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What happens when you take emerging artists from the most isolated city in the world and pair them with local composers and a string quartet to reimagine their songs in the height of a global pandemic? Enter Perth’s latest innovative experience, Tender is the Night. Birthed by local multi-disciplinary artist and stalwart of the Perth music industry, Leigh Gardiner, in collaboration with creative consultant and composer, Rebecca Erin Smith, Tender is the Night is a series of performances that bridge and blur the lines of classical and contemporary music.

Gardiner had been brewing over the idea of synchronising support for his composer and musician friends for some time, but it wasn’t until the initial COVID lockdowns of 2020 hit that it was finally put into motion. In September 2020, the inaugural Tender is the Night event took place in a suburban backyard to a private audience of friends and family in a relaxed picnic setting. One year on, with the support of the City of Melville and a generous grant from the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries under its belt, the event is thrilled to announce the imminent arrival of its first ever public edition with Tender is the Night volume five on Sunday 12 September. We were lucky enough to have a chat with both of the acts which will be performing at the event: headliners, Simone & Girlfunkle and support act, Tanaya Harper.

Hi Tanaya and Simone & Girlfunkle, hope you’re having a nice week! First up, let’s get to know you. Can you give us a little introduction into who you are and the type of music you each create?

Simone & Girlfunkle: Hi! We’re close friends of many years who share a love for singing in close harmony. We were once described as “Picnic At Hanging Rockcore” and yep, that sums us up.

Tanaya Harper: Hello! Well, I’m a Western Australian singer who loves hiking, and I’m also studying Nursing so I feel like I’m living a double life of creative brain versus policies and procedures brain. It’s hard to summarise, I guess the type of music I create is rather solemn, and usually has a lyrical focus on the experience of anxiety. It’s always been about internal struggles rather than the outside world and politics, but I have felt a recent shift where I’m writing more about the greater human experience rather than my own mental health journey. 

You’re both set to perform at the upcoming Perth event Tender is the Night, can you tell us a bit about how Tender is the Night began and what it’s all about?

S&G: Oh we are not qualified to answer this one! But what I can tell you is that it’s Leigh’s passion project. He has created some absolute magic. The string arrangements compliment the contemporary songs and add so many feelings. We went to the first one to see Tanaya and I was genuinely moved to tears by how beautiful the music and experience was.

TH: Well, Tender is the Night is the brain-child of local musician Leigh Gardiner. He would be best to answer this question, but from my understanding for a few years he had the grand idea of having a string quartet playing original arrangements written by a variety of local composers 

What can audience members expect when they attend Tender is the Night on Sunday 12 September at the Melville Main Hall? Tanaya, we understand you’ve performed at a previous event before?

S&G: They can expect something unlike the normal gig experience. The beauty of the strings lick your earholes whilst you feast on picnics. I can’t recommend it enough.

TH: Tender is the Night is the most beautiful gig I’ve ever played, hands down. It was such an honour to have a professional string quartet playing professional arrangements over my music, and I get to do it again! The first Tender was performed in Leigh’s backyard so it wasn’t heavily advertised which meant some friends and fans who would have wanted to come but missed out. The only thing that could possibly be better than the last gig is the fact that I get to sing in Melville Town Hall!! I sense another career highlight coming.

Can you tell us a bit more about the collaborations between yourselves and the composers & string quartet? How do you each approach reimagining your songs with these classical artists? What does that process look like?

S&G: For us, choosing the right songs to be arranged was quite difficult. We’ve been playing together for so long, we have so many songs we’d love to hear arranged for string ensemble. But I think we chose the right bunch! We had to omit some of our poppier favourites and pick some we thought might lend themselves to strings a little better. As far as collaborations between the arrangers and ourselves – we did a dodgy demo of the stripped-back songs and then left it to the pros! On the day as they play will be the first time we’ll hear these interpretations of the music. It’s a little nerve racking but also we’re pretty honoured, and of course excited to hear what the arrangers come up with.

TH: Pretty much what S&G said. I sent some very basic voice memo’s to Leigh who then forwarded them onto the composers. They did an incredible job with their arrangements. There are no rehearsals with the quartet, we purely test the intro’s and outro’s at soundcheck and then bam, we play the full set to the audience. It’s very serendipitous. I intentionally chose what I felt would be the most suitable songs (solo) – the only full band song is Don’t Go Outside, and I’ll also be performing an additional arrangement for my new single ’Montreal’. 

What are you most looking forward to about performing at Tender is the Night?

S&G: Hearing Tanaya’s set again! Performing in the centre of all that string sound loveliness. Also cheese picnics!

TH: Hearing Simone and Girlfunkle! And experiences what it sounds and feels like to perform in a Hall. I think my heart will melt.

What’s next for each of you? Any upcoming releases, other live performances or collaborations on the horizon?

S&G: We move like summertime slugs, so we’re taking our time working through a mountain of new material, trying to shape it into something beautiful and record-shaped. A few of our crew have recently become parents, so we’ve put no upcoming deadlines or pressures on ourselves at this moment in time. Everything will fall into place when it’s destined to, as it always does and we have something to share very soon.

TH: I have a new single (and EP) coming out very soon called ‘Montreal’. I’m very excited to release this one, it’s very close to my heart. It will be accompanied by a video clip filmed by Annie Harvey and Yardley Smeaton. The EP Launch will be on October 2 at Lyric’s Underground, with supports from Grace Sanders and Julia Wallace. 

I’m also going on a road trip to perform in the Great Southern; Ravensthorpe on September 17 and Esperance on 19th. I’m currently working on my debut album, so I might write some songs while I’m down there.

And finally, where can we keep up to date with your work? Give yourselves a plug!

S&G: Here are our links @simoneandgirlfunkle or Facebook

Or our music sits on Spotify, Apple Music or Bandcamp

TH: Instagram, Facebook, Bandcamp, Linktree, Spotify

Tender is the Night – Simone & Girlfunkle

Sunday 12 September 2021 

City of Melville Main Hall

10 Almondbury Rd, Booragoon, WA 6154

Support: Tanaya Harper

Tickets: $30 + BF via Trybooking

BYO food, drinks as well as rugs and cushions to sit on

Doors at 5:30pm

How did you first become involved with music?

I’ve been playing music for as long as I remember. I grew up with an upright piano in my house and was writing songs on there before I started walking. Throughout high school I played trumpet in my school’s various ensembles like concert band, jazz band, orchestra, pep band and I also played guitar and trumpet played in a ska/funk/rock/jam band (we had an identity crisis) outside of school with some friends. I initially went to the University of Minnesota to study classical trumpet and music education, but realized very quickly that path wasn’t for me. I started performing around campus as a singer/songwriter and transferred to a contemporary music industry school studying music business and songwriting. I got in and out in 3 semesters and realized very quickly that everything I was taught in school about the music industry was outdated and irrelevant (this was around 2005).

I was taught in school that the only way to be a successful musician was to get signed to a record deal. They never taught me how to get a deal, just that I needed one if I wanted to succeed. So I had two options: 1) sit around and wait for this record deal to magically appear in my lap or 2) start to figure out how to make a music career happen on my own. I chose the latter.

What’s been happening with recently with the New Music Business podcast?

I just had Imogen Heap on discussing how she envisions making the future of music metadata, credits and payment more transparent and equitable for musicians through blockchain technology. That was really interesting conversation. Also, recently I chatted with Ritt Momney who found success from his song going viral on TikTok. And I had the pop-punk, Australian band Stand Atlantic on the show who offered great perspective on how they build their fanbase live – in an internet driven industry. Very recently I had the pleasure of chatting with Nigerian Afrobeat guitarist Fiokee who gave me some insight into how the Nigerian music scene operates. And one of my favorite interviews most recently was with Cory Wong of Vulfpeck who discussed session musician and band leading etiquette. You can check out all the episodes here. 

How has the changing landscape encouraged emerging musicians? 

It is the best time in the history of the music industry to be a musician. Never before in the history of the business could a musician create a sustainable, life-long career without the help of a record label. Artists these days can choose to maintain 100% of their ownership and have wildly successful careers. But we’re also seeing a wider “middle class musician” class emerge. That’s the most exciting part to me. It’s no longer either you’re a superstar or a starving artist. There are literally thousands of artists who are making music careers happen in their own way. There’s nothing wrong making a healthy living doing what you love – even if you’re not famous. That’s not what a music career is about anymore.

Please tell us about you involvement with Fender Artist Playbook:

Fender and I have similar missions: to empower musicians with the tools to succeed. Fender approached me to write the Playbook because we align on our values and mission. It’s a natural partnership and I’m happy I’ve been able to work with them to get this super helpful resource out into the world and into the hands of musicians.

How does the Fender Artist Playbook help musicians navigate the changing landscape?

There is no longer one way to make a music career happen, there are literally as many ways to make a music career happen as there are musicians.

In the Playbook I outline a few of the ways musicians can make a music career work these days. This Playbook is a great starting point for any musician at any stage of their career to understand some of the avenues they can pursue to find success in 2021.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Bill Withers. Always.

What do you like to do away from music?

In the winter I like to ski. I really enjoy acting. And I can also make a mean Frittata.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2021?

I just wrapped up an immersive 1970s funk/soul concert theatrical experience Brassroots District. We performed 16 shows in Downtown LA (outside). I’m just about to start writing the 3rd edition of How To Make It in the New Music Business which is slated to come out Fall 2022!

Favourite food and place to Hangout?

Favorite food = Canters Pastrami Reuban. Favorite place to hangout = Hotel Cafe in Hollywood.

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Where are you currently based and what are you up to?

I just wrapped up shooting a Rom-Com movie called My Fake Boyfriend in Toronto yesterday, so I’m headed back to LA and into my full time music headspace. It’s harder to focus on it all when I’m on set for 14hr days, so i use the late nights and weekend where I can – thankfully I was able to find a dope studio and engineer here in TO to record my next release.

How did you first start playing music?

It started with dance really. As a kid I would edit my music for certain stage performances, i loved mixing songs together by splicing from multiple cassette tapes. Eventually, I learned computer programs to get finer cuts & more dynamics, and then in high school at about age 14 I started constructing original songs on my laptop & recording vocals. Once I started getting into actual recording studios at about 16yrs old it was all over for me – I knew I’d be hooked for life.

Your new single Rhythm & Music is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

Definitely an MJ influence within the music and writing. I wanted something I could really break out and dance to, not just bop around but like really give every bit of feeling to. In terms of writing, I felt like I had too much love & music in my heart, and I always felt like the people I dated were wanting me to contain it for them… this was my rebellion, and invitation.

How did you go about writing the single?

Same way as most of the tracks on the album, my producer / roommate at the time Louis Futon just recorded at the house, it probably started with me venting about relationship patterns and desires… Usually he’d pick up an instrument, play around on it, and then I’d start singing a melody and lyrics inspired by the sound and the conversation… or vis-versa.

Where and when did you record/produce/master?

Recorded mostly in my house in Los Angeles, and also at Steakhouse Studios in North Hollywood. Masters were done also in LA with Michael Freeman.

What influenced the music video?

Our main influence vibes were Michael Jackson, Dirty Dancing, Kanye’s “Fade” video with Teyana Taylor, Flashdance etc. And the location was chosen because of my dance competition background, I was always in a hall like that most weekends growing up… in fact it’s likely that I’ve performed in that same hall before at some point ha, I really wanted to call back to my dance roots.. this song was the perfect choice for that.

Where and when did you film and who with?

We shot back in June 2020 at Balmain Town Hall. The entire crew had a history of dance as well, we had worked together many years earlier before I moved overseas.. so the whole project felt like this beautiful reunion. Cat Santos choreographed, Rowena Rasmussen directed along with husband Joel Rasmussen who was DP, Jason Lewis produced, & Dylan Mahoney was first AD as well as assistant creative director. Adam Saunders played my love interest, we’ve also known each other for many years through dance music and film in Sydney.

What did you most enjoy about creating the music video?

It was a family affair with my Aussie dance community. Getting to create back home again in Sydney with best friends and peers who’ve known me for over 10 years.. during a pandemic at that, was really a dream come true & massive blessing. I loved getting back to my roots as a dancer & pushing hard, there’s nothing quite like it and I never wanna forget that part of me again.

What do you like to do away from music?

Oooh.. I like to game from time to time. I’ve started getting into martial arts this year which I really enjoy. And I chill with my friends, I’ll kick it at a rave party every now and then, or go to a music festival. But to be honest, music always finds it’s way into every thing.. and I love it.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Past couple weeks it’s been Joyner Lucas, Obongjayar, Peter Collins, and James Fauntleroy. I’m about to get into Kanye’s Donda.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2021 going into 22?

Is alllll about the rhythm & music baby ️‍ we got 3 other music videos to share & I have more to shoot, got a big live show I’ll start rehearsing for pretty soon & am currently planning out the creative for, and I’m also back in the studio writing new magic and finishing what we’ve worked on this year. It’s a dream year.

What’s your favourite food and place to hang out in your down time?

 I love me some chocolate and I love hangin at home – I do so much travelling so at this stage my home feels like the vacation. Either solo or having friends over, it’s peaceful.

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Indie singer songwriter Neeko returns with her first single of the year, ‘How Deep?’ – the stirring title track of her anticipated debut EP. Weaving folk-laden pop melodies that gently buoy listeners into a state of utter serenity, Neeko sees music-making as a deeply cathartic practice. Her debut single ‘Deep Sea Diver’ was released independently last year, captivating audiences with its siren harmonies and spacious production that uplift Neeko’s impressionable voice as one to be celebrated. Now, the rising artist is thrilled to share the track’s sister release, ‘How Deep?’ and announce the exciting news of her forthcoming EP of the same name, just around the corner.

No stranger to the Melbourne music scene, Neeko has played countless shows around the country, sharing stages with the likes of Danika Smith, Allysha Joy, T Honey (aka Maple Glider) and even the Grammy Nominee Eric Roberson. Outside of her solo project, Neeko has performed backing vocals and contributed to an array of local outfits, including most notably playing drums in Melbourne psych rock outfit, Tomgirl. The band have been billed on prominent lineups such as Strawberry Fields and have supported industry heavyweights, Mildlife and GODTET among others. We had a chat with Neeko to delve into the inspirations behind her new single, dream collaborations, her various improvisation pursuits and what she’s got coming up on the horizon.

Hi Neeko, congratulations on the release of your new single ‘How Deep?’. Can you tell us a bit what this song means to you?
This song is a very personal love song and reflects a very specific time for me in a break up journey. It was a moment of feeling overwhelming love and joy.

How did the song come about and who did you record it with?
This song came pouring out one night as the feelings of such intense love were too overwhelming not to be expressed! Literally could not contain it in my body, hence the song was born. I recorded this song with my dear friend Jonathan Collins in his bedroom studio.

Have you always made music? When did you start?
I have definitely always loved music. I was always singing when I was a kid and was always forming little bands with friends. It wasn’t until I was 19 that I started playing guitar and that’s when I really began writing songs.

How would you describe your sound?
I have explored many different sounds in my song writing journey, but at the moment the songs that have been coming through are more intimate folk-like songs that tell a story. The aesthetic of my recorded music is very centred around the backing vocal arrangements which is my favourite part of the recording process! I absolutely love creating vocal arrangements. 

You started the improv women’s showcase BLUME (Boss Ladies Under Musical Elevation) in Melbourne back in 2017 and another jam night in Alice Springs in 2018. What do improvisation and jam sessions mean to you, and how important is collaboration?
I love this question! I feel very strongly about improvised music because I feel it is how I have learnt how to play. I remember in the beginning of my musical journey going to friends’ parties where there was jamming going on and I longed to be a part of the jams but found that I had SO many insecurities to break through to feel like I could. It took a long time before feeling comfortable with feeling uncomfortable basically. I then became super passionate about creating warm and nurturing musical environments for people to be able to break through their own fears as I did. I firmly believe that music is for EVERYONE and you don’t need to be a virtuoso to play. For me, collaboration is an essential part of how I grow musically. 

List a few of your top dream artists to collaborate with or perform with and why.

I would love to collaborate with Moses Sumney! His backing vocal arrangements inspire me so much. Would also LOVE to collaborate and perform with Jacob Collier! I feel we share a similar philosophy on music and he just seems like the biggest sweetheart!

You’ve only had one other release under your solo project Neeko, with your debut single ‘Deep Sea Diver’ last year. How does ‘How Deep?’ compare to this and what evolutions has your music taken on over time?

These songs are most definitely connected. How Deep? is the antidote song to Deep Sea Diver. I recorded Deep Sea Diver in my room last year which was a really beautiful intimate experience. I have very limited knowledge about recording so it is much more lo-fi than How Deep?. Recording with Jon definitely allowed me to create a bigger sound that I would not have been able to do on my own.

What’s next for you?

I have another single coming out in October before dropping the whole EP in November which I’m very excited about! I would love to be touring this music next year but I guess we will have to wait and see given the current state of the world. Fingers crossed for us all!

Finally, where can we stay up to date with future Neeko releases? Plug yourself!

You can find me on instagram as @neekomusic which is where I post all of my upcoming things. If you would like to check out my music head on over to Spotify or if you want to purchase my music go to neekomusic.bandcamp.com and buy a song for only $1.50!

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