4
“Heart Like a Sunset” feels emotional but still really upbeat musically — did the sound come first or were the lyrics and story already there before the track started taking shape?
‘The need for expression was there, and sometimes those really raw emotional feelings can lead to a song almost writing itself. That was the case here, lyrics and chords came together for this tune and it’s pop sensibility was in my head before bringing it to the band. I’m so lucky to have the right team to help me bring it into the world!’ – Joe
The song talks about acceptance and empathy after a breakup, which is a pretty mature way to look at heartbreak — was that message something that came from personal experience?
‘In my experience breakups are difficult, no matter which side of the coin you happen to be on. It’s important to try and be honest, as well as kind and sensitive. I hope this song can provide catharsis or comfort for anyone experiencing similar.’ – Joe
There’s a real mix of sounds in this track, from indie rock to more pop and synth elements — do you consciously try to blend styles, or does that just happen naturally when you’re writing together?
‘I love Talking Heads as much as I love Pantera, Justin Bieber, Paramore, Nine Inch Nails, Tori Amos or Aphex Twin. I think a lot of artists feel that way these days with so much recorded music in history available to us. And what a blessing, to be able to express oneself with all of these palettes and frequencies to draw inspiration from. Death to genre!’ – Joe
You’ve worked again with Dave Parkin on this release — what does he bring to your sound that keeps you coming back to work with him?
‘Dave has always understood our sound and knows what’s best for our tracks. His knowledge of the industry plays a part in this. We leave his studio with a fresh perspective of the tracks, always wanting to book that next session.’ – Ross
How would you say your songwriting has changed over the last couple of years compared to your earlier releases?
‘The process has become more collaborative, and I think everyone is now aiming closer to the direction of what we want to become. When writing songs, I’m always conscious of trying to make it quirky or interesting (at least to myself) and when the other guys enjoy something about it and bring more for us to work with, the song gets time to go through lots of trials and iterations. That’s when you get a final product that you can be proud of.’ – Joe
You’ve built a strong following both online and through live shows — do you feel like Figurehead is more of a live band or a studio band at heart?
‘I think every member would have their own take on this. I see figurehead as a live band at heart as that’s where it all started like most bands. Once you’ve locked in a set and earned money from those shows that’s when the studio sessions get booked. There’s definitely magic on both sides.’ – Ross
When you were writing “Heart Like a Sunset”, was there a particular moment where you realised the song was something special?
‘As soon as I found that chorus groove I was sure that the rest of the song had its place, almost like the final piece required to see the whole puzzle.’ – Joe
Fremantle has such a strong music scene — how much has being based there influenced the band and your sound?
‘Half of us are from Fremantle and some are from further north of the river, so we span a fairly large scope of venues and local bands which is a great position to have! But Freo venues like Mojo’s and Clancy’s and more recently Gage Roads with their “Live and Local” events have been imperative in growing our audience and establishing ourselves as a live act. We are supporting The Vanns at Gage Roads 12 June .’ – Joe
With new music coming out and more on the way, are you working towards a bigger project or just releasing songs as they come?
‘The current audience climate is calling for more singles at this stage, but an EP is definitely on the agenda in the near future!
We have another single scheduled for release in June and are currently in the studio recording new material ‘ – Joe
Looking ahead, what do you want people to feel when they listen to Figurehead for the first time?
‘I want any new listeners to hear themselves in our music. A lyric or styling that rings true to who they are, that compels them in a really personal way.’ – Joe
‘If first listeners felt excitement and a curiosity for the band that would make me happy. When I hear a new band and I get those feelings that’s when I know I’m hooked. ‘ – Ross
FIGUREHEAD: Official Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed
