INTERVIEW: Domanique Grant

INTERVIEW:

Domanique Grant

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I have been chatting with Domanique Grant…

about her debut single, Investment, and what its tale is. She talks about her upcoming E.P., Playhouse, and the themes that inspired the songs; which artists were important to her growing up; why the Canadian thinks her nation is producing so many great artists – Grant gives some useful advice to upcoming songwriters.

I was curious to know whether there will be any touring dates and which new artist we should follow; if she gets time to relax away from music – Grant chooses a classic song to end the interview on.

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

Hey, Sam! I’m great. Soldiering through this intense Toronto heat but loving the sunshine.

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

I’m Domanique Grant and I’m a singer-songwriter from Toronto that love’s making music that reminds people to feel something. I’d say, genre-wise, I’m a fusion of Pop, Soul and World - and I’m usually compared to fusions of artists like Sia and Sade, but you tell me (smiles).

Investment is your debut single. What inspired the song’s creation?

Yes! Investment is my debut single - and I’m so happy to finally share it with the world. 

Investment is about what we’d get in return if we were able to quantify all that we’ve given up for relationships. I had a blast working with Grammy and Juno-nominated producers Kuya on this record and they really brought it to life. Investment was inspired by a bad dating experience that simultaneous coincided with seeing friend after friend giving their all in long relationships, only to see their partners take all that they could, leaving them with little.

I really wanted to talk about the non-committed culture of dating in big cities alongside failed relationships and losing yourself after all is said and done...but, I wanted to talk about it through the lens of picking yourself up and starting all over again.

It is taken from your debut E.P., Playhouse. Can you reveal what sort of themes and stories you drew from to create the songs?

Well. I grew up living in quite a few big cities around the world, from cities in South America to East Africa. When you travel a lot growing up, you experience the world a bit differently and Playhouse really takes those real experiences - stories, I guess - and turns them into themes. The songs are all pretty personal as one of the underlying themes that Playhouse explores is how these experiences shape the meaning of home for me.

The E.P. starts from that perspective and ties it to conversations about relationships, identity; dream-chasing and more.

You moved between continents and was a motivational speaker. How did you settle into music – did you learn a lot from those early years?

I definitely did learn a lot.

In a strange way, the motivational speaking and travelling really informed my music today. I grew up playing instruments like the cello and piano, writing poems and shower-singing to the greats. I was just an odd, curious kid. Odd kids don’t always fit in and, I guess, that’s where reminding others that they do (fit in) turned into speaking. For a while, though, I felt like I just didn’t have anything important enough to write about. I actually really settled into music when the travelling got the busiest because I needed another way to share my experiences living in new places.

After settling back in Toronto, I was invited to be a part of a Dora-nominated theatre production where I was asked to include original music that connected with my life. After the show sold out and was nominated for a number of awards, I realized that this was something that I wanted to do and that’s when I started recording.

Have you always been into music? Which artists struck your heart growing up?

Music has always been a part of my life in some form. I was obsessed with a bunch of artists growing up. A few of them were Alanis Morissette, Sade; Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan and Bob Marley. I’d almost always have one of their songs on-repeat. They all told stories in a way that made you want to jump into their songs and celebrate, while still managing to affect you emotionally.

I am seeing a lot of great Canadian artists emerge. Do you think there is a reason the nation is providing so many great musicians?

Canada has an incredible industry that supports the arts and I think that - aside from the raw talent that has always been here - we’re really fortunate to have funding and resources that also support artists at all levels. The rise in artists like Drake, Justin Bieber and The Weeknd have also put Canada on the map - but, I also think that Canadians are hard workers and talented and that just speaks for itself.

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

Tour dates will be announced really soon at Domaniquegrant.com and I can’t wait to share.

Will you visit the U.K. this year and see us?

I’ll definitely be in the U.K. in 2019: another adventure that will be a first! We may be there sooner, though. I’ve heard incredible things about visiting and, aside from the incredible talent and fans there, you guys have this amazing chocolate with cornflakes that I can’t find anywhere else!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Finally sharing music with the world and (just) enjoying the process of a lot of firsts - including my first E.P., my first tour stops and more. I get butterflies thinking about it.

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

I’d say one of my favourite memories was doing my first TED Talk. It was on my bucket list and it was an experience that I’ll never forget.

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

Errr; that’s a tough one there are so many artists that I love. Definitely Sade, Beyoncé or Sia right now…I can’t choose. Just because I’m also a '90s kid I’d have to say that, if the Spice Girls ever did a reunion, I would opt for a sixth spot (smiles).

Rider-wise. Hmm; well, seven random things, in no particular order, would include:

1. Raw honey

2. Marshmallows and liquorice (my embarrassing love)

3. Hot yoga studio

4. Lots of mangoes

5.  A puppy (Mariah Carey-style, just to say that I did it…plus, I love animals)

6. Fenty makeup – just in case mine ran out

7. A humidifier

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Create music that you want to hear and be true to yourself (smiles).

IN THIS IMAGE: Chloe x Halle

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m a huge Chloe x Halle fan; though they’re getting pretty popular so I don’t know if they’re new anymore.

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

Not as much anymore. I love nature and love yoga so I think I’d be somewhere climbing mountains until I got to a dramatic flatbed to stretch in (laughs). That, or binge-watching until the new Game of Thrones season comes out. I also love a good book!

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

Fast Car - Tracy Chapman. One of my favourites.

For anyone reading that needs a reminder to live and appreciate exactly where they are...

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Follow Domanique Grant

Official:

http://smarturl.it/domgrantinvestment

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/domaniquegrant/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/DomaniqueGrant

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/domagrant/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4Q5NpY4101N3zqetlKFk7B

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq7Fpv81lZNY81h7nbSqBfA

INTERVIEW: SEIL LIEN

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Jimi Rae

SEIL LIEN

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THE majestic and wonderful…

SEIL LIEN has been telling me about the single, I Am Fire, and her fantastic new E.P., A Little While More. She talks to me about getting into music and the sort of influences, musical and parental, that helped guide her career – I ask which songs from the E.P. SEIL LIEN responds to hardest.

The songwriter discusses touring and explains the importance of being up on the stage; a new artist we should follow and watch closely; whether there is much time to relax away from music – she ends the interview by selecting a rather good song.

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Hi, SEIL LIEN. How are you? How has your week been?

Hwat! This weather! Just back from Glasgow, caught Mr Matt White (our bass/guitar player) playing with The Temperance Movement at Trnsmt Festival; I then hung back to see the folks and get things organised for our Scottish dates at the end of the month.

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

I’m SEIL LIEN (pronounced Seal lee-in). It's my Chinese name: my mother's Scottish and my dad’s Chinese. It means ‘little lotus’. 

It started as a little underground arts band creating live ambient landscapes, improvising and collaborating with different types of artists. It eventually mutated into a more structured band format but I have tried to stay true to its roots, placing a lot of importance on creating atmosphere. 

I am interested in I Am Fire. How did that song come together and what does it mean to you?

I had written the main guitar riff and had penned a couple of variations of the song. When I took it to the producer (and artist in the same name) Rico he got it; he could feel what I wanted to put across. We did a fifteen-hour session. It was a cold, dark Christmas night and we ripped it apart and put it back together again.

It’s not a blow-by-blow true story but certainly relatable. It’s kind of about admitting that you're sabotaging a relationship -  it’s not my story but it’s a narrative I've certainly danced with on more than one occasion. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Frank To (who designed the artwork for I Am Fire)

Can you tell me about the cover art for the single and how that was put together?

An old school acquaintance was making incredible artwork and he is being hailed as one of Scotland's most exciting contemporary artists. In his current work and the piece he did for I Am Fire, he manipulates and sets fire to gunpowder. It's really special! 

The E.P., A Little While More, is out. Do you think there are particular themes and stories that go into the songs?

It’s all true in one way or another... 

I wanted the songs to create a mood rather than just the words painting a picture. It's important to me that music is emotionally tangible. I worked really hard on that and really hope it comes across.

Is there a song from the E.P. that stands as a favourite? Which tracks means the most? 

Hmmm; not really. Although, if you had a gun to my head: I Am Fire is my favourite to play; Chase the Devil is my favourite to sing and A Little While More is my favourite to hear back. 

Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there a moment or artist that lit that fuse?

My dad plays classical Spanish guitar. I have memories of sitting by his feet watching him play things like Suite Española No. 5 Asturias. This passion for Spanish and Latin American guitar was passed down from his father. I’ve inherited the most phenomenal record collection and I’m very much influenced by it. 

I was a teenager in the '90s; I was into all the typical grungy stuff – Pearl Jam, Nirvana and Alice in Chains. I'm not sure who lit what to be honest…

PHOTO CREDIT: Jimi Rae

The moment that lit the fuse for this particular project I can actually pinpoint. It was seeing a music and dance collaboration between Nitin  Sawhney and Akram Khan. I was so blown away, I came out of the theatre and said: “I want to do that”. That’s when I started working with dancers and started creating 'atmospheric' music. It was the beginning of SEIL LIEN. 

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

I’m playing at the Hope and Anchor in Islington on 18th July and I’m very privileged to be opening for Sylvain Sylvain from the New York Dolls at his book launch in Glasgow and Edinburgh on 26th and 27th July respectively. 

IN THIS PHOTO: SEIL LIEN at Bush Hall supporting Sophie Barker (Zero 7 singer) 

Is the stage the place you feel the strongest and most free? How important is it being up there and performing to the crowd?

Ha, well. I was always a reluctant performer: I’m naturally shy but the need is greater; it’s the strangest thing and I’m sure that’s a common story in the history of performers. I dropped out of art school so had to find another artform to express myself….

I didn’t really think about the consequences until the love for songwriting was greater than my fear of the stage. It's a pretty special way to connect with people, which is ultimately why you do it...so, very important!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

I want the album to come out and for the people who get it to have the opportunity to get it and then we can all hook up and have a…party? 

IN THIS IMAGE: The limited edition version of the single is available here

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

Getting the funding from Creative Scotland to make the record. I felt free!  

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

Nick Cave - and vodka martinis.

IN THIS PHOTO: SEIL LIEN and band setting up at the National Portrait Gallery, London/PHOTO CREDIT: Talya Jacoby

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Find your voice, get a mentor and carve your own path.

Some years ago, dealing with different commercial producers and major labels, I was always told to try and write ‘happy tunes'....which I'm not very good at! One of these times, I went to Rico and he said something that has always stayed with me and influenced a lot of my later choices: “Everyone. Everyone gets spat out the other side. The most important thing is that you can live with what you put out into the world. That you can look back and be proud of whatever happens”…

For me, that nailed it. Integrity is everything and, if no one likes it, so fuc*ing what. You made a bit of art that was good for you at the time...

Hey; well done you!

IN THIS PHOTO: La Luz/PHOTO CREDIT: @sub_lation

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Well; it’s probably not new but it was new to me. I was painting in my studio the other day, the sun was streaming through the window and it came on BBC Radio 6 Music: La Luz - California Finally. It was perfect: I wanted it to last for at least ten minutes. 

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

When you work in the arts, it’s tricky because it’s not a job you can put away at 6 P.M. and go home - and now you have to smear your every move over the socials it’s now even harder to separate your home life from your ‘work’. In the moments in-between, I walk my dog; I paint, I sketch; I write, I listen to records... 

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).

Well. The sun's still shining and I'm off to the studio so, hey, La Luz - California Finally!

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Follow SEIL LIEN

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/SEILLIEN/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/seillien/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/seillien/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4vnIDDh2dkk3RRGtQuluYQ?si=m-pZZ3hURrqt7O19LbINQQ

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFWvsgZ5eUcRlC3Tx-DuIDQ

INTERVIEW: Caplin & Massiah

INTERVIEW:

Caplin & Massiah

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BEFORE I wrap up the day’s work…

I have been speaking with Zeeteah Massiah and Paul Caplin of Calplin & Massiah. They have been telling me about their formation and the anti-Trump message behind All You – I ask them about Donald Trump and how they feel about his state visit to the U.K.

The duo reveals whether more material is coming and if touring is a possibility; the sort of sounds that influence their music; which new artists we should get behind – they each end the interview by selecting a song.

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

Hi! Our week has been exciting but a little exhausting as we race to get our new video ready.

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

We are Zeeteah Massiah and Paul Caplin; a husband-and-wife musical partnership. We’ve made two Zeeteah Massiah albums together and we’re now releasing our first track together as a duo, Caplin & Massiah.

How did Caplin & Massiah get together? When did you find one another?

We first met in 2005 when we were both visiting the same person in hospital. Zeeteah was living in Germany at the time but we kept in touch and over the next few years, our friendship grew into a romantic and musical partnership.

All You is your new single. I believe there is a strong anti-Donald Trump message. Was there a particular speech/moment from him that influenced the song?

Like so many people, we used to regard Trump as a joke, just a buffoon. As his campaign for the presidency gathered momentum and he gained in confidence, we began to be alarmed by the things he was saying and the popular support he was attracting. Now, as our song says, we don’t think it’s funny anymore. Paul says: “If there was one single turning point for me, it might have been the notorious and nauseating video clip of him mocking a disabled reporter”.

He is coming to see us in the U.K. on a state visit. Do you think he will be met with a lot of fury and protest? How do you think he is changing/affecting the world right now?

Major protests have already been organized around the country, including a huge march in London. It’s reassuring that people perceive the danger to all of us of allowing people like Trump to gain political power and are willing to do something to make their feelings known. How is Trump changing the world right now? He’s dragging the global economy down and sabotaging people’s sense of right and wrong, true and false.

Will there be more music from you in the coming months? What are you working on?

Zeeteah performs regularly at clubs around London. Catch her if you can! We’re preparing an album of her live performances and writing new Caplin & Massiah tracks. More soon!

I get splashes of Bajan and Reggae in your sounds. Can you give me an idea of the music you both grew up around?

Zeeteah was born in Barbados and grew up with Calypso and Reggae. As a teenager in London, Paul was into everything from Mozart to Psychedelic Rock. The two of us have been through so many stages of musical development and enjoyed so many different musical styles. We love it all.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Our immediate goal is to promote our new single, All You, and the message behind it. After that, Zeeteah’s live album and new Caplin & Massiah tracks.

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

We both have so many…but:

Paul: Going from zero to famous overnight with Haysi Fantayzee - and the first time I wrote a song for Zeeteah.

Zeeteah: Singing with Tom Jones on a world tour. It was one long, crazy party (and what we’re doing now).

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

Zeeteah wins this one: Shirley Bassey. Tthe rider is that they get to sing a duet.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

All that matters in music is what you feel when you hear it. Make people feel.

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

Zeeteah has lots of live shows coming up. Just google ‘Zeeteah gigs’.

How does your live set usually unravel? Will you be playing new album tracks or dipping into your past work for upcoming gigs?

‘Unravel’? Hopefully, it doesn’t do that…

Zeeteah’s live shows cover a huge range of music, including our albums and classics that she loves. Caplin & Massiah is mainly a studio project but we’ll be planning live shows once we’ve finished our first album.

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

Zeeteah: it’s absolutely my favourite thing.

Paul: I’m happiest in the studio - but watching Zeeteah perform is absolutely MY favourite thing.

IN THIS PHOTO: Lady Leshurr

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Lady Leshurr; Sherrie Silver (dancer) and Laurence Jones.

IN THIS PHOTO: Laurence Jones

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

Not at the moment! But, in general, we make plenty of time to relax. We’ve just moved out of London and it’s so easy to chill in our new home in the country.

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).

Zeeteah: Bonnie Raitt - Something to Talk About

Paul: Nina Simone - I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free

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Follow Caplin & Massiah

Official:

https://www.caplinmassiah.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/caplinmassiah/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/Caplin_Massiah

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5hjDTZFUG5sG7op3lW8YgV?si=uUbc6znRQVSmSyKZ8g6yvg

FEATURE: Shaking Rumps, Rebellious Parties and Brass Monkeys: The Beastie Boys and Me

FEATURE:

 

Shaking Rumps, Rebellious Parties and Brass Monkeys    

IN THIS PHOTO: The Beastie Boys/PHOTO CREDIT: Glen E. Friedman 

The Beastie Boys and Me

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EVERY one of us can recall…

the sounds and albums that struck our ears at a very young age. We might not be able to locate that first moment; when music stuck in the mind and the world seemed like a much more interesting place! I can recall the sort of music I was listening to when I was in primary-school but, by the early-1990s, there was this strange, awesome force of nature: the Beastie Boys. I first discovered them when the band’s album, Check Your Head, was released in 1992. The album – the third from the clan – was met with critical praise and acceptance. There were some who felt the vastness of the cross-pollination was, at times, confusing – they admired the ingenuity and boldness. Stormers like Gratitude and Jimmy James were atom bomb-sized mindblows that sounded unlike anything else I had ever heard. My only exposure to Hip-Hop and Rap at that time was with the likes of Arrested Development and De La Soul – two U.S. outfits that were more ‘Flower Power’ and peaceful in their mantras. They combined wit and humanist outlook with something less controversial and more colourful. I would be greeted with the opposite end of the spectrum a bit later down the line: Public Enemy, N.W.A. and their ilk would open my eyes in a very different way! Check Your Head fascinated me because of its sheer number of tracks (twenty) and the fact it possessed economy – there were short numbers and no song really drags.  

After having something genuinely thrilling to talk about in the playground; I went back and ‘caught up’ on the Beastie Boys. Their 1986 debut, Licensed to Ill, contained their hits, Fight for Your Right and Brass Monkey – stone-cold classics that could be chanted, sung and hummed without too much disciplinary backlash! Paul’s Boutique – the 1989 masterpiece that, at first, divided critics – seemed to suggest what Check Your Head would be but, in a way, reached further than any Beastie Boys album. It remains untouchable and, when I heard it around age eleven, I could not believe all these samples and sounds fusing together to create something cinematic, biblical and head-melting. I still get the same feelings and effects at the age of thirty-five. The reason I am bringing up the Beastie Boys’ work now is that their memoir, Beastie Boys Book, is out on 30th October:

“A description on the Beastie Boys’ website called Beastie Boys Book as “a panoramic experience” and “a book as unique as the band itself.” It will cover the entirety of the group’s career, “revealing and very funny accounts of their transition from teenage punks to budding rappers; their early collaboration with Russell Simmons and Rick Rubin; the almost impossible-to-fathom overnight success of their debut studio album Licensed to Ill; that album’s messy fallout; their break with Def Jam, move to Los Angeles, and rebirth as musicians and social activists, with the genre-defying masterpiece Paul’s Boutique.” No doubt the book will also touch on the Beastie Boys’ later years, including the tragic death of MCA in 2012”.

I will be rushing out to get it for a couple of reasons: the fact the band is, sadly, without all of their founding members makes me wonder how they address the death of MCA (Adam Yauch). I wonder, too, whether new material will come in the future – is it possible to have a Beastie Boys record without Yauch?! Michael ‘Mike D’ Diamond and Adam ‘Ad-Roc’ Horovitz would be able to capture some of the spirit - but I wonder whether there would be a very discernible and noticeable gap?! (More on that later). Anyway…back to my experiences. Growing up in school meant inevitable discussion of Pop titans like Michael Jackson and Prince (bit of Soul and Funk in there) and, by the early-1990s, we had Grunge and Britpop coming in – the former died, I’d say, when Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) did in 1994; the latter sort of peaked a year later. There was that inevitable class-clash of Oasis (northern, working-class) and Blur (southern, lower-middle-class) and the styles each possessed – the more empathic, weed-infused togetherness of Oasis (that would be more coke-fuelled by 1997’s Be Here Now) and the cerebral, anthemic sounds that were always more Pop than Rock. Beastie Boys were the illicit and thrilling conversation that would bounce between buddies and newly-initiated – they were an American band and, at a time when British sounds were celebrated; it was almost taboo to mention a U.S. group with such passion!

Ill Communication and Hello Nasty (1994 and 1998) were the two albums when my love was cemented and indelible. The former record was not as lauded as previous efforts but, with the mighty Sabotage among its twenty tracks; who could resist the empathic and exhilarating song?! Its video, too – at a time when MTV was a thing and videos could only be seen on T.V. – raised plenty of laughs and school-yard parody. Gone (almost) were the samples and heavy use of older material: the boys brought more live instruments to the party and, whilst more organic in feel; the record still had that kaleidoscopic and cut-and-paste feel. Music at that time, from my experience, was a lot different to what the Beasties were serving up. Grunge was introverted and, at times, bleak whilst the Britpop shakers – throw Suede and Pulp into the blender! – were talking about their modern lives and the adventures, joys and missteps of existence. Beastie Boys went outside the nucleus and introduced people like me (and my chums) a side of America – and, for that matter, the world – we had never seen. From the early days (Beasties) of fighting for their right to party; the band were talking about strange characters, throwing in impressions, jokes and samples. It was more street-tough than the British alternative and, at the same time, seemed like a cooler and more elicit taste.

Almost like looking through the slat at a neighbourhood speakeasy: me and my clique knew the password and, as such, were welcomed into this heady and delirious world. Beastie Boys stood in the middle of the fire of Public Enemy and N.W.A. – black groups who were concerned with police violence, social injustice and discriminatory leaders – and the ‘ice’ of De La Soul and Arrested Development – an ethos that promoted coolness, fun and greater harmony. I am not suggesting Beastie Boys are/were the ‘warm water’ – although, if one stuck their hand into the Beastie Boys trough they’d pee themselves (I’ll drop the metaphor!). Regardless: the mid/late-1990s was a time of transition, discovery and growing up, for me. I was moving through high-school and, with it, the first tastes of what it was to be an adult. Holding my hand and keeping me company was the music of the Beastie Boys. One of my fondest memories of their music was listening to Intergalactic (Hello Nasty) in a school mate's, Stefan, bedroom. The window was open, the sun was shining and a game of footie was imminent – the pheromones of an enduring five-a-side swept through the neighbourhood like the smell of doughnuts at a fat camp! That song was the tip of an iceberg that combined Latin wiggle (Song for Junior) and Longue-Pop (Song for the Man). Intergalactic was the city-stomping, machine-processed gem that combined a sample from the 1985 film, The Toxic Avenger (as adapted from Rimsky-Korsakov’s arrangement of Mussorgsky’s A Night on Bald Mountain) and a sound effect one can trace to Resonator from the 1986 film, From Beyond.

The fact a single song could combine such disparate and unusual sources shows how far ahead of their time they were. Their eclectic and scattershot (in terms of sounds) albums made me look more closely at music and compositions. It was not only about big choruses, familiar tableaus and the sounds of the top-forty: now, as adolescence academic took a big grab of the testicles; Beastie Boys were there ensure I got through things and strode on. I can trace my discovery and passion for music to the likes of Kate Bush (a true icon of mine) and The Beatles. Beastie Boys was my first real taste of American music: something far away from the scents and sights I was raised on and grew up around. If song titles like The Negotiation Limerick File (Hello Nasty) didn’t provoke further investigation then I/we knew you weren’t that cool. I had a lot of love for the chart-approved sounds but the Beastie Boys were the cool boys bringing beer to the bike sheds and cracking awesome jokes – it was a wonderful experience, indeed. The 1998-released record was the end of the ‘traditional’ Beastie Boys sound. I often associate To the 5 Boroughs as a new era and phase. Not only was it the first Beastie Boys album to be released in the twenty-first century (2004) but it came after a six-year gap (the longest between any Beasties album). Songs like Ch-Check It Out and An Open Letter to NYC harked back to the earlier, innocent sound of the band and led many to proclaim (To the 5 Boroughs) the most complete and stunning album since 1989’s Paul’s Boutique.

IN THIS PHOTO: Adam 'MCA' Yauch

2007’s The Mix-Up and Hot Sauce Committee Part Two (what happened to the first part, you may wonder!) fared pretty well – the latter especially so; considering the cancer diagnosis delivered to MCA, it is amazing it got made at all. In fact, the reason there is no ‘part one’ is that of Adam Yauch’s cancer diagnosis. The band shelved the planned Hot Sauce Committee Part One and released Hot Sauce Committee Part Two instead – they were going to do a two-disc release but, following Yauch’s death in 2012, that was scrapped. I was five days shy of twenty-nine when MCA died and it felt like losing a long-term friend. It was a heartbreaking moment and I can only imagine how much shock and loss there was in the Beastie Boys camp. It was, to them, like losing a brother: the much-praised Hot Sauce Committee Part Two had a bittersweet quality. The boys were on top form and it seemed like they were producing the most exciting and natural work since their inception. Yauch’s death, aged forty-seven, was the last time I truly listened to the Beastie Boys. I felt things were over and it was a long time before I even heard one of their songs. The reason I have got back into them in a big way goes beyond the forthcoming memoir. I am, sure, fascinated to see what the surviving members have to say and get an idea of how Beastie Boys formed and how influential New York was in the 1980s.

Mike D and Ad-Rock have promised not to perform under the banner of Beastie Boys out of respect for MCA – one wonders if that means both artists will cease recording altogether. Although it is sad we will never get another Beastie Boys album; the fact they enjoyed four decades of fun, success and brotherhood is a huge achievement! Not many artists in this day and age can boast that longevity and sense of meaning – there is nobody quite like Beastie Boys. It is the fact Beastie Boys are unique and blew open the doors of Hip-Hop. From touring with Madonna (1985) and being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (only a month before Adam Yauch died); it was a wild and amazing time that changed the world. It is a shame there is nobody like Beastie Boys out there in the world: maybe they were this celestial one-off that laid such a benchmark that nobody could legitimately follow it! I am pumped to get their memoir in my hand and bring back some tremendous memories. I have recovered from the gloom that filled my heart following MCA’s death in 2012 and (am) finding endless pleasure in spinning Beastie Boys L.P.s to my heart’s content. Right now, Ill Communication and Check Your Head are top of the pile – Paul’s Boutique is never far away and always there if I need an instant blast of gratification. If you are unaware of the Beastie Boys – or have been a bit neglectful regarding their albums and what they mean – I urge you to get back into the swing and let their music do its work. A perfect afternoon would be listening to their albums and laughing, cheering and singing at the embarrassing riches that come forth. Whilst one of its founding brothers has departed the world; it is clear the spirit and genius of Beastie Boys will live on…

PHOTO CREDIT: Lynn Goldsmith

FOR generations to come!

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The Beastie Boys’ memoir, Beastie Boys Book, is available from 30th October through Spiegel & Grau/Random House

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Getty Images/Associated Press

INTERVIEW: Megan Airlie

INTERVIEW:

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Beth Chalmers Photography 

Megan Airlie

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I have been talking with Megan Airlie…

about her incredible new single, Honey, and what its story is. Airlie discusses classic singers and how they influence her; whether the scene in Glasgow, her hometown, has a great scene; which new acts we should get behind – she tells me whether Pop music, in her mind, has lost some of its depth and soul.

Airlie shares some favourite memories from music and reveals her ambitions for the remainder of the year; whether she gets much time to unwind away from music – she ends the interview by picking a song I had never heard before.

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

Great! Resting this week after the week previous - because I was playing XpoNorth and TRNSMT festival.

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

I’m a twenty-four-year-old singer-songwriter from Glasgow. I take a lot of influence from Jazz, Blues; Folk, Soul and anything I can dance to. You can find me playing solo or backed by a wonderful band. Some of them I’ve been playing with for a long time - which always makes for an electric show.

Honey is your new single. Can you tell me the story behind the song?

It was written five years ago now. It’s an easy breezy love song that was sparked out of a relationship I had. It denotes a more innocent time where you are totally engrossed by a new love and you want to spend every minute with them. In reality, the relationship itself was not all sunshine - which is why wanted to elude darker tones in the music video.

It seems to evoke memories of classic singers like Billie Holiday and Judy Garland. Are these artists you are inspired by?

Yes, definitely; especially Judy Garland. I have listened to her from a very young age,

Do you find more beauty and personal possibility taking from older music and the romance of the chanteuse? Do you think modern music lacks true soul and depth?

Pop music, way back when, definitely evokes a more romantic and, it seems, they thought more of what they were trying to say, whereas Pop music today seems less personal and is just a means for dancing and churning out ‘hits’ as fast as possible. However, there is music I feel - not in the charts - that still has the same push of passion and emotion. People still have soul!

Is there going to be more material arriving? What are you working on?

You can expect another single within the next couple of months - and I am currently working on new material to record and release at the end of this summer.

You are seen as one of the best new singers coming out of Scotland. Do you think the country gets the attention it deserves? What is the music scene like where you are?

Being Scottish, I have the internal pride in being so. So, yes, I always feel it deserves more attention, not just in music. The music scene is vibrant and bursting out the seams. Glasgow, in particular, you can walk down one street and hear multiple different types of bands playing. The scene itself in Glasgow seems to be quite cliquey, as if you have to earn your stripes before being accepted, but it is a warm environment to be in, mostly.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Beth Chalmer

Which artists and albums did you fall for growing up? When did music come into your life?

Michael Jackson’s Bad, Fiona Apple’s Tidal; Reuben’s 3 and Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions

There was always music around; from the Britpop and Punk my dad listened to; to the '90s Grunge and Alternative scene my aunt was a part of. I would always be listening to noughties and '90s R&B on the music channels. I started playing the saxophone when I was twelve and then started to take singing seriously when I was seventeen.

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

To have a solid record in the works and to get some good support slots.

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

Probably getting the opportunity to play XpoNorth this year with my band behind me. People were so lovely and responsive and I made a lot of contacts. I kept thinking: ‘Yep; this is definitely what I’m meant to be doing’.

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

Fiona Apple, for sure.

Rider: ideally, this would be good coffee and a bottle of red wine.

Can we see you on the road at all? What tour dates are coming up?

Currently, no tour planned but, hopefully, that (touring) will happen in the near-future.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stick at it. If you’re enjoying what you’re doing then the likelihood is someone else will do.

IN THIS PHOTO: Harry & The Hendersons

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Harry & The Hendersons and Russell Stewart - both Glasgow-based, Scottish artists.

IN THIS PHOTO: Russell Stewart/PHOTO CREDIT: Delilah Niel Films

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

Doing music is my chill time and escape from normal day to day life. I can’t seem to tire of it. I don’t get enough time to do it as I work a nine-five job.

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).

There’s new music coming out from a Scottish band, Awkward Family Portraits - and their new single, Baby Blue, is out soon

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Follow Megan Airlie

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MeganAirlieMusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/megan_airlie

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mgnairlie/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC221Z0R3vDb8_AMWxUC5U6A

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/meganairliemusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1ZNFvFawXZcxnHDYXhVLkr

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.

​​​​​​​

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.

_____________

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!

____________

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

_____________

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.

____________

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.

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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.

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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

___________

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.

____________

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

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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?

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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

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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.

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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