INTERVIEW: Julian Wa — Music Musings & Such

INTERVIEW:

Julian Wa

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THANKS to Julian Wa…

for talking about his recent single, Bloom, and how it came to mind. I wonder whether there is any more material coming and if he has ambitions to hit the road and play his music to the people – Wa recommends a couple of rising artists we need to get behind and support.

The Australian songwriter tells me a few albums that mean a lot to him and what he does when not making music; what he hopes to achieve by the end of the year and whether he feels he has evolved as a musician since the start – he ends the interview with a great track.

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

Hi, there. I’m very well, thanks. My weeks are busy but productive.

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

I have always viewed the music as more of an experience than a collection of songs. Like a psychedelic soundtrack to my life.

Bloom is your debut single. Is there a background to the song?

Bloom is actually about the very opposite: it’s about taking the easier route in life and feeling totally unfulfilled as a result.

Might we see more material coming next year? Are you working on new stuff?

The main focus currently is an experimental, lo-fi project set for release mid-next year. But, I am working on several things. I like to stay busy and keep my mind focused.

Do you think you have evolved and strengthened as a musician since your early days?

Very much so. Naturally, the more I grow as a musician, the easier it becomes.

Can you remember when you decided to get into music? Was there a moment you knew it was for you?

For as long as I can remember, music has always been there for me and I have always had a great deal of passion for it. It’s also very much therapeutic.

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

I feel I have achieved most of what I wanted in 2018 with the release of Bloom; recruiting Ditto as my new distributor and gaining some traction on the Aussie music scene. Very much looking forward to what next year has in store.

Have you got a favourite memory from your time in music so far - one that sticks in mind?

I have plenty of stories to tell about shows/tours etc. But, I must say my favorite memories are always recording in total solitude and jamming with close and talented friends

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

I can’t say definitively as there are many more but currently I would say John Martyn - Solid Air; Captain Beefheart and His Magic Band - Safe as Milk and Wings - Wild Life. All three are truly innovative and I feel we are in need of that in 2018.

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

I would love to work with Reggae artist Barrington Levy. All I need is English breakfast tea and whatever he is smoking .

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

My advice would be keep your head down and work harder than you ever have if this is what you truly want in life.

Do you have tour dates coming up? Where can we catch you play?

Shows will be announced for late-2019. I want to release as much music/content as possible before getting back on the road. I love having the time to write and record with very little outside influence.

How important is it being on stage and performing? Do you love playing your music to crowds?

Stage time is everything and I cannot wait to introduce a brand new sound/energy. All very exciting to me.