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Where are you currently based?
Meanjin (Brisbane, Australia). What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?
As with most promoters/labels in the Brisbane scene, things have been pretty quiet. We’ve used this down time to finalise our recently released vinyl release (the label’s first) and lock in some other digital releases. Other than that, we’ve played a few sets on The Quivr – A Brisbane based DJ streaming platform that so happened to pop up just before lockdown began. Please tell us about Pocketmoth and your co-founder; how did you wind up starting a label together?
Zach and I have played in a band together for about six years, and always had a mutual interest in Electronic music. As time progressed, we started making mixes, digging for music, and attending raves etc. Having been involved with a record label via our band, we understood the basics of how to run one, and figured we could do something similar. What core values do you have as a label?
– Our label abides by the core values of dance music; Inclusivity, diversity, safety, free creativity and expression. What qualities must an artist and track possess to be on Pocketmoth?
– we are captivated by sounds that move us. Our discography contains many articulations of this, from tight minimal pieces, do huge luscious soundscapes. In short, we chase unique sounds from unique artists that share our philosophy; attention to detail, a clear conceptual framework, and passion for music in all forms. Do you find it difficult to push such a unique sound in a city like Brisbane?
Not hugely. We have such a tight knit community, and many of the Bris-based artists that release with us are well respected by their peers. Naturally, this gives local releases an organic reach throughout the city, which is very special. Our scene is still growing, and I feel that Pocketmoth and Brisbane will move forward very quickly in tandem. Who knows where we will be in a few years.
Please tell us about some of your artists?
It’s almost an injustice to spotlight a few, as there are so many talented artists that feature in our discography. Perhaps then, I’ll mention the artists responsible for forthcoming Pocketmoth releases: – Gabriel Magdelani and Niran Mantin: Two very talented minimal producers from Tel Aviv, responsible for the recently released vinyl, Physical Desires [PKM009]. Though we’ve never met, we’ve developed a strong friendship with Gabriel, Niran and their network of producers, having featured a few on Pocketmoth releases.
– Olympic Swimming Pool Maintenance
A producer, visual artist and live electronic performer from Brisbane. He is due to release an ambient techno EP on the label digitally in the next few months, so stay tuned.
– DJ Borderforce
A close friend, collaborator and co-founder of local promoter ’No Persuasion’. We share a studio with him also. An extremely refined producer with an incredible work ethic. He’s always experimenting with new gear, new setups, and new ideas in his music. His forthcoming EP will be filled with big drums, luscious pads and uplifting chord progressions.
– Squidgenini
Possibly the most all-round talented artists we know. An Incredible vocalist, keys player and critical thinker, with a bunch of well-received original music already to her name. Squid has been recently diving into deeper styles of electronic music, and the results are super exciting. No dates locked in yet, but likely early next year. Some exciting news, word has it you are releasing your first vinyl this month, please tell us about the release: What inspired you to go for vinyl?
Pressing music to vinyl has been a goal of ours since we started the label in late 2017, however as a small label with not much reach, no contacts and an unrefined palette, it didn’t make sense at first. Things are different now – we have rubbed shoulders with amazing artists and label owners from Australia and abroad, grown within local and international communities, and maintain a better understanding of our goals. Having already released on the label, Gabriel suggested to us the idea of a collaborative release with his colleague Niran. As Gabriel is Arab Israeli, and Niran Jewish Israeli, the release aims to show the transcendent power of dance music, and share a message of unity. Of course, the music was also incredible: tightly produced, textural, groovy. We couldn’t have dreamed for a more perfect release to press as our first vinyl.
Physical Desires EP [PKM009], by Gabriel Magdelani and Niran Mantin, released on the 25th Sept 2020, and is available physically via Bandcamp Juno, Decks, Deejay and a number of record stores. It’s also available digitally via band camp, Soundcloud and primary streaming services.
Does Pocketmoth ever do label nights?
Super Whatnot w/ Madeline Holt: A monthly night of all-vinyl selections by Myself (Black Mannequin), and Zach (Quincy Raw), accompanied by digital art projections by our good friend, Madeline Holt. Cerulean Showroom: This was our bimonthly club night, featuring immersive deep blue visuals, quadraphonic sound and strictly local selectors playing prime-time sets. It showcased the talent that Brisbane has to offer, by providing local DJs with an international level setup and vibe. It sadly came to an end due to certain constraints, and given the COVID situation, we haven’t been able to book anything much since. We’ll be back though, offering the same production level with a fresh concept.
Who are you listening to at the moment?
Off The Meds K-Lone
Satoshi Tomiie
Al Wootton
Local:
Squidgenini
Big Dead
Waqef What do you like to do away from music?
Play football, ride bikes, read. What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?
We aim to piece out two more releases before the new year, and then another couple in early 2021. From there, maybe another vinyl? It’s hard to know given the current circumstances!! Favourite food and place to hangout?
Fave food: Almond Croissant (paired with long black).
Fave hang out spot: Super Whatnot – Burnett Lane, Brisbane City. Amazing mixologists, tasty nibbles. Music policy: strictly vinyl. Small bar, big vibes. |
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Stay connected with Max Leone:
Twitter | Instagram | Youtube | Soundcloud
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Stay connected with Sunset Rollercoaster:
Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | Website
Where are you currently based?
How did you first start playing music?
What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?
Your new single ‘Playboy Type’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?
How did you go about writing Playboy Type?
Where and when did you record/produce and who with?
What programs/instruments did you use?
How did the concept for the music video come about?
Where and when did you film and who did you work with?
What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of the video?
Who are you listening to at the moment?
What do you like to do away from music?
What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?
Favourite food and place to hangout?
Toronto’s pre-eminent road warriors, Mad Ones, have been a city staple for ages – forging loyal fans and followers through-out the town (and the country). Fronted by the enigmatic Andrew Devillers, the new music is gripping and wholly fantastical to behold.
“It’s 3099. Love reigns supreme and all beings live in interplanetary harmony. Yet for some strange reason the universal population is digging on a tune with sloppy slide guitar, a funky beat and a refrain acknowledging that when we abandon our neighbour in their time of need we abandon our own need for existence.”
https://www.youtube.com/user/madonesband
https://www.facebook.com/MadOnesBand
https://twitter.com/madonesband
Ben Harper has revealed the final preview of his new album Winter Is For Lovers before its October 23 release (ANTI-Records). The album is Harper’s first-ever entirely instrumental project, and in many ways his entire musical life has culminated in this moment: a 15-song solo recording of original compositions imagined as a symphony on his lap steel guitar.
Watch/listen to “Paris” HERE
The songs on Winter Is For Lovers are named after the geographic locations that, over the years, helped to inspire the record, with the closing track “Paris” capturing the solitude of a wistful afternoon with the soft, meditative slide of Harper’s lap steel guitar.
Says Harper: “I’ve done a lot of writing in Paris over the years, and it’s my attempt at a musical description of experiencing a walk through a park in Paris.”
Harper has pushed musical boundaries since his 1994 debut and his lap steel guitar has played a tremendous role in his distinct sound throughout his career. But he’s never made an album that so purely distills his reverence for the instrument, and his mastery of it. Winter Is For Lovers is filled with the music Harper heard growing up, listening to the blues, Hawaiian and classical guitar masters in his mother’s record collection. He gravitated early on to the distinct wail of the slide guitar, learning finger picking from the great Taj Mahal and later studying with Chris Darrow of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band – a lap steel virtuoso who had a major influence on Harper’s lifelong embrace of the instrument.
Previously released singles include “London,” and “Inland Empire,” which was covered by Rolling Stone, SPIN, Paste and others.
This week Harper also appeared on WNYC’s Soundcheck program in the US to perform three selections from the forthcoming album and discuss its origins. In September Harper appeared with Ziggy Marley on The Today Show in the US and The Late Late Show with James Corden to perform “Play With Sky.”
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Brisbane indie pop rock outfit The Jensens are charged up and today dropped their brand new single Paper Walls, a fiery track about pulling yourself up out of a self-doubt spiral. Paper Walls is accompanied by a colourful, wild video clip, created in collaboration with visual artist Unclechronicbone. The single precedes The Jensens’ highly anticipated new album Hammer and Blush, scheduled for release on May 21, 2021. Set to launch Paper Walls in style with a short run of COVID-safe shows in Queensland, the band will kick off at Solbar on November 6, moving through Mo’s Desert Clubhouse on December 4 and finishing up with the official single launch at Black Bear Lodge on December 11.
Paper Walls is an explosion of energy, hooking the listener in from the opening synth line to the final descent of the bass. Evocative of The Strokes, Bloc Party and even Tame Impala, Paper Walls is a certified dancefloor-filler – it’s impossible not to picture dancing to this track in a crowded, sweaty pub. Playful toy piano punctuates the steady, thumping beat, while Joe White’s vocals tear through amongst the poppy chaos. Speaking on the inspiration behind the track, Joe says, “Paper walls are resolutions without any weight – like sand castle promises to yourself, washed away by the weekend. Unending internal conversations about doing more, being more, and seeing more, when you realise you’ve once again chosen bad habits over hard work. And who could blame you? But there’s still a desire for self improvement that doesn’t go away, so you turn your back on your former self, again and again. It’s not about being hard on yourself, it’s about having faith in a vision of a better version of you.”
The video for Paper Walls is a colourful, almost psychedelic romp through the life of the band; lofi and irresistible, the clip is cleverly shot in split screen, each side its own dose of frivolity showcasing The Jensens’ wholesome friendship and sense of fun. Filmed, edited and directed by James Hornsby, the clip feels like reaching the other side of a depressive episode – where everything feels colourful and fascinating again.
Paper Walls has been released ahead of The Jensens upcoming album Hammer and Blush, a stunning collection of brilliant, eclectic music from one of Australia’s most underrated bands. From the electronic dance vibes of album opener Unobtainium, to the soft groove of ZIBA, to the dreamy, graceful closer The Elegant Ones, this collection of songs is highly curated, deeply considered, and truly brilliant to behold. Reflecting on the process of making the album, Joe explains, “I feel like we’ve covered a lot of bases on this album, both sonically and thematically. It’s taken the least time from song inception to completion too, which doesn’t mean we haven’t laboured over every track, but there’s a certain element of spontaneity. We always set out to do our best and cover new ground and I think we can truly say we’ve done that with Hammer and Blush. It’s equal parts fear of and optimism for the future, regret and pride for the past and an observation of what is.”
The Jensens are no strangers to the stage, having supported the likes of Last Dinosaurs, The Vaccines, Kingswood, Bleeding Knees Club and more, and played at iconic festivals Splendour In The Grass, Grampians Music Festival and more. Fans should get in quick to snap up tickets to these extremely exclusive shows as The Jensens live experience is not to be missed.
Paper Walls is available now.
Hammer and Blush is set for release May 21, 2021.
The Jensens is Bodi Lowrie – Spaceship, Joe White – Vocals/Guitar, Jordan Aston – Bass, Phillip Fabros – Drums & Nathan Kendall – Vocals/Guitar. https://www.
Stream: PAPER WALLS
View: PAPER WALLS
Smart link: PAPER WALLS
Hammer and Blush
OFFICIAL TRACKLIST
1. Unobtanium
2. River of Gold
3. Bert & Ernie
4. Ziba
5. Paper Walls
6. Disappear From The World Forever
7. Breaking Up Is Hard To Do (But I’ll Do It With You)
8. The Elegant Ones
9. Internally, Eternally
10. Deus
11. Automatic
12. Mobile Radio
13. One Good Picture Of The Sun
14. Truth Hurts Most
15. Data Miracle
THE JENSENS PAPER WALLS TOUR
FRI 6 NOV | SOLBAR | SUNSHINE COAST, QLD
Tickets available from www.oztix.com.au
FRI 4 DEC | MO’S DESERT CLUBHOUSE, BURLEIGH HEADS, QLD
Tickets available from www.mosdesertclubhouse.
FRI 11 DEC | OFFICIAL SINGLE LAUNCH – BLACK BEAR LODGE, BRISBANE, QLD
Tickets available from www.eventbrite.com.au
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Melbourne-based Pop/Soul/RnB artist Via is just starting to make her mark on the Melbourne music scene. Her musical roots lie in heartbreakingly beautiful ballads. Since then however, after releasing her debut single “Breathe Again (ft Hui)” in 2018, her music started to delve into a world of RnB/Neo-Soul, in combination with those ballads undertones. This unique blend of genres has created a feel that is refreshingly different, yet beautifully familiar. As they say, she “wears her heart on her sleeve”, Via‘s music tells stories of her most intimate and fragile moments.
‘Need from you’ explores the inner monologue of someone who realizes that the relationship they are in will never fulfil them the way they want it to. A song that will make your heart ache, Via‘s songwriting strength is one that allows her listeners to deeply relate to her emotive and touching style. This acoustic soul track will be sure to have you “in your feels” and hitting the replay button.
‘Need from you’ will be available on all streaming platforms on the 16th of October. This hot new track is not one to miss.
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Los Angeles post hardcore band Touché Amoré share their new song and video for “Reminders” off their forthcoming Ross Robinson (Slipknot, Korn, At the Drive-In) produced album, Lament due out this Friday, October 9.
The track was born out of the overwhelming anxiety that came from the controversial end result of Trump’s impeachment trial. The verses scream of political distress while the chorus is a peak at vocalist Jeremy Bolm’s attempt to calm himself down. “I think when we are all panicking, we need to have those reminders that there’s love out there for us whether we believe it or not and that’s all that we can really trust to save us,” explains Bolm.
The video poses the question “What serves as a reminder for love in your life?” and not only features Touché Amoré but Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World, Andy Hull of Manchester Orchestra, Jacob Bannon of Converge, Frank Iero, Anthony Green, Skrillex, and many more with their super cute pets. “The music video for ‘Reminders’ conceptually was driven by bringing some joy to everyone’s timelines,” says Bolm. “If we can provide even just three minutes of joy to someone right now that’s enough for us, and who doesn’t love seeing awesome people and their pets? Putting this video together was such a pleasure because it involved talking to friends we love and getting wholesome footage in return. The people involved include artists we admire and contributors to the album. We hope you love it as much as we do.”
CHECK OUT THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR “REMINDERS”
In celebration of the release of Lament this week, the band has announced a livestream performance taking place October 13 at 12pm AEDT via Twitch. In addition to the live performance, the event will feature a Q&A with the band, and a DJ set from Jeremy Bolm.
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Hello Forever – Whatever It Is + Bonus Tracks out now via Rough Trade / Remote Control Records
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https://www.facebook.com/justinstewartcottamusic/
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