INTERVIEW: FINE POINTS

INTERVIEW:

FINE POINTS

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MY mind turns to FINE POINTS…

as they talk with me about their current single, Ready & Able, and their fresh record, Take Shape. Evan from the band discusses the record’s themes and what it was like working with producer Jason Carmer; how the band found one another – he chats about the scene in L.A. right now.

I was eager to learn what sort of music Evan grew up around and what gigs the band have coming up; if there is any chance of them all coming over to the U.K. – Evan recommends a current artist we should all seek out.

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

Evan: Hey. It’s pretty good! We just hopped in the van and are now officially on tour. Something strange happened this morning before we left, though. When we went to pick up our trailer, we noticed that the lock was smashed and there was a man living inside of it. His name was ‘Big Country’ and he had a bejewelled crown on his head. Some kind policeman eventually convinced him to leave and we were off!

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

Yo! We do dreamy jams with guitars, drums and synthesizers. (‘“We like to play” - Garth)

Talk to me about the song Ready & Able. What is the story behind the song?

This one is about seizing the moment and making moves when something inspires you. One life to live, you guys/gals. Our friend, Hannah Moriah, is beautifully featured and made this track something really special.

It is from your sophomore album, Take Shape. Are there particular themes that inspired the music? Do you all have a favourite cut from the record?

Being abducted by the future and the power of letting go….

My fave cut is The Fang. It was the first tune we recorded and the tracking process was so natural/easy. This was not always the case as we recorded the remainder of the album. It’s a dedication to a pal of mine that passed away last year.

What was it like working with Jason Carmer on the album? What did he bring to the record in terms of input and expertise?

Carmer brings in a high level of recording experience and knowledge of songcraft. He helped us spit-shine the jams and left sparkles on everything.

How did FINE POINTS get together? Were you all playing around L.A. in different bands?

Matt and I put together F.P. on our breaks from touring with Sleepy Sun. Josh (Drums) and Owen (Bass/Keys) have become an integral part of our ‘sound,’ as well. We’ve got a new keyboard player named Nick who is slaying. We live in the Bay area and all of us are involved in an array of musical and art projects.

Give me a sense of the artists you grew up around. Who inspired you to get into music?

Neil Young and Velvet Underground are the big ones for me. They make beautiful Pop music but also have really fuck*d up/abrasive moments in their songwriting. I love that balancing act.

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

Play the tunes out as much as we can. Sell some units.

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

Neil Young live in Barcelona at Primavera Sound. I’ve never seen someone head-bang as much as he did that night.

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

I try to support all peeps that are making music. It’s a tough gig these days. My rider is al pastor tacos and Mezcal.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Sounds cheesy but do it because you love it. If there’s another reason in your head (money, fame etc.) you’re kinda fuck*d.

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

A West Coast U.S tour is happening right now. Check www.finepointsmusic.com for dates.

Do you think you will come to the U.K. and play at all?

Would love to! I’ve been craving a full English breakfast. Fly us out?

IN THIS PHOTO: Vince Staples

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Vince Staples.

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

Not really. I usually chill with music. Mexican cuisine helps.

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).

Evan: Mulatu Astatke – Mulatu

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Follow FINE POINTS

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/finepointsmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/finepointsmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/finepointsmusic/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIAkbQGRtyHYUQUnyF7icyg

INTERVIEW: Club Paradise

INTERVIEW:

Club Paradise

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THE guys of Club Paradise have been speaking with me…

about their new release, Brother, and what its story is. I ask what the scene is like where they are in Newcastle upon Tyne; whether there is more material coming their way; if they are ready for the summer gig trail – they reveal the sort of music they grew up around.

I ask the guys if they get chance to unwind away from music and the advice they’d give artists coming through; which upcoming acts we need to get behind; what their fondest memories from music are – they each choose a track to end the interview with.

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

Nathan: Hi. We’re tremendous. It’s been such a pleasure seeing how people have reacted and warmed to the single since its release. We’re still over the moon with how the single launch went – so, that set this week up fantastically.

Jackson: Sweaty (to both)

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

We’re Club Paradise; a four-piece Indie-Rock band from Newcastle upon Tyne. I’m Ryan; I sing and play guitar; I’m Jackson I play guitar; I’m Nathan - the dummer; I’m Harry and I play bass!

Brother is your new tune. What is the story behind the song?

Ryan: The song principally is about greed - specifically, the story behind the Martin Shkreli drug price-hike scandal in America. That’s what came naturally and effortlessly when we wrote the song as it was going on at the time. Really, though, it can be applied, metaphorically, in other ways - how do you feel cheated?

It seems like it is ready for the summer and prepared to get a good tan! Do you have plans to get the song on the road?

We do! Although…we couldn’t possibly spoil the surprise just yet...

You hail from Newcastle upon Tyne. What is the music scene like there? Do you think it gets the attention it deserves?

Nathan: It’s certainly growing, that’s for sure. There’s a sense of unity with the majority of bands up here; everybody understands, for the scene to grow, there needs to be a communal aspect. All the bands and music lovers up here support one another and the crowds understand good music when they hear it. We have a number of very slick venues - and the younger generation is making a big effort to get out in numbers to support local bands.

There are artists such as Sam Fender and The Pale White who are getting quite a name for themselves amongst the country; gaining momentum every day whilst sticking to their northern roots. So, attention is starting to arise.

Ryan: Yeah. I agree. It’s important to know that the scene was totally dead when we first arrived under a different guise a few years back but now to see it flourish the way it does is really exciting and a privilege to be a part of!

What comes next for the band? Do Club Paradise have new material brewing?

Jackson: Absolutely. We have some bangers in the oven.

Nathan: We’re always writing new tunes. It keeps us refreshed knowing we can tweak the set and chop-and-change songs to keep things interesting for us and the people who come and see us. We opened our headline gig just gone with a new song that we love. It hasn’t got a name we’ve all settled on yet but it has a very engaging sample taken from an ‘80s coming-of-age film that fits it phenomenally. The song itself is nostalgic and anthemic and a joy to play live. We got goosebumps performing it.

Given that interesting name; is there a club, historic or music-based, you’d consider being ‘paradise’.

Ryan: for me, I’m not associating it that way. Our single launch party was the creation of Club Paradise - not only as the headline act but the start of its own place and the event name. We want to create Club Paradise for ourselves and have everyone else associate it with that. Our name is boundless…

Nathan: What springs to mind for me is a club located in Budapest named Corvinteto. I stumbled across it with my friends when I was travelling around Europe in May and fell in love with it instantaneously. It had everything: pulsating neon lights, ear-crumbling speakers; an idyllic rooftop overlooking the city and a real sense of togetherness with everybody who attended. I didn’t see one person not enjoying themselves - and that’s my idea of real paradise.

Give me a sense of the music you all grew up around. If we combined your record collections; what might we find in there?

Harry: Favourite Worst Nightmare by Arctic Monkeys was the first album I bought. Klaxons really got me into Electronic music. I was really into Indie stuff.

Ryan: I’ve been surrounded by such a diverse selection growing up. My mother listens to Northern Soul and Motown, so I’m heavily into all that stuff - and a lot of Soul, too. At the same time, my dad listens to everything from Phil Collins to Duran Duran and I think that sort of stuff comes in a lot more with what we do, musically. I chose a lot of different stuff growing up but myself and Nathan we were so heavily into the early Kings of Leon stuff.

I remember; we would just sit for hours on end listening to what was going on in the early-'00s and just being blown away. From being around eight-years-old, we wanted to do this because of everyone from Kings of Leon - even to Razorlight and everything in-between. But, the best physical record I own from start to finish has to be Funkadelic - Uncle Jam Wants You.

Jackson: Kerrang! Class of 2006.

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

We can’t announce that just yet!

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Ryan: We want to establish ourselves as a main player in the North East. We’ve been around for so many years under a previous name and that was our warm-up; we were prepping to do this. We’re much more focused and refined now. We have a set of songs we’re continuously expanding and we know exactly what we want to achieve. We’re here now and we’re not going anywhere but forward.

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

Nathan: I remember so vividly being in primary-school and waiting for the Christmas talent show every day so me and my friend could perform for the first time. We must’ve been about ten-years-old and we got up, drums and guitar; dressed in trilby hats, neckerchiefs and skinny jeans and blasted out a cover of Back in Black by AC/DC. It was exhilarating.

There are photos of me next to this drum kit that was twice the size of me. The teachers and parents were shocked. They thought it was going to be terrible but we smashed it. Looking back, it was probably awful but, from that point on, I knew all I wanted to do was play live in front of big crowds - maybe minus the trilby.

Harry: Writing music on Boxing Day when we started the band and we all received new gear for Christmas. We wrote several songs that day. They did not age well at all but we were exploring sounds and our instruments. It was a fun process.

Jackson: First time I heard a song I liked was on a Rey Mysterio website where it was, literally, just pictures of him with Numb Encore playing. I asked my sister what song it was and then I downloaded it.

Ryan: When we finished our first song as a band, around the age of fifteen/sixteen, I remember just playing it over and over for hours and I got home and I was so adamant that we were on to something…I’d never think the same thing if I wrote it now but it was such a significant transition to us: we went from musicians who played covers to artists then. It was spine tingling.

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

Jackson: Last Dinosaurs/The Jungle Giants.

My rider would be a bucket of ice, a can of Relentless; some vodka and a cinnamon swirl from the Co-Op.

Harry: Tame Impala. They had the best live show I have seen.

Ryan: Tame Impala are up there for me, too, but I’m not disappointed in changing that to Bear’s Den. I can never get bored of their music.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you’re doing something and you think: ‘But, wait; nobody else is doing that’, it’s not a bad thing. You’re doing the right thing by making a sound for yourself. No self-respecting band has ever become successful by being derivative - make your mark.

Harry: When starting out, say ‘yes’ to every gig. You network, get experience and improve as a band. We played an obscene amount of shows in our first three years.

IN THIS PHOTO: The Old Pink House/PHOTO CREDIT: Alex Robson

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Nathan: There’s another four-piece from Newcastle I’d highly recommend called The Old Pink House. Every song they have released on Spotify is an anthem. The singer has a very distinguishable voice and the guitar riffs are melodic; supported by a thumping, stylish rhythm section and moody, room-filling synths.

Harry: I am into a band called courtship. Right now, they just released their debut L.P. They have some great tunes, especially for summer.

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

Harry: Not really. It is always on the mind. I unwind by listening to music - so that doesn't help.

Ryan: The great thing about music is that you can use it for everything, including downtime. I do enjoy a cinema trip or reading, though.

Jackson: Playing Xbox babyyyyyy. Fortnite master.

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).

Jackson: As U Wave - HALFNOISE

Nathan: Everything She Wants – Wham!

Harry: Sunroof – courtship.

Ryan: Girlfriend - Christine and the Queens (ft. Dâm-Funk) 

________________

Follow Club Paradise

Official:

http://thisisclubparadise.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thisisclubparadise

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/thisisclubparadise

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/clubparadise__

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thisisclubparadise/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOIbHDA4wOF06sTEKhqab7Q

FEATURE: The July Playlist: Vol. 3: Musing, Feline Power and the Phat of the Land

FEATURE:

 

The July Playlist

 IN THIS PHOTO: Muse/PHOTO CREDIT: Patrick McPheron  

Vol. 3: Musing, Feline Power and the Phat of the Land

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THIS week has seen…

IN THIS PHOTO: Cat Power/PHOTO CREDIT: Lex van Rossen/MAI/Redferns

some rather unexpected twists and turns thrown into the mix! I was not expecting new music from Cat Power, Muse and The Prodigy but, here you go; all three have provided us with some fantastic new cuts! Let’s hope albums ensue and they keep the momentum going!

I have been excited by the volume and breadth of music coming through this week! It has been exciting, explosive and brilliant! Have a listen to the brilliant selection of tracks that have come our way and enjoy! I am excited what next week will provide and what the likes of Cat Power and Muse will come up with over the coming months!

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

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Cat Power – Wanderer (Intro)

Muse – Something Human

The Prodigy – Need Some1

Sarah Close – You Say

Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds – If Love Is the Law

Father John Misty – Date Night

PHOTO CREDIT: Natalia Mantini

Soccer Mommy – Scorpio Rising

Wild Nothing – Partners in Motion

Drenge - Before the War Begins

PHOTO CREDIT: Eliot Lee Hazel

Death Cab for Cutie - I Dreamt We Spoke Again

PHOTO CREDIT: Hollie Fernando Photography

Spring King – The Hum

Bebe Rexha - I'm a Mess

Billie Eilish - you should see me in a crown

ZAYN – Sour Diesel

The 1975 – Love It If We Made It

Áine Cahill - Beauty Is a Lie

Meghan Trainor - TREAT MYSELF

Alex Hepburn – If You Stay

Greta Van Fleet - When the Curtain Falls

PHOTO CREDIT: Ryan Saradjola

YONAKA – Fired Up

Chance the Rapper - I Might Need Security

LANY - Thru These Tears

Deaf Havana – Holy

The Internet – Mood

TobyMac – Everything

Eric Church – Desperate Man

Imagine Dragons – Natural

Ciara - Level Up

The Decemberists - Once In My Life

Jodie Abacus – You’re Crazy

Paty Cantú - Mariposas

HOLYCHILD - Wishing You Away

Daktoa – Hate Loving You

Cassia – Get Up Tight

Jessie Reyez – Apple Juice

Future Jr. – Changing

TRACK REVIEW: Fil Bo Riva - Time Is Your Gun

TRACK REVIEW:

 

Fil Bo Riva

Time Is Your Gun

9.3/10

The track, Time Is Your Gun, is available via:

https://soundcloud.com/fil-bo-riva/fil-bo-riva-time-is-your-gun

GENRE:

Alternative

ORIGIN:

Berlin, Germany

RELEASE DATE:

6th July, 2018

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WHEN looking at Fil Bo Riva…

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

I wanted to look at a few different things. I will speak about solo artists who, although they work with other musicians, have a split between isolation and being buried in the world – how the solo male artist is making a comeback and we need to see those idols come through. I’ll also address those artists with a more romantic and cinematic mind; musicians who travel and spend time in different nations; revealing a bit more on the page and showing the listener where they came from – I will talk a bit about bridging gaps between E.P.s and albums and how artists find their inspiration for songs. I am reviewing a lot of solo artists but, for the most part, they tend to be female artists. I am assessing men in music but it is harder for them to stand out on the band. In fact, more than ever, the solo artist needs to stand out and register in the mind. It is possible to stand out and stay in the brain but, in a packed and hectic scene, that is becoming more difficult by the day. Bands are fuller and they tend to hold more potential in the eyes of many – bigger sounds and more emphatic. I have always held a lot of affection for solo artists because they have to shoulder all the burdens and tasks of their career without anyone else’s help. Fil Bo Riva has a lot of lure when it comes to attracting new fans – which I shall address soon – but the young man has the ammunition to succeed. Many of us have to go through life and make sense of the bad experiences and the good. The way I see it is the solo musician can channel those times into great songs and stories. Fil Bo Riva collects together his time on the road and personal encounters and filters it into rich and stimulating music. The reason why I feel the band struggles against the promise of the solo artist is what the market expects from them.

Bands are often primed to have that festival-ready sound or they need to produce something big and bombastic. I know there are bands that can succeed by writing intelligent, softer songs but it is becoming harder and harder to separate yourself from the pack. Bands also have the challenge of creating harmony and balance in the ranks. They have members who might be on a different page and it can be quite hard compromising and finding common ground. Solo artists can create as they wish and do not have the issue of disagreement. They can also bring in other musicians, as Fil Bo Riva has, and make something fulsome and colourful. One of the reasons I wanted to mention this topic is male solo artists have to, at the moment, fight against that Ed Sheeran-like impression. Any songwriter with sensitivity and a guitar is, to many, compared to Sheeran. There are other mainstream artists culpable but the male singer-songwriter is much more interesting than an acoustic guitar and love songs. Fil Bo Riva brings in fantastic instrumentations and lyric ideas to create something heady and scenic. I feel we get it into our heads the male solo artist is going to be quite limited and not have the same clout as a band. Maybe the acoustic artists and hollow Pop artists of the mainstream have blurred our senses. Look out at the scene and there are many riches to be discovered. We are in a position where artists have more at their disposal and they have a history of music to pick from. I maintain the female solo artist is more interesting and fulsome: the male songwriter is on the rise and there are some fantastic examples on the market right now. One of the reasons Fil Bo Riva strikes my ear is a unique and personal sense of songwriting. He does not write to please labels or fit into some sort of niche. He is a pure and instinct-driven musician who fuses dynamic and dreamy guitars with diverse vocals.

PHOTO CREDIT: Mario Simic

Time Is Your Gun is the third single from the songwriter’s upcoming album. There are a lot of exciting times ahead for Fil Bo Riva and he has a lot of the world to see. One of the contrasts you get with a solo artist is being isolated and alone and having the world at your feet. With Fil Bo Riva; he gets the time to hunker in the studio and dedicate some time there. The musician loves being in the studio and seeing songs come to life. With a select bunch of musicians and other bodies; he can work on songs and build them gradually. Fil Bo Riva is someone who loves being in the studio and seeing the music come to life. Music leaves everything else at the door and focuses on the task at hand. The young man loves music and everything one can get from it. He gives his all to it and, in return, provides the listener with something incredibly direct, moving and engaging. I mentioned the contrasts and how solo artists have the chance to explore the world. Although Fil Bo Riva is a solo artist – many might be confused by other bodies in photographs – he works with other musicians on stage and allows his varied and kaleidoscopic sounds to expand and flourish. It can be quite lonely and hard for a solo artist and it is a lot of hard work succeeding and getting your career off the ground. Many find it too challenging and hard to keep pace or suffer from disenchantment. That passion and focus has to shine through and one must not lose sight of why they are doing this. Fil Bo Riva is someone who loves making music but he connects with the people and, I suspect, loves nothing more than being on stage and getting his music to big audiences. It is a heady and vivid experience being a musician today.

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

It can, by contrast, be suffocating being on stage and having that huge reaction from the crowd. Fil Bo Riva takes his experiences and stories from the stage and takes them into music. Fil Bo Riva was born in Rome but spent time in Berlin and Dublin – I will talk about that in a bit. It is the curiosity of the world and the need to take the music far and wide that makes Fil Bo Riva such a fantastic proposition. I stated how it is hard for a solo artist because we have an impression of who they are what they should be about. It is easy to get the impression they will all be quite dull or sound the same. That is true with many: in the case of Fil Bo Riva; he provides the strength and passion of a band and puts his entire personality and mind into the music. There is so much working away and there for the uninitiated listener. There is nothing to suggest Fil Bo Riva cannot claim big glory and become a mainstream artist. I say that because of the energy he has and how he puts his all into creating. The world of music is a vast and bustling one – you need to be steely and defiant to survive and get to the top. Fil Bo Riva balances being in the studio and crafting songs and being on stage and seducing audiences. The solo artist, I feel, will make a comeback and get the same respect as bands. A lot of the solo artists who get big respect and critical attention at the moment are from the world of R&B and Pop. Fil Bo Riva is more Alternative and Indie. Those styles have some great players but they are taking on the might of Pop, R&B and Hip-Hop. Rather than pummel us with energy and electricity; Fil Bo Riva goes deeper and wins your heart with a blend of urgent vocals and enticing compositions. The songs are very personal and real. You feel that direct connection with the songwriter – he provides a glimpse of the world you would not otherwise get.

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

With an album due; times are exciting for Fil Bo Riva. He has released the singles, Head Sonata (Love Control) and Blindmaker. Both of those songs had their own skin and sensation. Time Is Your Gun recalls the sounds of his debut E.P. but departs in a way. It does not sound like his other material and wets the appetite for the upcoming album. Even though he tries to steer away from the words; there is a romantic and cinematic sensation to the music. In fact, he embraces the word ‘cinematic’ and wants the music to project a rather grand and engrossing sound. In a way, his previous works have been snapshots or photos; impressions of a scene and a stable image – we can use our imaginations to predict the scenes before and after that photo was taken. In many ways, he has moved and creates more fluid, moving and widescreen music. Each song is like a story; one has a fuller and more stimulating type of music that brings more elements into the fold and has a rich and fulsome nature. I have been thinking about artists like Matt Corby and Jeff Buckley and how their best music is romantic and tender. They are musicians who won fans with spellbinding, passionate songs. It is difficult talking about love and life without coming across cliché or personal. The likes of Buckley and Corby managed to (Matt Corby is still recording) to win legions by writing from their heart but not being too insular and isolated. Fil Bo Riva has a romantic heart and, whilst not obsessed with love songs and his experiences, illuminates the page with a tenderness and colour that makes the heart skip a beat. Everything he does comes from his own heart and there is a lot of revelation and soul. Maybe I am losing my thread but it is nice to see an artist write songs that mean a lot to him. Fil Bo Riva is not chasing a market trend or writing material that has a commercial edge.

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

There is a lot of anticipation surrounding the upcoming album. The songwriter loves the album format and knows it is a very different world to the single and E.P. Whilst you can write unconnected songs or an E.P. that has loose ties; with an album, you have a much bigger task at hand. We are becoming less interested in the album and are moving to streaming and that quick fix. People skip through songs and d not often sit down and listen to an album in its entirety. Most of the records I listen to fully tend to be from years past. I love a lot of the albums released this year but do not often come back to them. It is harder for artists to attract and keep people hooked. Rather than pen an album of disconnected songs that could have come with anyone; Fil Bo Riva knows the importance of hooking all the tracks together and creating a real experience. I mentioned films and how Fil Bo Riva’s music has that moving and scenic sensation. Rather than write music that fades from view and does not provoke imagination; he writes songs that inspire you to close your eyes and picture what is happening. It is harder to leave an album and move quickly on if you are engrossed and distracted by what is being sung. It is more and more difficult producing albums where one sits down and keeps outside forces at bay. Fil Bo Riva has travelled the world and gained a lot from his time on the road. He brings all of that knowledge to the studio and writes music that takes the listener somewhere special. I will move on from this point – I was keen to explain how you’ll want to get involved with Fil Bo Riva’s album. I am excited to see what comes from Fil Bo Riva and how his album takes shape. Listen to the singles he has released and you get the sense something special is going to come through.

PHOTO CREDIT: Zlexander Aielasko

Fil Bo Riva started life in Rome but has spent time in Berlin and Dublin. In fact; Fil Bo Riva spent his school years in Dublin and decamped to Berlin in 2012. He has had different experiences of Europe and taken a lot from each nation. That experience of travelling and seeing different people makes the music so much stronger. What amazes me is the difference between artists who do not really travel much and those who go around the world. I feel the latter has an advantage and can create more varied and interesting sounds. Fil Bo Riva seems to have found his home in Berlin and is based in a city become more and more popular. So many others are locating there and drinking in the cultures and various nationalities there. It is the touring and that side of the coin that stands out to me. Fil Bo Riva has supported Matt Corby and Aurora and shown his muscle to those at large festivals and intimate gigs. The debut E.P., If You’re Right, It’s Alright, was released in 2016 and amazed critics and fans. Guitarist Felix A. Remm was added to the mix and that early solo sound mutated into an on-stage duo. The current project has four members: Fil Bo Riva writes on his own, I believe, but the recorded material is played by a quartet. Whilst he travels the world and spends time in other cities; it is the draw of Berlin that keeps him coming back. It seems like that mixture of international adventure and homely love makes the music shine and resonate. I feel, if you are more isolated and do not travel far; the music only has limited potential and it can be quite samey. The young artist has matured and grown over the past couple of years. The young man has the promise and energy to last a long time in music and inspire the masses. I feel the music he is making at the moment is his very best – it will be interesting seeing where he goes from here and how his music changes.

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

The singles we have seen so far have given one a taste of what the album is all about and the sort of images/sounds that we will witness. Fil Bo Riva has taken his music to various nations and drawn all of his life experiences into the fold. I wonder whether the young songwriter could go even further and act as a guide to new songwriters emerging. The musician has a lot of social media presence and keeps people informed of where he is going. He is across all the sites and options one might need and expect – you can get your fill, as it were. It is easy keeping in touch and knowing what goes on. I wonder whether more could be expended in regards to personal biography. At the moment, we can learn a lot about the music and how it has transitioned through the years. I would like to see a bit more about the man himself and the artists he grew up around. I understand why many want to avoid talking about that. It can be difficult revealing your influences because people hone in on that. You will listen to the music and, I guess, assume the artists Fil Bo Riva name-checks are what goes into his music. Rather than create that confusion and lazy journalism; he keeps stuff held back and allows people to make their own impressions. I would like to learn where he came from and what he is driven by, mind. I assume he was captivated by artists at a young age and it would be nice to see when he came into music. That is a minor slight and concern – most of what is put out there and known fills gaps and lets you know what Fil Bo Riva is all about. I shall move on and talk about his latest single, Time Is Your Gun.

One experiences some far-off and spectral notes from the off. The mood is quite moonlit and sparse. Rather than rush in with strings and needless rush; you get a more considered and haunted backdrop. Slight plinks and embers flicker and crackle as the hero comes to the microphone. When Fil Bo Riva sings, you have the impression of a young man who has experienced some heartache and disappointment. “Heaven’s beautiful in your head” is a line delivered with as much gravitas and potency as I have ever heard. You can detect the emotion and strain comes through. Maybe he is referring to himself and unable to distinguish between idealism and reality. He may have given his heart to someone who seemed perfect but, in fact, is not. Maybe neither is true and he is casting blame on someone else. The song starts quite slow and has that aching, echoing quality. It seems the heroine has lied – which makes the hero cry – and there is definite tension to be found. Rather than look at the song from the outside; the listener jumps in and follows the lyrics. That minimalist composition works wonders when it comes to emotional resonance. The vocal shines through and is what you are focusing on. You hear the passion and emotion in the voice and wonder what has provoked the split and unhappiness. Most relationships break up for limited reasons. There is no guarantee things will last, no matter how good they seem at the start. That might sound bleak but I mean it is hard to predict how a relationship will go and how long it will last. It seems things were good to start but have taken a turn for the worse. I am jumping to the relationship assumption without doing some proper investigation. The hero is in pain and is feeling the weight of the situation. The chorus comes in and, with that, the song takes a turn and becomes more energetic.

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

Percussion comes in and adds more drive and energy; there is more accusation and revelation. It seems the heroine messes the hero around and has been playing about. It seems like she is cheating or, at the very least, being dishonest and impure. Our man is unhappy and at his most angered. The girl wears a crown – he does not know why – and there is a palpable sense of release. Guitar and drum ramp up a bit and there is a definite wave of movement. It is the striking and slightly gravelled voice that gives the words such impetus, meaning and gravitas. You follow the song through and imagine the scenes taking place. The song’s title gets into the mind and you wonder what meaning it holds. In my mind, I was imagining a lover who shoots (metaphorically) at our hero and keeps on hurting him. Maybe she dredges up past memories and is not moving on; she might be able to reveal truth and plays with his heart. It is interesting reading that title and predicting what significance it holds. Time Is Your Gun keeps on brewing and raising the tension. You are never uncomfortable with the anxiety and anger coming through. You feel for the hero and wonder what has caused the tension. It is always hard to predict how a relationship will unfold but it seems Fil Bo Riva has hopes and wanted things to last. Whilst the duo is not separated and past the point of no return; there are signs to suggest things might not ensure too much longer. I guess the heroine has been cheating and leading our hero astray. Even though the song deals with some tough subjects; the music has a more upbeat and energised nature. You get little waves of guitar and drums before the song dips into acoustic territory. The hero wonders whether he will be remembered and respected; he is fighting against anonymity and is struggling to hold. This might sound gloomy and lost but, in many ways, there is beauty and hope to be found. Time Is Your Gun is a multi-part and fantastic song that keeps you guessing and provides endless beauty, soul and potency. You immerse yourself in the music and hold out hope things will work for the best. Although the hero is being overlooked and needs to be heard, I get the feeling things will work out for the best and he will be okay. He has a determination and desire to fight the waves and come out the other side. Time Is Your Gun will resound in many people’s hearts and strike a chord. It is a dramatic and fantastic sound that will get many people excited about the upcoming album and what it possesses. Another fantastic and memorable song from Fil Bo Riva.

PHOTO CREDIT: Juliane Spaete

It is an exciting and adventurous time for the Berlin-based artist. Not only is he putting an album together but he is getting more acclaim and attention. Many people in the U.K. and responding to his music and the demand around the world means a busy touring schedule awaits. The young artist has changed from that lone writer to someone who, although a solo act, has a more collaborative mind. He works with Felix and, if anything, that unity has produced stronger material. Songs like Time Is Your Gun started as scraps of paper and ideas. It is how they transformed from those notes and slight impressions to a fully-fledged song that amazes me. The studio seems like a natural place for Fil Bo Riva. He loves seeing songs come to life and building them step by step. I know there will be a lot of excited people out there ready for the album and what it holds. I feel it will be his most realised and exciting work yet. Fil Bo Riva has some dates in Germany – he is in the U.K. in October – and is taking the music to the people. It is busy and exciting and, in the next few months, he will bring his songs to new audiences. I wonder how far he can go and what success he can accrue. It has been a thrilling and wonderful last couple of years for Fil Bo Riva: the next couple of years will be big and promising. His material, as I say, is getting better and there is a new appetite for solo artists who go against the grain and produce something deeper and more mature. You get romantic and cinematic clashes and something direct; colour and light together with more shadowed and intimate moments. It is a fulsome and nourishing cocktail that is hard to resist. Make sure you listen to Time Is Your Gun and follow the story of Fil Bo Riva. He is a brilliant young talent who is making moves and standing out. Also, when his album arrives, ensure you grab a copy and listen to it the whole way through. We are digesting fewer albums and not as in love with the format as before. With Fil Bo Riva, I feel that tendency and lazy habit…

WILL change.  

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Follow Fil Bo Riva

PHOTO CREDIT: Mario Simic

Official:

http://www.filboriva.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/filboriva

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/filboriva

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/filboriva/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/fil-bo-riva

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3JE0uoggWwwYG6rSSJk0HN

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC72grrB_OA8J4sRnOIkdAWw

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

FEATURE:

 

 

Sisters in Arms

IN THIS PHOTO: Pillow Queens/PHOTO CREDIT: Paul Gerrard 

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

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BEFORE the weekend swings in…

IN THIS PHOTO: Yvonne Hercules

I have been looking at some tremendous releases from great female artists. From Irish wonders to new Pop coming from America – it is a fantastic playlist that summons summery sun and the seductiveness of the night. Make sure you put the music on, turn the volume up loud and enjoy a varied selection of songs. Sourced from the past few months; this is a banquet of brilliant slices that is guaranteed to…

PUT a smile on your face.

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

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Pi Ja Ma – Ponytail

Ojerimé - Greasy

Delaire – Something More

Jocelyn Alice – Still Wondering

Gia Margaret – Smoke

Laura Pieri – I Will Follow You

PHOTO CREDIT: Rachael McAllister

Laura Brehm (ft. Draper) – Follow the Signs

Caroline Kole – What If

Tayla – F.W.U

Nina Luna – Keep Me

Dakota – Hey Mamma

Maisie Peters – Best I’ll Ever Sing

Connie Constance – Yesterday

Meron Addis – Scared of the Dark

PHOTO CREDIT: Hannah Sommer

Yvonne Hercules - Flume

Nina Smith – Run Out

Pillow Queens - Cuckoo

PHOTO CREDIT: Laura Sheeran

Eve Belle – Best Intentions

PHOTO CREDIT: Rich Gilligan

Saint Sister – You Never Call

PHOTO CREDIT: Daniel Alexander Harris

Rosie Carney – Bare

PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew James Wilson

Lala Lala – Destroyer

Sarah Close – You Say

Holander – Smoke

Hannah Trigwell – Everything Will Be Okay

PHOTO CREDIT: SHOT BY PHOX

Orla Gartland – I Go Crazy

FEATURE: Rise Against the Technocrats! The Snobbishness Levied at Techno and House D.J.s

FEATURE:

 

 

Rise Against the Technocrats!

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash 

The Snobbishness Levied at Techno and House D.J.s

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A couple of articles have caught my eye…

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

that has got me thinking deeply about Techno and House music right now. Both articles come from The Guardian; both look at female D.J.s and both, as you’d expect, have been met with a slew of user comments that cast aspersions on their (D.J.s’) worth and validity. I will talk about Nina Kraviz and Helena Hauff in a bit but, right now, a look at how Club music has changed. Articles are flying around concerning how the one-hundredth edition of the famous Now That’s What I Call Music! has hit us - and it is amazing to think a compilation series has lasted so long. I recall my exposure to the series back in the early-1990s and I have dipped in and out until now. My first memories of music go back to the Now series and the best chart artists of the time. I mention this – rather than going off on a tangent! – because the sort of music that stood out on those compilations was not Pop and Rock: House and Techno were the sounds that struck my infantile ear. The sound and flavour of the scene have changed since the 1990s, for sure, but there is still a snobbishness and elitism when it comes to the genres. Maybe 2 Unlimited and Snap! – European Dance/Techno acts that seemed to be everywhere at one point – are not the best examples of the best of the older breed but their music was defined by brightness, energy and, a lot of the time, female-led vocals.

Dance came more to the British fore in the late-1990s when Basement Jaxx emerged: before then; The Prodigy brought darkness, menace and ecstasy to Dance and Trance. We can look back at the development and changes in House and Techno (and Dance) from the late-1980s to the current time. I remember growing up around the likes of The Prodigy, Frankie Knuckles and Larry Heard and realise there have been definite shifts and evolutions. If you label; the music ‘Dance’, ‘House’ or ‘Techno’; there is less of a commercial element to the music – D.J.s and composers have their faithful following but are more underground and less exposed than they should be.

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

One can argue the quality of modern Techno and Dance is pretty so-so – House music has lost its glory and not as influential as it was when I was younger. Maybe this is gender-based but I feel there is too much snooty and aggressive behaviour levied against female D.J.s. I will bring in a couple of features soon but I hear so many of those ‘outside’ of the Techno and Dance scene who are unaware of the skill and talent needed to provide an epic and crowd-uniting set. Carly Wilford, a D.J. and SISTER Collective lead, has deejayed and performed all around the world. She seeks out new talent and has brought heavy bass, after-hours sweat and thrills to crowds in many corners of the globe.

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash 

Wilford, when speaking with Huck back in May, talked about her path into the world of the D.J. and being inspired by trailblazers like Annie Nightingale and Mary Anne Hobbs (a heroine of mine, too). She strives to close the gender gap – there is a fifty-fifty between men and women in terms of population as she points out – and end sexual harassment:

“I believe that we’re living through one of the most pivotal times in our generation’s history,” she says. “It just makes you feel that you haven’t been losing your mind. These things are really happening, and it isn’t okay. Now boundaries are being reasserted.

“I’ve had things happen to me personally that I kept quiet about, that I was probably quite embarrassed about, and that held me back,” she adds. “What’s been incredible over the past few months is that there’s been a real solidarity, with women – and guys – people speaking up and holding each other’s hands”.

Wilford, like her peers, has faced challenges and prejudice – she has a community and following that vibes to her sounds and loves what she puts out. Maybe I am getting a bit off-track but I can imagine she has experienced people doubting her talent and how ‘hard’ it is to do what she does. The criticism and snobbishness are levied against men too but one of the things that annoy me is how people assume being a D.J. of Techno and House (or Dance) is a bit of simple knob-twiddling and putting some faders up/down. A lot of the most innovative and progressive music of all-time has mixed in samples and collided musical worlds to create something mesmeric and divine!

IN THIS PHOTO: Carly Wilford/PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Jamieson for Huck

I have watched videos of Wilford and others perform their sets and it is an endless case of keeping control of the mixing board and making sure the energy is kept up. It is about mood and mixing sounds together that do not go in too hard or play it coy. It is about standing out and creating something unique. I read comments from people that fall into two camps. There are those who have a sexist attitude and concentrate on a woman’s look – I will bring in the Nina Kraviz article in a bit. Another piece, written last year, looked at the way we have a divide and there is a rather vicious attitude from some:

“Plenty of us (including myself) have stuck the knife in a bit too deep, pointing out people’s ‘obvious’ faults from our educated perspective. Correcting someone on the shortcomings of their perceived music intelligence is in itself as wrong as whoever was spewing about Drumcode being the best Techno out there. The blame is equal on both sides and the solution equally so. If we were all a bit more accepting of people who are admittedly new and fresh on the scene, then the underlying hostility would cease to exist. A simple push in the right direction, away from the stereotypical entry-level tracks and artists, into more niche or hard to find artists that people may prefer is so much more beneficial than saying they don’t know what they’re on about.

"Dance music constantly fights against misunderstanding from the uneducated outside world, so why can’t it combat similar miscommunication within its own circles. If the scene is as all-encompassing as it tries to lead people to believe then why doesn’t it have a more open armed policy to the naïve new listener?”

Maybe there is that stuffy and unmoved older generation who remembers the days when Pete Tong was popular and Dance/Techno was a much more varied and widespread affair. There is a naivety that suggests that, while we do not see Dance and House high up the charts all the time and on the radio constantly; the genres have grown hugely and we have stations dedicated to the music. I have mentioned Carly Wilford and how she looks for like-minded talent; EFFI is another incredible D.J. who has played big festivals, student nights and great events. It is great to see boutique festivals, clubs and events open up opportunities for D.J.s – something we did not have years ago. I still feel a split between the newcomers to the new breed who feel they (D.J.s) are not doing much and relying too heavily on technology and older sounds. House and Techno relied on huge innovations and movements back in the day: so many assume we are in an uninspired time where Pop and Rock take bigger prominence in the popular music world.

Back to the Wilford interview - and some cuttings show Dance and Techno has not had the same breakthrough as other genres and movements:

“Dance music hasn’t quite had its ground-shaking Time’s Up moment yet, Wilford says. The Forbes list of the world’s 10 highest paid DJs featured no women yet again last year; there was only one woman for every four male DJs on the worldwide festival circuit in mid-2017, according to a study by the group female:pressure…

“Know that however lonely you feel, you’re never alone,” she says. “Even if the people around you don’t understand you, your tribe is out there”.

You can do the research regarding the best male D.J.s and Techno devotees of the day but a lot of the most engaging and compelling D.J.s right now are women. Helena Hauff spoke with Joe Muggs of The Guardian and talked about her career and new music. Muggs’ assessment of her music shows the complexities and variations present in the clubs right now:

“In the five years since she started releasing tracks, she has become a figurehead for a noisy, neo-gothic imperative in techno, delivering live and DJ sets of sometimes terrifying strobe-lit intensity that triangulate perfectly between acid house energy and industrial harshness. The almost entirely live jams of her new album, Qualm, are the best attempt yet to bottle that lightning; they are likely to push her into clubland’s big league”.

Hauff talked about breaking through at a time when being a D.J. was a rarity for a woman. Underground Techno has always had sexism and limitations: right now, there are some breakthroughs and experimental geniuses (women) who are shaking that up:

“Her success has come alongside several other women breaking through in the former boys’ club of underground techno: she cites Cologne’s Lena Willikens and Siberian superstar Nina Kraviz among her favourite acts. As with most things, her approach to the topic is pragmatic. “It’s important we talk about this, but I’m not on social media, I’m not like [disco/house DJ] the Black Madonna, for example, who’s very active on Twitter and determined to get her message out there,” Hauff says. “But I know other girls say they started DJing after they saw me and that’s really, really cool. Every woman who goes out and does whatever she wants to do, and makes music and DJs and is visible, helps to make a change and make a difference”.

Kate Hutchinson of The Guardian spoke with Nina Kraviz – one of the most popular young D.J.s working in the business right now. Kraviz talked about the energy she projects and how detailed and nuanced her work is:

“When I DJ, I’m fucking alive,” she says. “All my channels are open. People think I’m on drugs, but I’m not – I’m just really experiencing it.” She calls her approach “raw”, but she dislikes how that has become a byword for anyone who plays vintage-sounding house music through software: “Fuck you, man, [your show is] pre-cooked, taken out of the fridge and then burned in the fucking microwave.” By contrast, she never pre-plans her sets, let alone stands still while playing. “I’m putting my physical presence into it. And it’s different from one show to another because I’m a different person every day. I’m the kind of person that goes from highest point to the fucking lowest point in a second”.

A lot of the comments under the article praised Kraviz and paid testimony to her abilities and durability. There were many – I have not named those who made them – who show a typical ignorance and sexism...

“Listening to her and other techno DJ artists made me realize
A) how great musicians and composers Bay City Rollers were;
B) I'm hearing the soundtrack of Huxley's Brave New World;
C) there must be certain pleasures in being a zombie”.

"She still has to deal with sexist comments about her mixing skills…"

“Eugh spare us. What is sexist about this? Plenty of DJs get grief because they're mixing skills are shite, and it's not because they have a vagina. Shite mixing is shite mixing. It's kind of a DJ's job”.

“The fact that she doesn't tell you her real age, just highlights the fact she's got a huge ego and all that prancing and pouting she does behind stage is infact just her absolutely in love with herself”.

“She used to be good until she started all the pouting and flicking her hair behind the decks”.

Although these are comments from readers of The Guardian – either very middle-class or used to a different sound of Techno - this is the sort of attitude and stupidity aimed at D.J.s like Nina Kraviz. The common link between all the male leaders; female pioneers like Kraviz, Wilford and Hauff is their free spirit, lack of conformist attitude and, quite frankly, not giving a sh*t about negativity and those who do not like them! The Kraviz 'argument' looked at sexism and how changes have started to creep in:

“…But sexism was a problem. Back in the mid-00s, the male-dominated dance music scene struggled to get its head around a woman who knew what to do with electronic hardware. In 2012, she released her self-titled debut album, a collection of simmering 808 love songs and gauzy techno-pop. While “some people loved it”, says Kraviz, “people were suspicious of a pretty woman making music on her own, with a vision. They couldn’t handle me. It was like: ‘It cannot be true that you can have lipstick on and make music’”.

IN THIS PHOTO: Nina Kraviz/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images/Press Association

Other big figures in Techno/EDM and Dance include the late, great Aviici. He relied on big and bombastic sounds that often paired with Pop music and artists – designed to get people happy and involved. An article, following his death, looked at the sort of snobbishness he had to endure:

“There is a particular snobbishness towards Avicii’s brand of big, unabashed EDM that relates to the notion that music of value cannot be computer-generated or enormously popular, but the same distaste is generally not applied to Daft Punk, for example, or Taylor Swift. His is the kind of music that is readily dismissed as something you “press a button on a laptop” to make. (Would that such a button existed!)

These songs were never meant to be heard by an individual, through tinny earbuds, in the daytime

Even now, when the divide between high and low culture is being smoothed out and there is said to be no such thing as a guilty pleasure, you may be more likely to “own up” to liking Levels than to declare it proudly (you might just sequester it on your gym playlist). But Avicii’s music was that rare thing in a world where culture has atomised: the soundtrack to moments of pure, collective euphoria”.

The cynicism and upturned noses are not only directed at women: other are hostile towards those who want to add new genres into Electronic music and take it in new directions. The reasons Techno and House got to where it was is down to the very best taking risks and pushing it forward.

The Streets (Mike Skinner) urged, on Original Pirate Material, for us to “push things forward” and stop buying and listening to the same old crap! There are some who do not understand Techno and how it has mutated – this does not invalidate the music and we should hold our tongues when it comes to criticism. I would like to see people get out of the mindset (that) EDM/Techno and House is all about leaning on classic sounds or standing there dumbly and letting technology do all of the talking. Maybe the overall sound and influence of the scene have changed but that does not mean there is an irrelevance and lacking quality. Instead, more clubs and festivals have sprung up; women are fighting against the gender divide and the faithful are promoting the best D.J.s out there. Many live in the past and expect Techno and the like to retain its skin and components. I wonder whether ignorance and arrogance overtake and shouts over all the talent out there. I urge people to research and look at all the fantastic Techno/Dance D.J.s who are lighting up clubs and releasing stunning mixes/tracks. For those who feel being a D.J. is nothing more than shifting a few knobs and looking pretty; they really need to spend some time…

PHOTO CREDIT: Unsplash

IN their world!

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

FEATURE:

 

Sisters in Arms

IN THIS PHOTO: Robinson 

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

__________

EVEN though the weather is starting…

IN THIS PHOTO: Joy Crookes

to turn a little bit; the heat is still pretty intense and there is no sign of summer going anywhere for a little while! I have been looking around the new releases of the past few months and am discovering artists new to my mind – those who deserve a lot more focus and attention. In that spirit; here is a collection of all-female tracks that combines electricity and energy with something more cooled and casual. A fantastic list of songs from artists who will, very soon, go on to much…

IN THIS PHOTO: Melody's Echo Chamber/PHOTO CREDIT: Diane Sagnier

BIGGER things.

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

__________

Robinson – Nothing to Regret

PHOTO CREDIT: Laura Sheeran

Roisin El Cherif – Half a Life

Melody’s Echo Chamber – Cross My Heart

Hey Charlie – Love Machine

PHOTO CREDIT: Anise Mariko

Jackie Cohen – Darlin’

Alex Hepburn – Can’t Stop

PHOTO CREDIT: Adrian Gauci

Dana McKeon – Little Miracle of Mine

Germein – Talking

Candice Gordon – The Kids Are Alt-Right

Laura White (ft. Ms Banks) - Heartbreaker

Joy Crookes – Sinatra

PHOTO CREDIT: @kirangidda

Diamantina – Bandwagon

Gabriella Vixen - Maybe

Asian Doll – Crunch Time

Olivia Louise – No Filters

Mulatto – On Me

Wyen Solo – Dear Diary

That Girl Jared – Don’t Take It Personal

Shenna – Conversation

PHOTO CREDIT: Laura Hermiston

Jeen – Any Moment

Kate Stewart – Loving You

Æ Mak – Love Flush

Jessica Meuse – Thank God It Didn’t Work

Odina – I’ll Carry You

Seaker – Dreaming

INTERVIEW: VC Pines

INTERVIEW:

VC Pines

___________

IT has been interesting speaking with VC Pines…

about his new single, Golden Gai, and its evocative story. I ask the songwriter what it is like writing music with a condition called chromesthesia; if there is going to be more material later this year – Jack (VC Pines) talks about moving from a band, The Carnabys, to life as a solo artist.

I was eager to know whether there are gigs coming up and which upcoming acts VC Pines recommends; the three albums that mean the most to him; how he chills away from music – the songwriter gives some useful advice for artists starting out.

____________

Hi, VC Pines. How are you? How has your week been?

Not bad, thanks. Recovering from Lovebox last night - Childish Gambino was unreal.

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

It's like an Alternative-Soul vibe; contemporary-sounding beats and sounds with classic brass and voodoo organ sounds. Soulful vocals, too.

Golden Gai is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

Haha. It's a memory from being on tour in Tokyo. Me and the bassist were walking through Kabukichō after drinking in the Golden Gai; we kind of got ushered into this lift that was on the street and just went with it. When we got out, we were suddenly in this run-down, after-hours massage parlour with all the lights off. These people were screaming at us and tried to take our money etc. But, yeah, we managed to slip around and sprint down the stairs and out of the weird parlour, wallets intact - and lived to write a song about it.

Will there be further material this year, do you think? How far are you looking ahead?

Yeah, for sure, I'm writing all the time; constantly working on new material and finishing off older stuff. New stuff in the wings, for sure.

Jack. As a former member of The Carnabys; was it hard adapting, in terms of formation and style, to working on what you do now?

If I were to tell myself I'd be working like this a couple of years ago it'd be hard to get my head around, but it's all just fallen into place quite bizarrely and it's how I love to work. I can try things out, bin it or keep it; go with styles that are a bit more out-there and they grow on me every day.

You have a condition called chromesthesia. How does it affect the way you write and perceive music? Does it make creating music more difficult than otherwise?

If anything, it makes it easier. I have a clear vision of the song before it's even written and use colour to help to keep things that fit together like a puzzle - especially in the studio when colour coding gets used. It really helps to see it all in front of you rather than have things laid out in my head. It makes things quick and easy: like having two computers on the go, except only one has a screen.

Given the name, ‘VC’ (Violet Coloured) Pines; is there significance behind the moniker? How do they relate to your chromesthesia?

Some of my favourite music I've written is violet/purple in my head. The name helps keep things going in a certain direction for me. ‘Pines’ comes from my temporal lobe epilepsy, of which I think my synaesthesia/chromesthesia is a symptom.

I was taken to Wolfboro, in North America, when I was a child. I hardly remember any of it but, sometimes, if I'm having an episode I get these memories in my head I didn't think were there - and they're of these massive pine trees and the snow around them.

Did you grow up around a lot of music? Which artists inspired you when you were young?

I got into music through my dad's C.D.s. He had all these Punk C.D.s; so, I instantly loved people like The Stranglers, Ian Dury; Wire, The Clash and The Damned etc. He's also a big Motown fan and, through that, I found Soul music which really captured me. We used to sing Across 110th Street  (Bobby Womack) at each other in the car.

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

I haven't really thought of that! Haha. Maybe I should start. I've just been taking each day as it comes - each song, as they arrive in my head, and going with it all.

Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

1st August at The Social - be there!

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

I've loved every second of being in music, from touring globally; the European tours and the tours up and down the U.K. It's fuc*ing fun and that's why I do it. Looking forward to getting back on the road with VC Pines. Tours are full of laughs, but one particular memory I have is when we played a house party in Brighton and we were so close to falling through the floor.

Everyone was jumping but there was this one guy that wasn't - though his head was bobbing up and down by a foot or so, which meant the floor was bending. The moment I said “stop jumping” he went nuts and starting stamping everywhere.

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

That's such a hard question…there are so, so many. There are some I fall in and out love with and others that I never forget about. They're all so different! I'm gonna say:

Sound & Color - Alabama Shakes

Me and my girlfriend listened to it start to finish the other day in the car and it reminded me of being on tour when it first came out. It's an album full of memories for me.

Grace - Jeff Buckley

One of the most incredible albums ever written. He was a true, true genius.

Remain in Light - Talking Heads

It reminds me of my dad from the first to last second. It's literally an album full of his sense of humour and emotions. David Byrne is also a hero.

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

Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds. Not only are his songs written with his dark brilliance but his live arrangements are even better. He has so much energy on stage - and so do the Bad Seeds. To have a career like his would be a dream.

My riders are pretty easy: beer, rum; towels, water…depends on what's happening after the show.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make the music that you would play if someone asked you to describe yourself. Hold nothing back on stage and don't listen to assholes. Oh…and anyone that mentions percentages within the first five minutes can fu*k off, too: let things grow.

IN THIS PHOTO: Joel Culpepper

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Joel Culpepper, Daniel Blumberg and Ezra Collective.

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

I don't really. The only thing I do to chill is not listening to it (music). When I'm not writing, I'm at work at my mate's shop. So, I end up playing my favourite music all day. Love 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).

Sick. Let's go with the last song I listened to: Chicago - Tom Waits

________________

Follow VC Pines

Official:

https://www.vcpines.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/vcpines

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/vcpines

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/vcpines

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/vcpines/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1g2op8Ft_vfUtUsowkw5vg

INTERVIEW: Super Paradise

INTERVIEW:

Super Paradise

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WITH their new single, Sweat, ready to go…

I have been speaking with Super Paradise about it and whether there might be more material arriving down the tracks. The band discusses the reason behind moving from Milan to London – they reveal what they hope to achieve before the end of this year.

I ask where we can see them play and the new artists we should watch out for; how their latest single differs from their earliest material; the importance of being on stage and performing to the crowds – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Yeah. This week’s been good. Kind of busy. Getting things ready to release the single and get to Paris.

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

We are Super Paradise - we originated in Milan and are now based in London. We generally think of the music as ‘Dream-Garage’.

Can you tell me about your new track, Sweat? How did it come together? What is the story behind it?

It’s about this whole year in London; since we started playing together.

How do you think it differs from your earliest work? Do you find yourself adding new stuff with each track?

It takes a more frenetic direction. It’s our fastest song yet; it’s more raucous than the earlier stuff.

Is there more material coming? Are you working on an E.P. or album?

Yeah. We are recording an E.P. in September which should be out by the end of the year, hopefully.

You started life in Milan but are based in the U.K. What was the reason behind the move? Do you get the chance to go back to Milan?

The music scene in London is fresh and dynamic. Lots of venues. Lots of interesting bands. It’s perfect for us.

We hope to play in Milan soon; by the end of the year.

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

More gigs around the U.K. We want to play some shows up North, for sure - and also to release a new E.P.

How important is it being on stage and delivering your music? Is that the best part of making music?

Yeah. We really enjoy playing live. It’s often the best way to reach new audiences - and we seem to go down well.

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

Thee Oh Sees, Fat White Family; The Gories and My Bloody Valentine.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We would be talking to ourselves…

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

We’re playing in Paris this Friday at Super Sonic then we have our single launch party on Tuesday, 24th July at The Waiting Room in London. Then, we have a headline show at The Old Blue Last on 30th July.

IN THIS PHOTO: Coby Sey

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Coby Sey, Brother May and Micachu.

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

Books and films.

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).

Tom Waits - Going Out West

Parquet Courts - Total Football

The Gun Club - Mother of Earth

Thee Oh Sees - I Was Denied

Tommy James & the Shondells - I’m Alive

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Follow Super Paradise

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/sssuperparadise

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/superparadise

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3qNDwP7YWTLSp5eXe675Kg

Bandcamp:

https://superparadise.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Firemelon

INTERVIEW:

Firemelon

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MY questions to Firemelon…

were sent out before their album, King Leisure, arrived - so it seems like a perfect opportunity for people to hear their latest work. I have been talking with the American band about the single, Before Goodbye; they discuss King Leisure and what inspired it – I was eager to know how they all came together and what the music scene is like where they.

The guys each choose a song to end the interview with; I learn whether the guys have collective and common tastes and what their touring plans are – they tell me whether they are coming to the U.K. and playing here anytime soon.

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

Well, hi! Our week’s been great so far. We’ve been spending time writing and working on fresh material - which is always a blast. The best way to spend a week in my opinion.

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

Sure. The short answer is: Firemelon is a little ol' Rock ‘n’ Roll band out of Southern California. People tell us what we play is called ‘Americana’.  I don’t know. From our perspective; it’s music that grew out of all the things we love listening to. There’s old-school Country in there, mashed up against Rock ‘n’ Roll; twangy guitars and grungy guitars; pedal steel and a lot of drums. It’s Country and Rock and heavy all at the same time.

I’m Matthew Samia - I’m the singer and guitarist and I’ve been writing most of the tunes. We also have Matt Bailey on guitars, who has also, lately, been stepping up and contributing tunes. Jeff ‘Packy’ Cassens is on drums; Chris ‘Harv’ Harvey is on pedal steel and Ron V. Larson is on electric bass. 

I guess that’s not actually such a short answer...

Can I ask how your name, ‘Firemelon’, came to be?! Is there a story behind it?

There is, kind of... 

I had a band in college that needed a name.  We decided the best way to choose a name would be to get really plastered, write random words on slips of paper and, literally, pull them out of a hat and combine them in random ways…seems totally obvious that this is the best way to choose a name (sarcasm). But, that’s what we did. There were a few other contenders that came out of the hat – ‘SunTooth’, ‘CowPaste’; ‘BrainFrog…but, somehow, ‘FireMelon’ won out. 

We found out, later, that there’s a thing called a firemelon in a video game – but, by then, it was too late to change. We had decided to forever be known as ‘FireMelon’.  Or ‘The Melon’ for short.

Before Goodbye is your debut single. How did the song come together? Does it hold personal significance?

Before Goodbye is a song about the breakup of a relationship and the melancholy musings that come with it. It’s not really about any one particular relationship or breakup, but rather the feeling everyone has experienced when things fall apart. It came together pretty fast. Sometimes, things pop in my head as I’m driving or noodling on the guitar or whatever. This one was a driving song.

The opening guitar riff and first few lines sort of appeared in my skull as I was cruising down Pan Coast Highway. I brought the skeleton of the tune to rehearsal that night and it just sort of formed itself…it’s nice when a plan comes together.

Do you have any more material planned for later in the year?

Yes! The album that Before Goodbye is off of, King Leisure, is set to drop in a few weeks. We’re pretty excited about that. As I mentioned earlier; we’ve been writing and working up new material for the past few months - that we plan to record in the fall for the follow-up to King Leisure.

How did you all find one another? Did you all live in Orange County at the time?

We’re all from Huntington Beach, in Southern California (in Orange County). We met in high-school and have all played together in various bands at different times in the past. Firemelon is the first band we’ve all played in all together, though. It’s been great to have guys who are all on the same page, musically, and are also great friends. Except the drummer. We don’t care for him much.

Your music has a lot of honesty and emotion working away. Is that a result of your collective experience and musical tastes?

Thank you. I think it grows out of our collective musical tastes, for sure –also, having created music for quite a while; which I think tends to lead you down the path of least bullsh*it. As a songwriter, the people whose songs and performances I most connect with are the ones who take the simple, heartfelt approach. Like Lucinda Williams. She’s all about simple arrangements, heartfelt lyrics and powerful delivery. So good…  

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

We’re getting our summer tour dates together at the moment. Currently, we have a show upcoming at The Mint in Los Angeles with Mike Campbell of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers on July 11; a show at The Coachhouse in Southern California on July 20 and we’ll be at our favorite local music dive, The Karman Bar in Orange County, on July 28th.  We’ll be fleshing out the rest of the summer and into the fall A.S.A.P.!

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

We would love to!  Can we stay at your place?

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Complete World Domination! As a starting point... 

But, actually, we’re looking forward to the release of King Leisure and getting the next album recorded.  Also; we’re looking to reach listeners in the U.K., and would, in fact, like to get a U.K. tour together.

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

So many I don’t know. In recent memory; we did a great show with Mike Campbell at the Coachhouse last year - that one definitely stands out. Mike is a great guy and one of my personal musical heroes, so it was a kick playing with his new band, The Dirty Knobs. The Coach House is a great mid-sized venue: not too big, and not too small, so the sold-out crowd was close-by to pump us up with their energy. A memorable show all-around!

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

Father John Misty. He just did a great show at the Hollywood Bowl supported by Gillan Welch and David Rawlings, who I love. But, I’d kick them off the bill in a second and take that slot! 

The rider is always ‘no brown M&M’s’. It goes without saying...

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write your own music. Play it. Keep playing it.  

IN THIS IMAGE: A lighter promoting Father John Misty's latest album, God's Favourite Customer

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been digging Father John Misty lately and Kevin Morby. The War on Drugs, too. 

IN THIS PHOTO: The War on Drugs

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

Well. I tend to unwind by sitting around playing guitar and noodling on new songs - or singing old ones. So, I guess it’s not really time away from music. But, it’s what I always gravitate toward if I have a free minute. I always have. 

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).

Thanks!  

Harv: I’ve Got a Tiger By the Tail by Buck Owens

Matt Bailey: Black Grease by The Black Angels

Packy: If It’s the Beaches by The Avett Brothers

Ron: Unsuffer Me by Lucinda Williams

_____________

Follow Firemelon

Official:

https://www.firemelonmusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/firemelon/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/FiremelonMusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/firemelonmusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/user-632333601

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCg7QMmmMRFh61eGPl5ZJCZg

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4kXsaqm6HG9xw0Ec4z2lz6

INTERVIEW: Lauren Housley

INTERVIEW:

Lauren Housley

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THE amazing Lauren Housley…

has been chatting with me about her current track, My Sleeping Heart, and its unique story; whether she has learned any lessons since her debut days; what we can expect from her forthcoming E.P. – Housley discusses favourite albums and music that inspires her.

In addition to recommending an upcoming artist; the songwriter reveals why she took a slight break from music; if she gets time to unwind away from music; where we can catch her perform this month – Housley shares a precious memory from her time in music.

____________

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

Hi! I'm good, thanks - hope you are too. It's been a great week, thanks. Just got back from touring. It's been a lot of fun!

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

My name is Lauren Housley…I've been a massive music lover my entire life and started writing songs before I even knew that's what they were. I'm inspired by timeless songs. I'm a northern girl who loves so many different styles of music: Soul, Blues; Americana and Country music seems to have influenced my music quite a bit. I write and perform a lot with my long-time collaborator, Thomas Dibb.

Can you tell me how My Sleeping Heart came to be? What inspired the song?

I was in Nashville in September and got chatting with a guy at the bar who was remembering a lost love. He was finally coming to terms with someone he had let go because he was afraid of commitment. The experienced had impacted his life and he had never forgotten that person. When I got back to the room that night, I picked up the guitar and wrote My Sleeping Heart.

It is a confident and impassioned song. Do you feel yourself growing stronger with every release?

Thank you, and, absolutely! I'm becoming more and more comfortable with my own way of writing and growth as an artist. With every song and release, I'm learning to trust myself more and gaining confidence to follow my instincts.

Have you learned anything about yourself since your debut, do you think?

Yes. Many things. I've learnt that we never stop learning!

Also, to accept and be ok with that. If you don't know something now, it doesn't mean you never will. I picked up the guitar as a tool for my songwriting only a few years ago - after most of the songs from my first album were written and have since started playing on the live shows. There was a time when I thought I'd never get to that point.

I believe there is an E.P. out later in the year. Are there connecting themes and stories that go into the music?

Yeah. There are lyrics that describe situations that directly happened to me. I'm a dreamer and always will be...I think I'm searching for peace, truth; beauty and understanding in a lot of things in life so these themes seem to pop up a lot.  

You took a brief break from music. What was the reason behind that?

I wanted to focus on writing and spend more time in the studio: it's important to reassess what you'd like to explore through the music.

Who would you rank as your main songwriting idols and heroes?

Carole King and Gerry Goffin; Bob Dylan, Paul Simon; Ryan Adams, Prince; Van Morrison, Joni Mitchell; Stevie Wonder, Stevie Nicks; John Martyn, Lauryn Hill and Bob Marley.

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

I'll be playing a set at The Ned in London on 30th July. It's FREE entry. Would be great to see you there. 

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

I'd like to have a new album recorded. I have a lot of songs ready to take into the studio now. I've got quite a few collaborations I'm pursuing too. 

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

I was asked to perform at an event in my hometown of Rotherham where primary school children come together to perform. I played a track of mine called, All You Need is a Friend, and all the kids joined in with the outro. It was very sweet and humbling to hear them all singing the lyrics together as one.

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

Joni Mitchell - Blue

Fleetwood Mac - Rumours

Lauryn Hill – The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Have fun, explore; try new things, go outside of your comfort zone. Create and share your work and try not to put too much pressure on yourself.

IN THIS PHOTO: Robbie Cavanagh

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Robbie Cavanagh is a very talented guy. He's played a few support slots for me recently and he's a brilliant songwriter, singer and performer. Definitely go and see him live if you get the chance. 

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

I try to as much as possible. I like going for long walks and listening to interesting podcasts. I have just got back into drawing and painting, too, which I can get lost in for hours. I find intense exercise quite relaxing too...strangely.

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).

Am I Safe by Ryan Adams, please. I've got it stuck in my head right now and I love that song!

________________

Follow Lauren Housley

Official:

https://laurenhousley.co.uk/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/laurenhousley

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/laurenhousleymusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/laurenhousley/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/1GLRGBLmRIc3p0mVq4F0J3

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/laurenhousley

INTERVIEW: The Blood Choir

INTERVIEW:

The Blood Choir

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I have enjoyed speaking with The Blood Choir…

about their track, Drake, and the new album, Houses of the Sun, and why they have not released new music in six years. Robin and Joe talk about their development and what they hope to achieve through the rest of the year – I ask whether we can see The Blood Choir on tour at all.

The guys explain the importance of getting back on the stage and how they got together in the first place; if they have favourite memories from their time in music – they choose a rising act we should seek out and explore.

____________

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

We’re good, thanks.

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

There are two of us. Robin sings, plays guitar and keyboard; Joe plays guitar and various other instruments. We’re from Bath, originally, but we’re now based between the U.K. and Denmark. We’ve released two albums so far: No Windows to the Old World in 2012 and Houses of the Sun which came out this June.  

How did The Blood Choir get together? When did you meet? 

We’ve been friends since we were teenagers. We spent most of our early twenties playing in different bands before we got together as The Blood Choir in 2009.

Drake is your new single. It is from the album, Houses of the Sun. What sort of themes and ideas influenced the music? 

Entropy, love; illness, time; death, light; depression, water; paranoia and space. 

The record is your first in six years. How come there was such a gap between releases?!

There were many reasons. We left our record label, fell out with our manager; the touring line-up of the band imploded and then Rob had to move to Denmark. We also had a lot of other personal things going on. 

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

Hopefully, get some funding to make another record. It’s already written, so it’s just a question of getting in the studio and recording it. Our plan is to try and get it recorded early next year and get it out soon after that. We also have an E.P. called Dartmoor (which pre-dates our first album No Windows to the Old World) that we’re planning to release in the autumn. 

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

Robin: Probably finishing Houses of the Sun. 

Joe: I’d say the same thing - it was a great moment when we got it over the line. 

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

Robin: Kate Bush, maybe. I saw her last show at the Hammersmith Apollo which was pretty mind-blowing.

Rider-wise; I have no idea... 

Joe: Not sure; that’s a tough one. Most of the good ones are dead. If I was pushed, I’d probably say Neil Young.   

Do you feel like the music has changed a lot since 2012? How has The Blood Choir evolved? 

We’ve just continued writing songs. We haven’t stopped really since finishing the first album, so we now have a lot of material in the bank. Most of the songs we’re working on at the moment are for album no.-four. It’s difficult for us to say how the music has evolved: it’s just been a natural progression. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We’re not sure we’re in any position to be giving advice to anyone…

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

We’re doing another U.K. tour this November, the details of which are still being finalised. We’re also hoping to do some shows in Denmark next spring.

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

Yeah, it is important. The tour we did this May was the first time we had played live together for over five years. Being locked away working on new material for that long can end up making you feel a bit cut off from your audience. It was good to get out there and start connecting with people again.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There’s a Danish band called Kogekunst that are worth a listen. 

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

Not much: we’re always working. 

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). 

Robin: Richard Dawson – Soldier

Joe: Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Distant Sky

________________

Follow The Blood Choir

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thebloodchoir

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thebloodchoir

Bandcamp:

https://thebloodchoir.bandcamp.com/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6uNVFSP0isXiupVZWyC3YN

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCB3EJDWMrQNlUDsfIJ_PTIA

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/thebloodchoir

INTERVIEW: Jake Morley

INTERVIEW:

Jake Morley

___________

THE terrific Jake Morley…

has been talking with me about his new release – an acoustic, stripped-back version of the track, Ghostess (originally released in 2015). I ask about his plan to release an acoustic track each month and what Ghostess’ story is – Morley chats about his Spotify playlist, Tell It to Me Straight, and a couple of upcoming artists we should throw our weight behind.

I ask Morley which artists he grew up around and was inspired by; how his touring diary is looking at the moment; what advice he would give to artists entering the scene right now – he reveals what he wants to achieve before the end of the year.

____________

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

You know those T.V. characters who walk around with Dictaphones and starting all their sentences with: “Note to self….”? Well, that’s pretty much me right now. I’m heading into the studio next week to record another batch of tracks, so it’s a regular stream of lyric tweaks and maybe-we-should-move-that-chord-somewhere-else. Basically, if you see me mumbling quietly into my phone whilst on the Tube, do not be alarmed...

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

The challenge I’ve set myself is to produce songs for acoustic guitar and voice that are interesting, and stay interesting many listens later, with lyrics that you don’t regret giving your attention to and production that isn’t trying to con you.

I’m a white, heterosexual; bearded, male singer-songwriter… so, not exactly a rare unicorn. There are millions of us! Too many, maybe. But, I don’t feel like a stereotype: I feel like I’m finding something quite specific. Not just another bloke singing sensitively about his love life.

A stripped, acoustic version of Ghostess is your latest single. What is the story behind that song?

Ok. So, this one is actually a heartbreak song and, thus, may be undermining my point above a little. But, it’s absolutely authentic. The album version got a few million streams, so we wanted to include it for this acoustic series.

A few years back, after a break-up, I was desolate and surrounded by little remnants of the relationship - hairs on clothes, toothbrushes that still seem to kiss (all that). It’s funny how often the best songs are the ones you feel you have the least control over, can take the least credit for. This one flew out pretty quickly, helped along by Lady Gaga suggesting the title to me during an imagined conversation in my living room.

You are releasing a new acoustic song each month. Why did you decide to do that? Has it been fun reworking your songs?

In the past, I would spend ages building up an album of songs. Slowly, they’d get recorded with big, detailed arrangements and then, eventually, they’d get released. By the time I’m actually touring them, they’re already years old, grown up and off to university. It just feels like there’s a better way, now: write, record and release; craft the song, record it without over-producing; share it, move on. Keep it fresh.

I’m loving that right now.

The playlist, Tell It to Me Straight, seems to be a source of inspiration. What sort of artists are on that playlist? Does it give you drive and ideas?

Often, the songs I come back to, again and again, talk to me like a friend with clear words; no bulls*it, no razzle-dazzle - just straight in there with an authentic expression they feel is important. It’s not about what genre it is: it’s an attitude thing. Treating your audience like an equal rather than a mark. Maybe a little hard to describe but I know it when I hear it.

The playlist came first, but it’s very much an ethos for me right now - in the songs I want to write and the way they’re recorded and toured.

Which artists inspired you to get into music? When did you start writing your own music?

My dad tried to get me into Miles Davis and Steely Dan. My brothers tried to get me into Nirvana and Rage Against the Machine. I started around eight or nine, piano first; then drums, then guitar around thirteen. At fifteen, I’d be getting drunk with my friends playing Oasis songs and thinking: ‘Ooh; this is a bit fun’.

Writing songs seemed like an obvious extension to learning instruments.

If you had to select three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be and why?

Stop Making Sense – Talking Heads (live album)

Because it’s absolutely dazzling in its ambition and emotion.

Rage Against the Machine - Live at the Grand Olympic Auditorium

Because, sometimes, I’m angry and fearful.

Freddie Stevenson - 50 Songs

Because I love them dearly - and a fifty-song album would be a good way to cheat and get more (songs).

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

Most days, I measure achievement in a personal way by how well I’m writing and playing. Other days, I measure achievement by how many ‘likes’ I get on Twitter and how much more successful my peers are. Hopefully, by the end of 2018, I’ll have done more of the former and less of the latter.

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

Standing side-of-stage to watch Willie Nelson after a support slot is up there. But, I’m pretty ruthless with memories: once it’s done it’s done. There’s no satisfaction quite like a great song coming together, or a great gig after the last notes are played…

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

Never been that fussed about riders.

As for the support slot…hmmm, well. It’s mainly about playing in a great room with great sound to people who are feeling the music. That’s kind of more important than who the headliner is. Hammersmith Apollo was my favourite ever venue to play. I’d maybe pick someone like Bon Iver - if he was in an acoustic phase.

How important is it being on stage and connecting with the crowd?

Essential. Sometimes, I find myself feeling grumpy as hell then realising I haven’t played any gigs for a while. Then, I play a show and I’m all better again. I have a nineteen-date U.K. tour later this year and plenty of festivals – so, I think I’m covered for now.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Nothing will help you get better like practice so, whatever music you make, make it often; play it hard, give it everything. With that comes confidence in yourself and, with confidence, you can sometimes do far more than you previously realised.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Bryde

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I run a weekly club for musicians to co-work together in London. We meet up with laptops, get work done and bounce ideas off each other. In fact, I’m here right now. It’s also a great chance to find new music. Check out these two amazing artists who are here this week: Bryde and Roxanne de Bastion.

IN THIS PHOTO: Roxanne de Bastion

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

That, my friend, will just have to be a mystery to you – mainly, as chilling away from music seems so hilariously foreign right now.

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).

A Case of You by Joni Mitchell – if even one person discovers it today that’d be worth it

________________

Follow Jake Morley

Official:

http://www.jakemorley.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/jakemorley

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jakemorleymusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jakemorley/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/5EfWj07dkgVpJ6Y5ATHxIm

YouTube:

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

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jakemorley

INTERVIEW: Belau

INTERVIEW:

Belau

___________

I have been speaking with Krisztián of Belau…

about the duo’s new song, Breath, and working with Sophie Lindinger on it. I discover how Belau got together and whether there is much of a music scene where they are in Budapest; which new act we should watch out for – Krisztián tells me whether more material will arrive down the line.

I wanted to know whether Belau have touring plans and how likely they are to visit the U.K.; what they/Krisztián hope to achieve before the end of this year; the artists that are most influential to Belau right now – Krisztián ends the interview by selecting a classic song.

____________

How are you? How has your week been?

Krisztián Buzás: Thank you for having us on your site - all fine. The summer in Budapest is lovely and we are on tour as always. We’re reaching out for some major festival here in Hungary and we are also touring around in countries like Croatia or Montenegro - unique sights and excellent adventures.

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

Belau is a Budapest-based Chillwave duo, stepping into the third summer of the band existence. We had the pleasure to tour in more than twenty countries. As a live act, we work now as a four-piece band and try to reach out for as many people as we possibly can. We have released several music videos, made an award-winning debut album and, right now, we are working on our second full-length.

Breath is your new song. What is the inspiration behind it?

The song is a picture painted by our inner-self; a journey to the inside where we are able to see the truth between the never-ending struggles to finally find peace. The music video tries to underline this with the woman who is escaping the reality - and then she finally slips into the coveted state where we are all heading to.

What was it like working with Sophie Lindinger on the song?

Sophie is a unique talent with an extraordinary voice. The fact that she accepted to feature on our new album is our honour. LEYYA, the band she sings for, is a great Austrian act. The work came together very instantly - although, we did not meet during the recording session. We had to wait to finally meet personally at SXSW in Austin, TX where both of us played. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Belau with  Sophie Lindinger 

Is there going to be more material coming down the line?

Definitely. In the background, we are constructing the new album which is taking shape slowly. The release is scheduled for early-2019 but, if you are following us, you will notice that Breath and Redefine are already out and shows the new direction for Belau 3.0.

How did you get together? When did Belau start life?

Belau’s first live show was in 2016. Peter and I have been friends since we were ten and he had the idea to start a Chillwave band. Originally, he started it alone because I was very busy at that time of my life - so, I joined later on during the first live show. The success of Island of Promise pushed us and provided a great start and, since then, we have achieved a lot of things what we are proud of.

You are based in Budapest. Is there an active scene over there?

The music scene in very diverse in Budapest - but we have a sub-scene for all the genres. The sad fact is that, however, we have some amazing artists who are unique, up-to-date and exciting, yet the first great international breakthrough is still to come. That’s what we are working forwards.

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

For me, it’s way different than it should be because I mostly listen to totally different music (than Belau). But, we can say that the most influential artists to us nowadays are Odesza and Ibeyi. What I listen to the most is something uplifting and wonderful; progressive miracles like The Contortionist or some regardless and hellraising old-school stuff like Blood Incantation.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Touring is the main goal while, in the background, we are working on the second full-length - which will be out in early-2019. What I want to achieve is to bring Belau to the next level.

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

Beth Gibbons of Portishead. If not alive, then Chester from Linkin Park.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I consider us to be a new artist - but, I would say hard work always pays off. Work for it!

Might we see you tour very soon? Do you think you’ll come to the U.K.?

We had two U.K. shows so far in London but we are planning a small tour for you guys. As far as I see now we will go to Croatia, Montenegro; Germany, Sweden and Denmark in the next months…but the numbers are always increasing.

IN THIS PHOTO: Orient Fall

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Go check out my Metal band, Orient Fall.

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

Sleeping or organizing my vinyl collection.

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).

Obviously, in these cases, I put something here that totally does not fit the subject. Poison’s hit, Every Rose Has Its Thorn, is an example. I heard yesterday in a Rob Schneider movie.

________________

Follow Belau

Official:

http://belaumusic.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/belaumusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/belaumusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/belau_music/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/belaumusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCddon82aRVw_mHv3CNN4eLA

Bandcamp:

https://belau.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Germein

INTERVIEW:

Germein

___________

THEY are in the midst of supporting Little Mix…

here in the U.K., so it is a busy and exciting time for Germein. The Australian sisters discuss playing with Little Mix and being in Britain; self-producing their latest track, Talking, and what its story is – the group tell me about their influences and what the music scene is like where they live in Adelaide.

I ask them which artists and albums mean a lot to them; if they get time away from music to unwind and chill; what advice they would provide to artists coming through at the moment – Germein highlight a new act to look out for and choose a few songs to end the interview with.

____________

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

G’day! We are fantastic, thank you! Our week has been crazy-amazing. We are in the middle of a U.K. stadium tour with Little Mix and having the best time.

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

We’re a sibling Indie-Rock pop band from Australia. Georgia plays guitar & keys, Ella plays bass & electric cello and Clara plays drums.

You are all sisters. When did you decide to make music together? Did you share music tastes growing up?

Clara Germein: We started out jamming together on our family farm in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia - putting on little shows for our grandparents and family friends when they’d come to visit. Playing music was always something fun we loved to do together. The first C.D.s we ever got were Celine Dion (Georgia), Shania Twain (Ella) and Kate Cebrano (Clara) - which we listened to on-repeat!

Georgia Germein: Our dad played the trumpet in a New Orleans Rhythm and Blues-style band and introduced us to artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong; Van Morrison, and Cat Stevens. We grew up going to his shows, which was always very load, energetic and lots of fun. Mum played Classical and Folk music around the house and we were encouraged to have fun and be creative with our music. We sang Ella Fitzgerald’s A Tisket, A Tasket for our first public performance, I think, when I was about six-years-old!

Ella Germein: We didn't watch much TV growing up but, when we did, it was usually Disney movies which, of course, are known for their amazing soundtracks. I think these definitely sparked our interest in the power of music and emotion.

Talking is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

Georgia: Talking takes on a bit of a darker theme with edgy guitar hits, pumping drums and bass - and a soaring break-out chorus showcasing our three-part harmonies. Talking, we hope, can relate to people facing all different types of challenges. Whether it be feeling like you can't express yourself through communication in a break-up, losing a loved one; fighting with a friend or even not feeling like you have the right to talk – which, unfortunately, is true for many people in this world.

Ella: There’s a line in the song, “This silence is killing us”, which, basically, talks about bottling up the fear, anger and frustration to the point of it feeling like its destroying you. There is a cool build-up in this part of the song which sort of reflects that building up and exploding feeling; like that feeling when you stand on the edge of a cliff and just scream out, releasing all the emotions, and after you feel ten times better.

Is it true this is the first single you produced yourself? Did you feel the need to have more control and say?

Georgia: Yeah. We decided we wanted to start making music on our own terms and so I tried recording and producing Talking myself in our home studio in the Adelaide Hills, South Australia. I’ve always been recording demos and messing with recording gear over the years, so it’s been quite empowering to finally get to the point where I can do it myself. We wanted Talking to sound like ‘us’ and I think we were best able to capture this by producing it ourselves.

Talking was pre-produced by Stuart Gray and mixed by John Castle. When we hit ‘play’ on it, we knew it was the musical vision we’ve had for ourselves finally coming to life.

Looking ahead; might there be an E.P. or album coming along?

Yeah. We’ve got a bunch more songs coming out soon, so stay tuned!

Being based out of Adelaide; what is the music scene like there? How does it compare to other parts of Australia?

Adelaide’s music scene was our first taste of life in the industry, sparking our huge love for live music and performing. There are lots of great festivals in Adelaide, such as the Adelaide Fringe, which has been named the biggest arts festival in the Southern Hemisphere. There’s also WOMADelaide and Oz Asia, attracting thousands of people to the city to experience the wide variety of music from many different cultures. The Porch Sessions are well-known for transforming backyards into an intimate musical oasis - as well as A Day on the Green, Handpicked and Botanic Park for larger outdoor festivals in picturesque locations such as renowned Adelaide Hills Wineries and Adelaide’s beautiful Botanical Gardens.

You will always find live music in the city anywhere; from the bustling Adelaide Central Markets to the busy streets of Rundle Mall and even as you go to collect your bags at Adelaide Airport there’ll be local muso welcoming you with their tunes. Adelaide was also recently named as a UNESCO City of Music (one of thirty-one cities in the world), which is awarded to cities that have demonstrated excellence in music heritage, music-making; education, community involvement and regular high-profile international music events. Other great Aussie cities for music include Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

What might one find if they searched your music collections? Do you all have quite a wide range of heroes and heroines?

Ella: We love bands with a strong harmony feel like Fleetwood Mac and Queen; the edginess of Florence and the Machine and The Wombats; plus, the fun energy of iconic female artists from over the years like the Spice Girls, Beyoncé and, of course, Little Mix.

If we could only listen to one album ever again, here’s what each of us would choose at the moment: 

Georgia: John Mayer - Where the Light Is: John Mayer Live in Los Angeles

I just love everything about a live album - and John Mayer’s songs and musicianship are just incredible.

Ella: Kasey Musgraves - Golden Hour

I'm obsessed with this new album of hers. I don't know what it is but it’s just so beautiful the way it's been written and musically created. I just love it.

Clara: The McClymonts – Endless

We do a lot of driving on tour and it’s great driving music. The songs are catchy and feel-good too.

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

Georgia: Arriving at the point of being able to record our own songs ourselves in our home studio. I love the process of recording a new song in the studio and to be able to create something new, add layers and give it personality and heart in my own time is so rewarding. It just makes me even more excited to be able to share these new songs with the rest of the world.

Ella: Playing for the orphans and sick children at the Agent Orange Rehabilitation Centre in Vietnam. It was such a heart-warming experience.

Clara: I just love touring in general. Being able to travel the world and play our own music is such an amazing feeling.

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

Georgia: U2

Ella: Taylor Swift

Clara: 5SOS

Rider: some puppies to play with.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Have a love of music at the heart of everything you do; create opportunities for yourself to get experience in the industry; don’t be afraid to ask questions - and be yourself.

I believe you are playing dates in the U.K. Which venue/date are you most looking forward to?

We are genuinely excited about every venue we are playing at in the U.K.! This is our first time playing in stadiums, so it’s quite surreal!

You are supporting Little Mix. Have you met them before? Are you excited about playing with them?!

Ella: We had the best time opening for a couple of Little Mix shows last year, so it’s incredible to be invited to back to play fifteen arena shows on their Summer Hits Tour in 2018! They are such a talented and down-to-earth group of girls who are smashing it in the music world at the moment, so we are stoked to be touring with them this July.

IN THIS PHOTO: Rak-Su

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Rak-Su is a great group of fellas who are also touring with Little Mix, so we recommend you check them out!

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

We mostly unwind by going for a walk or a run, listening to music or watching a movie. Georgia unwinds by playing music or reading; Ella likes to paint and Clara likes taking our dogs for a walk. In Australia, we all like going to the beach and, if there’s time, going surfing.

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

Georgia: Lose My Mind by Dean Lewis

Ella: High Horse by Kasey Musgraves

Clara: Flames by Sia & David Guetta

________________

Follow Germein

PHOTO CREDIT: Israel Baldago Photography 

Official:

https://www.germeinsisters.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/GermeinSisters

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/GermeinSisters

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/germeinsisters/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/4HqEpxJ1EFniGkSiNKQWCG

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2aUUiXG4FBPW4BPF37COzA

FEATURE: Songs of Freedom and Change: Nelson Mandela at One Hundred: The Playlist

FEATURE:

 

 

Songs of Freedom and Change

IN THIS PHOTO: Nelson Mandela/ALL PHOTOS: Getty Images/Press Assocation 

Nelson Mandela at One Hundred: The Playlist

__________

TODAY would have been Nelson Mandela’s…

one-hundredth birthday and, as you’d imagine, there have been loads of tributes and stories coming through in the news. The great man died in 2013 and, since then, people have been sharing their experiences with Mandela and how he changed their lives. President Barack Obama has just delivered his Nelson Mandela lecture in Johannesburg where he channels the wisdom and humanity of the former South African leader. Obama celebrated the importance of immigration and, in a disguised jab at current President Donald Trump; he called for change and honesty. It is another example of Nelson Mandela inspiring people after his death and how much he gave to the world. Other stories have come out today – including revelations and snippets from the letters he wrote whilst imprisoned for twenty-seven years for ‘conspiring to overthrow the state’. A lot more brilliance and story-sharing will come throughout the day as we discuss a terrific human who wanted peace and quality, not only in South Africa but the entire world. I have compiled some songs written about Nelson Mandela or inspired by him; those that seem to bring his soul and spirit to mind. Many will do a better job - but I felt I had to pay my own tribute to…

NELSON Mandela.

FEATURE: The Kick Inside: A Radio Documentary Highlighting Gender Divides in Music and Celebrating Female Artists

FEATURE:

 

 

The Kick Inside

ALL PHOTOS (unless credited otherwise): Unsplash 

A Radio Documentary Highlighting Gender Divides in Music and Celebrating Female Artists

__________

MY ambition to get a music T.V. show on air…

continues (and is taking some time to crack!) but I have been thinking about radio and an area I have not ventured into yet. I have not been on T.V., either, but there is something accessible and alluring about radio. Over the weekend, I am exploring the podcast and how one can get their own launched and to the people. I am pitching an idea – to a couple of radio production companies – that revolves around gender divides in music and how/whether there is sexism. It is not a preachy and angry piece but it would look at the current state of the industry and the changes coming in. I have written about sexism in music quite a lot – and will continue to do so – and feel it is something that is not going anywhere at all. The title, something I should address, is not 100% confirmed but seems like an appropriate thing. The name, of course, comes from Kate Bush’s debut of the same name – my favourite record and one I cannot get enough of. The Kick Inside looked at topics such as love, lust and nature; connection to nature and literature…a mature and strong effort from a new artist. In my mind; I want to use the title as a metaphor for the sense of fight and strength that is coming from the ‘womb’ of music. I dabbled with another title, XYZ, but it needs quite a bit of explanation.

IN THIS PHOTO: Kate Bush (photographed in 1978)/PHOTO CREDIT: Chris Moorhouse/Evening Standard/Hulton Archive/Getty Images

It is a reference to the way a lot of promoters and musical figures reduce women to rather simplistic and anonymous terms – “X, Y and Z is playing at…”, for instance. The ‘XY’ is a reference to the male chromosome and how it tends to take prominence. It might take favour but I feel it is a little bit Byzantine and unconnected. In any case; whatever the title is, I am determined to get something made that collates names from new music. Half of the documentary – or a three-parter if I can stretch it that far – would look at the situation in music and how gender issues have changed in music. I will look at the problems that still exist and what more can be done. Themes would include festivals, sexual assault; jobs in studios and the imbalance regards pay of male and female D.J.s. I have been listening a lot to Woman’s Hour and becoming a lot more informed regards the pay gap and a lot of other issues that are affecting the gender debate. The latest BBC findings regarding their highest-paid talent raise questions and have sparked new debate. Big festivals are unfolding and occurring and, once more, the argument regarding all-male headliners and a gulf between male and female names have provoked some feedback and negative remark. There is a lot to digest but, above all, is a comparison between where we are now and where we started many decades ago.

I want to bring together a selection of new artists – from unsigned and fresh to those in the mainstream – and some bigger, established artists who have been in the industry for a long time. It would not only be women involved in the documentary. It would be good to get views from male artists, D.J.s and figures that can share their experiences and (perhaps) offer some explanation as to why there are gaps. It is vital to cover as much ground as possible in the opening half of The Kick inside - making me wonder whether a multi-part piece might provide more room to breathe and explore. The other side of the coin, as it were, would be the great music and work of female artists present and past. It is not only musicians that would be involved regarding input and work: I will speak with journalists, D.J.s and public figures (from acting and other areas) who want to add their voice to the debate. The music would explore the decades and a chance for contributors to choose tracks – I would get a say regarding a few of my favourite female-made songs. I am thinking more about a three-part feature so I can have a proper look, in thirty-minute, at great music and a lively debate. It is an interesting subject, sexism and gender in music, that has been explored before.

PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

What I have noticed is the lack of male artists and figures who have broached the subject themselves. Most male musicians and D.J.s want equality and changes but how many of them go out of their way to tackle things and get their voices heard?! Maybe there is reluctance regarding stepping into a rather complicated area and making sure what you/they say is authoritative and adds value. Many/most of those who talk about gender in music are women, and so, many feel unsure whether they will be taken seriously and if it is ‘their fight’. That might be the biggest problem we have: an apathy and assumption that women will take care of the problem. It is complex to launch into the sexism debate but I feel more male figures should be taken a stand and making some noise. Although there are developments right across music; I still think there are challenges ahead and needless stumbling blocks. The reason I wanted to launch a documentary and get the views of women (and men) in music is to unite all the voices I am hearing on social media. There are so many different angles and observations from all area of the industry. Rather than try and take it all in and get different interpretations: bringing it all into a single format with music backing up the discussions, I feel, is a good way to get the messages to the masses.

There are documentaries regarding sexism and feminism available alongside interesting articles that explore sexism in certain parts of the music industry. You can look at the classic documentaries that opened our eyes and more modern examples. In fact, looking at Play Your Gender – a documentary that looked at sexism and the male-female ratio in areas of music – there are some snippets from this review that I will build on. The first explores women supporting women in music and whether many men are willing to support women:

“Clearly much hard work is being done by women to support other women in music production and in the promotion of each others’ music. Although the conclusion of Play Your Gender encourages us to think realistically about how much of a structural shift these initiatives will encourage beyond visibility for performers. For example, male promoters still have a bias towards booking other men, as ”Helena Hauff discusses in an interview with Dazed. So it looks like for a diverse range of women to be promoted in music, there needs to be more to combat men’s preconceptions of the artists that they are booking, or better still find ways of getting women into promotion and tour management roles themselves. Even though women artists may be taken more seriously on stage and by fans, the music production and promotion aspect of their career is still plagued by masculine creative and logistical control”.

Another part of the review reflects on the core of my idea: interviewing women from all corners of the industry – including black and L.G.B.T.Q.I.A. – and seeing whether there is a common perspective:

“Utilising a Q&A format with numerous musicians, fans, neuroscientists, producers and artist managers, Play Your Gender allows a diverse range of women to speak informatively about the gender-specific issues that face them collectively but also differently. The film portrays many standpoints from the female experience; with perspectives included from WOC musicians and lesbian musicians in America. Brooklyn-based musician Xenia Rubinos asserts that diversity or its lack can have a real impact on who feels welcomed into the industry, by stating that “Having examples of people that look like you plays a part in whether you feel inspired… Or not.” But Sara Quin of Teagan & Sara thinks - although not contrastively - that women should toughen up and get used to rejection from the industry. Women are not going to agree on everything, it seems - after all, there is no collective feminist hive-mind as some may like to think”.

There have been some revealing documentaries, on radio and film, that explore sexism and the subject of gender imbalance – whether it is producers (as with Play Your Gender) or festivals and the way they book artists. There is a long way to go but, for me, it is important to add my voice to the discussion and add a new dimension. I hope The Kick Inside sees the light of day and can make its way to BBC Radio 4. If not, I will find a way of making a more low-key version that, I hope, encourages other male journalists to…

IN THIS PHOTO: Florence Welch (Florence + the Machine)/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

CREATE something similar.

INTERVIEW: Future Generations

INTERVIEW:

Future Generations

___________

THE chaps of Future Generations…

have been telling me about their new single, All the Same, and filming its video. They discuss New York City and what we will get from their upcoming album, Landscape – the band tells me how they got together and whether their latest work differs from their earlier stuff.

I discover what the guys do away from music and which upcoming musicians we should get behind; what they hope to accomplish before the end of the year; whether they all share music tastes – they each end the interview by selecting a song.

____________

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

We’re great! Relaxing after a little tour in June. End of June/early-July is the time we’ve all planned our summer vacation/family obligations - until we get back and start getting ready for the fall tour.

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

We are five fellas looking to inspire future generations with new-fangled Indie-Pop.

All the Same is out. What is the story behind the song? How did it come together?

We’ve been working on this song for quite some time. We originally recorded it all the way back when we recorded One More Problem but something about it just didn’t sit right. It took us many tweaks and adjustments until we realized that the drums are what needed to be fixed. We took about eight hours straight in the studio going late into the night trying different drum grooves until we decided that the simplest groove was the best.

Sometimes, it just works out that way.

What was it like putting the video together? Was it a pretty eventful shoot?

The shoot was ultra-smooth. We worked with Ken Polyak and Drew Lewis. We had a similar vision for the song: retro party vibes juxtaposed with a dystopian work/school environment. We had a ton of fun and got the chance to connect with a few fans whom we invited via Twitter for the party scenes.

Landscape, the album, is out on 14th September. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the music? Do you each have a standout cut?

Heartbreak, maturity; exhaustion, perseverance and new love. These are the emotional themes behind the album. Musically, there are too many to name but the ‘umbrella theme’ would be challenging ourselves to make the best songs we could. There was never a specific genre, band or sound we were trying to achieve: we just wanted to take each song and bring it to what we thought was its full potential.

How do you think the album differs from your early work? Do you consciously add new elements in?

We’d like to think of this album as more of a cohesive set of songs. Our first record was a compilation of songs that were recorded throughout a few years. With this record, we had a ton of demos; picked the best twelve or so with our producer and re-worked them, one song per day, for almost two weeks straight in the studio.

What was it like working with producer Justin Gerrish?

The experience was a re-enactment of the movie, Whiplash. Just kidding. It was more like the movie, The Mighty Ducks, and Justin was Gordon Bombay. Aside from being a real talent in the studio and behind the board, Justin was pretty instrumental in encouraging us to experiment and get the songs to places we’re excited about.

How did the band get together? What was it that bonded you all?

We met in the basement of our freshman dorm at Fordham University in The Bronx. It was the music room (literally, a room with an electric piano) and Eric (with a guitar) stumbled upon Eddie (playing the piano). They started playing and it was going pretty alright but then Mike stumbles into the room with a weird box and some speakers. Turns out, it was a mythological sampling device known as the MPC2000 that would soon develop our sound and be the glue that made our songs come alive - and eventually made us decide that, hey, why not be a band. Soon enough, we landed our first paid gig (out on the quad, paid heavily with Taco Bell crunchy tacos).

When we started playing shows a bit more seriously, we recruited notorious bass legend on campus, Devon. When we started playing even more seriously we recruited our drummer, Dylan, off of craigslist.

Do you all share musical tastes would you say? Have you all discovered artists through one another?

We’re constantly introducing artists and songs to each other. One of the biggest ways we all discover music is through each other. When we’re touring, we like to pass around a phone with Spotify and each put on a song in a playlist for the ride. We’re always taking note of a song we like that some of us haven’t heard.

What do you hope to achieve in 2018?

Besides becoming the next Def Leppard, we want to visit as many Applebee’s across the U.S.A. as possible.

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

We all have different favorites. One of the best experiences for all of us was our time at Firefly. Seeing Weezer, Muse; The Weeknd, Busta Rhymes and others only mere feet in front of you was so inspiring and joyous. 

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

Dylan: I would play drums for John Mayer.

My rider would include water, red wine; cheese and crackers, steak frites; an Xbox with Call of Duty and a T.V. to view live sports. I think I could ask for all of that playing with him…

Eric: I’d open for Andrea Bocelli.

My rider would include a barbecue and a few hundred hot dogs and hamburgers.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Tour your freakin’ arses off. It’s the best way to grow your fan base and get tight as a band. Do it at any cost.

IN THIS PHOTO: pronoun

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Side Hustle, Ritual Talk; pronoun, YL; Petite League and Zuli.

IN THIS PHOTO: Ritual Talk

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

Yeah, definitely. We all have jobs aside from playing music. Typically to unwind, we’ll go to the beach or do some Tae Bo or eat at one of the many fine eating establishing we have here in N.Y.C.

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).

Dylan: Vundabar – Oulala

Eric: Bruce Springsteen - The Ties That Bind

Eddie: Side Hustle - This’ll Never Seem Real

Mike: Lawn - My Boy

Devon: Maggie Rogers - Fallingwater

__________

Follow Future Generations

Official:

http://futuregenerationsmusic.com/   

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/futuregenband

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/futuregenerationsmusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/futuregenerationsmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3wKj5PmSpnrtz9n9hG2QCA

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/futuregenerationsmusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVRbxdfB7zkGyMAEl4mm1gA

INTERVIEW: Jenna Calandra

INTERVIEW:

Jenna Calandra

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I have been talking with Jenna Calandra…

about her single, I’ll Be, and what its story is. Calandra reveals the song’s personal background and looks ahead to her self-titled album. I ask what sort of themes and stories will be included on the album; if there is a varied and busy music scene on Long Island, New York; which new/upcoming artist we should get behind – the songwriter talks about her influences and musical tastes.

Calandra talks to me about the ambitions she has for the rest of the year; which musical memory stands in her mind; the advice she would give to artists coming through – she ends the interview by choosing a song that means a lot to her.

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

Hello, Sam! I’ve been absolutely amazing! I’m working on some new music in the studio that I cannot wait to share!

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

My name is Jenna Calandra. I’m twenty-three-years-old; I’m an independent recording artist and songwriter! I live on Long Island, .N.Y. in the Suffolk County area. Music has been my life ever since I was a little girl.

Talk to me about the single, I’ll Be. Is there a personal story behind the song?

My debut single, I’ll Be, is about my personal experience with bullying. I was bullied in school. Kids in my grade would tease me about how I wanted to be a singer; they would call me the meanest names; they would tease me about how I live and where I came from. The song’s storyline is where I’ve accomplished and overcome my fears of making new friends; how much I’ve grown confidence, improvement and growth.

I have grown so much as an artist and person. My scars may be invisible but they are like battle wounds to me. I feel like this song is my anthem of being independent and strong. While I was recording, I was crying through my takes and that’s why I may sound shaky in my vocals. I was crying while I was singing and between the takes. I felt so emotional throughout the whole song. I want to inspire others who are going through bullying with this song and I love performing this song at my live shows I did in the past. 

I understand you are in the midst of making an album. Can you reveal any of the songs and themes that will appear on it? What has it been like putting the songs together?

I am writing this song about my bipolar disorder and having autism. The song I’m writing and recording is about where I was diagnosed with bipolar and autism and I didn’t know who I was at the moment...

But, now, I realized that I am like everyone else - pursuing my dreams and working my butt off. I’m working so hard and these songs changed my life. The themes on the album are about heartbreak, personal struggles; falling in love and being betrayed and judged. I don’t want people to look at me as the autistic girl because I feel judged for who I am every day and I learn to love myself. I look like a typical girl who can get a job and drive a car.

I hate using the word ‘normal’ - so I use ‘typical’. I do have autism and that’s what this album is about: finding myself and loving myself for who I am. These songs are so personal and I can’t wait for someone to say: “I can totally relate to your song”. That would make my day and make my heart happy. I realized I’ve opened up so much on this album and I want people to relate to my songs and lyrics.

Do you recall which song/moment started the album? How did it all get started?

I was writing My Love for You, which is my third single on the album. I was sixteen. It was the first song I wrote for the album. When I was eighteen I wrote Warrior, which is about how much I’ve accomplished and the confidence I’ve found - the album name came about (for these songs) when I was about twenty-years-old. I didn’t start recording professionally until I was twenty-two...and that’s how it all started and came about. I was discussing with my producer about the idea of an E.P. or an album. I told him I wanted to do a self-titled album because there is so much to say in my music and personal stories/struggles. So, then we came up with the title Jenna.

Long Island is your home. What is the music like there? Are there a lot of great local acts coming through?

I have a lot of musician friends on Long Island. My friend, Ali B., is so talented. She travels all over Long Island and New York City to pursue her music career. Music is great here: we have a lot of music festivals for indie artists and musicians like Alive After 5 music festival. There’s so much to do, musically, on Long Island. I feel like I have connected with a lot of talented musicians here.

Which artists did you follow when you were growing up?

Definitely, Demi Lovato! I would watch her as Mitchie on Camp Rock, which is my favorite childhood movie on the Disney Channel! She inspired me to not give up on my dreams and goals. I want to achieve my goals and make them into reality. Demi Lovato is number-one on my list. She seems like a cool person to hang out with - she is sweet, funny; smart and crazy-talented!

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

The goals I want to achieve at the end of 2018 are to go on tour (in 2019) to promote the self-titled record. I’m titling the tour I’ll Be Tour and then, maybe, I will title my world tour 'Jenna' after the album. My producer knows music venues and promoters so we will get that going next year! I love performing so much! So stay tuned for tour dates!

Will there be any tour dates? Where can we see you play?

I mentioned that I will be announcing my I’ll Be Tour sometime next year to promote the album! I’m super-excited. I have to discuss with my producer about the venues I want to play - this has always been a dream, to go on tour. I can’t wait to announce the I’ll Be Tour in 2019!

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

Wow; there are so many memories of my time in music...

I would have to say when I stepped my foot into The Loft Sound Studio where I’m recording my self-titled record. I was recording covers in my first session and then I started recording music and vocals for my debut single. It was so much fun and emotional to record this debut single. This single means so much to me and I’m so glad it’s the single off my debut album. I want people to listen to the lyrics carefully and what the lyrics mean because it tells a story. The reason why I am going to The Loft Sound Studio is because of Madison Beer. She inspired me to make my album with Matt and Donnie, who are the producers of the studio. They are amazing, down-to-earth guys and I am so blessed to be working with them!

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

I would have to say Demi by Demi Lovato; Rainbow by Kesha and Confident by Demi Lovato. I’m telling you; Demi is my bad-ass! She is my favorite of all time. But, her self-titled album inspired me for my self-titled debut. Her songs on that album remind me of mine - because I am writing about my own struggles and experiences. Demi the album is so relatable and inspiring, so that’s why I’m making my own self-titled record.

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

I would support Madison Beer 100%. She is inspired me to go to The Loft Sound Studio where I’m recording for my debut album. She inspired me to be and stay as an independent artist and she inspires me to never give up. I love her song Fools from her new E.P., As She Pleases. I met Madison at the Gramercy Theatre on May 17th, 2018. She was the sweetest and I told her I go to The Loft and I told her she inspired me to go there - which made her feel so flattered and special. She is so special to me and my inspiration.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say just be yourself; keep practicing 24/7, keep taking vocal lessons and just do what you love. Doing what you love makes you the happiest person in the world. My motto is “You are beautifully and wonderfully made”, which is a quote from Demi Lovato from her book, Staying Strong. It hit me and I’m always saying to myself: “I am strong, independent and talented”. That’s what that quote means to me and I always stick to that motto. You are beautifully and wonderfully made; you are talented and God has a plan for you. Don’t ever let anyone get in the way of your potential!

IN THIS PHOTO: Madison Beer

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I think there are a lot of artists you should check out! There is this one artist, Madison Beer. She was discovered by Justin Bieber and she is now independent with First Access Entertainment. She was signed with Def Jam Records. Now I feel like I can be independent because of her and you should check out her recent E.P., As She Pleases!

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

I never stop doing music! During my free time, I practice singing so I can get better; I’m songwriting for the album and I’m always in the studio. I can’t wait to share new music!

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).

Fools by Madison Beer (from the As She Pleases E.P.)

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Follow Jenna Calandra

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/JennaLCalandra

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jennacalandra/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/jennacalandra/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3gIjporanzXffScaTlaooH

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jennacalandra

INTERVIEW: Lunafruit

INTERVIEW:

Lunafruit

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THE tremendous Lunafruit have set time aside…

to talk about their latest single, Rise, and what its story is. They talk about meeting one another whilst playing as session musicians in the same studio; how they split their time between Barcelona and London – the guys highlight some upcoming musicians worth a shout.

Lunafruit reveal what they want to achieve by the end of this year; whether there is any more material arriving soon enough; whether they get any time to unwind away from music – the guys each select a song to end the interview with.

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

Hey! Good - our week has been very full and very exciting. We’re in pretty intensive rehearsals for our summer tour at the moment, so really enjoying getting creative with our tracks in a live setting.

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

Sure thing. We’re Lunafruit; otherwise known as Elliot (Guitar, Vocals and Percussion), Sophie (Vocals, Keys and Sax) and Archie (Bass, Vocals and Sax). We’re a trio that sometimes has extra guests and our sound is somewhere between Pop, R&B; Soul and Funk.

Rise is your new single. What is the story behind the track?

Rise is a simple tune about that hazy time between sleep and waking up. We wrote it very quickly in a couple of hours on a summer evening whilst recording in Spain last year. We tried to capture that sense of simplicity in the production of the track - and we’re super-happy with how it’s gone down so far.

Lunafruit formed after the three of you met in your role as session musicians. Were you playing for the same artist – or did you happen to meet at the same studio?

Yeah! We were all working at a studio called Abubilla in South London a couple of years ago and realised we shared musical taste and wanted to make the same kind of music. So, we founded the project and here we are!

You spread your time between South London and Barcelona. How do the contrasting areas affect your music? What is Barcelona like for music and gigs?

The two cities bring a really different energy to our songs, which were written between the two whilst Sophie was based out there this year. Obviously, in greyer days in London, Barcelona brought out a sunnier side to the tracks and we were really inspired by going to see lots of Latin-influenced music out there. Barcelona’s music scene is a lot smaller than London’s but full of diverse sounds from around the world. The two balance each other perfectly.

I understand there might be more material later in the year. Can you reveal whether that might be an E.P. or another single?

Yep - we’ve got an E.P. in the pipeline for later this year.

Do you all share tastes in music? Do you recall the artists you grew up around?

Archie listens exclusively to Funk and Disco and resents the band for not letting him wear sunglasses while he plays bass.

If you were sent to a desert island and could only take one album – not nicking this from any radio show or anything! – which would it be and why?

Right now, it would be George Benson. We’ve been listening to a lot of his stuff doing rehearsals and it’s been providing a lot of energy and inspiration.

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

By the end of 2018, we want to have played a lot of shows, met lots of people and started some collabs. Also, Sophie wants to complete her Grade 3 castanet.

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

Archie once played the recorder with his nose on T.V. Don’t ask.

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

Vulfpeck would be dreamy. Our rider would include a lot of Penguin bars.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Play, play, play. Even the bad ones when no one’s listening.

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

We’re off to Scotland for some shows there as part of the Edinburgh Festival in August and then we’ve got our homecoming show at Kansas Smitty’s in London on 4th September.

IN THIS PHOTO: Midas Hutch/PHOTO CREDIT: Fabio de Frel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Too many to mention! At the moment, we’re really into Midas Hutch, Poppy Ajudha and Emma-Jean Thackray as a starting point.

IN THIS PHOTO: Poppy Ajudha

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

We’re pretty tunnel-vision on our project at the moment but, when we want some time, out we love going out for a good old-fashioned boogie - and a lazy day in the park always helps.

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).

Sophie: I Am in Love - Jennifer Lara

Archie: Stay for a While – Gibbz

Elliot: Family Affair - Sly and the Family Stone

Cheers!

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Follow Lunafruit

Official:

http://www.lunafruit.co.uk/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/itslunafruit

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/itslunafruit

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/itslunafruit/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0tSGbI0Q0kYCrJKBd44flc?si=SsSx3jaGQwCAB4tMHab4SA

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/user-592310724

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvftMBXau1nF7cZJs1IGhGQ

PHOTOS:

Alice Aedy