INTERVIEW: Hybrid

INTERVIEW:

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Hybrid

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I have been learning more about Hybrid...

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and his latest track, Make a Move. He gives me the lowdown on its origins and talks about upcoming plans and the sort of music he grew up around; how he mixes Spanish and Latin sounds into his work and whether there are some rising artists we need to keep a look out for.

I ask Hybrid if there is advice he would give to approaching musicians and how he spends time away from his work; what he would like for Christmas and which song he wants to end the interview on.

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

I’m great. Still buzzing from the release of my single. It has been a great week producing, training; writing and getting ready for what’s coming.

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

Hi. My name is Hybrid. I’m a Latin/Pop and R&B artist. I’m from a little town in Spain called Torrevieja and recently moved to London to work on my music.

Make a Move is your debut single. Is there a story behind it?

It’s a long story but, basically, it’s about me being attracted to this really hot girl and we couldn’t keep our eyes off each other - but we both didn’t make a move, so she left and I thought I’d lost the chance to meet her. Luckily, later she came back so I decided to make the move and talk to her.

While I was talking to her, she kept complimenting me with this and that; saying “You’re so handsome” so I asked her “If you think I’m so handsome, why didn’t you come over and talk to me?” and she replied “It’s not a good look when girls approach guys”. It’s an issue for both sides and there are probably lots of missed opportunities out there. So basically just make a move.

Might we see some more material next year?

I’ve got a couple of new tracks lined up for early-2019 and been working in the studio on new songs with some top producers and writers shaping my sound. So stay tuned!

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As a Latin artist who resides in the U.K. and Spain; sings in Spanish and English...do you think that opens you up to worlds and fans other artists are unable to touch?

Yes. It allows me to relate to both English and Spanish listeners and opens up a broader world of creativity to express who I am. Besides, I’ve been listening to Latin and American music most of my life so it’s a part of who I am.

Can you give me an idea of the artists, older and new, who inspire you and compel your own sound?

I was inspired by Michael Jackson, R. Kelly; Usher, Justin Bieber at a young age and, more recently, The Weeknd, Pnb Rock, and Ozuna.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

2019 will be the best year yet! I’m coming back to London to get ready for bigger things to come.

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

Yeah. My first performance. When I was twelve-years-old, my best friend had this crazy idea of performing at a school singing contest for fun - thinking it wasn’t going to be big. But, when we got there, the entire school was present. So just imagine the experience of a twelve-year-old kid starting his first year of high-school, having no idea if he could sing. But, when I opened my mouth and started singing, everybody went crazy which shocked me because I didn’t realise that I would have that effect on people.

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

There is one particular record that means the world to me and that is Me and My Guitar by Tom Dice, a Belgian artist. It was a gift from my grandma. 

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

I want a new, shiny Touch Bar MacBook Pro to work on my music and future projects.

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

It would be The Weeknd.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Just keep fighting and do what you want to do in life.

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

Coming soon...

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Johnny Yukon

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Johnny Yukon (Lies); anders (Undone) and Reo Cragun (In Too Deep).

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 IN THIS PHOTO: anders

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

I like to chill doing music but, when I’m not doing music, I’m always skating with my mates.

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). 

Me and My Guitar by Tom Dice

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INTERVIEW: Brad Byrd

INTERVIEW:

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Brad Byrd

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THANKS to Brad Byrd...

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for discussing his latest single, Lovesong, and why he decided to tackle The Cure’s classic. He talks about his love of the band and which artists are important; albums that mean the most and when he got into music.

Byrd highlights some rising acts to watch and tells me what is coming next; if he has favourite memories from his time in music and who he’d support on tour if he had the chance – he selects, no shocks, a Cure song to end things with.

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

I’m well, thanks. I’ve been busy getting back into it after our Thanksgiving, but all is good.

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

Sure. I’m a singer/songwriter that grew up in New England and I currently live in Los Angeles, CA. My sound is mainly Indie-Rock/Alt-Country. I’ve released three full-length albums, plus a handful of singles and covers to date.

You have released a cover of Lovesong. What prompted you to tackle The Cure’s classic?

I’ve always loved The Cure since I was very young. A few months ago I heard Lovesong on the radio and it just hit me: creating a cover at a slower tempo might be interesting. I dug that concept so much that I decided to record it!

Are they a band you are a big fan of? What sort of sounds did you grow up around?

Yeah. The Cure’s music was like the theme to my high-school years. I basically grew up on Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me and Disintegration. I also was into so much of what was on the radio at that time and certainly had love affairs with certain records like Def Leppard’s High ‘n’ Dry and Pyromania; Van Halen’s Jump; U2’s Joshua Tree and even Kiss’ Double Platinum. My parents played a lot of The Beatles, Crosby, Stills & Nash and John Denver records…and my brother was super-into Punk-Rock like Bad Brains. So, I was kind of exposed to the full dose.

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Can you remember when you knew music was the path for you? Did something trigger that?

I was always drawn to the drums and bought my first kit when I was a freshman in high-school. My brother played guitar and we would jam after school constantly. My mom would always flick the cellar lights on and off to signal dinner time or, as New Englanders say: “Suppah time”. Drums are my favorite instrument but it wasn’t until my college years, at Syracuse University, that I fell in love with writing songs on the guitar.

After college, I lived in Brooklyn and worked in N.Y.C. as a technical recruiter (because I never thought of music as a career choice). After work, twenty-three-year old me would light a bunch of candles and record myself on a tape recorder in my studio apartment. Man, I wish I knew where those tapes were! I vividly remember one day having this weird feeling come over me - my ‘A-ha!’ moment...’This is what I want to do...be a singer/songwriter for the rest of my life’. It came out of nowhere really and the passion for it has never subsided.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes. My team and I are releasing a full-length record called Phases in the spring and there will be live shows and videos surrounding the release. No specific tour dates set in stone just yet but we’re hoping to make it to the U.K./E.U. as well.

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

That’s tough; so many things. Just this month, legendary Los Angeles radio D.J. Nic Harcourt has been spinning my cover of Lovesong during his morning show on 88.5 FM (KCSN). That’s a standout for me!

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What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

Outside of friends, family and health, it’s basically everything to me. As long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to write songs, record them and share them with as many people as possible. It’s a passion of mine that really runs deep.

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

Another tough one! Hmm…U2’s Joshua Tree really got me thinking about melody and song-craft. Later on, albums like Nada Surf’s Let Go and Lou Reed’s Transformer blew my mind in terms of simplicity, melody; groove and arrangement. Those three were all game changers for me.

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As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

Peace, man. The world needs to come together and we’ve got to stop fighting everywhere.

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

I’d love to go out with The War on Drugs. I really love what they are doing right now. My rider would consist of mainly vegan/gluten-free options, plus a case of lime flavored LaCroix Sparkling Water for each gig.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

One: don’t take yourself too seriously. Two: know that making it and having a career in music is a long, slow burn. Three: don’t be an egomaniac.

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

Aside from a few quick Holiday appearances, we don’t have finalized tour dates to share just yet. But, we’re currently lining things up for 2019 and I’m looking forward to playing the tunes off Phases to lots of new crowds. If your readers are in Los Angeles, they can find me at the renowned Hotel Cafe in Hollywood or out in the desert, rocking the saloon at Pappy & Harriet’s.

How important is it getting onto the stage and delivering music to the people?

It’s so important…there’s nothing more fun and powerful than being on stage and affecting people with music.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: David Poe/PHOTO CREDIT: Marina Chavez

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I recently did a show with wordsmith, and N.Y.C. transplant, David Poe. He’s been at it a long time and his catalog is definitely worth deep-diving into. I also recently caught Misty Boyce with Grand Canyon here in L.A. It was a night of solid songs and great performances. Check ’em out!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Misty Boyce/PHOTO CREDIT: Deborah Farnault

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

My wife and our two dogs love to get out of the city and go to Big Bear Lake and the desert in California a lot. I use our trips to gain perspective and enjoy down 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).

Cool! Yeah, how about a song by, um…The Cure?! Let’s go with Lullaby?

 

Thanks for your time!  Happy Holidays and all the best to you in 2019.

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INTERVIEW: Bree Taylor

INTERVIEW:

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Bree Taylor

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I have been speaking with Bree Taylor...

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about her latest single, You Played It All, and what its story is. I was eager to learn what is happening next for her and whether there are plans; the sort of music she was raised around and which albums ranks as personal favourites.

Taylor talks about the role plays in her life; what advice she’d give to rising artists and which new names we need to get behind – she ends the interview by selecting a great track and reveals what Christmas present she would have given a choice of anything.

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

Hi, Sam! My week has been great so far! Found out my dad booked me a surprise trip to Nashville for the first week of June as an early Christmas present, so I am super-excited about that.

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

My name is Bree Taylor. I am a singer-songwriter from Toronto, ON (in Canada) and I recently released my six-song E.P. called Unbreakable in August 2018 and am currently promoting my single, You Played It All, off the E.P. This E.P. is a Pop record that I have been working on the past three years that I am excited to finally have released.

You Played It All is your new track. What is the story behind it?

This new single I wrote a few years ago as a sad piano ballad but, when I took it to my producer this past summer, we started playing around with it in the studio and we ended up turning it into this fun, upbeat yet-emotional Dance ballad. I absolutely loved the entire creative process of this song and where it ended up. It turned into something so special that I didn't see coming when I first wrote it - which is the coolest part of being a musician and songwriter.

It is a song about dating and relationships in today's dating era where many guys play games and lead girls on and don't take relationships seriously. They get scared of commitment or just purely enjoy the chase and are emotionally immature; but a lot of great women get hurt by them in the process. What I want people to take away from this song, however, is that if someone is playing with your emotions in any dating/relationship scenario they aren't worth your time or energy and you're better off without them. So, what seems like a hurtful situation is actually a blessing in disguise because you deserve so much better than that.

Are you looking ahead to next year in terms of material?

YES! I am already doing a bunch of writes (sic) and working on new music and will be releasing a Pop-Country single in the New Year and taking my music a bit more in that direction. My roots are originally Country; that’s what I was writing before I started on this E.P. but have always had a love for so many genres that I wanted to put out a Pop record. I’ve since been getting back into my roots and also have gotten so much feedback at my shows that I have a killer voice for Country music, so it seems that’s where things are taking me and my music next.

Can you give me an idea of the artists, older and new, who inspire you and compel your own sound?

I have honestly listened to so many different artists of different genres of music my entire life that I couldn’t quite give a direct answer to that. I have always just been me. I am sure all the different musical interests I have had my entire life have influenced me and my sound in one way or another. I grew up loving Shania Twain, Amanda Marshall; Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson; Taylor Swift, Faith Hill; Sade, Avril Lavigne...the list goes on and on!

My current sound is just me - I write and sing from the heart and whatever comes out is where we take things. I love being able to experiment with my music!

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Well. I kind of spoiled this bit already by mentioning that I will be taking my music in a new direction in 2019 and releasing a Country single early-2019. I also mentioned earlier that I will be down in Nashville for about a week or so the first week of June 2019 so I am planning to set up a bunch of writing sessions and meetings while I am down there and take advantage of my time in town.

I also have plans to be doing more shows and festivals in 2019 and am hoping to potentially plan another tour as well. I have some things being planned behind the scenes that I am hoping will work out that I can’t talk about just yet - but I will update everyone on my social media once I am able to.

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

My favourite memory thus far in music would have to be being on my first tour this past May 2018. I did a twelve-show tour across Canada sponsored by Silhouette Eyewear that was absolutely a great experience for my first ever tour. It was very low budget and wasn’t the most lavish experience per se but it was great experience. Myself and all the other artists on tour had a lot of fun; bonded and made friends for life.

My ultimate favourite moment would be getting to perform on stage at the Hard Rock Casino in Vancover, BC. That is the biggest stage I have yet to perform on and it was a stage that several dozen incredible artists and bands that I admire have performed on like Pat Benatar, Michael Bublé... the list goes on. Their sound system and team were incredible too - it was a great performance experience.

What does music mean to you? How important is it in your life?

Music is everything to me. I don’t know how I would function without music in my life - it has been so ingrained in me that it is vital to my existence. Creating fuels my soul and music is every part of that. Listening to music has always been something my parents surrounded me with and creating it is such a deep part of me that not being able to sing or write would probably kill me or, at the very least, my spirit. I can’t see myself doing anything else and that is why I work so hard - because I really have no choice.

I have invested so much time, energy and money into my career but it is just something that doesn't feel like work to me. I even love things like this - interviewing, press; performing, writing; designing my website, acting in and creating a music video. Every angle of this industry and my career in music I adore. It’s second nature to me and is so enjoyable it just comes naturally and is everything I want for my life.

I also love that it gives me the platform to be an advocate for things I care about. I can not only write songs about topics that mean so much to me and writing very much is therapy for me...but I can bring awareness and share my story with mental-health as someone who has suffered with anxiety and depression almost my entire life as well as bullying in school, body-image issues and eating disorders.

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

Shania Twain - Come on Over

I would steal this album from my mom growing up and dance and belt out along to her tunes. It reminds me of all the happy times in my childhood when everything was blissfully happy and unaware of the stresses of adult life. Before I was bullied in school when things were easy and fun.

Avril Lavigne - Under My Skin

I went through a lot of teen angst and was bullied really badly throughout my school years and this album really stands out to me because it had a lot of deep and emotional lyrics that I could connect to. It got me through a lot of hard times growing up.

Michelle Branch - The Spirit Room

This album stands out so clearly to me because Michelle Branch inspired me to pick up the guitar and want to sing professionally and have a career in music. I had always dreamed about being a professional musician but, when I fell in love with her music and saw the passion she had and heard her lyrics, I knew it was how I wanted to spend my life. I can’t quite explain it but this album took me dreaming of having a career in music and gave me the drive and ambition to really go after it and make it a career.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

One present I really want this Christmas is love: love for me and for everyone. I want everyone to feel loved and wanted and to know how much they are valued especially at this time of year; especially those who don't have anyone or are going through hard times. This time of year is hard for many people, especially those who have lost loved ones who can't be here with us.

Since losing people close to me, the holidays have become a hard time for myself and my family and my heart goes out to everyone else dealing with similar things. So, all I want is love. I am a simple person and my pursuit of love and happiness has been a long and tiring one - and it's all I want in life but especially this Christmas.

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

I would want to tour with either Taylor Swift or Carrie Underwood. I admire them both so much as women, artists and businesswomen. I love their music and everything they represent and would LOVE to be able to open for either of them on tour.

In terms of my own rider - I am fairly easy going and modest so I don’t expect much. Haha. I would probably want some essential oils with a diffuser; hot ginger/lemon tea, a comfy couch to relax on; some good lighting to do hair and makeup and a little bed and treats for my dog - who I would want to bring with me on a big stadium tour like that.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I always say that, for anyone wanting to get into this industry, you not only have to eat, breathe and sleep music but you also need to educate yourself on the business end of it as well. It is such a highly competitive industry that you not only need to have talent and passion but you need to run your own business and build your brand along the way. Music isn’t just about music anymore and there are so many area’s to this industry that are vital to your success. You need to find a way to stand out from the rest and set yourself apart.

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

The only current show I have booked for 2019 is February 22nd, 2019 - a charity event for Team Dog Rescue; Part with a Purpose at Chateau Le Parc. I am booking shows and festivals right now for 2019 and will post on my website any upcoming shows or people can join my mailing list to find out.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: The Reklaws

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I really am loving The Reklaws. They are a brother-and-sister Country duo and I saw them this past summer at the Mississauga Waterfront Festival and really fell in love with their music. I also love Kira Isabella - and her new single, Little Girl, is killing it. I just love her lyrics and the powerful messages behind her music. She also has a great voice!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Kira Isabella

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

Music is pretty much my life and I am constantly surrounded by it because my drive and determination to make this a full-time career for myself is relentless so I never give up. However, I do let myself socialize with friends and family and I date when I get the chance as well, which not only fuels my music creatively but it had given me a lot of experience to give advice to my fans on my YouTube channel or upcoming podcast.

I like to unwind at home with my dog, in my P.J.s, with a good blanket and either a good book or show on Netflix. Or, I love doing yoga or going to the gym to help me de-stress and help me with my anxiety.

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).

Halsey - Without Me

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INTERVIEW: Passive

INTERVIEW:

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Passive

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THANKS to Passive...

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for telling me about their new single, Like This, and what inspired it. I ask how they all got together and if they already have plans for next year – they reveal some albums important to them and select some rising musicians we need to get involved with.

With some tour dates coming along - 15/12: Zigfrid von Underbelly, Hoxton; 18/12: The Horns, Watford; 22/12: The Camden Assembly, Camden; 31/12: Trinity, Harrow; 10/01: The Dublin Castle, Camden –, I was eager to learn more about them and the music they’d drawn to; the advice they’d give to upcoming artists and how they spend time away from music.

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

Hey! This week’s been good! Looking real forward to Xmas and the gigs we have coming up.

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

We are an Indie-Rock band originally from Watford, London. We've all known each other since school and have been playing with each other for years, but started up Passive in the summer of 2017.

Can you tell me how Passive began? When did you find one another?

All four of us met in school and we've been playing together since the age of seventeen. At this early age, we'd all been in different bands with other musicians but came together once recognising we enjoyed the sound we made together. It was only last year (July 2017) we formally announced ourselves as Passive. We all knew from early on that being in a band was what we wanted to do with our lives and we've played every gig possible since.  

 

Like This is your new single. Is there a story behind it?

Like This was a song that Elliott wrote about a particular relationship a long time ago. Originally, the song had quite a positive meaning - that ‘when (relationships are bad) it's like this, I'll do what I do best (to fix things of course)’. Upon reflection, Elliott may have been putting his head in the sand a little. We wanted the album art to represent this. The Burial of Atala by Roussy-Trioson depicts a man who's closing his eyes, gripping his partner's legs and hoping for the best. 

Might we see more material next year?

We've got loads more material to record and a couple of things ready to release, so more singles are on the way and, if we’re lucky, eventually we should smash out an E.P.!

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Is North London a great area when it comes to influence and musical peers?

North London is great. Like many others, we started out playing home town gigs in Watford and Harrow and have now moved onto venues in Camden and Shoreditch, all north of the river. We've met a lot of great bands on the way and predict we'll meet many more! You realise early on that London’s a pretty tight-knit community of musicians. 

In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

Seasick Steve, The Strokes; Jamie Cullum, John Mayer; Travis Barker, Peace; John Mayer, Florence and the Machine and Noel Gallagher. Coldplay…?

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As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Elliott: Boots with no holes in.

Phil: A free hot yoga class.

Josh: Some LUSH bath bombs.

Matt: A Liverpool season ticket.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

We are playing The Dublin Caste on Thursday, 10th January! 

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

We did a New Year’s Eve gig at our local pub/club - the Trinity in Harrow. It gets pretty packed and sweaty but it was a great set; we had a great time and it was certainly a top-notch mem!

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

Elliott: Back to Bedlam - James Blunt. It was the first album I bought from HMV.

Phil: Maroon 5 - Songs About Jane. Mum always plays it in the car.

Josh: I love the first Two Door Cinema Club album but Elliott borrowed it and broke the case...

Matt: (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? It made me wanna join a band.

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

I think we can all agree that we'd love to support Peace and that we'd want four shots of tequila beforehand.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Go to pubs, see some live music, find out who's putting on the night and then ask if they’ll put you on in future!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: YONAKA/PHOTO CREDIT: RORY

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Loving things from YONAKA, CHILDCARE; Anteros, Connie Constance; SEA GIRLS and Pip Millet right now!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Anteros

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

We. Love. The. Pub. Also...we’re huge Peaky Blinders and Peep Show fans. 

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).

Elliott: Hopopono by GoGo Penguin

Josh: 5 dollars by Christine and the Queens

Phil: Stop This Train by John Mayer

Matt: Little by Little by Oasis

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INTERVIEW: In My Days

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew Halangk

In My Days

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I have time for one more interview before the day’s end...

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew Halangk

so I have been speaking with In My Days about their new single, Counting Up the Nights, and how it came together. They talk to me about their formation and the sort of music that influences them; which approaching artist they need to get behind and what is top of their Christmas wish-lists.

I ask the guys if there are any albums especially important to them and whether there are tour dates coming up; what advice they’d give to rising musicians and whether they get chance to relax away from music.

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

Hey, there. We’re really fine, thanks. This week has been great so far. We have spent lots of time in the studio composing new tracks. What about you?

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

We are In My Days; an Indie-Pop band from Magdeburg, Germany.

Counting Up the Nights is new. Is there a story behind it?

Counting Up the Nights describes an exciting journey into the unknown, combined with the feeling of coming home. Like being caught in a time loop with an unattainable destination but still holding onto dreams.

How did In My Days get together? Did you bond over similar musical tastes?

We have been friends since childhood and started playing in a band at school. That sound was horrible. Fortunately, we have improved ourselves a bit. Haha.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew Halangk

In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

Bastille, Coldplay, Alt-J and many more. 

Might we see more material coming next year?

Yes, definitely. We are going to release a new single in spring 2019.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Dennis: It’s time for a new piano.

Charly: Cool boots for the stage.

Tino: Some friends.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Christoph Eisenmenger

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yeah, we are going to play a tour in several German cities in February. After that, we’re planning to release some new tracks. 

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

This summer, we really enjoyed playing on a huge stage in front of more than 10,000 people.

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

Dennis: Fenech-Soler – Zilla. Every track has its own story of wonderful moments. I have to thank these boys for those nice tracks.

Charly: In My Days – Dream Out Loud. Maybe it’s stupid to choose my own album but it has been a crazy experience composing and recording it.

Tino: There are too many tracks/albums that inspire me.

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  PHOTO CREDIT: Matthew Halangk

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Compose some tracks (maybe four-five), record them; play some newcomer contests and never stop being ambitious.

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

We do. We are going on the Dream Out Loud Tour - February 7th in Berlin; 8th in Cologne; 9th in Brunswick and on 10th in Hamburg.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Arionce

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Arionce is a pretty cool band from Berlin.

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

No, not really. At the moment, we don’t want to chill away because we have to do exciting university stuff.

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).

Dennis: Empire of the Sun – High and Low

Charly: Amber Run – I Found

Tino: Willie Nelson – On the Road Again

Thanks for having us,

Dennis, Charly & Tino.

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INTERVIEW: Hayes & Y

INTERVIEW:

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Hayes & Y

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 THE chaps of Hayes & Y have been telling me...

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about their single, BLUE, and what compelled it; whether there is anything more coming along and whether they have any favourite albums/artists; how the scene in Manchester has changed and what it is like now – they tell me when the band started life and look ahead.

I wanted to know whether they get time to chill away from music; which artists they’d support given the chance; what they want for Christmas and whether there are rising artists to look out for – they select some great songs to end things on.

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

Blago: Pretty great. Our new track came a month ago and we’re still enjoying the amount of attention it’s getting.

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

Ivo: We’re an Indie-Pop/Rock four-piece. Blago (vocals and rhythm guitar) Rado (lead guitar and keys) and myself, Ivo (bass guitar) all hail from the distant lands of Bulgaria and along with our Finnish drummer Dennis we have moved to the U.K. to soak up the music culture, get inspired and create some fine tunes. Even though we are sometimes labelled as Yacht-Pop or Rock, we don’t own any yachts. Dennis has a small boat though, so we are slowly getting there.

What is the story behind your new single, BLUE?

Ivo: It’s the product of our continuing efforts to take control of as much of the production process as we possibly can. It’s also a testament to our evolution as music creators. All in all it’s sort of the ultimate D.I.Y. project for us. Everything apart from the drums was recorded at our apartment in Manchester. We even converted our attic into a vocal booth to track the vocals. The artwork, created by the talented Sofiya Dobreva, was inspired by our trip to the Bulgarian seaside earlier this summer.

Blago: BLUE is about loneliness and imaginary friends. It’s a very ambitious track composition-wise, with very different and distinct mood changes.

Do you recall when the band started life? What attracted you to one another?

Ivo: Wow…that was so far back. We actually started playing together in high-school as a sort of something to keep us out of trouble and to pass the time after school. I think it’s because we grew up together that we had such an easy time getting along and starting the band. Our current drummer Dennis came on board three years ago while we were in London and, being a beast behind the drums as well as a naturally awesome dude, he immediately fit right in with us.

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If you were to select influences; which artists would be in the list?

Rado: We try to listen to as much music as possible and incorporate different concepts and ideas in our own songs. We can definitely list as inspirational and influential artists like The 1975, Fleetwood Mac; Blossoms, Parcels; Michael Jackson and many more.

Dennis: I find it funny how Ivo and I have very similar tastes in music, but they are very different from Rados and Blagos. But, this difference makes our approach to playing and coming up with parts and sounds for songs very interesting in my opinion. Ivo and I are very into Funk and Neo-Soul like Lettuce and Hiatus Kaiyote.

Manchester is where you are based. Is there a pretty good scene there at the moment? How has it changed the past few years?

Ivo: We’ve only been here for two years so far, so I can’t really say I’ve noticed any drastic changes. That being said, it is an awesome scene. We actually started off in London for a year and didn’t really take to the scene there, whereas Manchester is so much more personal, intimate and welcoming that we immediately felt at home. Not only that, but there’s so much amazing stuff happening here almost every night.

Blago: It’s a very cool place to be for a young band. There are so much other great bands here and we try to keep track of them all. We are pretty competitive and ambitious and think we can leave a mark in Manchester.

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As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Rado: I think we would all agree that we always need to improve on our gear, so anything coming that way would be great.

Blago: Musicians always want new toys to play with; the list is too long to even get started. I’m in the process of considering if keytars are cool or uncool.

Dennis: I wish to have enough money to go on vacation with my girlfriend, no snow in Finland during Christmas and world peace.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Ivo: We have a couple of shows lined up already: a trip to Bulgaria to play on 23rd March and also a gig at The Castle in N.Q., Manchester on 5th April. Not only that, but we’re also planning on visiting London, Leeds; York and Liverpool around that time as well. Then, after this sort of micro tour, we’ll be buckling down at our home studio to finish up and record at least two new songs.

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

Ivo: I’d have to say when we first found out that our song Always So Simple, Always So Cold was featured on BBC Introducing Manchester and then we promptly celebrated with one too many drinks at home.

Rado: I would have to mention our support slot for Kasabian at the biggest Bulgarian music festival in the summer of 2015. Definitely a milestone for us, which came a bit too early maybe - but it was a day to remember, amazing memories from there.

Blago: For me, it’d have to be one of our sold out gigs. There’s nothing like playing to a crowd of hundreds who have come just to watch you.

Dennis: For me, it is the same as Blagos. To play a gig full of fans that are there for you and them telling you after the gig how much it meant to them or how much they enjoyed it. Hearing that makes me super happy.

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

Rado: My first childhood memory from listening to music is The Wall by Pink Floyd and that baby crying in the beginning of The Thin Ice - it always made me think that someone is actually crying from the neighbours’ apartment. My parents got me into Pink Floyd when I was very little, so they remain my favourite band up to date and that album especially.

Blago: The 1975’s debut album opened my eyes and ears a lot. I haven’t listened to it in a few years, but back then it was really a game-changer. One of the best debuts of all time.

Dennis: Toxicity by System of a Down. This album really shaped my taste in music from the first time I heard at an early age. John Dolmayan used to be my favourite drummer and really influenced me as a kid. This album made me want to pick up my drumsticks and has contributed a lot to the drummer I am today.

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

Rado: Maybe The 1975. Their show is amazing. Here in the U.K., we’ve been to a lot of concerts and the support bands have been always well prepared and carefully selected to fit the main acts’ style.  

Blago: We’d love to support a local band like Blossoms. They are one of our faves and it would be a great occasion. As for the rider, if we could support someone like that, we’d be perfectly fine to not even have one.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Rado: We’ve been a band for a while now and I think the most important thing is to be focused and have a goal that you strive to achieve. What has kept us as a band, apart from being friends for a long time, is that we always set targets and little milestones that constantly keep us moving and improve us as a group of musicians.

Dennis: Practice, network and just don’t be an asshole (smiles).

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

Ivo: As mentioned above, we have some tour dates lined up for 2019 already. But, for the more curious and impatient you can catch us at the Night & Day Café in Manchester on 4th December.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Parcels

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ivo: I’m a huge fan of Parcels. Even got the chance to watch them live here at the Academy a couple of weeks back. Phenomenally funky!

Rado: Yeah. We were all at this concert; it was a great one! I recently got into No Vacation. Chilled vibe and really nice guitar melodies there. Yam Yam is my favourite of theirs.

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IN THIS PHOTO: No Vacation/PHOTO CREDIT: Christine Ting

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

Ivo: Personally, I like to read fantasy novels and play video games even though I sometimes get carried away a tad with the latter.

Rado: I am into sports, so I enjoy watching football games or even play it myself if I have to chance to.

Dennis: Being from Finland, and always being surrounded by nature, I love unwinding by going fishing and being in the forest; picking berries and mushrooms. Unfortunately, you can’t really do that in London - so here I mostly watch movies and do a lot of practice on drums.

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).

Ivo: Tom Misch (ft. De La Soul) – It Runs Through Me

Rado: The Neighbourhood - R.I.P. 2 My Youth

Blago: Parcels – Gamesofluck

Dennis: Hidden Orchestra – Dust

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INTERVIEW: Nominjin

INTERVIEW:

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Nominjin

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I have been speaking with Nominjin...

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about her career and how she came into music. She has been telling me about her latest track, Kiss Me at Midnight, and how it came together; what sort of sounds/influences have affected her and whether we might see some more material coming along.

She reveals a few albums that are important to her and talks about her heritage; whether there are plans in place for next year and when she knew music was the career path for her – Nominjin picks a classic track to end things with.

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

I’m doing wonderful. Thank you for asking. I’ve had a fantastic week recording at the studio and we also wrapped up production of my upcoming music video for my single, Kiss Me at Midnight. The single drops on Nov 30th worldwide and the music video will be released in the middle of December this year.

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

Hi, everyone. My name is Nominjin. I’m a Soul, Pop and R&B singer-songwriter based in Los Angeles. I started my career at age twelve and since then I’ve performed in more than fifteen countries. I was born in Mongolia and raised by an American father and Mongolian mother. Growing up, I was exposed to many different cultures and learned at an early age to recognize myself as a global citizen. I lived in countries such as Russia, Caribbean; India and the United States. I am in awe of the inherent beauty in all the people and cultures that I had the privilege of spending the formative years of my childhood.

Some of the highlights of my music career are being in a John Lennon tribute album by EMI at age sixteen and also being in an EMI love song compilation album alongside multi-platinum selling artists such as Norah Jones, Christina Aguilera and Toni Braxton. Also, thanks to my ability to sing in many languages and genres; I had solo performances in five-ten languages at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium and Lincoln Center’s David Geffen Hall.

It was also a great honor to be invited to perform at the Gala Concert at Llangollen with the Welsh National Opera Orchestra where legendary vocalists such as Pavarotti previously performed at. I was also appointed by South Korea’s Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se as a Public Diplomacy Envoy and worked with the Korean government for two years.

 

Kiss Me at Midnight is your latest single. How did the song start life?

It all started with a melody. I said to myself: “Hmmm...this has a little bit of a Latin influence”. Not sure where it came from but I like letting the songs flow out of me instead of setting out to write a specific song. So, I roped in my father who speaks fluent Spanish to help me come up with the line “La vida nos inspira”. Then, I wrote the English lyrics and turned it into a song about dancing all night with the love of your life.

As the producer; I had to challenge myself and figure out a vocal and musical arrangement that would build upon the melody to create a sound that is Soul/R&B with a dash of Latin. So, I sat down with my arranger/co-producer and told him that I wanted a production that is musically rich and super-old-school.

Are you thinking ahead to an E.P. or album? Is Kiss Me at Midnight the start of a new project?

Kiss Me at Midnight is a start of a new project. My upcoming E.P., Free Soul, is a tribute to the classic American Soul/R&B and traditional Pop music that I grew up listening to because of my American father. I’m the creative director of the entire project overseeing every aspect of the music production and vocal production. I’m so blessed to have complete creative freedom in this project and to have collaborated with a great team of co-writers and arrangers.

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Can you give me an idea of the artists, older and new, who inspire you and compel your own sound?

Growing up, I loved listening to and learning from artists such as Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder; Etta James, Aretha Franklin; Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston. I love contemporary household names such as Alicia Keys and Bruno Mars. My writing is mostly influenced by the classic Soul and Pop sounds of America. When you listen to Free Soul you might hear that my songwriting style is inspired by the love songs of The Great American Songbook and I add a twist of Soul/R&B to that.

You found music early and have been performing since you were a child. Was there a moment you knew music was for you?

I started singing when I was a year and a half. I remember, when I was eleven-years-old, I declared to my parents that I’m going become a professional singer. I saw that being an entertainer is a wonderful way to make the world a brighter place. So, I’ve been working hard ever since and haven’t had a summer break since I was eleven.

I became really popular in Mongolia during my teen years and learned to use my celebrity as a tool to give back to the community. I wasn’t driven by the urge to become famous but was motivated by the desire to be in a position that allows me to give everything I have, including my talents.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Well. I’m very excited to be releasing my new songs to the world. Free Soul is coming early-2019. I’m also working on writing and producing more songs to be shared with everyone. Besides promoting my original content, I’ll also be more active on YouTube and will be covering songs for my fans.

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

Wow. There are too many to choose from. I’d say the most memorable moments are the times when you perform live in front of an audience. Seeing smiles on people’s faces or tears in their eyes when they are touched is what make me want to keep up my training and put on a better performance than the last.

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

That’s a tricky question because there are countless masterpieces that I’ve enjoyed over the years. I’d say the following three albums had a deep influence on my upcoming E.P. At the Close of a Century by Stevie Wonder has all the collection of mind-blowing songs by him you can’t miss. I’m in so much awe of Stevie Wonder’s songwriting and singing. Bodyguard (soundtrack) by Whitney Houston was a huge influence for me as a singer as well. Frank Sinatra’s Greatest Hits. Because it awakened the romantic songwriter in me.

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As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present, what would it be?

I would like to keep developing my ability to be content in any situation. I really believe that peace of mind is the key to true and lasting happiness. I would also like to include everyone else in this Christmas wish of mine. May all beings live in everlasting joy and love.

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

Oh. It would be a dream to open for Bruno Mars who is bringing back and re-introducing old-school music to the younger generation.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be fearless and authentic in your art. Be unapologetically yourself. Then, go find the audience that resonates with the sound that comes from your soul. I have written Rumi-style lyrics and music when I was nineteen-years-old because that is what came out of me at that time. Don’t be afraid to evolve and change and grow - and never allow yourself to be defined by one thing. Art is about freedom and being completely creative. There is no right or wrong.

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

There aren’t any tour dates set at the moment. I’m currently putting together a live show and I hope to get on the road soon.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Ella Mai

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been so busy writing and recording so I haven’t had the chance to discover many new artists. But, I am enjoying Ella Mai’s voice these days.

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

When I was a little girl, a fellow musician and singer told me that, if I think of music as work I will never enjoy being an artist. So, I try to create music from a space of upliftment and joy; which means I don’t necessarily feel like I need to chill away from music. I also don’t listen or follow musical trends but focus mostly on going inward and bringing forth the melodies that comes out of my heart.

Most of my musical ideas are born when I’m unwinding and alone in my creative space. I love hanging out in nature, meditating and doing yoga. Last year, I had a two-month creative retreat in the mountains of Taiwan.

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).

Please play Spanish Harlem by the incomparable Aretha Franklin. Forever the Queen of Soul

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INTERVIEW: Moderate Rebels

INTERVIEW:

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Moderate Rebels

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MY one and only interview of the day...

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is with Moderate Rebels who have been talking about their new track, The Value of Shares, and the album, Shared Values; the artists and sounds that inspire them and how the band found one another – they recommend some rising artists.

I ask what they have planned going forward and whether there are any gigs coming up; the advice they’d give to emerging acts and whether they get chance to chill away from music – the group select some great music to end the interview with.

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

Hello. We're well. We're doing a couple of gigs and the album is coming out - it's a good week. 

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

We’re a bunch of friends who get together (whoever is available at that moment - so the line-up can up to nine or ten people in different combinations) to make noise we like. We intend to think, or try, as little as possible about it so it feels very natural.

The Value of Shares is your new track. Can you explain the story behind it?

Like a lot of things so far, we just did it…then we tried to find out what it meant. That’s a fun exercise. We have theories but it’s much more fun to hear what anyone else thinks it’s about.

Shared Values is the album. Are there particular themes that inspired it?

We think we’re living in an era when lots of people feel they have lots of questions (perhaps  that’s every era?) and we seem to touch upon that. Doubt, uncertainty; vague language, conflicting information and opinions are all inspirations. 

Do you recall when Moderate Rebels got together? What is the secret of the band’s solidity and longevity?

We did one song and did one gig and then things took on a life of their own. By not being solid (flexible line up) and having no long-term plan, apart from making some music we like, perhaps that helps us work quickly and have fun with it. I’m sure it’s different for everyone.

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In terms of music; which artists are you drawn to?

You can imagine, across ten people who like music, that there is no easy answer to this question. We could give some names but they would be true for some people and not for others. It’s a big mix up and we don’t really worry about it.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything? 

Surprises are always good, generally. We like people using their imagination.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Next Moderate Rebels album is well under way and it could well be a double-album. Ideas don’t seem to be a problem just now.

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

It’s always a good feeling when you hear a song you did on the radio next to people whose records you buy. Live shows have all been fun, too. The first gig, especially, when we played the only song we had at the time (God Sent Us) for twenty-eight minutes continuously could have gone really badly, but the crowd really went with it.  

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

Blood Orange has been pretty popular with some of us this year. Great, modern Soul record. Again, though, this is a big question for ten people and, honestly, we’ve never really talked about it. We just do stuff; we don’t really discuss the reasons why or the influences we have.

We’d spend most of our time talking if we did.

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

St. Vincent would be fun. We’d ask for a quick guitar lesson from her. She makes it look very easy.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t take anyone’s advice about anything: make your own way and see how you feel about it.

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

5th Dec: Aces and Eights Saloon Bar, London 

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Gelatine (in Glasgow) we liked recently. Uncle Tesco are great as well.

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

If we are playing music, in the right way for us, then it should be relaxing to play (doesn’t have to be necessarily relaxing in sound). If we feel we need to unwind from playing music then something is going wrong somewhere.

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).

Gorgeous Bully - I’ll be True

Planningtorock - Beulah Loves Dancing

Death in Vegas – Dirge

Little Simz - Boss

Uncle Tesco - Meal Deal

Spacemen 3 - Dreamweapon

Sophie Hunger - I Opened a Bar

Crass - Merry Crassmas

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INTERVIEW: River Meets Sea

INTERVIEW:

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River Meets Sea

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IT has been great...

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talking with River Meets Sea about their debut track, Won’t You Stay, and how it came together. I was curious to know if there is more material coming next year and what they have coming up – they recommend some rising artists that we need to have a listen to.

I ask what their favourite memories are and whether they get time to chill away from music; what one Christmas present they would each like and the albums that are important to them – they select a great song to end things on.

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

It’s been a great week, thanks! We’ve just released our debut single and video, Won’t You Stay, which we are really excited about! We have put a lot of work into it and it feels great to finally show what we have been up to.

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

We are River Meets Sea; a four-piece ambient Indie-Rock band. Joe Osborne is the lead singer and guitarist. Liam Lovegrove also plays the guitar, giving the tracks their atmospheric feel, as well as contributing to backing vocals with Luke Remon, who is the group’s bassist. Jamie Howard is on the drums laying down the beats. All four of us come from different parts of the country with different musical backgrounds, which we like to try and incorporate into the music we do.

Won’t You Stay is your new track. Is there a story behind it?

The song is about living in London and how lonely it can be. It’s about how cold the city can feel but also how freeing too and the tension between those two aspects. It’s about trying to decide whether to leave a situation or to stay put.

Might we see more material next year?

Of course! We already have another couple of tracks lined up ready to be released early next year. We are in the planning stages of a creating music video for our next single, which we hope to release around February/March.

How did River Meets Sea get together? Were you bonded by similar tastes in music?

Joe, Jamie, and Luke all met at university. We met at uni all playing in different-styled bands or solo work. Except Liam…he came out of nowhere. The styles of music we all played differed from each other, but it was the love of music itself that brought us together.  

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If you were to select influences; which artists would be in the list?

It would be such a big list of influences we all have, ranging from Folk, Hip-Hop; Punk Rock, Indie and Soul. Musically, you can hear a lot of Ben Howard, Tycho; Hammock, This Will Destroy You and Bob Dylan influences in our music.

As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Joe: Good Question. I’d like a house.

Jamie: I’d never say no to some new speakers. I want to feel that heavy bass.

Luke: I need to get some tattoos covered up. Tattoo fixers, where you at?

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

As well as releasing a new single in early-2019, we will be doing shows throughout the year around the U.K. and, hopefully, Europe too. We have also started writing some new material that we are all feeling really strong about. We will be going into the studio to record it.

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

Joe: Seeing Dylan in 2011.

Jamie: Watching A Tribe Called Quest’s final show was pretty special. Also, performing live on national German T.V. was a pretty crazy experience!

Luke: The first time I saw the Pixies, they ended with Into the White and they filled the venue with white smoke!

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

At this moment, the only date we have confirmed is Saturday, 1st December at the Tooting Tram & Social. We are playing a headline show to celebrate the release of our new single Won’t You Stay. We will be announcing more shows in the New Year.

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

Joe: I Forget Where We Were - Ben Howard. It's probably as close to a perfect album as I can think of. Listening to it is therapeutic, uplifting; devastating, never-boring and always thought-provoking, all at the same time. Musically, it's a masterpiece.

Luke: I can think of two; the first one being (A Tribe Called Quest) The Low End Theory. I didn’t really listen to much Hip-Hop before this, but Jamie put it on in his car once and it completely opened my eyes up to the genre.

The other one would by ...And Out Come the Wolves by Rancid. It was the first album I became obsessed with and got me into loads of good Punk-Rock.

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

It’s a different genre, but supporting Anderson .Paak seems like it would be a riot.

Our rider would have loads of cheese, grapes; hummus and Tzatziki. Probably, a few bottles of expensive wine from the South of France. We want our backstage feeling like we’re in Monaco.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Keep it consistent and don't give up. Make sure you have the basics covered and do as much as you can yourself. The music industry is setting itself up with a more D.I.Y. mentality.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: The Beths/PHOTO CREDIT: Mason Fairey

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

There are loads of great artists out there! The Beths, Sam Fender; Ivy Sole, Gus Dapperton; Cedric Burnside and Thelma Ball just to name a few.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Ivy Sole

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

Joe: Going to the gym and escaping to quiet places in the countryside.

Luke: Going on Bumble.

Jamie: Skateboarding when the weather’s warm and going on Luke’s Bumble.

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

I Have Lost My Pearls by Gus Dapperton

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INTERVIEW: Jay Putty

INTERVIEW:

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Jay Putty

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I have started today by speaking...

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with Jay Putty about his new single, Trouble, and what its story is. He talks to me about his musical influences and a few albums that are particularly special; what he has coming up next year and whether there are any rising artists we need to have a look out for.

Putty provides advice to new artists and tells me how he spends time away from music; what the music scene is like in Nashville and what sort of music he grew up around – he ends the interview by selecting a cool track.

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

I’m fantastic! Just starting the day with my coffee and dogs.

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

My name is Jay Putty. A dog-rescuing, coffee-loving; Acoustic-Pop artist from Nashville, Tennessee.

Trouble is your new single. Can you explain the story behind the track?

So. That song came to be writing with some writers here in town that I’ve written quite a few songs with not just for me...and I wanted to write a song that summed up how I feel about my wife, whom I just recently married. I really just wanted write something about how, even if it’s hard work, finding that one you want to be with is worth all of it.

You have already achieved a couple of top-ten releases. How important is that sort of success and recognition?

It’s weird because it’s important in the sense that it helps legitimize yourself as an artist but with or without that validation the song would still be the same. It’s humbling to be able to achieve at all but it’s just the power of the support I’ve received from people which is flooring.

Did you grow up around a lot of music? Which artists did you follow at a young age?

I grew up fairly sheltered with Journey, the Eagles and contemporary worship music, but it wasn’t until I heard John Mayer on the radio that I was like: ‘Whoa, what is this and how can I do it too?!’. Which led to Metal, Pop-Punk and other bands; finding myself as a solo artist four years ago doing Pop and eventually coming back to what inspired me in the first place.

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Being based in Nashville; how important are the city and its musical heritage regarding your ambitions?

That’s another, almost-loaded, question because Nashville is known as the home of Country music, which I can’t deny parts come out in the songwriting but I myself don’t fit into that category of music or the circle. The Pop scene here is great and growing but I’m also too ‘Country’-sounding to fit in there.

So, it’s a great musical city that challenges me and surrounds me with incredible people but also is somewhere I don’t feel like I have a home yet, musically, which that musical discomfort I think really helps sharpen my sound.

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

Trouble is marking the last release of the year for me and, honestly, I’ve almost tripled what I had done a year ago this year. So I think, by the end of this year, I wanted to watch this song grow into itself while taking December off to enjoy the holidays. I can worry about next year, next year.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

There’s stuff on the table like a European tour hitting the U.K., Ireland; France and more that we are finalizing - as well as two singles with an album. I’m finally glad that we are finalizing tour dates and hitting the road mostly.  

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

Man. I remember the first time I heard my song on the radio on Kiss FM. I was taken completely aback and thought to myself if this reaches one person and hits them the way it is me I could die a happy man.

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

John Mayer - A Room for Squares. The first time hearing Why Georgia absolutely changed my life.

The Greatest Showman Soundtrack. My wife walked down the aisle to Rewrite the Stars. I can’t listen to it without crying now.

Ed Sheeran - +. That album sparked something in me when I was writing all this other kind of music. It called to the soul of the artist I could be instead of who I was trying to be.

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

That is so difficult to choose who I would but, if I had to, it would be John Mayer. My rider would be super-simple. Food for my kickass band that plays with me - because they make me sound good - and a place to decompress after playing

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write every chance you get, even if it sucks. You have to write the bad songs to get to the good ones. You have to write the good ones to get to the great ones.

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

No tour dates right now but, come 2019; I’m hitting the road hard.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jonny Zywiecel

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jonny Zywiecel, Khalil Poore; Khiana Meyer and Pagentri. They are absolutely incredible.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Pagentri

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

I try to get time away, but my wife calls me a workaholic because I don’t know how to disconnect. But, when I do, I love to cook and go to the movies.

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).

Check out Jonny Z - Hard to Breathe

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Follow Jay Putty

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INTERVIEW: Jon Pattie

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mario Devon 

Jon Pattie

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THANKS to Jon Pattie...

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for speaking about his single, Won’t Be Young, and details about his new E.P., Reflections, Vol. 1. I ask what music he grew up around and which rising artists we need to watch; a few albums that mean the most to him and what is coming next year.

Pattie talks about the music coming out of Texas and what he wants for Christmas; if he gets time to chill away from music and which artist he’d support given the chance – he ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hey, y’all! I am doing great, thank you for asking! My week has been busy from dawn to dusk. Between a day job, my music and managing my own physical and mental health, there’s always a lot to do in a day. But I love it!

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

Sure thing! I am a Texas-bred, Nashville-based Indie-Pop singer-songwriter. I started my career in Austin, TX while attending The University of Texas at Austin but relocated to Nashville in 2018 to begin my newest series of releases, Reflections. My music is all about finding your path in life, developing who you are as a person and achieving your dreams.

Won’t Be Young is your latest single and has garnered a lot of praise. How did it come together and what inspired it?

Won’t Be Young was actually the first song I wrote when I began seriously pursuing a career in music. I wrote it while I was working an internship in Chemical Engineering - the degree I was pursuing in college. I was struggling with the realization that I wasn’t on the path I was meant to be on. I released a demo version of the track in 2015 but decided to bring it back and revamp the song with a new energy with the help of my producer, Josh Hastick. It felt like a fitting song to begin this new chapter of my life as it relates to me now as it did when I first wrote it. The sound of the song was inspired by some of the guitarists and musicians I look up to like Tom Misch and John Mayer.

It is from the E.P., Reflections, Vol. 1. Are there connected and personal stories that inspired the music?

Absolutely! Each song relates to different self-discoveries I made over the course of the last few years. As mentioned earlier, Won’t Be Young is about discovering my true path in life and how long it will take me to get there. Reflections was inspired by some family issues and personal issues I was struggling with and the realization that, if I wanted to keep moving forward, I had to let go of my past and let go of the struggles I was holding onto.

Lastly, State of Mind talks about how we only have one life and one opportunity to pursue our goals and dreams so we should make the most of it. It also talks about my lack of happiness with where I was but I know where my happiness is.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mario Devon 

What sort of music did you grow up around? Which artists inspired you to get into music?

I grew up listening to a mix of top-40 and Pop-Punk/Metalcore music. My parents listened to the radio a lot so that was very present in my life but the first artist I really connected with was Sum 41. I learned two of their albums, Underclass Hero and Chuck, in their entirety on guitar! I was in a few bands throughout high-school where we played music similar to All Time Low, Fall Out Boy; Sleeping With Sirens, Pierce the Veil and a lot of other bands in that same vein.

I was always very inspired by some of today’s great Metal guitarists like Misha Mansoor, Tosin Abasi and Tim Henson as well. It wasn’t until the last few years that I really got into Singer-Songwriter and Blues-Pop music. I’ve always been songwriting since I first picked up the guitar though!

As a Texas native; how much of the state’s music impacted you? Do you drawn a lot from the music of Texas?

Honestly, not too much. There are a handful of artists from my local town that I listened to - including Forever the Sickest Kids and Polyphia – but, with YouTube, iTunes and Spotify, it was always very easy for me to find artists from all over the world whom I was drawn to.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mario Devon 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yup! I’ve got a lot of stuff in the works including more tours, a YouTube cover series and lots of writing! I’m planning to be in the studio in early-2019 to start recording for Reflections: Vol. II.

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

Honestly, this past tour has been phenomenal. A lot of the shows I played at, I was able to see friends that I hadn’t in a long time and perform my new music for them. It was exhilarating! Specifically, my show at Opening Bell Coffee in Dallas, TX and The Foundation Room - House of Blues in Houston, TX were incredible. I am going to remember the shows for a long time!

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

Good question!

Continuum by John Mayer has been really close to me considering how much influence his songwriting and guitar playing has on my style. Forest Hills Drive by J. Cole is another album I’ve always enjoyed. J. Cole is an amazing lyricist! The last album would have to be Infinity on High by Fall Out Boy. I grew up listening to them and that’s just a classic album I could never get tired of.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

If I had to ask for one present it would absolutely be a subscription to the Headspace app. I’ve been using it for a while now for meditation but haven’t been able to upgrade due to the cost of Pro. I’d love to explore the other capabilities within it!

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

Right now, I’d love to support Ed Sheeran. His live performance is captivating and I would like to be a part of it! As for my rider, I really don’t need much besides water, peanut butter and a quiet space to meditate!

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PHOTO CREDIT: Mario Devon 

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

I have a writer’s round booked on November 29th at Commodore Bar & Grille but, for the most part, I am prepping for 2019! I will be booking a whole slew of new shows for the next year!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stick with it. It’s going to take a while to really start finding your fans and getting into the groove of what the music industry takes nowadays but, if you’re passionate, patient, and willing to learn, you will go far.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Sam Hale

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Absolutely! Sam Hale is an incredible Alt-Rock-pop artist who is also based here in Nashville. I was able to tour with him and his live set is pretty stellar. You can definitely check out Tobe Nwigwe from Houston, TX as well. He’s an upcoming powerhouse!

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IN THIS PHOTO: Tobe Nwigwe

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

Not really. Honestly...music is my lifeblood and it’s all I ever want to do with my time. I will take the occasional break here and there in order to keep my sanity, though! That usually includes meditation or watching an episode of a series on Hulu.

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

Well, thank you very much! Check out Can’t Take It by Sam Hale! It gets stuck in my head constantly, in a good way

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Follow Jon Pattie

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INTERVIEW: The Thin Cherries

INTERVIEW:

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The Thin Cherries

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IT has been good speaking with The Thin Cherries...

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about their new album, On Moose Island, and how it came together. They talk about the recording process and how the band got together; the albums and sounds that inspire them and where they head next.

I was keen to know which rising artists we should watch and whether the band get time away from music to chill; if the guys have favourite memories from their career and the advice they would give to emerging musicians.

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

Mark Lofgren: Hectic! A quick trip to Detroit to see family; just beat the bad weather on the road.

Steven Delisi: I’m doing well - although it has been a crazy week and I’m tired from raking the Trump national forest all day. 

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

Mark: I’ve played in the Psych/Pop band The Luck of Eden Hall for the better part of the last thirty years. We’ve toured and released some well-regarded albums, but have more of a cult following. I do some video editing and motion graphics work to make ends meet.

Steven: I’m the rhythm guitarist and co-writer with The Thin Cherries. I say co-writer, because we intend to pivot to a sitcom after the New Year begins. I will play the chauffeur.

How did The Thin Cherries form? When did you all meet one another?

Mark: Steven Delisi and I formed the Thin Cherries two years ago, when we realized we collaborated well on each other’s tunes. I’d been friends with Steve for many years prior, when I was actually his instructor at a design college...

Steven: Our band started out as a project for two songwriters; Mark Lofgren and I realized we had a lot in common as far as influences and maybe the approach to recording. After Mark put out his solo album back in 2014, I mentioned the idea to do something together. But it took until just a couple years ago for us to start on the project. We initially started at Mark’s apartment studio – recording demos, in which the process was essentially helping each other complete song ideas. Often it would be something simple, like one of us offering a counter melody or a riff to a pretty well developed song. Or, it would be something structural like a bridge idea or changing things around to make the song more unusual.

We had a great time; meeting for coffee on Saturday mornings then getting to work at his place. After a few months, we reached out to Mark’s friend to collaborate further - a guy who plays many instruments - and had access to a rehearsal space with limited recording gear. That’s Darren Shepherd, our lead guitarist, who we brought demos to and eventually we recorded bass, guitars and drums to start the record. Darren actually plays the drums on quite a few tracks that we started on at Mark’s apartment. Later, he added a lot of amazing guitar stuff once we had basic tracks in place. During one tracking session, Darren’s friend Gabe stopped by, liked what we were up to and ended up playing with us on a few tracks. We had such a good time that we kept meeting and recording a few new tracks each weekend. We bonded pretty quickly and soon our goal was to ‘put out a record’ and just see what happens.   

On Moose Island is your latest album. What sort of themes inspired the record?

Mark: Although it’s certainly not a concept album, we wanted to mix and match some retro keyboard sounds and Electronica touches with straight-ahead Pop and sideways psychedelic vibes. To me, the album has a lot of variety but really holds together and has a dense but not heavy sound. Lyrically, there are some darker themes of isolation and anxiety mixed with some happier vibes of old friendships rekindled and road trips (…perhaps even to Moose Island!).

Steven: Initially, we were just preoccupied with capturing a more live sound that represents how we evolved as a full band and not a production of our songs. So, I think a theme for the record emerged as one about being a band. As Mark puts it, we came up with the album title track to reflect this idea of a mythical island somewhere where we all lived together and played music; a weird David Lynch-like town with quirky locals and unusual wildlife and one diner where all the townsfolk congregated in to discuss their daily lives. 

As this stuck, we started making ‘moose’ jokes and thought about ways to present the ideas visually. Near completion of the album, we employed Mark’s friend Jim Laugelli, a great artist, who did the brilliant cover painting of On Moose Island. I’m also working on a music video that is a collage of old 16mm footage that my parents made before I was born.  

Did you change a lot up since your debut? Was there a different approach when you stepped into the studio?

Mark: Steven and I basically wrote and recorded the first album as a duo to start. We brought our friend Darren Shepherd in to play some drums and additional guitar and he recruited his drummer friend Gabe Palomo to play drums live and finish off the album. Now, we have Birdie Soti on board playing keys and Sophie Senard singing some back-up and playing accordion. With On Moose Island, it was a real collaborative affair; recording a lot of the tracks together live in the studio. Steven and I wrote most of the framework for the songs and Darren added an awesome, beautiful track of his own, Steadfast Arranger.

Steven: So, again we were in the middle of changing from what was a recording project for two songwriters (our debut was the end product) to a full band effort in which everyone contributed ideas, direction and even songs. We recorded a few songs by our lead guitarist, Darren. Steadfast Arranger ended up on the album - a departure of sorts that is more personal, haunting and really beautiful! 

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Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Mark: We certainly have common touchstones with some classic and modern British Pop and Psych music mixed with some Folk and Americana. Gabe, our drummer, is also an Electronica fan and a well-known D.J., so I love incorporating some of that on the new album and future releases.

Steven: It was important for us to get our drummer Gabe more involved creatively as he is a producer of Dance and Techno music. Our current single, I Don’t Know You All, is the result a drunken idea Mark came up with after rehearsal in which Gabe quickly ‘threw down’ beats and they went from that point shaping a Dance track. The rest of us added instruments later and we sort of fulfilled our desire for a more organic approach to producing music that starts from a melody idea and not someone’s already written song. We’ll be working this way moving forward, drawing from other influences. I know, on this one, we were inspired by bands we grew up with like New Order and other artists that produced dance music.

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As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Mark: A vinyl release for the album and some worldwide distribution would be a dream! But I’d settle for some for positivity in the world overall and some good old-fashioned peace, love and understanding for a change.

Steven: I would like a nice vintage Gibson or Epiphany hollow body electric guitar!  I’ve been relying on the one wonderful Fender Stratocaster for years.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Mark: Playing some local and Midwest U.S. shows to support the album. We’ll probably do a couple music videos as well and starting to work on new music this coming summer. We’d love to someday tour Europe. I love it over there and the Luck of Eden Hall has had a blast playing in the UK in the past.

Steven: The plan for 2019 is to get better as a band and write and record more music! Hopefully, we’ll be productive enough to make another album or at least an E.P. That might be the way to go.

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

Mark: Again, the several U.K. tours I did with my other band were awesome and I’d love to repeat the fun with The Thin Cherries someday. Also, having The Luck of Eden Hall open for the Psychedelic Furs at a festival here in the States a few years back was a blast. I really loved their music  when I was younger and meeting band leader Richard Butler was great.

Steven: My favorite memory so far is the first time we recorded basic tracks at Kingsize Sound Labs in Chicago - the amazing studio of our friend and co-producer Mike Hagler. I’ll never forget going up to the mixing loft after tracking bass, guitars, keyboards and drums then hearing Mike’s initial mix just to know what we got. The sound was so big and amazing tonally! I knew we were on to something fun and special.

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

Mark: Oh man, is that a tough one! I’m going to have to go old school though and say Scary Monsters and Super Creeps by David Bowie. That whole album has a mysterious, powerful feel. Eno’s production is amazing; Bowie was a genius and Ashes to Ashes is one of my favorite all time songs (still gives me chills when I listen to it, just like when I heard it when I was a kid).

Steven: On Moose Island is super-important to me. It feels like we put together a record that reflects not just our tastes and influences but more of our creative expression as a group. We’re not there yet, but it’s a big step forward.

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

Mark: To play bass for Robyn Hitchcock and my rider would be to hang out with him and listen to his stories! Or tour with The Kinks and hang out backstage!

Steven: I would really like to support Future Islands on a tour. I just really like their music and they seem to be super-nice guys.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Mark: Do it for the love of the music and the art of it all, not chasing money or success or the pressure of making it. Herman Melville died broke and unappreciated and Moby Dick was considered a failure in his lifetime. You never know who or when your music might reach or touch someone. Just follow your heart and write the best music you can and put it out there, even if it seems like you’re working in a vacuum sometimes!

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

Mark: We’ll be playing some Midwest U.S. shows after the holidays, so stay tuned!

Steven: We’re not touring extensively at this point. I hope in 2019 we can at least do a Michigan brewery tour that we sometimes talk about. We love beer. For now, we play out at various clubs and venues in Chicago.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Cloud Nothings

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Mark: Cloud Nothings have been around a few years and are raw and amazing Indie/Noise-Rock. I also love Wild Nothing who have a few albums and an '80s vibe. Also, I really like the quirky indie pop of Frankie Cosmos.

Steven: My favorite artist/band for the last two years has been Slaves. They draw cleverly on influential bands from their native England without any obviousness and they really have a cool sound and style that is all their own that supports their absurdly funny and much-needed political message; just two nice guys who care so much about their audience. In an odd way, they remind me of Style Council.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Slaves

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

Mark: I play sports on some different teams…basketball and baseball mostly (I suppose across the pond I’d be playing football and cricket!).

Steven: We don’t chill much away from music…too busy working and what not. I play soccer as much as possible for a middle-aged knuckle-head but we have pretty fun times together when we can, during or after rehearsals. Usually, it involves drinking 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)?

Mark: That’s When I Reach for My Revolver by Mission of Burma; one of my favorite influential '80s Punk/Pop tracks and it seems right for the times… 

Steven: My Ever Changing Moods - The Style Council

Thanks!

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Follow The Thin Cherries

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INTERVIEW: Imperial Daze

INTERVIEW:

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Imperial Daze

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I have been speaking with Imperial Daze...

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about their new single, Man Out of Myself, and what its story is. I learn how the band got together and whether they share the same music tastes; which albums are most important to them and what next year holds.

The guys talk about gigs and artists to watch; how they spend time outside of music and which artist they’d support if they had the chance – they each select a great song to end things with.

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

On a bit of a caffeine high writing this, listening to Nilla Pizzi; feeling somewhat romantic, a tad hungry. The week has been great. We played a stripped back show at Soho House on Monday. On Tuesday, we met with director extraordinaire Nathan Sam Long to talk about future film work and with Rupert Jarvis (of Maccabees fame) to talk about the next set of recordings we are making in our Electric Eel Studio. Today (Wednesday) we are rehearsing for our show in Margate at Elsewhere this weekend.

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

We are a four-piece European band made up of Alex, Felix; Facundo and Tom. We like our music to groove; the sounds to be expansive and cinematic and the vocals to croon and be delivered with gusto.

Man Out of Myself is your new track. Is there a story behind the song?

The chorus of the song came out from a (very) late-night jam session with ex-bandmate Blain McGuigan back in 2016. It was a natural singalong for us all. I (Alex) then took the song home to my kitchen and the verses appeared to me whilst messing around on my Technics organ. It’s a picture of a relationship I had at the time and my musings on it.

Might there be more material coming next year?

There will be a lot of singles next year. Maybe an E.P.

I believe Imperial Daze found one another in late-2016 where you set up your own studio. Did you start playing music together before then?

We played in different bands previously and decided to set up a studio together when these bands disbanded. At the time, the idea was to under no condition start a new band! We wanted to release E.P.s of lots of different projects simultaneously but, somehow, things didn’t pan out that way. Having one good idea is hard enough and, unless you’re Damon Albarn, having five seems like black magic.

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Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

We absolutely share similar tastes. We don’t agree on everything but these differences can bring really interesting things to the table. Overall, our main influences as a band would be Tame Impala, Grizzly Bear; Damon Albarn, Ed Banger records, old Surf records and modern London Jazz.

Is it true you made a bit of money for writing music for a PlayStation 4 advert?! Was that pretty cool?!

That was the paycheck that enabled us to start the first studio space that birthed the project so, yes, it was incredibly cool! Since then, we’ve written regularly for film and advert. It’s what funds this band. We are incredibly D.I.Y. in that aspect of what we do.

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

Get our latest releases into the eyes and ears of a greater audience; slay our upcoming shows and record the next batch of singles in our own Electric Eel studio.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Sell out our next London show at Sebright Arms on 13th Feb. Keep releasing singles, making films and selling out bigger and bigger venues in London and Paris.

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

Selling out our first London headline at The Waiting Room at the start of November was really special for us. The response from the crowd really humbled us and made us feel very loved indeed.

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

Facundo: The Dark Side of The Moon by Pink Floyd

It changed everything for me from the first listen. I met Roger Waters two weeks after that first listen as I was in a children’s choir singing on one of his records. At the time, I had no idea it was the same guy!

Felix: Kid A by Radiohead

It was the only album I had during a long summer as a teenager, stranded with my Discman. It was the first time I realized how production can impact the listening experience.

Alex: Blonde by Frank Ocean

I love how this record doesn’t follow any direct rulebook of genre or style but simply tells the story of a character through pure musical honesty. Everything feels so cinematic and adventurous to me. Ultimately, the life of Frank Ocean feels so relatable to me on this record even though our lives are nothing alike. That’s a mad impressive feat to pull off.

Tom: Black Focus by Yussef Kamaal

It showed me what you can do with spontaneity on a record: keeping the errors in and making the whole thing feel very human and vulnerable. It also opened a world of experimental Jazz to me.

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

Tame Impala. Cucumber sandwiches cut into triangles, fresh socks and a bottle of Campari.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Try and figure out what you want your project to represent from the get-go. As an artist, you can have many sides to your output - but every project should be honed to precision so its identity is easy to convey.

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

06.12.2018: Moles in Bath

13.02.2019: Sebright Arms in London

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jazzboy

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ryder The Eagle, Tin Foil Astronaut; Jazzboy, HEZEN; III Maury III, Desert Mountain Tribe; Living Island and The Jesse Doniach Trio.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: HEZEN

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

No need to unwind from music, but we do love our friends and families and sometimes they do want to see us at other times then when we play gigs.

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

Tom: Street Fighter Mas by Kamasi Washington

Alex: Souk Eye by Gorillaz

Felix: Everything Apart by Foxwarren

Facundo: Tearz (45 Mix) by El Michels Affair and Lee Fields

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Follow Imperial Daze

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INTERVIEW: Kachina

INTERVIEW:

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Kachina

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THE first interview today is with Kachina...

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as they discuss the new single, Eyes of March, and their upcoming E.P. of the same name. They talk about adapting since the loss of their band member Zurcon and what life is like in the group now. The guys talk about their music tastes and what is coming next.

I was keen to know what sort of music inspires them and any rising acts we need to watch; how they unwind away from music and what advice they would offer emerging musicians – they select some great songs to end the interview with.

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

Hi. Yeah, great. Interesting times. The last week has been hectic. Just got a Universal Audio Apollo 16 and reorganised the studio around it; makes live recording/jamming a lot easier. We've been recording vocals with Lyndsey Murray for a few days, got some quality music in the works right now.

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

Hi. We're Kachina, House and Garage pioneers from the Midlands, U.K.

Eyes of March is your new single. Is there a story behind it?

Rob Sparx: Zurcon named the song. It’s a play on words and I can't say exactly what he meant by it but I would say it’s about the divide, the hidden truth; the half of history that’s covered up to hide an inconvenient truth which is just dying to get out. The truths we take for granted which may actually be lies.

It is from the E.P. of the same name. What sort of inspirations and themes influence the music?

This E.P. is about truth, the moon/night; strife, hope and love!

How did Kachina find one another? When did you meet?

Rob Sparx: I first met Zurcon way back in about 2000 at 5HQ record shop (Formation Records now HQ Recordings) in Leicester. He was painting the place for SS, we were in Twisted Individual’s room checking out his latest beats having a smoke and Zurcs was observing the madness cracking us up with his cheeky banter.

I'd see him M.C. and D.J.-ing around town and at Leicester/DMU University student nights for many years. After that, he then got involved in Dub nights working with a mate of mine, Ash, who suggested Zurcs as vocalist for a Dubstep tune I was writing - which became What U Gonna Do, which was a vinyl release on my label, Migration, back in 2009…

We carried on working together at events for years after that and I eventually ended up living on the same street in the West End of Leicester City. Wigz and I met when I was teaching production workshops at The Core in Corby in 2011. He was one of my first students doing regular production and engineering sessions for many years until we formed Kachina.

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Has it been difficult to adapt since the loss of Zurcon? Are you continuing to honour his memory?

Of course, losing any friend is hard as most people know and especially when you've spent many an hour in the studio, on stage and in clubs and have shared many experiences together. Zurcs was such a big character. It’s like the world has gone a bit quieter with him gone. Musically, though, we have continued to grow; we're more determined and focused than ever.

We have made a track in honour of Zurcon titled Zurcon's Prayer which will be out in 2019. Keep an eye on our socials. There will be a celebration for his birthday on 4th Jan in Leicester at both the African Caribbean Centre in Highfields and in the West End at either Music Cafe or Boxed. More info will be available A.S.A.P.

Is there going to be more material next year? How far ahead are you looking?

Yeah. There's plenty in the pipeline; work is nearly finished on many more E.P.s on all our labels - for at least a year into the future - and we have some great remixes from the likes of DJ Q, Osunlade and Miguel Migz out soon. Eyes of March is the last of the music made on our old P.C. to be released: all the new material is made on a faster computer with better sound card hardware, analog synths etc. and you can really tell the difference!

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Do you share similar tastes? Who are you inspired by?

Wigz: We do have similar tastes, especially in D&B, UKG; House and everything in between - which is probably why we work well together. Recently, I’ve been listening to a lot of MOAD, Dawn Wall and people like that - I love the instrument selection and grooves those two producers can bring

Rob Sparx: I'd be here all day if I start rolling off the many names that influence my music, so I'll just say classic D&B, Jungle and Dub; Tuff Jam-era Garage and '90s-Leftfield Dance music are still huge influences on my production style.

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As Christmas is coming; what one present would you each like if you could have anything?

Wigz: A Christmas number-one hit would do nicely then we would be sorted money-wise for life. Haha. Nah, realistically, the main thing I'm looking forward to is the roast! You can't beat a roast with all the trimmings on Christmas Day.

Rob Sparx: Schimdt, Moog One and Macbeth Minimac D!

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Nexgen: Releasing a four-part vinyl album. There'll be twenty tracks and some of our best unreleased music on there. We've been working on the release for over a year now. It’s pretty special! Also, we're finally getting round to making some videos/animations.

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

Rob Sparx: Kievbass in Ukraine know how to party, that’s all I'm saying!

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Wigz: Keep pumping out them bangers! Learning your craft is the most important, whether that be by playing an instrument or being a producer. To get any good at something, you need to put in some work and also just have fun! There's no point in making all this music if you can't have some fun with it!

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

Keep an eye on DeepArtment/RYVM parties in Leicester and Bloop in Leamington. We will be doing some label nights in the Midlands and Washington D.C. next year as well, so keep an eye on our socials.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Unsub

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Neveready; Unsub; Luthor; Mindofadragon and Girls of the Internet.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Luthor

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

Wigz: Of course you have to; life is all about balance! But, just the standard stuff really...going out doing stuff with friends etc. I also have an off-road motorbike, so I like to take that for a spin on some circuits or green lanes and go tear it up with a few mates!

Rob Sparx: Not much. I'm on this 24/7. Definitely a bit of a lab-rat, especially since getting hardware last year but my kids keep me grounded. I'm often taking them out around town or visiting family and friends. If I do need to get out the lab for a few hours, I usually go down to my mate’s studios at Lock 42 Frog Island or Thyme Bar in Market Bosworth which does some amazing food!

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).

Wigz: Cassius - Feeling for you

Rob Sparx: Curtis Mayfield – Pusherman

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Follow Kachina

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INTERVIEW: Hollie Haines

INTERVIEW:

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Hollie Haines

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THANKS to Hollie Haines...

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for talking with me about her new single, Mine, and its story; the inspirations behind her album, Letters to My Last Love, and whether she has a favourite cut from the record – she reveals some of the artists who have motivated her.

I ask whether there are tour dates coming up and if there are a few albums that are especially important; any new/approaching acts we need to get behind and what she has planned going forward – Haines picks an awesome song to end things on.

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

Hey, Sam. I’m doing really well. My week has been busy - with the album coming out - but I’m happy

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

I like to call my stuff ‘music-for-people-who-like-to-cry-to-music’ and that’s not as morbid as it sounds! I just mean I put a lot of feelings into my music and, if you’re into that, hopefully you’ll be into my music. But also Folk. 

Mine is your latest single. What was it about the song that marked it as a single?

I wrote mine about one of my best friends falling in love. It feels like it ties the whole album together and is about such real and pure love.

It is from the album, Letters to My Last Love. Can you explain the concept behind the album and how it started life?

Last year, I went through a big change in my life: I moved to London, I came out of a relationship and graduated university. I felt very lost and wanted to document my journey of getting back on my feet through songs and so that became Letters’ and its a journey of losing love and going through your healing. 

Do you have a personal favourite song from the album?

Yes! I Got Through, Babe is my favourite! I love it so much. It was the first healing song I wrote and it’s so special to me. It’s also really fun to play. 

Can you give me an idea of the artists, older and new, who inspire you and compel your own sound?

Richard Thompson has always informed my music and is the reason I love Folk music so much. Johnny Flynn reminds me that I can seep a bit into Country music and not taking my songs too seriously. Also listing to Father John Misty keeps me looking for new ideas and to keep moving forward with my music.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes! I’m planning a tour for February/March and thinking about my next release. It’s just in the ideas stage but if it works I’ll have something really special out next year. 

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

Playing in Graz for Sofar Sounds after a twenty-four-hour journey was incredibly special. The audience really listened to my stories and came up to me after and chatted to me about my songs. It was really moving for me to have people be so open about how my music made them feel.

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

Richard Thompson - Old Kit Bag; Taylor Swift - Speak Now; Laura Marling - I Speak Because I Can

All of these albums really inspired the way I tell stories through my lyrics and the chords I use etc. They were big educating albums for me.

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As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be? 

Two Christmas trees in the house! I’ve been asking my parents for years but they haven’t caved yet!

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

Taylor Swift without a doubt. What a queen. I’d need a kettle, tea bags and a bowl of Smarties and I’ll be happy.

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

No tour until next year but I have two shows left this year. 3rd December in Leeds and 8th December in Southend.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Take your time and stick to your guns. There’s no rush to put things out before you’re ready - and play with as many ideas as you can. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ferris & Sylvester/PHOTO CREDIT: Daniel Alexander Harris

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ferris & Sylvester. They’re not really new anymore but they were when I started listening to them and they’re amazing.

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

I’ve been trying really hard recently to honour my time off and give myself time away from my laptop and guitar. I do yoga, go on walks and draw. I stay creative all the time even when I’m not doing music because I can never switch off from that. I’ve got a creative brain. 

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).

dodie - If I’m Being Honest. My current favourite 

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Follow Hollie Haines

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INTERVIEW: Matt Perriment

INTERVIEW:

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Matt Perriment

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TODAY’S first outing...

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finds me talking with Matt Perriment about his new single, Oceans, and its background. I wanted to know whether he has any plans for next year and which artists are influential to him – he reveals a few albums that are especially important.

Perriment talks about his progress as a songwriter and which artist he’d support if he could; which rising acts we need to get behind and whether he gets time to unwind outside of music – he picks a cool song to end the interview with.

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

Hey! I’m great, thanks. My week’s been pretty manic. We released the new single the previous week and spent the weekend shooting two live music videos in a beautiful manor house in Norfolk with the team, so it’s been busy…in a very good way!

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

I’m a British singer-songwriter based in London and lived here for about eight years after moving from down south. I'm completely self taught for all instruments and vocals and started writing music about seven years ago and never stopped. Music has always been an escape for me. From the start until this day I write and play music to deal with the ups and downs in my life; every song is a snapshot of a moment in life - a way of dealing with them in a way. 

Oceans is your new single. Is there a story behind it?

Oceans is about the ups and downs of a long-distance relationship and the longing for someone to come home. Home in this track isn't really physical. It's about being together, whether that's travelling the world or an actual home. In essence, it’s tough but it’s worth it in the end.

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

We’ve just started releasing new music for the first time in a year and half. On 16th November, we released Oceans, the first single of the new E.P., Memos. I’m really excited for 2019. We just signed a deal with V2 Records for the next E.P. meaning we’ve got three singles being released (November, January and February) followed by a full, five-track E.P. in March.

What sort of music did you grow up around? Which artists inspired you to get into music?

It’s odd, actually. I didn’t necessarily grow up around music and I never studied it - and I don’t come from a particularly musical family so I’ve grown up discovering music for myself. For that reason, it wasn’t other artists that inspired me to get into music, it was more discovering the way that playing and writing music made me feel which kept me going.

That being said, I'm hugely influenced by singer-songwriters like John Mayer, Matt Corby and Ben Howard but, in truth, I think songwriting and music is about honesty and integrity and any artist of any genre that plays and writes with integrity and honesty is an influence for me.

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How do you think you have evolved as a songwriter and performer since the start of your career?

I’m really lucky to play with an amazing band behind me. I’ve found playing with other musicians and incorporating more instruments into my track has enabled my writing and song structure to breath. I don’t have to fill space in a track with complicated guitar all the time as we can use other instruments for that. My writing has really matured because of that and it’s opened up a completely different avenues.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

There’s some really exciting touring news to come in 2019 and we’re doing our first-ever international headline show in the Netherlands and biggest London headline show to date. Also, our Memos is out in March which I’m excited for!

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

This is a tough one. There’s been so many incredible moments. I’m going to give you two…sorry.

My first every headline show in London blew me away. We sold out the Servant Jazz Quarters and it was the first time I truly felt people wanted to listen. I’ll never forget that night; playing to that room of eighty-ninety people beats playing to thousands at a festival or huge support show.

The first time someone got in contact with me to tell me how one of my tracks helped them through their depression and how it had an impact on their life really shocked me. It’s incredible and makes me really proud that my tracks can help someone in some way in their life; the same way my tracks help me. Music is incredible in that way and it’s an amazing to be a part of that.

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

Red Hot Chili Peppers – Californication

I actually used to drum along almost every day after school to this album and it was the first album I could listen to and be completely lost in the flow of the music.

John Mayer – Continuum

This is probably my favourite ever album. For me, the integrity in the songwriting and guitar playing is inspirational. It showed me that albums and E.P.s need to be versatile. This man is my hero.

Ben Howard – Every Kingdom

This guy really is the pioneer of my generation for acoustic singer-songwriting in my opinion. His use of alternate tunings is incredible and it showed me what an acoustic guitar is capable of. My set now includes six alternate tunings in one hour and I completely blame him.

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As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

Plane ticket to Canada.

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

Ben Howard – and on my rider some ginger tea to calm me down as I’m fuc*ing supporting Ben Howard.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be patient. You have to grow as a musician and artist for it to be done right. The most important part of everything you do is the music. Write what you want to write and let the industry focus on the superficial stuff. Don’t be scared to release your tracks in the world and be prepared to work really hard. The highs are worth the lows.

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

London headline show in March 2019. Netherlands headline show in April 2019.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Phoebe Bridgers/PHOTO CREDIT: Ray Lego (for Under the Radar)

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Phoebe Bridgers is magical. Dermot Kennedy is a lyrical genius. Henry Jamison is a beautiful storyteller.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Henry Jamison

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

In truth, no. I work full-time alongside my music when I’m not touring which is really tough. Playing music is my work; the way I relax and chill and absorbs most of my life. Wouldn’t have it any other way. I also love squash.

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).

Unknown by Tuvaband. I’ll dedicate this one to Beatrix Perks

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INTERVIEW: Lisabel

INTERVIEW:

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Lisabel

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THE awesome Lisabel...

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has been telling me about her latest single, Green Jade, and how its story came to mind. Its incredible video is out and I was eager to know whether we might see more material next year; the albums and artists who are important and influential to her – she recommends a rising name to look out for.

I ask Lisabel if she has any time outside of music and what her favourite music memory is; what 2019 holds and which musicians she’d support if she had the tour – she ends the interview by naming a song I was a stranger to.

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

Hi Sam. I’m great, thanks. My week has been very nice as well. I’ve spent some time with family. Hope you’re good too!

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

I’m a contemporary Soul and Jazz songwriter based in London. I’ve been writing original material for the past few years and I’m finally starting to release singles which will be followed by an album, coming out next year.

I tend to write music that’s influenced by many artists and genres; each song has somehow a unique sound and vibe so the album will have a broad variety of music styles and instrumentation.

Green Jade is your new single. What is the story behind it?

I wrote Green Jade a few years ago after I was inspired by a green Jade pendant I received as a gift from Namibia. I started reading about crystals and the beneficial powers they have and I had the idea to write the song.

I understand an album is coming next year. What can you reveal about its themes and stories?

The album is very much centred around my life and personal experiences. I usually write capturing feelings and emotions, often coming from nature and the way it stimulates my imagination.

Did you grow up in a musical household? When did music come into your life?

I would say I did. I was surrounded by music as a child and I always felt a connection to it. I’ve enrolled in dance classes when I was eight-years-old and continued for four years before quitting. I loved dancing more for the music than the ‘move your body’ side of it, which is funny! I always sung but never took it seriously before the age of fourteen - that’s when I started studying music and I’ve continued ever since.

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

I hope that Green Jade will have touched a few people and that some of those people will be interested in keeping an ear out for more music. I’m still working on a lot of album-related things so I really want to enjoy the journey of creating as much as I can.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Next year will be an exciting one. More music will be coming out and I’ll start gigging too. Let’s see what it will bring!

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

I love writing music. My strongest memories are related to that. Recording some songs of the album at Konk Studios with the band was thrilling too and shooting the video for Green Jade is a memory I will cherish forever!

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

I go through many phases and I don’t have any all-time favourites but I can tell you the albums that mean the most to me in this very moment...

Needle Paw - Nai Palm. For its storytelling that cleanses the aura; Regina - Becca Stevens. It transports me into an ancient and wise world; Wallflower - Jordan Rakei. I love the cleverness in the writing.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

I can’t think of anything material I’d ask as it would probably be easily replaced by the ‘next thing’ anyway. I’d probably ask to strengthen the bond of some of my friendships!

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

Nai Palm and Becca Stevens. I’d love to support musicians like them, it would be an honour. I’d like to have one-hundred stems of a type of flower called ‘eryngium bourgatii’, directly from Morocco. Haha. Just joking! I’d be easy. I’ll bring my green Jade stone and all will be as it’s meant to be (smiles). 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

It’s difficult because there are many things I’d say; most of them I tell myself every day. Be patient and get the knowledge to be self-reliant when it comes to business matters. It’s easy to get lazy and it’s easy to get deceived so it’s best to have a plan and a clear idea about how to share your music with the world.

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

Not at the moment; next year for sure! I’ll keep people updated through social media!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Gabriel Garzón-Montano

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

He’s not new in the scene but I was recently introduced to a songwriter whose name is Gabriel Garzón-Montano. He makes very interesting music. If you like Alternative-R&B and Soul then you may find something in his music!

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

Yes, I do. I would have nothing to write about otherwise (smiles). I like to arrange flowers. I studied floristry for a year or so. Flowers and nature never fail to uplift me.

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

Could you play Homebody by Nai Palm? Thanks for the interview...until next time (smiles).

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Follow Lisabel

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INTERVIEW: Tony Moore of The Bedford

INTERVIEW:

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IN THIS PHOTO: KT Tunstall playing at The Bedford in 2008 

Tony Moore of The Bedford

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THIS interview takes me in a slightly different direction...

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 IN THIS IMAGE: A shot of the new-look stage/’Globe’ at The Bedford

as I have been speaking with Iron Maiden/Cutting Crew’s Tony Moore (band/artist booker) about the  future of the legendary London venue, The Bedford. December 2018 will mark the re-launch of The Bedford, one of South London’s most important music and entertainment venues. Operated by the award-winning Three Cheers Pub Co; Balham’s legendary performance space has a strong reputation for championing grass-roots music and maintains a lasting legacy for nurturing the stars of the future. In a triumphant riposte to independent music venues ever decreasing; The Bedford will reopen boasting five bars, four private rooms; a restaurant and fifteen boutique hotel rooms, making it an excellent place for music industry events of all types and purposes.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Ed Sheeran at The Bedford in 2011 (one of music’s big acts whose got the chance to cut their teeth at the legendary venue)

The multi-million pound refurbishment has been sensitively managed in order to retain the venue’s unique spirit, while enhancing facilities for both audiences and artists. The new-look Bedford will allow the stars of tomorrow to flourish in a live setting, but will also attract established acts back to where the journey began for them.

Moore talks about his involvement and some of the stars of today who have passed through the doors of The Bedford; why grassroots venues are important for musicians and why the Government need to preserve them; whether Moore still gets time to play and we can see him perform soon; a few upcoming artists we need to look out for and, as band/artist booker, what he looks for in an artist when it comes to The Bedford’s stage.

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

So far, so fabulous…

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

Well. I’ve had quite an eclectic career in music. I started by joining (the then unknown) Iron Maiden playing keyboards/synth when I was in my teens. In the early-’80s, I released an album of songs I wrote and recorded at Abbey Road and had an Xmas hit in Holland. I then went on to be keyboard player in Cutting Crew (I Just Died In Your Arms). In the ’90s, I worked as writer, co-producer and musical director with an artist called Marie-Claire D’Ubaldo whose biggest hit was The Rhythm Is Magic.

In 1996, I started a critically acclaimed underground acoustic club for songwriters called The Kashmir Klub that ran for six years; after which I came to The Bedford in 2003 to take over curating and promoting music.

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 IN THIS IMAGE: The Ballroom - as it will look when The Bedford reopens in December

Tell me how you came to be involved with The Bedford?

The Kashmir Klub had to close in 2003 and the owner at the time had been many times and loved what I was doing and invited me to come to The Bedford and try and to really help raise the profile of what (The Bedford) was doing and to raise the bar on all it could be.

I know it is reopening and will have a launch in December. What was the reason behind the closure?

New owners took over last year and had an amazing vision for The Bedford. Although it has been a legendary destination for many years, it was starting to show its age and was ready for some T.L.C. With significant investment of money, love and passion; they have now transformed the place into something that will really be a jewel in the crown of London venues and bars.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Jack Savoretti storming The Bedford back in 2007

If one were to come to the relaunch, what might we expect?

If you had been to The Bedford before, you will still feel all the same warm and welcoming spirit and energy but you will see a building that has been taken to a whole new level. If you are coming for the first time, the ‘wow factor’ is going to be at the top of the scale. The main bar has been tastefully redesigned into an imposing horseshoe (which was actually in the original plans but had been lost for many years). Its sense of drama, music and theatre is evident in the unique, custom-made wallpaper; the brilliant posters and the great live pictures that recognise and celebrate the long history of music and comedy that has been at the heart of The Bedford…

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 IN THIS IMAGE: What one can expect when booking a room at The Bedford

We now have two floors of beautiful, boutique hotel rooms that reflect the very early incarnation of The Bedford, but bring right into the 21st century. The Club Room has been fitted with a state-of-the-art audio/visual system that will allow us to promote a much wider range of live shows, work with some bigger acts and give our weekend club goers an amazing experience.

On top of all that, The Ballroom has been turned into one of the most beautiful and inspirational event spaces that can accommodate everything from the most special wedding to the coolest private party. And that’s just the start! I have been here almost sixteen years and I have to say that what the team have done with The Bedford has surpassed all my expectations. I am SO excited to be part of the next generation of this amazing venue.

Are there big plans for 2019? Are there already events and nights planned?

We have a lot of things in the system but, for now, the most important thing is to be up and running and make our opening month as smooth as possible and get everything ready for a big New Year.

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 IN THIS IMAGE: How The Bedford’s first floor bar will look

Is it true there is a new lightning system? Will the new-look venue provide an even better and more dynamic live experience?

Yes, very much so. It’s a fantastic lighting system that includes a new ceiling truss full of moving heads and extensive P.C.-controlled software allowing us to create a very special environment for any event. 

The Bedford has helped support and propel musicians like Ed Sheeran, KT Tunstall and Paolo Nutini. What has been your fondest memory from your time with the venue?

That is SO hard to answer! Over fifteen years, there have been so many amazing moments. Pete Townshend playing a free show for us one night was an incredible experience, for example. However, the real magical moments are when we see acts that started their early careers with us really take off. Ed is obviously someone we have very fond memories of and because of the shows we did with him - and his own night here - that led to him releasing the album Live at the Bedford. We feel very proud to have played a small role in his journey.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Charlotte Church at The Bedford in 2010

A lot of grassroot venues are closing and a lot are in the capital. Do you think more needs to be done by those in power to preserve small venues?

Yes...absolutely. Small venues are like small airfields. If there is nowhere to learn to fly, we have no pilots for the future. Similarly, if we lose small venues, we close the opportunity for young artists to learn their craft, build an audience and gain experience. We are very lucky to have owners at The Bedford who understand this and have actually invested heavily in our ability to do more and help acts be seen and heard at their very best. The Government needs to continue to be reminded of the value of music and the importance of protecting small independent venues.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Coffeepot Drive at The Bedford earlier this year

How important, in your view, are these venues regarding the next generation of musicians? Can music survive without them?!

There is no doubt that, for performing artists, the ability to play regularly, in places that will welcome you before you are famous and will help you to find fans; try out material and meet other musicians/industry people is vital. The O2 headliners of today can only get to be good enough with experience and that can only come from small venues not only surviving, but thriving.

What advice would you give to venues at the moment regarding sustainability? Do you think The Bedford has a magic formula?

The truth is that being an independent venue is a tough challenge. Between the standing costs of rent, business rates; electricity, insurance etc. and staffing, everyone needs to be creative in how they generate income for the business. Every venue, including The Bedford, has to diversify and be open to different ways of generating financial stability - from club nights to private hires to sponsorship; each venue needs to work out how they can add extra value to their business.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Mercury Prize-nominated artist Jorja Smith on The Bedford stage in 2016

You have an eye for spotting musical talent! What do you look for in a musician when it comes to future promise?!

Having booked over 10,000 acts through the last twenty years as well as being a musician; I think I have developed a certain ear for what I think works for the kind of shows I book. My area is really songwriter-based music (even if it’s a band) - that is where I trust my instinct the most. I don’t know a lot about emerging talent in other areas like Dance, Jazz etc. so I follow my gut feeling about acts that I book.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: ILONA/PHOTO CREDIT: Alex Berger Photography

Which rising artists do you suggest we check out and follow?

ILONA; Houndstooth; Hope and Leoni Jane Kennedy.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Hope

Might we see you taking to the Bedford stage? Do you still perform live?

I will actually play the first set of the soft launch night - and then I will make the odd guest appearance as things go along. I am still very active in music, writing, producing and playing shows.

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

A special one of our ‘alumni’ to confirm a re-appearance at The Bedford for 2019.

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).

Fleurie - Hurricane

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Follow The Bedford

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 IN THIS IMAGE: The Bedford’s reinvented performance stage

Official:

https://thebedford.com/

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/thebedfordpub

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thebedfordpub/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/ThreeCheersPubs

INTERVIEW: Amelia Carey

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lily Bertrand Webb

Amelia Carey

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MY last piece this weekend...

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is a chat with Amelia Carey about her new single, Over You, and how the story came to life. She explains what it was like putting the video together and what we might expect going forward – Carey recommends a rising artist to watch.

I ask her which three albums are most important to her and whether she gets time to relax outside of music; whether there is going to be more material arriving next year and if she has a favourite memory from her career so far – she ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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

Hi! It’s been a bit of a wild one if I’m honest. I had my phone stolen in Camden after I saw Dusky Grey. I’m a little disheartened by it but these things happen! 

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

I’m Amelia and I’m eighteen-years-old and have recently moved to Brighton and am studying at BIMM!

Over You is your latest single. Is there a story behind it?

Over You is about breakups in general and this song depicts that last stage of finally getting over someone! I wanted this song to communicate to people of all genders also, which is why ‘he’/’she’ pronouns aren’t really used!

 

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

I had so much fun whilst filming the video, but as it was my first I was afraid of looking a little awkward! We ran into some complications due to the weather but it was still such a brilliant couple of days.

Might there be more material next year?

I’m hoping so! 

Which musicians inspired you to get into the business?

My inspirations come from the likes of Lil Peep, Billie Eilish; Amy Winehouse and Pale Waves!

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Not currently, but I’m excited for next year and what could happen!

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

When I recorded my single, I recorded at RAK in London and, of course, this studio is well known. It was very scary to record somewhere that’s had the likes of Ed Sheeran walk the halls! 

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

I absolutely love Lil Peep - Come Over When You’re Sober, Pt.1 because of the emotional sentiment in absolutely every single song. The production from Smokeasac is amazing. 

Amy Winehouse - Frank. Her vocals and lyrics just work together in perfect harmony; again with such strong emotion and power, yet vulnerability shown in the tracks!

Pale Waves - My Mind Makes Noises. This album speaks a lot about mental health and how it affects you and those around you! Also, the '80s Glam-Goth aesthetic they have going on is to die for!

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

Probably for my parents to return home from Portugal for the Christmas holidays!

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

I would simply need to have my friends and girlfriend present with a collection of crisps to munch on!  

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be YOURSELF!

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

Not at the moment, sadly!

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Have a look into the band joan!

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

I like to unwind by watching Doctor Who with my partner and enjoying some good food!

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).

Pale Waves - Eighteen! 

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Follow Amelia Carey

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INTERVIEW: Andria Piperni

INTERVIEW:

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PHOTO CREDIT: Nat Carson

Andria Piperni

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THE fantastic Andria Piperni...

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has been talking with me about her current single, Say Something, and what its story is. I ask what sort of music inspires her and whether there is a strong music scene in Montréal and which albums are most important to her.

Piperni tells me what is coming up next year and which artist she’d support given the chance; if there are any tour dates approaching and whether there are rising musicians we need to get involved with and support.

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

Hi! I’m great. Busy week!

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

Sure! I’m a singer and songwriter based in Montreal and I like to describe my sound as a blend of Neo-Soul and Alternative-R&B. Fresh but familiar. I’ve done a lot of collaborations with local artists and I’m now putting out my first solo work. Finally!

Say Something is your new track. Is there a story behind the song?

Say Something is about a situation where you're really feeling someone and you know they're feeling you too, but neither of you has had the courage to admit it - I think we’ve all been there! It’s hard to put yourself out there when it comes to love, so you hold back in order to protect your ego and your heart. You hope the other person will be brave and make the first move…but sometimes you just have to take control and be the one to step up!

Do you think there will be more music in 2019?

Oh, definitely (smiles).

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PHOTO CREDIT: Nat Carson

What sort of music did you grow up around? Which artists inspired you to get into music?

I listened to all kinds of music growing up. My parents introduced me to a variety of artists, but especially a lot of amazing female artists from Carole King to Bonnie Raitt to Norah Jones. I loved all the great Jazz queens too, like Billie Holiday and Nina Simone.

As I got older, I always gravitated towards the sounds of R&B and Soul. Alicia Keys, Corinne Bailey Rae; Amy Winehouse, Lauryn Hill - their voices and words spoke to me (and still do) in ways that I can’t explain. They make you feel things deep in your soul. That’s what I hope to do.   

You are based in Montréal. Is there a strong music scene there right now?

Absolutely. There is so much talent here. And, with the strong French music scene, it’s especially diverse.

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PHOTO CREDIT: James Traf

Do you already have plans for 2019?

You will be hearing more new music, that’s for sure.

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

There was a performance I did this summer here in Montréal, for a new single that I was featured on - it was a beautiful summer night; the venue was packed and everyone was singing along! Also, the stage was extremely small so I was very close to the audience and it was so cool to see everyone having so much fun.

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PHOTO CREDIT: James Traf

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

John Mayer’s Continuum album sticks out. I just remember many car rides of listening through the entire album over and over and thinking about how great his writing was. I think it was during that time that I realized I wanted to write lyrics.

Amy Winehouse’s work is definitely up there. I especially fell in love with her debut album, Frank. It’s just so wonderfully soulful and jazzy. Her voice was unparalleled. She remains one of my favourites.

Finally, I have to mention Regina Spektor’s Begin to Hope. I’m not sure how I even fell upon her music at the time - she certainly wasn’t mainstream. But that’s what I loved about it. Her writing and her voice are (so) unique and powerful. That album made me realize that music comes in so many forms; there are no rules.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Nat Carson

As Christmas is coming up; if you had to ask for one present what would it be?

Hmm…how about a live Christmas house concert by Michael Bublé? Too much to ask?

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

Can I choose Michael Bublé again? I just love him.

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 PHOTO CREDIT: Nat Carson

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Honestly...I still consider myself to be a new artist. And the number-one thing I try to live by is to just be myself. I don’t think you can find success (or happiness) in this business if you’re not true to who you are. And people are drawn to authenticity, so why not give it to them?

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

No official tour dates for now, but I do have some local shows that you can find out about on my website.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Mac Ayres

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Oh man, so many! Mac Ayres, Raveena; Bruno Major, Eloïse; Jorja Smith, Charlotte Cardin; Sara Diamond…shall I continue?

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IN THIS PHOTO: Jorja Smith

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

Hanging out with the people I love is the best way to relax.

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).

Fair-Weather Friend by Bruno Major

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Follow Andria Piperni

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