latest song. Does it have a particular origin? What was it like recording the video?

The song was inspired by a scene in the film, Confessions of a Dangerous Mind. There’s a scene where Sam Rockwell’s voiceover describes all the things you could have been and the terrible day you wake up and realize that you’ve become none of them. I think, for a lot of artists, there is an innate fear of becoming invisible and that can lead to reckless behaviour - whatever it takes to be seen. 

Making the video was a lot of hard, fun work. My good friend Reinaldo Tragnone co-directed and shot, while my wife Jessica Lea Fleming (who is also a filmmaker) helped produce and got us our first location…her grandma’s cottage in the dead of winter. There was no running water but it had heat and character. The outdoor scenes, walking toward the sunrise in a bathrobe, were probably as cold as I’ve ever been (it was around -30 degrees). 

After editing some of that footage, we decided to get a little more ambitious and expanded the concept and crew. Another contributor, Adrian Mehes, joined us to help on the subsequent shoots. The whole thing was done on a modest budget only because Reinaldo, Jessica and Adrian were so innovative and committed. 

Uncanny Valley (2016) was met with huge acclaim. Were you stunned by the reception it garnered? Will there be another album coming along?

It was really nice to get such positive feedback and press for an album I recorded on my own, at home. Still, it made me aware of how much further I still wanted to push my sound and how much I have to learn. That’s part of why I went to an outside producer for The Nothing Here. After talking to some people, I ended up working with Michael Dilauro who I felt did a great job of polishing my sound and helping me bolster a pretty simple song with a dynamic arrangement. I’m working on a batch of new recordings and plan on releasing a few more singles before releasing an E.P. or full-length album. 

It’s an advantage of being an independent artist when you can take the time to immerse yourself in the minutia of each track without being pressured to meet a deadline that serves a short-sighted goal. For now, I feel like singles are practical and allow me to reach out to a new fanbase while I evolve and grow.

You mix natural sounds and acoustic instruments – some synthesisers thrown in there. Do you think that mix of nature and electronic is what gives your music its depth and fascination? 

For me, yes. That was part of my goal and really part of why I’m so interested in music today…where different sounds lead and the buttons they push. I’m fascinated by the way we straddle this imaginary line between the things we call natural and synthetic and how these things need each other to be relevant and effective. Power on, turn on your Wi-Fi: the stereo, the Bluetooth so you can hear an acoustic guitar or some congas - or just a human voice. It’s a long way around to get where you were.

Still, these things play nicely together and they are reflections of who we are and how we live. Even the ‘unnatural’ blips, effects and wires have their nature…Sh*t; I can’t really make sense of it but that’s what gives me that feel of wonder.  Still, each listener is going to find depth according to where they dig; whether it’s samples, melodies; beats or stories. I’m trying to make something that lets you dig in a different direction each time.  

How did music come into your life? Were there particular artists that made you want to go into music?

As a kid; it seemed a bit mysterious or magical. To see my dad get nostalgic while singing a Charles Aznavour song or just watching a band move a crowd when my parents took me with them to the Portuguese dances in the community…it was like watching mass hypnosis. I think, when you’re really young, so much of what you perceive as your parents' life seems grey, work; controlled…not free.  Music seemed to be the only thing that gave everyone permission to reach up, dance; stomp, hug; make noise and play all at once.  

I remember seeing my first videos and lots of artists scared and excited me at the same time. They had bright colours like real-life cartoons, moved like superheroes and snarled like pr-wrestlers. Prince blew my goddamn mind - this little dude in a lace blouse and heels. I saw that and my tiny brain lit up! I thought: ‘This is allowed?! This guy is weird and cool and he doesn’t give a fuuuuuck!’ I don’t know how I knew this…but I was pretty sure girls loved this dude. Then, I saw him playing the guitar and it was like he was pouring his molten heart into it; like everything he felt was way too big for any words but he could find a way to fit this giant feeling into a sound. It was like hearing a new magic language - but it would take me years to get up the nerve to speak it.

Toronto is where you are based. Is it a great city to create and perform music in?

Well; not anymore. I recently moved to Hamilton (about an hour away) and while, yes, Toronto is a great city to create and perform - there’s something very exciting happening in Hamilton right now. It took just a few weeks before I found some brilliant people to perform with here and round out the live show. I think a lot of artists have been priced out of Toronto and have had to move to places where lower rents allow for more time to create, experiment and grow.  

Since coming to Hamilton, I’ve seen some incredible musicians honing their craft and laying the foundation for a powerful scene. It’s just a matter of time before everyone else sees what is being built here.

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

Hmm. I think playing shows to really get our band as tight as possible. We have some exciting things lined up including a festival here in Hamilton and we’ll follow that up with a couple of singles and another video that’s in pre-production right now. It’s for a song called Casual in Cruelty and the video can best be described as The Great Gatsby-meets-Caligula-via-David Lynch’s-meds. It's gonna be a trip.

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

We’re setting up tour dates and are looking at opportunities that would take us through the U.K. So, yes - and probably!  

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

I’ve been fortunate to make some great friends and have some adventures through music…even if, at the time, they seemed like disasters. Whether it’s as a performer or a fan, the moment I can regain the same wonder and awe I had as a nine-year-old hearing Prince for the first time - that’s the new favourite time.

A couple of nights ago, I saw Beck perform. After introducing his band and playing some bits of covers he said: “Someone out there might be thinking - why are these guys playing all these covers…is this a wedding band?! *pause* No; THIS IS A CELEBRATION OF MUSIC!” The place went bananas and so did I. It was a concise, earnest and massive expression of what drives me. So, that’s my most recent favourite memory but I’m always chasing the next one.

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

Wish-list time!  

I’d like to open for Paul Simon....

As far as the rider goes, here are my demands: cappuccinos, creme brûlée and a projector playing Martin Scorsese’s The Last Waltz on a loop.

Then, ten minutes before I go on, Paul Simon has to come in and compliment me on a very specific lyric from my most-recent single. He has to tell me how clever said lyric is and that he wishes he could have written it himself. Then, hugs me real tight, kisses me on each cheek and says he can’t wait to watch me perform. 

That is the rider…

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Fail big. Don’t shrink your ambitions to fit them comfortably in the minds of small people.  

IN THIS PHOTO: Khruangbin

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m currently obsessed with Khruangbin.

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

I chill out with my lovely wife, travel when I can; watch good movies and write whenever I have a moment. 

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).

Queen - I Want to Break Free

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Follow Brutus Begins

 Official:

https://www.brutusbegins.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/brutusbegins

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/brutusbegins

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/brutusbegins/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/brutusbegins

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpa-ZybWKL3e3chRQ3xQiBA

PHOTOS OF BRUTUS BEGINS:

Jen Squires

Bandcamp:

https://brutusbegins.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Judith Hill

INTERVIEW:

 Judith Hill

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FEW people can claim they have…

spent time in the studio with Prince! I ask Judith Hill about that experience and what it was like supporting Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder – Hill talks about her musical tastes and how important it is being up on the stage and bringing songs to the people.

The talented artist discusses her latest track, The Pepper Club, and what we can expect from her upcoming album, Golden Child. She recommends a couple of new artists and coming to the U.K. to play – the songwriter tells me what the biggest she has learned is.

____________

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

I’m doing great. My week has been awesome. Excited to be preparing for these shows.

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

My name is Judith Hill. I’m a Soul singer from L.A. I grew up writing, performing and playing since the age of four. I love anything funky, anything with an orchestra and anything that really moves my soul. 

You have a new single/video, The Pepper Club, out. What was the inspiration behind the song?

The Pepper Club was inspired by my new show, Golden Child. It is a play/modern ballet that celebrates the diversity of culture as it tells a story about a group of people who overcome societal division. The Pepper Club symbolizes a cultural mecca where all types of people are celebrated. I eventually want to open a venue called the Pepper Club. 

It is from the album, Golden Child, due later this year. Are there particular events and themes we can see addressed on the album?

Golden Child, the album, has a major theme of unity. Given the current climate of the world, I want to use music to overcome hate and bring people together. We are all one in spite of our differences. I also wrote a lot of the songs for the young child in me. After tragedy and darkness comes the rebirth of innocence.

You worked with Prince back in 2015. What was that like?! Was it quite intimidating having him in the studio?

No. It was peaceful and wonderful. I miss it. 

How has supporting artists like Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder affected you as an artist and performer?!

They are both incredibly inspiring. I’m inspired by their energy. Being a part of the experience taught me so much. It’s not just the excellence; it’s also the spirit behind the music. Every true artist opens the gateway into God’s stage. We are blessed to experience his power and love through music. 

Do you think you have changed as an artist since the earliest days? What has been the biggest lesson you have learned?

The biggest lesson is to fall in love with what you do. Always keep the excitement and joy in your heart - that is the fuel for every good performance and song.  

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

One of my favorite memories is practising Chopin's Nocturnes in college. I loved the harmonies. That’s part of what inspired so much of my music as an artist. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

The advice I would give to new artists: become the best version of yourself. Live in the moment every time you hit the stage and never stop creating. Create every day and share it with the world. Your music may become someone’s salvation or just put more smiles on faces. 

I believe you are playing the U.K. soon. Have you performed here before?

This will be the first time I bring my whole band to play in the U.K. Last time I was there, I opened for John Legend. It was an acoustic show - but this is the full band show.  

Is it important getting on stage and putting your music to the people? What kind of buzz do you get?

I love performing live. That’s where you feel the connection with people and the songs come alive. Every show is a different experience. When people come to my shows, I take them on a journey. It’s an emotional rollercoaster but an unforgettable experience. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Alice Smith

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I love Marcus King and Alice Smith. They are both great.  

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

I love watching movies, going to vintage clothing stores and playing with my dog.  

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).

Pure Imagination – Gene Wilder

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Follow Judith Hill

Official:

http://www.judithhill.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/JudithHillOfficial/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Judith_Hill

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/judithgloryhill/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDXKNXRw5bLNp2u7SGl9jCQ

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/04ka9403wgTxmWFMY1PD5t

INTERVIEW: Colour Film

INTERVIEW:

 Colour Film

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I have been speaking with…

the excellent Colour Film (Matthew de Zoete) about his single, Open Road, and its creation. He talks about shooting its video and working alongside Caroline Brooks; how he feels he has developed since his debut – de Zoete offers some advice for upcoming artists.

I ask the Canadian songwriter whether there is more material coming later in the year; if there are any tour dates planned; how he spends time away from music – he ends the interview by selecting a classic cut.

____________

Hi, Colour Film. How are you? How has your week been?

I'm doing well, thanks. My week's been good - lots of activity around the new single and video, so that's been fun. I've also been working a fair bit on my wife's flower farm, helping her out during the busy season. It's nice to get outside and do some physical work as well.

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

Sure. My name is Matthew de Zoete and I live in the countryside near Hamilton, Ontario (Canada). I started releasing music and touring in 2006. Since then, I've released four albums and toured throughout North America and Europe. 

What is the story behind the moniker, ‘Colour Film’?

The name comes from the title-track of an album called Colour Film released under my own name in 2012. The song is a reflection on seeing home movies of my grandparents and their siblings from the 1960s when they were much younger than I've ever known them being. Seeing those silent films made me realize that my grandparents are just like me - they started out young and are getting older one day at a time – and that I have a lot more in common with them than I thought.

So, the song is important to me, personally but, also, when I thought about it, I realized that I often write songs with a visual element - some characters, a plot or situation; a distinct setting, some details that hopefully bring the song alive in a listener's mind. Sometimes it's subconscious, sometimes it's intentional but it seems to be a recurring theme in how I approach songwriting.

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

The song was inspired by a bike ride I took with my wife and two young daughters in the countryside one evening. At one point, they were up ahead of me a little way and I caught a glimpse of them biking with a stretch of open trail curving off into the distance in front of them. I was struck by the idea of a person you love being an open road - taking you places inside yourself, opening possibilities and shaping your path into the future.

This thought and the mental snapshot of my family stuck with me, so I wrote the song the next day. The rhythm and melody remind me of biking with them and we shot the video on the same stretch of trail where the song was inspired.

How did you come to work with Caroline Brooks? Do you two have a musical past together?

I'd met Caroline a few times through producer Les Cooper (who has also worked with Caroline and her band Good Lovelies) and other musical friends. We don't have a musical past together but I was familiar with her music. So, as soon as I started visualizing the feel and atmosphere of how I'd like to record Open Road, I thought Caroline's voice and approach would be perfect.

The video sounds like it was really interesting to put together. How quickly did Nathan Fleet, the director, come up with the concept?

The video was really fun and easy to shoot. It was a very relaxed and enjoyable experience, which isn't always the case! Nathan and I were kicking around a few concept ideas and I suggested two people doubling on a bike, which I'd seen and done a fair bit on previous tours in the Netherlands. We fleshed the idea out a bit and both felt it would suit the song. So, the concept was quite easy and natural as well. Usually a good sign.

Is there going to be more material before the end of the year? What are you working on?

I'm always writing new songs, so that's what I'm working on at the moment - preparing material for the next album which I plan to start recording later this year. The album won't be out for a while, but you never know…there may be another single before then.

How do you feel you have developed as a songwriter since your debut?

I think I've been able to achieve a bit more focus and clarity, both musically and lyrically.  I think I've learned to have a little bit more direction.

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

Another birthday…

Beyond that, I'd like to help Open Road reach some ears and connect with some people; maybe elicit a few smiles. I'd like to continue to grow as a songwriter and record a few more songs.

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

I played a concert a few years ago in an intimate venue and it happened that a number of relatives - aunts and uncles of mine, along with some cousins of my parents – could be in the audience. Introducing and playing the song Colour Film that night was quite powerful and meaningful; knowing that those relatives, who understood the family connections and knew the people in the home movies that inspired the song, were there sharing the experience.

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

I would open for Ray Davies and only ask that I could play guitar in his band.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Not sure how much wisdom I have to share, but two things have been helpful to me...

One is to be open to honest feedback, both positive and negative, from people whose opinions you trust. The other is to keep on keeping on - in both musical and non-musical aspects. Keep writing and learning; keep booking shows and tours; keep trying to connect with people.

IN THIS PHOTO: Don Brownrigg

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Don Brownrigg. He's released a few albums - so not a new artist, per se - but his music is well worth checking out.

Will you be touring very soon? Might we see you in the U.K.?

I've always wanted to tour the U.K., which might be partially due to my secret but thriving interest in Anglo-Saxon history. I don't have any confirmed plans for a U.K. tour, but it is on my list of projects.

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

We've got a couple kids and a farm to take care of, so there isn't a whole lot of true downtime. But, to relax I enjoy gardening and reading - mostly history, but current events and novels as well.

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'd love it if you could play A Song for You by Gram Parsons

_____________

Follow Colour Film

Official:

http://www.colourfilm.ca/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ColourFilmMusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ColourFilmMusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/colourfilmmusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDXKNXRw5bLNp2u7SGl9jCQ

INTERVIEW: Sarah Darling

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Cameron Powell

Sarah Darling

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THE next couple of weeks are going to be rather…

extraordinary and busy for Sarah Darling. She has a huge gig at Hyde Park and will play alongside, among others, Paul Simon! Darling has been talking with me about her latest single, Diamonds, and what its story is; recording it in Nashville and when she started to get involved with Country music.

She reveals whether more material is coming and what other tour dates are occurring; which three albums mean the most to her; a couple of new acts we need to get involved with – Darling tells me about her ambitions for the remainder of this year.

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

Hello and thank you for the interview! It’s been a wonderful week of resting and spending time with family. I’m a girl of balance and love the recharge time. I’ve been quite the world traveller lately.

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

Hello. My name is Sarah Darling - that’s my real last name! Welcome to my world of Country music meets the wide open spaces. It’s music that allows you to really escape somewhere beautiful through a story. If you get a chance, check out Diamonds, Where Cowboys Ride and Halley’s Comet and you will get to know me in about twelve minutes!

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

Diamonds is a very special tune. I wrote it with a really good friend, Jessica Sharman from the U.K.

We sat on my front porch in Tennessee watching the sun go and wrote the words to this song. It’s the idea that not everything beautiful happens in an instant. There’s a process to everything - and it’s what you do in the process that makes it all worthwhile. It’s really been my life and my experience of chasing my dream in the music industry. I wouldn’t change a thing to the process of how I’ve done things.

It’s led me to far more beauty than I could have ever imagined.

Is it true the song was recorded in Nashville? How cool was it recording there?!

Yes. Diamonds was recorded in Nashville with producer Mark Bright at Starstruck Studios. He’s one of those producers I had always dreamed about working with. Honestly, recording in Nashville is one of the most magical experiences. You basically get the most creative people in a room and they bring a song to life. I always wish I could bring everyone in the room to watch the process because it’s so wonderful.

It seems like there are similar lyrical strands to Wasted. Do you see the two songs as companion pieces?

A lot of my music touches on certain subjects I’ve been finding. I think it’s great to be a storyteller and messenger. Hopefully, the words really speak to somebody.

Are there going to be more tracks coming before the end of the year? What are you working on?

I’ve been writing like crazy the last few months. We will be announcing new music very soon.

It seems Country music plays a big role in your life. Is it a genre you are drawn to?

My grandfather was a big Country music fan and introduced me quite young. Country reminds me of home and all the wonderful memories of family. I love bringing that aspect into what I do every day.

I notice Pop elements coming into your current material. Who do you count as musical influences?

I’ve always been a blend of all my influences. I love great music and don’t even create genres anymore. I grew up listening to Joni Mitchell, the Eagles and Shania Twain. I’m a product of all the music that’s influenced me over the years.

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

Yes. I’m playing my biggest show to date July 15 with Paul Simon and James Taylor at Hyde Park for British Summer Time! July 22 at SummerTyne Festival; July 23 at River Town and August 26 at the Cottingham Folk Festival.

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

I have an ambition to elevate, musically. I absolutely loved making my last album and now it’s the fun part of creating a new world for people to enjoy. Creating is hard and wonderful all at the same time.

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

I had someone share how Diamonds really made them feel uplifted in a very dark time in their life. That’s what music is supposed to do.

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

Raising Sand - Alison Krauss and Robert Plant

The Woman in Me - Shania Twain

X & Y - Coldplay

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Always be yourself and beautiful things will happen. It’s not a race - and allowing yourself to make something that’s truly ‘you’ will make all the difference.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Wandering Hearts

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a fan of The Wandering Hearts and Gabrielle Aplin.

IN THIS PHOTO: Gabrielle Aplin

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

I always try to get an escape just to shut down my mind. I love to cook and go on hikes as well as travel to new far off land!

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).

Ward Thomas - Lie Like Me. I love these girls and this new release!

_____________

Follow Sarah Darling

Official:

https://www.sarahdarling.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialSarahDarling

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/_SarahDarling

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/officialsarahdarling/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7UZGzlnwrofrahUOjgNGOg

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4WCpgJFxAdAsm4FSD9CAfX 

INTERVIEW: Shlomi Ash

INTERVIEW:

Shlomi Ash

___________

MY final interview of the day…

is with the wonderful Shlomi Ash. He has been telling me about his debut single, Taking Me Over, and what it felt like finishing it; if there is more material coming down the tracks – he reveals some songwriters that have been important to him.

Ash tells me when music came into his life; growing up in Tel Aviv; the advice he would give to artists making their first steps; how he spends time away from music – he provides the names of upcoming artists we should check out.

____________

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

Pretty tense but I have no complaints. I did quite a lot of rehearsals for upcoming shows and drank too much but also wrote a new song that I really like and started planning my first music video – so, things are going really well.

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

Absolutely. I am Shlomi Ash; a singer-songwriter from Tel Aviv. I write big, loud guitar songs as well as intimate, acoustic melodies. Above all, I strive to make sincere, melodic and poetic guitar music. I spent the past few months in England recording a debut album with producer Chris Potter which I’ll be releasing in the coming year or so. I also quite like wine… (smiles).

Taking Me Over is out. As a debut single, was it quite tough putting something together you felt was ‘ready’ for the world?

Very, VERY tough. I spent the past ten years or so writing the songs that ended up on the album, including Taking Me Over, so it was extremely tough letting it go. Ultimately, though, you get to a point where you say: “If I won’t record it now, I’ll probably never will”. So, you simply let go and make it the best you can and as truthful as you can.

What is the story behind the song? When did it start life?

The main riff came first, some eight-plus years ago, and I liked it so much that I played it repeatedly for several hours until the rest of the music just came into being. I was very much into Funk and American Delta Blues at the time (Robert Johnson mainly), so I tried to write lyrics that had this feeling. As far as I’m concerned, though, it could be about anything really. It could be about sex, or about music itself and its part in our lives - or about anything else. For me, the main thing is the feeling and vibe of the track.

Taking Me Over has already been included on playlists and is doing well! How does that make you feel?!

Well, fantastic! Getting such great feedback on a debut single is very exciting and I’ve been humbled by all the things people said about it. I think a lot of people (including myself) are really hungry for guitar music. For too long now too many people say that guitar music is dead but I don't believe it will ever be the case. When I hear a great guitar riff or a strong guitar melody, my heart just starts pumping, in the most primal sense, and this kind of feeling can never disappear. I truly believe so.  

Is there more material coming along? Might we see another single before the end of the year?

Oh, definitely. There are lots of things in the pipeline and we’ll definitely be releasing one-two singles before the end of the year - and probably a music video or two as well.

Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there an artist or person who influenced that move?

Growing up, there was music coming from the radio in my house all the time - anything from Middle Eastern music to '70s Progressive-Rock. The moment when music became the main part of my life, though, was when I first heard The Beatles’ ‘Blue’ album. I was lucky enough to hear it for the first time at a very young age as it was one of the very few C.D.s my father had laying around. I became obsessed with it and still think everything you need to know about music can be found on that record.

Funnily enough, I also remember The Titanic movie soundtrack as another major influence at a young age. The big cinematic, symphonic sound never stopped exciting me since - and I’m still trying to add it to many of the songs I write.

In terms of music; what do you listen to when not recording your own?

I’m fascinated with great guitar music and great singer-songwriters. Like yourself, I love Jeff Buckley as I think he is a master of all domains – guitar playing, songwriting and singing. I also love American Rock and Folk legends such as Bruce Springsteen, Johnny Cash and Bob Dylan but my greatest love is definitely for '90s Pop-Rock music - Grunge, Britpop and anything in between. These guys knew how to craft great, timeless songs.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Getting the music out there is the number-one thing. I can't wait for people to hear the other songs from the album. So, doing shows and performing as much as I can is a good goal for 2018.  

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

My first ever band rehearsal was something I'll never forget... 

I was fifteen or sixteen and just got my first band together. We didn't have a lot of money to spend on a proper rehearsal room so we went to the schoolyard at 2 A.M.; found an A.C. outlet near the basketball court, plugged in the amps and guitars and started jamming under the stars. Our school was in a highly-populated neighbourhood, so it wasn't long before someone called the cops and we had to run away with the amps and guitars and all.

We were good kids but, at that moment, we felt like true Punk-rockers! It was one of these great childhood memories that come to you sometimes and put a smile on your face years later.

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

Probably Nick Cave or Tame Impala. Both of them seem to have a lot of fun on stage so it would be great supporting them. I'm also a big (Bruce) Springsteen fan and his live shows are the best I've seen - so that would be a dream come true as well.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Send your music out there: you can never know who will like it and join forces with you. I ended up working with one of my all-time favourite producers only because I reached out to him and sent him my demos. Also; never stop writing, wherever you are and whatever you do. You never know when the next great song will come along.

Might we see you tour very soon?

Yes! We plan a tour in the Tel Aviv area in the coming months and there's a planned European tour for early next year. I love England, so coming back to do shows there would be fantastic as well.

IN THIS PHOTO: Pale Seas/PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Chris (my producer) introduced me to a new band from the U.K. called Pale Seas which I’m obsessed with at the moment. They’ve made a remarkable debut album.

I also quite like Dr. Dog - they are not as new but equally as great. They’re an American band that has a modern Beatle-esque sound and a really nice vibe.

IN THIS PHOTO: Dr. Dog

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

Well; I already mentioned wine...

Besides that, I really like watching stand-up comedy and painting - but nothing really beats Netflix these days, does it?

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

That's always fun. I would have to choose the great Mr. Buckley, then. Maybe his What Will You Say duet with Alim Qasimov - that's a strong one!

_____________

Follow Shlomi Ash

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/shlomiashmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/ShlomiAshMusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/shlomiash

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/shlomi_ash/

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

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms  

IN THIS PHOTO: Cosha 

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

__________

THERE are some rather important and tasty…

IN THIS PHOTO: Maggie Rogers/PHOTO CREDIT: Jenn Five for DIY

festivals coming along before the end of the year - where big stars will play and new artists will be broken (in a good way!). I am excited to see who will play and which festival we should get our backsides to. This list of all-female talent will certainly provide some food for thought. From Cosha to a brand-new release from Maggie Rogers – it is a magical, moving and red-hot playlist that is guaranteed to…

IN THIS PHOTO: I SEE RIVERS

GET the body moving.

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

_____________

Rukhsana Merrise - Come My Way

Anitta (ft. Gloria Groove) – Show das ponderosas

PHOTO CREDIT: Brenon James Hawley Photography

Witchsister – Don’t Talk Over Me

PHOTO CREDIT: Kate Warren

Odetta Hartman - Misery

Bianca Bazin – White Water

Maggie Rogers – Fallingwater

Ania Diamond – Butterflies

Lo Lo – Yours

Becky Hill – Sunrise in the East

I SEE RIVERS – Give Up

Cosha - LUV

Hayley McKay – Ghosted

Ward Thomas – Lie Like Me

Rachel Cantu – You’re the Most

Olivia Nelson – Smother Me

Yazmin Lacey – 90 Degrees

Harper (ft. Trillary Banks) – Body on Me

Allana Verde – 2 A.M.

Mija - Talk

Rina Sawayama – Ordinary Superstar

Nilüfer Yanya - Baby Luv

Rachel Foxx – Don’t Be Shy

Wafia – Only Love

Paloma Faith – Warrior

Bella Barton – Like Flames

FEATURE: We ARE Worthy: Who Might We Expect to Headline Glastonbury Festival 2019?

FEATURE:

 

We ARE Worthy  

IN THIS PHOTO: Madonna/PHOTO CREDIT: Carl Timpone/BFA/Rex/Shutterstock

Who Might We Expect to Headline Glastonbury Festival 2019?

__________

SEEING as the nation’s biggest festival…

IN THIS PHOTO: Sir Paul McCartney/PHOTO CREDIT: Gustavo Caballero/Getty Images

has had a year off – giving the land a chance to recover and replenish – we have had an additional year to prepare the Glastonbury Festival rumour mill. There have been reports as to who might headline or appear on their somewhere on the bill.

“Emily Eavis has just given two huge clues for Glastonbury 2019 and said the "first draft of the Pyramid Stage" is complete.

Speaking to the BBC, the festival organiser spilled the artist playing the Sunday legends slot will be a "non-British female" and that Paul McCartney is always on the top their list to headline the whole festival

Queen of Pop Madonna has previously been thrown into the mix, with bookies offering odds on her headlining the Somerset festival.

According to The Sun, The Like A Virgin icon is being lined-up to top the bill at the Pyramid Stage next year in a bid to provide the festival with more female headliners.

A Glastonbury insider said: “Preparations are already well under way after they’ve taken this year off, and Michael and his ­daughter Emily Eavis want to make it better than ever.

"They have always been massive fans of Madonna and know she would put on an unforgettable show.“It was really important that they had a diverse line-up for the 2019 festival after criticism of previous ones.

"And with this being a fallow year they want to secure a really big name to drive ticket sales.

“Thanks to all her huge hits, they are convinced that she would be a real crowd pleaser on the Pyramid Stage”.

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

It seems like, in that classic way there is always a bit of tease; we have an idea of who MIGHT appear at the event next year. I think a Paul McCartney headline slot is long overdue. With his album, Egypt Station, out very soon; it would be a perfect opportunity for the legendary Beatle to do a career-spanning set and seduce the Pyramid Stage. Radiohead appeared last year and mixed older material with the stuff from A Moon Shaped Pool – the recent L.P. from the group. Last year, we suffered a bit from predictability and fatigue. I realise there are younger artists coming through who might not be ready for a headline slot: booking Ed Sheeran and Foo Fighters lacked inventiveness and it was a rather tepid line-up. With calls for festivals to have a more gender-balanced line-up – especially when it comes to headliners – we cannot repeat the same mistakes as 2017. There were female artists further down the bill but it was a missed opportunity – names do leap to mind that could have headlined. I am pleased there are two guaranteed crowd-pullers among the names…one female, too! It is a definite improvement from the Eavis’ but I wonder whether two ‘older’ icons is a good idea for a headline – maybe popping in a couple of ‘newer’ artists would provide a bit of balance.

IN THIS PHOTO: Emily and Michael Eavis/PHOTO CREDIT: Matt Cardy/Getty Images

I have always put Beyoncé’s name out there as I saw her Coachella set earlier in the year and was blown away by the choreography and energy she put out! I feel she could replicate that at Glastonbury Festival and, with a new album out (with Jay-Z as ‘The Carters’), one feels she would be a great fit. I suspect there will be a solo album out by this time next year, too. I could see her as the perfect Friday night headliners. Florence + the Machine might seem like an easy and obvious headliner but, considering the love High as Hope (the new album) is getting; is the time right for another Pyramid Stage inclusion?! I feel Beyoncé should be a lock-in and, if she were to join Paul McCartney (Saturday night?) that would be amazing. I feel Madonna, then, would work on the Sunday. Even though that still has two ‘older’ (no kind way of breaking it) icons headlining; it would see a younger, more energised performer in the middle. Many might see that prospective line-up and assume we need a male band or a female clan – they would have a point. The usual, ridiculous names have been suggested (Oasis and Led Zeppelin!) but Fleetwood Mac was mooted – again, they have had their day and you cannot have another decades-lasting act as a headliner.

IN THIS PHOTO: Beyoncé/PHOTO CREDIT: Kevin Mazur/Getty Images For Parkwood Entert

If you are going to band well then I would be reluctant to suggest obvious names: Coldplay, Muse and Foo Fighters seem like natural choices. They have all played enough and, to be fair, would not differ too much from their last outing. Queens of the Stone Age, again, would be a good fit but I wonder whether they, too, would be obvious?! I feel you need one female as an absolute minimum – whether it is Madonna or Beyoncé, I am not sure. One can debate a second female – I feel it would be a good move... – but, if you were going for possible bands; Wolf Alice (female-led) might be a good selection. If you want a harder, meatier sound – that doesn’t have to be a band – then Courtney Barnett and Janelle Monáe would get the crowds in and produce epic sets. I feel, though, there will be calls for Arctic Monkeys to fill a slot. Considering their latest album, Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino differs from their earlier work; that might be an interesting set. If you had Arctic Monkeys, Paul McCartney and Beyoncé/Madonna; how would that look? There is a lot of competition and choice but, so long as the Eavis’ avoid an all-male, all-band/mostly-band headlining trio then it will avert potential criticism and formulaic weariness. You never know which artists will release albums between now and then: we could have an instant headline-grabber who could fill a position.

IN THIS PHOTO: IDLES/PHOTO CREDIT: Lindsay Melbourne

I am also looking at Jack White as a possible Arctic Monkeys replacement and, hell, IDLES are ready to take to the big stages. Having them alongside icons like Paul McCartney – that sounds awesome, right?! Not to put suggestions in the ears of the organisers but there is a need for more female headliners and some young, raw blood. I don’t think there will be too many hard choices when it comes to filling the rest of the festival out but you need to make sure there is a good mix of male/female (fifty-fifty at least!) and have a mix of Urban artists with Pop/Rock. I can throw names around – such as Barnett, Florence + the Machine with Cardi B, Sigrid; Kacey Musgraves and Goat Girl – and there are great male artists such as Anderson .Paak and Hookworms; Years & Years and Nine Inch Nails (who I didn’t even consider for headliners!). Let’s Eat Grandma are a great duo to include and you could have Kamasi Washington and Sophie appear. In any case; there are ample choices that would mix nationalities, genders and genders into an awesome festival! It is vital to ensure female artists are included higher up the bill and it is not entirely Pop/Rock. Maybe it is like teaching the organisers how to suck eggs but Glastonbury Festival is the biggest event in the music calendar and sets an example to all the other festivals.

IMAGE CREDIT: Getty Images

If they had a brilliant balance and some original choices for headliners; that would set the trend for future years – fewer male headliners and artists who haven’t headlined getting to do it! This is all idle pitching and speculation. The teasing wink Emily Eavis gave regarding Macca and Madonna – you have to bet your savings at least ONE of them will headline! I would love to see Paul McCartney own Glastonbury and Madonna, who has not released material since 2015’s Rebel Heart, again, might have a new album out. She could do a 1980s-today set that brought plenty of attitude, dance and Pop magic to the hungry crowd! I, like most, would not object to Madonna and McCartney headlining Glastonbury Festival 2019. You would have a record-level of attendees and, if you threw a big name like Beyoncé in – if the budget allowed for it – then that would be insane. I feel, though, that ‘other’ headline slot could be an interesting choice. Do you go male/band like IDLES or go with another solo artist? One of the criticisms from last year’s festival was the inclusion of an acoustic artist like Ed Sheeran. Changes are good but, if you wanted to do the same next year; someone like Laura Marling might be a savvier choice! I feel next year needs to mix Pop majesty with some grittier, gutsy sounds that brings together the people and satisfies the masses. There is always going to be descent and grumbling but that is to be expected.

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

No matter who sets the crowds alight on Worthy Farm next year; it will be a big test for a festival which has had a fallow year. People have been pining for Glastonbury’s warm embrace and will have their pennies saved up – they’ll be a mad rush for tickets and it will be, weather-permitting, a rager. I know the festival is in safe hands and, the fact some juicy names are being hinted-at suggests the Eavis’ are not messing around. Gender-balance is a vital concern and I hope a more equal-minded balance is struck next year. I haven’t even mentioned names like Björk – another artist who could produce a bewitching set! I think Glastonbury 2019 is going to be the most-hyped and important event in the past decade. Not only because there is that tantalising prospect of having a couple of legends playing but because we all need some unity during these tough times. The more divided the country gets; the more we all need music to come in and provide direction: because of that, Glastonbury will bring the party and make us proud. It is a long way off but, every month, we are going to see new names put into the press – those who could headline and make an appearance. My worry is around all-male headliners and too few lessons learned. If that can be remedied, and parity created; I, for one, will be clambering for a ticket! At the very least; let’s all cross our fingers extra-hard and hope a certain Sir Paul…

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

GIVES his trademark double thumbs-up!

INTERVIEW: Astha

INTERVIEW:

Astha

___________

THE stunning Astha…

has been talking with me about her track, More, and how it came together. I ask about Toronto and whether it plays an important role to her; when music came into her life; if her own material/sound has changed and progressed since the early days – she talks about her first home of Kathmandu (Nepal).

Astha recommends a new artist and gives advice for artists coming through; whether there are tour dates coming up; a special memory from her time in music – Astha ends the interview by picking a song from a great new talent.

____________

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

Hey! So busy! We had a really successful pre-listening event for the E.P. yesterday in Toronto. As an independent musician, the grind sure is real!

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

I’m Astha; an Alternative Pop singer-songwriter originally from Kathmandu, Nepal and now based in Toronto, Canada. What I’m about (is wanting) to capture complex human emotions in a minimalistic way to create a sonic space of intimacy with my listeners. By welcoming them into my world and my emotions, I hope my audience will feel inspired to express theirs as well and hopefully discover their emotional freedom.

More is your new single. What was it like putting the song together?

More is a song that I hold very close to my heart. My producer, Myles ‘Losh’ Schwartz, and I spent many days in the studio fine-tuning the emotional delivery of the vocals. Since it is such a stripped-down production, it was important for us to focus on the voice being the centre of the song.

I believe you faced tough decisions and felt, at one point, your life was not going according to plan. Is More the rebirth and need to find something better from life?

I wouldn’t necessarily call it a 'rebirth' but more so a self-discovery process. I feel that the song More represents my understanding of what true unconditional love feels like in a relationship. In 2015, through the most random string of fated events, I met someone who hit me like a wave. Have you ever had an unconditional love? I believe that I have found that love and if I can capture even an ounce of that love in my songs I have fulfilled my calling.

How do you think your music has developed and progressed since your early days? Have you felt yourself change as an artist?

I would say that, at my core, I haven’t changed much. What has changed is the amount of life I have lived, which I feel definitely reflects in my music. I feel like I know myself better now? I think for the longest time music was sort of a crutch I relied on to fill a void. Now, I am approaching music from a space of fulfilment. Now, I have a lot more to give!

Toronto seems to be an important place for you. What is about the city that you love?

Toronto is my second home (Kathmandu first). I’m so lucky that I have two cities I can call home. The multiculturalism is what I love the most about Toronto. Everyone here is from somewhere else.

How did music come into your life? Were there particular artists that made you want to go into music?

Music came into my life in the form of songwriting. I started writing songs when I was fourteen and fell in love with the art form instantly. Music is definitely my first love. Artists who had a huge influence on me growing up were songwriters like Ben Harper, Dave Matthews; John Mayer and Alicia Keys.

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

I hope I continue writing and releasing new music. My biggest fear is that I’d stop writing songs someday. That would be crippling.

Will there be any tour dates? Might you head to the U.K. at all?

The U.K. might be on the list! I did three shows in the U.K. back in 2014 and have been itching to go back ever since! As of right now, my team has secured a few dates for Australia next year.

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

I remember all the late nights I used to spend writing songs back when I was a teenager. I would pretend to be asleep in my room with all my lights off. I would then use the streetlight that would shine through my window as a light source and stay up all night writing in my notebook. I miss that. I miss writing just for the sake of writing, without the pressure of turning them into studio-quality songs.

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

Wow. Tough question. I would love to open for James Bay and support him on his tours if I could.

As for the rider: an unlimited supply of warm green tea, please!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

To be yourself - and not let the industry change you. At the end of the day, all that matters is making music that you feel is true to you.

IN THIS PHOTO: lemin.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a new artist out of Toronto I just discovered the other day who goes by the name lemin. I love her new song, My Body - “My fingers talk about your hands/My mouth tells me about your lips/My silhouette just won't stop talkin' 'bout your fingers on my hips/It's so loud”. So beautifully written!

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

Lately, I’ve been spending a lot of time outdoors; just getting in touch with nature. Being beside any body of water helps me recharge.

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).

Lemin. - My Body

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Follow Astha

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/asthamusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/asthamusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/asthamusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/astha

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2ea3mHdtc2a5IqmQQXhDCF

Bandcamp:

https://astha.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3nLn_GQBnHVkUoRGM-FdWw

INTERVIEW: cleopatrick

INTERVIEW:

cleopatrick

___________

THERE is a long and deep connection between…

the guys of cleopatrick. I have been speaking with them about their new single, youth, and whether further material will arrive – they tell me how they got together and what Ontario is like in terms of music and vibe.

The cleopatrick boys reveal some hot-off-the-press tour dates and talk about favourite musical memories; they highlight some upcoming artists to get behind; some useful advice for emerging musicians is provided – they end the interview by selecting some great songs.

____________

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

Incredible, dude. Life is incredible.

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

Hey. We are cleopatrick; two twenty-one-year-old dudes talking sh*t with a guitar and a drumkit.

Youth is the new single. What is the tale behind the song?

Youth is about a lot of things - growing up; not fitting in; regretting inaction and regretting action. It’s melancholic nostalgia in the key of Dm.

It seems like it holds personal anger and struggle. Was it quite cathartic ‘letting it all out’, as it were?!

For sure. There have been a lot of shows where we get to that ending moment and I let a bit too much emotion out in those lines and lose my voice for the whole outro. A dangerous song, but it feels amazing.

Will there be more material coming a little later? What are you working on?

We are writing a bunch of new stuff at the moment. Not really sure what it is, what it’s for and when it will be heard. But, if you catch us live you'll get to enjoy them a lot sooner.

How did cleopatrick start life? When did you start making music?

Ian and I met and instantly became best friends on the first day of junior kindergarten at the tender age of four. We started making music four years later, when we turned eight, and our parents got us both semi-matching acoustic guitars. Cleopatrick started when we graduated high-school.

Ontario is your base. What is the area like for local talent and great venues?

Ontario is where it’s at right now for emerging guitar bands. Some people like to think otherwise but the musicians in this scene are some of the most creative, hardworking and incredibly talented artists we have ever met. Some great bands that are clearly about to blow up; I’m talking Ready the Prince, The Kents; Texas King - the list goes on and on.

In terms of music; what do you listen to when not recording your own?

We listen to a lot of stuff. I've been obsessed with Anderson .Paak for the last six months of my life. BROCKHAMPTONs Saturation trilogy. The new Arctic Monkeys record is fucki*g unreal. Anything cool and real.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Well. I was hoping we’d become the top-grossing artist in the world so I could buy a motorcycle, but it looks like we are running out of time in 2018 to make that happen. So, pushing that to next year, I think we are just looking to make some awesome memories with our friends and share our art with as many new people as possible. Also, maybe quit our day jobs…

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

We threw an insane house-party in my living room for the Daphne Did It music video. It was exclusively friends and long-time cleo supporters. That was genuinely the best night of my life. Looking out and seeing so many beautiful people that have helped push my dreams into reality.

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

Probably Post Malone.

Our rider would only state that he has to hang out with us in the green room for, like, fifteen minutes - All for Instagram.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make music that you think is dope. Say things that give you a weird but cool feeling in your chest - and make it about having fun with your friends. Nothing matters. You’re pinned down to a rock in space.

Where can we see you tour before the end of the year?

19.09: Cologne, Germany – Studio 672

21.09: Hamburg, Germany - Reeperbahn Festival

28.09: Huddersfield - The Parish

29.09: Nottingham – Rockcity Hey Hey Hey

30.09: Glasgow - King Tut’s

02.10: Cardiff - Clwb Ifor Bach

03.10: Birmingham - Sunflower Longue

04.10: Leeds – Oporto

06.10: Manchester - Neighbourhood Festival

07.10: London - Communion Club Night

IN THIS PHOTO: Ready the Prince

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ready the Prince.

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

Hangout with our friends; talking about Drake with Sanjay; making dumb jokes in my basement; drinking SoCIAL LITE with Jake Shorten.

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).

Dead Roads by Ready the Prince

Stoned Love by dubé

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Follow cleopatrick

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/cleopatrickmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/_cleopatrick_

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/streamcleopatrick

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/cleopatrickpics/

Bandcamp:

https://cleopatrick.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Moon

INTERVIEW:

Moon

___________

TO start the week…

I have been speaking with Chicago’s Moon about their new album, Extinction, and what sort of themes inspired it; the guys each choose their favourite song from the record – I was keen to know how the band got together and how they feel their sound has developed.

David, Shen and Chris recommend some new artists and reveal their ambitions for the rest of the year; which artists have been important to them; if there are gigs booked in the diary; whether they are coming to the U.K. to play – they each select a song to end the interview with.

____________

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

Chris Schneberger: Good! We got together for the first time since our album release show on 9th June and we discussed some show ideas and where we want to take our sound going forward.

David Azizinamini: Good, busy.

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

David: Singer and guitar player…

Shen (Chris Shen): I’m Shen, the bassist...

Chris: I’m Chris, the drummer. I hit stuff with sticks. As for the band, I describe our sound as heavy, melodic; propulsive guitar-driven Indie-Rock with touches of Shoegaze and Prog.

Extinction is your new album. What sort of themes inspired it?

David: Extinction of life...though that seems super-obvious; it's also metaphorical; the extinction of past memories, past times; this climate we are in, politically, in the U.S. is terrifying to me. But, even beyond that, our consumption, our self-serving desires…they all were themes to me in writing the lyrics.

Moon - There's Light Here from Christopher Schneberger on Vimeo.

Is there a track from the album you all gravitate towards?

Chris: There’s Light Here is the single and very energetic, a real rocker. But, I hope people discover the song, Siberian. It’s one of my favorite songs we’ve ever written.

David: I love Revolutions, musically, but I feel Siberian, lyrically, more. Again, the reckless abandon of war and destruction were in my mind when I wrote it.

Shen: I like them all (obviously) but, if I had to choose one, I’d say Siberian is the most Moon-esque song since it contains a lot of our qualities: long, spacious; multiple parts, shifts between heavy and mellow.

 

This is your third record. How do you feel you have developed since your formation?

Shen: We’re writing at a higher level more consistently; less material that feels like B-sides - that comes the longer you play together as a unit. We’ve also worked a bit more straight-Rock into our sound (songs like There’s Light Here and Wishlist).

David: I felt like I knew what I wanted more...I became comfortable with the fact that we are a different kind of band so I just embraced who WE are instead of hoping to sound like what I thought people wanted. “Do you” as we say! (Smiles).

Chris: Definitely, more concise songwriting. That, and incorporating the influence of Donna Summer…

When did that formation happen? When did Moon get together?

Chris: Around December 2008, I was advertising for local musicians to play with and got together with David and a bass player I had previously tried out with, Pat LaRose. Pat was a very melodic player and went along great with David’s echo-drenched, chiming style. Within the year, we were playing some small shows and recorded a three-song E.P.

Pat was with us for a few years and we recorded our first full-length album and another E.P. with him. Then, he left for New York and we found Shen. He’s an incredibly talented player and we’ve recorded two more studio albums with him.

Do you all share musical tastes? What sort of sounds do you listen to?

Chris: I think our tastes overlap but aren’t all the same. For instance, Shen and I share a love for some Metal and Prog like Rush and Iron Maiden but I’m really a child of '90s Indie-Rock. Some of my favorite bands are from that era - like Superchunk, Poster Children; Archers of Loaf, Number One Cup and Built to Spill.

PHOTO CREDIT: Dot Morton

David: Chris and Shen are more like-minded than me. They love the Classic Rock stuff but I have limited information about that kind of music. I grew up listening to ABBA and top-40 Pop radio like Michael Jackson. When I was nine or so, I got into Punk and listened to the Dead Kennedys religiously. From there, it was really anything with melody and washy guitars: Bleach and In Utero by Nirvana…and then it was Radiohead, Elliott Smith; Jeff Buckley, Circa Survive; Slowdive: anthemic, epic bands with great singers and lovely melodies.

Shen: I came upon Heavy Metal like Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath and early-Metallica but I also like some bands that could be considered as the start of Emo and Alternative like Jane’s Addiction, Sunny Day Real Estate and Quicksand.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Dot Morton

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

David: Tackling the Midwest United States right now.

Chris: Also; we’d love to support a touring band.

Do you reckon you’ll come to the U.K. and perform this year?

Chris: Haven’t you seen us there? We exclusively play random phone boxes in the town of Barnsley. I’m sorry you haven’t been witness to one of these. They’ve been packed houses! In all seriousness, we would love to come to the U.K. We await the invite from Hammersmith Odeon soon.

David: I'd love to...all of my favorite bands are from there it seems. Maybe, a bill with Radiohead and Wolf Alice!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

David: Promoting Extinction and writing more; introducing new elements into the music as well. I love being in a three-piece but I love when three-pieces introduce layers...probably why I love The Joy Formidable.

Chris: We’re hoping to play more shows and to more people. The new album is getting heard and the response has been great. We just want to play to crowds of like-minded music listeners. Plus, the end of this year will mark our tenth anniversary - and we’d like to celebrate that with a big show.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Rzewnkicki

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

David: Singing Mountain Song by Janes Addiction when I was in 9th grade in my friend's basement for a birthday party. It was my first time playing with other musicians. They wouldn't let me be in the band though...said I didn't move around enough. Fu*k those guys! (Laughs).

Chris: I think my favorite memory was playing a show at the Empty Bottle, my favorite club in Chicago, where I’ve seen countless great bands and looking up at David during my favorite instrumental passage in our song, Losing the Light. We shared a smile and I was just so happy to be making this music that I loved with people that I love.

Shen: One of my favorite memories is a recent one: the day I got my copy of Extinction. I really like the way it turned out. I just think it sounds how we’re supposed to sound. It’s hard to capture a band in the studio but I think we accomplished that on this. As far as all of the recordings I’ve been a part of, this one is definitely one of my favorites.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Rzewnkicki

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

David: I'd support Radiohead and I'd only request to sing Scatterbrain with Thom.

Chris: I would support Superchunk (since Rush is retired) and insist we do a pre-show shot of Malort. It’s an awful, bitter digestif drink found in Chicago. You shoot it, chase it with an Old Style (cheap beer) and yell “LET’S GO HAWKS!” (Chicago Blackhawks (hockey team), that is.)

Shen: I’d love to have Hawaiian Sun Passion Fruit juice at every show. I grew up in Hawaii drinking it and it’s my absolute favorite - and it’s hard to find on the mainland so, if someone could supply it for me that would be awesome.

PHOTO CREDIT: Ed Rzewnkicki

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Chris: Get started early, go full-bore and have fun. Keep your standards high and your expectations low.

David: Do it 100%. Do not give a s*it about cars or houses that your friends buy or hope to buy; eat and breathe music, write every day...tour till you can't move...then do it again.

Shen: You have to try to find that balance between having fun but also being serious and smart. If you’re all business, you’ll miss out on some joys of playing music but, if you’re having too much fun and not thinking enough about the business end you may miss some opportunities.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

David: Protomartyr!

Chris: There are so many great bands right here in Chicago. My current favorite is RLYR but I also recommend Rocket Miner, Huntsmen and Polarizer.

Shen: We Killed the Lion from Chicago is one of my current favorites. I also really like A Friend Called Fire - also from Chicago.

 IN THIS PHOTO: A Friend Called Fire

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

David: I work at the greatest music shop in the world (Chicago Music Exchange), so I suppose that's how I chill: around music.

Chris: Honestly, music is my way to unwind. I teach at three-four different colleges and that keeps me really busy. The band is an escape. Otherwise, maybe travel and movies.

Shen: I don’t have much free time between work and music but, when I do, I try to get outdoors and go hiking, fishing; swimming and surfing.

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).

Chris: Slipstream Summer by RLYR

David: Wheel of Fortune by Protomartyr (ft. Kelley Deal)

Shen: Galaxy Girl by We Killed the Lion

_____________

Follow Moon

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MoonChicago/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/moon_band

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/moon-141

ReverbNation:

https://www.reverbnation.com/moonchicago

Bandcamp:

https://moonchicago.bandcamp.com/

FEATURE: The Instagram Generation: Is It Music’s Most Effective Marketing Tool?

FEATURE:

 

The Instagram Generation  

IMAGE CREDIT: Getty Images 

Is It Music’s Most Effective Marketing Tool?

__________

IF you think about some of the most iconic…

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

Instagram images from the past few years; chances are a fair few of them will feature musicians! Beyoncé’s baby bump, posted back in February 2017, was a huge story and it was not tied to any marketing campaign. The photo was not shared as part of a promotion and few were expecting it: she was caught in a moment, albeit quite elaborate, and shared it with her 100 million-plus army. Look at the results of the top-three most-viewed Instagram images of last year and you can see how musicians feature:

“The result is perhaps unsurprising, given that the photo broke the site’s all-time ‘most liked’ record back in February, but the total number of likes has now jumped from 7.3 million to 11.1 million.

Elsewhere in the top 3, footballer Cristiano Ronaldo‘s photo announcing the birth of his twins has garnered 11 million likes since it was posted earlier this month, while Selena Gomez‘s hospital bed photo, which she used to reveal she had undergone a kidney transplant, comes in third with 10.3 million likes”.

The results show there is a lot of currency and draw when it comes to artists. Whilst huge artists like Beyoncé, Ariana Grande and Lady Gaga use it to share big news and open up to their fans; in music, it is part of the marketing cycle. I am not on Instagram myself but have been advised to do so: it is a way of updating followers and presenting pictorial and video snippets of my work.

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

I am currently on Twitter and Facebook but wonder whether people would follow any Instagram posts. I am not one for taking selfies – few people want to see my face! – but there is stock in posting my work on the site and taking a more image-driven and different approach. There are two sides to Instagram when it comes to modern artists. There is that aspect that ties in with Facebook/Twitter teasers and YouTube videos. They will post snippets of audio or tease photos to their fans; it is a way of connecting with millions all at once and, in a lot of cases, a more direct and accessible way of bringing people into their lives. It seems hardly a moment goes by without another Instagram shot of a slice of food or a drink; some random location or a selfie. It has become a monster that, for better or worse, is integral to our daily lives.

We would like to share our love and happiness. We have been blessed two times over. We are incredibly grateful that our family will be growing by two, and we thank you for your well wishes. - The Carters

A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on Feb 1, 2017 at 10:39am PST

It seems the act of making music involves a lot of time thinking about your Instagram profile. Every single release comes with Instagram snippets, photos and videos. Whereas Facebook and YouTube can be a lot more difficult to push to the masses – it is easier and quicker getting all the information in one spot – Instagram provides that easy and community-led option where we can get all our news and snippets. Look at Beyoncé’s Instagram and it is a lot more full and frank than her Twitter account (it has only a few posts; one suspects that will change soon!). It is weird to think many artists spend more time on Instagram more than they do on all the other social media channels combined. When Selena Gomez’s kidney transplant took place; she did not think to call the news or have a big press conference – neither was it an event she could keep secret from her fans. She posted that photos to her fanbase and ensured people all around the world were informed and their minds at rest – the love and feedback she got was hugely impassioned and supportive. The personal and open nature of Instagram means big stars can share news about their health, life-changing events and the most mundane aspects of their days.

A post shared by Beyoncé (@beyonce) on Sep 23, 2017 at 10:03am PDT

I love how Instagram has these two sides: the go-to portal for artists to share every iota of their day and the place where they can reveal big news and musical plans without circus and having the media/labels involved. I want to bring in an article, written last year, that looks at the way Instagram is used and how one can compartmentalise its uses:

“Across the board, Instagram is huge for music, serving as a uniquely addictive and organic conduit between artists and fans. Despite the social network’s roots as a photo app, four of its five most-followed accounts belong to music stars (Selena Gomez, Ariana Grande, and Taylor Swift join Beyoncé in the top five). And of Instagram’s 800 million users worldwide, about 350 million follow 10 or more verified musicians…”

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

“Not surprisingly, Instagram’s users are more music-oriented than the general population. They spend 30% more time listening to music each week and are twice as likely to pay for a streaming service, according to a Nielsen study commissioned by Instagram last year.

The app isn’t just a digital playground for Grammy winners and Billboard chart toppers, either. Artists of all stripes, from pop superstars to DIY indie bands and bedroom songwriters gravitate to Instagram to promote their work, document their day, seek inspiration, and interact with others. In fact, it’s rare to find an active band, singer, or other musical artist who doesn’t have an Instagram account.

I’m so grateful for these women, for the words they’ve written and the worlds they’ve created through their art.. so stoked to have you at the show in London @adele and JK ❤️. Always.

A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift) on Jun 25, 2018 at 5:01am PDT

"This music-focused use case may not have been what Instagram originally set out to do; it actually appears to be accidental. But the Facebook-owned company is now embracing its role in artists’ lives and working closely with the music industry to make the most of this unexpected relationship..."

“For artists, this is a real creative space where they can reach a community super effectively by expressing their visual voice in the most raw possible way,” says Lauren Wirtzer-Seawood, Instagram’s head of music partnerships. “They don’t need to rely on all the old-school forms of communication like radio advertisements. When they want to announce that they’re going on a world tour and tickets are available, a lot of them announce it first on Instagram”.

The artist can find this loving – not always – and inspiring place where they can share photos and news without having to worry about security breaches, hackers or trolling. There have been some cases of celebrities using Instagram to cause a bit of a stir – including Kim Kardashian getting naked or body-shaming – but the fact some of the most-popular people on Instagram are artists means it has a big role in the industry. To be fair, the big names are U.S. Pop artists: Ariana Grande and Taylor Swift are two immensely powerful female artists who have created a brand on Instagram.

IN THIS PHOTO: Adele (photographed in 2015)/PHOTO CREDIT: Alasdair McLellan

I wonder how much the artist gets involved with their promotion – whether the label and managers control their content. Consider artists like Taylor Swift and Adele, let's say and the posts they put out on Instagram. When a new single/album comes out, they have to ensure they drip-feed news and teasers; little photos of album covers or candid snaps – keeping the fans guessing, invested and hooked. I wonder, too, whether they have a lot of freedom when it comes to non-music-related photos/posts – them at home or on the move; relationship statuses and selfies of them relaxed. I guess there is a lot of monitoring to ensure nothing too risqué, controversial or revealing is put onto their account. People like Lauren Wirtzer-Seawood are assisting modern artists by ensuring they make the most of Instagram. Advice will include ways to utilise apps and best sell their tours and merchandise. She advises stars how to use the site to get the most out of their tours and new music; get ahead of the competition and timing: dropping posts at specific times and ensuring every move and post is well-timed and dropped to maximise impact and exposure. This sounds very rigid and business-minded but, to be fair, it is a good way for artists to promote themselves and ensure what they are posting, largely, has relevance and helps promote their music.

Beating up road soon

A post shared by champagnepapi (@champagnepapi) on Jul 5, 2018 at 4:15pm PDT

These teams and hired guns will listen to the music/new release and come up with ways to put a new spin and angle on it. They will devise strategies and connect with artists to ensure they can get the most from their photo and video output. Doing regular little videos ensures fans are informed and they do not lose focus; they are kept abreast of all the latest happenings and feel more involved with an artist – almost like talking with a friend and following their lives. These teams, admittedly, give reign to artists and allow them to collaborate. Some of the ideas (from the artists) are not great so it can be hit-and-miss when it comes to a fifty-fifty-split. Most of the big artists like to maintain their own Instagram accounts and prefer them not to get into the hands of labels. Instagram is used a lot when it comes to festivals and gigs.

Artists will post constant updates of their sets and experiences of gigs: so many musicians, in their own words, spend most of their lives on Instagram. It seems to hold more allure and promise compared to platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Of course; Instagram is Facebooks baby and most artists post Instagram updates from their social media accounts. There is that integration but, when it comes to real-time updates and the audio-visual posts; most views and comments come from Instagram. I am a recent convert and feel more connected with an artist by looking at Instagram. A lot of artists tend not to get too personally involved with their Facebook accounts – labels and management might – and Twitter tends to be word-based and is not as interactive.

Mood 1 #Beychella

A post shared by Adele (@adele) on Apr 15, 2018 at 1:30am PDT

There are features like Instagram Live which, like Facebook Live, allows artists to post videos of them at home or performing; they can shoot videos from their car or at promotional events:

“Since the launch of Instagram Live, fans have tuned in to live streams from superstars in scenarios that range from formal and promotional to lounging-at-home casual. Nicki Minaj used Live to tease her video for “Regret In Your Tears” in May, while more than 200,000 people tuned into Kendrick Lamar’s pop-up album signing in Los Angeles in April. Even when they don’t have something to promote, artists like Chance the Rapper, Rihanna, and Justin Bieber are known “go live” in more intimate, off-the-cuff moments–like this video of Chance the Rapper riding around Chicago looking for a RedEye newsstand after fellow Chicago rapper Noname landed on the cover. Or Rihanna watching her “Bates Motel” debut on TV.  Seemingly unfiltered moments like these offer fans something MTV and VH1 never could: a sense of what it might be like to hang out with the artists whose music they love, and even communicate with them through live comments (which the stars often read aloud during the livestream)”.

It seems there are so many facets coming in and Instagram, as it gets wealthier and bigger, is providing greater versatility to its users. This extends to non-musical users who can do more with their posts. It seems musicians are setting an example and showing just what can be done on Instagram. Whether it is video-sharing or photography; hour-by-hour updates or utilising the latest apps; it is drawing in new users who want to follow their favourite artists.

Paul at @abbeyroadstudios during the recording of #EgyptStation #2017 #PaulMcCartney #ThrowbackThursday #TBT #AbbeyRoad #London #AbbeyRoadStudios

A post shared by Paul McCartney (@paulmccartney) on Jun 28, 2018 at 9:04am PDT

Whilst it is hard to quantify the monetary value artists’ posts have and whether they add to album sales; it is clear the ‘Instagram’ campaign and tool is overtaking the likes of Facebook and Twitter. Acts like DJ Khalid use it more and feel its reach it broader and more varied. Consider the fact a photo of Beyoncé or Taylor Swift can garner millions of views/likes – that translates to more streams and greater investment in their music. It is hard to compartmentalise and separate the musical/monetary impact and the personal aspect of Instagram. Whilst that might be frustrating for marketing men and the labels; new artists are using it more to promote their work. At the start; Instagram was reserved for the mainstream stars and it was a slow revelation. As more became aware of its scope and multi-faceted potential; it became this bigger thing that has grown more tentacles and introduced new apps/technology. Before long; fresh and unsigned acts were using Instagram in the same way: promoting their latest work and posting snaps of them at gigs/on the road. The much-quoted article I introduced near the start (and have peppered throughout) talks about the benefits, limited as they are, of Instagram for newer acts:

“Even if they’re not as obsessively active on Instagram as some—posting everything from previews of new songs and boredom-killing moments from the tour van to funny memes—musicians often benefit from the organic, FOMO-inspiring buzz created when fans post clips from their shows. Even for users unfamiliar with an up-and-coming band or artist, a flurry of Instagram posts from their friends can be enough to create a sense that the artist is worth checking out”.

o well i couldn’t resist. fourty days @sweetener. 🌫

A post shared by Ariana Grande (@arianagrande) on Jul 8, 2018 at 9:45am PDT

With all the brilliance and vastness of Instagram’s galaxy come the downsides. Various artists have deleted or deactivated their social media accounts and one has to be aware of the consequences and results of posting certain things. I hear of members of the public in various countries who face imprisonment or worse for posting photos. Those nations with strict laws around nudity and religious morals monitor the site and harshly punish those they feel are taking liberties. Musicians have a less harsh time but there is still the risk of trolling. I maintain there is less strife and vitriol than you’d get on Twitter or Facebook; if they post various snaps and videos then they will get the expected haters and trolls that will have something to say. Whether that is a semi-nude photo or something minor – they are never immune from the downsides. Facebook are making changes regards data-sharing and protecting its users. I feel there needs to be greater protection for artists who share statuses and images to Instagram. Most have a fairly easy ride but the bigger you are, naturally, the more you are going to face hostility and trolling. Artists like Lady Gaga have expressed their reluctance when it comes to the amount of time they spend on Instagram (and social media). Whilst some might post about mental-health and the bad sides of social media; others feel it necessary to document every movement and thought. You get caught in a web where you feel obliged to notify fans of each motion – this raises anxiety and means, every time you tap to share a post, you are opening the floodgates to the anonymous haters.

I love the lgbtq 🏳️‍🌈 community more than I can say. So I’ll sing it instead. Forever. And that’s a NY promise. One love!❤️#equality

A post shared by Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) on Jun 24, 2018 at 3:18pm PDT

I maintain there are bad aspects of Instagram and we need to urge bigger stars to spend less of their time on it – too much use increases depression and can lead to anxiety. Who knows the pressure big acts face where they feel Instagram is an oxygen source and competition – monitoring how well their rivals are doing and what they are missing out on if they ‘neglect’ their fans. I guess there is always going to be that risk of using something where, at the click of a button, you can share life-changing news or drop an album announcement. It is always going to be a case of judgement call and risk-assessment when any artist, big or small, shares something on Instagram. If a well-timed post or statement can create a buzz and get positive press; putting something ill-timed and ill-judged can backfire and have a devestating effect.

Those posts goes to masses (millions, sometimes) and it goes out there; there will be positive comments and those less impressed. Artists need to be conscious how much of themselves they are sharing - personal information and their own flesh – and they need some downtime away from it. When it does work well, and they have teams behind them, it can be a hugely effective tool; one that is more potent and trending then YouTube and Twitter. The site is used by everyone from beauty bloggers to authors but, in entertainment terms; Instagram is becoming more about musicians and that side of the culture map – whether it is reacting to a Popstar’s latest snap or discovering when the latest Beyoncé/James Blake album is coming out. As Facebook faces struggles and Twitter’s validity/flexibility continues to come into debating circles; it seems the market share and importance of Instagram…

CONTINUE to grow and grow.

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

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms  

IN THIS PHOTO: Sudan Archives 

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

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EVERY week brings fantastic female artists…

IN THIS PHOTO: Tiger Lion

to the public attention. In my mind, they are more explosive, seductive and nuanced than their male peers – maybe it is a generalisation but their music lingers longer in the mind. I have collated some 2018-released tracks from fantastic artists including Sudan Archives, Self Esteem and Bella Spinks. Make sure you check out the arresting selection and, as the sun continues to shine and the heat sears; you will find plenty that will keep you distracted and hooked…

IN THIS PHOTO: Anna of the North/PHOTO CREDIT: Jonathan Vivaas Kise

LONG after the sun goes down.

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

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Ravyn Lenae – The Night Song

Caitlyn Scarlett – Ornaments

PHOTO CREDIT: Phil Sharp - Photographer

Olivia Chaney – House on a Hill

PHOTO CREDIT:  Kristyna Archer

Sudan Archives – Nont for Sale

Tiger Lion – Tyger Tyger

Tiphanie Doucet – Come to Me

Anna of the North – Baby (Acoustic)

Ella Mai - Boo'd Up

 

Self Esteem – Wrestling

CupcakKe - Hot Pockets

San Mei – Wonder

Bella Spinks - CALM

Rebecca Phillips – Burnt Peach

Kirbanu – Freedom Mantra (Om Mani Padme Hum)

Margaux Avril – Something You Can Do

BRUCH – Crown.

Lola Coca (ft. Instant Love) – A World Without Love

Katie Garfield – Warfare

IMAN – For You

Sasha Brown – Fix of You

Emma Ruth Rundle – Fever Dreams

Abby Anderson – Make Him Wait

Frida Sundemo – Over You (Pure Version)

Eckoes – S.B.F.

INTERVIEW: Bryony Williams

INTERVIEW:

Bryony Williams

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I doubt there are many busier artists…

out there than Bryony Williams! Not only is her new E.P., Conscious, out – which she talks about – but she is involved with GRRRL GROANNN!!!? Williams discusses her new music and releasing her first (with her team) zine; what she thinks of the modern music scene - Williams tells me whether she gets time to chill away from music-making.

I ask whether there are any tour dates coming; which artists have been important to Williams; whether there are upcoming artists worth some time; which three albums mean the most to her – Williams talks about ambitions she wants to fulfil before the end of the year.

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

Hey. I am great, thank you! Well; I’m currently on tour around the U.K. so this week is full of travelling, seeing new places; meeting new people, mini golf; happy hours…oh, and performing of course!

So, you could say I’m living my best life right now.

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

Sure! Well. My lyrics will most likely make you contemplate; their melodies will get ridiculously stuck in your head and, if you like to air-drumming, then you’re in the right place: think early-Wolf Alice with a dash of Lucy Rose and a sprinkle of Hazel English.

The video for Narrative Form is out. What can you reveal about its inception and creation?

Narrative Form is definitely not single material: it’s potentially the most unconventional track from the E.P.! So, with that in mind, I wanted to explore more abstract ideas in terms of visuals. It started when I was travelling back from Liverpool and there were blankets of snow across all the fields for as long as you could see - and I just knew I needed to have some outdoor/snow shots for a video. Then, instead of going straight home, I went and hired a camera out to do some bath test shots at home. I experimented with different lamps for lighting and lighting paper on fire to signify conflict and contrast with the bath water - which I advise anybody not to do because I nearly set the place on fire. I scrapped that idea.

Then, I just put out a Facebook status and my pals from Second City Capture took the bait. We shot in next-to minus temperatures, had food colouring poured into my mouth multiple times and laid in swamp/marshland in Cannock Chase for the drone shots which is a visual idea I’ve had ever since I watched the video to Jenny Hval - Conceptual Romance…except the girl would be nude with dirt smeared in certain areas across the body.

But, I kept it P.G. this time…

Anyway; the premise of the video is that there kind of…isn’t one. It’s open to anyone’s interpretation. Though, for me, it’s a very self-reflective and has feminist connotations – using the body as an object, as a piece of art as well as somebody’s idea of a piece of meat.
There’s also, definitely, some influence from the film Neon Demon. So, for fans of art house and avant-garde; you know what to do.

You should check out my single video, too! Again; directed by myself. This is for those who love a good road trip.

It is from the E.P., Conscious. What sort of ideas and stories compelled it?

The record is my coming-of-age soundtrack. It’s full of stories about hardcore lust, romance; manipulation and escapism. The stories are all real and are related to me but can often be told through a different narrative - that of somebody else’s persona.

I hear shades of artists like Marika Hackman in your work. Who do you count as idols and guides?

Well, thank you. Ah. I have to say icons like Joan Jett, PJ Harvey; Patti Smith, Anastacia; Elizabeth Frazer, Suzi Quatro; Theresa Wayman, Grimes; Kim Gordon and Viv Albertine. Through autobiographies to their music to their personalities and presentation, they all have me so encompassed and in awe of their journey from start to present.

When did music come into your life? Who do you grow up around?

Music has always been part of my upbringing. My dad is a huge music fanatic and collects autographs, vinyl and posters – you name it! Which has, inevitably, been passed down onto me. I grew up listening to a lot of Prog-Rock, Roxy Music; Brit-Pop (Genesis, The Beatles; Blur, Nirvana and Empire of the Sun). My earliest childhood memory is seeing Macca’s Live and Let Die Tour - I was five at the time...

So, obviously, I wanted to be a Rockstar!

When I was nine, my dad took me to a music shop to scout out my first guitar; the salesman suggested a cute pink one…I thought ‘get real!’ and pulled on my dad’s shirt and pointed to the red one. We left with a ¾ neck-sized red Strat and here I am now…just with a couple more guitars in my possession.

What do you think of the modern scene? Do you think female songwriters get the credit and respect they deserve?

I can see a lot of empowering women in the scenes I’m involved/observing: artists such as Dream Wife, Laura Mvula; Courtney Barnett etc. It’s getting better (as everyone says in every interview…) but I’m not sure about the respect. Sure, there’s respect from the majority of audience members, music lovers; supporters etc but there's simply some absolutely assholes out there who, without thinking, will treat an artist different because of their gender. It’s a heavy mix of underestimation, ignorance and self-entitlement.

Talk to me about GRRRL GROANNN!!!? How did that come to be and why did you establish it?

GRRRL GROANNN!!! became an idea last summer while choosing my modules for the following semester. Music Innovation was the class and we had to come up with an idea of disruption which is where it all came from. I formed a business plan and pitched its purpose - which is to establish a female collective specialising in music.

There were the initial, smaller plans such as publishing seasonal music zines, monthly podcasts interviewing inspiring women; creating merch, a website and overall evolving into an independent record label; recording, promoting and distributing artists (who happen to be female) - with potential to host our own gig nights around the U.K. Perhaps, even, having our own festival similar to Lady Fest, Lilith Fair and Riot Grrrl antics.

So far, we have released our first music zine! This includes all gig photography done by me and interviews with Jen Cloher, Peach Club and Riot Grrrl Sessions (in Sweden). So, I guess call me the editor-in-chief! I worked with my good and highly talented friend Jess Webberly who designed the layout, our official logo and the cover design. I’m currently working on the next music zine, which has photos of ShitKid, U.S. Girls and Goat Girl so far.

I’m using this zine edition to also sell Conscious on C.D. to be cost-effective and to kill two birds with one stone. Like my music? Want a physical purchase? Cool. Have a personalised, burned C.D. copy and here have a music-infused zine, too! How cool!

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

I’m on tour right now!

8th July – Good Neighbour, London

9th July – Singleshot, Leeds

10th July – Centrala, Birmingham (my official E.P. Launch)

After the tour, I’m playing at The Sunflower Lounge, Birmingham (8th November) and will be planning another U.K. tour as a band to tour the E.P. in its full bliss this autumn - so, keep your eyes peeled for that.

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

Lots!

I’ll be working on my producing skills in my home studio, songwriting for my next record; touring Conscious, curating the next GRRRL GROANNN!!! zine and look into making some podcasts. I really want to start a podcast between my dad and his good pal Steve – together, they can talk about music forever and recall such amazing gig stories. So, it’d be great to record their music memoirs.

Then, besides all the creative drive, I plan to start my Masters in Sociology of Popular Culture – the aim is to become a published musicologist and I’ll be satisfied once I’ve been on TED Talks.

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

Honestly: it all merges into a big blur for me. There’s the making of the music videos, performing; being in the studio…but all of that has a thing in common and that’s being introduced to new people and contributing to various social communities within the arts. It’s heart-warming to collectively achieve these creative experiences.

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

Jen Cloher – Jen Cloher

Still Corners – Strange Pleasures

Beach House – Bloom

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep your momentum, go with your gut; shout about yourself – don’t be shy. There’s so much competition in regards to the volume of music that is being released constantly. It’s such a tough game so you have to believe in yourself and make others believe in you too.

Get a record out there, perform; sell merch, get creative and don’t go over your budget.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Sunset Beach Hut

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently met a young producer and artist, Kiera Carter, at a music conference not so long ago – she’s currently studying in Wolverhampton and she’s onto a few things. I’d keep my eye on her.

Then; I gotta say The Sunset Beach Hut and The Hungry Ghosts.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Hungry Ghosts/PHOTO CREDIT: Indie Images Photography

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

Hmmm; I don’t think I do! The closest I’ve got is when I was at Primavera this year as I was in full festival mode and I needed my phone battery for survival in case I got lost! So, checking emails was a rarity. I take refuge at my girlfriend’s place because it makes me realise that I need to appreciate the beauty of sitting outside with a G&T without the itch of having to be doing something productive. (Drinking gin is surely productive enough?).

But, even then I’ll take my laptop wherever with me answering interviews, radio plugs and all the lovely PR stuff because it ain’t gonna do itself - and this gal doesn’t have a team behind her. (Yet!).

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).

Oooooo! Okay, okay….

Chastity Belt – Different Now

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Follow Bryony Williams

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/bryonywilliamsmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/bryonywmusic

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/bryony-williams

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thelifeofbryony/

Bandcamp:

https://bryonywilliams.bandcamp.com/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHnuBLe8KPfxvdV4qZoolKw