INTERVIEW: Sun K

INTERVIEW:

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Sun K

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I have been speaking with Kristian of Sun K...

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about the band’s new single, High in the City, and its background; how the band got together and whether the band are influenced by any particular artists – Kristian selects an album that is especially important and meaningful and ends the interview with a great track.

I ask whether Sun K will be touring and what defines the Canadian music scene; which rising acts we need to get behind and, away from the music, there is any chance to chill out and kick back a little bit.

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

Heyo! It's just Kristian here answering this. I’m doing pretty good. The week has been great. We're really excited to have the music video for High in the City out with our new tour dates. Plus, the Leafs and the Raptors both won last night, so, ya know...

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

We're Sun K and we're a Toronto-based Rock 'n' Roll band.

Where did the name, ‘Sun K’, come from and how did the band get together?

Sun K started as a moniker for myself (Kristian) when I was doing solo stuff. It's meant to be a shout-out to the true forefathers of Rock ‘n’ Roll - the Blues and Jazz gods that inspired music of the '60s/'70s and beyond. When I was really digging into the history of music in the twentieth century, I kept coming back to artists like Robert Johnson, Son House; Sun Ra, Bessie Smith...

High in the City is your latest track. Is there a backstory behind this one at all?

This track has actually been kicking around in my demo box for years. I had a Samba version at one point; a lo-fi bedroom Psych-Pop version... I was doing some co-writing with Colin MacDonald from The Trews for this record and, when I showed him this tune, he told me it was a hit and I had to put it on the new album. Lyrically, it's about falling in love with your city and also about...err, how do I say this tactfully (?) - enhancing your mood with some of Canada’s perfectly legal and delectable Jazz-cabbage.

Do you feel there might be an album later in the year?

We'll have new content to share soon but I don't see a full album coming until 2020. 

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Are there any particular artists that inspire Sun K’s sound would you say?

Our first record was a bit more Folk-driven with influences like Neil Young, Wilco and Lou Reed. This record is more rockin’ with more Psych influences - we were listening to bands like The War on Drugs, Tame Impala; Ty Segall and Kurt Vile. I've been pretty into artists like Tyler, the Creator and Post Malone lately, so who knows what L.P. three will sound like.

What would you say are the best qualities of the Canadian music industry?

It's so small that everybody knows everybody. Usually, it's a good thing...

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

Meeting Cone for the first time when he ‘discovered’ me playing to a completely empty bar is pretty high up there. Also, opening for The Sheepdogs to ten-thousand people on N.Y.E. was pretty rad. Opening for Houndmouth last year as well was definitely a big highlight. Looking forward to making more memories!

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

Shuggie Otis - Inspiration Information. It was the soundtrack to my wife and me falling in love.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Make sure you want to do it. Have as much fun as you can but keep your head on straight. Make as many connections as you can and take every piece of advice with a grain of salt. Most importantly, don't get distracted by all the other BS - keep creating, keep writing; keep perfecting what you do. The rest will fall into place. And, if you don't want to do it, cut your hair and get a real job.

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

Tame Impala. My rider would have socks...always need fresh socks on tour. And a portal into Kevin Parker's mind.

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

We've got the High in Your City tour comin’ up in Feb/Mar that spans Ontario, Quebec and the East Coast of Canada.

Might you come and play in the U.K. later in 2019?

We would love to! Know any English bands that would take us on the road?

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Jade Bird/PHOTO CREDIT: Francesca Allen

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Jade Bird is spectacular. So is boygenius. Steve Lacy from The Internet is a new find for me as well.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: boygenius/PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images

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

Nahhhhh, not really. Even when I'm doing other stuff I'm still listening to music. I've been getting really into plants hahah and have a sweet little indoor garden that really helps me chill out. My unwinding situation is a little bit like what goes down in our new music video, less biking though..

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).

Aht Uh Mi Head by Shuggie Otis please and thank you

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INTERVIEW: Natalie Shay

INTERVIEW:

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Natalie Shay

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MY final interview of the weekend is with Natalie Shay...

who has been talking about her new single, Yesterday. I ask how the song started life and whether she might release more material later this year; how she got started in music and whether there are particular albums that are important to her.

Shay recommends a rising artist to look out for and reveals where we can see her play; what her favourite period from her career has been and the advice she would offer artists emerging right now – she ends the interview by selecting a pretty cool song.

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

Hey! I’m well. This week has been crazy, but in a good way!

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

I’m Natalie Shay. I’m twenty and from London. I play guitar and the music I make is kinda Indie-Pop/Rock. 

Can you reveal the story behind your new single, Yesterday?

Yesterday is about being in a one sided relationship. The song is written from the point of view of when you’re finally realising that this is a waste of time; nothing is ever going to happen and that you can do better. 

It has already been received well and featured on Spotify playlists. How humbling and important is it knowing that?

The song got featured on nine New Music Friday playlists, including the U.K. It also just hit 50,000 streams! I never expected any of this because, as an unsigned artist, there’s a certain level of uncertainty when releasing a song. This has been such a brilliant response and has made all the work worthwhile. 

Do you think there will be more material coming this year?

Definitely more material this year. Not sure what or when but watch this space. 

Have you got a plan of attack for this year? What do you want to achieve by the end of the year?

This year, I plan to play more festivals; write and release more music. But, most of all, work with a lot of new people. 

How do you think you have grown and changed as an artist since your early days?

When I started music, I wore a flower headband and played Country songs that were six minutes long. I wouldn’t say I’ve really ‘progressed’, as I’m doing something completely different now, but I’ve definitely grown up and think that my music has matured with me. 

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Was there a particular moment you knew you wanted to be a songwriter? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

My dad’s a huge music fan but not a musician. He got me classical guitar lessons from the age of five so I’ve always been playing music and doing musical theatre. I think, after I got accepted into the BRIT School, I finally believed in myself doing music as a career.  

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

This is the honest truth: this whole week has been the best part of my entire career. 

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

Little Comets - Life Is Elsewhere

Because they are the best songwriters in the world and I cannot fault a single song they’ve released. 

Taylor Swift – Fearless

The album that made me start writing songs. 

Kate Nash - Made of Bricks

The first ‘big girls’ album I ever got - even though my mum wouldn’t let me listen to any of the songs with swear words in until many years later. 

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

I would support Little Comets. Best band ever. They inspire me so much and they’re so humble and good people. As a rider, I’d choose twenty bags of Mini Eggs and a pint of milk. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Advice: stay true to yourself. Only make the music you enjoy making because - then it’s far more rewarding when it does well.  

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

My first headline show is on 2nd February in London at Thousand Island. There are still a few tickets left so grab one fast. Ticket link on my website or just search ‘Natalie Shay tickets’. 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Jade Bird

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I would recommend checking out Jade Bird. She went to school with me and she’s incredible and doing so well. 

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

I hardly ever unwind. Music is so time-consuming (but I love it). When I do unwind, it’s just by hanging out with friends. 

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).

Little Comets - M62

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INTERVIEW: Tarantola

INTERVIEW:

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Tarantola

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IT is not often I get to interview...

a six-piece band that plays Gypsy music and is influenced by the circus. That is the case today as I talk with Tarantola about their single, Rogue Rouge Circus; they discuss their future musical plans and what is coming up; how they found one another and which rising acts we need to follow.

I ask if there are tour dates coming up; the albums the band are inspired by; what advice they would give to musicians coming through and whether they get any time to relax away from music – they each select some great music to end the interview with.

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

Hi, everyone! We are good and feeling very exited for the upcoming release! Our week was amazing...also very busy as we are preparing next Saturday’s show! Plus other projects we are working on for the future releases.

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

Hailing straight from the boot of Italy…Tarantola is a London-based Folk-Rock/Gypsy band that brings ‘Taranta’, the traditional music of Salento, to the British music scene. 

We are six energetic musicians who come from different corners of the world including Italy, Spain; England and Brazil who share their diverse musical influences with captivating circus performances exclusive for their upcoming album entitled Rogue Rouge Circus - containing four singles that will be released one by one monthly from next Friday, 18th January, 2019.

Each song is an episode of an intriguing and provocative story about all the mysteries, relationships and adventures behind the circus curtains, which you can watch and follow in the next live shows . 

Rogue Rouge Circus is your debut single. Is there a story behind it? How did it come to be?

Rogue Rouge Circus is the first episode of four. It talks about the circus as a metaphor for the routine of life; for the limits that we create by ourselves in life and the wrong belief we don’t deserve anything better; getting stuck with the same job, the same relationship; the same place and the same environment. As for all the other songs, it comes from an idea of Mauro, our singer and songwriter, who had this vision about the circus and its meaning.

Are you already planning more material? Might we see an E.P. soon?

We already planned more releases during this year. Rogue Rouge Circus is an album (CONCEPT) entirely dedicated to circus and a live show related to this, both visually and sonically entertaining. We will release one song each month. All of them are connected together to form at the end an E.P., formed by four singles.

We also have many other songs we are already performing live that will be officially released later on this year, perhaps in autumn/winter. They are slightly different from these ones being released in the next couple of months. They have a different approach to songwriting and content and we are very excited about them!

Do you already have plans for 2019? What can we expect from you guys this year?

We will keep exploring new genre and themes. We love to try out new musical territories and make our sound even bigger and more powerful. We intend to perform in many countries such as Italy, England; Spain, Greece and Portugal etc. We are looking forward to perform more in the U.K. out of London, especially festivals. Step by step, we will get to that point. We work really hard to prepare everything and to make sure we are 100% ready to take on bigger challenges. We want to make the show always more entertaining and exciting and reach big stages and big festivals!

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How did Tarantola form? Were you all bonded by similar musical tastes and ambitions?

Tarantola was born from an idea of Mauro while he was in his homeland Salento in Italy. Once he got back to London, he met Paolo and after a year they started this adventure. Tarantola was meant to be the connection between our Italian home and London and a strong need to expand and carry in another reality the legends, the story and the culture and music of South Italy. One year later, Edoardo joined the band and, after with new members arriving and a few leaving, we have finally reached the perfect formation that you can see today. All the musicians have a different music background - as we came from different parts of the world – but with the same ambitions and desire to express our music!

The reason why we chose a very multicultural band is to give first of all a clear message that we love intercultural connection and also because we wanna expand the limits of our music by being inspired by different cultures - and the only way to do so is by playing with people who come from different backgrounds.

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Could you describe your sound and aesthetic to anyone new to your work?

Our sound is authentic tambourine rhythms grooving with enchanting whistles, sax and violins…reminiscent of the circus, the sea; the tradition, the legend and the mysticism belonging to "brown skin people" of the Mediterranean lands. We also have a strong Hard-Rock input and all this blends together creating an explosion of energy on stage that you simply cannot resist to!

We have circus performers in our show which is very important in order to create a feeling of wonder in the audience during our show…even though we want to promote equality, make our audience sing along and dance with no rest; make sure that perfect strangers become your best friends, sharing a laughter; a cheering, a cry and a shout; deep feelings of love, hope; of wonder and joy altogether in the same place.

There is not a lot of colour and festivity in Pop right now. Is it time, do you think, that the scene embraced sounds like yours?!

We believe that Gypsy is the new Pop! We love colours and emotivity even though we chose to be represented mainly with red and black. The red stands for passion, love; sex and friendship mixed with the black that stands for depression, routine; alcohol, orgy; violence and bad habits inside the circus. Our stage costumes are mainly red and black to give more intention and significant to the metaphoric sense of this colours. Our songs are energetic and uplifting but there is always a deep contrast with the lyrical meaning as they carry important social, moral and cultural messages.

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

Surely the summer of 2017 when we toured Central and South Italy on a full D.I.Y. tour, organised in the previous months just ourselves - thanks to our contacts, friends and families. It has been an amazing experience that taught us a lot in terms of living together as a family-band, playing to big crowd of hundreds of people and facing last-minute issues on the road.

Also, I have to mention the slot we have been offered at the KOKO in London in May 2017: performing in such a legendary venue was a great! I believe that finally recording these singles (May - August 2018) for the Rogue Rouge Circus E.P. has been an important accomplishment for us all and we are really excited for you to be able to listen to them very soon!

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

This is a tough question to be honest! But certainly our most important influences are artists such as Gogol Bordello, Manu Chao, Dubioza Kolektiv; Ska-P, La Pegatina; Goran Bregovic, Che Sudaka; the Italian Kalascima and Sud Sound System. But, as mentioned before, we all come from different musical background. I would say here records such as Crash and The Central Park Concert (Dave Matthews Band); Gypsy Punks: Underdog World Strike (Gogol Bordello); Happy Machine (Dubioza Kolektiv); Baïonarena (Manu Chao); Eureka! (La Pegatina); El Vals del Obrero and ¡¡Que Corra La Voz!!  (Ska-P).

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

Supporting Dubioza Kolektiv would be just fantastic for us at this stage. I think  playing together in the same bill with a great upcoming act such as the Rock’n’Roll band The Second Sons would be interesting!

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Always believe it! Even though it is difficult, believe it and make step by step accomplishments. Surely, aim high; work hard, have a strong belief in what you do every day; choose the right people to work with in your (any) project and make sure you sharpen your skills. Oh, and, as everyone in the music industry says, make contacts and be kind!

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

We are playing the Hootananny in Brixton, London on Saturday, 19th January. We are headlining The Monarch in Camden Town, London on Saturday, 23rd February.

On top of these two gigs, we are working on confirming some more in the near-future! Stay tuned for that!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Kate Lomas/PHOTO CREDIT: Tiposilvijah

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Surely The Second Sons. Then, emerging artists we personally know such as Maike, Hide Your Mother; Killit, Twiceful Minds; Kate Lomas, Begut; Rival Karma, Cristina Hart; Marianna Zappi, Big Peyote and Romances.  There are many more, though: London is bursting with talented musicians and interesting original acts. I might be forgetting some here.

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IN THIS PHOTO: Cristina Hart

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

Ah! Not much! Well, we are a band of six pieces so there’s always one of us working for the band sake. We all have different ways to unwind, actually. Some of meditate and do relaxation; some of us have different projects going on...we are a hard-working band, especially at this stage! Though, we of course love to hang out ‘outside the band mindset’ for a pint or to watch football matches or to go to 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).

Edoardo: Roots and Culture - Mikey Dread

Mauro: Maché bécif – Dub Inc.

Paolo: Don’t Leave I Lonely - Mellow Mood

Kimberly: Tigancusa esti frumoasa  - The Gypsy Queen

Bruno: No Rain - Blind Melon

Serena: Stop It - FISHER

Nacho: The Rhythm Changes - Kamasi Washington

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INTERVIEW: Teri Eloise

INTERVIEW:

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Teri Eloise

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MY last interview of the week is with Teri Eloise...

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who has been talking with me about her recent single, Lose Myself, and how that came together. I ask her about her Trinidadian heritage and how that affects her music; which albums she holds dearest and what she has planned for this year.

The songwriter recommends some approaching artists to look out for and looks back at a busy 2018; how she chills away from music and which artists she’d support on tour if she could – she ends the interview by selecting a new track.

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Hi, Teri Eloise. How are you? How has your week been?

Hi. I’m great. Thanks for asking. My week has been pretty busy. I’ve been working on a lot of music and planning some new stuff for the near future!

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

Yes, of course. My name is Teri Eloise. I’m twenty-one-years-old, born in the U.K. and raised in Trinidad and Tobago. I’m a singer, songwriter; producer and a visual artist. Basically, all I do is create!

How did Lose Myself come together? Is it based on personal experiences?

When I started writing Lose Myself, I wasn’t really planning on writing what would be my next single. At the time, I was quite lost, trying to figure out myself and my future and I was dealing with some conflicted feelings. I remember one night there was so much going on in my head, so I thought why not write down some of these thoughts and feelings to help get some clarity and ease my mind? I played a chord progression that I was working on and the words started pouring out along with a melody.

The song pretty much wrote itself. I didn’t really know what I wanted Lose Myself to sound like either; I just started playing around on the keys and layering it with instruments and sounds that I thought sounded good. It’s one of the first songs in which I took such a big role in producing, so it’s something I'm very proud of and it’s always going to be an extremely special song to me.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Definitely. I’m working on a lot of new music right now. I’ve also got a couple collaborations that might be happening and then, of course, once I have more music out I’m going to start doing some live shows. It’s all really exciting!

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How do songs form and come to mind? Do you spend time specifically writing or wait for inspiration to hit?

It really depends on my mood or the weight of my emotions - or if I’m extremely under pressure! Usually, lyrics would pop up in my head at the most random times and I’d have to jot them down in my phone so I don’t forget. With that, I’d have some lyrics or a concept to expand on. A lot of times, I’d work on the music first and then start writing. Whatever comes naturally.

Do you feel your Trinidadian heritage is important regarding your sound and how you approach music?

Absolutely. Growing up, I was surrounded by so many different kinds of music - I listened to everything from Calypso, Soca; Reggae to my dad’s old Heavy-Metal L.P.s, to my mum’s old-school R&B C.D.s - and the list goes on. The music and culture of Trinidad & Tobago is so vibrant and rich; it’s influenced my artistry a lot but not to the point where I’d limit myself to one sort of sound.

I think, growing up, listening to so many different genres...t real- ly helped expand my musical knowledge to the point where I just love incorporating elements of different genres into my music.

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When you were growing up, which artists guided and compelled you to get into the business?

Growing up, I really admired artists like Bob Marley, Michael Jackson; John Lennon and many more but I chose those three names because not only did they have incredible music; they had a message of peace and love. It taught me at a young age how much good you can do with music. That heavily inspired me to get into the business and take music more seriously.

2018 has just ended. How do you think it went and what was the most important lesson you learned?

2018, for me personally, was the year of taking a step back and just healing. I spent a lot of time on my own; sort of learning to enjoy my own company and learning how to love myself more… and the outcome was great because I released two songs that represent my growth!

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

Working in the studio and bringing my music to life. Those are always the most special musical moments for me. Ten.

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

The first one would be Michael Jackson’s Thriller. I remember getting the 25th Anniversary Edition when I was ten-years-old and listening to it every single day. It’s definitely influenced my style and it’s an album that inspires me to this day.

Chapter II by Ashanti and Dangerously in Love by Beyoncé were two other really special albums to me. My granddad actually got them as a present for my sister and I which makes it even more special. Those were two albums that were always on-repeat when I was younger and inspired me a lot musically and vocally.

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

It would be so cool supporting someone like Rihanna. My rider would probably be really simple and boring like water, some food; maybe a humidifier, some peppermint tea…I have no idea!

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

Yes. It is being discussed! Right now, I’m so focused on the creative side of things like writing and recording more music. So, when I have a few more songs out this year, live shows are definitely going to happen.

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 IN THIS IMAGE: IAMDDB

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

IAMDDB and Nina Nesbitt.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Nina Nesbitt

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Stay true to yourself and to be honest in your music. Don’t compare yourself to others because this is your journey. Also, just have fun and remember why you started! It’s a lot of work but, if it’s your passion, it definitely won’t feel like it.

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

I’m always making music these days so it’s a hard one to answer, but recently I’ve been enjoying cooking a lot…I love learning new things, acquiring new skills. I also love spending my time with the family, having drinks with friends; just trying to stay calm and enjoy my youth!

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

I’d love it if you played Dancing with a Stranger by Sam Smith and Normani!

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INTERVIEW: Ryan Gibeau

INTERVIEW:

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Ryan Gibeau

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I have been speaking with Ryan Gibeau...

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about his single, Flying Away, and his new album, Quiet Fall. He discusses the inspirations behind this single and album and reveals what comes next; where he will be touring and whether he will come to the U.K. and play – the American songwriter selects some rising artists to check out.

I ask Gibeau if he has any advice for emerging musicians and which albums are most important to him; what the scene is like in Brooklyn right now and whether there is more music coming later this year – he ends the interview by selecting a pretty good track.

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

Hi. My week has been eventful, thank you! My pre-sale for Quiet Fall was a great success and now I am shipping out hundreds of packages to some awesome early listeners!

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

Hi. My name is Ryan Gibeau (G-Bo) and I am a Brooklyn based singer/songwriter. I love everything under the entertainment umbrella and do my best to contribute! 

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

There is a story behind Flying Away - and it was a very surprising one in two ways...

As a songwriter, lyrics and story are hard for me to get right and call done. Also, I usually record my sessions to remember progress. In this instance, I was leaving the East Coast to try out L.A. - which meant leaving an on-again-off-again relationship for good. It was emotionally very difficult and, on that flight, I had the urge to write about it. In moments the story was written out and, as I was writing it, I was imagining a melody but had no way to record it and no instrument to help me figure out the chord progression...so I just guessed the chords and continued humming the melody to make sure it wasn't lost.

As soon as I landed, I got to my friends home and borrowed his guitar. To my absolute shock, the song was whole. The chords worked, the melody was as I imagined and the story was told. Flying Away was birthed on a flight to L.A. and still gives me goosebumps as I remember the process and shock to see it all work.

Your album, Quiet Fall, was released at the end of last year. What sort of things inspired the songs? Is it quite a personal album?

Quiet Fall is a very personal album. It chronicles the breakdown of a relationship and how I fell and got back up. I have love and respect for her but we didn't work and it was hurting us both. I wanted to delve into that for a very specific purpose - I want people to see who I am and what I went through. I write about what hurts me and why and how I play a role in that.

I'm not the type that tries to portray a perfect life - the catharsis of making music actually helps me learn and grow. As a result of my honest approach, a lot of people have shared stories about how my music has helped them or emotionally affected them and it creates real dialogue - because there is no shame and there are no barriers. Vulnerable is the hardest thing to be and because I explore this space. I believe other people feel ok to do it too. 

Might we see more music coming later in the year?

My goal is to create more! I am working on new music and also working with other artists - so there will be some knowns and unknowns ahead as I explore post-debut album. Following my social channels is a great way to see progress as I always share the work we make!

When you were growing up, which artists guided and compelled you to get into the business?

I'm glad you asked because I've never shared this before, but I think it’s really important - 'get into the business' is not a term I connect with, truth be told. I am a career filmmaker and music has been a hobby that may, ideally, one day take over. Getting into the business would be amazing but one thing I learned through filmmaking is that the art takes a very big hit when the business angle becomes important.

I make music for entertainment sake and I share - that's my objective. If there's a demand, if it becomes profitable and I can make a living entertaining, that's when I'll accept help getting into the business but, for now, and forever, I'm ideally making my art authentically and organically for art's sake.

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You reside in Brooklyn. Are you inspired by the people and music around you?

Always. When asked who my heroes are, the answer is: the people around me doing it. Making, playing and sharing - it’s all very hard. In the city, there are a lot of people here talking about trying to make it but, when you see people actually making it as they try to make it, you can't help but feel driven in their company. These small venues are full of people taking risks and that is where real passion and creativity comes from. I'll see a show and love the energy of the track.

I'll ask myself why I loved it and figure out how to work those important elements into my show. That research helps me grow and helps my friends and fans enjoy new experiences each time. Big shout and thank you to all N.Y.C. artists!

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

In New York, every show is a hustle to play and get fans out to - and once your show is over the crowd almost completely rotates out for the new band. Seldom does a crowd stay in one place for a night of music here - except my favorite night of music ever. Webster Hall Studio a couple years ago. I had a great crowd of about seventy-five people join me as I opened the night for two other awesome acts. Mid-show, their fans all started pouring in and, rather than talk over the music, they listened. More and more showed.

By the time my show was over, we had about one-hundred-and-seventy-five in the room and they were super-fun! When my show was over, my fans and I stayed for the next act and the room was incredibly electric. The night was all about appreciating the music and supporting the artists and it’s a feeling I hope to experience again and again as I continue to play.

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

Queen - Greatest Hits (1981)

This is the first album I obsessed over and listened to as a kid until I knew all track titles, order; lyrics, melodies and harmonies. Yes, I could also blast all guitar solos with my sweet vocal guitar sound fx. Freddie Mercury, as a performer, only became more relevant when I was older and started performing - only then did I realize his genius beyond the old C.D. I used to play on repeat

Regina Spektor - Begin to Hope (2006)

My introduction to Spektor was actually through Us from Soviet Kitsch in 2005 but shortly after when Begin to Hope came out I realized how into this artist I was. Her voice was such a unique and diverse instrument I wanted to study her and understand how she was able to be so creative, yet also so accessible. Paired with her genius visual style and music video work - I knew this was a special moment in my musical journey.

Bon Iver - 22, A Million (2016)

If you have a heart and a soul you have been crushed by Justin's journey and exploration into music in this album. I was also very lucky to be living here in N.Y.C. as Bon Iver played eight straight shows. Some small at Pioneer Works and then some huge at Kings Theatre. It made the album release so much more special. To not only listen to the music but to watch it live and breathe and change at the same time, I was becoming familiar with the record. 

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

Easy. Sigur Rós. After listing my favorite albums I left out one of my favorite artists, so I'm glad I have a chance to bring it full circle to people who use their voices as a unique instrument and story-tell with melody so beautifully. It would be my mission to learn in real-time how to utilize some of the musical stylings of Sigur Rós to create more huge soundscapes and blend it organically with my sound. Second tour I'd support Muse. Similar reasoning, different genre.

Regarding a rider, I'm not too fussy presently. Just get me on a stage with awesome and reliable sound. I'll hit you back with more particulars after I've been touring and learning why riders exist!

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do it for love of the game first. Make music because you love making music. Remember that feeling of excitement, power and confidence you get from sharing your gift and never stray too far from it. You will make right and wrong moves in the process of making music – but, if you make decisions with your heart and your gut, you'll likely not regret a mistake.

Coming from experience, I didn't believe in one of my marketing ideas and, in the end, it cost me money and I failed in an effort to strengthen myself as a musician and a brand. Also, when you do make a mistake, understand what the mistake was and why/how you made it and don't repeat. Learn and grow always - and never stray too far from the love of why you started in the first place.

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

I'm organizing a New England tour which is, unfortunately, far from an England tour. You can catch me in Boston, N.Y.C.; New Hampshire, Connecticut and Vermont and, while out for music work on the West Coast, I'll make an appearance in Los Angeles too! 

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

I would love to come out and play for you all! We have had several European requests...so I do believe we will be looking at some dates in the near-future, though; sorry to say nothing is in the books right now! 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Coyle Girelli

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I like this question. Check out a favorite (and U.K.-born artist) Coyle Girelli. He just released his debut solo album, Love Kills, and he and I are playing shows together in N.Y.C. this winter. Also, look into Chris Garneau who has contributed wonderful art over the years including his recent album release, Yours. 

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IN THIS PHOTO: Chris Garneau

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

Music is what I do in my chill time! In N.Y.C., I run a creative production company called ROCK*iT FiLMS and we spend a lot of time coming up with meaningful content for established and emerging brands as well as working with local musicians to help them with killer content. Apart from all that, I play intramural sports and dive into occasional video games and movies. I'm human like the rest of y'all (smiles).

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).

Baby's Romance by Chris Garneau. This is a wonderfully powerful song from Garneau's debut album, Music for Tourists. Amazing

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Follow Ryan Gibeau

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INTERVIEW: Jackie Venson

INTERVIEW:

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Jackie Venson

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THIS is a bit of a delayed interview...

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but I have been speaking with Jackie Venson about her current single, A Million Moments. She talks about her musical tastes and what her plans are for this year; whether she has more material coming and a rising artist we should get behind.

I ask which artist she’d support on the road if possible; a few albums that mean the most and whether there are tour dates coming along – she ends the interview by selecting a bit of a classic track.

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

Hey! I'm great, thanks. I've been working really hard in the studio this week with some incredible musicians and producers. Can't wait to share what we've been up to with you!

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

My name is Jackie Venson. I am a singer/songwriter/guitarist born and raised in Austin, Texas. My music is at the intersection of Rock, R&B; Pop and Blues.

A Million Moments is your latest single. Can you reveal the story behind it?

I recently fell in love and found my life partner and, when at first after we had finally found each other, we were having a conversation about all the crazy little events in our individual lives that led us to meet each other. That led him to say the words “a million moments” which sounded so much like a lyric I couldn’t escape it. I also feel like many people can relate to this, even if it is something else that isn’t related to finding love.

Is there going to be more material coming soon? 

Oh, yes. I have a full length album releasing in early-April; the release show will be the biggest venue I’ve ever headlined in my career. The album will be called Joy and will include some singles released in 2018 as well as a whole batch of new music.

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Can you remember when you got into music? Was there a particular artist that inspired that?

I was eight-years-old when I started piano lessons. My father and my brother, Andrew and Andre, are professional musicians and growing up in a household with them primarily influenced me playing music and furthermore pursuing it as a career. Having direct exposure to career musicians made me confident that it was possible for me too.

You have had a great year. How do you think you have evolved as a songwriter since the start of your career? 

Yes, absolutely, and I believe it’s for two reasons: I introduced a sampler and other electronic instruments into my sound; I also started working with producer Chris ‘Frenchie’ Smith. The combination of new instruments as well as a collaborator with a fresh set of ears and a whole lifetime of musical experience has changed my sound and songwriting in wonderful ways.

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Do you already have plans for this year?

Oh, yes. I will be performing several times at the FAI conference in Montréal. I am very excited for that. I also will be releasing another full-length album and having a subsequent tour surrounding it starting at The Paramount Theater in Austin, TX! It's a venue that's always been iconic in Austin, TX and it will be the largest venue I ever headline.

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

Yes. When I started playing the guitar I hung out with these two guys, one of which was an incredible guitar player. We actually ended up starting a jam/Psychedelic band together where I played bass and we were jamming around town as well as hanging out and jamming in our rehearsal space. It was this crazy incubation period for me where I was soaking up all this new information just like a really young kid would. I still am seeing how much this time period influenced my playing and my musical ideas. 

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

Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder; The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill by Lauryn Hill and Good Kid, M.A.A.D. City by Kendrick Lamar. These three albums have sparked so many song and melody ideas I can't even keep track of it at this point. I'd say my music lies in between all three of these albums.

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As Christmas has just been; is there a present you didn’t get you’d ask for now? 

I've never been one to obsess over material things so, if I had to ask for one present, it would be more hours in the day!

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

Stevie Wonder, for sure. He's my hero. As for my rider, I'm pretty easy - chocolate chip, cookie dough ice cream and a six-pack of beer! Boom!

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

Oh, yes. I am going to be all over the world this year, especially in the summer. I will be on the East Coast, West Coast; Alaska, Europe and the U.K.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don't ever give up. Don't ever despise the days of small beginnings. Good ideas have lonely childhoods. Don't compare yourself to others. Keep jamming and keep moving forward.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Aaron Stephens/PHOTO CREDIT: Eric Morales

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Yes, Aaron Stephens. I am obsessed with his album, Focus.

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

Not much because music is often how I unwind as well. I love practicing and jamming in my rehearsal space. However, when I need to get away from all of it, I like playing video games and spending time with my dog.

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

As by Stevie Wonder

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Follow Jackie Venson

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INTERVIEW: Bouts

INTERVIEW:

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Bouts

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IT has been a while since I have done an interview...

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but I have speaking with the Irish bands Bouts. They (Barry fields the answers) talk to me about their upcoming album, Flow, and what we can expect; how they got together and the type of music that drives them – they reveal some rising names to get behind.

I ask whether there are going to be tour dates and what comes next; which musician they’d support on tour if they could; an album that means a lot to them – they pick a great song to end things with.

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

Barry: It’s January; we’re surviving (like everybody else) but gearing up for album launch at end of the month.

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

We’re an Irish Indie-Rock band who just don’t know when to quit. Over seven years now. Taken the scenic route but now on album-two and back to touring after almost five years. We sound like melody mashed into vaguely Emo-guitar noise, sprinkled with a little shine and voila.

Your new album, Flow, is out later this month. Are there particular themes and experience you drew from when writing the songs?

I guess, as a whole, the album is concerned with small-scale dramas as they play out against the bigger whole. How they intertwine. How we all keep on keeping on. Other keywords might be perseverance, growth; acceptance and resignation.

It is a return after five years. What was the reason for the hiatus?

It’s a return to live shows after five years…

We released an E.P. in early-2016 and recorded constantly in the interim. Initially, I moved away from Ireland in mid-2014 (to London), then further afield to Asia and now based in Amsterdam. Our bassist is now also based in London, while the other two guys are still at home in Ireland. Just takes a little more effort to get ourselves together, but now we’re all back in roughly same the geographical sphere we’re getting out there as a band again.

Did you enjoy recording the album? Did you have to change your working process this time around?

It’s always immensely enjoyable to record an album. Our process was relatively straightforward; just a little drawn out and with minimal actual band contact. It concentrates the mind. First sessions were in late-2016. We grabbed some more time together over different weekends between then and now, in Ireland and the U.K., further rehearsing and refining ideas. Not taking too long to let them become over-thought was also important and is the single biggest difference between making album one and two.

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How did Bouts start life? Were you all living in the same part of Ireland?

We were all based in Dublin and playing in different bands. As so often happens, back home we all kind of knew each other anyway. It just so happened that myself and Daniel started playing together as both our previous bands had sort of wrapped and gradually Bouts began to take shape…

Do you already have plans for 2019? What can we expect from you guys this year?

To play live as much as we can and enjoy it as much as possible.

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

Playing a festival in Dublin and our slot was after the late Bobby Womack. Coming on stage and blasting noisy guitar rock to the utter bemusement of the crowd definitely sticks in the mind.

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

Well. One album that really means a lot to me personally is Phoebe Bridgers’ Stranger in the Alps from last year. It’s extremely searching, soulful; lucid and, ultimately, life-affirming Indie-Rock.

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

For supporting musician and rider: Stephen Malkmus - and you can’t go wrong with beer and snacks. 

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

We’re playing a bunch of dates around Ireland at the end of January and in London on 26th January.

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As your name is Bouts; if you could get any celebrity in the ring, who would that be?

Don’t take the name too literally: we’re not huge boxing fans and have no desire to get in a ring with anybody.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Write many, many songs before you release any. Be alive to your own creative spontaneity and don’t listen to advice from anyone – do it your way!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Nilüfer Yanya

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Nilüfer Yanya; KAKKMADDAFAKKA.

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

Podcasts. We’re all doing that now, right?

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).

Swearin’ – Grow into a Ghost

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Follow Bouts

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INTERVIEW: Rie fu

INTERVIEW:

Rie fu

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BEFORE I move on with my interviews...

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and assess a different type of artist; I have been speaking with Rie fu about her upcoming album and what we can expect from it; which artists have inspired and a few albums that are important to her – she recommends some rising musicians that we need to look out for.

I ask what is coming up this year and whether there are any gigs approaching; how she chills away from music and whether Rie fu has advice for songwriters coming through – she ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Cold but great.

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

Japanese singer/songwriter/painter based in the U.K. I’ve been releasing ten+ albums under the name Rie fu and a few E.P.s under the name Rié.

I believe you have an album due in March. What might we expect in terms of themes and song ideas?

The album is organic and in tune with nature, inspired by British daily rituals seen from the foreigner’s perspective. Emancipation and seclusion, connection and isolation; conformity and idiosyncrasy…mirrored images of the everyday-life, depicting ordinary British things. There’s even a song about my husband’s daily commute on the M25 (which, of course, sounds very frustrated!). 

What has it been like putting the album together?

For the past three years, I’ve tried electronic-leaning songs and worked with brilliant producers and released two E.P.s and two singles, which has been amazing. But, I realized my lifestyle is not electronic at all; I live in a beautiful countryside listening to birdsongs every morning, smelling the fresh air. Then I started to create this album with a brilliant producer Dan Cox (who has recorded Laura Marling, Lianne La Havas; Thurston Moore, etc) at Urchin Studios and was finally able to make the most true-to-life, honest album.

Which artists inspired you to get into music? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

I grew up wanting to sing like Karen Carpenter, also listening to Carole King; Joni Mitchell and Kate Bush and looked up to them as unique female songwriters.

Given your heritage and background; do you think your mixture of Western and Eastern influences is the reason your music stands out?

There’s definitely a mixed influence. The Japanese music market is like another planet and I’ve always thought I had a Western (music) style as opposed Japanese but after moving to the U.K., I realized I do have some of those twee and quirky Japanese traits which I’m proud of and embarrassed by at the same time!

Do you already have plans for this year?

It’s my fifteen year since I debuted in Japan, so I’m planning an anniversary tour in Japan.

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

Touring in China for the first time and discovering two-thousand fans I’d never knew.

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

Songs in the Key of Life - Stevie Wonder

Every song is pure magic and joy that never grows outdated. I’ve been listening to it all through my years.

The Spirit Room - Michelle Branch

I started songwriting because of this album. I was seventeen and all the songs in the album resonated with my thoughts at that time.

The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill - Lauryn Hill

Around the same time, I was religiously listening to this album; even translating all the lyrics into Japanese.

If you could ask for a post-Christmas gift; what would you go for and why?

A beautifully decorated family home with no mortgage. (My husband and I have been moving countries every two-three years!).

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

St. Vincent and a sushi bar.

 What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t go anywhere near a person who questions your talent or self-worth

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

5th Feb, 2019 at the Moonpig in Fitzrovia. A Japan tour announcement in the New Year.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Suzi Wu

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Suzi Wu, Charly Bliss.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Charly Bliss

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

I’ve been doing a lot of subtitling (English to Japanese) which is an insightful way to watch films and documentaries.

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).  

Ella Fitzgerald - It’s Only a Paper Moon

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Follow Rie fu

INTERVIEW: From Carbon

INTERVIEW:

From Carbon

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MY final interview of the year...

is with From Carbon who have been talking about their single, Demons. I ask whether there is a new album being planned and what sort of music the band are inspired by – they recommend a rising act that we should get behind and follow.

I ask whether there are any plans for next year and if there will be touring dates; if they have favourite albums and what the reaction has been like to their 2014 debut album – they end the interview by selecting a great track.

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

We’re good, thanks. Keeping busy working on the new material.

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

We’re From Carbon. Were an Indie-Rock band from North Manchester. We play guitars, piano; violins and drums. We’ve been described by a radio station in Australia as “U2 and Black Sabbath’s lovechild!” Not sure that covers all our sound but maybe the heavier tracks we play. We do have a softer side, though.

How did From Carbon get together? When did you all start making music together?

We got together around four-five years ago from the ashes of various other bands we’d been in. We’d all seen each other play in other bands and thought why not form this supergroup of unknown, unsigned artists. We only agreed to do a few recordings together but things developed and were now about release album number-two.

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How important is Manchester and its music vibes to your own sound? Is it a good place for the band to play right now?

Manchester music has been a huge influence on us;; there is such a varied and esteemed heritage. We’ve been lucky enough to play with some of them. There is also a bit of scene developing again bands like Blossoms, Slow Readers Club and Catfish and the Bottlemen all seem to be getting to the next level, so hopefully people will seek out more Manchester bands as a result.

It’s hard to make an impact in this city as there is so much competition and, with venues closing down in the city centre, promoters are only interested in booking bands they know will shift a lot of tickets and that isn’t always the best bands. They also take a huge cut of the money, taking advantage of younger bands. We’ve started organising our on gigs as a result.

Tell me about the song, Demons. What is the story behind it?

Scott: Demons is one of the first songs I ever wrote. It came from a huge argument I had with my closest friend at the time and about the waves of anger it produced on both sides. The song acknowledges that we all have demons and complications and perhaps we shouldn’t always judge people so harshly. It’s still very relevant to us.

The song has been picked up for a movie soundtrack, Strangeways Here We Come. It was a proud moment to hear it blasting out in the cinema and at quite a crucial and delicate scene which depicts the morning after a drink and drug-fuelled party in Salford.

I believe your debut album came out in 2014. What has the band been getting up to since then? What has the reaction been like to the record?

Yes. Wealth came out four years ago and has sold over a thousand copies. We’ve had a couple of support opportunities which helped us get to a wider audience. We supported The ChameleonsVox at the Manchester Academy and a few of their hardcore fans started following us as well. Then we supported Heather Small (M People) on her U.K. theatre tour - which was the main reason we sold so many C.D.s and was a truly amazing experience.

We’ve played various small festivals and released a couple singles/videos this year and finished 2018 off by supported Toyah Wilcox in Manchester at the Ruby Lounge - which is another great venue which is sadly about to close down. However, in between all that, we’ve spent the last two years focusing on recording the difficult follow-up album.

Might there be another album coming along in the next year or so, perhaps?

Yes. We’ve named it Existence because it’s had to fight for its existence. It’s definitely been tougher this time. Not through anyone’s fault; our producer Chris Oliver has been on world tours with The ChameleonsVox and Midge Ure. So, pinning him down has been difficult. However, it’s finished now and currently being mixed hopefully in time for our album launch show which is at The Bread Shed in Manchester on Saturday, 30th March, 2019.

We’ve organised the event ourselves and it’s going to be magical. We’ve managed to persuade Joe Duddell and his Classical ensemble to play a set with us. Joe has done similar things with Elbow, James; The Charlatans, New Order and other great acts. We’re just super-excited to hear what he does with our songs and hearing his arrangements and interpretations. We’ve also got the wonderful Little Sparrow supporting us on the show. Katie has such a powerful and beautiful voice and really deserves to be a household name. We’re delighted to have them on the bill with us.

It seems like gigging is the most important thing for you guys. Is that where you hear the music truly come alive – and get the purest and most honest reaction?

We do love playing live and we are definitely one of those bands who sound better live. People are usually shocked at how good we are live when they see us for the first time. It helps with us having seven people on stage. I suppose there’s always something or someone to watch.

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

Scott: James - One Man Clapping. I bought this album retrospectively as I’d just discovered James around the Gold Mother (‘Madchester’) era, when I first played it (a second hand tape). I thought they’d accidentally mixed up the tapes in Vinyl Exchange as it sounded so different to Gold Mother, like a completely different band. I suppose they were in many ways. I do love a live album, though. This had so much raw energy and an element of crazy that I grew addicted to. Chain Mail, Sandman and Leaking blew me away with their improvisations. The lyrics of Really Hard and Burned certainly resonated with me. It gave you a glimpse of how good they were live and still are.

Gray: A present requested for my tenth birthday bought by my sister because I wanted the music from Tomorrow's World. I played it on a mono hand-held cassette player back to back for years. My first introduction to album music...turns out to be instrumental; not just in genre but in revealing that music was pure escapism. Probably the only album I have bought repeatedly in different formats over the years.

Adam: K by Kula Shaker. The best Rock/Blues mainstream album. It was my first gig at the Apollo. The guitar work was amazing and it was a little bit different from the usual Britpop dross of the time!

Nut: Rush - 2112. I was eighteen; working on a building site in Oldham and the foreman labourer said to me: “You play drums, don’t you?” I said: “I did but haven’t for a couple of years. I’ll bring you a cassette in tomorrow”.  He said: “Listen to the drums; they are amazing”. He brought the tape in and I played it when I got home. Within two weeks, I’d bought myself a kit and started playing again. There have been two people to make me pick my sticks back up. One is Neil Peart and the other is Scott Jeffries.

What do you hope to achieve in 2019?

We’re planning on releasing a couple of singles from Existence and hopefully it will lead to some more exciting gig opportunities, festival slots and we’d love to tour again. It was such an amazing experience and we do have the odd fan dotted about all over the U.K., so it would be good to be able to play live to them again. Fingers crossed.

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

Two favourite memories? The first has to be the first time the audience started singing and clapping along to our song, Demons, on the Heather Small tour. It was at the Lancaster Grand Theatre and we really weren’t expecting to go down well on the tour - as our music is very different to Heather’s - but each night we were blown away by the reaction we were getting and we grew in confidence. It was just a great feeling to see complete strangers enjoying our music.

The second is when Andy Diagram from the legendary band James joined us on stage to play trumpet on Demons. We hadn’t rehearsed it and it was such magical feeling to have one of your heroes playing along with you and improvising on a song you’d written fifteen years earlier. We followed it up with a cover of Laid. Again, we’d not rehearsed it with him so we were flying by the seat of our pants. I think we did it justice. I get tingles thinking about it.

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

Each one of us would have a different answer to that. For me, I would love to support either U2 or Arcade Fire. Not just because it would be a sell-out but I feel we’d have a lot of fun.

I think our rider would have a lot less alcohol than in previous years.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

My advice to young musicians is never wait for someone else to do things for you! If you want to record an album do it yourself and definitely plan things.

 IN THIS PHOTO: Eliza Shaddad/PHOTO CREDIT: Melanie Tjoeng photography

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Scott: My favourite new artist is Eliza Shaddad. I’ve seen her develop over the last five years and if you haven’t heard her E.P.s, Waters, Wars and the new album, Future, you haven’t lived.

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

We never unwind. We don’t have time for that (smiles).

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).

Please play Eliza Shaddad - Make It Go Away (with headphones on and in a darkened room on a rainy day)

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INTERVIEW: Roxy Rawson

INTERVIEW:

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Roxy Rawson

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THIS interview finds me talking with...

Roxy Rawson about her album, Quenching the Kill, and the themes that inspired it. I ask if she has a favourite moment from the record and which musicians are important to her- she recommends some rising acts to look out for.

I ask Rawson whether there are plans for next year and how she got into music; if she has a favourite memory from her time in music and which three albums are most important – she ends the interview by selecting some good music.

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

Hi! Not bad, though I've had the flu! I spent four days inside; on the fifth day, I felt well enough to venture out and decided I wanted to go to a place called Indian Rock where I live in Berkeley. You can climb ancient stones and see the whole of the San Francisco bay from way up high. 

I met a mathematician and we got talking. I was glad to have the flu. I knew it would pass and it was a reminder to slow down and pace myself (smiles). I had Lyme disease for five years and was housebound.. I'm well now and so the experience of a short normal illness and feeling better again was actually pretty awesome. I also got to see this magnificent sunset! It looked like the sky was fire!

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

Ok, hello - how are you? I'm Roxy...I make music that could be described as 'Femme-Freak-Folk'. ‘Femme’ because I love expressing myself as a woman and think women have a unique perspective to bring that's important to share. The ‘Freak Folk’ part describes a desire to express authentically, even if it gets a bit outlandish at times - and the ‘Folk’ part describes a dedication to the craft of instrumental playing. 

Quenching the Kill is your new album. What sort of themes and ideas inspired the material?

The themes varied quite widely throughout the time I wrote the songs for Quenching the Kill, but a kind of common theme running through is about the survival anger that animals have; that's, in some ways, quite innocent, it's about survival - and vital. This album is the importance of just and rightful anger and the right to freedom of expression and to speak out against injustices that I experience or see. 

For example, The Good Shepherd is about malignant love. I wrote it following witnessing a pretty intense scene of domestic violence in China, which I tried to intervene in, but there was threat of violence towards all those present so we had to retreat. 

Other songs are about injustice in love (Black Eyed Soup and Born Again); the very human misrepresentation of God in the old testament (in God's Got Bones). Rounded Sound is about claiming and celebrating freedom of expression and joyful moments, following a trip seeing extended family and Teardrop for Rosa is about my grandmother, expressing some things for her about her life that not many people knew about and I feel like I'm singing a bit about some the injustices she experienced in her life and the ripple effect that had on her loved ones. 

Do you have a personal favourite cut from the album?

I think one of my favourite moments is at the end of Bouncing Boots. The musicians and I were kind of riffing on that ending and just feeling where it should go, almost improvisational - and I think it made something quite beautiful.

Which artists inspired you to get into music? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

I definitely looked up to Tori Amos a lot as a young teen, but later on when I heard super-early recordings of Regina Spektor -  before she became famous -; super lo-fi recordings my friend Jess had of Regina as they were friends...

Her innocent and authentic expression and voice timbre inspired me very much to think that I could do my own thing on my own terms and that an audience might deign to listen to it!

You are based in the San Francisco Bay area. Is it an inspiring place to create music in?

It is and it isn't...

It’s incredibly hard for artists and musicians to survive here - and thus the ones that really stick it out are very dedicated to their craft and expressing in an authentic and original way - and so the quality of music here is very high. It's hard to get anywhere beyond the Bay because it's so expensive to live here, so that part is quite demoralizing. I watched an amazing performer, Kendra McKinley, a few months back at the Independent and, despite it being packed, it was full of friends, no industry - and she is so ready to perform for big audiences. Her style is somewhere between Nikka Costa and Prince and her live show is perfectly choreographed. She deserves support and elevation and so do many other superb musicians here.

The tech sector has had such a profound impact on the local economy and they don't seem to care about the hollowing out of their local arts scene, because gradually people have to move away. It's really so hard to live here as a creator, unless you're in tech...

That is why I am founding a non-profit, with the aim of supporting musicians through (I hope) tech-sponsored events and scholarships.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

More work on this non-profit named the Arts and Music Catalyst Collective; a concert series of #femmefreakfolk and a new sub-genre I'm discovering #feralfreakfusion, which I think describes some other kinds of experimental, exciting; energetic music in the Bay... 

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

Once I played for Gay Pride in London in Trafalgar Square - to probably over a thousand people and I remember rather than being terrified -; I felt enveloped and cared for by the crowd, the energy was so amazing....and the time just flew by as the music flowed through us all on stage. 

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

This is so hard! So many albums means so much to me but these were the first few that came to mind:

Astral Weeks by Van Morrison

The mixing on this album is so beautiful and the musicality and arrangements inspired me so much in making my album. Beautiful sentiments too...

A Hard Day’s Night by The Beatles

 I remember I had never properly listened to The Beatles until I was twenty-five. It was a long time to wait. At the time, I had a high fever and was in China! And I was sucked into this magical vortex of upbeat wonderful Rock and Roll. I listened for hours to everything I had on my phone downloaded, which were just the first few albums. I know there is a problem here with Rock and Roll being appropriated by white people...but The Beatles did make magic with this genre. There's something so innocent and lively that just captured my imagination and transported me back in time, to how people must have felt listening to these uplifting, energetic; hopping songs in the early-'60s.

Aimee Mann – Magnolia

This film was so important to me...and I know that the director wrote the film around her songs as well. The film is about redemption, atonement...

Can I have one more?

Egypt - Youssou N'Dour

This album is so beautiful. It was written with the Egyptian national orchestra and combines this Senegalese singer's upbeat beautiful melodies, combined with this different tradition of music and the results are so beautiful...a surprising cross over of genre; West African and Arab at the same time, if that's ok to say.

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As Christmas is here; if you had to ask for one extra present (that you didn’t get this year) what would it be?

Healthy love and the wisdom to maintain my physical health by listening to my body frequently and valuing my life and myself to the extent that I will not settle for less than I deserve. I would wish this for everyone!

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

I would love to support Regina Spektor because we are kind of connected already through our mutual friend, Jess - though this dream feels so far away!

A rider? That involves the snacks and drinks right? Well. I guess if it was just me, because of my health, my ideal rider would include lots of fresh vegetables! And tea! But, if I had bandmates, I'd want to make sure they had other more yummy things (smiles).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Be true to yourself and make sure to put your body first. Health ALWAYS comes first. 

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

I am playing locally in the S.F. Bay. I would love to tour...plans are not finalized yet as it's not clear my band can make the dates. Plus, it costs a lot to tour and I'm not sure I'd have the funds. I may run a fundraising campaign to tour; to tour would be a dream!

 IN THIS PHOTO: My Brightest Diamond

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

The latest album by My Brightest Diamond is so wonderful. Powerful, distorted guitar licks with orchestral instruments! Another important artist I think is Laura Mvula. Both her albums are musically so interesting with beautiful arrangements; combining great rhythm with orchestral arrangements. 

IN THIS PHOTO: Laura Mvula

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

Well. I relax in a few diff ways depending on what I need at the time, but I love watching comedy on telly: The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel and Kimmy Schmidt are my favourites right now. I also love looking at art books and sipping tea. I also do autogenic training with my good friend Chloe over the phone. It's a kind of deep body relaxation/meditation. If we are organized, we do it daily and my days always go better if I incorporate that in. My aim for the New Year is to definitely incorporate more meditation into my daily routine.

And also to eat super clean - as it helps with maintaining my health. I also aim to read more and carve out time for it. I only read four books this last year and it calms me down so much. I should do it every day..

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).

Oooh. Ok, please play for me Yank My Chain by Tanya Auclair. All her recordings are amazing. Ooh, and can I ask for one more? Eleanora by Baeilou. Her latest E.P. is so, so beautiful...

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Follow Roxy Rawson

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INTERVIEW: Tim Johnson Jr

INTERVIEW:

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Tim Johnson Jr

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MAYBE I have put this up a day or two late...

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but I have been busy so this is the earliest I could present the Tim Johnson Jr interview. He has been telling me about his E.P., Christmas with U, and why he decided to record it; his musical past and where he is heading now – he reveals a few new artists we should follow.

I ask whether there are tour dates coming up and which albums matter most to him; how he got into music and whether there is more material coming next year – he selects a cool song to end the interview with.

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

It’s great. I just released my music video for my original Christmas single, Snow Day, and I’m gearing up for the New Year.

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

Hi! My name is Tim Johnson Jr; an entertainer originally from Philadelphia, PA. When I was younger, I was a theater kid and, when I was ten, I was blessed with the opportunity to be in Disney’s The Lion King in Las Vegas. Since then, I’ve been blessed to be a part of many different projects on the acting and music side. I was a semi-finalist on Fox’s competition music program, The Four: Battle of Stardom this year. I have also recently guest starred on the CBS show, FBI. I will be a recurring character on Hulu’s series, Future Man - and I have two movies coming in 2019.

Your E.P. Christmas with U, is out. What was the reason for putting together the songs you did?

My dad screamed down from the studio: “Tim, we got to do a Christmas project”. This is literally how it started! My dad, as well as producing partner, and I looked through many Christmas classics, trying to find songs that I can put a fresh twist on. We chose Silver Bells and Silent Night. I then started writing an original Christmas song called Snow Day, which was birthed from the idea of being snowed in during the winter; getting the chance to chill and be with the one you love.

Sometimes it’s just good to slow down and be present without other things on your mind. 

Do you think we might see more material coming next year?

Yes. Music is coming next year. Very excited for you all to hear (that rhymed). After putting out my E.P., Hey U, and now my Christmas E.P., Christmas with U, I’ve learned a lot. Now, I’m in a space of reinvention; trying new things, growing as an artist and an overall person. I just want to create and make people feel good when there listening to my music.

Which artists inspired you to get into music? Did you grow up around a lot of music?

My dad had this C.D. of all the Motown classics that he would play all the time. I remember singing I Wanna Be Where You Are and I’ll Be There by The Jackson 5. I also listened to a lot of Gospel. My dad was in a Gospel group called Christlike and I was at church all the time. All you need is a little Motown and Jesus (laughs).

How do you think your time on Fox’s The Four: Battle for Stardom affect your ambition and music?

The Four gave me confidence to create music that is authentic to me. On the show, I got to sing songs that embody the music that I wanted to make.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

2019! This year, I plan to do what I have but on another level. I just want to be in places that allow me to grow in every area. I plan to direct my first short film this year and discover new arenas of creativity that I have not stepped in. I’m nineteen-years-old, getting to do what I love. I thank God for that each day and don’t take it for granted.

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

A twelve-year-old kid came up to me recently saying that I inspired him and then he sung for me; he was amazing. Then, he continued to speak to me with such conviction about the things he’s working on and the dreams he has for the future. I then talked with his parents and, when I looked in their eyes, I saw my parents. Then, I looked at the kid and saw me from when I was younger; how my dad would put me on the spot singing for people.

This moment touched me because, knowing where I came from and where I am now, I can give another person hope. That’s the goal of this whole thing: to bring others along with me along this journey, to inspire and bring joy.

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

This question is so hard because it always changes but I think, right now, my list would be (not in order): PJ Morton’s Gumbo; “Awaken, My Love” by Childish Gambino and Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder. These albums are classics.

Which one present would you want now that you didn’t get for Christmas?

One present I think would be books. See, I don’t read as much as I like but I’m trying to do something different this year coming up. The plan is to get books. I’m going to stay up in my room and read then, in three-four weeks, become like Einstein. Will it work? I don’t know. But it doesn’t hurt to try!

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

My advice to other artist is to have fun but understand the impact that you will hold. Be prepared before you go into the ring because the moments you don’t even plan for are the one that can change your life.

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

In 2019, I will have some shows but, as of right now, catch me on Instagram (@cityboyjr).

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Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Some artists that have a vibe y’all should check out are Jonathan McReynolds, Mac Ayres; Chloe X Halle and YEBBA.

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

When I have downtime, I spend time with the fam and friends. I enjoy watching movies, playing instruments (anything I can get my hands on) and trying things I’ve never done before.

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)

Mac Aryes - Easy

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Follow Tim Johnson Jr

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INTERVIEW: Joey Walker

INTERVIEW:

Joey Walker

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MY only interview of the day...

is with Joey Walker who has been telling me about his new track, Frank. I have been asking about the song’s origins and whether he has any plans going forward; which artists and albums have inspired him and a new act we need to have a look at.

Walker tells me what it is like being a queer artist I the music industry and whether he needs to shout louder to get his voice heard; what advice he would give to new musicians approaching – he ends the interview by selecting a great song.

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

It’s been a grand, gay ol’ time. Christmas is coming up and this is the first year I am not celebrating it, so that feels a bit odd…otherwise, I’ve been pretty fabulous.

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

I’m a producer, songwriter; singer, and musician based in Indiana, U.S.A. I try to create music that sounds like adulterated rage for the people who stay at home and obsess over records and spend a lot of time online. I call it ‘Twink-Rock’ but I’m sort of half-joking.

Talk to me about Frank. What is the story behind the song?

Well. I am also trying to figure that one out! It opens with a recording of my high-school’s janitor, named Frank, talking about his tribulations growing up poor and uneducated. I was wondering to myself: ‘Do I relate to this man?’ This song is an attempt to imagine a different life for him in a structural or narrative sense, rather than a literal one.

Will there be more material coming next year?

My album, Supersoft, drops on January 18th, 2019 through Darling Recordings. That’s all you get, 2019!

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music? Who do you count as idols?

Tegan and Sara definitely gave me the courage to be myself within my songs; Diamanda Galás taught me how to imbue politics into music and PJ Harvey showed me to never repeat myself.

As a young, queer musician in America; do you think there is equality or do you feel like you have to fight hard to get your voice heard?

I think any musician trying to ‘make it’ has to fight super hard, point-blank. I’m not sure I have to try harder, necessarily, but I do get to fight a bit differently.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Just writing and recording the next album to follow my upcoming record, Supersoft. I plan a lot in advance – admittedly, I’m a control freak - so I already have an album title and track to start with.

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

When I was in high-school, we had a sort of talent show. At the time, I had all these weird songs about nuclear war and fallout and stuff...so I think that really cemented my musical and personal mindframe after I felt great about playing them live and after everyone kinda looked at me like I was a freak. I’ve always been a weirdo. After that, I felt like a powerful one.

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

Joanna Newsom - Ys

A true masterclass on rhyme, rhythm and the economy of words - so inspirational.

 Björk - Homogenic

A brilliant mix of impeccable sounds and melodies. Still sounds futuristic today.

 Songs: Ohia - Magnolia Electric Co.

My favorite album. Jason Molina’s songs just speak to me in this way where I become slack-jawed, landlocked and barren after hearing them.

As Christmas has coming; if you had to ask for one extra present (you have not already received) what would it be?

I’d probably ask for a Nintendo Switch so I can play Animal Crossing when it comes out. It’s truly the purest game ever created.

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

I would love to open for Susanne Sundfør. She’s so brilliant and one of the best Pop producers around. I had plans to see her on her latest tour - but I got sick and couldn’t go - so to see her perform and talk to her about our mutual hero Scott Walker would be a dream come true.

I have never had a show with an artist rider! I’d probably ask for nothing since I hate to be a burden…maybe I could make them play my own playlist before I go on stage.

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

If you’re a control freak like me, try to let things happen somewhat organically and see where you end up. Talk to yourself out-loud more often. Record every melody or lyric that pops in your head onto your phone. Demo things out a lot - because a ‘bad demo’ might have one thing you can salvage and become something better.

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

I actually have not played a single show in about five years. I’m working on it but I anticipate I’ll be solo.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Stone Irr

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Stone Irr is a dear friend who writes brilliant songs (and, yes, that is his actual name). He has this great way of taking the mundane and expanding it into something really captivating. His songs are diametrically opposite of mine in terms of narrative arc and composition - but they’re incredible nonetheless.

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

As of late, I’ve turned to video games (Dota 2 in particular). Ultimately, though, music has been the way I escape and unwind from the everyday world; so I hope it remains that way and I don’t find even more ways to avoid writing and recording.

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

I’d have to say You Don’t Know What Love Is by Diamanda Galás. An incredible cover of a classic tune, wherein she sustains this high note for like thirty seconds - it feels like an eternity in the best way possible.

Thank you! xoxo

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Follow Joey Walker

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INTERVIEW: Marike Jager

INTERVIEW:

IMAGE CREDIT: Martijn van de Griendt

Marike Jager

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IT has been fantastic speaking with Marike Jager...

about her latest track, Wasted, and discovering how it came to be. I ask her whether there is anything planned for the year ahead and what sort of music she is inspired by – Jager recommends a rising artist that we should get behind.

I ask the Dutch artist what the scene is like where she is and what we can expect from her upcoming album; a few albums that mean a lot to her and where we can catch her play – she ends the interview by choosing a great song.

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

I’m doing very well, thank you. It’s been quite an exciting week. I could finally announce my upcoming tour (The Electrifying Mini Tour) and I just cannot wait to get out and play. It has been a while since I played clubs but I still feel lots of support. Furthermore I celebrated my dad’s birthday - and my daughter got her first teeth.

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

I’m known as an adventurous singer/songwriter for years playing festivals, theatres; churches and Pop venues. Very recently, though, I felt this burst of energy and I wanted to make something different. This new record is so different then my earlier work. Less melancholy, more uplifting; quirky. It’s me playing and experimenting with sounds and vocals. I had so much fun. Really needed that. I guess the past years have been quite intense and it was time for something different.

I like working with other people to get inspired. For example, I got to meet Ron Sexsmith and we recorded a duet. I also performed with Hip-Hop dancer Shailesh Bahoran. Very inspiring. I toured with several orchestras and rediscovered my own music. And I worked with and ‘audiomachinist’: an artist who builds sounds. Very cool!

Last but not least, I got to meet the legendary mixer/producer Tchad Blake. He mixed my album. Another passionate and inspiring person. Furthermore...I love Gretsch and Fender guitars; Polaroid cameras, red wine and running in the rain.

Wasted is your new track. Can you talk about its background and inspiration?

I got myself a new guitar and it inspired me to write a guitar riff, a bassline to go along with it; some more guitar melodies. The song is about two people catching up after years. They share a history but nobody knows exactly what they’ve gone through together. It is obvious that they cannot be together, nor can they live without one another. They’re both wasted but still attracted to each other. The whole song has a trailer-thrash-kinda-‘80’s vibe to me. It’s like a movie scene with two oddball characters. I’m often inspired by oddballs…loners.

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

I guess the major theme is ‘imperfection’.

Though I am a perfectionist, I’ve always been attracted by imperfection. So, when it came to writing this album, I’ve managed to really have fun and let go of my perfectionism. I just played and experimented with sounds and vocals. So much fun and so much energy! When it comes to lyrics and themes, I like to write about imperfect people, oddballs and their unique stories.

Trying to crawl into the heads of wanderers, loners; vulnerable and odd people. I get inspired when a certain situation is just a bit off; when a character is a bit of a misfit.

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PHOTO CREDIT: Lieke Romeijn

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

It all started with The Beatles. As a kid, I couldn’t stop listening to their music and I kept watching them play guitar and sing. It always hit me big-time. Although I was a big fan of Ringo Starr, I was more attracted to playing guitar. So, I started playing and writing my first sketches when I was fifteen-years-old.

Much later, I got the chance to support Feist (Canada). That was so wonderfully overwhelming! This strong and adventurous woman playing a beautiful electric guitar! I was blown away and bought myself an electric guitar (Gretsch) right away. Her voice and artistic vision as an artist still inspire me a lot.

As a Dutch artist; what is the scene like there at the moment?

We educate a lot of musicians - at the moment there are so many music schools in Holland. So, I see many new bands and lots of talents pop up everywhere which is wonderful. At the same time, there has been a huge increase of festivals through the whole country. What worries me though is that our Government doesn’t support the music industry, talented bands or individual careers. It is very hard to build up a career; to get to play live and really focus on music.

PHOTO CREDIT: Martijn van de Griendt

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I’m releasing my new album! And I hope to play many clubs and festivals! (Smiles).

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

Tchad Blake mixed my third album and the one coming up. I’m such a big fan of his skills and his sound. He is awesome!

 PHOTO CREDIT: Lieke Romeijn

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

Fiona Apple – When the Pawn... She immediately blew me away with her strength, her vocal passion and emotional songwriting.

Lisa Germano – Magic Neighbor. Sound-wise: beautiful, very adventurous.

David Byrne and St. Vincent - Love This Giant. Hits me every time I play it. What a record! Great arrangements, two great songwriters; obviously inspired by each other.

As Christmas is here; if you had to ask for one present (that you haven’t already received) what would it be?

I’d love to go for a walk along the Dutch coast together with Mark Everett and then bump into Beck Hansen. We’d talk about life and seek beautiful shells...then write a song together. A song so beautiful that the whole world would sing a long and live happily ever after.

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

I would love to join David Byrne’s live band and sing a duet with him.

PHOTO CREDIT: Anne Reitsma 

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

April 9th – Paradiso, Amsterdam (NL)

April 10th – Ekko, Utrecht (NL)

April 12th – Merleyn, Nijmegen (NL)

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Don’t let the socials fool you. Turn off your phone, get out and play; work hard and write a great song.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: AWKWARD i/PHOTO CREDIT: Tim Knol Fotografie/Tim Knol

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

AWKWARD i.

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

I love to go for a run along the water. I totally unwind.

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).

AWKWARD i – Milkshakes Funnelcakes

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Follow Marike Jager

INTERVIEW: Nella Cole

INTERVIEW:

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Nella Cole

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MY Christmas Eve interview is with Nella Cole...

who has been talking about her new single, All Out, and how it came to be. She tells me about some great memories in music and what she has coming up; approaching artists to follow and what she would like for Christmas.

Cole reveals a few albums that are important to her and which artist she’d support on tour if she had the chance; some advice that rising musicians should take to heart and how she unwinds away from music – she ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hey! I’m great, thank you! I’ve been auditioning a lot this past week for some musical theater projects so it’s been pretty busy, but awesome!

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

Sure! My name is Nella Cole. I’m a Pop recording artist, actor and dancer; born and raised in N.Y.C. My single, All Out, is available everywhere and the music video just dropped on VEVO - so check it out! My style is dreamy, but grounded; edgy but sweet! 

All Out is your new single. What is the story behind it?

All Out is all about living completely free and wild in the moment! I wanted to write a song that captured the spirit of some of my nights out in N.Y.C., which is a huge inspiration to me. I love dressing up with my friends, walking the streets going from place to place; meeting new people, listening to music and dancing all night. All Out was created after retelling some of these stories to the producers I worked with out in L.A. Most of the lyrics are derived from things that have actually happened!

Do you think it is your most authentic and confident track?

I think all of the tracks are pretty authentic and confident. Haha! There was a really fearless approach to this E.P. We were writing from the most confident part of ourselves and it kind of felt like nothing was off limits. I think All Out is a great intro to what is in store and kind of the outermost layer of Planet Nella Cole (smiles). In future projects, I’m actually interested in exploring the other side of that spectrum and touching on more of my introspective side.

I understand there is an E.P. planned. Are there particular stories that inspired the songs?

All of my music and lyrics are inspired by some time or place in my real life! A lot of times, I’ll go into the studio and start talking about something that’s on my mind that day and the song begins from there. What's really special to me is the memories that come from the creative process and the significance a certain song has from the period in your life when it was written. Upon completing my E.P., the producers and I went out and got tattoos together! That is something I will never forget and represents a great moment in my life. 

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Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

Definitely! I would say different artists have inspired me in different stages of my life. The first song I ever sang was Alive by Pearl Jam. I was maybe three or four-years-old, so I was probably the youngest rocker around. I had a love for music of all genres at a really young age. I remember being in awe of Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera in their Behind the Music episodes and knowing I wanted to do that too. 

Beyoncé was also a huge influence on me as a young teen. My best friend and I would come home every day after school and watch her concert DVDs in his living room. We would be singing and jumping around on the couches and acting everything out with her! 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes! I’m planning to release more music in 2019 as well as more visual content on my VEVO channel so stay tuned! We’re also setting up performance dates now and are in talks with one of my favorite female brands for a special collaboration! I’m also always working on different acting and dancing projects. A film I worked on called Vox Lux starring Natalie Portman is actually in theaters now. I play one of her backup dancers and will be going to see the film in my hometown movie theater this week! 2018 has been a really great year for me and I’m hoping to continue to build on all of this past year’s accomplishments in 2019!

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

There are so many memories that are very special to me. One of my favorites was from an earlier time in my career when I headlined a New Year’s Eve show at the Revel Hotel in Atlantic City. This was the first time I had done a show like this and we had the whole nine yards: dancers, background vocalists; costume changes, lights and more. It filled me with so much joy and a newfound confidence in myself as this was one of the first times I had really stepped out as a musical artist. It was an incredible way to bring in the New Year. 

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

Wow. This question has me reminiscing. Haha.

Born to Die by Lana Del Rey changed my life. I had never heard anything like it before and it really shocked me and changed my way of thinking about my music. Everything about her art was mesmerizing to me. It was so different and made me feel like there was space for me in this world to be my authentic self.

Looking back…Take Care by Drake was definitely the soundtrack to a time in my life when I kind of felt like I was in limbo. That album means a lot to me because it made me realize that the best music is honest music. Drake really expressed what he was feeling in such a clear and relatable way and it made me feel like I wasn’t alone. I want to be able to do that for other people with my music. 

And last, but not least, I have to shout out the Rent Soundtrack for meaning even more to me now than it did when I first fell in love with it. The music and message resonated with me so deeply when I was younger - but I didn’t fully understand it all. Now that I have more life experience it hits even harder. “No day, but today”.

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

Hmmm...this is a tough question. A vacation to the Caribbean or a shopping spree (if that counts) is the easy answer but, to be honest, the best present for me is to share my music with the world and make an impact on my audience and everyone who believes in me. 

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

I would love to support artists like Bruno Mars or Ariana Grande. Somebody in the Pop realm with a really exciting live show.

As far as a rider; I’m pretty simple to be honest. Just need a quiet space with some tea and water (smiles).

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I think the best piece of advice I could give is not to take anything personally in the entertainment industry. If you understand that nothing is personal, it’s much easier to stay focused and motivated when things don’t go according to plan. This business is all about stamina because it’s very difficult to be a part of.

There will be lots of nos and lots of obstacles but, when you love it and you are able to remain neutral to the roadblocks, the little victories are so worth it. (Also remembering that the love and joy in creating art is the most important thing of all). Do what you love and makes you happy! 

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

Maybe (winks). Keep a look out on my Instagram (@thatgurlnella).

IN THIS PHOTO: Hayley Kiyoko

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I’ve been obsessed with Hayley Kiyoko these days. Also, King Princess! Would love to collaborate with any of these bad-ass ladies.

IN THIS PHOTO: King Princess

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

As an artist and performer, my schedule is always changing from day to day. It's also really easy to work from home, so ‘clocking out’ is the hard part when you’re a workaholic like me. I am learning how to take more time for rest and relaxation and seeing the value and importance in that. As ‘woo woo’ as this sounds (haha); I really enjoy doing spiritual work on myself and in my life.

I love listening to the SuperSoul Conversations podcast with Oprah! It's so inspiring and makes me feel more relaxed and connected to myself and the world around me! I also love spending time with my close friends and just hanging at one of our houses and talking all night. 

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).

Fly Me to the Moon (In Other Words) by Frank Sinatra - because I bet you weren’t expecting that and because I’m Italian (smiles).

Thanks so much!

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Follow Nella Cole

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INTERVIEW: Phé

INTERVIEW:

Phé

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IT has been great speaking with Phé...

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about her new E.P., Crisis, and what sort of themes inspired it. I ask her whether she has a favourite cut from the E.P. and the artists/albums that mean a lot to her; whether she has any plans worked out for 2019 and which rising acts we should keep an eye out for.

The U.S. songwriter tells me about Los Angeles and how important it was moving there; what advice she would give to artists coming through right now and how she spends time away from music – Phé ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hey! My week has been good. Pretty crazy, but good! I released my debut E.P. on Friday (December 14th) and then flew home to Canada on the 16th, so it’s been a packed weekend.

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

My name is Phé. I’m twenty-four years old, and I’m an independent, contemporary R&B artist, originally from Vancouver Canada but currently living in Los Angeles. I attended the Berklee College of Music where I studied Songwriting, Vocal Performance and Music Business. And it was actually during my time at Berklee that I decided to pursue a full-time career as a solo artist and songwriter.

Fun fact: I love Disney movies - I know, essentially, all the words to all the songs from the Disney Princess movies. I also really love musical theatre and wanted to be on Broadway growing up.

Crisis is your new E.P. What sort of themes and idea inspired the songs?

My debut E.P., Crisis, follows my first experience with love and heartbreak. It explores themes of love and heartbreak but, deeper than that, it really takes a look at my experience with love at a young age and how I lost myself in the relationship. So, when it ended, I felt like I had lost myself and my sense of worth. So, the project looks at the ideas of self-love and self-worth; sexual exploration and sexuality; mental-health, drug and alcohol abuse and how I dealt with those things throughout my relationship and breakup.

Do you have a favourite song from the E.P.?

That’s a hard one for me! They all hold a really special place in my heart because they played such a large role in my healing process. But, Incredible is definitely my baby because it was the first song I wrote that felt like something I would want to release as an artist. It was my first exploration as an artist and was really the catalyst for my journey as Phé.

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music? Who do you count as idols?

Some of the artists I really look up to are Erykah Badu, Sade and Lauryn Hill. These three women really stood out and impacted me when I was young! They all hold such an incredible power and have their own special feminine energy that I really admire - and that spoke to me from a very young age. Growing up, I would listen to their music, watch videos of their live performances - and music videos - and was just so drawn to the way they carried themselves, expressed their stories and invited the listeners into their space. Each is super-different and I look to each of them for something different.

You are based in Los Angeles. How important is the city and the people regarding your sound and drive?

Moving to L.A, was a huge step for me and was not an easy transition at all. It’s a giant city with a lot of people - a majority of who seem to be in the entertainment industry in some capacity. So, that was super-overwhelming for me! But, having started to find my groove - and settle in here -, I’ve been able to take advantage of how great of a city it is.

A large chunk of my community from Berklee is actually in L.A., so I’m lucky enough to have a huge support system and a large network of creatives to work with. It keeps me in check and allows for me to always be creating and collaborating with amazing people that I wouldn’t be able to work with in the same way, if I wasn’t in L.A. I think being in the middle of all the action (which, for the music industry, mostly takes place in L.A.) is super-important. It allows you to be in spaces and make connections that you just don’t have access to in other cities.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I definitely have plans for 2019! With the E.P. finished and released that frees up a lot of time to work on writing and recording music new music. I don’t have anything set in terms of the next release - I want to enjoy this release and let the next project happen organically. But, I am always creating and working on new stuff so, as I create more, the next project will become a little more concrete.

I also want to play more shows in 2019 because I love being on stage and playing live. Beyond that, I’ve recently started playing around with production which has been a lot of fun and has helped me to find a new outlet of expression! So, I want to keep learning and building up that skill.

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

I would have to say my most recent, favorite memory would be a show I played at Winston House in Venice. The space and the audience had such a beautiful energy and we were all just present and there sharing this moment together. It was a space where I felt truly seen and heard and where my music got to speak for itself - and people were super-receptive of that.

I feel like in today’s social climate, we don’t often get moments where everyone is present and open and to feel that energy of support and presence from a crowd of people - and then to be able to give that same energy back - was a really beautiful and transcendent experience.

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

This one is a little tough for me because there's a lot of music out there that hold a special place in my heart or life. A lot of my memories are associated with music or with events that surrounded music, so to pick three that means the most is a bit of a challenge. But I think, overall, the albums that really opened my eyes and inspired me to be the honest, vulnerable and explorative artist that I am are the following:

Frank Ocean - Chanel Orange

I had never heard an album like this before and the first time I heard it, I was immediately hooked and inspired. It’s so smart, so well done and is a beautiful body of work that takes the listener (or at least me)on a new journey every time. The sonics, language; imagery and stories in this album are all so beautifully crafted and expressed. Frank invites the listener into these intimate and personal moments. And not only that, but he paint such great pictures of each moment: one can’t help but feel like that are there or they experienced it themselves.

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Solange - A Seat at the Table

This album speaks to me heavy. Solange tells these stories of her experience as a young woman of color in such a poetic and beautiful way, even though the experiences or emotions that she is depicting really tough and painful things to go through. Her art of storytelling, both musically and visually, honestly blows me away. She is gentle with herself, yet commands this unmistakable power.

Having also interned for Solange and her team, and seeing the songs come to life in a live performance setting, was also a magical experience that really opened my eyes and mind as a young woman and artist. Every moment is so well thought out and has so much intention. And, I think that's a huge lesson that we as young people need to learn regardless of our race, class; social status, career path etc. To move through life purpose and intention...

Lastly, I would say the soundtracks to the Disney Princess Movies that were released between 1989 and 1998 - Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid; Mulan, Pocahontas; Aladdin and Hercules, even though they aren’t technically ‘princess’ movies.

These movies and their soundtracks were sort of how I started singing as a little girl. I would sit and re-watch them over and over; singing along to every word of every song - and that's how I taught myself to sing. They were my first exploration of my voice and allowed me to feel free and happy. Even now, when I’m not feeling so great or just need to be cheered up, my boyfriend will put on a song from one of these movies and it honestly perks me right up. I will dance around our apartment singing along at the top of my lungs and, by the time the song is over, I almost always feel better.

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

For Christmas this year, I would ask that you - my family, friends and fans - share my E.P. with one other person who hasn’t heard of me or of the project. That would mean so much! I just want my music to bring clarity and healing to people’s lives.

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

My rider would be pretty simple, honestly. I’m not too fussy. Ahaha. It would probably include bourbon, honey; lemon and hot water for a nice hot toddy to loosen the nerves a bit pre-show, without drying out the vocal cords too much. Some snacks that aren’t too heavy for before the show - fruits/berries and veg (no honeydew, cantaloupe; peppers or mushrooms) - hummus, crackers and maybe like assorted Clif Bars.

And hot Cheetos and Sour Patch Kids for a post-show snack! (Laughs).

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What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Trust your instincts; be honest with yourself and try to be as objective as possible when it comes to the business of your craft. The universe didn’t show everyone else your vision or your purpose: it showed you! So, trust yourself and listen to how people, spaces; situations, your music; the choices you are faced with and the way you are going about building your career make you feel. Is it authentic? Does it satisfy your spirit?

With that, it’s also important to be honest with yourself and as objective as possible when it comes to running your business - which is your brand, your music and your career. What are your strengths? What isn’t working? Why? What needs to change or could improve? These are questions that we need to constantly be asking ourselves and re-evaluating.

There are a lot of people out there that can help you but there are also people will take advantage of you. There are people who want the best for you and those that want the best for themselves. But, at the end of the day, you hold the power for how far you can go. So, be sure you are having that internal dialogue and constantly checking in with yourself. Just be real. Be you. That's what the world needs and people resonate with that.

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

I am working on some dates for the New Year but, right now, I have one gig with Sofar Sounds confirmed for January - location T.B.A. but everything will be announced on my socials.

Follow me on the socials to stay up to date on future shows!

IN THIS PHOTO: Jessie Munro

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Ouuu...there are so many! Especially because a lot of my friends are in music and have really amazing projects.

Jessie Munro is INCREDIBLE! She released a project a couple months ago and it’s soo good. LILI N is an Italian R&B/Pop artist and songwriter who is about to blow up. Check out her single, Spiritual Level. And, another super-cool up and coming artist is Mafalda. She does really beautiful Indie/Alternative Pop music that will shake your soul.

IN THIS PHOTO: LILI N/PHOTO CREDIT: Lizzie Steimer

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

My chill time is very sporadic and random, because I do generally make my own schedule and I find that I work better when I am busy. Very recently, a lot of my usual free time has been filled with playing around with music production - because that’s something new and exciting to me.

But, outside of music, one of my biggest priorities is spending time with the people I love - my boyfriend and friends (or my family when I am visiting home). I also love Netflix (maybe a little bit too much). I really enjoy cooking and baking. I’ve been exploring the different hiking spots in L.A. and I love going to see live shows when I have the time and money - it’s hard out here for an independent artist (laughs). I also enjoy learning about things like auras and energy, astrology; numerology, human design; holistic healing methods etc.

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).

D’Evils by SiR

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Follow Phé 

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INTERVIEW: Delena

INTERVIEW:

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Delena

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I do not have too many interviews left this year...

but I have been getting to discover more about Delena and her latest track, Animal. She shares the story behind the track and reveals what is coming next – I ask whether there any particular artists and albums that have particularly inspired her.

She talks about plans for next year and what she thinks of modern Pop; whether she gets time to unwind away from music and whether she grew up around a lot of music – Delena ends the interview by selecting a cool song.

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

Hi! I’m good! Looking forward to the Christmas holidays and New Year! 

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

For those who don’t know me, I am Delena! I was born in Kiev and my music is inspired by my life growing up there, which wasn’t always easy - and you can see in my song titles it’s very freedom-inspired! 

 

Animal is your new track. What is the story behind it?

The story behind Animal is how I feel and used to feel while growing up (and even sometimes now)! I wanted a song which is strong and powerful and anybody in the world could relate! Animal is a symbol of being free, strong and honest to yourself! People every day are struggling to be who they want to be and it’s not okay! Everyone must be able to speak their minds free! 

Who are the artists that inspired you growing up? Did you grow up around a lot of different music?

I have got a lot of inspiration in my life! As a child, I would listen to Queen and Michael Jackson! I would also listen to Ella Fitzgerald and Etta James! I would always listen to music as a child and I never got tired of it.

What do you think of the modern Pop industry? Do you think it has strengthened over the last few years?

The Pop industry today has developed in so many ways! And I think it did strengthened! Everyone today has got a chance to show their talent in so many ways! And it requires you to be different in so many ways which I think is amazing!  

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Oh, yes! I am so looking forward 2019! I can’t wait to put out new music and work on my album! 

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

I would say that every memory in music is my favorite! I love it so much that I can’t just choose between them!

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

Music is my source of inspiration! It helps me when I’m down and it helps me when I’m up! I don’t know what I would do without it! I would probably end up listening to the winds. Ha-ha.

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

I would ask to be with whole family together because this year we all going to be in the different parts of the world! 

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

I would probably want to support The Weeknd or Bruno Mars! They are great talented artists and I love their music! And, in my rider, I would probably ask for some Ukrainian food like Pirozhki. 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

I would say that it’s very important to be true to yourself and understand what you really want! Take advice and be open to anything coming into your life. It’s all happening for a reason! 

Which three albums mean the most to you? 

If I’m honest, I don't really listen to many albums! I mostly listen to singles and go to shows of artists I love. I'm a big fan of Adele, The Weeknd and Sia though. 

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

Not yet! But I will be working on this very hard! 

 IN THIS PHOTO: Kali Uchis

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

I really like Kali Uchis! She is so interesting to listen to! Her music can be very inspiring! And also, I like Lauren Jauregui! Her new single is great and the video is amazing!

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Lauren Jauregui

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

Usually, I don’t want to chill from music because, as I mentioned before, music is everything to me! But I love to travel and spend time with family! There is nothing better than being all together! 

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 please pay Kali Uchis - After the Storm 

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Follow Delena

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INTERVIEW: BABYTEETH

INTERVIEW:

BABYTEETH

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THE epic BABYTEETH...

have been talking with me about their cracking song, Cocoon, and how it came to be; whether there will be any more material coming and how the band came to be – I ask which albums are most important to them and what sort of music compels them.

BABYTEETH tell me whether there are tour dates coming up and who they’d support given the chance; if they have a favourite memory from their time in music so far and what advice they would give to artists coming through - they select me select a quintet of songs to end things with.

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

BITCHIN’! Sam was bitten by a wild animal and fell down a hole in the pub. The rest of us are dandy. We’ve been rehearsing.

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

We used to be babies…and now we have teeth...

Cocoon is your new single. Can you talk about the background and how it came together?

Camilla and Sam write the songs; we then arrange it together in our sweaty little rehearsal room. We recorded this one a little while ago in London with the awesome Cam Blackwood producing it.

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

YES! Itching to share it all with everyone.

How did BABYTEETH get together? What drew you to one another?

We met through friends. And, after all of our periods synced up immediately, we knew it was the perfect match.

 PHOTO CREDIT: Gastón Torres

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

We just love really great song writing, regardless of genre. There isn’t any music snobbery with us. Our music tastes are pretty eclectic.

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

A trip to Chessington World of Adventures with Gareth Gates.

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Do you already have plans for 2019?

Big ‘yes’. We’re not allowed to tell you yet but it’s gonna be mega. We’re excited. 

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

Playing with Adam Ant this Wednesday will be our best new memory. Unless we fall of stage or piss our pants in front of thousands of people or something.

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

Hole – Live Through This; Beach Boys – Pet Sounds; Deep Purple - Made in Japan; Radiohead - OK Computer; Rage Against the Machine – Rage Against the Machine. Because they inspired us to become musicians and songwriters and give us the belly feels. It’s more fun if you guess which one of us chose what.

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

Garbage. And we’d like a team of dancing dwarves and a massive bottle of Bourbon.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Do something else...music’s full. If you just can’t help yourself though then work absolutely ridiculously hard to get better than everyone else - and maybe also be willing to sell an organ or two to pay your rent.

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

Yes - but they’re not announced yet so keep checking in on our Facebook for updates. Thank you, please.

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Us, us and us. There are lots of other great acts but we need you more. And we’ll love you more than they will, we promise.

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

Stroking cats, eating chips and snogging people.

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).

Thank you very much for playing our music. We love you more than Santa loves children. As it’s Christmas, we’ll let you pick a song from each of our all-time favourite albums!

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Follow BABYTEETH

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INTERVIEW: Riva Taylor

INTERVIEW:

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Riva Taylor

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I have been lucky enough to speak with the fabulous Riva Taylor...

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about her new single, Mr Right, and its story. I ask whether there is too much pressure put on women to be settled and in relationships; what she has planned as we head into 2019 and a few albums that are important to her.

Taylor tells me about the musicians who inspired her to go into the business; a precious musical memory and whether she gets much chance to chill away from things – she ends the interview by selecting a great track.

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

Hi! It’s been a good week. Christmas festivities in full swing; planning some exciting things for the New Year. Celebrating with friends and forward motion - enjoy both a lot! (Smiles). 

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

Hi. I’m Riva! A singer-songwriter from London. I’ve been singing from before I can remember and making records since I was twelve. 

 

Mr Right is your new single. What is the tale behind the song?

This is a song about music and men. Let’s say the song stuck, the ‘Mr’ didn't. 

It is about the constant that is music in my life. Something that has always been there; a positive force. The song personifies music as a more ideal man. It draws a comparison between the inconsistency and unpredictability of relationships and the constant joy that can be found in music! There is a reference to Adele's Someone Like You in the second verse. The listener could substitute music for any of their passions in life and the song still works (I hope!). If they’re really lucky, they could insert the name of their partner! 

Given the relationship demands and expectations suggested in the title; do you think there is too much pressure on women to settle for someone?

Wow. I could write an essay on this! We are definitely living through an interesting time with some significant changes and shifting attitudes in this area. Women seem to be challenging social norms and expectations more than ever. While there are some undeniable pressures for women by a certain age to settle, I don’t think there is too much with a growing weight placed on gender equality, choice and scientific advances throwing all sorts of interesting questions and options into the ring for women.

I love a podcast and there are constant questions surrounding ideas of polyamory, true love and happiness. Do we need to find a ‘Mr. Right’ to achieve our own self-satisfaction and happiness? I know for many friends, happiness has come in the form of settling down. For others, it’s been understanding and accepting that they don’t need to or there is no rush. There seems to be a greater understanding of our choices when it comes to the quest to achieve our own fulfilment potential! 

Do you think there will be more material coming next year?

A whole album’s worth! I can’t wait to share what I’ve been developing the past few years with everyone. 

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

Into music the first time...so many and, at different points in my career as I effectively re-entered music after a pause from it all when I was in my early-twenties. In fact, as a kid on the West End stage, the beginning for me was Streisand and the old Hollywood golden girls who glamorised performance (for me) and made me want to get up there. As I grew up a bit, Annie Lennox, Kate Bush and Sade were all playing in the house when I was a kid and I was obsessed with their music videos and live performances.

They opened my eyes to a world of artistic individuality - their music was as original and authentic as their image felt. And there are still artists who emerge and inspire me to continue and explore new avenues and options for my career. Evolution is so important for any artist - Adele being one. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I’m releasing more music. I’m excited to be heading over to the States to do some more writing early next year - although the album is done I think it’s important to never stop if you’re feeling creative! I’m also really excited to be starting a songwriting night at The Roundhouse which I’ve been helping to organise showcasing some of the amazing songwriting talents we have in the U.K. 

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

Tough one. I’m going to give you a few! Standing on the Twickenham pitch about to sing the National Anthem - the buzz; there were BIG flames flying everywhere and so much suspense. 

My debut at the Royal Albert hall and the nervousness and excitement associated with the importance of that; especially knowing Prince Charles was in the audience. 

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

Coldplay - Parachutes

An album that I will always listen to from start to finish! Such great material on there. Reminds me of lying on my bed studying for my GCSEs with so much excitement for the future.  

Michael Jackson - Bad

Always a go-back-to. Lifts my mood whether that’s during a workout or in the car. It is full of nostalgic happiness. I remember making dance routines to it as a young girl. Amazing to hang with the producer who made this in L.A. and hear the stories behind its making. 

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Kate Bush - Hounds of Love

Another inspiration of mine. I grew up hearing this in the house. My dad was such a fan! Another one I used to mime to as I mimicked Kate’s dance moves! 

I have to add to this one of my favourite feel-good albums of the past few years - Taylor Swift’s 1989. A great Pop record. Taylor’s choices and approach to the business always interests me.  

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

I’d love to take my mum and go to Borneo and hang out with the beautiful little orangutans. So tragic what’s happening there and I’m looking to support and encourage people to protect them any way I can. I’m also obsessed with the idea of a pet cat right now but maybe bit cruel for Santa to bring her down the chimney...so she might be a part of my life in the New Year. I’m liking the name ‘Stella’. Sorry, I totally gave you two there and neither can be wrapped up and put in a stocking!

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

Wow. That’s such a tough one. There are a few! Love to support the legend Elton (John) before he retires...I have a few months. I also have this dream of performing alongside Matt Bellamy and Muse, performing an epic power ballad at one of their shows! 

My own rider usually involves a lot of fruit and lemons, flat Coke; a small amount of port for before the show and celebratory drink for after (unless I’m performing the next day). Milk for Stella (T.B.C.). 

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Persevere. If the magic doesn’t happen overnight - which it likely won’t -, do not lose hope. Longevity is everything so long as you can find joy in the build. Surround yourself with a team who will support your vision, who you respect and challenge you to be your best. It can take time to find that but keep looking. Remain true to that vision, you know! 

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

These will be announced in the New Year...

 IN THIS PHOTO: Grace Carter/PHOTO CREDIT: SHOT BY PHOX

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Enjoying Grace Carter’s vibe and her track, Silence! Looking forward to hearing what’s next from her. 

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

It’s always quite difficult to switch off from things - the ‘out of office’ is never on! But, it is healthy to. I enjoy my fitness and yoga and start my day as much as possible in the gym. I also love art for a bit of escapism and inspiration. Chilling with friends is always a healer! 

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).

Ha. Thank you! Imagine Dragons - Bad Liar. Always enjoy their music! 

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INTERVIEW: Saint Lo.

INTERVIEW:

Saint Lo.

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FOR today’s interview...

I have been speaking with Saint Lo. about their new track, Wounds, and what its story is. They reveal how they got together and what is coming up in 2019; what the scene is like in Canada right now and which rising artists we should watch out for.

The band talks to me about their favourite musical memory and albums; what sort of music they are drawn to and what they would like for Christmas this year – they end the interview by selecting a couple of very cool tracks.

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

It has been good! We released our video for our single, Wounds, last week and played a lovely show in Montreal this past Sunday. It’s been a good week. It's also approaching -20° in Montreal so we're keeping warm.

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

We are Saint Lo. We are an Indie Folk Pop-Rock band from Montreal. Our band members are Bashu Naimi-Roy, Marc Richard; Laura Glover, Isabella Harned - and our most recent addition is Jory Strachan.  

Wounds is the new track. Is there a story behind it?

Yes. Wounds was inspired by heartbreak/pain that came from the ending of a three-year-long relationship and the strength that came from sitting with and acknowledging pain and then turning it into art. Wounds grew from an experience that was deeply rooted in the process of healing. The lyrics were co-written by Bella and Laura and the whole band collaborated on instrumentation and arrangement. In the direction of our music video, we really wanted to capture that heartbreak does not occur in isolation; it is marked by many intersecting systems of power.

We wanted to challenge the male gaze by depicting our actor moving through suffering, sadness; playfulness, creativity and, ultimately, healing - on her own.  

How did Saint Lo. form? Is there a secret behind the band’s name?

Saint Lo formed in 2013 in the Mile End area of Montreal. We came together serendipitously through mutual connections. We noticed a certain magic when we played together and we’ve been nourishing it ever since. We were previously known as ‘St Lawrence Warehouse Company’ after an old building.

You are a Canadian band. Is there a strong and growing music scene in the country?

Our band members come from all across Canada - Nova Scotia, British Columbia and Ontario. We recently toured British Columbia and it was a beautiful experience. We think the Canadian music scene is super-strong and supportive - we have felt nothing but love in all the places we’ve played. We are also very smitten with many other Canadian musicians whom we’ve met in Montreal and on the road. Super-proud to be part of the Canadian music community, for sure.  

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

We are a band with many individual and collective influences: among them are Fleetwood Mac, Sylvan Esso; Arcade Fire, Haley Heynderickx; Janis Joplin, Emma Ruth Rundle; Andy Shauf, Phoebe Bridgers; Godspeed You Black Emperor, Cat Power and Broken Social Scene, to name a few.

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

A complete transition to sustainable energy systems! And dark chocolate is nice too.

Do you already have plans for 2019?

Yes! We have a few surprises that will be announced in the New Year. We will also be releasing our debut L.P. in 2019. Stay tuned!

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

In a small mountain town in British Columbia, there's a siren that goes off at a certain time every night for one hundred years now. It's ear-splittingly loud, very close by the venue we were playing and nobody thought to tell us about it. It went off in the middle of our show. Thankfully, we didn't panic.

The promoter admitted afterwards that she didn't warn us because she likes to see the look of complete incomprehension on visitors’ faces. The siren also happened to be perfectly in key with the song we were playing in that moment. So, that memory and memories of being hosted by beautiful warm people all along our tour.

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

Bashu: Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas To Heaven by Godspeed You! Black Emperor. I was fourteen and it was the first album I bought. I didn't know you were allowed to make music like that.

Bella: Joni Mitchell’s Blue. My earliest memory of loving a whole album was lying on the couch with my mum (I think I was nine or ten) singing the lyrics at the top of our lungs to the entirety of it. Still to this day my favourite album of all time.

Jory: Tournament of Hearts by the Constantines. I don't think any album compares to the song structures and brilliance in writing. Very formative album.  

Laura: Julia Jacklin - Don’t Let The Kids Win. I’m super-inspired by Julia Jacklin’s writing.

Marc: Joel Plaskett - Three. I learned what I know about song structures by listening to this prolific album.

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

It would be sweet to play with Mountain Man or Big Thief. Our rider would probably involve an elaborate snack plate.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

Believe people when they believe in you.

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

We have some exciting announcements coming up soon! You can hear them by liking our Facebook page or following us on Instagram (at @sttt.lo.)

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

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Bashu: My two favorite new and hard-to-Google bands are Someone and Pronoun and they are both very worthwhile. I've also recently been moved by Fenne Lily, IDER; ANIMA!, Saint Sister and Andy Shauf's new band Foxwarren.

Jory: I'd highly recommend keeping an eye out for housepanther and JayWood out of Winnipeg, MB in 2019. Also Montreal's yoo doo right are doing exciting things.

Bella: I’d recommend checking out Victoria BC’s, Looelle - incredible velvety harmonies.

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Looelle/PHOTO CREDIT: Mike Graeme

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

We like to go to shows, spend time with our pets; be outside and host improbably-themed house parties.

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

Bashu: Thanks for having us! I'll choose Abigail by Richard Garvey

Bella: Tomberlin – Self-Help

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INTERVIEW: Banner.

INTERVIEW:

Banner.

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MY first piece of the day is a chat...

with Banner., who has been telling me about his upcoming E.P., Years in Shade, and what inspired it. He talks about his musical past and some albums that are important to him; where we can catch him gig and what the music scene is like in the Netherlands at the moment.

Banner. shares his plans for 2019 and recommends a rising act; how he spends time away from music and how he feels his new E.P. differs from his previous work – he gives some useful advice for any musicians coming through right now.

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

I'm doing very well, actually. Just added another year of age to my tally while releasing my track Years in Shade which is the title track for my upcoming E.P. and I celebrated both last weekend. Also, having my sis' birthday a day behind mine means I don't have any reason not to have fun.

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

I was born and raised in The Hague (still live there) and write 'folkish' pop songs. I just turned twenty-three. I taught myself how to play the guitar at the age of twelve and began writing songs when I was eighteen. I'm intrigued by finger-picking and use some alternate tunings. I tend to rely mostly on my guitar for new songs so, in a way, I'm making guitar pieces that more or less stand by themselves.

The E.P., Years in Shade, is out next year. What can you reveal about the songs and ideas that we will hear?

The songs that appear on the E.P happen to be a bit more personal. The tracklist consists of five songs that I put in chronological order of me going through stuff (not to sound dramatic, though, I'm fine.) Most of them have a different presence in the songs in terms of 'how' I play; meaning the tracks have a more 'upright' approach of movability and perhaps have more space for vocals. I'd have to say it would be more 'accessible' yet (could be) easier to listen to. Basically, I could say the songs are built with more of a 'Pop' construction, which enables a certain playfulness on stage while playing with band.

How do you think your latest E.P. differs from your earliest stuff?

The approach to writing the songs definitely differs from the tracks that are on the Over Blue E.P. The first one was me starting out trying to develop a ‘sound’ (if that's what you want to call it) while the second was more about experimenting and finding out if my songs were compatible with different sounds and purposes. I never intentionally started experimenting with these songs. But, also, I sort of did. Meaning that what I was doing while writing the songs was all natural and felt as the right thing to do. 

Part of the process was freeing up some space and take a step back in complexity and let my first mind guide me through the tracks that would later become the Years in Shade E.P. I kind of challenged myself to let go and leave more blanks for the band members to fill in and the whole process itself was a very learning experience. An experience that is going to be helpful for my future me as a musician.

Are there particular artists that inspired you to get into music?

The reason I developed a love for music has various reasons, but I can't remember one certain artist that dragged me into the whole songwriting thingy. The thought of music itself was just more appealing to me I think. At first, I only played guitar for a five years and went f'ing around with different genres and also a loop pedal but, after a while, I was sick of not having a product or result which I could identify myself with...until I kind of gradually got into songwriting and it immediately made an impact as I took it more seriously, which was caused because I entered a music competition just two months after writing my first songs and made it to the final. So, that was a very good start and very motivating. 

Do you already have plans for 2019?

I recently got back into writing new songs. So, I might have an idea of what would be part of it. Other than that; it's safe to say that I'll play some in Germany and some more back here in the Netherlands but, as a musician, I'm always looking forward to what might happen in the near future and that makes 2019 no exception with my new E.P coming up and getting more and more opportunities to play live in countries other than the Netherlands.

You are a Dutch artist. What is the scene like in the Netherlands at the moment? Is it growing in terms of its music?

It's easy for me to keep track of everyone’s movement because you're actually in not that big of a boat and you have to share it with others. But, whether Dutch music is evolving? I can't really tell. Everything that's happening nowadays in the music industry is very promising, but I don't see that directly flowing through the Dutch music industry. Tons of Dutch artists might be a bit doomed to get big but just in the Netherlands.

I also don't know whether it's a choice or a curse. You could say getting big is easier here in the lowlands because we're a relatively small country with decent resources to play music - but since it's so small you can easily play every venue in the country in a short amount of time which, in my opinion, is a bit scary when you're working on something new but the places you visit are the same every time you go on tour, that must be a bit repetitive. That's why I tend to focus not solely on Dutch grounds (Not to throw shade at Dutch venues or artists though). Either way, there are lots of colleagues here doing a great job and that doesn't have to be kept a secret. 

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

Tons of memories I have from being a musician and they are mostly all great, but one moment that I keep thinking of is playing support for Newton Faulkner and Villagers. Big crowds being super-quiet and respectful; also fun and kind people to talk to afterwards. People describing what they see and what I do in maybe a bit more technical way is a bit dull sometimes, but people explaining what it does to them and their feelings is what really makes a difference for me as a songwriter.

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

Ben Howard - I Forget Where We Were 

For me, this album was an eye-opener because it showed me how versatile a songwriter could be. Not meaning that he is capable of playing every genre, but as in how deep you could dig into your own music and by doing so having a progressive mindset. Don't know if these were his intentions but that's what I learned from it trying to be progressive songwriter. Also, he just doesn't seem to be bothered anymore by the Every Kingdom era, despite the popular demand. He's a songwriter who earned his stripes with nothing other than making music he wants to make. I really dig Noonday Dreams but I have to give I.F.W.W.W. most of the credits in terms of I approach my own music.

Nick Mulvey - Wake Up Now

Such a sweet-sounding and loving record, which is also how I would describe Nick Mulvey as a person based on seeing him a few times live and listening to his interviews. In these interviews, Nick describes the progress of recording/writing as learning and liberating since he would let go of being in control all the time. Something I felt I was doing while making my new record. One of my favourite songs of all time is on this record and it's called In Your Hands which, in my opinion, is astonishing.

Sticky Fingers - Land of Pleasure 

Been following these guys for a while now, since they released their album Caress Your Soul, and ever since they just kept delivering such pleasant and fun songs. They're so easy to listen to on so many occasions and I can come up with just few bands that keep delivering the way they do, without sacrificing their identity. Why Land of Pleasure speaks to me the most is because I remember them playing bits of that album for the first time and I absolutely lost my head back then. It was at a tiny venue located on the beach with just the most beautiful sunset and I was graduating from high-school, so you could say life was extremely good. Also wondering what some of them Australians have been drinking because there are some true gems coming from the land down under which I can't clarify just yet.

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

I'm pretty content with the stuff that I have. Clothes are always welcome but, other than, that I am satisfied with what I own and I'm hoping that it will stay like this. Just hope people are going to like the record in 2019 and maybe, if I had to make one wish, then I would wish for a job that still enables me to make loads of music. 

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

I think would like to play support for Nick Mulvey, mostly because of what kind of audience he attracts to his concerts. But, other than that, I don't have a strong desire to play support for someone because in music you never know how things are going to be. Being surprised is what kind of makes it exciting.

The rider kind of depends of the tour I would be doing but good care and comfort is actually all I need; maybe a bottle of whiskey which is already on my rider.

What advice would you give to new artists coming through?

There's loads of cheesy stuff to say to people who are just starting out which are true. I'm actually packed with stuff I want to mention but let's try keeping it easy and understandable. Always remember to have fun, don't expect too much and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Results shouldn't be the reason you make music. Of course there are times where you have to take protection in order to do what you love. But, still I think tons of people forget that it's mostly about the music that you make and if you do that properly the rest eventually will revolve around that.  By the way: I'm not talking as if I already made it, but still...

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

There are a few dates in Germany and a co-headline show with Matt Perriment which I really look forward to. Also been busy with another tour which I can't tell you about just yet but it's coming and maybe it's about time that I actually set foot on British grounds for a change.

25th January - Paard, The Hague

26th February – Auster-Club, Berlin

28th March - FZW, Dortmund 

5th April - Tivoli, Utrecht (with Matt Perriment) 

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 IN THIS PHOTO: Seoul

Are there any new artists you recommend we check out?

Don't know if I'm cool enough to recommend songs that 'nobody' knows but there's this band from Canada I think who are called Seoul and they make this melancholic, ambient Pop music. For me, a sweet find and definitely worth checking out.

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

Of course I have to make sure that I don't lose my mind when making a lot of music, so I unwind just by hanging out with friends and get a beer. I have also been dancing for fourteen years now and I still enjoy doing that; keeping body and my soul in shape. Now and then I stroll through my hometown, just to clear my mind.

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

Nick Mulvey – In Your Hands

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