June 2020

Where are you currently based?

Australia, Melbourne

How did you first start playing music?

Mum said I would not shut up singing around the house.

Your new EP Normality will be released in September, what has influenced the sound and songwriting?

Busking on the streets. I didn’t want to take all my gear out, so I just decided to use my voice for everything instead, this project was created in Bourke St, Melbourne. I wanted to share the message that voices are powerful when they come together. And in these difficult times, I feel that our collective voices will be what sees us through. I named the EP Normality because it’s everything opposite to normal and I was also questioning my life a lot at the time such as:

What is a normal life?

Why are certain things normalised and other things aren’t?

What’s the normal way of going through depression or how do I act normal, what does that look like to society?

How did you go about writing the music?

I wrote this EP in 3 days using just my voice. This process was based on trust. Trust in myself to express whatever needed to come out through my voice. The songs are exactly how I first wrote them, I never changed anything. By producing an EP created only by vocals, I wanted to challenge the pre-conceived notion of what makes ‘normal’ music. I tried to make my voice do all the parts instruments would.

Where and when did you record?

I recorded this EP with Jimmy Alexander (Death Youth Records, Awaken I am) in his Gisborne studio. He is honestly the greatest human I have ever met. I’ve never felt so comfortable with someone in a studio before. He knew what my voice was capable of, so he would always push me to get the best takes. So young but one of the kindest, talented professionals I have ever worked with. I can’t thank him enough for everything he did for me and understanding my weird ideas for this EP.

I actually wrote this back in January 2018 but I didn’t have the confidence or funds to complete/ release it. I was also in fear, I thought it would be too weird and different but that was the whole point of the EP; what is normal? I was in a bit of fear and I was having the worst year I’ve ever had with my mental health, so I waited. Then all the film clip ideas came to me and the City of Melbourne COVID 19 Grant got me over the line and gave me the encouragement I needed to finish, release and believe that my concept was good.

How did you approach the recording process?

Ha! Jimmy was a legend and a great listener. It’s pretty weird for someone to walk into a session and go, “okay so here’s the bass, I’m gonna sing it.” We broke down all the sections and started one bit at a time. Usually it was me beatboxing drums first and singing bass sounds, then I’d start layering the harmonies which would make up the chords like a guitar or piano followed by extra parts, lead vocals and harmonies. The hardest song was My Hymn; it’s got a triplet feel so the melody’s rhythm isn’t so easy to sing over it.

What programs did you use to record/produce?

We swapped programmes; bit of logic, bit of pro tools, bit of reaper. I use a Roland RC 505, Voice Live 3 and a SE electronics mic when I’m live but we used a whole bunch of other instruments in the studio.

What do you have planned for the Normality EP?

4 film clips supported by the City of Melbourne COVID 19 Arts Grant, Behind the Scenes and a live Isolation gig online July 25th, maybe some mini 20 ppl gigs depending on Covid.

June 29th Vocal introduction + film clip

July 14th My Hymn single + film clip

Interlude

August 5th Normality single + film clip

Full EP will be available online with a bonus track in September.

‘Normality’ is the lead single coming out in August along with a film clip, how did the concept for that video happen?

I put a post out to my followers on Instagram and said, “Hey if you want to be in a film clip, rock up at this cafe called Onyx at this time in the most unusual outfit you can but still be yourself!” I was so anxious no one was going to come. I left it up to the universe. All my friends slowly kept bailing, so I literally had no idea who was coming. Then BAM all these amazing people who have been following my music arrived to hang out and be part of an amazing night. I was so grateful I just wanted to include everyone as an open invite, make it community based. We had kids, adults, teenagers and even twins from all walks of life come. Basically, the music video starts with me bored in a normal cafe job and then I jump over the counter into the ideal world which is much more fun, much different and what we considered normal. I can’t wait for this one to come out!

What was the most challenging part?

I wanted to pour milk all over myself because one of my lyrics is “Off milk you drunk it twice”, that was my first idea, a dream became a reality that day! We only had one chance to get it right, so I didn’t have room for error and the milk was HEAVY to hold!

Your new music video ‘Writing Machine’ is out now, how did the concept for the video come about?

I wanted the clip to emulate how humanity is becoming so addicted to technology. It is so hard to get someone’s attention in real life and it is crazy how much we judge someone we don’t know or believe whatever’s written on a screen. We forget there is a living human being with feelings and a beating heart on the other side of what we are looking at.

Where did you film and who with?

I worked with Good Gravy Media (Dylan and Liam) for all the Normality EP film clips, locations included in Coburg, Brunswick, Melbourne and Cheltenham.

I had Tim Knowles, Ellen Burbidge, Yash Fernando, Tayla Muir and Zandria play the characters in Writing Machine. They all come from an acting or singing background and they absolutely smashed it. Let’s not forget Clarissa Williams (Clarissa Williams Make Up) who did my make up for all clips, plus she was beautifully pregnant on set. Then Dimitri Cherkassski and Tara also jumped on board to help! They were the BEST crew and I was so honoured that they even wanted to work with me! Couldn’t have done it without them, I was very lucky!

What did you find most challenging and rewarding throughout the process?

The funniest part of filming Writing Machine was taking their technology away, I directed; “I want you to remember that feeling you get when you think you’ve either lost your phone or someone stole it and that manic chaos or anxiety that takes over.” They were SO good, I had to refrain myself from laughing because it was so real. Tay and Alex were attacking each other, Tim ripped the couch apart, Yash was tearing off his jacket and Ellen was throwing items around until they eventually had permission to turn on me! It was bloody amazing, if you ask me. I still start laugh thinking about it!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I listen to everything. Erykah Badu, one of my favs. Drake, Beyonce, Ariana Grande (love). From our Melbourne scene I love Mojo Juju (Mo’Ju), P Unique who are legend humans too, my girl Sully just bought out some music and G Flip, she and I played in a band together for years in high school. I am proud of her.

What do you like to do away from music?

A lot of music away from music haha like busking and studio time. I love 20 minute runs, exercise! I make my own clothes from recycled materials which you see me wearing at festivals and photoshoots. I love Op-shops. I am also a teacher, a food lover and I hang a lot with my 83 year old best friend who is my Grandmother.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020?

Normality for the rest of the year and I’ve written AN ALBUM for my band! I’m recording it with my best friend in the entire world Michael Cooper so I’ve already started planning that. It will be ready in 2021 and I’ve never been so excited. Brace yourself for it people!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I go to Onyx Cafe on Reserve Rd, Cheltenham A LOT to eat which is actually where the Normality film clip was filmed! Best food and service! But, Japanese cuisine is my favourite food with a glass of Pinot Noir! You will also find me at Shujinku eating Ramen in the city!

www.tanyageorgemusic.com.au

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?

I am based in a tiny apartment in Brunswick in Melbourne at the moment. The music scene is usually very lively, Sydney Road is the main hub for music in Brunswick which is very close to where I live. There are heaps of bars that are very supportive of local bands and artists and they are always looking for people to play. No matter if you’re a solo artist or in a full swing band- there will be a venue accommodating and an audience ready!!

How did you first start playing music?

I started when I was quite young, like 5 or 6, as my Dad bought me a guitar and took me to lessons and made me learn Bob Dylan songs! I always had a guitar around and would play covers to friends and write my own songs. It wasn’t until a couple of years ago where I actually performed in public on a stage though. I did my first open mic in 2018 in New York and I just kept on performing since then.

What’s been happening recently?

I have recently released my second single this month so that’s been exciting. Aside from that, I have just been using this down time to keep writing and to fill up a book of songs I am really proud of- as I plan to record a second EP soon. I have also been rehearsing with my band so that when life goes back to normal, we are stage ready!

Your new single ‘Walk My Way’ received instant Triple J airplay and was added to Unearthed playlists in the the first week of release, Kingsmill even giving you a rare five-star review – how have things been for you since?

I have been really humbled by the response to be honest. I guess when you’ve been sitting on a song for a while you forget how good it felt when you first wrote it. I wrote it in Feb or March last year. I do remember when I first wrote the chorus, I had butterflies in my stomach – so that must be your body saying ooo this is exciting haha.

Things have been really exciting since its release and the support from Triple J. I have had a lot of lovely people messaging me and emailing me saying they’ve heard the song on triple J and that they really like it which is awesome. It seems to make people feel happy and care free so I am glad it has that effect on people.

What influenced the sound and songwriting for this track?

To be honest, I am not entirely sure what influenced the sound. I just started playing this chord progression and then fiddling around with the fingerstyle pattern and it just sounded fun and upbeat. Then I started strumming and the chorus just came out of my mouth fully formed. At the time, I was reading a bit of poetry about social class in 1950s America and I think that influenced the storyline of the verses. I liked the idea of chasing someone that you feel is superior to you or unattainable, whether that be due to wealth, looks or gender. You feel like they don’t see you, but really they have felt just as strongly about you the whole time. I think it’s a nice idea!!

Where and when did you record?

I recorded the single with Benjamin McCarthy in his Carlton home studio. We recorded it in June/July last year. So, I had it tucked away for almost a year before it was eventually released!

You have a forthcoming EP on the way ‘Faith, Sex and Skin’ what can we expect?

Yes, it is coming out next month which is really exciting! The majority of the EP is quite uplifting and upbeat, there is one slower song which is quite stripped back. It has some really nice strings in it to accompany the guitar. All the other songs are built up with percussion and subtle synth around a raw acoustic sound. Each song has its own story and message in it.

What is the predominant theme of the EP?

I would say the EP is all about self-acceptance and kindness. It’s also about acknowledging we are not perfect but there are little acts of selflessness that we can do each day to live happier and healthier lives as a whole human race. I also think all the songs touch on the beauty of being vulnerable and that taking risks holds many rewards.

What influenced the EP?

My own life experiences have definitely influenced the songs on the EP. I also think my writing has been influenced by travelling and watching different cultures and the way that different people interact. Also, my writing has been influenced by books and movies that have resonated with me, such as The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind and Jack Kerouac novels. My sound has been influenced by contemporary artists such as Thelma Plum, Gordi and Vance Joy as well as iconic artists such as Bob Dylan and The Beatles and Neil Diamond.

What equipment did you use to record?

I used my old Ibanez guitar for all the recordings. It’s a bit beaten and worn but it still has a nice earthy tone.

What do you have planned for this EP?

I would love to do a little launch tour around Victoria and New South Wales, but we are just going to have to wait and see what the restrictions allow. There will at least be a launch show at The Old Bar with my full band after the release, but I will have to keep my fingers crossed that it will be sooner rather than later!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Oooo there so many great tracks coming out at the moment. I have been listening too Spacey Jane – they just put out a debut album which is really upbeat and fun. I have also been enjoying Ball Park Music – Day and Age and Noah Dillon – Mathew McConaughey. Lots of great new Aussie music!

What do you like to do away from music?

I use to be a very beachy person and spent most of my time surfing or ocean swimming. However, since moving to Melbourne, I have become a bit more of an indoor person – really enjoying just sitting at the library and reading or finding quirky little cafes and bars with my partner. Maybe I have just become lazier haha!

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020?

I am just going to be rehearsing a lot with my band to get our live show as tight as possible. I will be performing as much as I possibly can in this current climate! I will also be recording a few acoustic sessions with the Shoelace Creative team which I will post up on YouTube and socials. Then I will be recording my second EP in August and begin planning its release. So, I should be keeping quite busy!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Great question! I really love Black Cat on Brunswick Street in Fitzroy. It’s a really nice bar with a relaxing vibe and comfy couches. Favourite food, I’d have to go for Kway Teow from Asian Kitchen Guy on Sydney Road- very yummmm and very cheap.

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Where are you currently based?

I have been living in Montreal for the past 8 years. 

How did you first start playing music?

Basically, I was the singer in a band with some friends. I decided to start writing music to sing over and eventually I stopped singing and focused on producing. 

Your new single ‘Never Really Get There’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

There were no preconceived ideas, we just improvised in the studio one summer afternoon. We first started with the chords and then Jesse wrote some lyrics to it. There’s something both melancholic and festive in this song, we just captured that moment. 

How did you go about writing Never Really Get There?

You’d have to ask Jesse, I had nothing to do with the lyrics. On the other hand, I can say that for me “Never Really Get There” represents a feeling of inability to listen to oneself, sometimes life diverts us from our essence. 

The single Features Jesse Mac Cormack, how and why did Jesse come to be involved?

Jesse is a long time friend and collaborator. We like to make music together so it was natural for us to do this song together, nothing was planned. We’ve been collaborating for 4 years already on several different projects. 

How was it working with Jesse?

It’s very intuitive and natural when we work together; we don’t really need to talk to each other, the music speaks for itself. I think our sensibilities complement each other very well, we have a lot of fun doing that. 

The music video is directed by your sister Alex-Jeanna Dube, how was this experience?

It was the first time I collaborated with my sister on such an artistic project. It was really cool and easy. We’re only a year and a half apart in age, we’re like twins. We understand each other easily.

How did the concept for the music video come about?

For a long time, I had this idea of filming people through their windows dancing in their intimacy, in their world. I called my sister and she liked it right away, and she was able to tell a story using this concept. 

Where and when did you film and what did you find most rewarding and challenging during the creation of the video?

The music video was shot entirely in Montreal and in confinement. Everything was filmed in just under a week in April. This video is a tour de force, to have managed to shoot it while everything was playing against us due to the lockdown is the greatest achievement for me. I also think that the casting is very much in the image of our city, I like its diversity. The most difficult thing was to respect the health regulations during the filming. 

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I listen to a lot of Caribou, Amtrac and Khruangbin. 

What do you like to do away from music?

I love to garden and take care of my dogs. But what I like most of all is playing hockey! 

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020?

Lots of new music 😉 

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I really like any kind of food, I really like food hahah. I love spending time at Jarry Park, I think it’s the most beautiful park in Montreal!