INTERVIEW: The Higher Planes

INTERVIEW:

The Higher Planes

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I have been speaking with Adam and Jon…

of The Higher Planes about their double A-side, Keep Your Lamplight Burning Low/You Know, and what the stories behind the songs are. They discuss how the band found one another and what music they are inspired by; what their plans are going forward and whether they each have favourite albums.

I discover how the band’s music gels and whether they get chance to chill away from music; what they hope to achieve before the end of this year; which rising artists we need to get behind and whether there are treasured musical memories that stick in the mind.

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

Adam: Hello. This week has been good; although I’ve spent a lot more time tragically hungover than I would have liked. We did meet an interesting new producer, though.

Jon: Pretty uneventful. We had the launch gig for the release last Friday and normal life is always waiting round the corner.

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

Adam: The Higher Planes are a kind of ramshackle Soul band: the kind you might have heard in the golden era. We are shameless revivalists with loads of hair, angelic singing voices; a no-synth policy and an ever-expanding line-up which now includes George ‘The Major Seventh’ Dimension on the trumpet and Richard ‘Suspended’ Forthe on the public saxophone. They might have real names, I don’t know. You could ask them.

I think our aim is to create a warm, dancy and soulful experience for the people in attendance. My concern is a lot of people seem to be on the slow slide to weary cynicism, losing all feeling in their feet. The way I see it, what we do is try to top the good feeling back up; let that joy and abandon grow back like leaves after winter - I mean for us as much as anyone listening.

Jon: We're The Higher Planes; a (mostly) six-piece....Garage-Soul band?! We used to say ‘folky’ but we've been doing our live shows on the principle it's gotta be super -groovy and deeper rhythms are a bit easier to get into.

 

Tell me about the double A-side release, Keep Your Lamplight Burning Low/You Know. What is the story behind each track?

Adam: Keep Your Lamplight Burning Low is for all the people creaking under the cascade of worrying information that’s taking a grim toll on our heads today; seemingly more invasively than ever (although, let’s face it; it ain’t exactly World War II right now). Or, maybe, it is for some people, in their minds Anyhow; I think it’s saying ‘Take it steady, try not to fret; all is unfolding exactly as it should be in the great cosmic comedy…’ 

You Know is an odd one. It’s an upbeat Soul banger that’s also a story about being burned alive in a giant psychedelic tribal ceremony - a bit like the remake of The Wicker Man with Nicholas Cage. Not the bees! What’s on me?

Jon: I guess the first one is about how to not get crazy and how not to fall asleep in these dark and murky times. A lot of the songs we do have contain a lot of apocalyptic lyrics and such and this one, I think, came about as trying to write a more positive kind of song, which only half-worked before it got derailed by mystical visions – but, basically, it's about keeping your eyes open.

You Know is just a bit of a fever-dream about being the guy in The Wicker Man + symbolism, irrational ideas; things like that.

 

What was the reason for releasing a double A-side? Will there be more material next year?

Adam: The shady characters at Super King Records who pull the strings said their projections were a few percent better doing it that way. Who am I to argue against the cold, hard data?

And, yes, there will be more soon, friend. We’re heading back into the studio in December to whip up some more metaphysically, nutritious soul stew. Probably another two tracks, given the time we have. Big room, recording live (ish); more feeling; more fuzz more of the time.

Jon: We're just trying to record when we can. There's quite a few of us and we're pretty busy, so two tracks were what we got out of our session, especially because they've got quite a few parts and we couldn't, on that occasion, just play them all live and have it done. It's probably gonna be a while before we've got an album of tracks done to a good enough standard.

Maybe we'll get an E.P. done before too long. Otherwise, I think we just thought they're both pretty cool and double A-side sounds fancy. And there's no one to tell us how releases are meant to go, so we just called it a double A-side.

You have brought a horn section into your music and are working with Jazz drummer Angus Bishop. What was the reason for this employment and how do you think it is has altered your sound?

Adam: Brother Jon has always been trying to move in the souliest (sic) possible direction. The horns were a natural progression to the dream set up of a Wilson Pickett-type act. We’re just missing keys…and Wilson Pickett…

Angus Bishop is a long-time friend and collaborator of JJ Stillwell, player of the bass. They call him ‘The Bishop’ because he only moves diagonally. He was playing with us for a while some years back, but then left for some kind of mystic drum odyssey for some months. When he came back, he said he was up for it so we nabbed him. I should mention it’s not him on the recordings (that’s the inimitable Ginger Drage From A Previous Age) - you’ll have to wait for the new year to hear Angus’ particular brand of stick magic. He’s like the Rembrandt of drums. And he’s added gears and dynamics we didn’t know we were capable of before.

Jon: I think it's always made sense and been a bit of an ambition to put horns onto lots of our songs. Those two tracks were pretty down-the-line-Rock-‘n’-Soul rhythms so it was a no-brainer. First, the Soul influences and I know the sound in my head always has devastating horn blasts all over the bloody place. Some of it is just about having more options – having organs, pianos and theremins and all of that and go with whatever suits the songs.

With Angus, he and JJ studied music together and play together in other projects, so they know each other and each other's playing really well and there's something about Jazz players that make for great Rock ‘n’ Roll players – especially when we want a psychy feeling which we haven't yet done that much of. It's all a bit more technicolour.

How did The Higher Planes get together? When did the band form?

Adam: Jon and I; we are brothers. So, we’ve spent most of a lifetime terrorising the neighbours with our raucous musical endeavours. I think we were playing as a three-piece a couple of years ago with a drummer (and having to switch between guitar and bass constantly) until we met JJ (the boyfriend of a friend of my ex-girlfriend). He took care of low notes. We roped our spectacular women in with promises of fame and glory - and the fact they didn’t really have to carry anything cumbersome or heavy…apart from us at the end of a particularly powerful show.

Jon: Me and Adam have been playing for ages and were just doing acoustic gigs around the place when we got together with Sarah, Deci and JJ to make a bigger sound. For a long time, we played with Ginger Drage, a drummer based around Brentford, and now with Angus. We've played gigs around London for the past few years with a few jaunts around the country.

Which artists did you all grow up around? Do you have any personal musical idols?

Adam: We were both mad on The Beatles and The Stones and learned to harmonise sat at Maggie the Piano blasting out Not Fade Away and Hey Bulldog. Musical idols would be many of the people on the Woodstock roster and also classic English Folk acts like Pentangle. I could go on. And I will. We’ve played with some pretty excellent bands lately. More on that later…

Jon: When I got to sixteen, I started getting into the Blues at the same time as San Francisco bands and just followed all the rabbit holes that opened up after. That's what remained, but we listened to most stuff really.

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

Adam: In the next three months? Not getting hit by a car or a fast bicycle; fulfilling everyone’s Christmas wishes; maybe even making a video for one or both of these songs.

Jon: We're trying to find a bit more studio time, so maybe one or two new songs down. After that, I think we've gotta think about 2019: getting a good E.P., properly done, and going round the country a bit.

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

Adam: Touring with Hurray for the Riff Raff last year. Eye-opening.

Jon: Well. Seeing as it's pretty fresh in the memory; I'd say our recent launch gig at Paper Dress Vintage. The first we've had with horns and some of the moments that we got to put in there were very cool. Playing the Joiner's Arms in Camberwell is always good times. And some of the recent practices where the whole arrangement comes together for the first time.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Adam: Oooh. Exile on Main Street by The Rolling Stones

Pure magic. And, also, I would quite like to swan off to Nice to live in a mansion, eat bread; drink wine and create music for the rest of my life.

Jon: Couldn't really say it's my favourite ever, because I don't think there is one, but Country Joe and the Fish – I-Feel-Like-I'm-Fixin'-to-Die is cool because it's not that complicated; just a band being really organic sounding.

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

Adam: Alabama Shakes. Or Queens of the Stone Age… ah shucks, go on…The Stones! On the rider; 1 x giant pile of old-fashioned, 100%-proof medical chang. Nah; scratch that. 1 x largest possible bag of Twiglets. And two beers, cold.

Can we see you on the road this year at all?

Adam: This year, as in 2018? No. You’ll find us in the usual haunts, probably a few shows around South London. We’ll figure something out further afield in the summertime. I want to go back to the North.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Adam: Hahah! We are not qualified to give any. Apart from stay away from leechy ‘promoters’ who do nothing for anyone but themselves. Find the good venues and talk to them directly. If no one feeds the leeches, they might do us all a favour and go extinct.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Wax Machine/PHOTO CREDIT: Abigail Polaine

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Adam: Check out Jouis and Wax Machine. They’re two acts from Brighton I think and they’re both very good in very different ways. I don’t know if they’re fully fledged idols yet, but I respect what they’re doing. Also; ESE & the Vooduu People are pretty gnarly. And there’s a Scottish blues band called The Rising Souls that we’re big fans of. They’re like a Glasgow Audioslave! Come to London, lads! We’ll put on a show.

IN THIS PHOTO: ESE & the Vooduu People

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

Adam: I relax in between rehearsals and gigs by being a full-time school teacher. Therapeutic as hell it is, trying to teach loads of children how to make graphs and read good, all the while knowing that, by the time they hit eighteen, they’re going straight into the Matrix to power robot Tory octopuses.

Jon: We have bags of time away from music as I think all of us have day jobs. We unwind by playing music. Maybe one day it'll be the other way around - and we can unwind with part-time office or factory jobs.

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).

Adam: Please Crawl Out Your Window (the Jimi Hendrix version). Thank you.

Jon: Nearer My God to Thee – Sam Cooke & the Soul Stirrers (the live eight-plus minute version - Great Shrine Concert, 1955)

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Follow The Higher Planes

Official:

https://www.thehigherplanes.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/thehigherplanes

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thehigherplanes

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thehigherplanes/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6T1pXB7fM3gPa8E9plpEz9

Bandcamp:

https://thehigherplanes.bandcamp.com/

INTERVIEW: Ruby Randall

INTERVIEW:

Ruby Randall

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THANKS to Ruby Randall…

for talking about her single, The City, and what the story behind the track is. I ask which albums are most important to her and whether she has any goals to achieve before this year is through – she talks about a brief move from Canada to Spain and why she has relocated.

I ask Randall which aspiring musicians we need to follow closely and whether there are any gigs booked; if she has any advice for artists coming through; whether there is a special musical memory that sticks in her mind – she ends the interview by picking a cool track.

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

My week has been a bit wild. I’ve just moved from my home in Canada to Almeria, Spain. I’m here for nine months teaching English to high school-age kids and learning Spanish. I also really wanted to slow my life down and take some time to do the things that I’m always longing to do while in the city - making music being one of them! I’m a social worker back home in Toronto, so don’t get as much time as I’d like to make music. 

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

For those of you who are new to my music, my name is Ruby Randall. I’ve just recently released two new tracks - The City and Loaded Man - under my own name. I played in a band called beau for a long time in Toronto and this is my first solo release since the band’s split.   

The City is your latest release. What is the story behind the song?

The inspiration behind The City actually has a lot to do with my current move to Spain: I was feeling a bit resistant to Toronto’s pace of life. I was always feeling like I wanted to move more slowly and that I was only scratching the surface of things because I felt pulled in so many directions.

I was also really aware of how easy it was to keep myself distracted in a big city and how this sense of distraction kept me from being fully present, or landing on the depth that I so often crave from life. Since moving to Spain, my life has been substantially slower. I live by the sea. Nature just moves more slowly and gives you the opportunity to do the same. 

What sort of music did you grow up around? Did you have a varied upbringing?

I grew up around a lot of Canadian-made Folk music, perhaps unsurprisingly. My parents played a lot of music made by their friends. My mom also loved Emmylou Harris and Lucinda Williams. Every time I hear these women, I’m reminded of my mom cooking in the kitchen and the house being calm. My dad loves Bluegrass and played in a Bluegrass band. I still remember the words to most of the songs that his band would play. 

What do you hope to achieve by the end of this year?

By the end of 2018, I hope to begin to learn how to produce my own music. This is a big task! A lot of my pals who are really good at producing their own music have been at it for the past decade. I don’t expect to be a master by the time I’m done in Spain, but I’d like to have a handle on the process so that I can at least make demos with fully-realized ideas to take with me into the studio.  

Is there a special musical memory that sticks in the mind?

The last show that my band beau played was really special. Perhaps, because we knew it was our last. We had a full house and my family and all my pals were there. We played a great show and the energy in the room was just really wonderful. It felt really good to be ending our time together as a band on such a high note. It actually felt a little bit like something was just beginning and, interestingly, it was the ending!

If you had to choose three albums that mean the most to you, which would they be (and why)?

I always find these questions really hard to answer! The three albums that mean the most to me... mmm….

Perhaps Land of Talk’s Applause Cheer Boo Hiss. Although, honestly, I love each of their albums. This album was just the first one that I fell in love with. Liz Powell, the frontwoman of Land of Talk, is a really good guitar player and I’ve always admired female artists who are both incredible singers and really good at their instruments.

Emmylou Harris’ Wrecking Ball; because it was played in my house for my entire childhood and immediately makes me feel at ease.

I still know all of the words to Destiny’s Child’s The Writing’s on the Wall, so this is my third choice. This album reminds me of how good I felt in my skin when I was twelve. 

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

If I could support any musician alive right now, I might choose Sharon Van Etten. I love her music a lot; it’s so painfully beautiful. Or Land of Talk or Feist. I also might choose someone like Maggie Rogers, because her music is so much fun and I feel like we could be pals. Haha.

My rider would just be full of yummy snacks. Cheese and crackers, olives; salami, fresh fruit and mango juice. Yum.  

What advice would you give to artists coming through at the moment?

My advice to any new musician would be to do your best to be kind to yourself. Putting what you have made out into the world can be hard - it makes you really vulnerable. Do your best not to compare yourself to others! This can be especially hard with social media. Stay connected to own relationship with your creativity - why you love to create things and what feels good about sharing what you make with others. 

Can we catch you on the road very soon? Where are you heading?

I have no tour dates coming up. I’m going to spend the winter writing music in Spain and working on some recordings I made in Toronto before leaving. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Noname

Which new/rising artists do you recommend we check out?

New artists that I recommend you check out: Noname. She has a new album out called Room 25, but I especially love her older album Telefone. Also; La Force just put out a self-titled album that is so good. TBT, Lucky One and Mama Papa are my favourite songs off of La Force’s new album. Merival and Anna Wiebe are two of my good pals from Canada who make beautiful music and sing with me on many of the tunes on my upcoming E.P. Check them out!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Le Force

Do you get time to unwind away from music?

I have recently set up my life so I get a lot of time to make music. Prior to coming to Spain, I didn’t have a lot of time outside of my day job to even make music, so this feels like a special treat to myself. Music is not my full time gig, although I would feel lucky if it was! Currently, I unwind by swimming in the salty sea, cooking, and spending time with one of my best pals, Maya, who lives in Spain with me. She’s magic. 

Finally, and for being a good sport; you can choose any song (not one of yours) and I will play it here.

Can you play TBT by La Force? I can’t get it out of my head! 

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Follow Ruby Randall

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/rubyalways00

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/ruby.angeline.randall/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/album/3OQvWrwjM4j4eHy7SdDhuk

INTERVIEW: Bertie Scott

INTERVIEW:

Bertie Scott

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I am starting off this week…

by interviewing Bertie Scott and asking him about his new track, Feel Alive. I ask Scott whether there is more material coming down the line and which artists he grew up around; if there are rising artists we need to get behind – I ask if we can see the songwriter tour at all.

Scott highlights a few albums that mean a lot to him and tells me what the scene is like where he is in Southend-on-Sea; how he unwinds and relaxes away from music; what he hopes to achieve by the end of this year – he ends the interview by selecting a great modern track.

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

Hi, Sam! I’m all good, thanks. Been a busy week getting everything all prepped and ready - new music out tomorrow; first track I’ve dropped in a while and there’s always last-minute things to rush and get sorted. It’s always the way. Haha.

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

So. My name is Bertie Scott. I’m a songwriter from Southend-on-Sea, Essex (just outside of London). Doing the Pop/Alt-Pop thing.

Feel Alive is your latest single. Is there a story behind the song at all?

So. The main chorus idea for Feel Alive actually came about when I was driving my car. I pulled over straight away and recorded a voice note on my phone – sometimes, when you get random ideas you’ve gotta get them down as soon as possible or they’ll disappear from your mind forever. It’s happened too many times and you always think you’ll remember…but 80% of the time they’re gone by the time you get back to your house. I was actually doing a co-writing session with Jack and Rob from a band called Holloway Road the next week. When we met up, I showed them and the rest of the pieces just fell into place.

The concept behind the song is literally about being alive. Most of the time, we’re so drawn in and programmed by society to do the same thing every day; work 9-5, get back; sit down, watch T.V.; same thing day in day out. It’s so stale. But, sometimes, you just wanna get that buzz from life and really feel something.

Might see more material in 2019? How far ahead are you looking?

Absolutely. I took some time out from releasing music recently and focused on writing. As a consequence, I’ve got a whole backlog of songs recorded up and ready to go. I should be good for the next six months and, at the same time, I’ll be writing and recording even more! I wanna put out as much music as possible. The next track for release is just around the corner as well.

Can you give me a sense of the artists you grew up around? Who do you count as idols?

Michael Jackson - King of Pop. My mum used to play his stuff all the time when we were younger and still does. When I really got into music, though, I remember being fascinated by all the local bands in the area. Me and my friend used to go religiously every Friday to the local venues and watch/listen to music. It was wicked. Some of the bands were so good and I used to buy their C.D.s and go home and learn how to play the tracks and jam out to them on my own for hours.

You are based in Southend-on-Sea. Is there a strong music scene there at the moment?

Absolutely. It’s getting stronger all the time. Some great bands have come from this area. The Horrors went to my school; some of the Nothing But Thieves boys were in my class; Charley from Rixton is from Southend. There are some wicked under-the-radar acts here right now - it’s just a matter of time before some someone crosses over that line again.

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

More music released, more songs written. Honestly, I just wanna get the new tracks out as soon as possible. My favourite song I’ve written so far is still to come - we play it live in the set at the minute but the recorded version is even better. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.

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

I played at Pride Festival in Southend this year and it’s the first time I’ve really heard people sing the words back at me when I was on stage. It was amazing and they were so loud as well. I could hear them over the music! It was only a short set, but so good.

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

Dangerous - Michael Jackson

It’s the first L.P. I remember seeing at home and the way it kicks into the first track is just so good. I always remember seeing it around at home when I was little. The artwork on the front is so cool too. It’s such a nostalgia thing and it takes me right back to when I was younger.

Avenged Sevenfold – Avenged Sevenfold

Seems like an odd choice but, honestly, the first concert I ever went to and still one of the best. My sister got tickets for her birthday and we all went to Brixton Academy to see them play. I didn’t know any of the songs and wasn’t really into Rock music back then…but I literally had that record on repeat for weeks and weeks after we got back from London that night.

So difficult to choose: there’s so many I wanna pick. I’m gonna go with 1989 - Taylor Swift

It made me believe in Pop music again.

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

Probably Taylor Swift. I ended up getting last-minute tickets to her London gig recently and it was the biggest live show I’ve ever seen. So good. The energy in that stadium was insane. I’d love to be a part of that. Or play with Sia. I haven’t seen her before but I reckon she kills it…

Rider-wise; if anyone can slip in some avocado Maki…I’m in.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say the songwriting is even more important than ever. There was a point when playing live and getting out there was more important, but I think it’s switched round again - especially in the age where social media seems to be ruling. The songs really have to come first and have to be really tight. And, also, don’t be afraid to collaborate!

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

Absolutely. I’m playing at Medicine at Royal Holloway University on 9th November; O2 Islington Academy on 29th November and Zetland in Huddersfield on 30th November. I’m doing some Xmas lights switch-ons as well in November/December. Type in ‘Bertie Scott Tour Dates’ into Google and follow me on Bandsintown for the full list.

How important is it being on the stage and playing your music to the people?

Very important. It keeps me going. I can’t imagine not having any shows to look forward to. Writing music and being in the studio is great too. I love both sides – but playing it live is very different (even if the music is exactly the same).

 IN THIS PHOTO: Emma McGrath/PHOTO CREDIT: CK Goldiing

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

If you haven’t already; check out Emma McGrath. We played a show together recently up in London and she’s killing the game. Her songwriting is so good and she’s got one of those voices you could listen to for hours. If you haven’t heard of her yet, you will soon.

Also; TS Graye. I came across her as she worked with a producer I know but her voice is wicked too and I’ve got her latest track basically on-repeat at home.

 IN THIS PHOTO: TS Graye

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

Sometimes. But, I if spend too much time away, I get an itch to crack on with stuff. Doing music is a 24/7, 365 thing. Once you’ve got the bug, it doesn’t stop. And, if it does, that’s the time to quit. Although, I have definitely learned you need to take a break sometimes as it’s good to reset your brain. My parents have got a little place up in Norfolk we sometimes go up to and, if you go out-of-season, there’s literally no one there in the town. It’s so good to rest and unwind there.

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).

Sucker Punch by Sigrid. Literally just came out the other day and it’s such a tune. Another track I’ve got on constant repeat on my Spotify playlist

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Follow Bertie Scott

Official:

https://www.bertiescott.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/bertiescottmusic

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/bertiescott

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bertiescott/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2m0xNVRx1tAHY3pfNXt7Ro?si=B3r5PXWmR9uBgwnF_Bh1Qw

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGQ4vVHiIaDqgqOl8rs2_A

INTERVIEW: Maggie Szabo

INTERVIEW:

Maggie Szabo

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THE wonderful Maggie Szabo…

has been telling me about her single, Don’t Give Up (she has just released the song, Wide Awake, alongside No Class), and how it came together. I ask her what we can expect from her upcoming E.P., Worthy, and which musicians are important to her; which three albums are important to her and how she got involved writing for other artists and T.V. placements.

Szabo talks about her plans going forward and how important it is being on the stage; what she does when she is not making music; the rising artists we need to check out and get behind – she picks a classic song to end the interview with.

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

Hey there! My week has been great! I literally just landed in Amsterdam and am writing this at my friend’s dining room table at their home close to Vondelpark.

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

My name is Maggie Szabo and I’m a recording artist and songwriter from a small town in Ontario, Canada but currently live in Los Angeles.

Can you reveal the story behind your single, Don’t Give Up? How did that come to be?

I was inspired by the lyric idea ‘don’t give up on love,’ and that’s where the song started. It’s a feeling we’ve all felt before and the lyrics and melody came very naturally. I wanted the lyrics to be really honest, which is where the first line of the verse came from: “Everyone knows this world isn’t perfect”. Once I finished recording the song, I knew that the video had to stand for something and I wanted it to stand for something I truly felt for.

I decided I wanted to make a video that shed light on transgender issues particularly trans kids. So many trans kids are being discarded by their family and are forced to live on the streets. I wanted the spirit of the video to genuinely portray the story of a teenager struggling with their gender identity.

It is from the E.P., Worthy. What sort of themes defines the E.P.?

I named it Worthy because I wanted the E.P. to feel empowering. I want it to be a reminder that everyone is worthy.

Which musicians do you count as idols? When did music come into your life?

There are too many idols to name! Music came into my life at an early. Some of the first artists that I fell in love with were Carole King and Tracy Chapman. I really look up to them because they are such amazing songwriters and artists as well. Their lyrics feel really honest to me, so I think they had a huge influence on my writing growing up. I also sang in a Jazz band when I was a kid so Etta James definitely made an impact on me. I also love Justin Timberlake, Sia and John Mayer.

You have written for other artists and for T.V. placements. Was there a moment that you knew you needed to concentrate on your own material?

My own music has always been a priority for me but I have always loved writing for other projects. Songwriting makes me happy, no matter what it is for. It’s a very different feeling having someone else sing my material other than me because it’s such a great compliment and I truly feel honoured when someone else wants to use my music for their own. I try and balance both equally because some of my best material wasn’t necessarily written with myself in mind; it was more about just writing a great song.

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

I have some collaborations coming out with some amazing D.J.s and I will also be releasing a Christmas song! I will also start planning ideas for a tour next year.

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

I thought about this for a good few minutes…and I honestly can’t say I have one specific memory that is my favourite. Performances, being in the studio and landing in L.A. when I first moved here are all memories that will stick with me forever.

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

Tapestry by Carole King; Continuum by John Mayer and Justified by Justin Timberlake mean a lot to me because they all contain some of my favourite material from my favourite artists. Nowadays, I don’t listen to full albums as much because now the music industry is more focused on singles - but I definitely spent a lot of time listening to those albums.

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

Definitely Justin Timberlake would be someone I would love to support! If I could support him, I don’t care what my rider would be (smiles).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you want to pursue a career in music, be willing to sacrifice everything you have for it.

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

I am playing on October 18th in Amsterdam as part of ADE and, on Nov. 4th, at the Palm Springs Pride!

How important is it being on the stage and playing your music to the people?

So important! I love feeling the energy of the audience in the room - it’s so inspiring. It’s also a great way for me to see what material people react to and that helps inspire my new music.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m sure you already know him, because he is mega-successful, but I have been listening to all of Chris Stapleton’s music. I work a lot in the EDM world, so some of the D.J.s and producers I work with in Europe aren’t super-familiar with his music, but I definitely recommend everyone listen to Stapleton’s songwriting; there is so much to be learned.

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

I love health and fitness as it keeps me feeling good and it helps me to stay mentally focused on my goals. When I’m not in the studio, you can often find me in the gym or running outside listening to 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).

It's Too Late - Carole King!

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Follow Maggie Szabo

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/allaboutmaggie

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/allaboutmaggie

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/allaboutmaggie/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/allaboutmaggie

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: Jay Miners

INTERVIEW:

Jay Miners

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I have been speaking with Jay Miners…

about her latest track, Something Alive, and the story behind it. The song’s video has just been released so I was keen to talk about the song and see where she is heading next. Miners discusses her path into music and which artists are important; how crucial N.Y.C. is a base and which rising artists we need to get behind.

Miners tells me about her upcoming E.P. and what she wants to accomplish by the end of the year; if there are any gigs coming up and which albums have influenced her most – I ask whether she is coming to the U.K. and how she spends time outside of music.

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

Hey, Sam! My week has been great, thanks! Working a lot and I’m adjusting to this weird fall transition happening in N.Y.C.

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

Sure! I’m Jay and I am what I like to say a songwriter singing her own songs. I grew up playing Classical piano, but fell in love with writing songs when I was about fourteen. It took me a while, but I started performing these songs on stage and found it exhilarating sharing them. Now, writing and performing music is my main work. I’ve just wrapped up recording an E.P., dropped the first single off of it and am gearing up to play some more shows.

Something Alive is your new single. Can you reveal the story behind the song?

I wrote Something Alive about a year ago and it’s inspired by the book I’m working on now. The story itself is about a young Asian-American woman who is both inspired and haunted by her mother, who was a renowned journalist and has presumably died. The book frames as a murder mystery, but it aims to explore the main character’s identity as an Asian-American woman today, very much trying to figure out who she is. It’s still in the works but its themes, as well as my own experience, definitely influenced this song and music video!

I understand an E.P. is coming along. What sort of themes and ideas influenced it?

Yes! The E.P. audio is done and we’re rolling it out with a few singles and some video/visuals - and the full thing will be released in January 2019. The record is very much centered around the theme of making, creating and art. These songs were written during a period of pretty big change in my life - I was in my first really committed relationship; I left a full-time job to focus on music and I was spending a lot of time alone just trying to write songs and stories.

I came to many realizations about my own work; like what inspires me and how to keep productive. That process - which is messy and uncertain and constantly changing but so, so fulfilling - definitely bled into these songs. 

Which artists do you consider to be role models and inspirations?

My parents’ C.D. collection definitely inspired me growing up; I gravitated towards classic singer/songwriters like Simon & Garfunkel, Joni Mitchell and Elton John. Vienna Teng had a great influence on me when I was a teenager - it was one of those things when you see someone who looks like you - doing the thing that you love to do, which was writing songs - and you think: ‘Hey, I could actually do this’. You don’t realize how much of an impact someone like that has on you until you start pursuing it, either.

How important is New York regarding your style, songwriting and passion? Do you get driven by the people around you?

New York definitely plays a part in my songwriting. When I was a teenager, all I wanted to do was write songs about New York, which is honestly what fuelled my entire first E.P. I love living in New York: there’s a way it makes you feel both lost and inspired at the same time. There’s also this hustling feeling you get from living here,where you feel like you always need to be doing something more. It keeps you on your toes, for sure.

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

Release two more singles off of the E.P., each accompanied by visuals (both art and video) that really enhance the meaning of the songs. Play more shows and connect with listeners and other artists. Write new music. And, hopefully, take a really long nap in between all that.  

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

My first show at Rockwood Music Hall in April 2017. One of the most heart-warming feelings I’ve ever had on stage was when I played the last song, Sunlight in Your Eyes, and at the end. I directed the audience to sing “oohs” with me. And they were all singing, and I was singing, and the room just filled up. There’s a video on YouTube of this. I’ll probably hold that memory close for a long while.  

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

Tough question! It changes every other day. For now; these are my most beloved:

Rumours (1975) by Fleetwood Mac

Legendary album. Taught me good melody lines and harmonies. Every track on this album is strong. I play it pretty often and I’m never sick of it. There isn’t a favourite track off this, but right now I’m really feeling You Make Lovin’ Fun.

Inland Territory (2009) by Vienna Teng

When this album came out, I was sixteen and I remember, one evening, I was lying on my bedroom floor with headphones on and just had this album on replay. I gravitate back to this album often. Each song is intricate, well-thought-out and has something to say. St. Stephen’s Cross and Stray Italian Greyhound are my top off the album – although, this rotates often. 

Dearest Everybody (2018) by Inara George

This has been a recent favourite. Inara’s voice is heavenly and each song is sweet and interesting. Crazy is my go-to off this album – so beautifully crafted, lyrically and musically. 

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

Probably Joni Mitchell - and I’ll ask her questions about songwriting all day. Lots of tea and the occasional birthday cake - even when it’s no one’s birthday.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I’m still a new artist myself and I’m still learning something new about the work and about myself every day. Two things I’ve learned that have really helped me stay on the ground are:

1) Keep working on your craft. I really had the opportunity earlier this year to focus on songwriting - I challenged myself to write a song every week for about three months (and I did). Most of those songs were thrown away (the good ones landed on the new E.P.). Scheduling myself to produce work continually was new, frustrating and exciting and it really gave me a chance to realize that there are so many ways for me to foster growth as a musician and writer.   

2) Have confidence in your work and don’t put anyone on a pedestal. Getting rejected is part of the game and getting a little discouraged by it is, too. But, get back up; move on to the next and keep fighting for your art…because you are your biggest advocate and you know you’ve made something worthwhile.

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

I’m planning to play a few N.Y.C. shows before the end of the year. All my show dates are available on my website at jayminersmusic.com/shows.

Might you come to the U.K. and play at some point?

I’d love to! That would be a dream. It probably won’t happen in the very near-future but I see it happening soon for sure.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Treya Lam

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Treya Lam’s album Good News is great. Joy Williams is dropping a new album soon. Artists that I’ve crossed paths with that are really great – Samantha Rise and Sarah Kang. Also; Alex Wong, who is working on his second album right now, is one I’m excited about that. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Joy Williams/PHOTO CREDIT: Andy Barron 

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

When I step away from music, I usually spend time with my family. If I get an evening alone to myself, I’ll snuggle on the couch and fall asleep watching Grey’s Anatomy. That’s the best.

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).

Geyser by Mitski. My recent obsession

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Follow Jay Miners

Official:

https://www.jayminersmusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/jayminersmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/jayminers

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/jayminers

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClBvLvlQQEaWdr_QfTQUW5A

INTERVIEW: Maria Kelly

INTERVIEW:

Maria Kelly

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THE last interview of the day…

finds me chatting with Maria Kelly about his current single, june, and what inspirations/ideas are behind her upcoming E.P., notes to self. The Irish-born, Berlin-based artist talks about life in the German capital and which musician, given the chance, she’d love to support – I ask which three albums are most important to her.

Kelly tells me about her tour schedule and which memory from her career so far stands in the mind; the rising musicians we need to follow and check out – she ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

Hello! I’m really good; thank you for asking. My week has been quite lovely. It’s been this beautiful autumn/winter-type weather here in Berlin at the minute and I am very much enjoying jumper season.

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

I usually describe myself as ‘Alternative-Folk’ - whatever that means – but, outside of genre, I just try to write introspective songs that allow for honest expression of feelings that I normally find quite difficult to express.

I’m also from Westport, a small town in the West of Ireland, but currently living in Berlin!

June is your new single. Is there a tale behind the song?

Specifically, yes, but that’s no fun to talk about…

In general; it’s about allowing yourself the space and time to deal with negative emotions that can be easily avoided. I wrote it when I first moved to Berlin and I was spending a lot of time alone. I found it quite difficult to lie to myself when I was alone, which led me to jot down this kind of angry, frustrated diary entry; full of things I wanted to say, but never did.

It is from notes to self. Can you talk more about that collection and how your move from Dublin to Berlin provoked the inspiration?

Notes to self quite quickly became the title because I had decided, as soon as I got to Berlin, that I would quite literally write notes to myself. Whether this was interesting phrases or thoughts I had gathered from other people; life lessons, pep talks telling myself to calm down or cop on… It allowed me to understand my mentality at the time and kind of ‘check in’ with myself - as you would with a friend. It allowed me to be honest with myself.

The rest of the songs on the E.P. capture other moments in time throughout the summer and deal with a general theme of ‘holding on; hiding behind and letting go’. That’s a lot of info to take in...But I think it will make more sense when it’s all out in the world. Haha!

How has it been moving from Ireland to start afresh in Berlin?! What are the main differences you have noticed?

It’s been amazing. It really has. I originally came for ‘just the summer’ but, after two weeks, I didn’t want to leave. It feels like a much slower pace of life here, which I love. There’s time and space to focus on things that you actually really want to do and it isn’t too expensive, so there’s not as much pressure to break your back just to pay the rent.

Getting to experience a new place and culture has definitely been great for my songwriting too - it feels like I have the confidence to push the boundaries a bit more than if I were at home.

Which musicians do you count as idols? When did music come into your life?

Regina Spektor, for sure; Lisa Hannigan; Lucy Rose; Gemma Hayes; Wallis Bird - there are specifically a lot of Irish female songwriters who I would of discovered when I was younger. I had always been surrounded by music growing up and started playing guitar and writing when I was about ten.

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

I’m excited to get my E.P. into the world and I would feel fulfilled if it just reached as many ears as it possibly can. I have some exciting shows too - some after the November tour dates - that I really can’t wait to share. But, I don’t have particular goals by the end of the year- I have had a very lucky year that I am grateful for and I am just looking forward to releasing notes to self and seeing what people think.

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

Most recently; getting to play in St. Michael’s Church for Other Voices Ballina alongside Villagers, Sam Fender and Maverick Sabre. I just couldn’t believe I was in that line-up.

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

Lucy Rose - Like I Used To

Regina Spektor - Begin to Hope

Dido - Life for Rent (my mum’s fave)

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

I would have a lil’ cry if I got to support Lucy Rose. That’d be a teenage dream come true. Ha.

My rider…that’s a fun question! Honey, lemon; a kettle…and then a very nice bottle of gin for after the show and a packet of six teacakes. Wild.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t rush it: spend time making music you really want to make. Let people help you. Be supportive of your music scene.

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

Yes - and I am so excited! I hit the road on 16th October with All the Luck in the World. I’ll be opening up for them here:

16.10...PAPIERSAALE, ZÜRICH (SWITZERLAND) 

17.10...SCHON SCHON, MAINZ (GERMANY)

18.10...GLEIS 22, MÜNSTER (GERMANY)

14.11...RÓISÍN DUBH, GALWAY (IRELAND)

15.11...KASBAH CLUB, LIMERICK (IRELAND)

16.11...THE ROUNDY, CORK (IRELAND)

17.11...THE GRAND SOCIAL, DUBLIN (IRELAND)

How important is it being on the stage and playing your music to the people?

In recent months, it has become one of my favourite aspects of being a musician. My songs are such personal things to me and, when I am really present in a performance, I feel very much back in the headspace of the time I wrote it. To get to do that, but in a room full of welcoming, attentive people is quite a strange healing process.

It’s then even better to realise that the song can then have a different meaning for each person in the room - allowing them to return to a particular headspace and to, hopefully, find healing in it too.

 IN THIS PHOTO: LAOISE/PHOTO CREDIT: Lucy Foster Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Loads. LAOISE, Ailbhe Reddy; All The Luck In The World, Good Ghost; Vampire Finch...and, if you haven’t hear of them; also loving Saint Sister, Lomelda and Haley Heynderickx.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Saint Sister/PHOTO CREDIT: Lucy Foster Photography

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

Writing is quite a chill experience for me but, other than music, I listen to a lot of podcasts; explore coffee shops, read; watch really crap YouTube videos…

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).

April Showers by Good Ghost - it’s beautiful (smiles)

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Follow Maria Kelly

Official:

http://www.mariakellymusic.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/mariakelly.mk/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/mariakellymusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mariakellymusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/mariakelly-1

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUqUrVi7mfDY9srzIy61KgA

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/15MkO1zSQcHtjObfkiEUaV

INTERVIEW: Sedric Perry

INTERVIEW:

Sedric Perry

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IT has been great chatting with Sedric Perry…

about artists who inspire him and how music came into his life. Perry discusses his latest track, Naked, and the rather sexy story that compelled it; whether there is going to be more material along the way, too. The Philadelphia-raised, Berlin-based artist tells me about a few albums that mean a lot to him – I ask, as a black artist, if he has found it harder to get a footing in the industry.

Perry gives some useful advice to emerging artists and tells me what he hopes to accomplish before the end of this year; how he spends his time away from music; which rising artist we need to get behind – he reveals whether he will be coming to the U.K.

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

It’s been a good week. Been making music, hanging with friends from out of town and getting a lot of love on the project so far.

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

Sure. I’m originally from Philly - so I started with R&B and Gospel. I moved to New York when I was seventeen and started working on Jazz and House tracks with friends. Now, I’m in Berlin making what I call ‘R&Bounce’. I haven’t had that many solo releases so this project is kind of like my introduction to the world!

Naked is your latest single. What is the story behind the song?

Me and my best friend have all these little phrases that we use to talk dirty about strangers. Like, if we see a guy pushing a stroller and he’s kind of attractive, I’ll say: “Oo; he made that baby”. Naked’s about this one time I went to this wild party they throw every two months in Berlin. I was making such intense eye contact with a complete stranger from the end of the bar that, by the time we got close to each other, neither of us could actually speak. We just laughed and said “hi”. The only thing that came to mind was ‘I really wanna see you naked’.

Which artists did you grow up around? Were you raised in a musical family?

I grew up listening to a lot of Gospel and Jazz; Whitney, Sade and The Winans. My grandfather was a guitarist and my uncle sang. He was so confident and sensual with his performances, I wanted to be him…then I found out about Usher and wanted to be him too.

As a young, black artist in music; do you take a lot of influence from Urban artists? Do you think it is harder for black artists to get recognised?!

Of course, I have a lot of love for our new generation. The range of music from artists like Daniel Caesar, 6LACK and GoldLink is so inspiring. I think, a few years ago, all music got funnelled into one genre and everyone was making EDM, i.e. ‘Dynamite’. Now; I feel like it’s spread out and anyone can do whatever they want. I’m sure there’s still prejudice, but I also notice that black artists on top have a reputation for pure excellence and innovation that you don’t see anywhere else these days.

What comes next in terms of material? Are you working on more stuff?

Constantly. I want my audience to grow with me, so the next thing they hear will have live instruments; different voices and more experimentation. I have a lot of new material coming soon!

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

I have a really wild idea for a music video. It’s probably going to cost a lot, so that’s a big goal for me. Beyond that, some performances, one more single and hopefully a cut with a major artist!

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

Yeah, actually. Haha. I’d just started singing. I had debilitating stage fright, so I always closed my eyes really tight whenever I sang. I was in church singing We Need a Word from the Lord and I just remember singing my entire little nine-year-old heart out. When I finished, I opened my eyes and saw the whole church standing and clapping. It was really sweet.

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

Some albums were with me through my craziest transitions in life. Lianne La Havas’ Is Your Love Big Enough? got me through my first adult break-up.

Choose Your Weapon by Hiatus Kaiyote is just legendary.

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill (Lauryn Hill) made me want to be super conscious in high-school and want to be intellectual about the way I love and create art.

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

It would be wild to go on a tour with Tyler, the Creator. I feel like we would get into so much trouble together. I’d use a live band - bass, keys; drums, guitar and backup singers and just go nuts. Of course, fog machines and good lighting, too.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Every individual path has its own rhythm. Sometimes, I get frustrated by not being as far along as I think I should be but that’s just comparison. The best thing I can say is put the time into it, the more you create; the more you’re inspired, the more you grow; the better you’ll feel about the process. You’ll be too grateful to compare yourself to anyone - especially in today’s world of social media.

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

No tour yet, but lots of shows here in Berlin! On November 9th, I’m doing Small Sessions Berlin. I’m really excited to present this music to everyone.

Might you come to the U.K. and play at some point?

Of course. I have a lot of friends in the U.K. It’ll happen very soon!

IN THIS PHOTO: Noname

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’m really loving Noname right now. She’s getting quite a bit of buzz and I think it’s well deserved.

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

Not too much lately, but I usually like to just go to nature and shut my mind off. I’m also obsessed with water so, if I can hit a pool, a lake or the beach after a long week, I’m good.

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).

Everyone should check out Lil Wayne’s verse on Let It Fly

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Follow Sedric Perry

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/SedricPerryMusic

Instagram:

 https://www.instagram.com/sedricperry/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/sedric-perry

INTERVIEW: Celia Palli

INTERVIEW:

Celia Palli

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THE terrific Celia Palli…

has been talking with me about her new single, Complicity, and what its story is. I ask about her upcoming album, Technicolours, and what we can expect; which artists and albums have made a big impression on her – Palli reveals how Nelly Furtado forms part of her favourite musical memory.

I was eager to learn why she recorded the new album in Brooklyn and why there has been a gap since her last release; whether there are tour dates coming up and which rising artists we need to get behind.

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

Hi! I’m good. It’s been so exciting to read the reviews for my single and to see the release come together. I’m celebrating inside (smiles).

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

I’m a singer, musician and composer. I’ve been singing for other artists for over ten years and, in 2014, I took the big step and released my first album. I took some time away to hone my craft, write better songs and that’s how this new Technicolours record was born.

 

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

I was alone one evening, playing the piano, and began playing a chord progression. I thought to myself: ‘What if the melody goes to the highest part of my range?’ I gave it a try and I was vibing with this song. I kept saying the word ‘complicity’ in the chorus but I didn’t have much besides that. Just a feeling. I really wanted the lyrics to be special so I asked my singer friend Nashlyn Lloyd to write lyrics with me. 

I knew I wanted them to be about the complicity between partners which, in Spanish, is something extremely positive. In Spanish, being able to appreciate complicity between partners means that they have a deep connection. When presenting the storyline to Nashlyn, and hearing the confusion in her voice; I quickly learned that in English it doesn’t mean the same thing. Hahaha! This misunderstanding worked to our advantage. We used the criminal connotation that complicity has in English to describe the deep connection.

Technicolours is your upcoming album. Are there particular themes and experiences that influenced the music? 

Yes, for sure. I spent the last three years in New York and the time there really left a mark. I went out to see local musicians a few times a week and something about their fearlessness dared me to try new ideas.  

It has been a few years since your debut album. Has it been a case of taking a break and finding a new sound (in regards the gap)?!

Yes, it has.

After my first album, I wanted to know what I could have improved on. I set up a few meetings with people in the industry that I respect and listened to what they had to say. The one comment that really stuck with me was that I could still take the songwriting to the next level. That was very empowering to know because it gave me direction. I didn’t set foot in the studio until I felt my writing had changed.

You recorded the new record in Brooklyn. What was it like being there and working with the production duo, LIKEMINDS?!

I met LIKEMINDS in Brooklyn where we did the pre-production, but we actually recorded the album in Montreal. And, I have to tell you; I have never worked with producers that were so synched with each other and so selfless. Their one and only goal is to elevate the music! I learned a lot watching them work together. 

What sort of music did you grow up around? Were you subjected to a wide range of sounds?

My parents would play vinyl every weekend, from morning to night. It was a ritual when I was young. We listened to The Beatles, Paul McCartney and Wings, as well as artists from my roots like Lluís Llach. These are my first musical memories. Growing up as a teen; I tried to listen to a variety of genres from Rock to Reggae. I think there’s greatness in each genre.

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

I want people to talk about and share my music. Word of mouth is the ultimate compliment for a musician. 

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

Yeeeeees. My first show with Nelly Furtado. I was twenty-four-years-old when I joined the band. Our first show was in Mexico City and we had had an audience of 150,000. I will never forget the feeling of happiness right before jumping on stage. 

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

Prince - Purple Rain

He poured his soul into those vocals and it reminds me to do the same.

Solange - A Seat at the Table

The sounds choices in production opened my mind and the visuals for the music videos were breathtaking. I find everything about this album inspiring. 

Any Beyoncé album!

I play her songs and dance like no-one’s watching!

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

Hahaha. That’s a fun question. Dark chocolate, mints; a kettle… chocolate, chocolate, chocolate. Wifi and a couch - because being on the road needs to feel the most like home.  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be prepared to be persistent against all odds and then some.

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

I currently have a few months of releasing music and promoting, so no dates yet. BUT, when I do have dates, I will post them on all my socials. So; hit that follow button to stay up to date (smiles).

 IN THIS PHOTO: Paris Monster/PHOTO CREDIT: Elizabeth Lauren West Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Paris Monster, Nick Hakim, Kate Kay Es.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Kate Kay Es

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

I unwind with wine. Haha! All jokes aside…I kind of do. At night, a glass of wine and silence is very much needed. Other than that, music is playing when I shower; when I cook, when I’m on the bus… 

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).

Paris Monster - The Cause of It All

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Follow Celia Palli

Official:

https://www.celiapalli.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/CeliaPalli/

Instagram:

 https://www.instagram.com/celiapalli/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/CeliaPalli

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/celiapalli

YouTube:

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

INTERVIEW: LeBarons

INTERVIEW:

LeBarons

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MY final interview before the weekend…

is with LeBarons as they talk about their current single, Long Highway. I was interested to know what the song’s story is and what sort of things they address in their upcoming album, Summer of Death. They tell me how they got together and what the music scene is like over in Toronto.

I ask whether they will come to the U.K. and play and whether they have favourite memories from their careers so far; which rising artist we need to keep a watchful eye out for; if they get time to unwind away from music – they each pick a song to end the interview with.

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

Hi, there! It’s been going great; thank you for asking. It was exciting to finally release our single after all the preparation we did for the album. It seems like it has been well-received.

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

We are LeBarons; an Alt-Country band from Toronto, Canada. We have been together for roughly four years. Members include: Chris MacDonald – Vocals, Acoustic; Megan Tilston – Vocals; Casey Irvin – Lap Steel; Evan Levy – Electric Guitar; Po Karim – Drums and John Dinsmore on Bass.

Long Highway is your new single. Is there a story behind the song?

When I was younger, I wanted to be a writer - I still do. Haha. One of my first ideas for a book was going to be about two kids that live in a small, removed town somewhere along the coast. It’s a town where the only place to go is down to the lake and is where all the kids hang out. The two protagonists would soon venture out on the road in search of something bigger. Along the way, they get mixed up in a murder, ultimately forcing them to make a decision to run or face up.

They choose to run and the road trip continues only in a different context. I decided I would write it into a song; I just couldn’t put the murder in there because I’m not as good as Nick Cave. But, I think I captured the vibe of how I wanted the book to feel. I would love to write it one day.

Everyone put a lot (of input) into it and had a lot of creative ideas that really furthered the vibe; our songs come out best when that happens.

It is from the upcoming album, Summer of Death (out on 2nd November). What sort of ideas and experiences inspired the song?

Roots would go back to my love of romantic style stories - anything Springsteen, S.E. Hinton/Rumble Fish; Kerouac - anything along those lines is where I always want to be.

How did LeBarons get together? What attracted you to one another?

I made a few Craigslist posts, which landed Casey and Evan; I married the other singer; met Po through my work and then we were recording at John’s studio, Lincoln County Social, and forced him to play bass with us.

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

I’m sure Po has it all planned out for us. Haha. No, really…the fact that we have achieved all that we have is a marvel in its own. These recordings have just made me want to record and document more; I just want to play and have a lot of fun with my band. They are so talented, insightful and the best bunch of musicians anyone could ask to play with. Writing songs with them feels really good.

You are based out of Toronto. Is there a good music scene there at the moment?

Toronto’s music scene has always been thriving. It’s very lively and stocked full of talent that stretch across all genres. You can go out any night of the week and find a show to go to. I feel fortunate to live in a city like this, definitely.

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

Chris: We’ve played so many fun shows it’s hard to choose. But, last winter, we played a show in my shop as a part of a block party/music crawl. The crowd was handpicked because of space limitations. It was intimate and the vibe was just amazing. That is a fond memory.

Casey: When Chris brings a new song to the rest of us, it usually comes with a shortlist of notes for the feel. He might say “make it like American Girl” or he'll slouch down in his knees, sit back in space and air-drum a few bars. I really love interpreting these songs as a band; we each start from a different interpretation of Chris’ notes but, after a few runs and things start to click, it's such a wonderful feeling.

Evan: We had some terrific guest musicians on the Summer of Death record including a horn section playing a part I had created (a first for me). It's really powerful experiencing something you have in your head become music in the air, then on the record. I'll remember that for a long time.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

 Chris: I can’t answer this…

Megan: (Shakes her head, ‘no’).

Po: If it’s a LeBarons record, it’s the new one Summer of Death. I think the songs are amazing and we had a lot of fun making it. We were able to branch out and explore some really creative ideas and sounds. We also took our time making the record - almost two years. That meant that we were able to spend time on each song and make them all sound unique based on the mood we were trying to create. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it.

Casey: Sweetheart of the Rodeo by The Byrds is definitely a key album for me. The first pedal steel line of You Ain't Goin’ Nowhere runs itself through my head on an almost daily basis. Really, though; anything that Gram Parsons had a hand in could be my answer to your question here.

Evan: Too many to mention…

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

I’m pretty fond of our hometown staples at the moment: give me Matt Mays or The Sadies and I’d be happy to follow them around for sure.

Rider? Hmmmmmm. I’m going to think long and hard about that. I’d take Springsteen, too.

Will we see you on the road this year at all?

I think we’ll definitely put a few miles into it when the dust settles.

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

Would love to. It’s a great place and haven’t been for a few years. Might be due for a visit and a pint!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I don’t know exactly...read books, try and stay off the phone.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Alun Piggins. He’s not new, but I have no idea why he isn’t famous. He’s one of the best songwriters in Toronto and, if you don’t believe it, you will when you here his song Steel Heart.

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

Music is the unwind...music and beer.

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

Chris: Living on the Moon - Adam Faucett

Megan: Bad Girl (Pt. I) - Lee Moses

Po: Appalachian Death Sigh - Bill Fox

Casey: Sleep with One Eye Open by Chris Thile and Michael Daves

Evan: 1952 Vincent Black Lightning - Richard Thompson

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Follow LeBarons

Official:

https://www.lebaronsband.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/lebaronsband

Bandcamp:

https://lebarons.bandcamp.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/lebaronsband

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/lebaronsband 

INTERVIEW: Heir

INTERVIEW:

PHOTO CREDIT: Portia Hunt

Heir

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THANKS to Tom from Heir…

PHOTO CREDIT: Portia Hunt

for chatting about the band’s new track, Restless, and what its story is. I was eager to know what comes next for the guys in terms of gigs and material and how they found one another; which rising artists we should keep an eye out for – Tom tells me how he and the band relax away from music.

Tom talks about the music he was raised on and how he feels looking back at a busy and exciting year for Heir; which one music memory sticks in the mind; what he/the guys hopes to achieve by end of this year – Tom selects a couple of cool songs to end things on.

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

Hi, man. What’s it to you?! Joking. It’s been alright, thanks. Currently talking to you via Microsoft Word 2017 with a mint tea.

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

I’m Tom from Heir. We’re a Pop band from Leeds, U.K. Sam, Tom; Harry, Ste and Samuel – the musical equivalent of The Teletubbies.

How did Heir start life? When did you all find one another?

We are from all over the U.K. but met in Leeds for uni. We started playing tunes together and, after a couple of years, realised that we got on alright and all enjoyed it (yes; that took two years). We then decided to form as Heir in 2015.

Restless is your new track. Is there a story behind the track?

Restless is a tune that we wrote in Northumberland a couple of years ago now. It’s a song about being settled in your restlessness and overthinking. Obviously, with us being in the period of life post-uni, it’s something quite fresh on the brain.

Might there be more material coming this/next year?

Oh yeah, baby…

PHOTO CREDIT: Portia Hunt

Last year was a busy and exciting one for you! How do you see the year looking back? How has this year fared in comparison?

Last year was bloody ace! Playing Reading and Leeds was fab and the big support gig at Scarborough Open Air Theatre were moments that you don’t think you’ll get early on as a band so it was a really great learning experience.

This year has been a little more focused on recording and writing - loads in the pipeline ready to put out into the world from Restless onward. Very buzzed to get it all going!

 PHOTO CREDIT: Charlène Dosio

If I were to travel back to your childhoods; what sort of music would I find in your collections?

I can only speak for myself as the lads would probably not be too thrilled if they were also associated with The Chuckle Brothers’ cassette. That’s actually not a joke: I can still remember one of the tunes in full to this day.

I was actually quite fortunate to be brought up in a household that loved a lot of amazing songwriters. Most of our car journeys were spent listening to Eagles, Billy Joel; Carole King and Supertramp. Those, along with the She’s the One (single) by Robbie Williams were the highlights for sure.

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

I’d like to be able to beat my long jump P.B.

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

I think my fondest memory with the band is our second visit to Belgium and Holland. We go out once or twice a year to play some stripped-back shows. I just love the fact that we crammed all of our stuff into my parent’s people carrier and roof box. We must have looked like the least Rock ‘n’ roll band in the world (which we are, to be fair).

Great people, great fun.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Again…I don’t want to speak for the other lads but, when I was getting into music and working out why I loved the songs that I loved, I listened to The Stranger – Billy Joel a lot. That’s probably one of the main albums of my earlier years as a musician. Can’t say that it means the most to me now but it was certainly important to me when I was younger.

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

Band: HAIM; Rider: seven-a-side football pitch; my mum’s homemade Sunday roast and Tropicana - because, times are tough at the moment and I miss it (that’s not too much to ask, is it?!).

PHOTO CREDIT: Portia Hunt

Might we see some tour dates coming up? Where might we be able to catch you play?

Yeah! We’ll be doing a big headline next year. More recently, we are playing the following:

9th October - Hull

20th October - London

21st October - Halifax (acoustic)

30th October - Exeter

More T.B.C.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

We’d be asking them…

 IN THIS PHOTO: Wild Front/PHOTO CREDIT: John Almando 

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

At the moment, I have been really enjoying Wild Front, Westerman and Greatest Hits.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Westerman

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

Absolutely. Some seriously good board games going on in our house - and a few of us play football. I know that Sam is a keen cyclist too. Thanks for your concern, m’dear.

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

Make You Feel - Wild Front

Easy Money - Westerman

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Follow Heir

PHOTO CREDIT: James Ward 

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/heirtheband

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/heirtheband/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/heirtheband

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/heirtheband

INTERVIEW: Megan Lara Mae

INTERVIEW:

Megan Lara Mae

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THE fabulous Megan Lara Mae…

has been giving me the skinny regarding her new single, From the Ashes, and how the song came to be. I was keen to know whether more material was coming and which artists have inspired her to this point – she tells me what Brighton is like a base and how inspiring it is.

Mae reveals who she’d support on tour given the chance and recommends a rising artist we need to get involved with; whether there are going to be gigs coming up; which musical memories she counts as the most precious – I was keen to know how songs come together and whether she has a songwriting process.

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

Hi. My week has been great, thanks! My band and I had our debut London headline gig on Saturday at The Finsbury. The main support was Dutchkid - it was their first-ever live gig but they were insane and, if that’s what they’re like now, then we should expect crazy things from them by the New Year!

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

So. My name is Megan Lara Mae and I’m an unsigned Electro-Pop singer-songwriter. I’m originally from Birmingham but I moved down to Brighton a few years ago to start studying (I absolutely love Brighton and have no desire to move at the moment…). I was brought up learning and playing Classical music and within church choirs - I like to draw on this, together with my contemporary music training. My songs aim to have an uplifting and empowering yet sentimental vibe that can hopefully identify with many people.

I would say it’s for fans of Sigrid, Florence and the Machine and Bat for Lashes.

From the Ashes is your new track. Is there a story behind the song?

There is indeed...

So. It’s reflective of my own story but, essentially, the song carries the message of rising from a dark place and going into the light, while never dwelling on the past. So, for me, I had an experience in my life that hurt me pretty bad and put me in a really dark place and I could’ve kept following that path for myself, getting darker and darker… but, instead of dwelling on it and letting that define me, with a lot of help from some amazing friends, I was able to rise from it and be at peace with the situation. I hope that From the Ashes can help other people in similar situations.

Might we see more material next year? What are you working on at the moment?

Oh, yes! So From the Ashes is the final song to come out from my current project - my debut E.P., Into Daylight. But, my goal is to make everything I do a learning process so that the next thing is always bigger and better than the previous thing…so, at the moment, I am currently producing and finishing writing some brand-new material ready for a new project to come out in 2019…keep your eyes peeled!

How do songs come together for you? Do you set time aside to write or is there a particular process?

There’s no particular process. I used to fear writing lyrics, as I’d told myself I couldn’t do them, so I leaned on building my creative process for the melodic side of things. But, since moving to Brighton, I’ve loved going for bike rides and walks along the seafront, which is just the perfect time for me to think (and probably overthink) – but, usually my best lyrics come from these times. So, now, I try to go on a few solo bike rides and walks every week.

Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there a moment you knew it was the career for you?

My first-ever musical moment was when I was six-years-old. The teachers at primary-school clearly saw something in me and gave me the lead role in the junior musical - I was the Frog in Frog’s Spring Party (so much fun!). From then, music was a process and I just constantly grew a love and desire to be involved in it more and more and I eventually studied classical flute, piano and voice all up to grade 8.  

We went on a family holiday to Corfu when I was twelve and my parents encouraged me to sing in all the karaoke bars. My favourite song to sing was Don’t Know Why by Norah Jones. When we were there, we met someone who asked whether I wrote my own music. With limited life experiences to draw from at age twelve, when I got home I tried putting together the piano and my voice and actually started improvising to films that I’d put on silent and out came some songs. By fifteen-years-old I was performed my original music and shows and festival across the U.K. and that’s when I looked back and knew that it was a career for me!

Which artists do you consider to be role models and inspirations?

I’m inspired by the works of legends, including Elton John with his heavy piano-led songs and Kate Bush, whose voice is just incredible! I love Kate Bush’s crazy attitude and sweeping melodies and this is has definitely become a feature in my own music. But, I’m also influenced by lots of current artists…the ‘Pop’ genre is massive so I try to listen to so many artists in this style by engaging with Pop playlists on Spotify. Some specific artists that I adore though include Sigrid (all her songs are hits!); Rae Morris (she just oozes ‘Cool-Pop’) and Lorde (everyone knows how brilliant her stuff is).

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

My 2018 goal was to release my debut E.P. I started recording and producing the tracks back in January and the first single off the E.P. came out in April 2018. Since then, I’ve been dropping tracks from the body of work and by the end of the year I hope to have achieved this goal. I’d also hope to have everything ready for the next project by the time the year comes to close. I’m just loving being in the creative head-space at the moment!

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

I have two…

Firstly, in summer 2017, I had the crazy privilege of playing a few sets at Glastonbury Festival. While it wasn’t a big stage or anything, just the opportunity to play at one of the most renowned festivals in the world was mind-blowing. The feedback was incredible and I’m praying that I get a similar opportunity to play at Glastonbury 2019!

Secondly, as I’ve said I aim to write songs with uplifting messages that can identify with audiences. Earlier this year, I released my first single from the E.P. called Caribou. The song is about not letting things chase us down but to persevere in these times. Just after releasing it, I got a message from someone saying how they’d been listening to the song during their mornings to help them not feel down but to encourage them to keep going, despite what their life’s circumstances was telling them. This is exactly what I want from my music - not to just release music, but to make a difference to people’s livelihood.

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

Sigrid! She is killing the game at the moment! To support such an awesome artist who has been noticed for her credible Pop songwriting would be an opportunity-and-a-half!

And, my rider…I’m quite a simple person (I like to think anyway). Before any gig I love having a hot drink of honey and lemon, so that’s pretty much all I’d request. I asked my guitarist what he would want too (his expectations are clearly way bigger than mine) - he would ask for a PS4 with a T.V. screen, probably with additional driving seats for specific games and then a coffee machine (we are Brightonians and therefore need good coffee).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

This industry isn’t easy but, if you’ve got dreams and ambitions and are clearly gifted to make it as an artist or musician, then absolutely don’t let other people discourage you. Society tells us we must have ‘proper jobs’ or work at desk or whatever, but some of us just don’t function like that. I don’t believe we’ve been gifts in music to let those gifts become dusty and eventually forgotten.

If music is your brick in life, then put that brick in the bucket first; then you can add your smaller stones (e.g. money) and then the sand (i.e. all the little details in life)…don’t add the sand first or else there’s no room left for the brick. This was recently my advice to myself and it’s made such a difference in my approach to my music career – so, I hope that makes sense and can be helpful to others.

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

My next gig is in Southampton on 7th November at Heartbreakers with my gorgeous band and we will be supporting a very cool upcoming Indie-Pop duo called Deco. Then; I’ll be heading to my hometown of Birmingham on 7th December to play at the Cuban Embassy, so if you’re in one of the two cities, then please come along! (There is also potentially a little support tour lined up for the New Year with a super-cool artist, but that’s all hush hush at the moment…).

 IN THIS PHOTO: Dutchkid

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Absolutely. Please go check out Dutchkid! As I said; they were insanely good when they supported us on Saturday in London. They are an Indie-Pop band with some killer-catchy tracks and I would not be surprised if they go massive very soon! Also; a Brighton-based artist called Lydia Evangeline - the voice on that girl is from another world. I’d describe her as Power-Pop, but she also has the ability to break chains with her lush intimate voice.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Lydia Evangeline

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

While I’m not brilliant at unwinding; I always make an effort to have one complete rest day per week. I usually do this at the beginning of the week so that I’m working from my time of rest, rather than resting from working myself into the ground. I love to channel my creativity into other things like making tote bags or finding some cute activity on Pinterest and seeing if my close friends want to try it out with me. I’m also a bike ride lover and get such a thrill from cycling to new places and seeing what else there is beyond what I already know.

Finally; who can’t unwind to a great Netflix series…?

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

I’ve mentioned them quite a few times now: but Dutchkid are epic so I’m going to choose my favourite of their songs, Glow

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Follow Megan Lara Mae

Official:

https://www.meganlaramae.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MeganLaraMae

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/MeganLaraMae/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/MeganLaraMae

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/megan-lara-mae

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0p7Hw9CLgjO2mEgrwgJ0JM

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfNcFbNUOAoBT-iCyJbCaZQ

INTERVIEW: Sam Dickinson

INTERVIEW:

Sam Dickinson

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IT has been good to speak to Sam Dickinson…

as he has been talking about his new single, Wild Sun, and revealing its story. The songwriter lets me into his world and explains what music truly means to him; what we will get from his upcoming E.P., From the Glass House: Part One, and which artists have made an impression on him through the years.

I wanted to know whether there are going to be any gigs approaching and which three albums are most important to Dickinson; which rising artists we need to get behind; the advice he would provide to approaching artists – he ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

Hey! I’m good, thanks. It’s been a busy week in fairness; some long days. I have been gearing up to release my first new music in a long time. I forgot how much you actually have to do! But, I wouldn’t have it any other way.

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

Of course! My name is Sam Dickinson and I am a singer-songwriter from Gateshead, which is just outside of Newcastle upon Tyne…and, yes, I have the accent! I released my debut album back in 2013 and that was a concept album; recreating the sounds of Stax and Motown with some big horn sections and big vocals. It was so much fun to record. I toured the U.K. with it and received some amazing airplay too. It was all self-financed, so you can imagine the pressure that came with that but, you know, I look back now and think: ‘Wow, you really did well!’. Although, at the time, I would constantly think I could do more, do better.

This time around, I took my time with new music and went with a different sound and vibe.  To be perfectly honest; just as the album was taking off - which was a year after its initial release -, I started suffering from anxiety and depression. Everything became just too much. So, I halted everything for a year or two. During that time, I went into radio, presenting my own show - something I still do. I just needed time to work out who I am and why I had these feelings. So, when it came to working on new music, I thought I’d take a different approach in sound and what I wanted to talk about.

Wild Sun is your new single. Can you talk about the story behind it?

Wild Sun is one of those feel-good tracks where you’ve come to the realisation that the person you’re with is no good and you just don’t want to deal with it anymore. We’ve all been there. You have that moment where you stop feeling like a failure in love and you say to yourself:  ‘What the hell am I doing with him?’. It’s the weight lifted off your shoulder moment: “We could try to start again, we could say that we are friends, but we’ve broken down” the song says.

It’s true.

It is from the E.P., From the Glass House: Part One. How much of your own emotions, experiences and struggles define the songs?

Oh, completely! Isn’t that when music is at its most powerful?! We can have similar experiences as each other and that’s why and how people relate to music.

How powerful and important is music regarding well-being and how you can strive as a person? Does it hold a lot of power and comfort?

Massively. You know, when I was suffering from anxiety and depression - and I still do to some degree. However, I was sitting with my counsellor, really digging deep and she said to me: “Sam, why don’t you try writing music again? It could really help you”. I thought she was talking rubbish to be honest but I tried it. I worked on a song called Therapy which is from a project coming next year and it just felt right. So, from a songwriter’s perspective, you can get so much off your chest and feel good but, when I listen to the music, I want to connect too. I feel like I’ve done that with my new music.

There’s a track on From the Glass House: Part One where I talk about my struggles. It’s my favourite and I’m so proud of it. I start by explaining why I appeared to quit music then I talk about how I feel now, looking back: “You won’t believe me now, but you should feel so proud/of everything you have done, life is there to be won”.

There’s also a song called All We Are on the E.P. It’s in acoustic form as the full version will be the next single and the first off From the Glass House: Part Two. I wrote it with my friend Hattie Murdoch after we watched a friend of mine, who is a drag queen, be vilified on national television and social media. She’s come back stronger and I sing about how we’re all human beings; we need to come together and work together - especially in this era of Brexit and Trump.

Were you raised around a lot of great sounds? What sort of music did you grow up around?

Oh, my god! Yes! Aren’t we all influenced by what our parents listened to?! On the way to school in the car, I would listen to Gabrielle, Simply Red; Lighthouse Family, Beverley Knight; Everything But the Girl. I could go on but those artists have shaped my music and the sound I have. We used to listen on cassette! I think they’re starting to make a comeback. Haha.

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

The new E.P. will be released and I’ll start working on the release of the second. I just hope so many people get to hear it and enjoy it.

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

I have three...

The first was hearing my music on the biggest radio station in the U.K., BBC Radio 2. It was like I was on the verge of making it; I am so proud of that. The second was playing in front of 30,000 people at Newcastle Pride and the final was one of the smallest gigs I’d done. We were in a tiny venue in Newcastle but the vibe was electric. I was just relieved I didn’t have to pay for the broken chairs from people dancing on them all night!

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

Gabrielle – Rise

This album is a lesson in sheer and utter class. Her heart had been broken; the father of her child was convicted of a hideous crime and she could have released an album slagging him off. She didn’t. She had class and that says a lot.

Anastacia – Freak of Nature

This album is a lesson in self-empowerment and has some amazing songs on it.

Aretha Franklin – Greatest Hits

Need I say any more?! It’s Aretha.

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

Literally, any of the artists I’ve previously mentioned. Although, I’m sure it’d have been Aretha if I’d been asked this six months ago.

My rider wouldn’t be crazy: just some food and a nice New Zealand or South African Sauvignon Blanc.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep going! Keep plugging. Believe in your brand and always question if it’s the best you can give. With hard work comes success, so get to work.

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

My tour will be announced in the New Year for March 2019. So, follow me on social media for that announcement.

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

I love it. It’s a bit like radio where people can get to know you and, after the show, you get to know them. Music connects so many people. At my shows, there’s a group of people who come to every show together and they met because of my music. I love seeing them at each show, enjoying themselves. I also love seeing new people at shows; you can tell at the beginning they don’t know what to expect then the music does the talking.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Beth Macari

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My friend Beth Macari. You should also check out HATi.

 IN THIS PHOTO: HATi

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

Not a huge amount, if I’m honest. I usually feel guilty if I’m not working. Is that the classic workaholic sign?! I do enjoy eating out and a nice wine. I also work out to de-stress and unwind - crazily, it works!

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).

Beth Macari – Clone

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Follow Sam Dickinson

Official:

http://samdickinsononline.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/SamDickinsonOnline/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/samdickinson

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/samdickinsonmusic

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/27mxie9bsTRnNDUwtyVDop?si=PM8XAzZiQU-q0LijGM_cZw

INTERVIEW: Derek Sallmann

INTERVIEW:

Derek Sallmann

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I am ending the day by speaking with Derek Sallmann…

COVER DESIGN: Brennan Elias Alban-Springer 

about his latest single, Love, Future You. He reveals whether there is more material coming and what the inspiration behind his latest track is; whether there are particular albums/artists that have affected and driven him – Sallmann highlights a rising artist that is worth some time and we should be checking out.

Sallmann discusses when music came into his life and which artist he’d support given the chance; if there will be tour dates coming up and whether the American will come to the U.K. and perform at some stage.

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

Hey! I’m doing well and I hope you’re having a great week too! I’ve been busy planning out everything for the single release for my song, Love, Future You.

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

Definitely! My name is Derek Sallmann and I’m a twenty-three-year-old singer/songwriter based out of the Waukesha/Milwaukee area. I graduated from Wisconsin Lutheran College in 2017 with a Biology degree and I was a commuter, so I was able to work on my music and play shows when I wasn’t at school. Biology and music are my two biggest passions.

I released my first album, All Seasons, in 2016, which was composed of ten tunes produced by Tony Schueller of Anton Music Productions in Lannon, WI. After I released that album, I did a lot of co-writing and wrote a lot of different songs - over sxity in the past year alone. I got connected with producer Bill Lefler (Ingrid Michaelson, Dashboard Confessional; Joshua Radin) and we did one song remotely with me in Wisconsin and him in Los Angeles. I sent him the demo of a song and he liked it; he produced the track and sent it back to me to put the vocals on. It was a lot of back and forth, but that’s just kind of the nature of working long-distance like that. Since the track went so well, I decided to travel to L.A. to work with Bill in person on a few more tracks on the E.P.

The E.P. will be titled Love, Future You (the same title as the single) and will be composed of five tracks total. I would describe them as ‘Indie-Pop’ and each song definitely has its own personality. The official release date for the E.P. is December 14th, 2018.

Can you reveal the story behind your latest single, Love, Future You? How did it come together?

Totally! Love, Future You was the first song I co-wrote with my friend Kyler England and we wrote it over the Internet. I had been through this really bad break-up and we talked a lot about how, when you’re in a situation like that, nothing feels like it’s going to get better…even though you know in your heart that it will. We channelled those feelings into this idea of a love-letter from your future-self to your present-self; telling you that everything is going to be alright.

When Bill and I were in the studio we actually sampled a bird call in the song (I love birds and my brother and I run an educational birding show on YouTube called Badgerland Birding) which I thought was really cool. The track came out great and when we were in the studio we thought it would be cool to have Kyler sing background vocals on it. She agreed and added them in later on and it really helped pull the track together.

Might we see more material next year perhaps? How far ahead are you looking?

The rest of the E.P. will be released by the end of this year but, yeah, I’d love to be able to release new music on a consistent basis. I love songwriting and turning an idea into a piece of art. I think the whole process is incredible.

Do you recall when music came into your life? Was there a moment you knew it was the career for you?

My parents are both very musical and my dad taught me how to play guitar when I was thirteen-years-old so music has always played a big role in my life. When I was just learning how to play guitar and sing I remember hearing the song Smooth by Carlos Santana and Rob Thomas and thinking how amazing it would be to perform that song one day. It just really pulled me in and made me want to be a performer.

It’s amazing how much influence one song can have on your life. That was the moment I knew I wanted to be a singer and performer and it took a lot of work from that moment to get to where I am today.

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

One of my main goals is to get the new E.P. to chart on iTunes. People can help with that by pre-ordering it. I’ll be posting on my website www.dereksallmann.com and my social media pages when it’s available for pre-order.

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

Oh, man; there are so many good memories I have from music. One of the main ones is playing on the U.S. Cellular Connection Stage at Milwaukee’s music festival, Summerfest, with a full band. It was my first full-band show and it was a dream of mine to perform on a big stage at Summerfest. One day, I’d like to be a headliner there.

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

That’s a tough question...

Third Eye Blind - Third Eye Blind

It definitely has had a big impact on me because I listened to it a lot growing up. If I hear any of those songs it brings me right back to my childhood.

Yourself or Someone Like You - Matchbox Twenty

It is really influential to me as well. Matchbox Twenty was one of the bands where I just started liking every song I heard by them. I was a big fan of the song 3AM and listened to that whole album a lot.

I’ve also really enjoyed Lauv’s i met you when i was 18. (the playlist)

All the songs are so honest and catchy and I think it’s inspiring that he produced a lot of them himself.

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

Good question. There are so many options. I think I would have to say Ed Sheeran. I’m a big fan of his music and work ethic and he seems like a really fun guy to hang out with.

I think the rider (if it really can be anything) would include having puppies on the tour bus at all times; allowing me to talk about animal conservation at some point in the show and unlimited bottles of raspberry iced tea.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would tell them to write as much as possible and be obsessed. It’s easy to get distracted by what everyone else is doing, but do your best to stay focused on working hard every day and creating goals you can achieve on a daily basis. It’s definitely a grind and it’s important to keep at it.

Also; keep in mind that there’s not really anyone who is successful because of just luck. Those who are at the top (99% of the time) put in the work to get there. It’s not a mistake, even if it looks like it. Just keep in mind that if you put in the work you will get to where you want to be.

There’s that phrase “Everybody wants to be the beast, but not everybody wants to do what the beast does.” I think that’s a big part of it. Everybody wants to be successful, but not everybody wants to put in the work. Put in the work, show-up every day and don’t give up. 

Also, don’t let other people discourage you. Be able to take criticism but assess whether it’s valid or not before moving forward. There are always going to be people who don’t agree with what you’re doing and that’s okay. Surround yourself with other hard-working musicians. That way, you can all motivate and encourage each other.

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

I have a few shows coming up to finish off the year but most of them are private events. I’m taking part in a songwriting retreat at the end of October and will be planning an album release party in honor of the new E.P. I’ll be posting on www.dereksallmann.com about the date for that as well as my other social media pages along with a few other tour dates I’m finalizing at the moment.

Will you come to the U.K. and play at some point?

I’d like to. I don’t have any plans to go there on my tour schedule at the moment but the future is wide open right now.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Kris Angelis

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Definitely! My friend Kris Angelis just released a new E.P. that Bill Lefler actually produced as well. I really enjoy listening to her music and she has a great voice. Check her out.

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

I do actually. I work with an organization called The Friends of the Mukwonago River and part of my job is leading paddle events, bird walks and hikes. Additionally, my brother and I run the Badgerland Birding YouTube channel and I run my own called Badgerland Fishes. A lot of the work we do for the channels involves going out and exploring, fishing; snorkelling and other fun activities that help me relax and recharge.

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

Sweet! I’d recommend Kris Angelis’ song, Stained Glass (smiles)

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Follow Derek Sallmann

Official:

http://www.dereksallmann.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/dcsallmann

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/DerekSallmann

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dereksallmann/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmPvk2U33gDHe6JEMDFiesg 

INTERVIEW: Tori Cross

INTERVIEW:

Tori Cross

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IT has been good to catch up with Tori Cross…

as she tells me about her new single, Looking Up. She reveals how she came to work alongside XamVolo and what we can expect from her forthcoming E.P., Growth. I ask whether there are a few albums that mean a lot to her and which artists she counts as influences – Cross reveals plans for gigs and what she wants to achieve by the end of the year.

The songwriter tells me whether she gets time to unwind away from music and, as a Birmingham-based artist, what the scene is like there; if she has any advice for artists coming through; which rising artists we need to get behind – Cross ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

Hi, Sam. I’m sound, thank you. I just got back from London for a few days seeing friends and had a bit of a chill out!

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

My name’s Tori and the music I write is Soul/R&B. I’m from Birmingham but have been living in Liverpool for five years. I went there to study music at uni and loved it so much I decided to stay! In my final year at uni I met XamVolo, who recently toured with Paloma Faith, which is such a madness. I backing sang for him for a while until I decided to take my solo stuff seriously and focus all my time on that.

Looking Up is your new single. What is the story behind the song?

The whole tone of the song is intended to be sarcastic. I wrote the song based on my absent father who I spoke to on the phone when I was little but never met. I basically wrote the song as a first and last song written about him since he has such little relevance to my life yet, in the same vein, so much. I’m really pleased with how it came out because it feels really powerful. My stepdad has been an amazing father figure in my life, so I’m really lucky that I haven’t missed out on that.

It is from your forthcoming E.P., Growth. Are there particular themes that inspired the songs? Has it been fun to record the songs?

I was having writer’s block for so long and was confused about the direction I wanted my music to go in but one evening something just clicked and I wrote two of the four songs on this E.P. (in one night). I had such a clear idea of how I wanted these songs to sound so I worked with a couple of producers until I worked with TeeSoulful who produced, basically, what was inside my head.

For this track, I decided to work with XamVolo who captured the power needed behind this song perfectly! The common theme within all the tracks is the strength within imperfect situations. They are situations I have been through and grown though and I hope that other people can relate.

In terms of musicians; what sort of stuff are you into? Who were you raised on?

At the moment, my musical rotation is mainly around RAY BLK, Mahalia and Ariana Grande. I’m also loving Hozier’s new E.P., especially the track Nina Cried Power. When I was younger, I was obsessed with Amy Winehouse (still am); I love that she literally wrote whatever she was thinking and believed. She wasn’t concerned about outside opinions which I really admire. As well as Amy, I listened to loads of Corrine Bailey Rae, Lianne La Havas and Gabrielle Aplin. My mum played a lot of jazzy and Reggae/Ska stuff when I was growing up, mainly people like Ella Fitzgerald and UB40.

How do songs come to you? Will you set time aside to write or do you let the muse strike?

I do try to take time just to sit down with my guitar specifically to write, but almost all of the times I do I come up with nothing. Nothing that’s any good anyway! I usually just have to keep my phone close to me in case I do come up with something so I can record it onto my voice notes. It’s usually whilst I’m doing something else - having a conversation or watching a programme - that ideas come to me. Often, I will sit down to learn a cover and that can spark a new idea for a song.

You are a Birmingham-born artist. How has the music scene changed there the last few years? Is there a varied and growing culture there?

I’ve actually only just moved back to Birmingham, so I’m trying to work out the music scene and make new connections - but there is a buzz in the city and a sense of excitement. I feel like Birmingham musicians are starting to get heard and a lot of the underground artists are coming into the mainstream. I popped into town the other day and there was a massive graffiti and Hip-Hop festival at the Custard Factory. There’s always something going on!

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

I feel like it’s nearly over. Haha. But, I want to gain a bigger fanbase and get some festivals booked in for next year.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Jay Chow

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

Probably recording my music video for the next single, Woman. It was the first time I’d done anything like that so it was a massive learning experience. I also got to work with some of my really good friends so it was so much fun! The visual side of everything in music is really new to me so it’s always an exciting challenge.

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

Number one has got to be Corinne Bailey Rae – Corinne Bailey Rae

It really gets me. Me and my mum used to blast this out of the car with the windows down in the summer. I had the little lyric book that came with the C.D. and knew the album back to front. I think I still do! I was eleven when this came out and each song is still so vivid in my mind.

Second would be Amy Winehouse’s album Frank

I think this is her best album. It feels more honest and more ‘Amy’. I feel like she was pushed to make her second album safer so she held back in places. The whole album is vulnerable and it encourages me to be the same with my own music.

Finally; a newer album which I couldn’t live without is A Song for Every Moon by Bruno Major

I think it’s so beautiful. The harmonies make me tingle and the groove makes me melt. It’s made up of twelve songs because he wrote and produced a song per month, hence the name. I think it’s a really interesting way to work. This album can calm me down no matter what mood I’m in.

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

Jessie Ware! I think she’d be a good laugh and I could learn a lot from her. She seems like a really grounded artist. Plus, I love her music and am obsessed with her podcast, Table Manners.

My ideal rider would be lemon and ginger tea, honey; Gü Key Lime Pie Cheesecake and a bottle of gin and tonic! Though, to be honest, I’m happy with a few Coronas. Haha!

 PHOTO CREDIT: Karen Cross

Can we see you tour soon? Where are you playing?

I’ll be performing at The Victoria in Birmingham on 27th September; Jacaranda Phase One on 17th October and PizzaExpress Live Holborn in London on 18th February 2019. Any new dates I’ll be posting on my socials!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Literally, just keep going. It’s such a hard slog and you need to be your own biggest fan. Also…be nice!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Jalen N’Gonda/PHOTO CREDIT: Tom Pallant Photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

My favourites at the moment are Jalen N’Gonda and XamVolo.

 IN THIS PHOTO: XamVolo/PHOTO CREDIT: @yvonneschmedemann

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

I love to watch crime series and documentaries. I’m watching The Bodyguard at the moment and I’m obsessed. I’m also watching Killing Eve which is so good! I recommend them both. It’s the only time I get to switch off from music to be honest but, to me, that’s a good thing!

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

I’d like to play RAY BLK’s new song, Empress. I think it’s such an anthem and a great message for girls everywhere. Thanks, Sam!

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Follow Tori Cross

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/toricrossmusic/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/toricrossmusic

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/toricrossmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/2O6IFcaKlJL1HnX9pxSf3S

INTERVIEW: Dry Reef

INTERVIEW:

Dry Reef

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I have been setting time aside to speak with Dry Reef…

as they tell me about their new single, Start It Up. I ask what the story behind the song is and whether there will be more material coming along - their album, Daychange, is also out and a good chance to investigate the band in-full. I ask how the guys got together and what sort of music they were inspired by growing up – they recommend an approaching act to watch out for.

I wanted to know if there are any tour dates booked and which albums mean the most to them; how their music has evolved since the start and what Philadelphia is like as a base.

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

We are pretty excited, honestly. Our week has been busy but fun busy.

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

I'm Pat, bassist and vocalist; I'm Collin, lead guitarist; I'm Charles, guitarist and vocalist; I'm Joey and I play drums.

Start It Up is your new track. What is the story behind the song?

Start It Up is the first single we recorded for the album. It is mostly about a feeling of excitement for the future, while reminding ourselves to enjoy the present moment along the way instead of only focusing on the finish line. I try to put reminders in a lot of my songs in case I lose my way one day.

Will there be more material coming next year do you think?

We are absolutely coming out with new material next year. I think we all agree the most important part of all this is creating something new for everyone.

How did you all find one another and start Dry Reef?

Well. Collin gave me (Pat) my first guitar lesson in middle-school. In high-school, we started playing outdoor parties for our friends; then it was parties and venues in college and, when we realized we all had similar goals for our careers, we decided to really go for it in 2016 after college.

In terms of music; what did you all grow up around and idolise when young?

We came together as a band in high-school and played a lot of Classic-Rock and Reggae covers just for fun, so I guess that was a big influence. But, the more we grew together, the more we wanted to push ourselves musically. Pat began to love Post-Rock bands like Sigur Rós and Explosions in the Sky. Charles brought a Disco-Funk sound to the table; Joey loves Umphrey’s McGee even if he won't admit it and Collin just got so crazy-good at guitar - we were like, ‘alright; time to make something completely different than we've ever heard’.

What is Philadelphia like as a base? Is there a strong music scene there?

Philly is an amazing place to be a musician. There are some of the most unique and comfortable venues we have seen on the entire East Coast and all of the local artists look out for each other.

How do you think you have developed and evolved since the start of your career?

The biggest change since 2016 has been seeing a lot of our friends and family quit jobs because they are unfulfilled. Seeing that has made us so much more grateful to have a job that we don't want to quit and maybe one day we could even inspire others to find fulfilling careers.

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

We would love to get Joel Embiid in a music video, honestly.

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

One time, we booked an Airbnb in Maine and the owner of the property was a fan of ours from our show the night before. They stocked the house with all sorts of extra goodies for us. It was a really cool moment for us to see our music reaching people and it felt like a reminder we were on the right path.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

Pat: Take Care, Take Care, Take Care by Explosions in the Sky

It showed me how much energy can come from two guitars a bass and drums. No vocals, little production; just pure emotion and light. It's an album I listen to that grounds me in the present more than anything.

Collin: Wildflowers by Tom Petty

It came out the year I was born and I can remember my dad playing it constantly over the years. Petty became the first concert I ever saw and inspired me to learn music from an early age.

Charles: Axis: Bold as Love by The Jimi Hendrix Experience

It was the first album that really inspired me to get better at playing the guitar and to start writing my own songs. It also has one of the most iconic pieces of album artwork in music history.

Joey: Teen Dream by Beach House

I found this album when I had just finished high school and I had never heard something so ethereal and honest before. It was a time in my life when everything was changing, and it felt like this music could protect me from any harm.

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

Dr. Dog is an obvious pick for us. They are from Philadelphia and their sound is so wholesome and energetic. We really relate to their ability to create such a new form of Alternative-Rock. Their live show is a great time.

As for the rider…we'd love to have a baby goat to pet.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I think we would say that nobody in the industry really knows what's going on right now. Everything is changing every single day and there is too much conflicting advice out there to keep your head straight. I think what the scene needs now is artists that do whatever feels right.

IN THIS PHOTO: Ritual Talk

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Please check out Ritual Talk. They are a super-creative band from N.Y.C. with an airy, Synth-Pop sound.

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

We haven't needed to get away from music yet: it's where we are the most comfortable and we are so grateful every day to be able to be doing this.

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).

Blue Magic (Waikiki) - Son Little

6 Years - OddKidOut

Zebra - Beach House

Impossible Germany - Wilco

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Follow Dry Reef

Official:

https://www.dryreefband.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Dry.Reef/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/dryreef

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/dryreef/

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/user/DryReef12/videos

INTERVIEW: Tom Leeb

INTERVIEW:

Tom Leeb

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THE fantastic Tom Leeb…

has been explaining the story behind his latest single, Are We Too Late, and discussing his E.P., Tom Leeb. I ask the songwriter which artists have influenced him and whether there are a few albums that mean a lot to him – Leeb talks about his plans going forward.

I wanted to know whether he has a favourite memory from his career so far and which sounds he grew up around; why he decided to follow Folk and which rising artists we need to keep an eye out for – he ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

It’s been great. It’s had seven days and seven nights - just how I planned it!

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

I am a Pop-Folk singer-songwriter from France.

The video for Are We Too Late is out. What was it like creating that? Is it true you went out to Normandy to film it?

Filming this music video is the consecration of a lot of things…making it all happen; from writing the melody, to writing the words and making it sound original; true, sincere. Once you have all that, you then need images that elevates the music. Normandy was the right place for it.

Are you surprised by the success of the song and how many people have responded to it?!

Yes, very much so! I believe there is an audience for me out there in the world, but never have I thought it would be that big already, a few months after its release. I am feeling blessed!

Your eponymous E.P. is out. What sort of themes inspired the music on? Do you have a favourite cut from the collection?

The usual brokenhearted man that puts words over music. Joking! But, not joking. I had one love and one heartbreak; both of them two (lots of) six songs - my E.P.

How did you start in music? Were you raised around a lot of music?

My dad is a Jazz fan and has tons of C.D.s at his house and he used to play them a lot whilst I was growing up. From a young age, I was fed with music so I feel like I’ve always had it in my blood. I started music as a drummer and then, later, first picked up a guitar in N.Y.C. - where I was studying - in 2009.

Is there something about Folk music that attracted you? How come you took that direction?

I was blown away by a John Mayer performance back in my dorm room in 2009. It was a live version of the song, In Your Atmosphere, from the live album, Where the Light Is. Straight away, I knew this was the genre I wanted to explore with my own music!

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

I am more of a day-by-day kind of guy. I don’t usually look too far in to the future but I understand you’re interested in knowing my ambition. Well. My E.P. is the first honest piece of my life. I want to share it with people so that they can connect with the lyrics and/or the melody - that’s my goal for today, tomorrow and the end of 2018.

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

New York, 2011 I’m playing at an open mic night called The Underground; my girlfriend is here, with her phone out and getting it all on tape. There were musicians on stage in case a singer didn't play an instrument - or wanted to play a cover song - but I had my own instrument and didn’t want to play a cover.

I started singing solo; first verse, first chorus. Halfway through the song, all the musicians got it and joined me on second verse, as if it was all rehearsed. I’ll always remember the feeling of having a band joining me.

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

John Mayer - Continuum

The first album that inspired me in all ways.

Coldplay - Ghost Stories

Unreal. So deep and so melodious.

Bon Iver - Bon Iver

Incredible musician and songwriter. This album is so singular.

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

My friend and fellow Folk singer Hugo Barriol. He’s got something in his sound. Look him up!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I am myself a new artist coming through, so I’m still learning everyday. I’d still tell my fellow artists to never stop dreaming and dream bigger. But, on top of all that, work. Hard. Practice every day for hours. Go from good, to very good to even better. Don’t ever compare. Do your thing.

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

I’m based in France for now. But, soon enough, I’ll be touring in Europe!

 PHOTO CREDIT: Hugo Barriol

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Hugo Barriol; The Night Game; Melissa Bon.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Melissa Bon

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

I don’t really: music is my therapy, my job but also my chill time.

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).

Matt Corby - Wrong Man

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Follow Tom Leeb

PHOTO CREDIT: @nicolasburlot

Official:

http://tomleeb-music.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/Tom.Leeb.Officiel/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/tomleeb/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/tomleeb

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDP4Z-V95n3GfMPJ4c1mcHQ

INTERVIEW: MAWD

INTERVIEW:

MAWD

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IT has been great spending time with MAWD…

as she tells me about her new track, Wandering Eye, and the rather quirky story behind it! She explains how health issues have affected her music and what she has planned coming up; which albums and artists have made the biggest impact on her – I ask whether the American artist will come to the U.K. and perform at any point.

MAWD talks to me about the music she grew up around and how she got that incredible, raw voice; if she has advice for artists coming through; which rising musicians we need to be aware of; what she hopes to achieve by the end of the year; if she gets time to chill outside of music – she picks a great song to end the interview with.

__________

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

Hi, there! Well, the week has just begun for me (it's Monday... although, being a musician, what day even is the beginning of the week?!). But, so far not so bad! Feeling a bit run down so I went to Whole Foods and stocked up on an ungodly amount of vitamins to kick this bug I feel coming on. Now, I'm catching up on all my emails and hoping to squeeze in some music writing time while everyone is out of the apartment.  

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

Hi, there! My name is Madeleine Mathews but I go under the moniker ‘MAWD’ (a few reasons for the name: I LOVE Harold and Maude and want to embody Maude's positivity and outlook on life...minus dating a man sixty years my senior. If you haven't seen the movie, it's my favorite! And, MAWD derives from the '60s slang, ‘mod’, which is one of my absolute favorite eras. And, lastly, my grandmother pronounces my name ‘Maude-lin’ with her adorable Swiss accent; so, therefore, I am MAWD!).

A little about me: I have a chinchilla named Caper (who I've had for five years). I moved to Los Angeles about a year ago and we have a love/hate relationship...mostly love! Due to some recent health problems, I've had to really restrict my diet and find it hard to eat out because of that. But, on the upside, I have found I actually really love cooking! And, if I do say so myself, I'm pretty dang good at it. I have an amazing boyfriend (who you can see shaking his booty and driving the ‘MAWD-mobile’ in the video) who has been incredibly supportive of me throughout this whole bad health and musical journey. My favorite show is Seinfeld.. and I play music!

Wandering Eye is your latest single. Can you give me a sense how the song came together and what inspired it?

It came together about a year ago. My boyfriend and I were in a parking lot and he was poking fun at me saying I have a wandering eye after this man walked past us. He then went on to say “I'm going to write a song about how you have a wandering eye” and I snapped back: "No…I'm going to write a song about how I don't have a wandering eye!".

And, so; the next day I wrote a majority of the song in my room and a few days later took it to my good friend (who is actually producing my E.P. and produced/co-wrote this song), Josiah Mezzaschi, and he loved it! I, of course being the indecisive and most self-critical person I am, thought it wasn't very good. But, after he encouraged me that we should finish it; we did that very day and now it's one of my absolute favorite songs I've written!

PHOTO CREDIT: Ben Thomas

I hear little shades of Janis Joplin! Did it take a lot of work to provide your voice that rawness or is it a natural sound?!

It's funny how my voice found me…

I didn't start attempting to sing until I was seventeen. I always felt I had this desire to get my emotions out through song, but had no idea what I was doing when it came to actually singing them. I would mimic other artists like Amy Winehouse, Joanna Newsom or Norah Jones for fun…and eventually I found my own unique sound. Voice teachers have always had trouble with me because of this and the way I pronounce things when singing. I don't want to sound like everyone else: I want to sound like whatever feels most natural and real to me!

When it comes to those scratchy, belty parts of my voice - that developed over time. I first started out singing light, folky songs and in college, while playing in a few bands, I found myself wanting to rock. I love Folk music and love playing/writing it, but there's a part of me that just wanted to let loose. I still have no idea how I do it but it just feels so right when I do. It's an unexplainable thing but I only hope to develop and improve my voice over my lifetime. Just a short three years ago, I would of never imagined my voice being able to sing Rock ‘n' Roll. I think all artists grow into who they are truly meant to become.

Can you tell me what sort of music you grew up around? Which artists struck your ear?

Oh, dear. These questions are the hardest because I could write a novel…

When I was really young (like five-twelve), my mom played a LOT of Beatles, Carole King; Simon & Garfunkel, Partridge Family (don't laugh...this is my best-kept secret...I love them so much) and all the classics while my dad and I would rock out to The Rolling Stones and Beck. One of the people who truly made an impact on my life musically was my best friend from basically birth, Hannah Grubba.

In fourth grade, we would drive around in her mom's car listening to Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath; Queen etc. (we thought we were so cool). In middle-school, we'd listen to Devendra Banhart, The Shins; The Strokes, early Kings of Leon (Aha Shake Heartbreak is so good); Vetiver, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and so many other bands. After getting exposure to Indie music, I was obsessed with finding new bands. I'd go on Pitchfork and all those other early blogs and try to find my next favorite underground band. In high-school, there was a lot of Fleet Foxes, Radiohead; Joanna Newsom, The Kills; Dirty Projectors and all those early Indie bands that really set the bar high.

Might we see more material next year perhaps?

Indeed! I'm working on quite a few things for next year including my second E.P. Right now, I'm focusing on trying to figure out which songs will make the cut and trying to write more. At this point, I'm trying to release single-by-single until I have enough for my second E.P. - since that seems to be the model these days in the music world. 

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

I have a few goals set for myself. I'd love to get on a notable Spotify playlist and get my music heard by more people! I'd also love to get some more quality live videos up (which are in the works). And, it would be absolutely amazing if I could get a T.V. placement! In reality, I would just like my music to reach and touch more people.  

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

Oh, goodness. I feel like there have been a lot! So far, a couple come to mind...

The first one being my E.P. release show in Chico, CA back in May 2017. I just couldn't believe the large crowd of people there came to see me! It was truly overwhelming and special. Some of the others being our tour to SXSW with my L.A. backing band in March 2018 and releasing this music video! Every show seems to be special in its own way. Every encore, every crowd that comes to see us; it truly means so much. 

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

This is probably the hardest question ever. But, the three that first pop into my mind are:

Alabama Shakes - Boys & Girls

This is when I fell in love with Brittany Howard. She is one of my all-time favorite musicians and is incredibly inspiring. This album sort of catapulted me into discovering my Rock ‘n' Roll side.

Fleet Foxes - Helplessness Blues

This is one of those albums that are not only so magical and nostalgic, but absolutely perfect. I remember seeing them play it at the Greek Theater in Berkeley, CA when I was a teenager and I cried from how amazing this show was. One of my all-time favorite albums.

The Beatles - 1

I know this is a compilation album of some of their greatest hits but I remember a specific moment when my rat died when I was like six and my mom bought me this album to cheer me up. And, I'd listen to it every time I was sad. It just reminds me of innocent and wonderful times.

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

I would love to open for Alabama Shakes. I think that would absolutely be a dream come true. My bandmates and I joke about it all the time; saying things like "Just wait till we open for the Alabama Shakes and travel all over the world!". 

My own rider?! First of all: How cool would that be!? Since I have such a restricted diet from my health problems, I would definitely have lots of LaCroix (although, I heard they are getting sued for having insecticide in their product?! So, maybe I'll stick to Pellegrino); Throat Coat tea, coconut tortillas and a taco bar…and endless french fries. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say...it's a long road but don't give up. If you have the right amount of determination and drive, you can make anything happen. Learn things on your own (whether it's industry knowledge about splitting co-writing agreements or contracts to creating your own content so you don't have to waste money or time paying someone else)! Be creative! Stand out from the crowd but be yourself. Don't ever let people tell you who you should sound like or who you should be. I know I'd rather look back and be proud of the work I've done than compromise to make more money or become more commercial…

You will find your fan base. It takes people years and years and years to break through, although it seems like they got discovered overnight (hey; some people do but most of the time it took them five-plus years to get there). I know I'm still on my journey, but the best things I've learned this year - especially living in L.A. - is to stop comparing my own journey and successes (or lack thereof) to others. Be happy with where you are. If you are playing music and have a band that supports you, that right there is amazing! If you have people coming to your shows to see you (even if it's just a few), that is amazing! Be happy that you get to play music!

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

Right now, I'm going into a bit of a hibernation mode with our live shows. My backing band and I have been playing pretty consistently for the last year (anywhere from three-eight shows a month or more), so I'm taking the time now to get some recordings and videos done and rework our live set. I've got lots of new songs in the mix and new fun covers we want to toss in. Our next two shows are at The Hotel Café’s main stage on October 16th and Sofar Sounds’ L.A. Halloween show on October 30th.  

Will you come to the U.K. and play at some point?

I would love to! I would love to do a national and international tour at some point. Just gotta keep hoping for that big breakthrough to get the funds or hop on board opening for another band! 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Livingmore/PHOTO CREDIT: Suzi Carmichael

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Oh, definitely! Some local L.A. acts that I love are Livingmore, Aloud; KiSMiT and Sarah Rogo. I've had the pleasure in sharing a show with all of these amazing bands/artists. I also know that she is blowing up everywhere - but Phoebe Bridgers has been on-repeat for the last six months or so. She's amazing!

 IN THIS PHOTO: Phoebe Bridgers

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

Even when I'm not playing or writing or seeing music, I'm usually doing something music-related like answering emails, organizing band practices or recording times; booking shows or trying to make content. But, when I do give myself a little breathing room; I love to go thrifting with my friends; go out for coffee at my favorite spot down the street, go to the beach; draw when I'm inspired, go on fun little dates with my boyfriend and lay in bed with a big cup of tea and watch really bad reality shows. 

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).

Oh, my goodness. ONE SONG! This is the hardest yet. I always go through phases of only listening to Gregory Alan Isakov for weeks straight. So; in honor of me being in yet another Isakov phase, how about one of my favorite Greg songs called Big Black Car

Thanks for having me!

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Follow MAWD

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/mawdmusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/mawdofficial

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/mawdmusic/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/mawdmusic

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoONiL04v9XyBsZp38boRcA

INTERVIEW: The Silent Comedy

INTERVIEW:

The Silent Comedy

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THE awesome band The Silent Comedy…

have been talking about their approaching album, Enemies Multiply, and what sort of themes are investigated throughout; why there was a slight gap since their last release and which musicians are inspiring to them.

I was eager to know how the band got together and how their sound has evolved since the very start; if there are any gigs booked in the diary; whether there are any rising artists we need to be aware of – they provide some useful advice for newcomers in music.

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

We’re doing well, thank you!

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

The core members of The Silent Comedy are Joshua Zimmerman (Vocals, Bass), Jeremiah Zimmerman (Vocals, Keys, Guitar); Justin Buchanan (Banjo, Mandolin, Guitar) and Chad Lee (Drums).

How did The Silent Comedy get together and find one another?

The development of the band, and its line-up, was a process of evolution over years. Obviously, Jeremiah and I are brothers so we met pretty early on. Justin is the only other member that was there at the very beginning of The Silent Comedy. We met him through some mutual friends when we were in high-school. Chad is our cousin and the newest member. We had several drummers over the years before he started playing with us.

Enemies Multiply is your forthcoming album. What can you say about the themes explored and the influences in the songs?

Enemies Multiply explores the feelings of dealing with hardship and adversity in life. The songs are anthems of frustration, anger and despair. We get influence and inspiration from our personal experiences as well as what we see in the world around us. Societal themes of our time from Brexit in the U.K., Donald Trump in the U.S.A. and the rise of dictators around the world mirror some of the upheaval and chaos that we experience in our own personal lives. The songs of this album track that narrative arc.

This is your first album in eight years. Was there a reason behind the gap?

It is actually our first release in five years. There are a number of reasons for the gap that would take a while to explain but a quick version is that we have all gotten caught up in other artistic pursuits and our own lives. We toured hard for a number of years and also needed a break from the road. It feels good to revisit the band after taking a step away.

In terms of music; what did you all grow up around and idolise when young?

Jeremiah and I were raised on the Folk music of the sixties - Bob Dylan, Simon & Garfunkel; Cat Stevens etc. We were also introduced to the roots of Blues music through ‘field songs’ and ‘spirituals’ that were sung by slaves in the American South. Traces of these influences can still be found in our music now.

How do you think you have developed and evolved since the start of your career?

Our sound has changed pretty drastically over the years. We were a more folky, acoustic act in the beginning. Over years of touring, we added a lot of the Rock influences that we love and the sound became a mixture of both. This album is considerably less Folk-oriented than we have been in the past. It’s a better representation of what our live show has developed into. We still write the softer acoustic songs, but we don’t play them live as often.

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

Releasing Enemies Multiply is our focus right now. We really want people to have access to this album because it means a lot to us. We’ll be doing a few release shows in California, then looking to do some more performing in 2019.

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

Two show memories are particular stick with me over the years. We played KOKO in London with our good buddies The Heavy in 2013. That whole tour was amazing but that show was amazing! Another one was playing Wrex the Halls holiday show in our hometown of San Diego with Queens of the Stone Age, Cage The Elephant and Vampire Weekend.

Which one album means the most to each of you would you say (and why)?

That’s a really tough question! I don’t know if I could choose just one. Different albums are perfect for different times and moods…when it comes to the impact a single album has had on me then In the Aeroplane Over the Sea by Neutral Milk Hotel may be the one!

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

I have always wanted to play with Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. That would be an amazing experience!

As far as riders go; our rider is pretty simple. Just some food and beverages make us happy. Nothing crazy!

Can we see you on the road this year at all?

We have several shows in California to celebrate the release of the new album. San Diego on October 13th and 19th and L.A. on October 18th.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would tell aspiring artists to really analyse what they truly want out of an artist’s life and what sacrifices that will require. It isn’t an easy life and I think a lot of people pursue it with unrealistic expectations.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Benjamin Booker

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There is a guy named Benjamin Booker that I am really digging right now. He has a song called Slow Coming that has just gotten under my skin. I usually listen to it at least once a day.

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

We all have very busy lives outside of music. A couple of the guys had children recently; I am constantly traveling shooting and directing projects for television - so we don’t get very much chill time. When we do, we all have different activities to unwind. I like to go to my house in the forest in upstate New York and spend time in nature.

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

I would have to say Slow Coming by Benjamin Booker since I mentioned that before!

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Follow The Silent Comedy

Official:

https://www.thesilentcomedy.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/_SilentComedy

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/TheSilentComedyMusic/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thesilentcomedy/

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/the-silent-comedy

YouTube:

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

PHOTOS:

The Joelsons

INTERVIEW: Poltrock

INTERVIEW:

Poltrock

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IT has been interesting speaking with Poltrock…

as he talks about his music and how he got into the business. I ask what the story is behind his latest track, Titanus, and what we can expect from his upcoming album, Machines – he reveals a few albums that are important to him and highlights a couple of rising artists to look out for.

Poltrock tells me what type of music he grew up around and, being based in Belgium, what the scene is like there; if there are there are going to be any gigs approaching; whether he gets time to unwind away from music – he chooses a great song to end the interview with.

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

Great, thanks! My single, Titanus, has just been released and I’m finishing the video as we speak. I’m running my own label so it’s kind of busy but the sun is shining in Brussels and I discovered this new espresso blend that keeps me going. 

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

I’m a Brussels-based producer and session keyboard player. I’ve been working behind the scenes for nearly two decades now. Now, I’ve finally decided to release my own stuff I’d been quietly compiling the last couple of years.

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

I’m really glad about the track Titanus because it originated from a night jam with two of my favourite synths: the Novation Bass Station and the Dave Smith OB6. I basically approached this track like an improvising Jazz combo: I started jamming; left hand playing one synth, the right hand the other - got lost in the vibe of the moment and ended up six hypnotizing minutes later with 80% of the track finished. 

The piano melody was ripped off a remix I did for Belgian Rock band Triggerfinger and features my beloved muted piano. 

Machines is your upcoming album. I believe it completes a trilogy. What is the concept behind the trilogy and what stories inspired Machines?

The trilogy is my first release as a solo artist. Throughout the last couple of years, I’ve compiled a lot of improvisations and tracks and finally discovered that my material – although, thoroughly related by the presence of my ‘muted’ piano – was too diverse to be put on one album. That’s why I decided to split it up.

The first album, Mutes, introduces my signature piano sound with twelve short and intimate piano improvisations. The second album, Moods, immerses the same piano in dark ambient and cinematic soundscapes and the final album, Machines, introduces hypnotic synthesizer sequences, Techno beats and the use of ‘prepared piano’: mechanical modifications to make the piano sound like a ‘machine’.

Can you tell me what sort of music you grew up around? Which artists struck your ear?

I grew up listening to ’90s Indie-Rock and Hardcore. Victim’s Family, Nomeanso; Fugazi, that kind of stuff. Being a trained Jazz musician, I admit there is an awful lot of Bill Evans, Hank Mobley and Thelonious Monk in my current playlists.

The car is my favourite music listening habitat and there’s a plethora of cinematic, Electronic-Ambient artists to escort me on my tedious road trips: Tim Hecker (amazing new album!), Ben Frost; Stars of the Lid, Christina Vantzou; Deaf Center, Haxan Cloak; Oneohtrix Point Never; Fennesz, Rival Consoles…  

As you hail from Belgium; what is the scene like there in terms of music?

The Belgian scene is quite uncomplicated because of its small scale and is roughly divided into a Flemish and a French-speaking scene. Everyone knows everyone, basically. I live in Brussels so I find myself in the middle of both scenes. The Indie-Rock scene is very much alive and there’s a lot of interesting Electronic music going on.  

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

Well; I do hope my Machines album gets some international attention. My music definitely won’t appeal to everyone, but there’s an interesting underground scene that focuses on Electronic and Neo-Classical crossover. I’ll be releasing a remix E.P. as well with remixes by a lot of interesting artists and I have a lot of interesting collaborations going.   

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

Well. I’ve been around as a session guy for quite some time so there’s too many good memories to mention, actually… 

I can get equally thrilled by playing a sunset gig at an astonishing festival in the Tuscany mountains than from recording an intimate piano impro. on a rainy Monday afternoon.

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

The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars - David Bowie

My favourite album as a teenager.

Bach: The Goldberg Variations - Glenn Gould

I had to play Bach as a child and even back then I really loved it. Bach has had a huge influence on the way I approach harmony and melody.

Immunity - Jon Hopkins

I’m a late bloomer when it comes to organic Electronic music. Immunity was an eye-opener.

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

Well. I’d be honoured to tour with Soulwax just to be able to take a peek at their amazing setup and collection of vintage synths.

Rider-wise; I’m happy with a nice gin and tonic, although a Bösendorfer Grand would be much appreciated of course.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I teach Sound Design to future music professionals and I always advise them to diligently dig for their own musical identity. There’s no fun in mimicking other artists. 

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

I’ll start touring on 23. October in Belgium and Holland, which is exciting as well as frightening because I’ll be improvising surrounded by a grand piano as well as a rig of capricious vintage synths. A lot of things can go wrong from a technical point of view which is great fun (smiles).

Will you come to the U.K. and play at some point?

I’m in the middle of negotiating with U.K. agents and hope to come and play in the U.K. again very soon.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Tim Green

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Releasing three albums a year doesn’t leave one with much time to discover new stuff. I’m afraid I keep digging up old guys like myself… 

Young London Techno artist Tim Green makes great stuff, though. And, there’s an amazingly talented Belgian Ambient artist called oaktree who will release a new album next year. We’ll be collaborating for a joint-release next year as well.

IN THIS PHOTO: oaktree

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

I just recorded three albums next to my ‘day job’ as a session player and sound designer which leaves me, basically, no time to unwind unfortunately. Could be worse, though; I have the best job in the world!

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

I just love the last Rival Consoles album. Thanks for playing Persona

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Follow Poltrock

Official:

https://www.poltrock.be/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/poltrockmusic

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/poltrockmusic/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3U5a8SIa6RFDsmfzvn97cI?si=sJGKosICS5-L5V40DZk2PQ

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEfZ8sHa7yLL230M7hfyolQ

INTERVIEW: AVEC

INTERVIEW:

AVEC

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AVEC has been talking with me…

about her latest track, Under Water, and what it was like filming its brilliant video. I ask the Austrian artist what the scene is like in the country and whether there is a rising artist to watch out for – AVEC reveals plans in regards touring and more material.

I ask how she feels she has progressed since the start of her career; which artists have made the biggest impression on her; what is the best compliment she has been paid; if there is anything she hopes to achieve by the end of the year – she ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

All good here in Austria (smiles).

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

My name is AVEC. I am a singer/songwriter from Austria. I started writing my own songs when I was about fourteen-years-old. In 2015, I released my first E.P., Heartbeats, followed by the debut record, What If We Never Forget, in 2016. Now, my second record Heaven / Hell is out and I’m going on tour through Europe in autumn.

Under Water is your new track. What is the story behind the song?

I think the song, Under Water, is the most honest one I’ve ever written so far. The lyrics are pretty rough and kind of relatable to everybody. The line “Breathing under water“ perfectly describes the pain and the struggle of being honest with yourself and being honest with everybody else.

It hurts and you might hurt people by being honest but it’s the only way to keep on going, to get through with whatever you’re dealing with - be honest; stay honest and be true to yourself - otherwise those feelings and thoughts will eat up your mind!

The video is rather cool! How did you feel watching it back for the first time?

When I watched it the first time, I got goosebumps all over my body! It moved me and it touched me - I really love it!

Is there going to be more material coming next year?

Let’s see - maybe (smiles).

PHOTO CREDIT: Kidizin Sane

In terms of your career; how do you think you have progressed and changed since the start?

I grew a lot in those two years in between my records. When I started recording my first album, I was only eighteen-years-old; I didn’t know anything about the whole business and about who I really am. I am now twenty-three and I grew a lot with my record Heaven / Hell. I write about things differently; I look at things differently; I’m more reflected and just grown-up I guess. I know what I want and where I stand and that is so important. 

As an Austrian artist; what is the nation like regarding music? Is it an interesting place to record in?

There’s a lot of amazing music coming out of Austria. It’s sort of a ‘boom’ right now, which is really sweet! It’s definitely a great place to record in (smiles).

PHOTO CREDIT: Kidizin Sane

Which artists have been the biggest influences on you personally?

Bon Iver (Justin Vernon), John Mayer; Daughter, Sharon Van Etten…

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

By the end of 2018, I’d love to say that the album did really good and the tour went amazing - that would be nice (smiles).

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

Music just makes me happy; it’s the only thing that can make me feel truly and completely happy and whole again.

What is the best compliment your music has ever received in your opinion?

I’ve seen people cry tears of joy and sadness at my shows (both ways) and I think that’s one of the best compliments: to see people moved by my music.

Is there any instrument you still wish to master?

I’d love to play the piano properly (smiles).

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

In regards tour dates; check out my Facebook and website.

IN THIS PHOTO: Travis Is a Tourist

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Travis Is a Tourist.

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

At the moment, not really. But, normally, I go out into the nature to free my mind.

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).

In Their Thousands - Acrasia

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Follow AVEC

Official:

http://officialavec.com/

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/officialavec/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/avec_music

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/officialAVEC/

Spotify:

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6N8vbhxZ0CYJHd8WGJ9Snf

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4vbbYmRRVuXGPlagPGIS6g

SoundCloud:

https://soundcloud.com/avec_official