The Chats

November 19, 2019

THE BUTTERFLY EFFECT JOINS ‘GOOD THINGS’ + NEW SINGLE ‘UNBROKEN’ – OUT...

November 19, 2019

EMC 2019 THE NEXT NOW BLOCKCHAIN, AI, THE SYDNEY SCENE, MENTORS AND...

November 19, 2019

Civiliana

November 19, 2019

Family Piknik to extend to two full days in 2020

November 19, 2019

California’s Allah-Las unveil Australian tour dates

November 19, 2019

CATALYST FOR BEYOND BLUE FRIDAY NOVEMBER 22ND

November 19, 2019

Holly Hyatt Premiere

November 19, 2019

HELMET – 30 YEARS – 30 SONGS – AUSTRALIAN TOUR 2020

November 19, 2019

Jayden Michael Dunne – Debut Single ‘Wandering’

November 16, 2019

Colin McCahon: Letters and Numbers opens at NGV

November 16, 2019

Julian Jordan delivers a hard-edged banger for STMPD RCRDS on ‘Next Level’

November 16, 2019

Rampage 2020 Announces full lineup with World Exclusive Pendulum Trinity Show, Noisia...

November 16, 2019

INDIA’S DUALIST INQUIRY RELEASES ‘LIFE FORMS’ EP A BEAUTIFULLY CONSTRUCTED, MEDITATIVE FOUR...

November 16, 2019

Renaissance Tulum

November 16, 2019

Green Velvet’s ‘Bigger Than Prince’ Remixed by Jamie Jones, Darius Syrossian, Alan...

November 16, 2019

Slow Life, the collective from Berlin, will all be together for the...

November 16, 2019

Italian house legend Junior Jack is backwith new single ‘Flash’ on new...

November 16, 2019

Introducing Imperials With Their Debut Release – Carolina

November 15, 2019

WHATS’ COMING UP AT YAH YAHS!

November 15, 2019

Tool returning to Australia & New Zealand in February 2020 | Tickets...

November 15, 2019

SCOTT & CHARLENE’S WEDDING Release new single ‘Back In The Corner’ Announce...

November 15, 2019

Papaya Tree

November 15, 2019

TRIPPIE REDD releases new song ‘DEATH (FEAT. DABABY)’ announces US and European...

November 15, 2019

MILK ON MILK Milk! Records covers compilation out today Xmas Party at...

November 15, 2019

MIAMI HORROR ANNOUNCE ‘LUV IS NOT ENOUGH’ AUSTRALIAN TOUR SUPPORTS

November 14, 2019

BASTILLE ANNOUNCE SPECIAL GUESTS MAX FROST, EVIE IRIE & JUPITER PROJECT ON...

November 14, 2019

Jack Trades & Kayrae express the struggles of a bad relationship with...

November 14, 2019

Five influences for Society of Beggars new single ‘God Mode’

November 14, 2019

Meredith Line Up!

November 14, 2019

HOUG REVEALS ACCOMPANYING PSYCHEDELIC VIDEO CLIP FOR SINGLE ‘ICBM’

November 14, 2019

Unwritten Law announce stacked shows for 2020 tour

November 14, 2019

Baba Beach Club to host Circoloco in 2020 – The Martinez Brothers...

November 13, 2019

STEREO TRAVELS THE WORLD DURING ITS 20th ANNIVERSARY

November 13, 2019

BLACK CAB announce ‘Altamont Diary’ reissue + Melbourne anniversary show Dec 5th

November 13, 2019

BONNIE x CLYDE Drop Urban Vocal Bass Single “Curse” In The Midst...

November 13, 2019

London Music Conference Announces First Round of Artists, Experts and Brands for...

November 13, 2019

Julia Jacklin to headline a stacked 2020 edition of the Grampians Music...

November 13, 2019

upsidedownhead joins forces with Parissa Tosif of Vallis Alps for the release...

November 13, 2019

Spiderbait – 9th November 2019 – The Forum Theatre, Melbourne

November 12, 2019

DOWN FOR TOMORROW UNVEIL EMPHATIC NEW SINGLE ‘SHOW ME THAT YOU CARE’

November 12, 2019

TRIPLE ONE SHARES VIDEO FOR ‘SO EASY’ FT. MATT CORBY & KWAME

November 12, 2019

ASIA POP FEST FRONTIER TOURING PARTNERS WITH ARTS CENTRE MELBOURNE TO PRESENT...

November 12, 2019

ED WELLS unveils new single GMT

November 11, 2019

Bobby Maguire

November 11, 2019

Renn Picard

November 11, 2019

Lunar Plane

November 11, 2019

June the Eleventh Release ‘Vietnamese Immigrants’

November 11, 2019

Music Interviews


What's your name and role within The Chats?  Matt Boggis I wack tubs  Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? we are based on the Sunshine Coast Queensland. It’s pretty chill here, not too much of a scene but there’s some great bands from here like the unknowns and hobo magic. How did you first start playing and writing music? We played a lot in school during classes we didn’t really like and lunch. After school we spent a lot of time jamming and writing songs in our good mates shed. Who or what influences your sound and songwriting? We listened a lot to the saints, wire, cosmic psychos, and eddy current suppression ring. So I guess we got a lot of inspiration from those bands  What equipment does the band use live?  It changes around a fair bit but at the moment,  Eamon plays a fender super bass man with precision bass, josh plays through a fender twin with his jazz master and I just play cc drums with ziljian cymbals.   How do you usually go about writing music? We always seem to write songs while we are just jamming, so we just jam and see what happens usually.  You're currently heading towards the end of a massive Aussie tour, favourite show to date and why? Our favourite place to play so far on that tour was probably the triffid in Brisbane, all the people there we really nice and, the sound is the best.  How do you prepare for each show? Bit of drinking. Who are you listening to at the moment? Been listening to a lot of sheer mag, the smarthearts and twin peaks. What do you like to do away from music? Been skating since I was 7 so when I’m not playing music I like to skate heaps.  How do you usually go about recording and who do you usually work with during recording?  Lately, for the album we been working on we have been recording down in Geelong with Billy Gardner, and working with mikey young getting it mixed and all that stuff...  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? We are currently in Europe till 15 dec, then we have a bit of time off until laneway festival which we are all real keen for! https://www.facebook.com/thechatsband/

The Chats

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?   We are based out of beautiful Vancouver, Canada. The truth is – the cost of living here can sometimes make it challenging to maintain a thriving music scene. With that said, we consistently get amazing support at our local shows!    How did you first start playing music?   I always wanted to play the drums as a kid. I used to skateboard with my friends and we’d listen to pop punk music, I became obsessed with Travis Barker and knew I wanted to be a drummer. In seventh grade, I started in music class and chose the drums as my instrument. That’s where it all kicked off.    How did CIVILIANA form?   Sitting right beside me in that seventh grade music class was my friend Spencer Daley. He chose to play the bass and we instantly formed a band. That was almost 15 years ago and we haven’t stopped playing together since. During high school, we met a guitarist at a neighboring high school named Adam Wilson. The three of us had great musical chemistry, so it was a natural fit. We stopped playing together for quite a while, but reunited in Vancouver in our early 20s and got the band back together. Shortly after, we added our fourth member, Daniel Ponich.    What's been happening recently?   We’ve been playing a ton of shows in support of our 3 singles (“Carry a Light”, “Void”, and “Melt”) that we dropped this year. Any bigger city in Western Canada has been our target to play a show at and this year we’ve pretty much hit them all. Besides that, we are currently writing a new batch of songs that will likely be our next recordings in 2020. You've just released your three part musical arc, please tell us what these three singles represent:   My early 20’s had a couple of failed relationships. The experiences I had led me to write lyrics that encapsulated the feelings of loneliness, isolation and longing I was going through.   “Carry a Light” is about the feelings that exist after a relationship ends, as if you’re stuck looking in the past and wanting what you used to have.   “Void” represents the self reflection and ability to find meaning in yourself over anything else.   “Melt” is the stage when you’re ready to move forward, as well as the raw intimacy and messiness that comes from seeking new connections.    What influenced the sound and songwriting?   Our sound is heavily influenced by the artists we grew up with, along with the technology that we have access to. The Dead Weather was a big influence and contributed to the gritty and rock sound we have in some of our songs. Adam, Spencer and Dan are always up to date with the newest music equipment and synthesizers so that will always be a part of our sound.    How did you go about writing the music?   Adam will generally bring an idea to the band during a rehearsal. We’ll play it a couple times to get a feel for it and then it becomes a free-for-all of suggestions and alterations from every member. It’s a very organic process. Sometimes the song ends up sounding similar to Adam’s initial idea, but sometimes it’s wildly different.    Where and when did you record and who with?   We recorded our songs at Echoplant Studio in the summer of 2018 with Matt Di Pomponio and Ryan Worsley.    What programs/instruments did you use?   Outside of the traditional instruments you can hear, there were a bunch of random elements and instruments added. Harpsichord can be heard in the bridge of “Carry a Light”, and we literally dropped a massive bag of chains in an Echo chamber to get the drum sound for “Void”.    How do you prepare for each live show and what makes your life show different?   The preparation starts at rehearsal. We try to rehearse at the same energy level and attention to detail that would exist at a live show. One thing that makes our live show different from other bands is our stage set up. We slide the drum set to the front of the stage, so it’s right in the audience’s face.     How did you come to be the drummer/vocalist?   Spencer and I were a duo for a couple of years in the early days of learning our instruments. He doesn't really sing so I just learned how to do it out of necessity. I never really thought of myself as a vocalist but after years of practice and developing my voice, it’s really become part of my identity.    Please tell us about the music video's and how the concept for each came about?   The music videos were all shot by a Vancouver film production company called Radiodial and led by Kaio Kathriner. Kaio and I would meet up for a coffee to throw ideas out. We ended up landing on using projections as a theme for all 3 videos. “Carry a Light” projects some really wild visuals that we actually use for our live show as well. “Void” projects the lyrics of the song upon us. “Melt” uses projections in the form of silhouettes.    What did you find most challenging and rewarding whilst creating each video?   Being the drummer, the shoots are usually around 10 hours and about 75% of that I’m drumming the entire time. It’s physically exhausting but I also enjoy the grind. Our editor Tom Melancia did an unreal job with “Melt” and you can tell the visual effects he used were very time-intensive.    What do you like to do away from music?   Outside of music, I am involved with a company that supports entrepreneurs. I learn a ton about marketing, branding and exactly what it takes to run your own business. A lot of that is directly applicable to running a band. Besides that, I love cooking and since I’m Canadian, watching and playing hockey is a big part of my life.    Who are you listening to at the moment?   Courtney Barnett, Alexandra Savior, and St. Vincent are probably my heaviest rotation. There are a lot of amazing female musicians out there making awesome music.    What planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?   We played a couple of shows in Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver and Kelowna this fall, but the biggest focus right now is on writing. We have so many new ideas and we’re trying to refine it all and choose the best songs of those bunch to move forward with in 2020.    Favourite food and place to hangout?   Phnom Penh Restaurant in Vancouver’s Chinatown district is a must if you visit. I take all my friends from out of town there. 

Civiliana

What is your name and role within Papaya Tree? My name is Lee McDermott and I do as little as possible for Papaya Tree. Sometimes I sing out of tune and play rhythm guitar even more out of tune. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are from sunny sydney, God's country. Sydney ain't dead, not yet at least. How did Papaya Tree form? Papaya Tree formed when myself and Jack Johnston (Lead guitar) met working at a butcher shop. We decided to put together a mishmash of old school mates from years back and uni mates. Fun fact, Jordan Tulinsky (Lead Trumpet) was my younger brothers best friend in primary school, they went separate ways and we stole him. What have you been working on recently? Staying together.  You’re new single ‘Covered In Weeds’  was released recently, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? The song is about my personal split between my old 9 to 5 city life and my life in music: finding time for both being in the scene and pretending to be someone I wasn't.  Sonically, we love all things weird and left of center - we kind of stretch out our sounds to reflect this, whether it be the glitchy drums towards the back end of the track to the erry guitar tones placed in the verse which of course all serve the story of the song!  Where and when did you record and who with? We recorded the track at Parliament Studios in Leichhardt earlier this year. Home away from home truly. How did you approach the recording/production process? Our producer Phan Sjarif has an amazing skill of tearing apart any track we bring in (that we think is finished) and building it back from the ground up.  Just add Reverb  and pull it down 2db - Papaya Tree Proverb  Who did you work with during the recording and production process? Phan Sjarif, the co owner of Parliament Studios - the only producer that can take Don Buri Uber Eats as payment.  We have our tracks mastered by Darren Zeising, the man behind the inbox. What progams/instruments did you use? We recorded on pro tools! We are a big pedal band... blessing and a curse (playing live and running five separate pedalboards, gotta watch your step! We run all our horns through pedalboards which we use to distort the traditional tones of the instrument! What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the recording/production process?  Challenging: each other Rewarding: getting the track finished after agreeing  Who are you listening to at the moment? Loving some awesome Aussie bands like Georgia June, CREO rat!hammock ect - its a good time for Australian music but I also fail to remember a bad time for Australian Music. What do you like to do away from music? Think about music and collect lighthouses - up to 26 lighthouse magnets, minature sculptures, lamps ect. Not for sale. What’s planned for 2019/20 Aussie Summer? We are hitting the studio once more, we have a huge 2020 planned!  Favourite food and place to hangout? Come find us at Bar Italia in Leichhardt - Order the "bogan meal", dont ask why just order. https://www.facebook.com/papayatreemusic/

Papaya Tree

Five influences for Society of Beggars new single ‘God Mode’

renn picard

Renn Picard

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?  Mert is based in Istanbul and the music scene has grown so much that there are multiple large scale events every week. Emre moved from Berlin to Seattle and the scene there is still growing with the help of a handful of clubs. Along with that, festivals like Burning Man and Lightning In A Bottle are helping our kind of music grow on the west coast of the US. How did you first start playing music?  It all started when we were building a music streaming app with our friends, who took some courses on Ableton during the time we worked together. They helped us see how amazing it is to create tunes, and since then it has been all about learning and discovering. What’s been happening recently?  We’ve been touring separately. Emre is introducing Lunar Plane to the Americas and Mert is touring on the other side of the world. We will get back together from time to time and play a few shows as a duo. Also, one of our tracks, Olappa, made it to Beatport’s #1 in Afro House and stayed there for two months. That was a great highlight from last summer. Your new remix for Marcus Meinhardt is out soon, what influenced the remix?  We wanted keep the bass groove and add our own synth sounds and drums on it. We ended up experimenting with different synths and transitioning from one to the other.  What programs/instruments did you use?  We produced it on Ableton and most of the synth channels were made with Diva. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of the remix? The most challenging part was having multiple lead sounds and making them work together.  How do you decide on tracks to remix? We usually look for a groove or melody that is unique and that could fit our sound.  When you have chosen a track to remix, how do you then approach the task of remixing the track? We tidy up all the channels, eliminate the ones that we won’t be using, keep the characteristic aspects, try recreating some parts and add some bits that could fit the track. Pretty simple formula haha =) Where and when will you be touring next? All over the world =) An India tour for Mert and a South America tour for Emre could be happening in 2020. We can meet up for an Asia/Australia tour. We’ll see! How do you prepare for shows?  We prepare the tracks that we are working on for road-testing, and then update our USBs with some of the new tracks that we like from other producers.  What do you like to do away from music?  Reading is a big part of our lives. It’s great for ear recovery and taking the eyes off of screens. It also helps pass the time when we travel for shows. You're signed to MFM Booking Agency, how is being apart of the MFM Booking Family and how have things progressed since becoming apart of the crew? We’re really excited to be a part of it. Although it has only been a week since we started, we can say that working with MFM is going to be great. What’s planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?? To wrap up the year, we have a new single coming out on Disco Halal. We’ve been playing this track for almost a year and the responses have been amazing. We’re really excited for that one! Favourite food and place to hangout? Third wave coffee shops are perfect to get some work done and they have great coffee. Drinking coffee definitely sparks some inspiration in us.

Lunar Plane

What's been happening recently?  I released the first single “1985” a few months ago so it’s been all about that up until now. It’s been received pretty well and the official video was screened at a film festival here to great praise. It’s been fun getting it out there and just excited to release the full album now. Also I’ve been writing more music, good times.  You have a debut album 'Cowboys & Africans' coming out on November 5, what influenced the title for this album?  It came from the concept that all humans originate from Africa (at one point in history) so as laymen, we are all ‘Africans’. The ‘Cowboys’ reference is to the people in positions of power, who take advantage of the everyday person (or those they have power over). Basically - Hacks, who are bluffing it, but with our quality of life. The songs challenge how we see ourselves in today’s society.  What influenced the sound and songwriting?  Big sound influences are Fela Kuti, Talking Heads & Ennio Morricone, Production sounds were inspired by D’Angelo (Russell Elevado), Bowie (Tony Visconti) & of course Joel Hamilton. Joel produced my last two ‘Federation of the Disco Pimp’ records, he changed it all for myself & Ross Saunders (Dusty Reel, who engineered & mixed ‘Cowboys & Africans’). He literally changed how I listen and write music. Them coupled with lots of African percussion & Baritone guitars. A major songwriting influence is Bill Withers – he just always has a way of saying the ordinary but making it art! I just try to write in my own voice with that in mind.  How did you approach the songwriting process?  This album was way out my comfort zone in regards to it all being based around the lyrics, that up until this point, I’d never really written much of. It’s always been instrumental but then I just started writing down words. This was mainly because I spent a lot of time either travelling to and from gigs, or looking after my (at the time) baby girl Maya. Both meant I couldn’t really sit at the piano and write like I usually would, so I just wrote down what was going on around me, and in the world. Turns out it’s been a pretty interesting few years for this place we inhabit.  How did you go about writing the music for this album?  It all was based around the lyrics & melody. Every step of the way from writing guitar lines to mixing the strings – they all had to serve the message of the song. It’s all just a platform for the message of the lyrics & melody to sing out. Again because this was a new process for me it was exciting to serve a different ‘voice’. That age-old question you hear everyone asking artists – ‘What do you write first, the lyrics or the music?’ For me it’s the lyrics/melody, how can it not be when they’re the most important part of the song. They inspire every last part of the process.  What programs/instruments did you use to record and produce?  This being my first solo album, it gave me the freedom to put whatever instrument / sound on it I wanted too. When writing for my band in the past, I’ve always known I’m writing for a certain bunch of instruments, but this time it was all about what would serve the lyrics. I wanted to use instruments & sounds that you’d recognise but they’re not what them seem, for example the piano isn’t an acoustic one but rather a Yamaha CP-70 that is electric/acoustic (the one Prince & D’Angelo use), I went for a Hammond L-100 rather than the classic B3 because that’s what used in a lot of African Funk, there’s African bells rather than your standard triangle, baritone guitar rather than electric in some places, you get the idea. There’s old school 80’s synths like the Korg Poly 800, & of course the LINN drum. It’s all small moves that combine into giving these songs their own sound. Ross had fun with some great plug-ins including ‘Taupe’ & a bunch of ‘Acustica’ ones (too many to mention – ask him!).  What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creative process for this album?  The most unexpected but rewarding part of this process was that I ended up inviting so many of my close friends to be part of it. That wasn’t my thinking initially, but after I got my core rhythm section sorted (Ross Saunders, Michael Berrich & Ross Whyte) who I’ve had for nearly 18 years on and off and trust no one else as much to have my back when recording and performing. I then realised these songs where autobiographical and I was baring all in them – it just clicked at that point, I want to surround myself with people I love, that will make this album with me. I had the most fun inviting friends I’ve not seen properly in a LONG time to come guest on it, to newer friends who are all as equally as close – it was the best time and never for a second did I realise it was going to go this way. Bringing all these amazing people together and some of them  meeting each other for the first time inspired more energy and creativity in the studio. Also I have to point out I couldn’t fit everyone on this album, so just means I can invite them for the next.  The most challenging part was just logistically getting them all in the room, that coupled with working on a tight budget. It never stifled the creativity or energy thankfully though.  Please tell us about how and why you came to be involved with Kickstarter for this album, what you learned through the process and what advice you would give to other artists intending to use Kickstarter:  I had little (or no) money to make this album initially, I knew the scale of what I was writing was ambitious, and I’ve been spoiled with the last few albums being able to go to Brooklyn to record them. That led me to launching a crowd funding campaign for two reasons. One I needed money to make it, and Two, I wanted to see if there was an appetite for me to do this. I set a target of £5k, that would show me if people would want this album to be made plus I knew it would cost a lot more, but it would give me start I needed to make it right. I choose Kickstarter as with all their campaigns you need to hit your target or you get nothing! I liked that – all or nothing, I subscribe to that a lot. I knew if I didn’t hit the target I wouldn’t want to make it anyway – thankfully I smashed it.  Another unexpected gift I got from crowd funding was that I had this instant community and family who I could connect with about the whole process and I am still interacting with. It’s actually amazing, getting feedback and the incredible messages and love sent my way has been wild. I had no idea this would happen but I would TOTALLY recommend this to ALL artists who want to actually connect with their audiences. THANK YOU ALL MY KICKSTARTER FAMILY – you made this album happen as much as anyone.  When campaigning I’d recommend showing everyone who you are outside of music too, what makes you tick and your influences. They want to know about you and where the inspiration comes from. It is scary being that open and honest publicly but they’ve got your back and they’ll respond with what you need!  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?  Promote & start gigging the album – I want to take it everywhere I can. Who wants it? Invite me and I’m there!!  Favourite movie and holiday location?  Hardest question by far – I love movies as much as music so can’t pick one sorry. I’ll cheat and give you Top 5 (in no particular order)  – A Clockwork Orange, Taxi Driver, American Psycho, Vertigo & Last Tango in Paris.  I love Brooklyn but would rather be working there than holidaying. Rome is one of my favourite places too & I want to go to Tokyo (I’m cheating again but I don’t care!)  Please include links to socials and website.  https://cafolla.bandcamp.com www.cafollamusic.com FB / Instagram / twitter - @CAFOLLAMUSIC Spotify - https://spoti.fi/2BDS1ll 

Cafolla

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I ́m based in Offenbach (Germany) and my studio is in Frankfurt, both cities belong to the so called Rhein-Main-Area. We have quite a rich history in electronic music. If you have a look at all the artist or labels who've left their footprints in the scene, you'll see that a lot of them are from here. But over the past years it has become a little quiet about the local scene.  How did you first start playing electronic music? I produced music first and after my first release on Kindisch/ Get Physical, which was back in 2012, I got into performing my music. I started as a live-act before becoming a DJ too.  What's been happening recently? This year has been a great year for me personally, because I took some time off to spend it with my family, and that was honestly one of the best decisions I could come up with in years. Music-wise I'm spending lots of hours in my studio or I use the time when I travel to my shows to work on new music.  You recently released your EP Anela, what influenced the sound and songwriting? Anela was released on Mobilee Reocrds and it was quite special for me because over the past years I basically only released my music on my own label RKJVK. With the release on Mobilee I kind of get myself out of the comfort zone and I am more than happy with the result. The follow up of Anela, which is called “Time“, will be out on Mobilee on December 6th, 2019 to be precise.  How did you approach the songwriting process for Anela? The process has been very natural to me. I always try to catch the mood I'm into the moment I sit on a production.  What programs/equipment did you use to create 'Anela' and where and when did you produce it? As I mentioned before, I try to use the time when I travel to work on new music and usually I keep it simple, so I used my MacBook, Ableton, a midi-keyboard and headphones.  How has the response been from fans? The response was and still is very good. I feel a strong connection to my audience in and outside the club. I can feel a lot of respect paired with trust and both has been growing over the last years of touring and releasing music.  Please tell about any new music that you have on the way: My next EP is “Tohon/Ajala“ on my label RKJVK, the release: date is November15th, 2019. And, as I aforementioned my last EP for this year will be „Time“ on Mobilee. I am really looking forward have them both out there.  Where and when are you playing/touring next? I just came home from Dubai and soon I will play some shows in Germany, France, Turkey, Poland and the Netherlands before heading to Asia after. You can find all my shows on my website www.rkjvk.com and I would be very happy to see you on the dance floor out there.  Favourite food and place to hangout? There are so many great places but right now, thinking about the tour- dates I ́m looking forward on the food courts of Singapore and the incredible street food in Bangkok.  Who are you listening to at the moment? The Voices of my Family, the most beautiful thing I can listen to.  What do you like to do away from music? I ́m a family and sports man and I like to do all kind of art. That ́s the most important to me and basically everything I have time for in-between touring.  What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? 2020 sounds pretty amazing to me. I can feel good things will happen. Till then I'll enjoy life with my beloved ones,try to be positive every day and avoid stressful situations.  http://rkjvk.com https://www.facebook.com/rkjvk https://soundcloud.com/rkjvk https://www.instagram.com/rkjvk

Rey&Kjavik

Where you are currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m based in Cambridge, a city that I fall in love again every morning that I wake. The music scene here is fragmented & broad in different genres with the largest proportion of the multinational student population consumed by commercial chart music, house, techno & D&B promoters seem to come & go quite quickly with only one or two long standing established parties moving in phase with the terms of the universities. It's something we've struggled against with our own Motherchip Conexxion parties. How did you first get into playing music? the moment I first heard synth music on the radio as a child, I knew I wanted to make music, my first experiences of DJing was at a youth centre, I was 13, I was trained on the basic use of a mixer & turntables, I left home early aged 17 to move into a small flat which I used as a base to buy music gear, I've always worked hard to be able to buy my gear & that mind-set hasn't changed. What's been happening recently? Nothing out of the ordinary - work, come home, turn the rig on, write, mix, record, sleep, sleep, repeat. I recently took my first holiday since 2005, which was lovely, well deserved. Your new EP 'Scorched Earth' has just been released, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this EP? Most of the influence in this works came from the current global, political/social climate of which I find myself at odds with, fear, frustration, anger & brief phases of elation & triumph are the biggest human ingredients. How did you go about writing the music? It varies when I write an entire EP over the period of a year, some of it starts from samples, "The Air Beneath' started with a selection of industrial field recordings I took last year & gradually layered it up, tracks like 'chant #1' started with just a kick drum & my ranting about Brexit, I took the Alpha juno "The What" patch & manipulated it to match the vocal rhythm & pitch, an incredibly detailed & time consuming process but also rewarding, it's the timbre that keeps on giving when used well. The idea with the vocal came from the pure confusion & differing opinion experienced by the British current affairs & social media consumer. Where and when did you record/produce? I recorded 'Scorched Earth at a variety of locations & pieced it all together at home over the last year, it was produced as the dance floor friendly Right-hand alternative to the abstract/Industrial ambient 'Trepidation Ladder' which has also just been released at the same time on Opal Tapes. What programs/instruments did you use to record/produce? The most prolific instruments I used was the Roland Alpha Juno 1, a Strymon timeline, digitech reverb, Korg MS20, Roland JP-08, Roland TR-09, Akai S2000 sampler, earlier this year after a lifetime of waiting for the right moment I acquired a Roland Jupiter 4 which I multi-tracked over the whole EP in places  which was very exciting. I arranged & recorded using Cubase 5.0 & a Tascam DP008 multi track. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of Scorched Earth? Without a doubt Chant#1 riff was the most challenging part of the works & took a few months of fine tuning & sculpting. Trepidation ladder was the most rewarding track to make because of the diversity of sounds used its rich analog nature. What's your impression of the techno scene at the moment, how it operates and what do you think of it at the current moment? I think for the most part pure techno is still a thriving genre, it's disappointing that the heavily commercialised EDM/techhouse festival sound is being mixed up with purist techno, two very different things. Who are you listening to at the moment? Surprisingly I'm not listening to anyone at the moment, during extended seasons of writing I rarely listen to any other artists as I like to remain unmoved & uninfluenced, I sometimes listen to classical radio whilst driving, lately my DJ sets have been more about playing only my own production with just a few other artists that I appreciate. What do you like to do away from music? I like photography & art, 3D modelling, graphic design, I've spent a lot of time this year trying to become fit again & look after myself, I'd also spent a couple of years with a University Kendo club but had to retire due to surgery, hoping to return when the time is right. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I've got some unheard works I'm trying to get signed as well as working on some organic new wave/disco type numbers, of course more techno, I always keep numerous recording projects running to avoid writers block or becoming stale. I have two video projects coming as collaborations with Rufus Ho - one for 'Trepidation Ladder (Ossicle phases mix)' & one for 'The Air Beneath' which is on Opal Tapes, I don't like to be idle or grazing. Favourite food and place to hangout? I don't have a favourite food, I'm trying to refrain from eating any type of meat & I don't eat a lot, I likeMilled Flaxseed, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Walnuts & Co-Enzyme Q10 in smoothies, I eat of lot of fruit & vegetables, my only food vice is chocolate! . https://www.subdermic.com/interface

The Subdermic

My name is Dylan Mattheisen! I sing and play the guitar! Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are born and raised in Benson, MN. It’s a tiny town with a population of only 3,000 people. There’s not much of a music scene, so we knew at a younger age if we wanted to play to more than a few people, we'd have to travel to Fargo and Minneapolis. The scenes there are awesome and seem to be booming! How did Tiny Moving Parts form? Matt and Bill are brothers and I am their cousin. We’ve been family and best friends ever since we were babies! We loved bands like Blink 182 and Sum 41, after watching their music videos countlessly, we knew we wanted to be a band. When we were graduating high school and heading to Fargo for college, we bought a crappy van off Craigslist for $500 and started touring the US whenever we could! What's been happening recently? We finished our EU/UK tour a few weeks ago, and currently on a 6 week US tour right now. Staying busy and playing fun shows is what’s been on our plate lately, having a great time! Your 5th album 'breathe' was released on the 13th of September 2019, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? There wasn’t a specific thing that influenced the record, it’s kind of a mix of everything we enjoy about music. We love writing crazy instrumentation, but also enjoy catchy choruses. In the van we always jam bands anywhere from The Fall of Troy to Paramore. We even enjoy listening to country!   How did you go about writing 'breathe'? We always start with a guitar riff. I’ll be in my bedroom and create a riff or even a full song, and the next day bring it to the guys at band practice. Band practice is where we finalize and spice up al the songs, and then I’ll go home after to write the lyrics. Song writing in general is a lot of trial and error, so it’s important to not get down when a song doesn’t go as planned. We have a million songs that haven’t made any record but that’s the way it goes sometimes! Where and when did you record and who with? We went with our friend Greg Lindholm from Blane, MN. He’s done a majority of our records, and we knew we wanted to go with him again for breathe. We experimented with another producer John Fields from Minneapolis. We did three songs with him and it was awesome! Very cool seeing how different producers work and how it helps the songs. What programs/instruments did you use? All the guitars and bass were Fender. I also used my Fender SuperSonic amplifier. Billy rocked his Ludwig drum set that he uses live! You'll be touring Australia in Jan/Feb 2020, what can we expect from these shows? We promise to provide a fun high energy show! We love great sing a longs with the crowd. Truly so excited to be back in Australia! How do you prepare for your live shows? I’ll do some minor vocal warm ups since I'm terrified of losing my voice on the road. Other than that, we do little stretches and make sure we’re relaxed and in a good headspace. A couple PBR’s before the set doesn’t hurt us either haha. Any area's/shows that you're most looking forward to visiting/playing? It’ll be sick to play Perth again! We’re hoping at some point to make the trip to Rottnest Island and see some quokkas! What do you find most challenging and rewarding whilst being on tour? Hearing how our music has helped people through tough times in their life or in anyway is the most rewarding. It’ll never get old hearing how special music truly is. One challenge on the road is making sure you’re okay. Long drives every night and lack of sleep could result to feeling tired and down. Make sure to take care of yourself in general is very important, and stay hydrated! What do you like to do away from music? We love golfing so dang much. We had the whole summer off from touring, so we golfed 6-7 times every week. Now with winter coming, we’re going to miss it terribly! Who are you listening to at the moment? Oso Oso released a wonderful record this year. We’re currently on tour with Fredo Disco and Standards, and watching them every night has been a treat! What's planned for the remainder of 2019/2020? We have Australia, SE Asia, and other touring plans in line. Very excited for everything! Favourite food and place to hangout? In our hometown there’s a new bar and grill called Hanny’s! It has very awesome food and a great sports environment just a few blocks from my house. We love chicken wings and football! Website: http://www.tinymovingparts.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tinymovingparts Twitter: https://twitter.com/TinyMovingParts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinymovingparts/

Tiny Moving Parts

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I am currently based in Melbourne, Australia, and the music scene is bloody fantastic here at the moment. So much incredible new music and people breaking down boundaries between music genres and working across disciplines. I like it when musicians act like artists and there’s so much of that happening now. It’s great. How did you first get involved with playing music? I first got involved with music from listening to the wind whistling around the eaves of the haunted house I grew up in, and howling along with it. Shortly afterwards I discovered the beautiful sounds of the theremin and have been waving my hands around in front of that instrument to try to create similar sounds ever since. What’s been happening recently? I’ve been recording theremin, making videos, planning costumes and generally preparing for the release of my new album The Gateway which is coming out on cult UK soundtrack label Death Waltz in the new year. I’ve also been playing with my new theremin and harp project The Narcoleptor which is a collaboration between myself and classical harpist Mary Doumany. You’re new single ‘Shudder Speed’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? The theremin is a relatively young instrument and as such it doesn’t really have any clear genre that it belongs to, which is fantastic. With each body of work that I wrote I like to try to place the theremin in a new musical context. In the past it’s been prog rock, industrial, noise rock, neoclassical, dark wave and synth pop. For this record I thought it would be fun to try it out in a high NRG nu-Italo electronic space. I suppose it’s some kind of theremin party music. Usually the theremin is associated with spooky of melancholic music, so I thought it would be fun to step outside of that and see how it works in a new musical space. How did you go about writing ‘Shudder Speed'? This one just sort of popped out of nowhere when I was jamming along with my SH-101 synthesiser and a classic goth 3/4 beat on the drum machine. Where and when did you record and who with? I moved around a lot when making this record – this track was made in a room above Sameheads - my favourite Italo club in Berlin. I also recorded at Die Hit Fabrik in Berlin, and the Castle of Terror in Melbourne. This is album is a totally solo effort - no guests this time around - and it was mixed by the wonderful Tony Espie at Tufftones in Melbourne. What programs/instruments did you use to record? My music is made 100% analogue hardware instruments. On this album I used a Moog Etherwave Pro theremin, Moog Slim Phatty, Roland SH-101, Roland RS202, Roland JX-3P & Oberheim Matrix 1000 synthesisers, and a bunch of drum machines recorded into ProTools. Please tell us about how you came to learn and play the Theremin: I was introduced to the theremin by my dad who is an electrical engineer and had the plans to build one from a 1970s science magazine. I was just discovering analogue synth music and really getting into Moog synths. My dad explained that Moog synths were actually based on a theremin circuit design - Bob Moog actually built theremins before he invented the synthesiser. I was totally fascinated by the the fact that the theremin is played without being touched (you wave your hands around near the instrument to play it) and I thought the sound was one of the most human and haunting things I’d ever heard. Then I began the long slow process of trying to learn how to play it. How did the concept for the ‘Shudder Speed’ music video come about? I’ve always wanted to work with Geoffrey O’Connor as he is one of my favourite Australian artists. He also has a great sense of humour which is always one of the strengths of his video work. I sent Geoff the album and he came back with the idea of reanimated mannequins / undead goth hipsters in an art gallery. I love 80s videos that exist in a weird dream space where strange things happen and Geoff and I looked at a bunch of super fun weird videos where this vibe was really strong. Then we invited a bunch of our most fabulous mates into the studio and went for it. Where and when did you film? We shot the video at IDEA studios in Brunswick a few months ago. The shoot involved a colossal amount of smoke machine, blue champagne and dancing. How do you prepare for your live shows? Playing the theremin requires a lot of concentration and physical control because the instrument is actually your body - every little movement you make effects the sound of the theremin including breathing. So I do spend a lot of time practicing before a show and trying to be extra healthy. When I first met my theremin teacher Lydia Kavina she listened to me playing and told me that she could hear that I didn’t sleep enough and drank too much! So it’s important to try to keep a clear mind so you can drop into the meditative space that good theremin playing requires. What programs and equipment do you use whilst performing live? My music is all hardware based so I use the Moog Etherwave Pro theremin, Roland SH-101, Moog Slim Phatty, Moog Sirin and Roland SP404 for live shows. What do you most enjoy about playing live? The music on this record was composed for a live party environment and I love working with a crowd and playing with expectations to take the music into a super fun place. It's also great seeing people react to the theremin especially if they haven’t seen one before. I also really enjoy dressing up for shows - my live performance character is some kind of sci-fi Nosferatu - so it’s fun to take things into a heightened over-the-top space for live performances. What do you like to do away from music? Music is what I like to do most! I also work as a music curator and I love helping other artists to create new work - especially if they are unusual and push the boundaries of what is expected in their field. Who are you listening to at the moment? Right now I have been really enjoying the music of Greg Hawkes (synth player from The Cars), the great new collab EP by Francsico & Malkuth on Giallo Disco records, Essaie Pas, Chela, A/N, Mariah (the Japanese band) and Cale Sexton. Where and when are you playing next? I am launching my new single Shudder Speed this Thursday 31 October at The Curtin for a huge Halloween party with support from Australian electronic legend Black Lung, gloom rock heartthrobs Venetian Blinds, my new classical harp and theremin duo The Narcoleptor and DJ Kate Fox playing Halloween bangers all night. What projects are you working on at the moment? I have two new solo records coming out next year - one is a sort of adult contemporary theremin record full of super melancholic lament-style music, the other is a super dark heavy electronic record. We also have another Narcoleptor record ready to go and I’m also working on a new record with my band The Night Terrors. So lots of new music in the works right now! What’s planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I’ll be planning my 2020 tours for The Gateway, doing some more Narcoleptor shows and putting the finishing touches on the new records in preparation for next year. 2020 is the 100th birthday of the theremin so there will be a lot of fun stuff happening and I know the international theremin community is planning a lot of special stuff. Favourite food and place to hangout? My favourite food and place to hang out are both the same - I love Laser Pig in Collingwood. Excellent food, fabulous music and the most delightful bar staff in Melbourne. Where else can you hear cutting edge electronic music DJ’d live over delicious pizza? It’s the best. http://www.facebook.com/m1le5br0wn https://www.instagram.com/miles__brown/ https://twitter.com/milesssbrown

Miles Brown

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Hey guys, I’m currently based in Paris. The music scene is big over here we have many clubs & locations for any kind of sound  (from deep house to techno)  We have really nice crews & Collectives, like Drome, Iceberg Intel, Unplug, Bloom, also big festivals now ( Marvellous Island, Weather Festival..). The Scene is alive & involving over here ! How did you first start playing music? I’ve always been a fan of music, when i was a child i remember that i was already scratching my mum’s vinyls collection from Motown Rec. & all. So that was for me natural to get into art of Djing at the age of 18 or 19. I raised in Nantes (Britany-west of France) and we had so many parties at that time influenced by Crews from uk like « Spiral Tribe », so it was easy to play. My first gig was in a warehouse around the town. Your first EP ‘Dada’ on Anja Schenieder's label 'Sous Music' is coming out on the 25th of October 2019, what influenced the sound and song writing for this EP? First of all i wish to tell you how proud & happy i am with that release, and very thankfull to Anja for her belief & support about my music. On this Release the 3 trax have different influences.  « DADA » has been written after my gig at Womb (Tokyo) and this track is for sure influenced by japanes artist like  « Drunken Kong » or « SUDO » « Last Day In Space » has been written after i played in Berlin, this track is obviously influenced by what i heard at Tresor or Sysiphos. With « SolSol »  you can also see my inspiration from American techno style, with simple chord and minimalistic drums, I really enjoy stuff from Truncate, Victor Calderone, Avision, Damon Wild… How did you go about writing the music for the EP? Every track has been writing differently, for « DADA » i wanted a Club track with warm bass before all & groovy drums, For« Last Day In Space »i wanted to create a analogue sounding with a kind of Berliner cold wave touch with synth sounds. Concerning « SOLSOL » i wanted to combine the groove from drums and low bass with  analogue type of chord. How did you come to release on Sous Music? Well i’ve been in Touch with Anja for a while, she uses to play a lot of my trax in her dj sets, so i wrote to her and we kept the connection. From then on she asked me for Trax on Sous Music ;) Where and when did you record and produce and who with? All trax have been produced at my place, i have a simple but unique home studio. I produce alone and i do the mixes by myself. However i ‘ve asked to my friends some advices & pre masters are made at my friends Studio (Benjamin Joubert & Gael Brusseleers both are huge sound engineers) What do you have planned for this EP? I see This Ep as a test of a project of Lp, showing all my universe of creativity. What programs/instruments do you use? I produce on Fruity loops, i love the intuitive way of song writing, it’s easy & fast. I use my own samples (drums, perc, basses) & also samples from official packs (top loops, vocals). I use « Sylenth » synth (i love it) for bass lines & lead sounds, also« Massive » & « Absynth » (more for pads) Then i bounce all stems in audio & i open it in « Protools » from Digidesign for doing the Mix. Protools give a better color to audio & stereo.  How did you learn to produce and what do find most challenging and rewarding through the production process? I start learning production with friends, but i knew something was missing. So as i wanted to get professional in my music i’ve then studied music production at « SAE  Institute » In Paris, i learnt a lot from that school. However the point is that you also learn by producing every day, working hard & asking advises with other producers ! This is very important. I think that the most challenging is make sure you right in the challenge. Of course you start with an idea and sometimes you going to another way, the point is don’t be afraid to have explored all different ways offered by your imagination.  The most rewarding is when you see how it works on crowd ! How has the French electro music scene evolved since you first started taking notice and where do you see the French electro sound going? French scene has uncredibly involved the last decade ! I mean what was french scene before? For most of people it was French touch type (House & deep disco), which was of course, but this was hidding the rest of the scene, we have also a underground culture for years here and nowadays French electro sound is going more into a basic & hypnotic techno like Dutch or Germen do. Which French artists are you listening to at the moment? I listen a lot of Zadig stuff, also Dj Deep, Agoria, Shlomo. Noaria also electro pop from Paradis. I mean french scene is so various !!! Which clubs do you really like at the moment and why? My favorite clubs are Sisyphos , Panorama Bar, Tresor In Berlin, i love the spirit of free to party like you want clubs there are a unique experience, and the music is mad !! Womb, Ageha Tokyo, i’ve played there already and both are crazy, huge sound system and crazy people…. Paradiso Noord  / Tolhuistuin  (Amsterdam) A small club but a huge atmosphere & a mad sound system, i experienced playing there for my man Minitech Project label Party i had a blast Dehors Brut (Paris) : the Ex Concrete doesn’t look like a club , more like a open air party, the vibe is cool What do you like to do away from music? Going to Sport (Martial Arts) and hanging out with my lovely family, watching a lot of history Documentaries, andwalking in the street of Paris we have many cultural exhibition in town ! What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? End of 2019  is going to be great for me , with my release on SOUS MUSIC, i also have nice gigs coming up, and 2020 will be a big year i have many project in production and i feel my music rising up.. Favourite food and place to hang out in our hometown? Well i like all sorts of food, you have many many fantastic places to eat delicious meal, i often go close to my place at « Marché des Enfants Rouges » which is a street food market. It’s a must go to if you have never been there.

ASIO (aka R-Play)

What is your name and role within FOSSA? Hey! I’m Nick, and I compose, produce and perform synths and bass with Fossa.  How did you first start playing music? I started playing music back in primary school with piano and the recorder, before moving on to clarinet and sax in my later school years. Having had an upbringing with jazz music, I followed this path to study jazz saxophone at uni, before more recently diving into the realms of production and syntheses which brought me to creating Fossa in 2017. How did the band form? Fossa was initially a bedroom project taking huge inspiration from Tycho’s album, Epoch, as well as Bonobo’s Black Sands, and our debut EP, Bamboo, almost never saw the light of day. Following on from some tough curveballs that life threw at me and my partner, and some positive words of encouragement, I finally took the material it to Greenmount Studios in Leeds to track all the parts. At this point it was simply a studio band, but when we heard the final mix, we knew we had to turn it into a live project.  What's been happening recently? We had a good run in 2018, playing our first headline show, supporting Australian band Cub Sport, and taking stage at our first festival, Beat-Herder. We have put out two singles, 53rd Street and Tamar, and have recently just finished another week in the studio with producer Tom Orrell, tracking some brand-new material. We hope to have another single out by the end of the year.  I hear that you've just been in the studio recording three new tracks of which you plan to release a double single and a single within the next 6 months or so, what influenced the sound and songwriting for these tracks? These new tracks have definitely taken a different sonic path to our previous releases. I’ve learnt a lot more about synthesis in the past year, and this music definitely demonstrates that. It’s darker and more progressive in a more electronic sense than before. I’ve certainly taken a lot of influence from some of the incredible music that’s been released in the last couple of years by Floating Points, Jon Hopkins, Bonobo, Flying Lotus, to name a few.  How did you go about writing the music? I’m an Ableton nerd through and through, so that’s where nearly every idea starts. I’ve tried asking myself this question many times in the past actually, and have never landed on a specific method or routine. Sometimes I’ll have a melodic idea, or bass line, sometimes a drum groove in mind, and I’ll transcribe it to the DAW. I usually know within an hour if the idea is a good one and whether to pursue it though, and if I do, the rest kind of comes naturally through experimentation and more often than not, good luck with pressing buttons and twisting knobs!  Where and when did you record and who with? Everything that’s out at the moment has been recorded at Greenmount Studios in Leeds by our good friend Lee Smith. Weirdly enough, we always tend to get in the studio in the autumn, with our Bamboo EP being recorded in September 2017, our singles 53rd Street and Tamar in October 2018, and our most recent session being a few weeks ago, in September 19. We took our latest studio venture to a new studio however, The Nave, where it was captured by long-time university friend, Tom Orrell. We don’t have the final mixes back yet, but the first drafts are sounding incredible.  How did you approach the recording process? This time we did things very differently. Previously, we’ve gone in, recorded drums as a whole kit (why wouldn’t you right?) and gone from there. This time, we wanted a more electronic sound to the tracks, but without losing Tom Higham’s (drummer) awesome feel. We therefore went about recording each part of the drum kit in a separate take, which isolated the sound, and allowed us to manipulate the wave form as you would when sampling for example. The Nave studio has an incredible synth room which we had a lot of fun in as well, sending our parts through and experimenting with new sounds to the ones I initially came in with.  What programs/instruments did you use to record? Ableton all the way. A lot of my syntheses comes from a great synth plugin called Serum, amongst many others, and used a hardware Moog for a lot of the bass. The drum kit is all live, played by the ridiculous Tom Higham.  Who are you listening to at the moment? I’ve been pretty obsessed with Floating points recently, his new stuff is really opening my eyes to a lot of things in the electronic world. I’ve always been a Bonobo fan, and have also gone deep into the Jon Hopkins rabbit hole as well. All of these guys put on an incredible live show as well, which has always been a focus of mine, and is probably why they’ve ended up being such influences for my recent works.  What do you like to do away from music? I love to cook. It really relaxes me and I take a lot from the creativity of it as well. I also love to travel as much as possible, and It’s been a dream of mine for many years to own a taco truck and travel the world in it! What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? We have one show left in 2019, headlining a local venue called The Lending Room, alongside our good Leeds friends, Slow Loris (check them out!). We’re going to put out a new single as well, as well as a couple more at the beginning of 2020!  Favourite food and place to hangout? Has to be Mexican. Tacos for days. I’m not really one for going 'out out' that much anymore, but really enjoy the company of friends at home or a good local pub!  https://www.facebook.com/fossamusicuk

FOSSA

What is your name and role within Understory? I’m Caiden and I play guitar in Understory. How did you first start playing music? Probably in grade 6 I think - I started taking drum lessons in and out of school. How did Understory form? Nick, Doug and I started jamming and covering songs for a while. And somewhere along the line, I decided to get Ableton and an interface and start writing demos. I finished writing a couple of instrumentals and the 3 of us saw there was a vibe there so we reached out to Jayce (guitar) and Joel (drums) to complete the lineup we called ‘VRLS’ around mid-2018. We’re now stoked to call each other our best mates. What's been happening recently? We’ve had a quiet last few months as far as shows go but we’re constantly busy behind scenes. We have an EP on the way so preparing a few things for that cycle. Also, just recently dropped a single and music video. Your new single and video 'Windbreaker' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? Instrumentally, I was investigating what major/minor flips could do for a song and went on to explore that throughout the rest of the EP as well. As for the lyrics, that’s more Doug’s department but to summarise it mostly focuses on a lost soul seeking guidance in a world where status often influences our actions or ways of thinking. It recognises that we tend to put so much pressure on ourselves to meet others’ expectations that we lose ourselves in the process. How did you go about writing Windbreaker? I wrote the main riff back in 2016 and didn’t touch it for ages - it just sat in my voice recorder as music was really just a hobby at that point. It wasn’t till early 2018 that I committed to writing full instrumental demos at home. Funnily enough there were actually pieces of Windbreaker and our previous release Blindside (as ‘VRLS’) that were originally joined together until I separated them into different keys. Where and when did you record and who with? We recorded in Brisbane with Troy Brady and was mastered by Forrester Savell. What programs/instruments did you use? We used a variety of different instruments, including a PRS, a baritone ESP 7 string tele, a couple of Matons, a Fender Strat and a Dingwall bass. How did you approach the recording process? We went with open minds and put our faith in Troy - allowing the songs to become susceptible to change if need be. And so we were happy to try and/or revisit things we hadn’t thought of prior. His acute ear and guidance really helped us bring these songs to life in the best way. Please tell us how the concept for the video came about: We opted for something fairly clean cut, and there’s some vibrant colour blast going on too. “Clean” was a reoccurring adjective whenever we discussed visuals/promos for this release. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the filming process? Doug actually copped a nail to the knee a couple of days prior and somehow managed to get through the shoot - solid effort there. It was our first time in a studio so that in itself was rewarding for us. You have an EP coming up, what can we expect and when will you be releasing? Without giving too much away, there’s a bit of variety on there and some nice grooves. You’ll be able to hear it in full on Friday 15 November. What do you like to do away from music? The boys and I are pretty family oriented - we like to spend time with our folks. And we hang a lot together too. In my spare time, I like to kick the footy, watch horror films and sometimes seek some peace and quiet at the library or the beach. Most of us live very close to the water. Some mornings I might grab a coffee and go for a walk along the beach, it’s heaps nice there. Who are you listening to at the moment? Disclosure, Kendrick Lamar, Snarky Puppy, Anderson .Paak and I’ve been jamming a heap of future funk and chill hop playlists lately. If we’re all together we’ll likely jam some Limp Bizkit or Northlane. Collectively we have a very eclectic music taste - I don’t think there’s a genre that goes untouched. You're playing with Hands Like Houses on the 26th of October at the Wharf Tavern, Mooloolaba, what's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? There’s currently a lot of work going on behind the scenes for our EP cycle and we plan to head up North soon. As for 2020, we will look at taking the EP interstate and seeing some new places. Favourite food and place to hangout? GYG and also our local coffee spot Evolve Espresso. https://www.facebook.com/pg/understoryau/  https://www.instagram.com/understoryau/ 

Understory

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We’re currently based in Melbourne, and the music scene is so expansive and heavily saturated with artists that its insane. If you meet someone from Melbourne there’s a 90% chance they’re in a band. How did you first start playing music? My dad is a musician so I pretty much grew up around it from the day of my birth. ever since I could hold a guitar or drum sticks I’ve been playing music.  How did Pretty Bleak form? My dad used to teach Kyle guitar at my house, so we always sort of knew each other. When we were about 14 or 15 we decided to start a band with Kyles friend Brandon, and another one of our mutual friends on bass. We went through a few different bass players until we met Sanji and now we find ourselves in the modern day as PRETTY BLEAK. What's been happening recently? Recently we’ve just finished recording an EP full of the best songs we’ve written so far in our lives.  Your debut single 'Jawline' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track, how did you go about writing Jawline?  The origin and evolution of Jawline was definitely pretty arduous. I had the idea for my guitar riff in that song for a long time, and ended up writing three different songs using it before I finally fit it into something I was happy with. I recorded a demo for each one of the ideas and every time I wasn’t satisfied with the result. None of them seemed to fit with the rest of the songs on our EP, and they weren’t really ‘single’ kind of songs. I guess the intention behind it was to write a pop song that we could use as a single, but also not overly conform to typical pop song conventions. Basically I just wanted to write a song that could come on in a playlist and grab someone’s attention, even if it’s just merely out of curiosity.  Where and when did you record/produce and who with? We recorded the drums with Jon Grace at Homesurgery Studios, and then recorded all the guitars, keys, and vocals at my place. The mixing for Jawline was also done by Jon.  How did you approach the recording process? We always approach recording hungover. What programs/equipment did you use?  Homesurgery has heaps of awesome recording gear and mics that we had the pleasure of using for the drum tracks. In terms of the guitars we just recorded straight into my mac with a couple of mics. I always use logic pro to record/produce, its got a lot of good software instruments and synths that serve as starting points for  sound design. Usually I’ll take a preset and morph it into an interesting sound that serves as the underlying tone of the song we’re working on.  You also have a film clip for Jawline, please tell us about the concept and how it came about, where and when did filming take place and who did you work with? It was definitely our intention from the start to make a video that complimented the more sombre undertones of the song. We worked with our collaborator Tom Thomas, and he was definitely the right fit for the video because he understands the one between decadent, exaggerated pop stereotypes and the dark obscurities that our music exists within. And he has a vision about how we can manifest that in the visuals. Creating a dirty and menacing looking set and then lighting it with strikingly vibrant colours and smoke effects is a really complimenting analogy for the sound of the song. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the filming and editing? The most challenging thing was definitely the equipment we had to work with. It was a very low budget production and every singly shoot there was some kind of technical problem we had to overcome at the last second. Whether it be the camera fucking up or the lights or smoke machines not working at the crucial moment. The most rewarding thing was being able to end with a finished product that we are really happy with despite all of those obstacles.  Who are you listening to at the moment?  The new album by Bon Iver is the last thing I listened to.  What do you like to do away from music?  I don’t do anything away from music, I’m involved in it all day every day in some capacity.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? We’re playing a single launch show on November 15th at the Grace Darling Hotel which will pretty much see out the year for us. Going into 2020 we’ll have a new single out around Feb, and then our debut EP is set later in the year.  Favourite food and place to hangout? Favourite food is fear.  https://www.facebook.com/prettybleakband/

Pretty Bleak With Sam Thomas

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m in Melbourne, and the scene is pretty huge! There are a million bands and loads of places to play. It’s great meeting other musos and checking out all the venues. It would take a lifetime to play at all of them. How did you first start playing music? Both my parents played guitar and sang, and my mum performed professionally. I was always into writing songs, which I started doing when I was about 14. I learned classical singing, as well as clarinet, piano, guitar and bass guitar over the years. I love singing more than anything, and writing songs and performing are my main passions. What's been happening recently? There are 3 big things happening at the moment. 1. Stories EP which is a collaboration between myself and Perth producer Craig Cumming. 2. Misha Bear Band, my 5 piece band which are playing gigs all around town as well as recording. 3. Full length album currently being recorded by Melbourne producer David Herzog, which should be out in January. Your new EP 'Stories' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for Stories? Craig and I wrote most of the songs together, with him on the computer and me writing lyrics and singing vocal melodies. Stylistically we were drawing inspiration from the sound of the 80s and early 90s, such as a lot of the early Eurythmics, Culture Club and the Human League. How did you go about writing stories? The whole album was written, produced and mixed in Ableton, in Perth. For the most part, Craig gave me the backing track and then I came up with lyrics and the tunes. Crash and Burn was a song I had already written and that Misha Bear Band often plays, and Project 1 was completely written by Craig. All the others we wrote together. Where did you record/produce stories and who with? I lived over in Perth, Western Australia for 9 years, and for a few years Craig and I were in a band and worked together on our previous releases, Ladybug and Mouche. The songs for the Stories EP were coming along (as an electronic side project to the band), however 2 years ago I moved home to Melbourne. In order to complete the project we worked long-distance, with me recording all my vocals here with David Herzog.  Craig was actually visiting Melbourne during the week we launched and was able to come to one of the gigs where my band were playing the songs for the first time, which was pretty cool. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of Stories? Because we have been working on the music since 2015, it has been a long time in the making. This has been both a challenge in that it required a lot of patience, but also a rewarding aspect since we have had a lot of time to refine and work on the sound we were after. Being able to toil away bit by bit on tracks and add to them and tweak them over time really appealed to Craig, which was one of the reasons he decided to focus more on using programmed drums and synths. The songs have really evolved and progressed over both time and distance, since now we live on opposite sides of the country.   What do you have planned for stories? The Stories EP is out now on all digital platforms, and can also be purchased via Bandcamp. We are selling Download cards at gigs, rather than CDs, as these seem a bit more practical for this day and age. Who are you listening to at the moment? I recently went thru a big LP phase (an amazing singer from New York), but now I’m loving Sahara Beck (QLD). I can’t get enough of female singers – Sia is my all time fave. I have a guilty pleasure for 80s female power ballads. This is pretty embarrassing but my car CD player is so old that all my CDs wont’ work anymore, except for one – Music Box by Mariah Carey. Luckily I can listen to something on repeat and not get sick of it, and it’s good music to practice my singing to. For something different I listen to Flume or Childish Gambino. Anything really, depending on the mood – except heavy metal. What do you like to do away from music? I love catching up with family and friends, and hanging out at the beach, going for walks and runs, etc. I like yoga and pilates too. Perth is a really warm and outdoorsy city with beautiful beaches. In Melbourne you tend to go out to eat and drink a lot more often, which is also fine by me. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? My 5 piece band Misha Bear Band recently recorded 5 tracks in the studio, which are currently being mixed and will be released pretty soon. We do covers as well as originals, and are playing gigs around the city, suburbs and regional areas. I am also wrapping up recording a 10-12 track album with Melbourne producer David Herzog. This will once again bring me away from the traditional band sound and back to electronic pop, only this time it’s more modern and not so 80s. And once these 3 albums are out (including Stories) I will get back into my song writing and see what’s next musically for me. It feels so great to actually be making good progress with recording and releasing music, as there is nothing more frustrating than not having an outlet for all my song-writing. Favourite food and place to hangout? I would have to say going out for Mexican in Chapel St, especially for brunch. I love scrambled egg wraps, burgers and anything spicy. St Kilda beach is one of my favourite places to hang out, and now we are just hanging for summer! 

Misha Bear

https://www.facebook.com/ModernMeasure/

Modern Measure

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Currently i`m based in Cali, Colombia , my town, the scene here is one of the most important of the country with top artists like Harvy Valencia, DJ Fronter and others.. The people is very underground. How did you first start playing music? Always had passion for the music, Some friends who were already working in the electronic music industry introduced me to this world. My first experience front to a public playing music where it was in 2014, I will tell you a little how was this experience; I still did not start my stage as a producer, I stayed in my room with my headphones preparing the set for a month, there were days when I stopped eating because of anxiety, I listened to music all day, trying to select the best. My hometown, it ended up being the place where I would debut in the decks, I had a lot of anxiety, nerves, stress and desire to do it well, it was something very local ... the nerves disappeared when I played the second song and finally I felt more liberated, although I couldn't stop drinking beer, in the end it was perfect for me, which marked my start in the decks and people seemed to be as satisfied as I was. What's been happening recently? Recently i`m in the studio ending some new tunes for some big labels and closing some tours around south Amèrica and Europe. Not too long ago you released a two track EP called Discow with Hot Creations, how did you come to release with Hot Creations? It was a personal objective, and was not easy, Jamie Jones already play my music, releases on another labels, it was proccess of a lot months and send many music to Jamie Jones, until after trying for a long time I managed to create a blunt track that pleased Jamie, he tried it on the dance floor and people enjoyed it, it was then that Jamie contacted me back and told me that he would like to take it out in Hot Creations, and it was like “the duty fulfilled” for me, It was great. How has Discow been received by fans/industry? The EP and the track had a fantastic and incredible acceptance by the public around the world, I really did not expect such massive support from fans and great artists of the industry. What influenced the sound and songwriting for Discow? Discow is a proposal with soul influence, experimental jazz, funk and disco tones at its base. The cherry on the cake is a strong voice in the breaks, that adds expectation and euphoria. How did you go about writing the 2 tracks? I was in the studio for months, creating a loud sound with a mixture of some influences that could be remembered and that was true to my style, something “groover” focused on the dance floor. Where and when did you record/produce? It was in the months of February and March (2019) in my studio located in my town Yumbo, Valle del Cauca, Colombia Who are you listening to at the moment? Right now i`m listening a lot Dirtybird, the label of Claude VonStroke and the last works of Max Chapman, one of my favorite artists. What do you like to do away from music? I`m Painter and cartonist so i like to dedicate time to these passions, also i like a lot go to movie theater.. Horror, comedy or action movie preferably. You've recently signed with MFM Booking, how did this come about? After of this massive “boom” with Discow EP on Hot Creations, they contact to me and Harald told me of his ideas with me and i liked his proposal so we did it.. How has the experience with MFM Booking been so far? It`s a great experience, they are very professional and they give me a lot of confidence. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I has a tour with 3 gigs in Ecuador, gigs in Nicaragua, Honduras, Chile and my Colombia. I`m closing some releases in some important labels i like them. Will be a good close of the year and a nice start of 2020. Favourite food and place to hangout? My favorite food is the Sancocho, a typical food in Colombia , it`s a type of soup and a place could be the cerro de cristo rey, It is a place where you can observe the entire city of Cali, ideal to hang out and disconnect a little.

JHOLEYSON

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm currently based in London, where I live in close proximity to some really exciting spaces and music venues. There is so much music happening here it'd be hard to explain a general scene and list everything, but there's definitely a commitment to DIY and people are keen to make stuff happen. How did you first start making music? As soon as I had access to a computer I tried to make music. I remember finding an old educational copy of Logic express at school and trying to conjure beats and writing melodies on the computer keyboard. Frustratingly, my mums computer never had enough RAM to make a clean bounce of the tracks so sadly I'll never be able to reflect upon these compositions ! You recently released Cellex Lobe EP on Bass Agenda, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this EP? Since the EP was written as a dedication to a friend, I had a pretty clear idea of the sound before getting to work. I knew I wanted to reflect upon some of the experiences I’d had at the Electric Sweat nights and I wanted to draw upon the composition of Nacho's djing and bring it into the tracks. These parties would usually be a sturdy 9/10 hours of electro, drifting from new stuff coming out of the UK and older bits from The Hague and Detroit with lots of acid in between - I guess the EP sticks to some of the formulas celebrated in these records in terms of the programming of the drums and synths. How did you go about writing the music for Cellex Lobe? I started writing the EP whilst I was living in Berlin and at a point when I was missing the music happening in London and my friends who were putting stuff on. In Berlin I conceived the first half of the EP before taking a months break from the writing. In that time friends of mine played out the tracks and I got a chance to re-evaluate some things and get a bit of feedback on the music. The other two tracks were written in an intense week whilst back in London having sold most of my synths so I could travel back to London from Berlin ! Where and when did you record/produce and who with? The EP was written alone, except when I'd ask for advice from my partner about certain sounds and things like that. I’d have my gear set up in a little room in the roof of the house and I'd usually start work on the tunes when it was still and quiet at night. What programs/instruments/equipment did you use and why? The EP features Nanozwerg heavily as its my most favourite synth ever. There a couple of tracks where Nano is doing most things. There's also lots of bits of gear I'd get hold of in swaps whilst in Berlin and just spend a day tweaking and recording with, so the actual sound sources in the tracks are from all over. My voice is also in there too mostly in vocoder form. How and why did you come to release with Bass Agenda? I've been a fan of Bass Agenda for a while and the radio show was highly important in my formative years of making electronic music. I've listened to every podcast online and was stoked when it became regular on Deep Space Radio. I really admire Andy's approach and dedication with Bass Agenda and I leaped at the chance to have my music on the label. Who are you listening to at the moment? I've not been buying many new records recently, although I've been rinsing the most recent Stilleben releases as usual. I was playing lots of early 2000's stuff on Over-X-Posure at the time of making the EP and I recently got hold of some of my favourite World Electric releases from Chromatix and Bolz Bolz also. I'm also pretty locked into a few really exciting people regularly putting stuff on Soundcloud. Go check out R 325 and the User 338750207 and user979318782● accounts. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I've got a couple of shows coming up in London before the new year and lots of music to finish as always. Next up is a track I've got coming out on a compilation CD on Infant Tree and I'm also tweaking a split with Kalli on his Permanent Repetitive Language label which I’m really excited for. Links Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/setrus__/ Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/user-901478232

Setrus

'Why so goddamn sorry?' It is the question that swirls throughout the new single from Melbourne’s All The Colours. Returning off the back of the release of the ballsy ‘Tear It Down’ single earlier this year, the trio have dialled things up another notch in bringing thundering rhythms together with heavy, rich guitars and vocals. A wake up call and a refreshing hit of rock, All The Colours are back and ready to take on the last months of 2019. Like ‘Tear It Down’, All The Colours recorded their latest out in LA, posting up at Vox Studios in Hollywood and working with noted engineers Cian Riordan (Mini Mansions, The Wombats) and Joe LaPorta (David Bowie, The Killers) on mixing and mastering. The sound of the single itself has that classic Weezer-esque sound, mixed in with the swag of Queens of the Stone Age and flair of The Killers. Vocals weave in and out hypnotically over the top of almost four minutes of precisely arranged rock music, percussion crashing on over great riffs and bass. “‘Why So Sorry?’ is a song to turn to when things become too much, when anxiety manages to bash you down or love just hurts too much. It’s a cry that we hear everyday, it’s not a genuine question, it’s more a threat. The question is powerful, yet is usually used with mock concern. Most of the time, people could deal if they felt it was ok to be miserable. Maybe we all need a little forgiveness. This song is a reminder, the question, why so sorry? Sometimes won’t have an answer, and that’s okay too.” ALL THE COLOURS   PRAISE FOR ALL THE COLOURS “Your voice is positively dripping in salty sludge, especially in the verses.” Triple J Unearthed, Tommy Faith “Punchy guitars and furious drum sections come together perfectly. Hearing some of the fury and fire of Royal Blood bleeding through.” Triple J, Declan Byrne “Echoing the classic 90’s loud-soft-loud structure made famous by Nirvana (who borrowed it from The Pixies), the group sway between melancholic verses and headbanging choruses with ease.” Life Without Andy “The Melbourne trio’s penchant for injecting moody, rich textures into classic garage alt-rock is as vital as ever…” The AU Review   Hitting the road with ‘Why So Sorry’ this October and November, All The Colours are rolling out another trio of hectic live dates in both Melbourne and Sydney. Primed for a huge 2020, these last few months of 2019 are going to be bright for the rockers as ‘Why So Sorry’ finally sees the light. ALL THE COLOURS ‘WHY SO SORRY’ TOUR DATES   Saturday, October 5th Globe Alley Melbourne  with Bleach, MEZM3R Event Saturday, October 12th Frankie’s Sydney Event Friday, November 8th Globe Alley Melbourne Event   ‘Why So Sorry’ is released Friday, September 20th Facebook | Instagram |Twitter | Triple J Unearthed | YouTube

All The Colours

 Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Hey guys, thanks for chatting to me! I am based in Portsmouth in the UK, which is by the coast, south of London for those that don’t know! The music scene there over all is good, but it’s still very early days for electronic music. There are a couple of festivals a year and some good venues in the city, but these are geared more towards bands and live music. How did you first start playing music?  I went to Slinky in Bournemouth (The Opera House) and I loved it. It was quite an impulsive move, as I went out and got a loan and bought some decks after that, along with the whole speaker set up. Off I went and started to teach myself. Dream venue to play and why? Hmmm I would have to say Privilege in Ibiza, as I remember the first time I walked in there and was just stunned by the sheer size of the place. It was amazing and quite overwhelming if you have never seen a super club like that before. The DJ booth was actually over a pool when I went the first time – but I know that's changed now. Your 3rd EP ‘Kiss’ is coming out on Alan Fitzpatricks label We Are The Brave on the 18th of October, what influenced the sound and song writing for this EP? Well, I think that I have somewhat my own sound, I’m trying to achieve a dirty subby bassy vibe and the rest just sort of happened whilst making the tracks. So to be honest, nothing specific really influenced me when making this EP, and I didn't have anything in mind, sometimes that's the best way to make a track I think. Of course, with the help of a close friend and a talented engineer (Reset Robot) – the EP was done! How did you go about writing the music for the EP? I always start out with a few tracks which I really like and have something about them which caught my ear. I pick things from them, and also write notes when I am out and about as that's often when more ideas come into my head, and then I get back into the studio and work with them.  Where and when did you record/produce? With this next EP ‘Kiss’ I did this a few months back in Reset Robots studio. He is a friend and also a local Portsmouth lad too, with an insane studio. Thanks Dave! What programs/equipment did you use to record/produce? For this EP, I used Reason and Sub 37. You're juggling family life/normal job whilst working on breaking the scene, how do you manage all of these responsibilities and what do you find most rewarding and challenging? Try and get a good balance of both is the key, but also, I am trying to make music my full-time career and I guess at the stage that I am, everyone has to have a normal job to be able to make ends meet. It’s not easy, and the industry is very hard to break, so a lot do not have a choice, but to make juggling family, travel and studio time work. We all have to start somewhere, but playing shows leaves me that incredible feeling and pays off all that hard work and dedication. What drives you to do what you do? Passion for music is always number 1 for me, followed by the people. Whether that's industry people, who I have been fortunate to meet some amazing friend’s over the years, but also the crowd – all those people who buy your music and pay to come and see you play. Seeing all sorts of people united having a god time is magical. What advice would you give to artists who are trying to get shows and make a career in the music industry?  Don’t rush and have A LOT of patience. I’ve actually been doing music for over 16 years now….. Who are you listening to at the moment? Absolute 80’s. What do you like to do away from music? I like to stay fit or try to at least! I love tennis and golf. Also I have kids, so watching them play football and spending time with my family and friends is priceless. I have a few mates who all love to go fishing too, so I have started to go and really enjoy it, it’s quite an escape and calming! What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?   Got few We Are The Brave showcases coming up and I have a collab coming out in December with 3 other tracks. But more to come on that towards the end of the year! Favourite food and place to hangout in your hometown? Ohhhh I’d have to say Shorties restaurant, really nice steak house. A.S.H’s EP ‘Kiss’ is out this Friday on We Are The Brave: https://WeAreTheBrave.lnk.to/Kiss https://www.shortiesrestaurant.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ashwatb/ https://www.instagram.com/a.s.h_turner/ https://soundcloud.com/this_is_ash

A.S.H

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm currently living in Tel Aviv, my hometown. The music scene here is very interesting, quite a lot is happening, lots of artists from Tel Aviv are working very well outside of Israel at the moment, huge amount of the hottest names in the international scene are coming to play here. Tel Aviv has a special blend of people and you can feel it in the music that's coming out of the city.  How did you first start playing and producing electronic music? I got into music many years ago, was working with few known singers and produced few of the most successful albums in the Israeli music and radio stations during the '90s,  then during '2000s I had my own projects, in the beginning, I had a Dub/Reggae project, I travelled with this project around the world till I moved to Australia for 2 years cause the project went well there. later on, I came back to Tel Aviv and decided to combine the Turkish roots of my family with my music and opened the Laroz Desert Groove project, I got myself a sampler during the work on this project and got in loved with it.  Since that moment I am working on electronic music every single day for almost 10 years.  What's been happening recently? I just released my music on Diynamic Records, and during the last year I am playing abroad much more than before so I am really happy about it.  What new music do you have on the way? I have a few tracks that coming out soon, can't reveal everything yet, but next week my track Shanal Matar is going to be out on Magnetic Moon by Rob Garza from Thievery Corporation, also very soon my track with Yost Koen (Innervisions, Watergate) that already getting great feedbacks will be out on Eleatics Records.   How do you approach your music writing process? Usually, I have a melody in my head that I just want to put out, then I am excited from the creation during the process while I hear the melody that was in my head through my monitors.  What influences your sound and songwriting? I am influenced mostly from old school music, mostly '90s music such as Prodigy, old school tribal house and many more.  How do you approach producing? I am waking up, sitting in front of the computer, opens the software and then everything starts to happen, I am producing music for so many years so it's my internal operating mechanism.   What programs/instruments/equipment do you like to work with and why? I am working with Cubase for many years, I have lots of experience with it so I am doing everything in a fast and easy way for me. On the other hand on my live shows, I am using Ableton.  How do you prepare for live shows and what do you most enjoy about playing live? Usually, 80% of my sets are my tracks so I am just listening to music that I like and think which tracks can complete the package of my set in the best way.  I am enjoying the most in playing live from seeing the faces of the people while they are getting excited and enjoying my music, that was exactly my main intention when I created it in the studio.  What do find most challenging and rewarding whilst on tour? Of course, the lack of sleep hours, but also being only with new people most of your weekends, but in the same breath I have to say that meeting new people and to see new places is the most fun part also.  What do you like to do away from music? Family, doing some sport and most of course travelling.  Who are you listening to at the moment? There are many things that I really like from many genres, I have a strong attraction to World Music, but if you asking about the electronic side the artists that I hear the most lately are Super Flu, JOBE and Sobek.  You've recently signed to MFM Booking Agency, how did this come about? Harald sent me an email and suggested me to join the family, I did some checkups with promoters, producers and friends, I got great comments and reviews from everyone so I discussed it with my manager that already knew Harald and we thought it would be a great idea. We just started working together so I am really looking forward and already waiting for lots of fun and travells.  https://www.facebook.com/LarozCamelRider/

Laroz

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Im based in Odessa, Ukraine. There are some good clubs and places which bring great artists today, such as Solomun, Lehar, HOSH, Who Made Who, e.t.c. I think such scene is rising fast here now. How did you first start playing music?  I was 15 when father bought me my first guitar :) But i took music production seriously only since one year ago, as i’ve made home studio. What's been happening recently?  Im producing music a lot now, sometimes playing in local places, hanging out with friends. Your EP Cabora is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this EP?  I like to design sounds in different plugins, and they inspire me to create melodies that fit to them. Thats how Cabora EP was written. How did you go about writing Cabora?  I was inspired by melodic house and techno, indie house cultures, and wanted to try to do something new from myself. Where and when did you record/produce and who with?  Half year ago by myself :) What programs/equipment did you use?  FL studio, and midi keyboard. What do you have planned for Cabora?  Don’t understand this question :/Explain please what do u mean. How do you prepare for live shows?  I look up for tracks that fits to my own music, and rehearse a lot. What do you find most rewarding and challenging when on tour and playing live?  to feel an audience and lead their mood. Who are you listening to at the moment?  A listen a lot of different music, not only dance, but punk and hip hop too. Starting from like Adana Twins and ending up with Yung Lean or Misfits. What do you like to do away from music?  Spend time with friends and family, also i like snowboarding a lot. You recently signed with MFM Booking Agency, how did this come about?  I had few requests to play, but didn’t know how to deal with them. And in the same time Harald wrote me about his agency and i agreed with his proposal to help me with this requests. How has your experience been with MFM Booking Agency so far?  I think its nice and fast :) What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?  Making more music. Favourite food and place to hangout? Favorite food is pizza i guess :) a places with a good view are my favorite: seaside or mountains. https://www.facebook.com/AngelovArtis

Angelov

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?   I am based in Casablanca,Morocco.  I don't think we can talk about a "scene" for the moment, but we really have some interesting things happening around and also some really talented peeps.   How did you first start playing music?   I started music at very young age, maybe when I was 15/16 yo, I used to throw parties with friends in high school where I DJ, and at that time already I have known that music is what I wanna do in life. I started getting in touch with people in the business and then I have started learning things about music seriously and getting bigger and bigger.   What's been happening recently?   A lot of things actually, i have been traveling a lot this summer, I played in Greece, Spain, France.. and whenever I had a moment i would go to the studio and finalize my projects.   Not too long ago you released your single NGINGUMZULU, who or what influenced the sound and songwriting for this single?   The track is kind of a "Nervous" afro tribal house with an electronic twist. There is no specific influence, but it is absolutely a mix of all styles I like.    Did you work with anybody else on NGINGUMZULU? If so, what role did they play and how did they come to work with you on this single?   Yes, the track is with a collaboration with south african singer "Viiiictor May".  I have found out a super nice track from him accidentally on Spotify and really loved his vibe. I contacted him straight and then we decided to work on this project directly. Im so happy about the results because he really added a super powerful touch into it.   How has the response been from fans/industry for the NGINGUMZULU single?   The response is really nice, the track is supported by some of the greatests in the game now like Pablo Fierro,Rocco Rodamaal,Themba,Hyenah to name few. And it is actually #20 on the Traxsource Afro House Chart.   How do you usually go about writing music?   I really have no specific process, I just follow my feelings and go with the flow.   Where and when did you record/produce?   I produced the track in my small home studio in Casablanca, the vocals were recorded in South Africa.   What programs/instruments do you use to write/record/produce?   I am mainly on Fruity Loops 20.   Who are you listening to at the moment?   I am listening to many artists, and differant styles. But Im really into Vince Watson’s new album "DnA" It’s a masterpiece!!!   What do you like to do away from music?   More Music.   You've recently signed with MFM Booking, how did you come to partner with MFM Booking?   I have been contacted by Harald who is MFM’s boss who showed interest in having me and I said YES with no hesitation because ain’t nothing but a pleasure to belong to such a Roster and work with such an agency.   How has the experience with MFM Booking been so far?   It is really nice, we are moving step by step, discussing very often with team to make sure everything is on the right way.   What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?   I have many planned releases with some well respected labels. Also confirming many gigs all around. So get ready to catch me soon in your city.   Favourite food and place to hangout?   Favourite food is absolutely the moroccan one! I like greek food as well especially Souvlaki and Tzatziki. My favourite place to hangout is my studio.

Cee ElAssaad

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like? I recently moved to Nashville and started performing on the Songbird Tour Bus here as a singer-songwriter. We play our original songs while we tour around Music Row, sharing secrets and history. It’s just such a great opportunity and I’m fortunate to play with Emmy Award-winning artists like Trey Bruce. Living in Nashville is a dream come true! The talent in this city is crazy. I’ve learned so much just from watching amazing artists that when I recently returned home to Canada for some shows, many people were surprised with how much my performing has changed.   How did you first start playing music? My mom tells the story that when I was 18 months old, I was standing in my crib singing “Nobody Knows The Trouble I’ve Seen” by Patsy Cline. The song was on a tape of nursery rhymes and I had picked it that way. By the time I was in Kindergarten, I had already taken cello and violin lessons. Towards the end of elementary school, I started a band with some friends.  I later attended a school of the arts in high school and just finished a degree in music this year from Carleton University in the Singer Songwriter stream. What's been happening recently? My new single “Driving In the Dark” was released digitally in August and went to Canadian radio on September 30th! In addition to that, I did a show in Calgary during Canadian Music Week as part of the Diamonds in the Rough series and I’m participating in the Wild West Songwriters Festival in South Dakota before going back to Canada for single release shows in Ottawa on October 19th and Toronto on October 25th! Your new single 'Driving In The Dark' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? This song is meant to be a high energy, feel good song that is great to listen to while driving. The idea emerged on the way to Nashville with my twin brother, Thomas. We were making the very long drive from Ottawa to Nashville – it’s about 17 hours – and while Thomas drove me, he talked about his love of driving – not only at night, but all the way into the sunrise. That adventure became the inspiration for the song. How did you go about writing Driving In The Dark? By the time we got to Nashville, I took the melody and hook that I had come up with over to Jason Matthews and Phil Barton, an acclaimed Australian songwriter who now lives in Nashville. We explored it together and it was such a fun writing experience! We were finished in 3 hours. From there, Phil and I created a work tape at his studio. How do you usually write music? One thing I do is keep a running record in my notes on my phone of hook ideas. Ideas come from everywhere! Conversations, movies, news, and experiences. If I’m writing alone, I need a spot that is quiet with a solid chunk of time set aside. Sometimes there’s a lot of noise outside my apartment, so I will go into my walk-in closet and sit on the floor with my guitar. I usually start with the melody first, then the lyrics. I take my time. I try to go deep and try to have twists or plays on words if I can. If I’m struggling, I’ll take an idea into a co-write for fresh ideas.   Where and when did you record and who with? “Driving In The Dark” was recorded in Canada by Jason Barry in Barrytone Studios. Jason is one of my favourite people. He understands me well and is patient and collaborative. I’ve recorded about four songs with Jason and it’s been great every time. How did you approach the recording? Jason had the working tape for a few weeks and then I went to his studio and we discussed the song and the instruments I wanted and then we laid down the vocals. Jason took it from there and worked his magic like he always does! What programs/instruments did you use? For instruments, we used lead guitar, rhythm guitar, base, drums, piano, violin, cello and shakers. Jason has great mics in his studio for different voices and did a great job with the harmonies.   What did you find most rewarding and challenging during the creation of “Driving In The Dark”? Writing with Phil and Jason and having it produced by Jason Barry was the most rewarding. I feel really fortunate to have these people believe in my music. The most challenging was waiting. Waiting to hear the produced song and waiting for it to be released!   What does the single Driving In The Dark mean to you? The song means a lot to me. I’m really proud of it and grateful to the people who made it possible. Releasing it to streaming platforms and having it added to the “Down Home Country” playlist on Spotify has been really exciting, as have our early plays on radio!  You also have an amazing film clip to accompany the single, where and when did you film and who with? Thank you! The music video was all filmed within three miles of my house in Smiths Falls, Canada.  I was going to film it in Ottawa or in Nashville but we realized we had everything so close to home. My good friend Matt Martin acted in the video, Jesus Fuentes filmed it around the beach, the Rideau Ferry Bridge, and captured the lakeside sunset. It was a lot of fun filming and of course, renting the convertible Mustang was a riot. It was hard to return the car the next day! How did the concept for the video come about? We didn’t want to dwell on the elements of the song that deal with not seeing the difficult times that can lie ahead when you are in love. Instead, we kept things fun and wanted to capture the energy of the feelings of early love and leave people feeling happy. Please describe the filming experience: Filming was a lot of fun. We really worked with the sun and the timing was complicated. We wanted to use the golden hour lighting and then wanted to catch the sunset over the lake all in one night. We knew it would be hard to shoot the sunset and it was. We started running out of time and I became a silhouette which I didn’t want but it actually turned out kind of cool. During the road, shot the filmmaker was actually standing up with his head through the sunroof of a jeep to catch the shot. What do you like to do away from music? I’m trying to get better at cooking. It’s a bit of a slow process but I’d like to think I’m getting better. I also don’t love it but I’m hoping I will the more I do it! I have some dates set with my nan in October and she’s going to help me make butterscotch pies. My latest endeavour at baking was marshmallow peanut butter scotch squares and they’re to die for. Aside from music, I also love to work out. I switch back and forth from running to weights or the mat. Whenever I get too stuck in my head, it’s the easiest thing to do and I feel so much better after.   Who are you listening to at the moment? I’m currently listening to Caitlyn Smith, Ingrid Andress, Tim McGraw, Alec Benjamin, and Maggie Rogers!   Right now I’m really enjoying…. Writing every day in Nashville! What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I’m looking forward to October shows and then in 2020, I’ll be working on my EP which I plan to release in the summer next year. Any secrets that you care to share? Can’t say. Then they wouldn’t be secrets! Favourite food and place to hangout? In Nashville, I love to hang out at Winners and Losers or Geist! When it comes to food, I like Adele’s or City House in Nashville.

Amanda Jordan

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based in Berlin, and the scene here is, well, Berlin ha ha. There’s something for everyone here, but definitely lots of techno. It is very cool though to go out and be able to hear music all across the spectrum (ambient to deep house to techno for instance) without travelling too for and for a reasonable price, or for free. How and why did you first start playing music? I got into music at a super young age, singing and playing the piano. Then later my dad introduced me to classic rock in my early teens - that’s when I started playing guitar. I then got into electronic music from all my favourite skiing and snowboard films, and during my late teens one of my best friends introduced me to dj’ing.  How would you describe your sound in 3 words? Contemporary, dynamic, stimulating. What did you go before you were a DJ, and do you do this full time? I was a bartender in Toronto for a few years. I enjoyed it actually, it was fun to talk to people all the time and it taught me some good work ethics. You recently released an EP alongside Drumcode mainstay Bart Skills, how did this collaboration come about? Bart and I become good friends over the last couple years and I always send him my new stuff and ideas when I finish them. There were a couple ideas that stuck out that he really liked, so we combined forces, and after a lot of back and forth ‘Polarize’ and ‘Lost On You’ came about. EP: https://soundcloud.com/iamweska/sets/bart-skils-weska-polarize How did you and Bart decide on how the EP should be produced and sounds that you wanted to create together? Bart’s a great guy so the EP went really smooth. We had all the ideas very quick, it was just how we were going to arrange them and mix them. We spent a lot of time on that, as I believe it’s one of the most important components of the track. Regarding the actual musical ideas in ‘Polarize’, I had this hook that Bart loved and really thought he could contribute to, so I sent him the parts and we went from there. We’re both super happy with the way it came out. For ‘Lost On You’, we combined our grooves and baselines to get the intro and the track fell into place after that. We thought the track was done but Bart dug up the eerie prominent vocal and dropped it over top which really kicked the track up a notch. He sent it back to me to do some FX stuff with certain words, I had a lot of fun doing that. Where did you record/produce? Was this done together, or remotely? I had some ideas and Bart had some ideas, so we swapped back and forth for a bit and then ended up finishing the ep in his home studio in Amsterdam. What programs/instruments did you use to write and record this EP? We both use Apple Logic Pro so it made working on the project super easy. As for the synths, I love using uHe Diva and Xfer Serum, they’re my go to favourite synths digital synths at the moment. Where did you mix and master and who with? Bart and I did the mixing together, and then towards the end of the project Bart did some final tweaks and ran it through his outboard mixing bus. Regarding the masters, we chose my master for ‘Lost On You’ and Beau’s master from Ten-Eight-Seven for ‘Polarize’. What did you find most rewarding and challenging whilst creating this EP with Bart? To be honest, this project went very smoothly. Bart is a super chill guy and we get along really well, so we didn’t really disagree with anything. What I really enjoyed and learned a lot from was how Bart took some ideas I had and flipped them in his own way, and a way I didn’t see they could be used, like with the synths in polarize for example. They’re not drastically different from how they originally sounded but the groove placement and arrangement made all the difference in the end. This is what I find extremely valuable when working with Bart, who’s got 20+ years of producing under his belt: learning how to arrange and see ideas from a different perspective. You travel a lot between Toronto and Berlin, how do the influences of both cities contribute to your music and life? I will never forget the upbringing Toronto gave me and the opportunities I got when growing up there. I got to open for a lot of different people which allowed me to introduce myself to a lot of different people in the scene. North America is a bit behind Europe in terms of techno popularity and acceptance, so moving to Berlin really allowed me to experiment more with different sounds and venture a outside of my comfort zone when djing. Toronto has a really great and tight nit scene though, full of heads and music lovers alike, and the crowd really knows their music. I get so excited every time I get to play in my hometown. What do you like to do away from music? Skateboard, ride my bike, cook, work out, play frisbee, camp / be outside or in nature. And sometimes I like to play Fortnite. Who are you listening to at the moment?  Lake People, Cut Copy, Tame Impala, Dreamville, Tiga, Allah-Las, Peter Schilling What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Some secrets and more releases which you’ll find out about soon ;) https://www.facebook.com/iamweska/ https://soundcloud.com/iamweska https://www.instagram.com/iamweska

Weska

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We’re from Sydney’s Northern Beaches. There is a small scene – 3 or 4 decent venues and generally the same suspects on rotation. It’s nice and tight knit, everyone knows everyone, which I like. But outside of that, not much happens until you get into the city. How did you first start playing music? I grew up around it. My parents were both fairly musical and my two eldest siblings played guitar – looking up to them definitely played a big role. There was always an acoustic lying around the house. I used to play that all the time, but I was too small to reach over and play properly, so when I was 4 or 5 my parents got me a little nylon string and I just taught myself on that. What’s been happening recently? We’ve been fairly quiet since our tour at the beginning of the year. Most of the time since then has been spent pre-producing, recording and mixing the new songs. Your new single ‘Too Much’ is out 4th October, what influenced the sound and songwriting? There wasn’t any specific influence or goal in mind with the sound of the song, at least in the writing process. The chorus just popped into my head one day and it all got built around that. A lot of the overall tone of the song definitely came from the guitar intro, which was one of the first parts that was written. Where and when did you record/produce? We recorded the instrumentation at Housefox Studios in Brookvale, which is our local, across three days – May 3, 4 & 5. We finished up some overdubs and vocals at our little home studio over the following weeks and we only finished mixing in August though. We did seven songs. Who did you work with during the creation of Too Much? Lachlan West. The man, the myth, the legend. He plays drums for a band called ‘The Vines’ who we all grew up loving. We’ve recorded all our stuff with him – he has such a specific vision every time, which is always on the money. He understands what we’re doing better than we do ourselves, so it always feels really safe to start a new project, knowing we’re going to get a good result.       What do you have planned for Too Much? We have a Sydney launch show at Frankies Pizza on October 9th. We’ll be doing a few interstate shows early next year and will have a new single ready by then too. Who are you listening to at the moment? I try to mix it up all the time but “New Songs For Old Problems”, the Middle Kids album, has been getting a fair go in the car recently. I’ve also had “All The Small Things” stuck in my head for about a week now, for some reason. I never really listened to Blink 182.. What do you like to do away from music? Just spending time with my better half – Jessy. I’m so lazy when it comes to pretty much anything not involving music or her, so there’s not heaps going on at the moment haha. How do you prepare for live performances and what do you most enjoy about performing? There isn’t really any particular thing any of us do before a show. Having a jam, or watching other bands play beforehand, are always good ways to get hyped up. The best thing is to just see that people are enjoying the music and having a good time.   What do you have planned for the rest of 2019 going into 2020? Back this single hard. Play some shows. Get festive. Move house. Play more shows. Any secrets that you care to share? Nup. Favourite food and place to hangout? We used to get salads from banana blossom after almost every rehearsal, but we ate too many and got sick of them. I’d still have to say, collectively, that is our favourite food though – Tokyo classic. Favourite place to hang out is the studio.

Inklines

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like? We are based in the northern suburbs of Melbourne and we think the music scene is incredible! There are gigs on anywhere and everywhere. It's this incredible melting pot of different styles, genres and sounds. How did GraceJean form? We were introduced by Fiona's partner at University, and after having a play and writing a song or two together (these said songs may have been about pizza, but no one can confirm), we recognised that there was a special musical understanding. And from this GraceJean and a pretty beautiful friendship was formed. What's been happening recently? SO glad you asked. We have been busy getting ready for our album launch on Saturday the 5th of October at the Thornbury Theatre, arranging violin and cellos, trying on sparkly costumes and practicing our banter. Fiona has some solid tales about her cat ready, and Ailsa is poised to deliver her best dance moves. Your new album 'Long Black Road' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? This album is a musical time capsule for the first two years of our songwriting, so thats a pretty big question for us. I guess a big thing that shaped our music at this point in time was taking the songs we wrote in our living rooms and performing them, seeing how they sat with the audience and what effect they had, and if that effected was the one we wanted to create. Celebrating if it was, changing or scrapping a song if it wasn’t . Alongside the experience gained from playing we also listened to a lot of music, and often (and still do) shared bands we like with each other or head out to see gigs together. As we said before, the Melbourne music scene is a bustling riot of all different kinds of diverse music so that’s been awesome to live amongst and has definitely influenced us. Specific artists like like Wallis Bird, Oh Pep, The Staves, The Gloaming, Joseph, Haim, The Maes and the Paper Kites were all bands we were listening to and taking inspiration from over this time period as well. How did you go about writing the music? We sometimes write parts of the songs by ourselves and then bring that in to develop together, but as we’ve grown the trust in the duo, we more and more find ourselves writing the whole songs together- someone bringing in a concept and then both of us map out the chords, lyrics and melody, usually getting the majority of the song done in one sitting. After that we might let it sit for a bit and refine it through testing it at gigs or listening to a recording we’ve made- analysing it to see if we can make any improvements. Ahah, that parts a bit arduous but really satisfying, when at the end of it, the puzzle pieces click into place and we have a finished song. Where and when did you record? We recorded in two lots. The majority of the album was recorded September 2018 at Newmarket studio. We then, early in 2019 decided that the album simply must have drums. So we went back in to Newmarket and did retrospective drums which is just as fun and carefree as it sounds ahah, but our drummer, Sean Newell, did such a brilliant job with it so it all worked out. What programs/instruments did you use? We keep things really acoustic at the GraceJean headquarters. We like acoustic steel string guitars, electric bass, voices, banjo, mandolin and drums all dosed in a healthy coating of reverb. Who did you work with during the recording, production and mastering process? We worked mainly with the brilliant Anna Laverty, who did the bulk engineering for this album and coaxed us through the recording. She also did all the mixing for the album and we were stoked with the way she listened and understood the sound we were going for. For engineering and recording the drums Guus Hoevenaars was superb and mastering was masterfully handled by Joe Carra at Crystal Mastering. What influenced the songwriting for your new single 'Turn Away' and what does this single mean to you? Turn Away is a love song and our favourite opener for a set. We wanted a song to get the audience excited for what was to come and so we’re influenced by that desire, to make something loud and fun and exciting. What do you like to do away from music? Spending time with our friends and significant others, getting our into nature, reading, listening to other peoples music, taking photos, watching movies, having a causal existential crisis. You know, the usual 20 something hobbies. Who are you listening to at the moment? Oh Pep! and the Mae's recent albums are certified bangers, and right up our alleyways in terms of style of musical musings. We've also had the Staves Album "Dead, Born and Grown" on repeat for the last two years, as well as the self titled album by the Irish Band 'The Gloaming. You have a tour coming up and an album launch this weekend 5th October at the Thornbury Theatre in Melbourne, what do you have planned for this show and the upcoming tour? As previously mentioned there will be sparkles, but there will also be heartfelt songwriting, intricate melody lines, delightful storytelling and possibly tales of well loved cats names Hazel. Whats really cool about the show at the Thornbury Theatre, is that it's going to be with the full extended line up which includes violin, cello, drums and bass. The theatre itself is gorgeous and the whole thing is going to be filmed. The tour is also really exciting for us as we'll be making appearances at Queensclif Festival, Tablelands Folk Festival and Happy Wanderer. How do you prepare for each live show? A barbaric sacrifice of tea and cookies. And a fair few strange sounding vocal warm ups. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? We’re heading on a regional tour of Victoria after the album launch, playing at Queenscliff festival, Happy Wander, Tablelands Folk Festival (QLD) and then continuing with an easy coast tour in January 2020. We also have plans to head back into the recording studio in 2020, which we are excited about. Favourite food and place to hangout? Hot Chips, CERES https://gracejeanmusic.com/

GraceJean

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?  We live in Milan, Italy. Fortunately this city is growing day by day and event and music scene are one of the main character of it. Huge venue, small reality, clubs, underground, rap, techno, live, dj set, everything lives here.  How did you first start playing music together?  We just wanted to mix our own style to make some club banger and have fun making it and playing outside as well. We already did some tracks together but this project is like the real begin.  Please tell us about the relationship between the two of you, Phasz being  the rapper and the music coming from Distorted Drill:  We produced, edited, developed and mixed all the tracks together, and that was the easiest part. We just started producing focused only with instrumentals and after first vocals on Acid Jungle we decided to use Phasz vox for all the project, with an entire verse for Booyaka Booyaka, first single.  How did you two first meet?  We met in Milan, we were studying Audio Engineering together, same classroom.  How did you both first starting being involved in music?  P: Listening good music all my life thanks to my sisters, later I started with a rap group in Alghero, I discovered the fantastic world of beatmaking and I decided to study Audio Engineering and take it more serious. Party and DJ set in summer of course. DD: First experience where I felt in love with Electronic was with hardcore music, going to rave party and Dutch events, than I extended my interest in techno and electro. I started studying music production and then Audio Engineering to refine my productions.  What's been happening recently?  We make beats under the name Bamboo, we have already some ready project and producing constantly after summer break. We will love to started with live performance with this project so keep going and working everyday.  What influences your sound and songwriting?  Life, desires, thought, feelings, everything is human, inspirations is everywhere that’s why we can’t stay only in one music genre.  How do you go about writing music?  It’s like gym, more you train it better grown, but right lyrics always come in a second.  What programs/instruments do you use?  Our DAW is Ableton, for sure, than we love to use lot of gear, pretty cool stuff like eurorack modular, analog synths, keys, pedal, and still looking to take more.  What influences your lyrcis and melody?  We use to listen all genres, Phasz lot of female voices, R&B and classic Hip Hop, something more chill, Distorted Drill all genres too, more acid techno, dark beat, gabber music, everything that create that good sensations of listening good music, and so trying to make it too. Italian Rap of course.  How would you describe your music?  We don’t mind to make something like “Electronic Rap” or “Acid Hip-Hop”, we love to take the element of our favorite music and mixed together to create tracks that works on the dancefloor.  Who are you listening to at the moment?  DD: Loving Assembler Code & Jensen Interceptor Ep on Mechatronica P: Top Boy Soundtrack now. For Bamboo project we are oriented to collaborate with Asian Grime scene.  What do you like to do away from music?  P: Make my own T-shirt, discover new places, art, ladies, weed, I’m a normal guy. DD: Actually my new favorite hobby is eurorack modular so not so far from music but really interested into this world now.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?  Pushing our music and let grow our audience, work work work, because unexpected moments are the coolest, and do what we love is the best way to reach.  Favourite food and place to hangout?  P: Hard to say between pizza and sushi, so burrito. Hangouts priority is with whom, not where DD: Pizza! Where there is people and music I’m good. 

Distorted Drill & Phasz

What is your name and role within No Label Necessary? My name is Thony Remy and I'm an artist and one half of No Label Necessary. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like? I'm based in Gold Coast, Creepah is in Sydney. The music scene in both cities and all round Aus has been growing stronger and stronger ever since I've been here (Originally from Brooklyn), it's dope seeing it slowly creep its way up to the forefront.  How did you first start playing music? I started rapping at around 16. My friends and I back in Brooklyn started a group called "Bombsquad". That only lasted a few months as i headed out of the country for uni. How did No Label Necessary form? After a show in Sydney I was with a few artists sharing ideas at a kebab shop. Everything just felt right and we started with a group of 7 artists. After a little while it eventually led to 4 artists in the group du, then to two and we've been riding ever since. What's been happening recently? We've been working on the release of our debut E.P "MIDN9T X" and for all our plans in 2020. What influenced the sound and songwriting for your single Boss It Up? I was inspired by the beat at first. Then hearing Creepah's intro gave me goosebumps. I really wanted to do something special to it. Around that time frame I was playing a lot of Joyner Lucas, Eminem and Tory Lanez for inspiration. How did you go about writing Boss It Up? After playing around with the beat and freestyling a few things I found my rhythm. It was all magic after that. Where and when did you record? We recorded our whole MIDN9T X E.P in Sydney with MixedbyEspa a few months back. What programs/instruments did you use and who did you work with? We mostly use Protools for everything we do. You have a video coming out for Boss It Up on the 3rd of October, I hear that you collaborated with iiiConic to produce the video, how did the collab come about? The collab came out great. IiiConic was super easy to work with, once we knew what we wanted it was a green light from there. Please tell us about the video production and how the concept came about? We definitely wanted to do something different from the norm. We wanted to make it like an event or almost like a scene from a movie. After a little look around we were hugely inspired by the Mad Max theme and thought it would be nuts to shoot something in that category. Once we had the concept we hit up team member and videographer Kyle Watson and started the organising of cast, locations, props and everything else. What did you find most challenging and rewarding throughout the creation on the video? One of the challenges we faced was Creepah's early morning flight getting cancelled by bad weather. The next available flight was 2 hours into the shoot at night which he managed to get the last seat, so we had to do what we could to prepare and shoot what we could and prepare for a Plan B if he couldn't make it. There was over 50 people there from make up artists, safety advisors, stunt people, best believe we were stressing. What do you like to do away from music? I like to work on video/film projects with the team. We do alot of skits, and short videos that we release on our Youtube. Who are you listening to at the moment? At the moment I'm listening to a group from the U.S called Francis And The Lights. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? We will be releasing our E.P before the end of the year then 2020 we will be focusing on expanding NLN as a brand. Favourite food and place to hangout? Gotta be Italian food. I love a good old fish pasta. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jC2aiCDLnmE&feature=youtu.be  https://www.facebook.com/nolabelnecessary/  https://www.instagram.com/nolabelnecessarynln1/  https://twitter.com/nlnecessary?lang=en

No Label Necessary Interview + ‘Boss It Up’ Video Premiere!

What is your name and role within Coumarin? I’m André and I’m the singer and guitarist of Coumarin. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are currently based in Stuttgart, Germany. We as a band are fairly new to the scene here so we have only been able to dip our toes into it a little bit. But in terms of going out, you won’t have any problems finding somewhere that plays your type of music. What's been happening recently? We just released our second single and video called 'Make It Right', which we are really excited about: https://youtu.be/VYp8_OmUhD0  Your new single 'Make It Right' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting? The main themes that inspired the sound and songwriting were regret and forgiveness. I always wanted to write a song about these seemingly simple but actually complex things and their interplay and find a sound and melody that could package that in a song that is not a super slow piano ballad. Where and when did you record?  We recorded the song mainly in our rehearsal space and in my bedroom over the course of this summer. What programs/instruments did you use to record? In terms of programs, we use Logic Pro X exclusively to record and mix our stuff. The instruments on the song would be pretty much the standard line up, nothing exotic there: Guitar, Bass, Drums, Synthesizers and Vocals. How did you go about writing Make It Right? The idea for the song itself is almost four years at this point, it changed a lot over the years and a lot of experiences have left their impact on the final version. Since mid 2015 I always had kind of a line out for the song, the idea for the lyrics and a part of the instrumental. A few months ago we had the version that I had known for years - already recorded and pretty much ready for mixing. One night around that time - at about 3 a.m. - I just started to play a whole new synth line along to the track that changed the entire character of the song, but in an amazing way. That synth line is what can now be heard as the main synth line in the chorus. So long story short, we recorded everything but the drums from scratch and we couldn’t be happier with it. What do you like to do away from music? I love to go to the movies or just to watch something at home when I find the time. Earlier this year me and a very good friend of mine wrote our first short film that I directed which we are currently putting the last finishing touches on - our keyboarder Pascal does the sound design on it. Who are you listening to at the moment? I can’t get away from the last War On Drugs record somehow, it’s so damn good. In terms of more recent music I was really surprised by the Brittany Howard solo album which is pretty rad. Our drummer Maksim and I share a love for Northlane who just put out an awesome album as well. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? People can expect a lot more music coming from us later this year and going throughout 2020 and beyond. We had a whole year long gap between our first single and Make It Right, which was unfortunate but necessary for us on a creative level. We are really excited looking into next year and to our future releases. Favourite food and place to hangout? We all love hamburgers, and our drummer really loves chocolate brownies. I like to hang out where good and inspiring people are. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VYp8_OmUhD0&feature=youtu.be Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coumarin_music/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coumarin Website: https://www.coumarin.org

Coumarin

What is your name and role within The Good Minus? I’m Matt and I’m a songwriter, singer and guitarist in the band.  Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We’re based in Melbourne, Australia. Melbourne has a pretty thriving music scene. Some good venues have closed down due to development but there are still lots of great places to play. How did you first start playing music? I started playing piano as a child but then switched to the guitar as a teenager because I thought it was “cooler”. I’ve always enjoyed writing songs and performing but may biggest influences as a child was probably my grandfather. He used to write and perform songs he’d to my family as a child with my grandmother accompanying him on the violin. How did The Good Minus form? We’ve been friends for a long time and played in our own separate projects. In 2015 we decided to join forces and create The Good Minus. What's been happening recently? We’ve just been fine tuning things and getting ready for our album launch gig on October the 11th. We filmed a video clip for our song, Mechanical Shark which was at an old ruin about two hours out of Melbourne. That was a really fun experience. You have album coming out on the 27th of September, what influenced the sound and songwriting? We’ve all got very eclectic tastes in music. I think our sound draws from everything we like but hopefully doesn’t sound too derivative of one artist in particular. We basically enjoy writing and performing songs that excite us.  Where and when did you record and who did you work with? We recorded the songs in two main batches. They were recorded at Tender Trap Studios in Melbourne and David Kean our bass player recorded and engineered all our songs and mixed most of the tracks. Greg J Walker (Machine Translations) mixed I’ll Decide For You and Rohan Sforcina (Head Gap Studios) mixed Blood Brothers, Shadow Love and Catch Us Up. Alan Douches of West West Side Music (NY) mastered the album. What programs/instruments did you use to record? Our album was recorded on Pro Tools. We recorded vocals, guitars, bass, drums mainly as that’s how we perform the songs. There were some other instrument overdubs such as sleigh bells and a piano accordion too.  How did you approach the recording process? We recorded the songs playing together live and then overdubbed the vocals, harmonies and extra guitars or parts that needed to be tweaked etc. For Mechanical Shark we also sang around one mic for the choruses to give it a really full sound.  How did you go about writing the music? Most of the songs we workshop and jam on together to get them to their final structure. I (Matt) often bring in ideas or half songs that we work on. Stu wrote the main riff for Lovers Disguise on the guitar even though he’s mainly our drummer and David (bass) wrote Shadow Love. I think some of the best songs we have are the ones that we’ve worked on together as a group. What does this upcoming album mean to you? It’s nice to have a collection of great songs that we are proud of. They are all quite different and I think it’s a good representation of who we are and what we sound like. What do you have planned for this new album? We’re looking forward to launching it and hopefully a few different people hear it who wouldn’t have found us otherwise. Who are you listening to at the moment? We’re really liking Stella Donnelly and also Ainslie Wills’ new album. What do you like to do away from music? Hanging out and going to gigs or catching a movie.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Keep playing and writing songs. Any secrets that you care to share? The hidden track is called The Elements of Eloquence Favourite food and place to hangout? Pizza and hanging out at Kean Studios.  https://www.facebook.com/thegoodminus/

The Good Minus

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?  Madrid, it's getting better now, used to be an amazing place to party but many places have closed in recent years due to some changes in the local government and the credit crunch, luckily things are looking a bit better these days. How did you first start playing music?  Bought a pair of second-hand 1200 Technics Turntables when I was 13, didn't know much about what I was doing at the time, all I wanted was to experiment with music somehow... What's been happening recently?  Quite a lot, just got back from a small tour in the US, we are opening a new Deeplomatic Recordings office, preparing everything for the release of my EP Jungle Fever and working on the Asia Tour 2019 - 2020. Your new EP ‘Jungle Fever’ will be out on September 27, what influenced the sound and songwriting?  Wanted to create something a bit different, mixing natural and animal sounds. I used to live in Africa for 2 years and always wanted to add a bit of this African experience, but keeping the same music style. How did you go about writing the music for Jungle Fever?  Found the perfect jungle sounds, then I build the track on top of them. Where and when did you record/produce?  Various locations, but mainly in my studio in Madrid or while touring in the planes. What programs/instruments did you use?  Ableton Live, Push2, Roli seaboard, Komplete 11, OP1, TR8S, etc... What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of Jungle Fever?  Trying to match and adjust the jungle sounds with the rest was a bit of a challenge. Where and when will you be touring next?  Europe during October and November and then Asia / Australia, from December to mid February. How do you prepare for shows?  I look on the clubs social media to see who has played there before so I can get an idea of the public and what they would like. Most memorable performance and why?  Difficult to mention just one, but I'd say Colombia Burning Man 2016, it was the first time they were doing this event in Colombia, the people were really looking forward for that event, there was an incredible energy and vibe among these people, really enjoyed playing there. You're also the Deeplomatic Recordings Label Manager, how and why was Deeplomatic Recordings created?  I had been working for the Spanish Embassy for a couple of years, and was a bit tired of all the office live, even though I got to travel a lot, I wanted to do something I really liked..... guess where the name Deeplomatic comes from hahaha Please tell us a little about what you do on a day to day basis at Deeplomatic Recordings?  A bit of everything, but I’m mainly managing the label´s releases and the events and showcases at Deeplomatic. What projects do you have coming up?  Working on several things in the studio at them moment, but not planning to release anything at least till 2020. How do you decide which artists to work with?  Trying to find people that you get along with, and also have the same music criteria. What else are you working on at the moment projects/businesses?  I am also the co-owner and content manager at Hype TV (www.hypetv.es), a Spanish production company that focuses on traveling, entertainment, food, music and lifestyle. We are also about to launch a new jewellery company called Hades Creations (www.hadescreations.com). It's a brand that aims to keep age-old traditions alive by processing each jewel and metal by hand, all pieces are customizable and one of a kind. What do you like to do away from music?  I'm a technology freak, so basically anything that has to do with futuristic gadgets gets me entertained, also like to travel to strange and remote locations, like the feeling of uncertainty and getting lost. Who are you listening to at the moment?  Lately I'm listening to a lot to Marvin & Guy and Palms Trax, grrreat music! What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020?  Playing this week in Paris and Vienna, then got 2 label showcases in Spain and a festival in Ghent (Belgium), then starting the Asia tour in the beginning of December (back to summer again! haha) Favourite food and place to hangout?  Unagui (Japanese style served Eel), The Loft (current house, best place for fun & after parties) Website: www.alexferrer.eu Instagram: https://instagram.com/alexferrermusic Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexferrermusic Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/alexferrermusic Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/alexferrermusic Spotify: http://bit.ly/afspotify  Twitter: https://twitter.com/alexferrermusic Resident Advisor: https://www.residentadvisor.net/dj/alexferrer

Alex Ferrer

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I´m in berlin - considering the amount of aussies living here i assume everybody knows whats going on here ). How did you first start playing music? Like instruments? learning by doing, pressing keys). How did Lovebirds come about? It was 1999 and i had just started a house project with a friend called kneedeep when i was doing a few tracks by myself which were a bit deeper than what we did. then i decided to release 2 EPs back then and revived the name in the late 2000s when disco boogie and deep house had a comeback. What programs/instruments do you use? Since i got my new large format mixing console in january (64 channels) i have everything connected and ready to record at all times. so at the moment i am using logic almost as a tape machine - just to record all my vintage synths and drum machines & FX. i had tracks where my favourite synth is my prophet 5 which unfortunatly is broke since almost a year. good thing is it made me use my OB8 a lot more which is a beauty too. also my rhodes and my solina string ensemble are almost on every tune i make. recently bought a lot of behringer guitar pedal clones which are great fun too. What's been happening recently? I did a few remixes (winston surfshirt, sounds like franco) and had some great fun with my modded drumtraks which now holds sounds of linndrum 1 & 2 and the DMX. i´m doing a lot of 80s inspired music - but more like new wave / pop stuff. Who are you listening to at the moment? Totally in love with a track called "the hollow sound of the morning chimes". Who or what influences you sound and songwriting? I guess my mood mostly and which instrument i am sitting in front of. You're playing Grapevine Gathering this November, what do you have in store for these run of shows? A compacted 1 hour set of energetic disco influenced house music. and "in the shadows"). How do you prepare for each live show? I´m usually going through my music collection and making a playlist of what i think could go down best with a crowd of that size. Why did you decide to play Grapevine Gathering and what are you most looking forward to? Its my third time now and its been absolutely stunning each time so far - if i show people the scenes when 10.000 people sing along to "in the shadows" - i feel a bit like a rock start haha. What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019? I will spend my european winter in asia and australia completly this year. i´m taking a small music setup with me and i´m looking forward to produce and write in a new and different surrounding. Any secrets that you care to share? My new console used to be the one of a famous tv show here in germany. Favourite food and place to hangout? Ramen!!!! shinjuku ramen on russel street changed my life . that i can say. Website: https://www.watartists.com/lovebirds Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lovebirds.official/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovebirds.official/?hl=en Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/lovebirds Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4UW65n6QZ8YmanLPuUXVui

Lovebirds

How did you first start playing music? I grew up in a super musical household – my dad had a wild collection of instruments (including a harp, kalimbas and assorted flutes), and he hosted a world music radio show so he was always bringing home new records and sharing them with me. I was always singing and writing songs so my mom signed me up for music lessons when I was around 6.   You recently released your single 'Soft' what influenced the sound and songwriting? Soft is definitely the most stripped-down R&B song off my debut EP Like Moons. The rest of the tracks have a stronger electronic component, but this one was recorded with an actual piano and bass guitar. It’s also the only love song. I was feeling pretty dreamy and romantic when I wrote it and I think those sensual vibes come through.   Where and when did you record and who with? This song was recorded in Montreal with producer Jordan Esau, keyboardist Francis Arseneau, and bassist Alex Dobson. They’re all good, talented pals and I love what they brought to the track! Francis and I were in jazz choir together in high school.  What programs/instruments did you use? We recorded my vocals using Ableton and then Jordan produced the song in Logic. I’m an Ableton girl myself but I respect his software choices nonetheless. You also have a video for Soft that's coming out on the 17th of September, how did the concept for the music video come about? The director and I came up with the concept back-and-forthing over Instagram. I wanted to keep things simple and have the visuals complement the song, rather than tell a super specific narrative story. We went for a very dreamlike, hazy, vintage film aesthetic, framed in classic 4:3 aspect ratio. She suggested shooting the whole thing in slow motion to amplify that, and using gauzy fabrics both as textures and DIY filters. I played with body glitter of different shapes & sizes and pearl & diamond face stickers to add a bit of a surreal, magic vibe. Where and when did you film? On a Toronto Island beach this past August! Who did you work with? Paris-based video artist Amanda Louise Macchia shot, directed and edited the whole thing! She’s an all-star. What did you find most rewarding and challenging during the creation of the Soft video? The most rewarding part was just doing it. I’ve never made a music video before and kinda built it up to be this big mountain in my head. It felt good to realize you can pretty much make one anywhere, anytime, when you’re working with cool like-minded creative folks. The most challenging part was getting over a bunch of strangers staring at you when you’re frolikcing like a sparkily fairy around a public beach. What did you learn from the filming/editing experience? That you probably won’t use ¾ of the random props you bring to set, but it’s always better to be over-prepared. Where will we be able to see the video? The old YouTube! What do you like to do aside from music? I’m a pop culture and fashion junkie. I spend too much time on the internet keeping up with whatever is trending, and hitting up vintage pop-up sales. I enjoy all things paranormal – horror films, conspiracy theories, hanging out with fellow witches and learning about the occult. I like languages and am a part-time translator. I’m overall shit at visual arts, but I really love photography and doing photoshoots with friends. Who are you listening to at the moment? Mostly womxn artists currently...Banks, Jesse Jo Stark, Faye Webster, Lana Del Rey, Megan Thee Stallion, Rico Nasty… I’m also going through a permanent emo phase, so a lot of Taking Back Sunday and Fall Out Boy? I may have recently bought tickets to see FOB for the 4th time next summer. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I’m performing at the POP Montreal festival September 27th and then going on a mini tour, stopping in Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec, Vancouver and Victoria. I have a collab with Mouth Breather (who you’ve chatted with) coming out around Halloween and another new video this winter! Favourite place to hangout in Montreal? The Diving Bell Social Club. It’s a multimedia arts and music venue I help run with a rad group of friends. I’m not big on bars or clubs but it feels like a super safe/friendly space. We host music and drag shows, movie screenings, vintage sales, comedy nights...You should come by sometime! https://www.instagram.com/maryzemusic/ https://www.facebook.com/MaryzeMusic https://twitter.com/maryzemusic Website: https://www.maryzemusic.com Spotify: https://spoti.fi/2mlvANL 

Maryze

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? • I live in Italy in my city Caserta, near Naples. the scene here is very strong, techno music is loved by many people .... we have many important artists here and one of them is Joseph Capriati. • How did you first start playing electronic music? I approached the world of electronic music at the age of 11 thanks to my father's passion for artists like Pink Floyd, Rockets, Kraftwerk and many others ... at the age of 15 he gave me my first synth a Yamaha dx27. I inherited from him a large collection of 80s vinyls. electronic music is part of me, I love long melodies, warm bass lines and disco sound. What's been happening recently? • 2019 started out great, I did a lot of shows around the world, I visited lots of new places and met lots of nice people. I am very happy that people appreciate my music this has always been my dream You released your new single 'Neon' on September 6 2019, what influenced the sounds and songwriting for this track? • Neon is a great track, maybe my favorite track. I wanted to create this track entirely with the microkorg. Neon was born in one night in April while I was listening to an old 1989 album by Depeche Mode, in fact, it reflects their sound a lot. What programs/instruments did you use to create Neon? • I created Neon entirely with live ableton, micokorg and nord lead Where and when did you record/produce? • until 5 years ago I was producing in my room with a computer and a midi keyboard. today I finally created my studio at my house, all my music are recorded and produced in my studio How has the response been from fans? • the response of the fans was fantastic, so many important DJs support my Neon track around the world including Solomun, Magdalena and many others ... I am happy that my music manages to get so high. Neon was released on Monaberry, how did you come to release with this record label? • Monaberry was a great achievement for me and it wasn't easy. 1 year ago i had my the first release with Nativity. That i release on monaberry I have to thank my great friend CIOZ an incredible artist. 1 year ago he played my nativity track and the Super Flu fell in love with my music and after 2 weeks I was contacted to release nativity on Monaberry. I think this is the best way to get to great labels, in a very natural and stress-free way. Monaberry is a large and beautiful family and always offers quality music. Please tell about any new music that you have on the way: • I have a lot of music coming up, the next release will be released on Eklektisch (Edu Imbernon Label) the Reflected Effect EP. in 2020 there will be many surprises are coming up... Where and when are you playing/touring next? • I had so many requests for the coming months, I will be in Beirut, Moscow, Jerusalem, Malaga and many other cities. On 21st September I will play in Belluno (IT) for xtreme Festival. You're with MFM booking agency, how did you come to work with MFM and how has the experience been so far? • MFM Booking is a large agency full of great artists. Harald is my manager, he is a good person and he knows how to do his job well, he is an excellent agent. Harald has made me grow both as an artist and as a person and I hope to continue working with him in the future. I was contacted by Harald 1 year ago after my release Uzhù released on D-Floor, an ep that gave me great success and so I joined - being part of MFM booking. Who are you listening to at the moment? • I listen to a lot of old music and old artists ... my reference artists are Solomun, Adritique, Acid Pauli, Todd Terje, Prince Thomas and many others but I like to listen to so much different music also in style different to create my own sound. What do you like to do away from music? • in my life I always made music, my father run a radio show and my mom is a dance teacher. I was a dancer and then but I stopped to dance to dedicate myself completely to music. today my father and I have a villa for private events and weddings, I like the world of catering and I love cooking, riding and practical fencing for 15 years What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? • I hope to close so many shows by the end of the year and make lots of new music. in 2020 there will be many surprises, stay in touch with me ☺ Favourite food and place to hangout? I am a Neapolitan living in Naples and I love Pizza

IVAN MASA

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Montreal/Fabulous How did you first start playing music? Firas: Started playing guitar in his teenage years out of boredom. Fanny: Started playing violin in her youth. Your single “Brumaire” is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting? The main influence for ‘’Brumaire“ is the wave of French techno mixed with elements of pop led by artists like French79. Sadly, the wave hasn’t hit North America yet. You’ve created an amazing video for Brumaire, how did the concept for the video come about and what were the influences? The story behind the Brumaire video is a bit wild. A couple of months ago, I got a message on Facebook from a friend's sister, Ophélie Thiébault, studying Cinema in Paris. She explained that she liked ‘’Brumaire“ and was offering to produce a clip for the song. A couple of months later we started receiving pictures from the set, and we started understating how serious the project was. A few lines from Ophélie: ‘’The idea for the clip really came from something silly. Do you know that moment when you walk barefoot home, get into bed and your feet are full of dust because you haven't swept for a while?... Well, there you go....’’ ‘’Inspirations come mainly from French pop clips made by Alice Kong or from Antonin Peretjatko's universe with some inspirations from David Lowery's A Ghost Story for some of the shots. But the inspiration comes mainly from my relationship, from my wild conversations with my sidekick Iris (Head Operator on the clip) and especially from our personal tastes. Almost all the decoration of the clip comes from our student rooms. We couldn't find an apartment that suited us to shoot and we had to do the interior scenes in our school's studio. We both did all the preparation, which was very intense! There were a lot of unexpected events and constraints, but we could count on each other to motivate us and fortunately Beige-à-Coeur was patient and gave us the necessary time while we had our diploma to validate at the same time. I kept them waiting but they were incredibly confident despite the distance!’’ You have an EP coming out on September 16 called “Moonshine” please tell us about the creation of this EP and what you learned through the process: We started working on Moonshine last summer, before knowing that eventually all the songs would end up on an EP. Where will we be able to listen/purchase? Literally all the platforms out there. What do you like to do aside from music? Binge watch the office. Who are you listening to at the moment? Beirut and any mix of jazz and pop What’s planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Tons of sleep – eventually working on new material in the summer 2020 Favourite food and place to hangout? Bananas and park Lafontaine

Beige-a-coeur

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm currently based in Tel Aviv, the underground scene is in ever-growing development. Many of Tel Aviv artists are very successful at the moment, like Red Axes, Guy Gerber, Moscoman, Lonya, Chaim, Guy Mantzur, Khen, Jenia Tarsol, and the list goes on. How did you first start playing electronic music? I was playing Hip Hop in a club that was usually playing Deep House and Techno. I heard it over there and got addicted to it. Note to the curious - I still really like Hip Hop :) What's been happening recently? I've recently opened my new label, Frau Blau, together with my partner Omri Guetta, one of Tel Aviv most talented underground DJs. Things are progressing at a fast pace and we are very excited about everything that is happening. I am touring on a weekly base and feeling blessed about meeting many new friends around the world. You recently released your new single 'Frau Blau' with Yost Koen, how did you come to work with Yost and how was the experience? 3-4 years ago Yost and I were among a small group of producers that were creating a Tech House/Minimal so the collaboration felt right, we already wrote few tracks together and we had a great connection so we wanted to take it to other directions as well. We decided to create a Melodic Techno with tribal touch, this experience was new for both of us and it was amazing and fun for both us. Yost is very talented and a brilliant producer. What influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? We didn't have a specific influence for this one, we just had an idea to combine our mutual taste with extreme melodic-tribal spice in it. What software did you use to create 'Frau Blau' and where and when did you produce? It was around a year and a half ago, I was working on Cubase and Yost with Ableton. I've sent him the parts and he sent it back, we did some 'ping-pong' with it until we reached the final result. How has the response been from fans? Wow, that was hysterical. We got so many great comments from people who searched this tune in every possible way and asked about it in many ways till he got released. We both felt that we did something right here. Please tell about any new music that you have on the way: Lots of new music is coming soon, I can't tell you everything yet but I can say that there are few collaborations with artists that I admire like Re.You for example, remixes from Adana Twins, Musumeci, Ruede Hagelstein, Monkey Safari, releases on labels that I really love like MicroCastle, TAU and more. Also there's a compilation that I compiled together with Ivory during the last 6 month and is planned to be released soon on my label Frau Blau, That's just what I can reveal for now. Where and when are you playing/touring next? During October and November, I will play in Tel Aviv, Tallinn, Roubaix, Szczecin, Aachen, Rome, Hamburg, Berlin, London, Brunswick and more. You're with MFM Booking agency, how did you come to work with MFM and how has the experience been so far? My manager and I have heard about this agency from a few people, we got impressed by the roster and really liked Harald vibe from the first moment, it took a few months and it happened. It feels great to be there, everything is super professional and it really helped me and Moti, my manager, to feel at home. Who are you listening to at the moment? I am listening to so many different kinds of music, from Jazz, Fusion and world music of artists such as Hiroshi Suzuki and Khruangbin to electronica and house of artists like Marcus Worgull, Nandu, Jepe and many more. What do you like to do away from music? I really like cooking and of course, travelling and see nature at it's best. What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? First unique EP that will combine my style with Italo-disco and Indie-trance that will be out around January. Stay tuned! Favourite food and place to hangout? That's a hard one, I like many things but I guess the Israeli kitchen will always be my favourite. . I really like to hangout at Voodoo Bar, the vibe there is very special, If you are travelling to Tel Aviv I really recommend visiting there MFM Artist Profile • Facebook • Instagram • Soundcloud

Kadosh – Innervisions, Watergate Records / Tel Aviv, Israel

What is your name and role within the band?  My name is Dom Littrich and I smack the drums and do some back up vocals.  How did Pacific Avenue form?  Myself and Ben used to live about 100 meters apart and we always knew each other from when we were real small. Sometimes I would be banging away on the drums and In between the brief intervals of silence I could hear Ben also playing away from down the road. So It seemed like the obvious thing to do, was to link up and start jamming. Ben then recruited Jack, who was a good mate from the same local high school, to play bass and we started to jam away. Our first gigs together were under the band name ‘Tropical Wax’ with our friend Grace on lead vocals. A year or so later down the track in 2017, Ben introduced Harry Obrien to us at a jam and some serious musical fusion went down. Harry went to a different high school, however we would often bump into him in the local area at gigs and in the surf. It really felt like it clicked right from the start, and about a week later whilst having a surf at Werri Beach in Gerringong we found a name whilst staring at a nearby street sign, ‘Pacific Avenue’.  How did you first start playing music?  I was lucky enough to be born into quite a musical family. My mum and dad both sing and my dad also plays the guitar. When i was in Kindergarten I spotted a violin at a garage sale and begged mum to buy it for me. She agreed but only on the condition that I promise to get lessons and practice. Turned out I wasn’t as big of a fan of the violin as I thought i was but due to the conditions I was stuck with the instrument. Around the same time I started learning the drums, and this was a whole other story. I loved the drums from my very first lesson and it wasn’t long before i was gifted a drum kit. After some very tough years for mum, I eventually learnt how to hold a beat and i was recruited in the family band. The first band of my own was formed when i was in year 5, under the name ‘Pinstripe’ we were the regular entertainment at the school fete and talent quest. Music has always been a huge part of my life and also largely responsible for the connection to my family, which i am very grateful for.  What's been happening recently?  The most recent thing thats been happening with us is the release of our debut EP and all the stuff that goes along with that. We have been planning and preparing for a tour to support the release and also just keeping busy trying to get on top of merch and all that sort of stuff. Both myself and Harry have just returned from a little holiday as well to europe and America to get a bit of R and R in preparation for a big couple of months ahead.  You have an imminent tour, where are you headed?  We do indeed! So the tour starts locally with shows at Berry and Kiama, and then heads south down the coast to Melbourne, stopping off at Ulladulla on the way. For the october long weekend we are playing at Canberra on the friday evening, then cruising on in to Yours and Owls festival, where we will be playing on the Sunday. We then stop in for an all ages show at Sydney, swing by Newcastle  and then head up to the Gold coast and Brisbane for the ‘Hidden Lanes’ festival. Our final stop on the tour is a big hometown show down at the North Wollongong hotel. This is definitely our biggest tour yet, so we are all super keen to be on the road, performing and seeing a bit of the countryside.  How do you prepare for each live show and what do you have planned for this upcoming string of shows?  In the weeks leading up to a gig we try to get together as much as possible and really plan out how the set is going to run and how we can make it a show rather than just us standing there playing our instruments. We have been working on this quite a bit lately, so prepare yourself for some synchronized dance moves and extended outros!  We tend to have a bit of an unofficial ritual on the day of the gig where we practice during the day of the gig, eat some dumplings at the local dumpling house, then try to find an outfit through a process of mixing and matching clothes with each other. Sometimes I think we maybe sorta pull it off but definitely not always haha. After sound check and when we are just about ready to go on we have a bit of a warm/psych up session where we do some drills and stretches we learnt from playing under 8’s rugby league for gerringong. We then do our hand shake and head out onto the stage.  You're touring in support of your new EP, what's the title of the EP?  The title is ‘Strawberry Skies’. This is a hook line from a track on the EP called ‘Someday Soon’. We kind of just liked the image this line painted in our heads, and it reminded us of the place we all lived in together when the majority of the EP was written. For some reason it seemed that where we lived in Woonona always had insane sunsets, and so ‘Strawberry Skies’ just really gave a title to this period of absolute freedom in our lives.  What influenced the sound and songwriting?  The songwriting, particularly the lyrics, were influenced mainly by all that was going on moving out of home to a different area for the first time. For us as a band living together, life was made up of; new relationships, studying and working very little, surfing, jamming and playing our first gigs as a band, and just all the wild times which go with having full on freedom for the first time.  The major influences on our sound came a lot from what we were listening to at the time, combined with the classic aussie and brit rock which we have always loved. Big influences on the sound of the EP came from bands such as; Powderfinger, Silverchair, Foals, Arctic Monkeys, Oasis and Gang of Youths.  Where and when did you record?  We recorded at Sony Studios with Adrian Breakspeare in Sydney. Adrian was such a wonderful mentor and producer for the EP and we feel his input really created it as a polished body of work rather than just a collection of songs. We recorded throughout the later half of 2018 and the start of 2019.  How did you approach the recording/production process?  We would often head over to Ben’s place, where we would construct a bit of a home studio to create some demos. We would then listen over the tracks and see how we can alter the structure and parts to create contrast and dynamics through the songs. A couple of the songs however were just taken  into the studio as crappy phone recordings and we would then work on them there.  Once in the studio Adrian would listen over the tracks and get us to play them live in the studio, to see how he could add or take away parts to create more concise, punchy and powerful tracks. Whilst recording we would often come up with ideas on the spot and then we would run with that. For example we came up with the idea of creating a prelude to the track ‘You’ whilst we were all in there playing away. We thought it would be cool having an opening track to the EP which built some suspense and flowed straight into the second song with no pause. Also during the production process we would often add quite a few different layers to the songs, we actually even had Adrian playing some synths on the last track on the EP ‘Something Good’.  What do you have planned for the EP?  Your tour also includes a few festivals, being: Hidden Lanes, Lost Paradise, and Yours And Owls, what do you most enjoy about playing live and what can we expect from these huge shows?  For me playing live is everything. From when the first note is strummed or the first skin is hit I kind of just go into this weird space where you take on a character and just give it everything. Such an insane feeling and energy when the crowd is getting into it and an even weirder one when people sing along. For Yours and Owls I’m so keen to be playing in our hometown and to a whole bunch of our best mates. We always love putting on a bit of a show and when it is to a bigger audience on a bigger stage, it just gives us so much more energy and options to give it our all. We are super keen for the Hidden Lanes festival as we are playing alongside our local mates ‘The Vanns’ and ‘Tyne James Organ’ in a city we have only played once. Super keen to get to Brisbane and party the night away.  What do you like to do away from music?  All of us surf quite a bit so thats a really cool hobby we can all share together. We are all fond eaters of dumplings, so thats a big part of our lives too. I guess we all like dressing up a bit too and sometimes we film little skits. I’m not sure if they are actually overly funny but we seem to enjoy ourselves. I would also say partying takes up a bit of our time too, so you could catch us at the local pub every now and then.  Who are you listening to at the moment?  At the moment we are all been listening to a bit of Led Zeppelin, Catfish and the Bottlemen and Parcels. Recently saw parcels overseas at a festival in Budapest and it blew my mind!  What's planned for late 2019 going into 2020?  Well we have our EP tour which takes us through to the end of October so that takes up a bit of time. We will be playing at Lost Paradise festival over new years so thats also something we are super excited for. We plan to release a bit more music at the start of next year, so keep your eyes peeled!  Favourite food and place to hangout?  Would have to lock in Dumplings and Bahn Mi for food, and favourite place to hang out would have to be Kiama Leisure centre when they have the Pool Toy inflated. What a time!  Please include links to socials and website.  https://www.facebook.com/PacificAvenueAU/ https://www.instagram.com/pacificavenueau/ http://www.pacificavenue.com.au/ 

Pacific Avenue

What is your name and role within British India? My Name is Will Drummond and I play bass on stage. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I live in Melbourne. The music scene here is thriving as always, hubs shift from year to year but there are always new small venues popping up and always the stalwarts that never close creating a diverse music culture that people from all over Australia and the world love coming to play for and to come and see. How did you first start playing music? I was the youngest of five children. In my house there would be Linda Ronstadt playing in one room, The Presidents Of The United States in another, Metallica emanating from the strange smelling bungalow out the back. So when I was cognisant enough to find the guitar with very few strings on it I wanted to replicate all the sounds I had been listening to as a younger kid. How did the band form? Four bored teenagers in high school who were stealing beers from Nic’s Dad’s bar fridge one Friday night when we started writing songs. We never looked back. What's been happening recently? I was recently in Europe travelling. I went to Hellfest to see Refused, Uncle Acid & The Deadbeats, Sumac and Kiss to name a few. It was in a small town in France called Clisson and it’s easily the best run festival I have ever been to. Highly recommend a pilgrimage for any lover of Punk and Metal. You have a new guitarist Jack Tosi in the band after your last guitarist left, how's the band dynamics now that you have Jack on board? Those dynamics will play out on tour. We have been rehearsing and Jack is a supreme guitarist. But the real dynamics of a band play out when you spend a lot of time together. The band will be touring Australia in October to November, what do you have planned for this tour and what do find most challenging and rewarding whilst being on the road? This tour is about playing with Jack, he’s toured Australia many times himself however every band does things differently so it will be interesting to see how he copes with our entrenched habits and intricacies. The most challenging is always missing things back home, seeing friends, celebrations etc. And the most rewarding is easily playing the songs to people who have travelled to come and see them. How do you prepare for each live show? I have no great ritual. I usually get to the show an hour before hand to hear the noises, get the vibe have a drink and maybe run into some friends. Who are you listening to at the moment? My favourite albums of the year so far are. Craig Finn - I Need A New War Fontaines D.C - Dogrel Helado Negro - This Is How You Smile The Hold Steady - Thrashing Through The Passion What do you like to do away from music? Travel without working. I love being able to get on a plane with nothing but carry on and landing to walk around a foreign city. What's planned for late 2019 going into 2020? This tour, playing shows with a new guitarist is a daunting thought, Jack is very talented but we will not know what it’s going to like until we stand up on the stage together for the first time. Favourite food and place to hangout? I’ve been living in and around Fitzroy for a long time now and it’s such a great place for food and hangouts. If you want a cheap Bahn Mi, Trang is my old faithful. The coffee is always great at Everyday or Terror Twilight. I love trying new and different beers at BeerMash and The Catfish, having Pina Coladas at Shady Lady, catching a punk band at Old Bar, or a doom band at the Bendigo.

British India

YEEVS x The Partae What is your name and role within YEEVS? My name is Bradley and I sing and play guitar where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are based in Sydney but we normally meet up in the Blue Mountains as Tom, our drummer, lives up there. The music scene in Sydney has a lot of pockets of communities that feel very vibrant and healthy despite the debilitating effect that the lockout laws have had on venues and nightlife culture. Wherever there are passionate people, there will be something going on. There’s always something on at any given week in Sydney and I feel at times spoilt for choice when picking a local gig to go to. How did you first start playing music? I started playing the drums when I was 10 and had lessons for a few years. Then I switched to guitar and was awful at it for quite a long time until I started to really hone in on how I wanted to play. I then picked up singing by again being quite bad at it for a while until I persevered. I never gravitated to anything else growing up quite like I did to music and it is a passion and a comfort that has been constant. How did YEEVS form? The three of us met at uni while studying music. Sean and I met on the orientation day and we’ve been in bands together over the years. Tom and I met a bit later on after uni and decided to jam one day. We thought it was great but didn’t pursue it any further until we bumped into each other again at the Glebe market fair and both agreed we should jam together again. The next time I went up to the mountains, I brought Sean with me and it solidified what we have been working on ever since.  You've just release your self tiled debut album, what influenced the sound and songwriting? In terms of sound, all three of us have overlap in what we like and our tastes but we all come at it from differing angles. The main thing we wanted to come back to was capturing how we sound as a live band and to have high quality songwriting. We recorded it over two weekends at a farm in Wiseman’s Ferry and I think that environment definitely assisted with how it sounds. We didn’t need to rush and we could set the pace and be able to play day and night. In terms of lyrics, it’s about feeling much more at peace with yourself and being able to feel more comfortable in your own skin. Parts of the record sound really emotional and cathartic because in order to get to a place of calm, sometimes there needs to be turbulence.  How did you go about writing the music? It was hard work. We demoed consistently the year prior and we were able to see the best parts and sections that could be worked on at a later date. When we finally got to the farm, Dan Holdsworth who produced the record, challenged us further to expand upon those ideas and to create more ‘moments’. Following on from that, I was still finalising what I wanted to say and how I wanted all my vocals to be phrased and Dan guided me with that too. Suffice to say it takes ages to write music that you feel completely happy with and sold on. Our expectations within what we’re doing as musicians have gotten higher the longer we’ve been doing this and I think this album has shaped our writing process going forward. What does this album mean to you? It is a document of where the band is at right now and it feels completely authentic to how we sound, imperfections attached. I’m really proud of it and I feel like the three of us can breathe easy knowing that we’ve made an album completely independently and we can now just enjoy it as a snapshot as we move on to play the shows around it and then eventually writing the next one. Where and when did you record and who with? We recorded over two weekends in April 2018 with Dan Holdsworth. Dan’s a friend of the band and was the right choice for the album. Following on from those sessions, him and I would meet up to overdub and finalise vocals which took about 6 months on and off. What programs/instruments did you use to record? We’re a three-piece rock band so it’s predominantly vocals, guitar, bass and drums with a few embellishments here and there like keyboard and glockenspiel. How did you approach the recording process? We approached it in a way that meant we weren’t going to settle for versions of the songs that would rely upon bigger production techniques in order to maintain interest. The versions of the songs needed to be of a high standard for all three of us. That meant potentially rewriting parts as we went. When you’re playing music, it feels great but when you also are looking at it through the lens of other people are going to listen to this, it changes how you think about the thing you’re creating. We just wanted it to be strong and concise in its execution. We also knew we needed to be in a comfortable environment where time wasn’t an issue. We all lead busy lives so to carve out a few weekends to do this meant that we could inhabit the whole process rather than it feeling like a rushed 6-hour session at a studio you’ve never been to before. What did you find most challenging and rewarding whilst creating the debut album? For me personally it was starting a new job while still being in the recording process and working in the evenings to get good vocal takes. In hindsight, I wouldn’t do anything differently but there was a month there where we were playing a residency, I had just started the new job that same month and I was spending a lot of evenings driving out to Western Sydney to keep working on a record that felt far from finished. I think the other two were really challenged in the initial stages with making sure their parts were locked in together and also cinematic at points. I’m awful at music theory so invariably the other two picked up the slack for that. What do you have planned for the album? We’ve got a seven-show east coast tour lined up to support the album, which we’re really excited about. After investing so much time and energy into the album, I’m looking forward to playing the songs live. It feels especially exciting now that people have had a chance to hear the album. Our favourite part of all of this is engaging with an audience and we can’t wait to do that with the new songs. Who are you listening to at the moment? I’m listening to the new Empty Country single and B side that came out recently which I’m loving. Also at present it’s been a fair bit of Oh Reach, Aldous Harding, Art Of Fighting, Jack Ladder, Augie March, Foxing and American Football’s new album. It’s been a bit all over the place of late! What do you like to do away from music? It might sound like a cliché, but I don’t think I do much else outside from music. Maybe just catching up with friends and family or sharing a good meal. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I think for us we are focused on preparing for the tour that’s to take place. We’ve been rehearsing a lot to make sure we are ready for this run to make it as impactful as possible, both for us and the audience. Once that’s complete, I think we’ll start talking about ambitions for next year. We definitely are keen to start piecing together new material. Favourite food and place to hangout? Right now I’m craving a Mary’s burger so that’s probably my favourite food. In terms of hangouts I would have to say Red Eye Records. I’ve grown up going there to buy music, my partner used to work there and it’s just got some really lovely people that work there. Red Eye’s my happy place.

YEEVS

It's been a little while since we last spoke, what's been happening recently? What’s been happening recently you ask? A lot actually. I’ve been quite busy working on multiple projects; executive producing, planning, plotting and watching a lot of TED talks. Things are rolling quite nicely for you in Australia now, what do you attribute to your success? Hard work, dedication, and self-belief.    What advice would you like to pass onto emerging artists? YOUR. GOD. DAMN. SELF! Someone’s opinion of you does not have to be your reality.   Please tell us about your plans to mentor musicians at the London workshop and how this came about? There a quite a few things I want to touch on at the workshop over in London, which by the way I’d like to thank the lovely team at Nando’s for blessing me with the opportunity to do so.  I want to lead the MX workshop into determination, drive, hunger, relentless thinking and one topic that I’m so passionate about, self-belief. The opportunity came about when I sat on Nando’s MX Sydney panel at Studios 301, it was a similar setting to what the London workshop will be like. It was interesting sitting next to ‘industry’ people, I felt like I was representing the people. Unheard voices, whilst many may look at me and claim I’ve ‘made it’ I’m still fighting battles every single day. There’s still so much to fix within the Australian music scene, I’m truly excited and honoured to have a hand in making a difference.   Why are opportunities for international exposure so important for artists (especially artists from Australia!) International exposure is everything, connecting with the world to change lives and make the earth a better place is the mission. I personally believe that the music scene here is 10 years behind, Australia is still adapting to a culture that has been happening right in front of our eyes. It’s a must for anyone to gain international exposure, why limit yourself. Who said you should be for that matter?   Who are you listening to at the moment? Artists I’m listening to include Bon Iver, James Black, Shoah Aalegra, Blood Orange, Megan Thee Stallion, Rico Nasty, dvsn, Aaliyah, ABRA, Earth, Wind & Fire, FKA Twigs, Young Thug, Future, Lanye West, 070 Shake, Giggs, Keyon Christ, Kraftwerk, The Moments, Kirk Franklin honestly the list goes on!   What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Monopolise and infiltrate the market. Any new music on the way? TOMMY’S IN TROUBLE When and where are you playing next? Next show I’ll be playing is Yours & Owls Festival in Wollongong on the 5th of October, see you there!

Kwame

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based in Bondi, Sydney! The music scene in my opinion fluctuates a fair bit. There is always a good live gig to go see throughout the week, however I find that these gigs can be quite restricted by time restraints and just general stringency. In saying all of that, I thoroughly enjoy living and making music over here, but hope to make a move somewhere overseas in the near future! How did you first start playing music? My thirst for playing music kind of began at high school. I had a few close friends at the time that were into the same music as I was, and then we would always just kind of jam in our free time. It wasn’t till after school however I started taking music a bit more seriously. I found myself writing something nearly every day and I was always spending the spare money I had on new instruments and music tech etc. What's been happening recently? I have recently just released my second EP last week! This has been my biggest project to date however has only just spurred on my desire to release even more music. I’ve nearly finished my music degree at university and currently assessing my options! Other than that, I’m always spending my spare time at the beach, which basically gives me the rest to keep writing music and working! Two years ago, you had heart surgery that left you with a pacemaker, how has your life been since this point onwards? My life has definitely progressed in regard to my heart and the position it was in two years ago. It was a time which definitely taught me a lot of things, the biggest being how important my body is. Can’t really sing and make music if I don’t have a working heart! You have a new EP out 'Three Oh Three' what influenced the sound and song writing for this EP and please tell us about the EP title? The EP as a whole is quite diverse in its creation and end product really. There were songs on the EP which had a certain direction, yet others in which I just wanted to flow naturally. I’m really happy with the result in terms of all of that. The influence for the EP was a mixture between new artists to which I was listening to at the time, new/old relationships and just generally how my life was going at the time of writing. Where and when did you record/produce and who with? Initially all the recording for each song in the EP was recorded in my home studio. Most of these songs were recorded over a period of about 5-6 months. Obviously a lot can happen in this time so the recorded process would constantly change as the songs and their structures changed etc. Once I was happy with the first 3 singles for the EP, I took them to a studio in which I’ve been using for the past couple of years called ‘A-Sharp’. I’ve been working with a producer there (His name s Daniel Natoli) who’s been pretty integral in helping most of my songs flesh out and be as best as they can be. What did you find most challenging and rewarding about creating Three Oh Three? I think the most challenging thing about Three Oh Three were the reactions in which I thought I might receive. I think as artists we constantly feel we are under a tiny bit of scrutiny, and the thought that other people are in a sense, in charge of our success or failure. I think the challenging thing with this EP and any writing process to be honest is the struggle to keep these things apart, and just write where you feel the most love and natural instinct to be yourself. You have shows coming up in September, where are you looking forward to playing and what can we expect from these shows? I’m excited for any show really. I think these ones are particularly special because I get to play new music to the people that have supported me for so long. I think I’m most excited for my next show supporting Slum Sociable. I’ve listened to these guys for quite a while now, so it’s something I’m really excited to play. What do you like to do away from music? I like to keep fit and surf and exercise as much as I can. Other than that, I like to spend as much time with my friends and family as I can. I don’t think there’s anything more relaxing than spending time with the people that make you happy. Who are you listening to at the moment? It seems like I can’t really put Spotify down at the moment as there’s so much good music coming out. I’ve really been loving a band called Far Caspian. I’m a bit of a sucker for ambient guitars backed with a strong beat. Another band which I’ve been a massive fan of for years is Palace. A London based band, their music has always been sounds I’ve tried to really emulate. Still yet to see them live L What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? After all these shows are done for this year, I hope to release a new EP early next year, and then hopefully take my music overseas. Favourite food and place to hangout? I don’t think anything could really beat a decent burger for me. And I also don’t think I can go past a beach hang ;)

Oly Sherman

What is your name and role within the band? My name is Armando, I am the drummer in Electric Kif. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are based out of Miami. The scene is relatively small but is full of killer original music that I think the national scene is only just catching on to.... How did you first start playing music? As a drummer, I began when I found my uncle’s drum kit in a closet in his house and forced him to set it up. From there I played along with my favorite records until auditioning for music school at University of Miami.  How did Electric Kif form? The Kif started as a trio when Eric (our guitar player) met Digo (our bass player) and immediately connected on records they both loved. They decided to start a band and formed a power trio along with the original drummer (Ale Fernandez). The Kif’s first record - sessions - is this trio. What's been happening recently? After some time touring and creating with the Kif, as well as other projects, our new album JEFE is finally done and ready for release. We could not be more proud to share it, and we believe it is the best representation of ourselves we have ever achieved on record.  Your new album 'JEFE' will be released on September 17, what influenced the sound and songwriting for JEFE? Apart from our musical influences like Radiohead, Rage Against the Machine, Jimi Hendrix, and all the usual suspects - I believe the record was influenced most by our experiences in the last two years. The touring, the many shows, and our relationship as a band grew and evolved to the point where it infiltrated our musical identity in a deep way. How did you go about writing the music? We actually booked three days in the studio with very little music prepared, and began to create as much as possible, avoiding distraction. We really liked the idea of having our gear set up and coming in and just “pressing record” each day. A lot of the record was created off the cuff and it honestly surprised us. We left this session with a new energy to create something next level for us, and spent the next year crafting those ideas into what the record is today. Where and when did you record and who with? We recorded in Miami at a place called The Bridge, which is a somewhat musicians hub where people rehearse, record, etc… It was tracked by our good friend Brian Robertson, who absolutely helped form the sonic pallet of the record. What programs/instruments did you use to record? We used standard Logic Prox through an Apollo 8p. As far as instruments, many were used! It is certainly a power quartet record so drums, bass, guitar, and keys are the foundation. However, electric and acoustic guitars, synth bass, Rhodes and organ, countless synths such as moog and prophet, percussion instruments, and many different tools were used to get the sounds we wanted. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of JEFE? The most challenging aspect of JEFE was probably the way in which the compositions came about. Since there were no written compositions when the day came to record, a lot of the writing happened after the fact, piecing together ideas that were recorded. However, this almost backwards process, while challenging, proved an insanely rewarding part of the process. It developed a different avenue of creation that resonated with the band and played to our strengths. Where will we be able to listed/buy JEFE? Any and all platforms! ElectricKif.com, Bandcamp, ITunes, Amazon, Spotify, etc etc.. What do you have planned for JEFE? In the immediate future we have our local record release party on September 14 at Lagniappe House in Miami. Soon after that, we will go on tour along the east coast and a couple other new cities as well!  Who are you listening to at the moment? All four of us listen to a lot of different music, so it’s hard to list everything. But some music that we have been digging into includes Anderson Paak, Kamaal Williams, Khruangbin, Aaron Parks, Thom Yorke, Tigran Hamasyan, Salif Keita and a ton more. What do you like to do away from music? Away from music we all have different interests that include reading, film, art, poker, sports, video games, and mostly just learning new things. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Our upcoming JEFE tour is our primary focus, and possibly beginning a new record? Who knows… that along with some of our side projects who are all putting on shows for the rest of the year. (Twyn, Roosevelt Collier, Nu Deco Ensemble, Aaron Lebos Reality, TRIP, and couple others ...) Any secrets that you care to share? Nope ;) Favourite food and place to hangout? My favorite food changes depending on the day you ask me, but right this second I could go for some Pho. For us, some of our favorite places to hang out in Miami are Lagniappe, Jada Coles, Las Rosas, Citadel .... to name a few. https://www.facebook.com/Electrickif/

Electric Kif

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Im currently based east of Manchester in a little village called Tintwistle. The music scene is pretty non-existent but I’m only a thirty-minute drive from Manchester, which is a musical hub for the Northwest. Having lived in Central London and Manchester it’s been nice for me to have a bit of quiet. It’s really allowed me to take that downtime but also given me the freedom to be in a city pretty quickly.  How did you first get involved with playing music? When I was 13 my mother told me I could have any musical instrument for Christmas. I’m actually not sure what preempted that. As much as I liked music, I don't think I had really expressed an interest in playing anything. Anyway… I picked the drums and she stuck true to her word and that year I got a drum kit. I had zero clue how to play, and I stuck at the drums and after years of playing I fell into production. What's been happening recently? More recently I’ve been trying to take a bit of time out with my family, Go on long walks or bike rides and take in a bit of nature. It can be quite easy to isolate yourself when making an album so its been a bit of a breather. You're new single 'Coming Back' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? Thinking back, night-time driving has played a big part in recent writing. It’s been one of the more consistent times I’ve had to be alone, reflect and listen to new music, which has in turn kind of shaped my musical intentions. How did you go about writing 'Coming Back’? I start every track I write differently. ‘Coming Back’ started with experimenting with synth sounds. I wanted to create something warm and analogue sounding. Something groove based that would have a bounce but didn’t feel overly dance music. Where and when did you record and who with? I have a studio in my attic where I do all my writing and recording… I rented a Neumann U87 for a couple of days and got Ben P Williams round to lay the vocals down one afternoon… What programs/instruments did you use to record? I use Logic Pro X as my main DAW. I use a plethora of percussive instruments that I've acquired over the years. The main synth line was made on the Korg Minilogue and under-pinned with the Moog Sub Phatty. How did the concept for the 'Coming Back' music video come about? Simon Brooks produced the music video, who always seems to capture the essence of a track. We had spoken about influences previously and I had mentioned a few ideas.  He included the late-night driving vibes i mentioned earlier and just generally got the tone of the video right. Simon has worked on every Frameworks video because he just gets it.  Where and when did you film? We filmed the video on the 11th of June at Sitcom Soldiers, Manchester.  What did you find most challenging and rewarding through the creation and recording of  'Coming Back’? I think the most challenging thing was probably the mix-down.. It can be a laborious task mixing sometimes and trying to get the right balance and feel across the board. I mix with Gareth Metcalf at studio-nyne not so far from me. I’ve been working with Gareth some years now and he gets what I’m going for. It’s a massive help having a second set of ears on mixes that I trust.  How do you prepare for your live shows? I generally lock myself in my studio for a while basically. The studio can be an overly critical listening environment sometimes which is great for fine tuning things, but I think there is a lot to be said for just getting out there on a system and finding out realistically what’s working. We also have the full live outfit which is a bit more time consuming to organize, but all the musicians involved are super talented and have helped create something really special. What programs and equipment do you use whilst performing live? For live i’m using Ableton Live with a PUSH, the Korg Minilogue, SPD-SX and a Pioneer DJ mixer. What do you most enjoy about playing live? I think I get the most out of finishing playing and feeling it went really well. When the energy is right in a room and you just seem to hit the road-running is a great feeling… Being in the flow.  What do you like to do away from music? Spending time with my family. I have an amazing wife and two kids that keep me busy outside of music. Having children has been my greatest inspiration and fuel for work.  Who are you listening to at the moment? I’ve been listening to the latest Jungle album recently, the production is great.  Also here’s a link to a playlist I try to keep updated regularly with things I'm listening to. https://open.spotify.com/playlist/513wJiNd4pBvnCtY1B4CnG?si=Geruhy1VTlOeP8CIDOtIug Where and when are you playing next? I’m taking a minute off playing right now but we have some things in the works for early next year to keep an ear to the ground on that. What projects are you working on at the moment? Im always working on new music… Right now I’m also working on a remix or two which should be out later in the year.. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Any secrets that you care to share? I'm really excited to be sharing a lot more content VERY soon, and early 2020 will see a large tour with two other artists i'm a big fan of! Shhhhhhhhh haha  Favourite food and place to hangout? Right now, I have a thing for Tacos! My brother in law came round and made the best tacos ever and since then i’ve been on a regular taco fix. Favourite local would be Harvey Leonards in Glossop which is a bar that specializes in imports, Really lovely place.  https://www.facebook.com/Frameworksmusicuk/

Frameworks

What is your name and role within DZ Deathrays? Simon Ridley - Percussion / Hospitality Rider Enthusiast. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I live in Brisbane, Australia. The music scene here isn’t the biggest but it’s a very supportive, eclectic one and I think it’s because of that there are a lot of amazing artists constantly coming out of this town and onto the national/international touring circuits. How did DZ Deathrays form? Shane and myself were initially in a 3 piece band however once our drummer left we then decided to start a new project just as a two piece and that was it. What's been happening recently? This year started with us recording our new record: Positive Rising: Part 1 in Los Angeles. Then we came back to Australia, did a 3 month regional tour before hitting up a few shows and festivals over in Central Europe. Now we’re just about to go into the studio again to finish part 2 this month. Your new album Positive Rising: Part 1 will be out August 30 via I OH YOU, what influenced the sound and songwriting? A major influence of both parts has been the introduction of our session guitarist Lachlan Ewbank joining the writing process. He’s been quite the driving force behind the record and we’re all really happy about the overall outcome of the tracks because of it. How did you go about writing the music and how long did the album take to write? We began writing mid 2017 and tried to get ahead on demoing it before the release of our last record Bloody Lovely. Then we continued writing in between tours for that album. Where and when did you record/produce and master and who with? We recorded the album in L.A. with Miro Mackie in his studio in North Hollywood. We wanted to get out and try something different to the last few records we had done at the Grove Studios which are like an hour out of Sydney. How did you approach the recording/production process? Miro has a pretty set format for recording so we stuck fairly close to that. Basically working 10am to 10pm for about two weeks straight. A bit of recording everything each day, burritos for lunch and ending with a nice whiskey night at the end of each session. What did you find most challenging and rewarding whilst creating this album? I think just getting the US visas to record it in America was the hardest part. Everything else was actually pretty great! I think having Lach on board and us all working together as team was the most rewarding part. We also had a bunch of friends come into the studio and add extra parts. Kirsty Tickle was able to come in and put down some backing vocals and Sax. Matt Caugthtran also came in and put down some vocals which was something really special for Shane and myself as we’re massive The Bronx fans. What programs/instruments did you use? It was a fairly standard Pro Tools setup. We kinda just used whatever gear they had at the studio as we were limited to bringing our own due to the flights. I think the main plugin we got behind was Sound Toys’ Valhalla Reverb. That’s in there a fair bit. What did you learn through the creation of this album? I think each time we just push ourselves to see what we can pull off without taking the band too far from what it is that we and the fans enjoy from it. So for this record adding things like saxophone and having friends around brought the vibe up. You're touring Australia in October/November, how do you prepare for live shows? Drink the rider and crack dumb jokes along with a couple of stretches. We’ve got a great team with us now so there’s not a lot of stress backstage and we’ll do a few days pre production to make sure everything is going to work for everyone involved. Any shows in particular that you're looking forward to playing? I love playing at the Forum in Melbourne and this is the second time we’ve been fortunate enough to be able headline so I’m very excited to get back in there. We’ve never played at the Astor before so I’m also looking forward to how that goes too. What do you like to do away from music? I don’t really do much else to be honest. Pizza and movies with the Mrs. Who are you listening to at the moment? Press Club, Alkaline Trio, Electric Zebra... I guess I’m going through a bit of punk rock thing again according to my Spotify history. What's planned for the late 2019 going into 2020? We record Positive Rising: Part 2 this week. Release Positive Rising: Part 1 at the end of the month. Album launch/signing parties start of Sept. Eu/UK headline tour in Sept/Oct. Aus headline tour Oct/Nov. US/Canada tour in Nov/Dec. European tour with The Darkness in Jan/Feb. Then a few more tours that aren’t announced yet along with the release date for Positive Rising: Part 2. Any secrets that you care to share? My Wifi password is: 6E36FBD890. (Go easy on the torrenting please!) Favourite food and place to hangout? Thin base pepperoni pizza, Mountain Dew, my couch.

DZ Deathrays

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm currently based in the Northern Rivers region, near Byron Bay. The Music scene is good here and there are a of professional muso's and established musicians have been moving here a lot over the last decade. We were actually overseas in Bali for the last three years but we've come back now to embark on this next phase of my career and launch my book and my album.  How did you first start playing music, singing/guitar? I grew up in Melbourne and I got a guitar at the age of 10, I used to play a lot with my Grandad.  I would listen to a lot of Triple RRR and PBS then in my early 20's and moved into inner city Melbourne and that's when my music career really started.  What's been happening recently? Last week I released a new single called 'Ain't My Problem' which features The Teskey Brothers so that's pretty exciting. The last single was 'Whispering Voice' which featured Kasey Chambers. I've got a Podcast called 'Soulful Conversations' which my first interview was with John Butler then I had Ziggy Alberts and Kim Churchill, Harry James Angus and Josh Teskey and a handful of other amazing people My debut book 'Surf by Day, Jam by Night' was released this week where I interview Kelly Slater, Steph Gilmore, Jack Johnson and many others. I interviews 15 surfers and musicians and it's everyday wisdom and habits that get people in flow states and live their best possible lives.  I have a company I co-own with my wife, called Earth Bottles and we've been going around the country doing beach clean ups and shows. Earth Bottles is a single use plastics company that is trying to eliminate plastics. We make water bottles, coffee cups and all sorts of reusable stuff so we don't have so much plastic clogging up our oceans.  Your new album MOJO; drops on August 30, what influenced your sound and songwriting for MOJO?  Most of Mojo was recorded in American and it's my guitar blues album and to introduce me to American and the rest of the world. I've got some amazing guests on all of the tracks and it's my ninth studio album.  To me it represents getting my Mojo back and coming out of a little bit of a mid life slump. I believe their are seasons in life and I feel like i've just come in to a new one.  Where and when did you write the music for the new album? Much of the album was recorded in LA about 5 years ago which a lot of old school blues legends from America. I got it back 4 years later when I started trying to turn things around. I got a new manager who was able to track it down and we got the album finally and I ended up adding in Byron Bay some new tracks and some overdubbing and some amazing Australian special guests. So it was recorded between LA and Byron over the span of 5 years.  Who did you work with during the creation on Mojo? We've got some amazing special guests on Mojo given that it was a guitar blues album, it was a huge honour to have Joe Bonamssa on a track. We got Harry Angus from The Cat Empire on two tracks who's a really good friends, Kasey Chambers appears on one track, The Teskey Brothers who are on 'Ain't my Problem' and 'Waiting Around To Die' which is amazing, we got Kim WIlson who is one of the best and more respected harmonica players in the world he's on a couple of tracks then my good buddy Ian Collard from melbourne who is such an amazing harp player. Then I have Mahalia Barnes who kills it on three tracks on the album she bought some really special moments to the record. I've also got Terry Evans who is no longer with us and one of my all times idols and Eddy 'The Chief' Clearwater they are two old African American blues guys who are just lords. It was a huge honour to have all of these guests.  What programs/instruments were used to record? It's a very live sounding album and was doing with the traditional methods of going through really good old school analogue gear and done in a pretty standard classic way really with an emphasis on the playing.  How did you approach the recording process? There was a lot of layering as I say some of those sessions were recorded five years ago in LA then added to in Byron later by me. Adding guitar oberdbus and solos, I really took the time to craft the guitar solos and give them a lot of meaning. It's the first time i've done that giving as much detail as my singing voice on the album.  What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of Mojo? I guess the most challenging part of the album was A - it was lost for so long and I didn't even know if was ever going to get my hands on it. Which was tough because I had talked about it some much since returning. After that it was spending the time and the money doing it justice and we really put a lot of time and effort into it and I'm really happy iwth these results.  Who are you listening to at the moment? I'm looking around thinking about my next album and what I want to achieve, I'm going to be doing a lot of co-writing in America for the next record, I'm listening to a lot of Bluesy stuff like The Black Keys new album, Rag N Bone, Gary Clark Jr - really combining that modern blues pop sound. That's something I've been into for a long time but I've left it behind on the last few albums. It's really cool to see what's been happening in that world, it's not really a genre being Blues Pop but it seems there's a few great artists in that area.  What do you like to do away from music? I love surfing obviously and I love reading and listening to podcasts when I get the time. Along with Meditation, Yoga and Whimhoff breathing.  I'm fascinated with trying to maximise the happiness in my life and the life of my family, it's not quite a simple as it seems. THere's a lot of head work that can go into being content and cruisey which is how I like to keep it.  You have a massive Aus/NZ tour kicking off in early October, what do you most enjoying about touring and playing live? I think one of life's unalterable equations is that you get out what you put in. I've never probably put in so much to my music in terms of the musicianship side, practicing my instrument and singing. So now when I get to the gig, it's something I'm keenly anticpating. I've been having such a ball in the lead up to the shows and I cannot wait to get the album out and get on the road and tour it. They are far from empty words I'm absolutely frothing the idea of getting out there and playing these shows. I'm very suited to touring, I'm happy to travel and cruise and in my own world - I'm always learning and you can do that anywhere. I don't like being away from my family but it's all part of it.  What do you have in store for these shows? We're really crafting a show an actual show, rather than just off the cuff. A lot of my shows in my career have been off the cuff whereas now I'm excited about crafting this show and going in with a really solid battle plan.  What's planned for late 2019 going into 2020? The rest of the year with me is touring for music and the book. I'll be doing a lot of in stores to promote the book.  We'll also be going over to America to do some showcases in LA and New York and tackle that behemoth. 

Ash Grunwald

What made you decide music was the way you wanted to communicate your art and ideas to the world? I think I had a pretty late start getting into music, with much of secular music outside the realm of my everyday listening till I was about 12 (I could read half the bible from memory though, a must-have on most resumés). All it took was 5 minutes on my brother’s shitty Sony Walkman, listening to a bootleg copy of Simple Plan’s “No Pads, No Helmets, Just Balls” for me to realise how music made me feel, and I’ve been hooked on chasing that high ever since. What’s your favourite thing about playing shows in Australia? Definitely the audience. It’s hard to describe, but I think fellow Singaporean and incredible supporter of the arts Danny Loong puts it best: “There is a natural response to art and to music in countries like Australia that should be aspired to everywhere.” I still remember one of my favourite gig moments ever, playing an original to a rowdy crowd at Melbourne’s Whole Lotta Love Bar, and realising by the end of it that it was so quiet you could hear a pin drop. It was one of those moments that remind me why I do this, and it’s something I’ll always look forward to when I head over to play for you guys! Can you talk us through the themes and emotions presented in ‘Losing’? Losing is basically about a person who does the “Eat, Pray, Love” thing and leaves everything to travel around the world in an attempt to forget someone, but ends up being reminded of that person in every amazing sight he finds. It’s about the inevitability of ghosts in our lives, of how places and memories are marred by whatever trauma you go through, even when we try to forget it. For me personally, the song was an exploration, both lyrically and musically, to capture the quiet moments between the big ones. I feel like songs often talk about the highlights in relationships, but ignore the years in limbo trying to figure out who you are again, and I feel this song really captures that struggle. What’s a bucket list achievement of yours? To play at Glastonbury. Nothing fancy.

LINCOLN LIM

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm currently based in Melbourne. The music scene is lively and fresh with new talent popping up all the time! How did you first start playing music? I used to study ballet full time, and left at 16. At my new school I immediately enrolled in music performance and vocal lessons, and picked up guitar. It grew pretty quickly from there. How would you describe your sound/music that you play? My music is constantly evolving but I like to label it alternative pop. What's been happening recently? I've been writing, heaps. I also had my birthday recently and maybe had a little bit too much fun at my party. You've just released your new single 'Even When We Let It Go' what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? Honestly, "Even When We Let It Go" was one of those songs that popped into my head and I had to pick up a guitar and write it immediately. There were a few production influences however, such as Jeremy Zucker, Vera Blue and Lauv. How did you go about writing 'Even When We Let It Go'? It just flowed out of me - I didn't have to think too much during the process! Where and when did you record and who with? I recorded the track with Sb90 (Stuart Le Brander) at his studio from April - June. How did you approach the songwriting for this track? For this song, I tried to be a bit blunt and direct, whilst painting pictures in the verses to really capture the audience. I wanted the words to feel and sound like they were falling off my tongue, so I was really picky with the rhythms to accompany my melodies. How do you usually go about writing music? Usually, I tend to dream up lyrics and melodies and write them down in the morning, and then I'll sit at the piano or with my guitar and start to piece together a chords progression that accompanies one or more of the melodies I like, and go from there! What programs/instruments did you use? I play piano and guitar, but also use Ableton Live to program and produce music. What do you have planned for 'Even When We Let It Go'? I plan to bring it on tour early next year!!!  Where can we listen/buy? You can listen to/buy "Even When We Let It Go" on Spotify, Apple Music and iTunes. What do you like to do away from music? I love cooking, seeing my family, dog and friends, watching shows on netflix, baths, eating cheese and exploring nature. Who are you listening to at the moment? Lately I've been spinning Charli XCX, Hayley Kiyoko, Flume & Reo Cragun, Chelsea Cutler and Gryffin. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? For the rest of 2019 and start of 2020 i'm planning new releases and hopefully a tour!! Where and when are you playing next? No details yet, but stay tuned. Any secrets that you care to share? As a child I was the worlds biggest bookworm. Reading sessions could go for 12 hours and I made a point to choose reading after school instead of socialising. Favourite food and place to hangout? My favourite food is definitely pasta and my favourite place to hang out is definitely my bed, with parks/forests coming in a close second! Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

Odyssey S

Photo: Sam Wong What is your name and role within City Calm Down? Lee Armstrong and I play drums Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Currently based in Melbourne, Australia. The music scene here in Melbourne is incredible. You can go out any night of the week and see an incredible band. Bolstered by the numerous amounts of incredible venues I haven’t really been to many places like it. How did you first start playing music? When I was about 14 years old a friend of mine told me I had to join his band. I advised him that I didnt play an instrument but that didnt really matter to him...He said "nah, you're playing in my band..ask your parents for lessons".. Not willing to let the team down, I asked and the rest is history, I guess. City Calm Down has been in the game for over 10 years now, how has the scene changed since the band started?  I think one of the main things I’ve seen change over the last few years is that festivals and radio are starting to focus on having a more diverse and inclusive program. While it still has a ways to go it’s positive that the conversation is happening. How has the band changed since the band started? Well, one of the most obvious changes to the band to me is when I joined. I took over from the last drummer just before we recorded the Movements EP. Musically, I’m finding its evolving with each record. You can still hear some elements of CCD that were present in our early releases but I guess over time, listening to different music and finding different inspiration changes how your ideas come out. Your new album Television is out August 23, your sound has gone down a new, fresh path, what influenced the sound and songwriting for the new album? I think bands like Trex, The Velvet Underground and The Rolling Stones are bands that I can hear coming through on this latest record. We went into this record wanting to write something that was more to the point, with it being more pop focused. How did you go about writing the music for Television?  For this record a majority of the initial ideas would come from our singer, Jack. These would then be brought to the band to work through.  Rhythmically, I think the record went through a lot of changes even when we were in the studio. A couple of the tracks had to be completely changed, which was pretty stressful at the time haha. Where and when did record & who did you work with? We recorded at The Grove Studios outside of Sydney, NSW with Burke Reid. What did you find most rewarding and challenging during the recording and production process? Because the sound we were creating is quite a departure from our last record, i think you sometimes second guess what you are doing. Because you’re so far out of comfort zone. For me, that was probably the most difficult and rewarding part at the same time. Where did you mix and master, and who with? Burke Reid mixed the record at The Grove and it was mastered by   What programs/instruments did you use and how did you come to choose the equipment? Was recorded in pro tools. We used a bunch of acoustic guitar and piano on this record. We haven’t used these instruments much previously but thought they were necessary to achieve the sound we were after. In New Years Eve we used two cymbals stacked on top of each other to get a trashy sound. That was something that came through experimentation in the studio. Did Television turn out as you expected? Not really. A lot of the rhythm and the overall feel of the record changed quite a bit in pre production and then again in the studio. You have a massive UK/Europe tour coming up in Sept/Oct, and then a headline Aussie tour… what do you have install for these shows? Some old stuff and some new stuff. We have a more guitar focused sound so should be fun to take that on the road! Any secrets that you care to share? I ain’t no snitch. Favourite food and place to hangout? Currently meat pies and the pub.

City Calm Down

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Montreal; vibrant and huge. How did you first start playing music? It's always been something I do.  Your new single 'I Love You' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I was listening to a lot of Sophie, especially *Faceshopping" and I wanted to explore my own version of that sound. The lyrics are playful, sexy, and a little confusing, which I did to mimick the multitude of feelings humans experience when we're attracted to one another.  Where and when did you record/produce 'I Love You'? At my home studio, Studio Banane Géante. I usually compose lyrics as I'm walking home from events.  Who did you work with during the recording/production process? I bounced off some ideas to Woulg, but mostly it was all me.  What programs/instruments did you use? Ableton Live 10, ozone, minor third up, etc.  What did you most enjoy about the process and what did you learn? I really enjoyed playing with layering, and that breathing sample is something Iève been looking for FOREVER so I was really happy to finally find it.  Your new single 'I Love You' is off your upcoming EP, what will the EP be called? The working title is Inspector Knife What does this EP mean to you as a whole? It means following this new, entirely electronic direction for Blue Odeur. I want to see people dance and I feel like I’m finally figuring it out. What did you find most challenging and rewarding whilst creating this EP? The most challenging was trying to edit down all my ideas to beautiful, uncluttered cohesive tracks. I feel like that is a challenge I’ll be happily facing for a while. The most rewarding part is listening to “I Love You” and being so freaking proud of it and what is gonna come after it! Any new music video's on the way? If so, please tell us more: Always in the works, will let you know ;) You are involved in the local Montreal DIY scene ever since you were involved with big underground spot 'Poisson Noir', please tell is about the Montreal DIY scene, what takes place?   The DIY Montreal scene is a truly inspiring community to be a part of; we are carving our own spaces out of this city, and classically, the best shows I’ve ever seen were at DIY venues. The empathy and compassion of this community is really amazing. My friends from Poisson Noir are definitely friends for life. How did you first become involved in the Montreal DIY scene? I joined Poisson Noir shortly after moving here, and the rest is history :) What do you like to do away from music? I love reading, mostly fiction and theory. I listen to podcasts like SRSLY WRONG and Reply All, and I dabble in making midi controllers and some light coding.  Who are you listening to at the moment? SO MUCH LIZZO! And Lekeli47, Sevdaliza, and “Voices” by Flume and Sophie.  Any upcoming shows?  Where and when? Hot Tramp Festival!! At Diving Bell Social Club on Sept 1, with Sorry Girls, Bodywash and Beige-a-coeur, then onto Pop Montreal at Brasserie Beaubien with Winona Forever, Peeling and Sauna. In October, Halloween with Petra Glynt.  How do you prepare for live shows? I choose my set list, then lay the base tracks out in Ableton, and create my vocal tracks with all of the appropriate FX laid out. I also try to take a moment of silence before I play, and do breathing exercises.  You're playing shows at Hot Tramp Fest and also you Halloween show with Petra Glynt, how did these shows come about and what do you have in store for these special shows? These shows came from Sarah Armiento, my wonderful new manager! She’s an absolute powerhouse and I’m overjoyed to work with her. I have some new hijinx in store, and some choreography.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? The rest of the Inspector Knife EP, some videos, and besting what I’ve already accomplished.  Any secrets that you care to share? YOU DO BELONG, YOU ARE IMPORTANT, PLEASE DON’T GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS.  Favourite food and place to hangout? Dim sum and Studio Banane Geante. 

Blue Odeur

Roger Kemp: Visionary Modernist is the first major exhibition to chart the development of acclaimed Australian abstract artist Roger Kemp’s career. Best known for his large-scale tapestries that hang in the National Gallery of Victoria’s Great Hall, Kemp is recognised as one of the great inventors in abstract art, striving ‘to make visible the invisible’. Featuring several never before publicly exhibited works, the exhibition is the most comprehensive retrospective of this artist’s work since his death in 1987. Comprising paintings, prints and sketches, the exhibition explores the artist’s extraordinary career, beginning with his earliest paintings of symbolic landscapes and angular dancing figures, through to his late works, which reveal an artist whose concerns go beyond the physical world. A unique and enigmatic artist, his interest was not in the overriding traditions of figurative and landscape art, nor the prevailing trends in non-objective art, but rather something much deeper and more metaphysical. In Kemp’s later works – highly resolved paintings of the 1960s, 70s and 80s – the geometric structure heightens the symbolic richness contained within. His works from this period are charged with great emotional energy and are the pinnacle of an artistic and spiritual journey. Tony Ellwood AM, Director, National Gallery of Victoria said, ‘The four large-scale tapestries that hang in the Gallery’s Great Hall are among the Gallery’s most identifiable pieces of art and this exhibition presents a timely and comprehensive review of these and other dynamic abstract works from the artist’s career.’   The NGV is publishing a comprehensive monograph to coincide with the exhibition, which features the artist’s work and new scholarship from Australian experts. This solo exhibition follows recent major solo surveys at NGV Australia, including Rosslynd Piggott and Darren Sylvester, and kicks off the next season of upcoming solo exhibitions, showcasing the work of Australian designer Lucy McCrae and photographers Petrina Hicks and Polixeni Papapetrou later this year.   Roger Kemp: Visionary Modernist is on display from 22 August 2019 to 15 March 2020 at The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia at Federation Square. Entry is FREE. Further information is available from the NGV website: NGV.MELBOURNE.

Roger Kemp: Visionary Modernist opens at NGV Australia – The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia | 22 August 2019 – 15 March 2020 | Free Entry

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m based on the Sunshine Coast, QLD at the moment and the music scene isn’t bad at all. It’s definitely been improving and will get a big boost when NightQuarter opens up later this year.  How did you first start playing music? I remember being dragged along to family guitar lessons when I was about 8 and thought it was just so boring. Then throughout primary and high school I played violin, clarinet and saxophone in school bands until I eventually came full circle and realised how cool guitar actually was, so I taught myself from there! What's been happening recently? I’ve been doing a lot of songwriting (like a lot) and recording.  Your new single 'Sunburn' was released on August 22, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? Well the main idea behind Sunburn came after I got badly sunburnt and realised the similarities between that and heartbreak and thought hmmm this could make a cool song!  How did you go about writing Sunburn? The melody was actually inspired by pop punk music – probably because I was listening to All Time Low non-stop at the time #guiltypleasure. I wrote the chorus first and then kind of worked backwards to write the bridge and verses around it, which is the order I follow for most songs I write. Where and when did you record? I recorded Sunburn in May at a home studio in Sydney. It’s a fairly new song so it was really cool to see it finished so soon after writing it. What programs/instruments did you use? There’s a mix of programmed instruments, synths and electric guitar. Xavier Dunn produced Sunburn, how did you come to work with Xavier? I slid into his Instagram DMs of course! But I had previously heard some other tracks he’s worked on and loved the vibe so I thought why not reach out. What was it like working alongside Xavier? Please describe the experience: Let’s just say it didn’t take me long to realise he was a musical genius. Like whoa, that man knows how to turn a chill song into a banger! We had so much fun working on Sunburn together and I know I’ve made a life-long friend and can’t wait to work with him again. What do you have planned for Sunburn? The plan is to get as many people as possible to hear it and, fingers crossed, love it! What do you like to do away from music? So many things! I really love playing tennis and I’m also in an oztag team with some friends which is super fun. I’ve recently started getting my own amateur cook book together with vegetarian and vegan recipes so that’s something I like doing in my free time. Who are you listening to at the moment? I’ve been listening to Fleetwood Mac’s ‘Rumours’ album non-stop lately. Sooooo good. If you could spend a day with any person, living or dead, who would it be and why? That’s a tough question but I would probably have to say David Tennant. I have an unhealthy obsession with Doctor Who so I’d love to hang out with him and pretend I’m the Doctor’s companion for the day.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Just releasing some new music and playing more shows. I’m playing at Caloundra Music Festival in October so that should be really fun! Any secrets that you care to share? Hmmm well let’s just say if you like Sunburn then stick around because there’s plenty more new songs coming soon. Favourite food and place to hangout? Judge me all you want but my favourite food is, and always has been, olives. There’s usually a jar wrapped up under the Christmas tree for me and it’s just the best thing ever.  To make this answer even worse, my favourite place to hang out is probably my house. It’s got food, Netflix, and my music gear – what else could you ask for?  www.facebook.com/IsabelWoodMusic  www.instagram.com/IsabelWoodMusic  www.soundcloud.com/IsabelWoodMusic  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZk3SvM9lx6FdPJ3QzrC1DQ

Isabel Wood

What is your name and role within Allola? Singer, producer and songwriter  Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like? I am very lucky to have grown up here in Melbourne. We have a crazy live music scene where you can hit up a show almost any night of the week and discover new music. We have a great little community of female electronic artists as well which is so amazing to be a part of!  How did you first start playing music? I was a classically trained singer and pianist from a young age and eventually moved into studying a Jazz and Contemporary vocal course at University. We had access to a lot of great production tools there and I would spend a lot of time in the studio making my own tunes.  How did Allola form? I had gone through a period of writer’s block after completing my course. I found I was constantly writing piano ballad after piano ballad and this made me super frustrated. I picked up a drum machine one day and began experimenting with beats and this suddenly opened up a whole new world for me. I invested in a Roland synth which has a sequencing and recording feature built into it and I created a lot of my tracks using that in the beginning.  I had a gig opportunity with a band called “Tora” come up while I was in the middle of writing my setlist, and I had about 2 weeks to finalise half an hour worth of songs. The show went well...and that’s sort of where it all started! What's been happening recently? I released my first single “High Horse” last November, which I worked on with an amazing US based producer (and now one of my best pals) Mark Eckert. It had an incredible response gaining airtime on Triple J and featured in the CHVRCHES episode of “If You Like” on Triple J Unearthed. Since then, Mark and I have been working on a bunch of new tracks which are set for release later this year.  On August 16 your new single  'Carry' will be released, what in influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? “Carry” is an observation on how different people tackle mental health and how it effects those around them. I think it’s important to continue to encourage your mates to talk, listen without judgement and give them a little love.  How did you go about writing Carry? I was listening to a lot of Broods at the time. There’s this really cool arpeggiator in the track “Hold the Line” off their Conscious record and I was vibing on that hard, so I layed down a few different sounds and took it from there. My producer had flown out to Melbourne to work on this track with me and we were writing the middle 8. I really liked the idea of having some uplifting vocal chants through this section so we spent a couple of hours recording this one vocal line sung from different areas in the room - we must have done at least 50 takes! Mark got back to the US to work on post prod and he suggested putting in the sax solo which I was totally down with! He got his mate Adrian Crutchfield in and he slayed the solo in 1 take. I later found out he had been the touring sax player in Prince’s band. I think that solo is my favorite moment of this track.  Where and when did you record? We worked on this record in my home studio in Melbourne. In other words the tiny second room in my two bed apartment.    What instruments/programs did you use? To form the basis of the track I used my Roland JD-Xi, the final track still features some of these sounds. Then we recorded through Ableton using a Roland Juno and a live tom to fill out some of the beats. The rest of the sounds mainly come from plug-ins on Ableton and there’s also a little live guitar in there too.  What do you have planned for Carry? The track talks about that inward battle you can find yourself facing at times, that constant chatter in your mind telling you nasty things, creating unnecessary anxiety in your life. I hope people can listen to this if they’ve ever felt this way and just understand they are not alone and there are always people to talk to. I also hope people can have a little boogie with this one!   What did you most enjoy and find most challenging during the creation of Carry? Creating this track was actually a very quick and painless process, all the sounds came together quite quickly and the vocals kinda just fell into place. I found adding all the small nuances and the finalisation of the track to be the most tricky, its a fine line between getting too messy with sounds, so we just had to make a call in the end of what to keep in there and what to get rid of. But super happy with the result! What do you like to do away from music? I love cooking! I find it really creative and I love eating delicious food so it’s a win win really.  Who are you listening to at the moment? At the moment I am in love with this group Fickle Friends from the UK. They have such a sweet and fun vibe, you should definitely check them out!  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? There is another release on the cards but I can’t say when just yet, and a short tour planned for the end of the year, so stay posted. 

Allola

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I am currently based in Toronto, Canada.  Toronto is a big city, with a lot of music opportunity and amazing people to work with.  We have tons of amazing talent here, and I find everyone in my city loves music.  There is always a place you can go to see live music, and we have lots of music festivals throughout the summer.  How did you first start playing music? I have been singing since I was about six.  I remember singing for everyone at a family wedding, and from that moment I knew it was something I wanted to do professionally.  I discovered how my voice could move an audience and bring happiness to others and that was an amazing feeling. What's been happening recently? On July 26th I released my most recent single, ‘BUBBLE.’  It came out on three major Spotify playlist such as New Music Friday, which was so fantastic for me. Your new single 'Bubble' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? The influence behind the sound and the writing for this song totally came from a particular mood I was in at the time when I began to create this track. How did you go about writing Bubble? This particular track just seemed to flow out after I was able to create the sound and melody.  There was something about the sound and my mood that day that just brought this song and its lyrics to life. What is the meaning behind Bubble? This song is about feeling like you are trapped in a bubble, where breaking out could be just as good or bad as remaining inside.  Struggling to know if you will be able to break free, a state of confusion in a particular point in life. Where and when did you record/produce and who with? I recorded this song in Toronto with my producer Adam Tune. What programs/instruments did you use? This track has piano, synth and drums with some vocal effects that accomplished a very current chill pop sound that I was after. What do you have planned for Bubble? My plans are for all the pop music lovers to hear this track, love and share it and add it to their own playlists. What are you up to at school? I am looking forward to completing my final year in high school so I can work on music even more. How do you balance your school and music career? This is one of my current challenges.  It can be troublesome at times, but I am in an arts school that is understanding and will work with me to arrange makeup dates on tests and assignments. It creates for lots of homework. Who or what influences you in life and music? There are many things that influence me in different aspects of my life, but with regards to music specifically I would say all the other musicians that I love, such as Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Halsey and another fellow Canadian Alessia Cara. Where do you see yourself in the next 5 to 10 years? I will be continually writing and releasing music and hopefully sooner than later performing in very large stadiums, fingers crossed. Has music always been a big part of your life? Music has always been a very big part of my life; in fact to me life without music would just be unimaginable. What do you like to do away from music? I love performing for charity events and participating in raising money for different causes.  I am also very into the production side of music as well, but I guess that’s still music.  There really isn’t much for me that isn’t musical these days. Who are you listening to at the moment? I am listening to the new Ed Sheeran album as well as Bazzi’s new album.  Rumor has it Ariana Grande is coming out with new music that I am patiently awaiting. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I will be continually releasing new music, keeping my vocals in tune with my coach, conducting interviews and working towards finishing my final year of high school. Any secrets that you care to share? Hmmm..well if I do that it wouldn’t be a secret.  Ok maybe I’ll share one; I am secret lover of makeup. Favourite food and place to hangout? My favourite food is Pizza, and I would say the mall gets to see me an awful lot!

Zoelly

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?   I’m currently living in Alliston Ontario. I’m still newer to the area and discovering the music scene here, but the town has been pretty great about welcoming me into the music scene. Shout out to Sandra who owns The Coop here in town. She has turned her venue into a go to live music spot and she is opening another venue in town to host more live music! How did you first start playing music?   Well my mom always says I started making up songs before I could talk, so I guess I always knew I wanted to play music. I began voice and piano lessons back in elementary school days and I was always that girl in the school musical and going off to music camp. Your new single 'Unfinished' is out TODAY, where and when did you record?   I recorded Unfinished back in January of this year in Vancouver, BC at Armoury studio. What influenced the sound and songwriting for Unfinished?   Unfinished is a song title I’ve had on my list to write for quite a while now. The inspiration for this song came from a personal story from my real life. What is the meaning behind Unfinished?   Unfinished is definitely coming from a personal place, it’s pretty much word for word my life experience. I. was with a guy back when we were 18 and we dated for just over a year, we eventually broke up and went our separate ways, but I always felt a tie to the relationship, that our story was unfinished. Four years later and we are back in each other’s lives writing the rest of our story together. How did you go about writing Unfinished?   The writing and recording process for Unfinished was actually a pretty cool experience. I recorded this song in BC with amazing producers Brian Howes and Jason Van Poederooyen. I flew out and we wrote, along with Nolan Sipe, and recorded two songs in two days, one of them being Unfinished. The experience really pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best way, I didn’t have time to over think how I wanted to sing the song, I just went in the booth and put my emotions out there. What do you have planned for this single and future music?   I’m excited to announce I will be going on a Canada wide radio tour with Unfinished. I’m really looking forward to travelling to all the stations to catch up with everyone. I’m also working on a music video for Unfinished right now and can’t wait to share that with everyone as well. As far as the future, Unfinished is actually part of a new EP I’m releasing soon called “All Woman”. Who are you listening to at the moment?   These are straight from my recently played on Spotify!   The Bones- Maren Morris Uh Huh – Jade Bird Good Time Being a Woman – Emily Reid I Got This – Jerrod Niemann Letter for God – Abhi the Nomad What do you like to do away from music?   Other than music I’m passionate about food, fitness the tv show Friends and hanging with my 5-year-old dog Noko. What is your opinion of the current state of country music in Canada?   I think we have SO much talent in country music here in Canada! Sometimes it still seems as if Canadian artists are seen as less talented or you have to make it big somewhere else to be recognized here in Canada and I’ve never understood why that’s the case. I think we can compete with American artists and that the artists here are equally if not more talented. I wish I knew the solution to change the stigma about the country music scene in Canada not being seen as important as elsewhere. What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020 and beyond?   Well like I said I’m excited to hit the road and visit all the country music stations across Canada. I then have plans to release my new album at the end of 2019. I’ve always said 2020 would be my year, in 2020 it will be 10 years since I graduated high-school. I plan to accomplish big things in 2020 and soar to new heights in my music career. Any secrets that you care to share?   Hmmmm…..  I used to Irish dance as a kid haha. Favourite food and place to hangout?   Pizza and home J https://www.facebook.com/NicoleRayyMusic/

Nicole Rayy

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Nelson BC, with support from surrounding small towns. Nelson is better known for EDM, but we have a small and devout punk/metal/indie scene that runs under Nelson’s pristine tourist-friendly surface.  How did you first become involved in music? Everyone on our board is a music lover or musician. (MASSif is a non-profit, volunteer-run festival run by a board of 6 people.) For me, I started with my mom’s K-Tel records when I was old enough to lift the record needle, and I later stole my brother’s heavy metal tapes in elementary school. I couldn’t decide if I was goth or grunge in high school and now I play drums in an instrumental kraut rock band with my husband and best friend, who are also on the board.  How did MASSiF fest come about? MASSif started as the brainchild of two of our board members, Nelson and Jay. They hosted live to air punk shows in the basement of the community radio station (CJLY) for a few years, and there was always a good turnout. Dayglo Abortions, Shooting Guns, Solids, Bison, LSD and the Search for God, as well as tons of local and touring acts going between Vancouver and Calgary/Edmonton. Eventually we came around to the idea that the town could likely support a heavy music festival. There’s nothing of the sort around here and clearly people would support it.  What does MASSiF aim to achieve? The Kootenay region has great appreciation for arts and culture, but heavy/dark stuff tends to get missed. Knowing the role heavy music played in our lives growing up, we wanted to give the locals the opportunity to see and to inspire them to play indie, punk and metal, which are not well represented around here. Exposing youth to these genres and giving local bands the opportunity to play alongside and meet touring bands are our priorities. To make this happen, MASSif is open to youth and a minimum of 30% of our bands are from the Kootenay region. We regularly hear from people who’ve come to our fest that they get inspired to play, knowing there’s a place they could eventually be on stage. Please tell us about the importance and meaning behind MASSiF focusing on inclusivity: When we hosted our first festival, we had the unanimous observation that with the exception of four people, every musician there was a dude... and we were kind of embarrassed. It wasn’t intentional, but that’s how it goes if you don’t make the effort to include women and non-binary people. So we made a bigger effort to seek out bands with non-male members in our second year, and now it’s our policy that a minimum of 50% of our bands must include at least one woman or non-binary person. We’re also supporting youth by hosting a workshop for teen girls and non-binary to teach them to write music.  We have the privilege of choosing who gets to play our stage. So we choose to use this opportunity to make space for women and non-binary people.  MASSiF has sold out already, what makes this fest so unique and special to attendees? It’s the only heavy festival in the Kootenay region. But we really shouldn’t call it a festival—it’s two nights of really loud music from lots of bands in a sweaty old lodge. There’s no press passes, no guest or VIP lists, no pretensions, no riders, no special treatment for anybody. No jerk-ery or cry-babyness is tolerated, but people are generally super cool and stoked to be here. Everybody in the room appreciates this kind of music, and they all know how special it is to be able to see so many bands of this kind in a small venue.  What does an event like MASSiF mean to BC? BC is really focused on the lower mainland but the province is GINORMOUS. We bring a solid, intentionally diverse festival to BC’s interior. Promoters have to make the effort to expose youth to diversity or else we’re just going to keep repeating ourselves. We have to do better. I think having this festival in our province beyond the west coast helps BC to be part of heavy music’s evolution.   What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Grants! We take a bit of breather in October then start planning again in November. Band submissions open January 1st! We have a couple giant, amazing irons in the fire so if our grants pan out, our fifth anniversary is going to legendary.  Who are you listening to at the moment? I tend to listen to Shellac just about every day. They’re just infinitely fascinating to me and they’re nice people! MASSif alumni Dead Fibres, storc, and Kinski are in regular rotation, and I’m gearing up for 2019 by listening to Propaghandi, Summer Cannibals and Wild Powwers.. as well as couple we can’t wait to announce! What do you like to do away from music? Trail running is my favourite thing. We’ve got two dogs, Spicey Chicken Linda Loo and Harlan the darlin', that I run in the mountains with. I’m a documentary photographer so I do something photography-related every day, too.  Where do you envision MASSiF being in 5 years? We’re discussing whether and how to make it multi-venue. But we also really love what we have going. So…. stay tuned! Where do you see hard rock in the future? As long as there is adolescence, there will be a need for hard rock. I just got back from an alpine adventure camp with teen girls where I introduced them to Bikini Kill and Sleater Kinney. Based on their reaction, the future of hard rock is safe in their hands.  Any secrets that you care to share? I am an open book.  Favourite food and place to hangout? Eggs! Damn I love them. Also, potatoes are disgusting unless in kettle chip form.  I love hanging out in my hammock on my deck overlooking the lake, but any mountain summit is pretty sweet, too. 

Bobbi the Co-Creator of MASSiF

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I moved to Toronto about six months ago and I'm absolutely loving it. The music scene is perhaps the most diverse in Canada and the genre crossover here is incredible.  So many great bands I can't even count. How did you first start playing music? I grew up in a musical family so I was exposed to music at a very young age.  I think my first instrument was the banjo when I was in 6th grade, before that I mostly stuck to using the family's Karaoke machine with my brother.  Nickleback's "This is how you remind me" was a pretty integral part of my musical development. What's been happening recently? Shit's been going down in Kashmir I've heard.  And a guy named Andrew Yang wants to offer every American a thousand dollars a month.  Personally though I've been taking it pretty easy.  The summer has been very kind to me, lots of reading in the park, shooting hoops and chatting with friends over drinks until the wee small hours of the morning.   Where and when did you record your debut album 'Listerine Dream'? Listerine Dream was a three-year process and recording took place across the three cities I've lived in during that time: Victoria, Montreal and out here in Toronto.  It might sound grand and expensive but I record everything on my laptop, which means I can basically just keep working wherever I go.  Maybe I'll record the next one in Japan! How did you go about writing the music? Rhythm and melody first.  I've had conversations with friends who say that they can write a song by starting with the lyrics first and I'm always quite jealous of that.  I can only imagine that writing all the lyrics before starting anything else can really help deepen the message behind the song.  Personally though I always start with a little beat, hum a melody and then finally insert syllabically appropriate lyrics at the end. What influenced the sound and songwriting? Oh man, everything really!  I love discovering new art and artists but the joy of discovery is exponentially greater when I hear music from a genre I wasn't previously familiar with.  This year I've taken a pretty deep dive into metal - something I never really listened to before, and that has yet to really influence my sound.  But man, everything.   Music is so cool and there's so much out there, what's crazy to me is that for every popular band, there's probably thousands of other artists of equal measure that I may never get the chance to hear.  I'm going to try and workout a listening regiment so I can burn through as much of the world's library of music as possible before I'm gone. What programs/instruments did you use? I'm a simple man, Logic Pro X with a midi keyboard and my roommate's electric guitar is my usual rig.  However I do find it limiting at times, so I try to jam out ideas live with friends whenever I have the chance too.   What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation process? The creation process is incredibly rewarding.  It's exciting and cathartic and just so healthy.  I feel very lucky to be in a position where I can create art all the time.  What isn't so fun however is the "finishing" process.  I can write songs all day but when it comes time to mix them or do overdubs I get cranky and bored.  My friend Andrew Feels is a good ally for stuff like that.  He's a finisher alright. How did the concept for the 'Shoes' video come about? Stylistically it's a play on Vulfpeck's video editing style.  No need to work on getting fancy zooms and perfect shots right off the bat, instead, shoot wide and have a laugh in the editing process.   Conceptually I think Shoes is sort of a hodgepodge of half ideas synthesized into a single video.  It's funny, I have a few good friends from out west who produce videos under the moniker Ft. Langley.  They're usually my go to guys when I'm in Victoria, but anytime they're not around I find it difficult to justify spending money on a video directed by anyone else.  Instead, I just try and focus my energy on learning how to do it myself, I figure it will help me out in the long run.  For example, my last video, Cinema, was done by me as well, painstakingly, frame by frame, over the course of a week.  It's not easy, and perhaps not as traditionally pretty, but It's fun to be in the driver's seat for both the music and the visuals, and I really like the finished product! Where and when did you film and who with? Shoes is split up between shots of Toronto and shots of Victoria.  It was filmed by myself, Noah O'Neil and Charles-Émile Camiré.  Choreography was handled by Noah O'Neil and Jolen Maclean, and the dancers in no particular order are Me, Shane Hooper, Noah O'Neil, Pierre-Louis Camiré, Andrew Feels, Jen Severtson, Chloé Finch, Nick Joy, Rowan Mackenzie, Ben McCormack, Connor Head, and Gordon Cains.   Also Hazen. What did you most enjoy about the film making process? The spontaneous creation and collaboration.  You may be surprised to know that we actually didn't have a script going in, instead we walked around with some beers and my Huawei P20 (with a built-in Leica lense) and spitballed ideas like "Wouldn't it be funny if Connor walked up a wall?" or "what if instead of shoes, I wore sandals?".  It was a really good time. What's planned for the Shoes video? Total viral domination.  I see you Lil Nas X  Please tell us about your involvement in culture and fashion and what influences you: Brand wise, I'm really into Stór Hestur and Brutto Bambino right now.  Other than that I feel like I'm not much loyal to anything, if I see something I like (within an affordable price range) I will get it and wear it, baby.  It's all about what fits you, we can't all be wearing Polos and Birks. What do you like to do away from music? I'm a huge nerd.  So basically the typical nerd tropes other than D&D, that would require having friends.  I like making and editing short comedy sketches, reading Wikipedia and talking to anybody who will listen. Who are you listening to at the moment? Well god damn, the first single for the new Abbey Road 50 years remix is out and Jesus it sounds good.  Other than that I've gotten back into that classic Laura Nyro record "Eli and the Thirteenth Confession" and I'm also really into YBN Cordae's new project "The Lost Boy", he seems like a really nice guy. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? Lots of content, album two is almost ready to go so expect a couple of singles before Christmas.  I'm also hoping to take a little trip to Japan so if you guys have any contacts lmk. Any secrets that you care to share? Bryce Dallas Howard is Ron Howard's daughter. Favourite food and place to hangout? Favourite food is probably Poké and my favourite hangout spot is most certainly Ted's Collision. https://mouthbreather.ca/  https://soundcloud.com/themouthgod https://www.facebook.com/themouthgod https://twitter.com/themouthgod https://www.instagram.com/themouthgod/

Mouth Breather

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m a Melbourne based artist. Music is a vital part of Melbourne culture, we have a passionate music community who support multiple genres, stand up for equality and help create an opportunity for the industry as a whole. I feel very blessed to be apart of it! How did you first start playing music? I’m not a theory-based musician so my music talent is purely self-taught, although from a young age I developed an appreciation for Electronic Music. I would buy all the Ministry of Sound compilations and play them through my dad's old audio system on repeat, it was probably all the focused listening that lead me to experiment with sound with no real intention. Somehow it turned into a career. What's been happening recently? So much, life’s presenting so many positive challenges that I’m so grateful for. I’m growing into a better version of myself each day which is allowing me to harness my creativity in a new light. I’ve been writing/experimenting new music, developing new visual concepts and re-structuring my live show. Your new single 'Stay' (ft. Blush’ko) is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I wanted to create something fresh and innovative that reflected my own emotions but also allowed me to steer the brand down a new visual avenue. I experimented with some simple synth sounds and came up with the distinct sound that you hear at 0.51 of ‘Stay’, from there my creative juices spilt and the foundation was created. In terms of songwriting I wanted to create a story that reflected ‘taking ownership for your growth’ I feel at times we’re so quick to blame others for our internal issues or rely on another’s energy to hold us up so I sat down with Blush’ko who helped bring that vision to life. How did 'Stay' come about? I was at a breaking point late last year where I lost total control of my vision and purpose for this project. I wanted to write something that represented the push and pull emotions that I was feeling but also shared a fresh perspective. When I listen back to the record I can hear this delicate yet exhilarating pulse which reflects my emotions at the time Where and when did you record/produce? I produced the record in my home studio (a spare bedroom I've claimed as my own) and recorded the vocals in Blush’ko’s studio. What programs/instruments did you use? I use FL Studio 20 as my DAW. Majority of the instruments I use are in the box, I tend to gravitate towards Serum for a lot of my sounds but also find myself experimenting with U-he’s Diva. For a lot of the drums, I tend to mess around and manipulate with samples until I get the vibe right. How and why did you come to work with Blush’ko? I have been friends with Blush’ko for years, it just so happened that we gelled on this track. He’s a born talent with an incredible tone that I’ve loved for so long! What did you most enjoy about working with Blush’ko? I feel comfortable working with him, I can express how I’m feeling and he helps bring the constructs of my life into the lyrical content. He also has a crazy sense of melody that allows the top line to work well in conjunction with the instrumental.  You're playing Beyond The Valley Festival! What do you have in store for this show? Yes! I’m in the process of developing new innovative themes I want to bring into the show that celebrates all that is and all that will be moving forward. I’m developing some stage design concepts and I will most likely bring some feature vocalists up onto the main stage with me! How do you prepare for live shows and what do you most like about playing live? I like to relax and stay calm, not exert any energy and just chill out with the supportive people I have around me. I come from a DJ’ing background so the fact that I get to trigger sound and be busy on stage is really fun.  Please tell us about upcoming releases: I have another single coming out later on this year called ‘Back To Life’ featuring Emma Whines. The record has a distinct energy to it which I love. I’m so so excited to share it with everyone!  Will you be touring any time soon? If so, where and when? I am! I’ll be doing my biggest headline show to date later on in the year. Plus I’ll be performing at For The Love and Beyond the Valley. There’s a few more but I’m unsure if I can say anything right now, keep an eye on my socials! What inspires you to write and perform music? I have so so much to say and express in this life. I feel like I’m this ball of love that sometimes gets misinterpreted because I’m deeply passionate about inspiring others (I just got a little bit emotional writing that haha). So I guess it’s the inspiration comes from wanting to send out ripples of my soul into the universe to help inspire human emotion. If I can inspire one person then I’ve left the world in a better place.  Triple J's Richard Kingsmill + Linda Marigliano have been giving you a good spin lately, what has the effect of this been on you and your music? It’s amazing, besides fist-pumping in my studio by myself it’s an incredible motivator and indicator that what I’m doing is being recognised by presenters who I have listened to for years. This encouragement allows me to delve deeper into my craft and continue to evolve and innovate.  Stay is doing well on Spotify with over 40k streams and playlist adds from New Music Friday AU&NZ (298k followers), House Party (250k followers), Top Shelf Electronic (109k followers), New Dance Beats (88k followers), Indie Arrivals (57k followers) how do you feel about all amazing attention that your music is getting? It’s so surreal, never in a million years did I think it would get received so well, I’m so grateful. It’s kind of funny though, I always have this moment of reflection after a release where I get so overwhelmed that this is my life, I’m just a dude creating music in a spare bedroom at home in Melbourne and somehow I’ve been given an incredible opportunity to share it with the world. What are you listening to at the moment? My playlist selection is all over the shop at the moment. My top 3 tracks right now are -  Claptone - Stronger  SAFIA - Ivory Lullaby  Hmmm what else, oh and I’m loving that Ed Sheeran single ‘Antisocial’ with Travis Scott. When I listen in my car I put the volume on 40 (max) and drive around like I’m in a Grand Theft Auto simulation.  What do you like to do away from music? I’m deeply invested in personal development, I love spending spare time watching educational videos, learning new left of field concepts and developing skills and values that I can bring into my music and life.  What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I’m going into laser focus mode as of now. I start filming new visual content for the next single while preparing my live show and working on new music for 2020. I’m also just taking life as it comes a bit, I’m learning to enjoy the process a lot more as of late, who knows where I’ll be in 6-12 months Any secrets that you care to share? I always close my cutlery draw with a pelvic thrust  Favourite food and place to go out? I love Asian Tapas. My favourite place to eat is Rice, Paper Scissors in Fitzroy, I highly recommend! https://www.facebook.com/londontopazmusic/ https://www.instagram.com/londontopaz_/  https://twitter.com/ldntpz?lang=en

London Topaz

How did Swervedriver form? ADAM: Swervedriver formed out of the demise of another band Shake Appeal. We became bored with what we were doing and decided to do something else. I wrote some new songs and bass player Adi lived in the same house, heard these new songs and said “we should get the band back together but with you singing these songs”. I wasn’t really sure about singing but I had been thinking about getting a new band together so the idea of continuing working with these guys who were like brothers - and one actually was my brother - was a no-brainer. How did you first start playing music? ADAM: I owned a little acoustic guitar when I was about five or six but didn’t really start playing until maybe thirteen. At first the guitar was just a tool for writing songs and I didn’t have it tuned to a recognised tuning, instead I had the bottom two strings tuned low so that I could record ‘bass lines’ with it and the top four I made chords out of. When I say ‘record’ this was just with two portable tape machines where I would overdub very crudely. Despite your inclusion in the “shoegazing” genre, you sounded very different to the majority of the other bands (who also sounded quite different to one another) - was it a hinderance or a help to be lumped into this genre ? ADAM: It was irritating at first because it was a diss but now it’s a hip thing all around the globe, it’s turned out great. There were all sorts of indie rock genres springing up in the music weeklies of the time in order to try and sell the papers. ‘Grebo’ was a term for the psychy punk bands coming out at the time or there was ‘lurch’ which was London’s grunge before grunge really. I feel we could quite easily have been ‘co-opted’ into either of these scenes but we had this more melodic thing happening and the trippier guitar sounds and everything so when we got signed to Creation we got lumped into the ’shoegaze' category instead - so many thanks to whoever chose to do that!  What are your memories of that early 90s scene? ADAM: It seemed a very creative time - a lot of bands running around town playing gigs and putting out debut EPs. It was fun seeing bands when they started out, playing small rooms like the Falcon pub in Camden before they had any records released. We once saw The Flaming Lips play at that place and there were about ten of us in the room, all from bands including all of Swervedriver. Tell us your favourite story about a night out at Syndrome club? ADAM: This is really dumb but has come to mind. A UK music journalist - who now lives in Australia - was writing a weekly gossip column in one of the papers which involved going to all the drinking spots around London and basically writing a load of old crap and one week he showed up at Syndrome with a band but was refused entry. When he wasn’t let in the next week or the one after that he started asking why because he couldn’t write his gossip column properly without access. Eventually someone tells him “oh you know the guy that runs Syndrome also manages Swervedriver right? Didn’t you write a scathing live review of them the other week?” In the end our manager jokingly agreed to let him back in but only if he called him to apologise for the review - which, ridiculously, he then apparently did. That probably illustrates that scene as well as anything else - it could all be a bit like high school sometimes.  You toured with Soundgarden back in the 90’s, can you share a story about the late Chris Cornell from this tour? ADAM: I once played drums live for Soundgarden at the Trocadero in Philadelphia and I’m not sure Chris Cornell ever knew. There was a song he would play solo acoustic and the rest of the band would come off stage before Matt Cameron the drummer went back up to play a drum fill right at the end to close out the song. One night I was hanging around side of stage and I joked to Matt that even I could play that drum fill because I’d seen them play it so many times by this point. Matt said “do it!” and they all pushed me out onto the drum riser. I played the part, Cornell never turned around and I quickly exited stage left. JIM: I taught him the English term for the toilet - “the bog”. The band will be touring Australia in September of 2019, what can we expect from these shows? JIM: A bunch of new numbers and a few regulars. A few new guitar effects pedals to be spotted on the floor no doubt! It should be everything a Swervy fan will have come to expect. We love Australia and the vibe is always positive when we’re there. How do you prepare for each live show? JIM: There’s usually a lot of laughs to be had, and a few drinks. Sometimes we eat together, sometimes apart, sometimes we don’t eat anything at all or not until after the show. Sometimes members are fast asleep right up to stage time, sometimes members are nowhere to be seen. It’s fair to say we have no set pre-show approach or rituals. What do you find most rewarding and also challenging when on tour? JIM: Exploring. We visited the Andy Warhol museum in Pittsburgh earlier this year and took a cab to Pearl Harbour when we played Hawaii – it cost him a fortune to get back to the hotel. Challenges: It’s easier to keep in touch with everyone at home these days obviously with smartphones and so on but those big time zone shifts can create really deep communication issues after a while, beyond the obvious simple time of day differences.  The band released its latest album Future Ruins earlier this year, what influenced the sound and songwriting? ADAM: Lyrically there's a lot about the human condition in the modern electronic world I suppose, digital relationships and being alone in a cyber crowd and how much simpler it could be without it all. It's fair to say there's a modicum of despair at how it can all make your head explode! Musically it all comes from lovely places though. How did you go about writing the music? ADAM: Cherry picking, mixing it all up. Every song isn’t written on a guitar, some songs are even imagined first I would say. You might write something and already have an idea of how it could sound and which instruments to put on it. What programs/equipment did you use to write and record? ADAM: Digitally but all the sounds went through analogue processes also of course. One day in the future people will crave the retro chic of cracked screens on their iPhones I'm sure. Reels of tape are so expensive and hard to get these days it's like writing a novel with a quill.  Where and when did you record and who with? ADAM: We recorded at MAKE Records studio in LA and Seaside Studios in Brighton, England with TJ Doherty engineering. Neither of these spaces exist as a studio any more - they've already moved on Both places had great outboard gear and amps as well as guitars except the owner of the studio in LA is left-handed and so he had all these beautiful guitars which you had to be a southpaw to play properly. How has the bands sound changed over the last 30 odd years?   JIM: Not much! It’s still the sound of a two guitar, four-piece. Sometimes just one guitar riff and sometimes two playing against - or with - each other. Has the process of writing music and recording changed since the early days? JIM: It’s pretty much done on laptops these days: if you want to keep it simple, do it on a laptop, if you want it way more complex, do it on a laptop. Who are you listening to at the moment? JIM: Today I was listening to Billie Eilish, Thom Yorke, The Beatles and the new Africa Express album. And I only just recently discovered the fantastic live Led Zep album “How the West Was Won”. ADAM: The Focus Group and Cavern of Anti-Matter lately spring to mind. What do you like to do away from music? JIM: Pretty keen on gardening in the summer months – very rewarding stuff. Cinema trip once a week. Eating al-fresco is a highlight right now in the British summertime and I just discovered an amazing Mexican restaurant (best I’ve been to) is just down the street from me. World politics: it’s hard to not take a heavy interest these days. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? ADAM: Band-wise we have live shows in Japan, Taiwan, US and UK coming up, as well as Australia of course. Any secrets that you care to share? ADAM: Jimmy only has one leg. That’s why you never see him in shorts. Favourite food and place to hangout in Australia? ADAM: Had an amazing meal at the Jasmin Indian Restaurant in Adelaide once. I think the Aussie cricket team were in that night. Of course we're not playing Adelaide this time as many people have pointed out to me. I always push for it, for the Indian food as much as anything - official word this time was "Adelaide is really tough at the moment". So there you go - don't shoot the messenger!

Swervedriver

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are kind of spread out at the moment, but we have been spending some time in LA and that place is humming! It blew our minds how many musicians or producers you would bump into on the street.  How did you first start playing music? We all got into it differentl. Leon was really into electronic music while he also studied piano when he was younger, Phil did the singer-songwriter gig around pubs in the South West of WA, Liam studied classical music as a kid and then progressed to the drums. It’s a good fit because we can all bring different things to the table. What's been happening recently? We just played our first round of American festivals and the scene over there is truly something! We went from the enormity of a festival like Bonnaroo with 90,000 attendees, to quirky, little festivals like Electric Forest. They were all awesome and proved that the States has a pretty strong festival game, even compared to Australia! Who are you listening to at the moment? Channel Tres. Dope. Who or what influences your sound and songwriting? We get influences from all over. There might be a cool little lick or fill in one track that we incorporate with a groove from another genre and then play around with that. We do try and stay away from listening too closely to what other people are doing otherwise you might start to forget your own direction. You're playing Grapevine Gathering this November, what do you have in store for these run of shows? We have a really energetic live show. We like to start off slow and end with a big dance! How do you prepare for each live show? We get together a few days before the show and make sure we have the set down and make any adjustments we need. Then it’s a few push-ups, a little suckle of Jameson and a good little pre-show warmup speech before we hit the stage. Why did you decide to play Grapevine Gathering and what are you most looking forward to? Because who wouldn’t want to play a festival in the middle of a winery?! Also, really looking forward to seeing Touch Sensitive and Flight Facilities. What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019? Can’t say yet, but we will play a few more shows around the country! Any secrets that you care to share? After a big rinse, we always get a Pho the next day to wash away our sins. Favourite food and place to hangout? South Dowling Sandwiches. Saturday 23rd November - Grapevine Estate, VIC Saturday 30th November - Roche Estate, NSW Sunday 1st December - Sandalford, WA https://www.facebook.com/CrookedColours/ https://www.facebook.com/grapevinegathering/ https://www.grapevinegathering.com.au

Crooked Colours With Liam

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?  For the past 6 years I've been based in Alice Springs, which is known in Arrernte as Mparntwe. The Arrernte people are the traditional custodians of Mparntwe.  Mparntwe/Alice Springs is a unique place that attracts diverse, interesting people which is reflected in its vibrant music scene. There are supportive 'everyone have a go' open mic nights, andbig festivals like 'Wide Open Space' and metal festival 'Blacken'. There is experimental electronic music, bush bands from Aboriginal communities singing in language, an African women's choir, DIY bush doofs…I could go on… How did you first start playing music? My parents got me into guitar lessons at primary school when I was about 10 years old. It was peak Spice Girls/Backstreet Boys era, and I wasn't very enthusiastic but learnt the basics, before quitting in my first year of high school. In my early teens, I got into rock music and I picked up the guitar again, with the desire to learn to sing and play my favourite songs. Writing my own songs grew from there.   What's been happening recently? Right now, I'm at the end of the second day of my 2,297km solo drive from Alice Springs to Melbourne. This is the beginning of my EP Launch Tour.  Before I left I played a very heartening EP Launch show in Mparntwe/Alice Springs to a supportive home crowd.   Your self titled EP is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting? It was really important to me that each song on the EP created the right atmosphere. I wanted the listener to be able to immerse into the feeling created by the song. So this was the main influence on the sound of the EP. Sonically, I was also influenced by Angel Olsen, PJ Harvey and Melody's Echo Chamber.   How did you go about writing the music for the EP? Being my first release, the EP brings together songs that were written over a number of years. The songs on the EP reflect on the creative process - inspiration, struggle and release. From the struggle that is involved in putting your art out there. To cathartic release I've experienced when songwriting and performing.  Where and when did you record? The majority of the EP was recorded last year in Mparntwe/Alice Springs with Dave Crowe (Resin Moon) at Sing Hum studio which is based at artist-run gallery Watch This Space.   Who did you work with during the creation and recording/producing for the EP? In early 2018, I put together a band of local musicians- Rob Wards (drums), Nick Raymond (bass guitar) and Dave Crowe (synth). I recorded my own rough demos of the EP tracks and brought the demos to the band. My demos would generally have ideas for the guitar, drums, synth and bass parts. We further developed the arrangements together as a band. I worked with local producer Dave Crowe (Resin Moon) who recorded the EP in his studio. My collaboration with Melbourne producer Evelyn Ida Morris grew out of a remote artist mentorship, which began with fortnightly Skype chats, and progressed to me traveling to Melbourne in March to work with Evelyn on the mixing of the EP.  What programs/instruments did you use? On the EP I do the vocals, play electric guitar, a bit of keyboard and had fun with a reverb drenched clarinet line - having not played much clarinet since high school. The EP also features my band on drums, bass guitar and synth. It was fantastic to be able to bring in some local guest musicians who played flugelhorn, french horn, trumpet and cello.  What did you find most challenging and rewarding whilst working on this EP? It is challenging to know when to let go of your creations. At times I felt that I could go on refining and adding to the recordings and the mixes forever. There were many rewarding moments, what stands out in my mind now is listening to the final mix and master in my headphones, while walking up a hill in the bush land near by where I live, and realising it has all come together.  What are your plans for the EP? It was so exciting to release the EP out into the world, just over a week ago, and to launch it in Mparntwe/Alice Springs. It was a dream come true to be able to print the EP on vinyl. I can't wait to share it on my EP Launch Tour.    What do you like to do away from music? I love reading, taking our dog Bowie for a jog in the bush near my house, and sharing a meal and wine with friends.  Who are you listening to at the moment? Today, on day two of my solo drive from Alice Springs to Melbourne, I was listening to South Korean band JAMBINAI. It surprisingly was the perfect accompaniment to the rugged vast landscape, and particularly the stretch where the red sand dunes meet a glimmering salt lake.   Otherwise, lately I've been listening to Sharon Van Etten's deliciously dark and synth-filled new album, SASAMI, Jenny Hval and Kevin Morby.   You've got a few tour dates lined up, where are you headed and what do you have in store for these shows? I'm pumped to be playing in Brunswick, my old stomping ground, on 22 August at The Retreat Hotel supported by Hannah Potter and Numbat. Followed by a road trip to Adelaide, where I'm playing an afternoon show at the Grace Emily Hotel supported by Elli Belle on 1 September. I'm also playing Darwin Festival, a free show at the Festival Hub, on 16 August.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? After the EP Launch Tour, I'm planning on doing some overseas travel to recharge my batteries. And when I return, I'll focus in on songwriting and planning the next phase.  Any secrets that you care to share? The lyrics of 'Feast', the most angst filled track on the EP, were actually written on day two of a yoga and meditation retreat. Not what I would have expected to come out of that experience. But worked for me in the end I guess?! Favourite food and place to hangout? I lived in Melbourne for 6 years before moving to Alice. For me, Melbourne is synonymous with good food. However, Alice has opened me up to the joy of dinner parties, cooking and sharing food with friends. I'm avoiding the question of what is my favourite…up there would have to be the blissful combination of 'fancy' cheese and a bottle of good red wine. 

BB Sabina

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I am currently based in New York. The music scene here is as eclectic as the population which makes it such an inspiring place for any music lover. How did you first start playing music/singing? I started singing and taking singing lessons when I was twelve.  What's been happening recently? I just released my first track which is something I always wanted to do but waited forever to do. I'm now taking in the fact that my music is finally out there and that "I did it!'. It really feels like I'm willingly stepping into unknown territories and becoming more of myself through music.  I'm also working on new tracks and Dj'ing.  Your new single 'Desire' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting? The sound of "Desire" was inspired by African sounds with a bit of 80's pop. I feel like we live in a world where it can be so easy to forget who we are and let the world around us take us for granted. So I wanted to write a song about the acceptance of my own greatness and about the fact that our time on this Earth is precious therefore we need to give each bit of it not only to what matters the most to us, but also to people who value us. Where and when did you record/produce? The sound of Desire was initially produced and recorded in my home studio in Brooklyn.    Who did you work with during the creation of Desire? I got helped and guided by an incredible producer who goes by the name of Kuvie (currently living in Ghana) who also helped with mixing and engineering.    What do you have planned for desire? We just finished shooting the music video so I’m impatiently waiting for it to come out.    Who are you listening to at the moment? I'm listening to Banks, like a lot! Also Burna Boy's new album, African Giant.  What do you like to do away from music? I just love to create. I have another love and its Fashion, I began a brand called Madame Baloge a few years ago. It focuses on Jewellery and accessories. I also like to spend quality time with good friends. How do you prepare for live performances and what do you most enjoy about performing? I usually need some time with myself in a calm environment so I can prepare myself mentally and what I enjoy the most is sharing my energy and music with others. That's when I feel the most alive.   What do you have planned for the rest of 2019 going into 2020? I have new music I'm working on so I definitely want to release more tracks before the end of the year and DJ more. Any secrets that you care to share? Haha,  it would not be a secret if I shared it ;) Favourite food and place to hangout? Favourite food? Ghanaian jollof rice and favourite place to hang out is by the beach at night! Kind Regards Remina Nair Digital and Print PR Account Manager (by day, gig goer by night) - Ten Letter PR 

Patricia Baloge

Miss Elm x The Partae Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm based in Brisbane. I think it's a great scene! There are so many fun mini and bigger festivals (like Bigsound and Valley Fiesta to name a few) to be part of and there's a really healthy emerging artist scene in the folk/acoustic/singer songwriter realm. How did you first start playing music and especially the Ukulele? I started very young as my father was a jazz musician and was taught classical violin since I was 7. I found the Ukulele when I was bored at a music store and just fell in love with it's diversity and simplicity (simple being the fact you can play so many chords with 1 or 2 fingers, diverse being the size and type of Ukuleles available) What's been happening recently? I just released my new single, and have been developing my new sound as a solo artist. I've been incorporating live looping as well as a blend of different Ukulele sounds. Your new single 'Clean Slate is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I first wrote the song as part of an online community called "I Heart Songwriting Club", where the theme was clean slate and renewal. At the time I'd just left a relationship, and a job, and moved house... so it was very appropriate and the words just fell right out of me within an hour. As far as sound influence; I've been enjoying artists like Billy Eilish and Vera Blue. I love the diversity and simplicity in their music (same as Ukuleles...) I wanted to blend acoustic with electronic sounds like sampled drums etc. How did you go about writing Clean Slate? I plugged my Baritone Ukulele into my new amp, wacked on a whole lot of reverb to set the mood... and sang into the microphone with my phone on record. I think the song wrote through me... it felt like a higher power or something. What is the Meaning behind Clean Slate? Rebirth. Restarting when it seems too late. The truth is... it's never to late to begin again. I had to face a lot of truths at the time of writing, and it was my way of detoxing. Please tell us about the creative process involved with Clean Slate? I would say it was a smooth process... it was a matter of being mindful and non judgemental and letting whatever words and chords come through me without second guessing them or trying to control them too much. Where and when did you record? I recorded the song earlier this year in April at my friend Shaun O'Brien's apartment. He's an amazing producer (check him out). What programs/instruments were used? We used Logic, my Baritone Ukulele, a bit of electric guitar, LOADS of layered vocals and plug ins to create a fun poppy sound. Who did you work with during the creation, recording and production? When I was first writing it.. it was a solo project but I enjoyed getting a 2nd opinion with Shaun regarding production and recording. What did you learn through the process of creating Clean Slate? I learnt the beauty of creating something with full acceptance of whatever came out at the end of the tunnel. Who are you listening to at the moment? Aurora, Billy Eilish, Kim Churchill and a mixture of artists from the 60s, 90s and 00's What do you like to do away from music? I love to spend time in nature, and have recently got into tap dancing! Tell us more about your passion playing Ukulele: Ukulele is like a lifeline to me. It brings me so much joy and you can really find a way to play anything on Ukulele. I've played everything from ACDC to Chopsticks... it's potential is unlimited! How did you first begin to teach Ukulele and what do you most enjoy about teaching? I first began as a side income to continue working in music... but it quickly grew into an obsession. The most rewarding thing is gifting people the chance to play something they never thought they could (particularly adults who might have missed the chance to play music as a child), and seeing the ripple effect of joy. Just today I had a student sing beautifully (for the first time in front of someone) and play the Ukulele after telling me she never believed she'd be able to create music for herself. She had spent so much time helping her son learn an instrument that she had no time for herself. She is now one of my best students and absolutely lights up when she plays..it's magic. Please tell us about the Ukulele workshops that you run: I run workshops for all different kinds of groups and ages. I have worked with sporting teams, children, aromatherapy and adult ukulele classes. I'm always on the lookout for new collaborations with Ukulele and Mindfulness, and now also run a group community class once a week for all levels. You're also making Ebooks, please tell us how this came about, what's involved and what is within the Ebooks: I make Ebooks to help people learn the Ukulele (my side project is called Elmukulele..Google it..) I make ebooks on everything from chord charts to fingerpicking. I enjoy creating things for people that might not have musical backgrounds to understand and get started on the Ukulele when I can't physically teach them. I also do Youtube Tutorials. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I have a music video coming out soon for Clean Slate which I'm excited to share (there's some beautiful animations involved). I'm also looking forward to more live shows and recording as I'm writing a new song a week and can't wait to get back into the studio. Any secrets that you care to share? In January I went on a tangent and half booked a trip to work at a Sloth Sanctuary in Costa Rica.... but once I wrote Clean Slate I decided to spend the money on the single instead... I think it was a good decision (you be the judge?) Favourite food and place to hangout? Food; Stir Fry, Place: The Botanical Gardens

Miss Elm

ARNO FARAJI

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Melbourne. I think it’s pretty notorious for its diversity. It’s a thriving scene and Victoria has great initiatives that support live music and the arts. How did you first start playing music? My parents bought me a Casio when I was, like, 5 and I started writing them songs. What's been happening recently? I’m just wrapping up a mammoth national headline tour off the back of a national tour with Peking Duk. I’m looking forward to finishing up my debut album and reading books in sunny locations. Who are you listening to at the moment? Tyler, Kaiit, Katy Perry, Kllo, Thelma Plum, PNAU and I’m smashing Silverchair’s Diorama on a daily basis atm Who or what influences you sound and songwriting? I’ve always been inspired by strong, iconic lead females like Cher, Grace Jones, Madonna, Celine, Aretha, Nina, Rihanna, Janet, etc. In terms of writing, I am really enjoying just making myself laugh. I’m a sucker for a pun or a dirty joke. You're playing Grapevine Gathering this November, what do you have in store for these run of shows? I have some new tunes of the upcoming record that I’m road testing.  I’m most excited about that. How do you prepare for each live show? These days I like to spend as much time alone as I can, blast my humidifier and do a long warm up and just relax. Right before we go on, my band and I do a shot of vodka and bounce around to strong tune before coming out. It’s usually Pnau’s Save Disco. Why did you decide to play Grapevine Gathering and what are you most looking forward to? They made me an offer I couldn’t refuse. I love wine ... so I guess the wine? I’m sure the whole thing will be great. What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019? I’m mainly going to focus on my album. Any secrets that you care to share? Not really Favourite food and place to hangout? Los Hermanos in Melbourne do a mean taco and Good Times is lit. http://www.kirapuru.com/ https://www.facebook.com/kirapuru/ https://www.instagram.com/kirapuru/

KIRA PURU

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based in Mollymook NSW, there isn’t really a huge music scene there, but it connects up to Wollongong and the amazing community of festivals and concerts in that area.  How did you first start playing music? When I was 4 I started learning the violin, then piano, then wrote my first song at 9 or so about a farm being developed into blocks of land.    What have you been up to lately? Swimming, working, writing, working on the next chapter of Jack River.  Who are you listening to at the moment? Tame Impala.  Who or what influences you sound and songwriting? Honestly, everything, but: my heart influences songwriting, and how I feel about the world influences the production and sound I wanna make.    You're playing Grapevine Gathering this November, what do you have in store for these run of shows? We will very likely have some brand new music to give audiences, along with a list of the best songs from Sugar Mountain. The sounds I’m making are changing, I’m excited to see how they play out live.  How do you prepare for each live show? Preparation for shows involves a couple of days of rehearsal with the band and production team, thought and planning on styling and imagery, preparing physically (running, chilling, swimming), and then travelling to the show and staying healthy along the way. Being a singer means your body is the instrument, so I stay pretty aware of that and don’t drink alcohol for a week or two in preparation for shows too!  What makes these run of shows to special? Playing outside in places outside of the city is very special.  When you're not playing music what do you like to do? I work fulltime on my music business, and direct two music festivals (Grow Your Own & Electric Lady). Along with these things, I love to write, surf, swim, read the paper on a Saturday and keep up to date with the planet haha.  What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019? Working on my next release and festivals, hanging out with my new pup and learning more! Any secrets that you ? Hmm, a music related secret is that I am extremely excited to share a whole new chapter and realm of music/vision with my audience.    Favourite food and place to hangout? Raspberries are my favourite thing at the moment haha, and home, by the sea, is my favourite place to hang out ; ) https://www.jackrivermusic.com https://www.facebook.com/jackrivermusic/ https://www.instagram.com/jack_river/

Jack River

What is your name and role within AM RERUNS?   Andy Campbell - guitar player, frontperson, singer, writer. Mostly guitar player. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We're from Melbourne and based here. There are a lot of little music scenes here for different types of music, and to a degree they're starting to converge which is really exciting. You can see diverse bills here the likes of which just wouldn't have happened four to five years' ago. I'm very proud to be from a city that so actively pushes for diversity and inclusion. And I genuinely think some of the best music in the world right now is being made here.  How did you first start playing music? I saw this long odd shaped thing with strings on it, and thought, "I can do that." It was really like that. I was mesmerised by guitars as a kid. When my older brother got one it was immediately the most important thing in the house to me. And then one day, I took it to school and that was it. It was mine and he never got it back! How did AM RERUNS form? Hmm… well, I just called up Dan our bass player and Pam (our first drummer) and we got together. None of us were sleeping on Venice beach, sorry to say! We knew each other from Box Rockets gigs at The Great Britain Hotel (RIP). Shauna and I started chatting on Instagram about WIRE. And then we hung out and I asked her to play some shows with us.  What's been happening recently? We'll I've been listening obsessively to The Only Ones. I've been trying to find the clothes that Peter Perrett wore in 1979. I've been writing some new riffs. And in the past month our gigs have been the best we've played.  Your self-titled album with be released on the 9th of August, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? A few things… The Replacements, a bit of Berlin by Lou Reed, and my favourite classic new-wave and rock'n'roll. So, The Everly Brothers, Johnny Marr, Magazine, Patti Smith Group, Iggy and The Stooges, Blondie, The Plimsouls. The words are about… adolescence, people I've lost in my life, and various ways of describing panic attacks and ways to disappear. Then again some of them are a big joke. "Looking For A Victim" is largely a list of absurd fears propagated by News Corp/the Department of Homes Affairs. "Formal Night" is an Everlys pastiche about going to the school formal on your own. How did you go about writing the album? I lived alone when I started writing the music. Flunking uni, watching B grade horror films on SBS On Demand and wearing my guitar 12 hours a day. This was probably my first decent 'batch' of songs, so to speak. I had to figure out how to write songs… there was a lot of trial and error. I wrote all the music first, and did the vocals and lyrics at the end. Most of it was written over an eight-month period. I learned not to get attached to any one riff or song. You're always better off writing another one before you get too attached to your latest one. And with that detachment your work will be better. Once the band was formed we arranged all the music together, Dan wrote some outrageous bass lines and started singing harmony. Pam's drum parts are very unique, maybe on the slicker side of post-punk. Her playing is not unlike Dennis Davis' playing on Bowie's LP "Low." And that's not excessive praise at all. What programs/equipment did you use? I used a Japanese Fender Jaguar for the whole record, plus my white Strat and a custom made T-Guitar. The Jaguar belonged to our recording engineer Robert Muinos and he's sold it since. So it's out there somewhere. I did the vocals in my partner's house, and made a pop filter from black stockings, a coat hanger, a rubber band and a toilet roll. There's a pic of it on Instagram. Where and when did you record/produce/master? We recorded the album in The Curtin Hotel in Carlton. I put some more guitars on in Robert's home studio, and then Dan and I did most of the vocals in my partner's house. Robert mixed the album and it was mastered by John Davis at Metropolis Studios London. The album is a mixture of super high-end and DIY technology. Who did you work with during the creation of the album? Robert Muinos, as stated; Rhea Caldwell from Baby Blue also does some backing vocals on a track, as does Siobhan McGinnity from MAGNETS. Carl Breitkreuz did the LP sleeve. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the production process? The singing. And writing the lyrics. I enjoy singing and writing words, but this is the first band where I've taken those duties on. I did lots and lots and lots of vocal takes. I basically learned to sing as we recorded. That's why it took a good 12 months to finish the album! What do you have planned for the album? It'll be out on all the digital stores/streaming services on Friday 9 August. There's a vinyl LP release planned which should be in stores in early September. You'll be playing shows in August and September across Australia to support the album, what do you have planned for these shows? Let's see… we are a loud rock'n'roll band. It will be our usual, x 10. There will be lot of attitude, style and volume, and 10 banging new-wave songs. Our supports are absolutely excellent, and you'll be able to buy our vinyl LP! How did you prepare for live shows? I must have done 300, and to be honest I still don't know. I do my hair, I dress sharp. In small pubs you don't necessarily get "alone-time," so I just try to go with the flow of whatever's happening. Matching the vibe of your surrounds is important. At a festival I play my guitar for about 30 mins before a show. I usually play "Some Girls Are Bigger Than Others", "Gimme Danger", or the "The Last Time." I think about what I love so much about rock'n'roll. What do you like to do away from music? Not a lot to be honest. But I read the classics - I'm reading Percy Byshe Shelley and Susan Sontag right now - and I write comment pieces and occasionally send them to magazines. I drink a lot of coffee and hang out with my partner and our cat. Who are you listening to at the moment? The Only Ones! "Even Serpents Shine." Also "Moving Parts" by Pinch Points. The Best Of Smokey Robinson & The Miracles. What's planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? After our tour, there will be more shows to see out the year, and we'll carrying on writing the second album. We've already got 5 songs. We'll probably begin early next year with a new single. Any secrets that you care to share? Yes, and they're secreted deep within the songs on "AM Reruns." Favourite food and place to hangout? Donuts of all kinds. Hangouts are Rocksteady Records and Nighthawks. TOUR DATES: Friday 9th August 2019 - The Last Chance, Melbourne Wednesday 11th September 2019 - Valve Bar, Sydney  Thursday 12th September 2019 - Sideway, Canberra  Friday 20th September 2019 - The Eastern, Ballarat  Saturday 21 September 2019 - Nighthawks, Melbourne https://www.facebook.com/amreruns/

AM Reruns

What is your name and role within the band? John Barrett, principal songwriter/guitar/vox. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? NYC. It’s really good right now, there are a bunch of bands like Surfbort and Dirty Fences that are really smoking it at the moment. How did Bass Drum Of Death form? In my room in Mississippi like 11 years ago. I started recording by myself and it just kinda went from there. How did you first start playing music? My parents got me an electric guitar for christmas one year; I had been fooling around with guitar for a minute before that, but getting an electric guitar really ramped it up. How has the music and dynamic changed since the early beginnings? The production/sound quality has gotten a little bit cleaner, but I always try to keep the same energy songwriting-wise that I’ve had since the beginning. What's been happening recently? We just finished up a big fall/spring touring cycle, which included 2 US tours and 2 EU tours. Your album Just Business was released late last year, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? I tried a few things that were kinda out of left field compared to my past stuff (“heavy”), and we put a lot of time into crafting the production to be as interesting as possible, with backing vocals/percussion etc. How did you go about writing the music? I had written a bunch of the record kinda gradually over the previous 2 years, but we did a couple in the studio on the spot. What programs/instruments did you use? We had a pretty simple setup.  i only used one guitar i believe, and we did it in a studio to pro tools. How has the album been received by your fans? It’s been great!  it was nice to try a few new things and have people dig it. Who are you listening to at the moment? Faux Ferocious, Strand of Oaks, Young Dolph. What do you like to do away from music? Play golf. You last toured Australia in 2015 with DZ Deathrays and Hockey Dad to raving reviews, you'll be hitting Australia again in October 2019, what do you have in store for these shows? Well I think we have 2 more albums of material since we were last there, so it’ll be good to rip some of the newer stuff for people that haven’t seen it live yet. What are you most looking forward to? VB tinnies. How do you prepare for each show? 2 beers and a shot of tequila. Any shows that you're most looking forward to playing? If so, why? Farmer and the Owl fest will be fun, we played it in 2015 and it was amazing! What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Working on a new record, and continuing to tour after that’s wrapped up. Favourite food and place to hangout in Australia? Meat pies, the Brightside in Brisbane. TOUR DATES: Thursday 3rd October 2019 - The Curtin, Melbourne Friday 4th October 2019 - The Lansdowne, Sydney Saturday 5th October 2019 - Yours & Owls Festival, Wollongong Sunday 6th October 2019 - Crowbar, Brisbane

John Barrett of Bass Drum Of Death

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like? I am currently based on a sofa somewhere in North London, with a cup of tea within reach. The music scene here is pretty good; there is a friendly piano and a purring fender rhodes, a harmonium that squeeks and a children’s drumkit. There are also some instruments from around the world - some gamelan pieces, a mbira, a chinese gong. Upstairs there is Sam’s den which has trumpets, trumpets and more trumpets, and Kai has a meowing cat keyboard. Outside my house the music scene is a colourful joyous meltingpot with people from all over the world, which was my main reason for staying here after I first arrived as an exchange artstudent.   How did you first start playing music? When I was 14 I walked into a bar and there was a really tall dude playing the piano. I asked if I could sing a song with him – of all songs, I chose Bohemian Rhapsody! But apparently it went down well as after that, I sang there every week and the guy gave me a guitar, which I called Gerard. At first I didn’t dare to play and just stared at the guitar, feeling rather shy. But once I picked it up, I started to write my own songs on it, one of the first was called Pink Serenity, and took to the streets, busking. From there, I got swept off my feet and taken on a musical rollercoaster ride of exuberant adventures.   What's been happening recently? I have been recording my album, Kaleidophone. And making music videos for the songs, with my brother Kai Nobuko. We make everything ourselves, including the costumes and props.   You have a new single 'Soul Siren' that's soon to be released, what influenced the sound and songwriting for Soul Siren? Soul Siren is a love letter to the Universe. It’s about that feeling when something is just about to happen - you have been through something intense and you have overcome it and now your heart is racing with a gentle excitement. You seem to be outside of time, in a state of liminal bliss of the yet unknown soon to unfold. You wake up and the play of golden light trickling through shapes of trees invites you to open the curtains immediately, and greet the world with your smiling heart. Everything you hear, see, smell and feel sings to you; radiates with life, with colour, with soul. And now imagine you can be the truest essence of yourself; no fear or doubt or conditioning or anyone else telling you what you can or can’t do; you are Infinite, you are the Universe, and you and everything in this universe are connected - each thing in this universe contains all the other things in this universe. Your heart is ablaze, aglow, you are ready.   How did you go about writing Soul Siren? I was doing a gig in Amsterdam and my friend Scale joined me on stage for a jam. He is a beat boxer from Belgium. So we just started to improvise, he made some beats and I enjoyed the flow of creation. Luckily he recorded it all, and sent it to me, so I then transcribed it and began to transform it, kneading and shaping it. Where and when did you record/produce? The skeleton was recorded in the Cowshed, I played it live with Juba on the drums, July 2017- I was quite pregnant and the baby was dancing in my tummy. The rest was done at Cross Lane studios, after my son was born.    Who did you work with during the recording/production? I recorded the live part at the Cowshed, with Joe Leech. We had worked there together before, for Animal Spirit (which was all done live on tape) and some Womp tunes, but Joe had moved back to Australia. When I was pondering about recording the album, I said to the Universe, “oh how I would love to work with Joe Leech!” A few dayslater, Joe mailed me he was- coincidentally - coming to London exactly at the time of the recording. When I started to edit and arrange, Joe recommended Nick Trepka. I had met Nick before but was always a bit shy as he seemed such a Cool Dude. But Nick turned out to be a geek like myself and he has an old Amiga, and he is really awesome and likes Radiohead just as much as I do. We got on so well we decided to finish this album together, co-producing. For Soul Siren, we also worked intensively with Sam Ritchie.   Please describe how you approached the recording for this track? We recorded the live skeleton, no click, and I just overdubbed the synth bass and the siren sound - the nerdburger in me feels the need to mention it was a system100. Then I started to dream up these other sounds, trumpet of course, but also African Kora. Sam played the flugelhorn and trumpet parts here at home and Jally Kebba Susso played his beautiful Kora on a few tracks at Cross Lane.   You have a new album on the way, please tell us how the album came about and what to expect: It all started by accident. I was trying to write some words and melodies for Sam and the Womp - of course you should never “try” to do these things. So to distract myself I started meditating with some instruments - a fender rhodes mostly, but also a harmonium, a piano, a guitar. Sometimes I so happened to press record on my phone recorder. Or in fact, my body did - my mind had nothing to do with it. (The body is clever like that. ) Anyway, at some point I realised I had a collection of sketches. They seemed to be channeled straight from the universe. Letters to myself, and those closest to me. Messages from my Universe self to my human self. (My human self is a clown named Henk and my Universe self is Oo , and Oo is an Instrument of Imaginative Revelations. ) I started working on these sketches. Whilst doing the dishes, whilst walking in the woods with my child, whilst nursing her to sleep, whilst travelling to gigs, whilst being awake when all others were sleeping. And behold, unfold, and there it was: Kaleidophone. I had known this title would become ‘something’ for a very long time, but only once this constellation of songs presented itself to me, I knew this was it. I thought, yes, let’s record it live- drums, vocals, rhodes. 3 days, 9 songs. We did it, but then I started to hear all this other colourful stuff. Trumpets, of course. Gamelan. Some Kora. Strings. Cats. Household items and other objects and trees whispering their joyful secrets. “Here we are and we and everything in this world has a Soul and you are our Soul Siren.“ So of course, I could only comply.   Will you be releasing more singles prior to the release of the album? Yes! There are at least 4 lined up.   When will your album be released? When it is readyJ We’re nearly there. There are still about 4 tunes to finish off, they basically just need the cherries on top. And strawberries. And maybe some chocolate sprinkles.   Your know for being musical and visual artist, how do you combine these two area's? I have this thing called Synaesthesia. Basically, all my senses are intertwined, and one sensory impulse triggers another. This means that when I hear music, I ‘see’ it too – in colours and shapes, sometimes whole stories, textures and light intensities. I would like to convey this experience to the audience as well, by creating a world of sound and image that appeals to and triggers the viewer’s and listener’s own imagination.   How did you get involved in visual arts? When I was 20 I lived in Paris for a few months, to record some demos. But even though I did write a few songs, I was going through a strangely dark transformational process, and mostly went out for walks. It was winter. The apartment I lived in had no windows and sometimes I had no idea if it was day or night. I had no money and made pancakes, every day. ( i am now an excellent pancake maker).But every day I would go out and walk and walk and look and walk and seek and look and question and wonder and wander and feel and smell and hear and see and walk. It was like the world outside me was a great projection of the world within me. I would see some things that shocked or surprised me. These interested me the most. I would walk for hours until I would receive some kind of revelation, and then would climb Mont Martre and gaze at the whole world beneath me. Sometimes I would feel enlightened, infinite, and full of bliss. But each next day would present another puzzle, and always started again from darkness, heaviness. Lately I have been thinking about this time, as it quite defined me. All the songs I wrote there were rubbish, but whenever friends came to visit me, a lot of silly and ridiculous fun was had. But mostly I was alone, and time did not exist, and I was simply Being and Becoming. Then one day I had enough, and came back to Holland and enrolled into Art School.   What is it about visual arts that you find most appealing? That without using words, you can communicate to people’s hearts at once. The same is true for music of course. One of the finest examples of this is that after seeing a Dream Society video we did called Rise of the Foodsoldiers - a music video in which all the weapons in the world are joyfully transformed into food - a guy came up to us and told us he used to be in the army, but after seeing the video he decided to follow his heart and apply for art school.   What do you like to do away from music? I like to bake vegan cakes and walk in the woods and make things for and with my children. Listen to the sound of the sea whenever I can, and write my morning pages before everyone wakes up.   Who are you listening to at the moment? Toxic Chicken - Noodle Soup   What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Release the other singles, finish off the album, make some more videos, play lots of live gigs, unleash myself upon this world in a generous and playful way.   Any secrets that you care to share? I can’t show my 5 year old daughter the video for Soul Siren because when she saw the scene in which ‘the Universe’ eats a plate, she was very upset and cried, “but mummy, why are you eating a plate? You can’t eat a plate!”   Favourite food and place to hangout? Vegan mushroom croquettes are good. They have really good ones in café de Ceuvel in Amsterdam. www.bloomdewilde.com https://Instagram.com/bloomdewilde https://www.facebook.com/bloomdewilde https://soundcloud.com/bloomdewilde https://twitter.com/bloomdewilde

Bloom de Wilde

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based on Barcelona, I studied here and now I work here and have my own studio and there is all that I need. I think the scene is growing up again since some years ago, and there are people working hard and interesting things are happening in the city but I think there are a lot of limitations because of the government and neighbourhood and we are still far from other big cities. What do you think about the current electronic scene in Europe at the moment? I think we are in a very good situation at the moment. Electronic music is expanding for all countries and all ages. Young people starts listening to electronic music very early and I think it’s a positive thing. A lot of festivals and clubs are betting for electronic music so I like it.  How did you first start playing music? I started playing drums and percussion at the age of 13. Then, I were playing a futsal tournament when I was 14 and a DJ was playing some techno stuff. I fell in love with it and decided to learn DJing immediately. Then, I started producing when I was 16.  What's been happening recently? I’ve been working a lot in my studio, looking for new sounds and new shit meanwhile I was working as sound engineer and as a teacher. Your new EP 'Birth' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting? I think I was influenced a little by Bicep with the sound, I love their vintage vibes and melodies and I think I was influenced by them unintentionally. I like a lot of artists but I try to focus on my own music and sound to develop my own signature.  How did you go about writing the music for this EP? I received two amazing pieces of hardware when I was at Christmas holiday: Elektron Analog Rytm and the Roland Galaxy Tape Echo SE-201. I couldn’t wait so the EP was a result of jamming a lot with my hardware and then fixing some things on the production stage.  What programs/equipment/instruments did you use to write and record the EP?   I use Ableton Live 10 as my centerpiece where all converge. I use analog hardware like my Elektron Analog Rytm and Korg Volca Kick for my drums, Juno-6, Yamaha DX27s and Arp Odissey as my main synths and I have a few pedals like the Roland SE-201, Strymon Big Sky, MXR Distortion, a Chorus/Flanger and a Delay. I also use plugins like UAD stuff, Fabfilter and more. To record it, I have a Kahayan Epsilon 32-500 as the main summing device, with an EQ and a Bus Compressor from Bettermaker and Wes Audio and I finish my mix bus with an Avalon 747sp processing.  How do you go about finding the equipment and how do you decide that a piece of equipment to use? I don’t like sounding like most of people so I try to find synths that allow me to develop my own sound. I try to find some way to taste synths (friends, shops (like Musicom, highly recommended), etc.). For instance, I love Moog sound but everyone that starts buying hardware nowadays, they will buy a Moog so I won’t buy it at the moment. I think that a very important part of my worklow is routing my sounds through pedals. Juno-6 is fantastic, but try running the Juno-6 through distortion, space echo and the big sky and... What is it about analog synths that you like? I like vintage synths that offers me the vintage vibes or the new synths that do crazy new stuff. I also like the modular world but I can’t start with it at this moment, so I’m patching sounds with VCV Rack and crazy things with Max 4 Live haha. Where and when did you record/produce? I recorded my EP when I came back from my Christmas Holidays, on January and it was in my studio in Barcelona. Do you work with anybody else? Yeah, I have a few collabs I think will be finished before Summer ends and I work as a Mastering engineer with some clients.  Please tell us about how you approached the recording/production of the Birth EP: Jamming a lot with my new babies and synths. Editing and producing the tracks so it was all clean and good. Taking care about structures (I think the most important thing these days along having a delicate sound design). What do you like to do away from music? I love Sports, Mountain, Wine and cooking. I also love driving Motorbike or Car.  Who are you listening to at the moment? It’s a difficult question because I love a lot of artists. From the current electronic music scene I would say Nils Frahm, John Talabot and Mano Le Tough.  What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019 going into 2020? I’ve finished an album, that will see the light at the end of this year and I have two EPs ready too. I will start my live set touring with the album and expect some good DJ sets too. Where do you see yourself in a few years? I really don’t know hahah. I try to think only about present and going the right way. Step by step, but lead steps.  Any secrets that you care to share? A secret... maybe that I’m vegan. I don’t tend to say it to everyone because I hate telling all my live through Social Networks or public ambients.  Favourite food and place to hangout? My favourite foods are two typical catalan dishes: “Calçots” (a type of onion more or less that’s eaten often with romesco sauce) and “Rovellons” (a type of mushroom). I hate that I can’t eat them together because they are from different seasons, for this reason is not a single dish.  https://www.instagram.com/lineindorian/ https://www.facebook.com/lineindorian/

Line In Dorian

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I am based on the Mornington peninsula, the music scene is great! There are so many venues and bands I am a genuine fan of, and emerging into the scene I have been exposed to lots of opportunities and lovely people who love what they are doing.  How did you first start playing music? I started playing music by singing in primary school, at the time Adele was my absolute idol and I was pretty set on becoming a 'famous singer' as I used to tell everyone. Around the same time I like many others, was inspired by the Beatles to learn piano and ukelele then eventually guitar.   What's been happening recently? Since schools back, I've returned to my balancing act of music, school and trying to be social and healthy. Which has been going pretty good so far! Being busy is good for me.  Your latest single 'Bleeding Wasteland/Japanese Departures' is out today, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I was listening to a lot of Camp Cope and was having a fall out with a friend. Also, I was getting into self-care, and doing things brand new to me like joining the gym, meditating and all that fun stuff. So all those experiences moulded into a punk song with positive overtones.  How did you go about writing 'Bleeding Wasteland/Japanese Departures'? Just in a single intense solitary sitting, I seem to be doing that a lot recently.. me, my guitar, notebook and laptop. I have figured out a songwriting formula that works for me, I've written so many songs this last week that some will have to wait as long as mid next year to see the world.   Where and when did you record and who with? We were lucky enough to work again with the talented Jordan Finlay from Teenage Dads (

Bridget Allan

Brandishing polished rock melodies, yearning vocals and tight execution of modern rock and indie sounds, Sydney’s Polymer debut their new single ‘Believers’. Taken from the band’s forthcoming debut LP Zealots Box and ensuing NSW shows, ‘Believers’ is a striking example of the band’s versatility and ability to couple the harder hitting, Queens of the Stone Age-esque sounds on Zealots Box, with music that showcases vulnerability and emotional relatability.    The trio, who formed in 2018, are all seasoned musicians in their own right, establishing themselves on Sydney’s rock scene in various projects and collaborations including Age Of Menace and Samsara. Together, Anthony Semrani (vocals/guitar), Constantine Kotsiras(drums) and Adam Barns (bass) have poured years of experience into this debut Polymer effort - the final result, a polished and impactful collection of rock music with their own trademark firmly stamped. "We were once believers,” Semrani sings, his voice echoing and threading through a solid combination of melodic rock a la Foo Fighters and Kings of Leon. The delivery of the lyrics and melodies offer moments of optimism, as Semrani leads the listener out of a darker narrative. 'Believers’, along with the rest of Zealots Box, came together through sessions at a warehouse studio in Kingsgrove, produced and mixed by Andrew Covell before final mastering touches were applied by Sydney’s DB Mastering. Having the freedom to record in this warehouse environment, untethered by time restrictions, gave Polymer the opportunity to delve further into the musical influences they shared and brought to the process individually, poring over creative ideas that would soon flourish. “All our music has some serious undertones that inspire each track, be it a personal experience, or world events, we definitely have some strong opinions on a lot of things. Luckily we can express them, albeit under the guise of music.” Polymer.

Polymer

We’re already halfway through the year, how’s 2019 been for you so far? yes 2019 is crazy!We can tell you that at the beginning of January, we never imagined what is happening today for GoldStone. As an act that’s pretty new onto the scene, please can you tell us a bit about yourselves and the Goldstone project? I met Manu in a music shop,he bought a drum and I helped him to put it in his car then we discovered that our own studio were very closed in Paris.  So we have lunch every day together and one day he listened my demo of « All I Know » and he wanted to do something better with it. Where are you guys from? We are from Paris,10 eme arrondissement canal st Martin and we love our bloc. Can you tell us a bit about the music scene there? The music scene in France is very active.   A lot of young artists are coming out now!  Orelsan is fat and -M- still a big French Artist working with so many internationals stars.  And of course,Daft Punk,Breakbot,Cassius,Justice.... Your new single ‘All I Know’ on Wagram Music is dope! Can you talk to us a bit more about the single? The melody came on a little groove composed on a yukulele.  You can hear it alone with the voice at the beginning of the tracks. Do you each have different roles in the studio? Yes both of us have a studio!  We can say that Manu is more producer and me more musicien!  But also he can compose and I can produce. How did the introduction to Wagram Music come about? We know Wagram for a long time.  The boss Stephane Bourdoiseau likes the tracks and said let’s go for it very quickly.  Merci Stephane. The music video has already surpassed 120,000 views on Youtube. That’s crazy considering it was only released a week before this interview… oui c’est fou! Loving the video! Whose idea was it to shoot the video in South Africa? Manu said we need kids in the song and we need kids in the video, then,I show him a fb video I flashed on and he flashed on too! In terms of inspiration, which artists are you digging the most right now? Right now we love Toro y moi,Anderson paak... If you could work with any artist, alive or otherwise, who would it be? Both of us are really crazy about Prince. As a new act, how hard has it been to break into the scene and what advice would you give to any budding producers thinking of doing the same? We think that we are very lucky to be on the radio and we know how difficult it is to exist with your own music! Still believe in your work! What else are you guys working on that you can talk about right now? A EP is coming out with the 3 remix One is from Breakbot! So proud We love his work! Any final words for our readers? Joy for children and the world will follow.

Goldstone

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I live in sunny Perth but the band is in Melbourne. Perth music scene is growing fast thanks to more new venues and Andrew at Around The Sound. You recently moved from Melbourne back to Perth, how do the music scenes differ? I would say the music scene in Perth is a little more intimate. People are really excited to be there. Melbourne feels more commercial. How did you first start playing music? I started on Trumpet playing in orchestra and concert bands. I grew tired of classical and picked up guitar to write songs. What's been happening recently? I run a label called Doomity Records where I showcase similar artists on a playlist. Lincoln Mackinnon, The Little Lord Street Band and Dan Howls. I’ve also been coaching emerging artists and pitching to curators OS. Your new single 'The Sun' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? The Sun started from an acoustic experiment but listening to it now I hear a bit of RHCP and Millencolin. Where and when did you record? We started tracking a few years back with Damien Young at Pony Music. The legendary Mark Kennedy joined us with percussion and Barney Loveland did the mastering. What programs/equipment did you use? The studio at Pony was well equipped and Mark came along with a bag of tricks in percussion. In ‘The Sun’ we patched in cool sounds similar to effects in Star Wars. Who produced this track and how was the experience? Myself and Mark Kennedy did the producing with tips from my favourite human Damien Young. It was a great vibe. Great professionals. Which artists did you work with and how did things unfold? Cory Jach, Barney Loveland and Dave Puopolo are full-time musicians so it made life super easy. How did you go about writing The Sun? The song started by bashing an acoustic at a friends house one night and the lyrics just fell from the sky. I couldn’t stop playing it for at least six months. I hear you have an album in the works, what can we expect? Definitely eager to put out an album next year. I feel it will hold the best of my songwriting so it’s important to get it right. There will be some big rock tracks surrounded by more relaxed Americana and roots-based tunes. Who are you listening to at the moment? Lately I’ve been playing the Doomity indie/ alt-country playlist on Spotify which holds pretty much all of my favourites. What do you like to do away from music? Outside of music, I’m a mad Essendon supporter in the AFL. I love the ocean and Alexandria Ocasia-Cortez. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? The rest of the year is filled in with shooting more music videos and a well needed holiday. Any secrets that you care to share? Secrets hmmm....don’t trust the government? Favourite food and place to hangout? I dig Japanese food and hanging out in the health food section. Official Website | Spotify | iTunes | Facebook | Soundcloud | Insta: @tobiaswonderdog

Tobias Wonderdog

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there?   Glasgow, Scotland.  Glasgow has always been a mecca for musicians far & wide, and the scene benefits from this no end.  Like how our famous River Clyde brought the world to our doorstep with shipbuilding/trade hundreds of years ago, & with it, different cultures & arts that can still be seen/inspired in our buildings and culture.  Same goes with the music that flows through the city – makes it one of the best Music cities on this planet.   How did you first start playing music? At school, they offered free 30 min piano lessons that got you out of other (boring) classes no one liked – so I signed up, and the rest is history. What's been happening recently?   It’s all been about the new album ‘COWBOYS & AFRICANS’.  From recording, performing & producing it (with Ross Saunders at Dusty Reel Studios) to working on album artwork / Music Videos (with Gordon Beveridge).  It’s all consuming, just the way it should be. Your single '1985' from your debut solo album 'Cowboys & Africans' will be out August 22, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track and also the album as a whole?   It’s very much a social conscious message throughout so I looked to the greats for song writing inspiration – D’Angelo, Dylan, Withers, Prince, Bowie & Talking Heads, they have all been favourites for a long time and it was great to draw from different parts of their songs this time, rather than just the music. Sound wise for this track it had to be inspired from 80’s production (i.e actual 80’s synths & LINN Drum) but as a starting off point, we then had to bring it up to 2019 production standards.  This was the stance for the whole album in general, it’s fine to use genre specific sounds like synths, drum sounds etc but enhance them to feel as fresh & vital as being in the moment can be.  You don’t want a dated sound before it’s even released. How did you go about writing the music?   This album has been a completely new writing process for me in general.  Most of it has stemmed from writing lyrics/melodies first; the music then came through the subconscious when it was ready.  Up until now I’ve only really written instrumental music so this was taking me outside my comfort zone and I think it was just what I needed to inspire a new sound & album.       Where and when did you record?   The majority of it was recorded, mixed & produced in Glasgow at Glo Worm & Dusty Reel Studios (with Ross Saunders).  I also was lucky enough to get a day in Brooklyn, NY at Studio G 5000 to record vocals & some other fun (with Joel Hamilton).  It was then sent to L-A for mastering with Brian Lucey. Who did you work with?   Everyone I love!  Making this album alone has been enough, whatever happens. I’m so lucky to have so many close friends who are amazing musicians that I could invite to be part of it. I was an actual kid in a sweetie shop being able to pick who I wanted to be on this.  The album is littered with old band mates (and some new) it’s autobiographical in so many ways from the line up to the actual songs.  From bringing back Ross Whyte on kit who has been ‘my’ drummer since 2002 until he moved away 9 years ago, to Jonny Logue, guesting on a few tracks on lead vocal, the best voice I’ve ever been in a band with, to Ross Saunders (Bass) & Michael Berrich (Guitar) who are my boys in every project I’ve done, and will ever have, to Ben Holloway (Guitar), & Chris Judge (Vocals) new friendships from the last few years but love them just as much.   Everyone played their part (& then some) and I have to mention Brian ‘BSKI’ Callazo who I got in to sing most of the lead vocals on the album when I was in Brooklyn at Studio G.  Again getting a day with Joel Hamilton who I’ve worked with for nearly 10 years too – every part of it was an actual joy! Ross Saunders who again is ‘my’ bass player since 2001 also tracked, mixed & co-produced the album.  He keeps surprising me every time with what he brings to the table, this album will be a calling card for him too with the sounds he’s carved, I’m as excited to let you all hear that as much as the songs themselves.  Literally couldn’t have made this without him! There’s a million more friends on it that I’m not saying & actual a few that I didn’t include on this album – but that means I’ll ask them for the next!  What programs/instruments did you use?   Again I was so lucky to pick what I wanted (needed) for instruments, as a solo project I wasn’t bound to write for a specific line up.  Vocals are the main focus for sure and there are 4/5 different leads that I wanted to represent different songs.  There’s a kick ass String session, beast of a Horn section (Saxes, Trumpets, Sousaphones & Bass Clarinets) to Piccolos & LINN Drums. I also get to feature my Yamaha CP-70 piano on it.  There are so many variations to the ‘usuals’ on the record, like the CP-70 rather than a tradition piano or the L100 Hammond rather than the B3.  All small moves to give it it’s own sound.  Ross mixed it all ‘in the box’ on Logic with some tasty plug ins (ASK HIM!) How did the lyrics come about for '1985'?   The song is all about today! About how we consume, live & the state of play in general.  When you think of yuppism, consumerism, false political promises – you do think of the 80’s in all it’s glory.  “1985” is asking you, has anything really changed, just a few variations.  We need to learn from our mistakes to go forward etc. It was fun to throw in a few 80’s words/terms/sounds throughout the song too. What is the concept behind this track?   I picked the year “1985” as that’s when the alternative timeline in BTTF 2 took Marty back to Hill Valley and Biff was basically Trump.  It was right there – it had to be that year! Also John Carpenter’s ‘THEY LIVE!’ plays a big part from those words to the actual story itself (that is based on short story – check them all out!)  Don’t want to give too much away before you all listen. How is this new album different from your previous project 'Federation of the Disco Pimp'?   The main difference is that it’s all focused on Lyrics & Songs as apposed to FOTDP being mainly instrumental.  The last FOTDP album “INAMORATA” was about the Scottish Independence Referendum in 2014, but again that was still mostly instrumental.  I think I realised I had more to say about the world than I thought and needed a new platform to say it on.  There are cross overs though of course, I write for both and most of the musicians play on both too.  It’s basically a fresh palette to represent my thoughts through lyrics specifically. What do you have planned for 'Cowboys & Africans'?   To get it out there! All around the world, in every ear I can get it too.  I want it played everywhere and I want to perform it around the world!  After this single release, it’ll either be 1 more single or the album itself.  There’s a music video to accompany “1985” coming soon too. Who are you listening to at the moment? Beck’s last album ‘Colors’ is still on rotation, enjoying some of Beyoncé’s ‘Lemonade’, Anderson Paak’s ‘Ventura’ & ‘David Live’ a live Bowie album from 1974. My dad gave me a bunch of vinyls and that was one of them, never heard it before - it’s great!  What do you like to do away from music? I love movies, they’re a huge influence on my music too (not just the soundtracks) so still like going to the cinema (old school). Love getting to go to new places. I’m big into coffee so always geeking about anything related.  What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019? It’s all gearing towards releasing the album “COWBOYS & AFRICANS”.  That’ll include as much press as possible and launch gig night(s) which will be insane!  Also producing and sessioning for other artists too, love being involved in all original music, whatever the style. Any secrets that you care to share?   Stocks – Buy low, Sell high. Favourite food and place to hangout? I’m always in East Coffee Company, (Glasgow).  Best Coffee in the city and the friendliest baristas.  A few doors down there’s a new (Roman style) Pizza place – Pizza al tagilo (by the slice).  That’s a good day right there.  www.cafollamusic.com FB / Instagram / Twitter - @cafollamusic

Cafolla

Where are you currently based and what life and the music scene like there? I was born and raised in Brooklyn and I still live here. I would say life here is pretty cool, i've always managed to have a decent time with some ups and downs like everyone else. The music scene is kinda weird here, though. Theres an amazing party scene with a lot of amazing DJ's playing all sorts of music, but not a lot of unique or ground-breaking bands coming up in Brooklyn right now - thats not to say theres none, but I think the DJ scene here is way bigger and more popular. How did you first start playing music? I started as a really young child learning piano. Then I moved on to trumpet in elementary school, then tuba in middle school, then guitar in high school. I started writing my own songs around 16, and then started to learn how to produce when I was around 18, and went on to study music at a conservatory. What's been happening recently? Quite a bit. Been DJing a lot of parties around the city, which has been really fun. My band just got a residency at Loosie Rouge every other Wednesday, so that's been pretty cool. I've been writing and recording a lot of new music. I got two cats from a bodega and they're amazing. I sent some e-mails this morning. Had some delicious dumplings just now. Lots of extraordinary stuff. Your new EP 'Paradise Dreams' is out, what influenced the sound and songwriting? "Paradise Dreams" is mostly inspired by my experience as a DJ. Especially during the time I was writing those songs, I would get out of a DJ set at 4 in the morning, go to an afterparty somewhere, meet all sorts of people, talk about crazy shit all night, and I usually wouldn't be home until well after the sun was up. No one would be awake when I got home, so I'd be all alone. When I'd wake up, my room mates would be at work, so I'd be alone again. I had a lot of crazy experiences to reflect on and a lot of time to think about it. Sometimes I'd like to think about it, sometimes I would be overwhelmed by my thoughts. It was a confusing and inspiring time. How did you go about writing the EP? I wrote the music first almost always, put the lyrics in later, then produce everything afterwards. I just wanted to make the songs as honestly as i could. Where and when did you record/produce? I would record in my house, whenever people weren't home so I could be loud lol. A lot of ideas would come to me after getting home from a night out, but I usually didn't have the energy to make a full song at that time, so I would try to get down some quick ideas before I went to sleep and then work out the full song in the next day or so. What programs/instruments did you use? My set up is pretty simple actually. I just used Ableton, 3 VST's: Tal-U-No, UVI Workstation, and Omnisphere, my guitar, and my microphone. What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of Paradise Dreams? The writing of this EP was a very transformative time for me musically. When I first started writing songs when I was 16, I was writing singer/songwriter stuff on acoustic guitar. As I kept developing my skills, I went through so many phases - starting with making more experimental James Blake type stuff in the beginning of college. After a while, I felt more pressure to be commercially successful so I started producing much more Pop-y stuff. During this time, I felt like I lost myself and I hated what I was writing, and I actually stopped writing all together for a while. When I started writing again was right after I started DJing and I told myself that if I was going to write again, I was going to do it from the heart - the way I started. So I tried for this EP to go back to my roots and write everything on guitar first and write all the lyrics in a notebook. I wanted to be as honest and as real as I could and I did not want to care about how it sounded or how I thought people would respond to it. I wanted to be a vessel. I think this was both the most challenging and rewarding part of the creation of "Paradise Dreams" What do you have planned for Paradise Dreams? I'm in talks with a director about a music video for "Nothing In My Head" and maybe after that's done, I'll do another one. Just seeing where things go. Where can we buy/listen? All streaming services! What do you like to do away from music? I like to chill with my friends, watch tv, go to museums, go to the beach, hang with my family. To be honest though, not a lot of my life is away from music. I live with my band and we are always either listening to music or playing music. When i'm not at home with them, I am usually out at clubs or bars listening to music with other friends, or I'm DJing music for work. Who are you listening to at the moment? Too many people to list here, but some of them are: Billy Idol, Kacey Musgraves, Frank Ocean, DaBaby, New Order, UNIIQU3, Fleetwood Mac, Black Sabbath, Future, The Kinks, King Krule, Boy Harsher, LSDXOXO, Rosalia, Peggy Gou, and literally everyone else lol. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? I'm planning to release a lot more music, play a lot more shoes, work with a lot more people, and I need to get a new hat. Any secrets that you care to share? If I shared them, they wouldn't be my secrets anymore. Favourite food and place to hangout? Favorite food is probably any Italian food. I've really been enjoying hanging around in my neighborhood lately. Lots of great places like Cafe Erzulie, Carmelo's, Bossa Nova Civic Club, Mood Ring, etc. https://www.facebook.com/richieQQQuake/

Richie Quake

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I just moved back from Berlin to Stockholm at the end of last year. The music scene in Stockholm in terms of studios and the amount of producers is insane. There's studios in every corner and all of my friends are all like proper great producers, it's a lot of competition but I think that's healthy as well! Like Swedish competition, we write great songs and fight about the ideas but then afterwards we take a fika together. Live-wise it's sad to say pretty awful! It was better but there's a thing now that the government is shutting down clubs due to complaints from neighbours which is so stupid because if you buy an apartment in a noisy area there's going to be people there. But we had like a huge demonstration about it recently to get the politicians to understand that culture is one of the most valuable assets regarding wellfare in a modern society. How did you first start playing music? It started off with my sister that was a great drummer and I used to borrow her drum set when she was away from the house. Later on after a bunch of years of becoming a decent drummer myself, I started taking up piano at highschool. During that time I felt super alone and had lots of problems with my panic attacks and mental health.. So I asked my teacher if I could borrow the keys to the studio at the school because I didnt want to head home to the apartment because I knew my demons would come get me. I spent a lot of nights in that studio trying to learn how to produce. It was a great place to learn and I got to have the confience to experience my own failures and eventually started getting the hang of it. I think that's the most important key to being good at anything. To fail so many times that you can't fail anymore.. What's been happening recently? Drinking a lot of coffee to drown my self doubts as always! I’ve also been reading a lot, a couple of nights back and forth to Berlin as well. I've been working really hard together with my label (Nettwerk Music) to set up lots of single releases this year! I've also been writing even more material that will be recorded during this fall! Me and my friends are also recording live-sessions for the new singles since we want to show that I'm not a guy that only pushes buttons! I mean I push a lot of buttons but mostly piano keys! You've released your new track 'Quit' what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I wrote it in a time during a lot of self doubts. I have lots of them everyday and trying to progress in music isn't a day in the park i'm telling you.. I was feeling alone in Berlin where I lived by that time, trying to write new songs. That's when I felt I needed a comforting voice since I had no one to talk to by the time. So I created it myself. Lyrics came first then I just sat infront of my piano and wrote the whole thing there, after that I moved on to logic. I also felt excited because I havent been writing something that was that upbeat before. That's something i've learned just recently, to not be afraid of whatever comes out of my mind. Where and when did you record/produce? I recorded most of the things in my apartment in Berlin, then recorded the vocals and some real samples in my friends studio this spring which also ended up co-producing it with me! You've started using your own voice on recording now rather than session musicians, how and why did you choose to go in this direction? I've always liked to push the boundries off what I think i'm capable of. Singing is such a human and empowering instrument if it's used right. I've been putting a lot of years into practicing and practicing and now I felt I was ready to make this a proper artist. It also gives me more back since I get to sing my own lyrics. I love singing now, I never thought I would say that! For example my dad got married just a month ago, and when he cried when i played I realised that I made him cry with only a piano and voice, isn't that amazing what vocals can do with humans. You have have an EP on the way, how's that coming along and what can we expect? I do! together with more singles. It's been done for 3 months now! I'm already writing on the things that will get released after that :))) You can expect my most honest self, i don't have filters any more. I've written about my biggest fears and mental complications. I'm really proud of the outcome and I hope people will take it in even though we live in a fast mcdonalds world. What programs/instruments do you use? It's been recorded/produced in Logic and Pro tools but live I use ableton for my samples together with 2 drummers. I use everything that could make sound, why pick? There's a lot of people that say like, oh I don't use guitar, or no I don't use synths. That to me only put boundaries on the creative side.  Who are you listening to at the moment? My own Kickdrums and vocal takes. Other than that not much, but hmm... Ben Khan, Jai Paul, Great voices like Tom Odell or Justin Vernon ofc I watch a lot of movies though! Should've asked me about that instead. What do you like to do away from music? Exercise, I run almost everyday down to my outside gym here. It's really important for me to be able to exercise since otherwise my head will get crazy and my anxiety will get out of hand. Other things is drink Craft beer, hanging out with my mum (I do also have real friends my own age). I'm really into finding new clothes also, I love fashion but it's so expensive.. Last time I was in Berlin I found these great sneakers from Acne but they cost like 600€.. So I just stood there imagining them, one day though! If you read this someone on Acne, Sponsor me plz. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Recording bunch of live-sessions, releasing 4 more singles which I really believe in! And hopefully tour with a bigger artist as support. I will also be a lot in Berlin, recording music videos and other stuff. Any secrets that you care to share? Hmmm like anything? okay. If you change the laces to new ones on your sneakers they look brand new!  If you feel down say fuck you all for a week then focus on eating healthy, exercise, sleep and then buy a whole new outfit the next friday and then go out, that night will be the best night of your life.  If you want to make chia-pudding but don't want to wait for so long, just take more chia seeds than needed then give it a nice stir, now you have instant chia-pudding and that's a great breakfast for you.  If you hate vegetables but know they are healthy for you, put everything that's healthy in a blender, then drink it fast and forget about it.  Favourite food and place to hangout? Anything vegan, you have to be kind to the animals otherwise you're an ass! Vietnameese or like all the kind of sharing street food. There's a lot of good places in Stockholm! Prefrably with some local craft beer.

Mountain Bird

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm based in North East Victoria, so not a lot of music scene in my town, but I've heard Melbourne has one of the best music scenes in the world, and I spend a lot of time music-ing down there, so I'm very lucky. How did you first start playing music? I started playing music when I was in year nine. One of my friends had just started guitar lessons at school and encouraged me to join her, it was her and that guitar teacher that eventually got me out of my shell and singing. i'm so glad they did. What's been happening recently? I just released my album a few days ago! It's called 'Making Sense of it All' and is a collection of songs I've written over the last year, and recorded with a close friend of mine. You've just released your new single 'Should've back down' how did this track come about? I wrote this track at home on the piano after work a few months ago, and a few weeks later I was contacted about a pop up recording project for rural musicians in Murrundindi with the wonderful David Blake. So I took this song along and was so happy with how it turned out that I decided to release it as the lead single off the album. It's about when you're fighting with someone and the argument becomes more about winning than the actual disagreement that caused the argument in the first place, and how damaging that can be. You're album 'Making Sense Of It All' came out on July 13, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? With the sound for the album, we (Farzin Iranfar, who I produced the album with, and I) wanted to keep the laid back folk vibes but also infuse a bit of pop into the album, especially in the track 'Like Air'. How did you go about writing the music for this album? These songs were all written at home over the past year, as inspiration struck, so they're all very personal. I usually write down little lyrical notes then when I sit down to write music I branch off those notes to create the songs. Where and when did you record/produce? I recorded and produced with Farzin Iranfar, who is a close friend of mine and an up and coming producer and sound engineer. We actually recorded all of the songs (Except track 5 and 9) in his bedroom, using the recording equipment he has been collecting. We also found the bathroom is great for reverb! Will you have an album launch? Yes! The album launch is on Thursday the 22nd of August at the Wesley Anne in Northcote, Victoria. This is the link to the facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/312468952966016/ Who are you listening to at the moment? I'm loving country-pop at the moment. Particularly Hannah Ellis and Haley Georgia. Favourite food and place to hangout? Pasta, always pasta. Is there a pasta land I can hangout (live)?

Amie Grisold

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based in Canberra and the scene is lowkey on a wave out here. It’s so diverse, with an abundance of talent. Canberra is a small place, so we all know each other & I’m glad cause I get to watch all my musical peers grow & prosper How did you first start rapping? I started rapping when I was 16, I remember I used to walk home from school everyday with lil wayne blaring through my earphones. At the time he was my idol, him and tupac. The way they made music resonated with me so strongly and honestly, they are who inspired me to start rapping. What's been happening recently? Recently I’ve been in a dope creative space. I’m about to start shooting some visuals for songs off my EP so that’s where my mind has been focused. You're debut EP is out on 12 July, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this EP? In terms of song writing, this EP was inspired by my surroundings. The whole ‘African gang’ stigma created by corporate media in 2018 really caused a dynamic changed to how the common Australian view someone that looked like me. In terms of production, this project was influenced by the homie, AQUEmini. An artist I work closely with, sometime early 2018 he was playing me beats that he had made, the beat that I gravitated towards ended up becoming the intro to this EP which inspired the rest of the production.     How did you go about writing the music/lyrics? Production always came first for ‘Scared Of Shadows’. My goal from the start was to create a cohesive world of music. So once I had a collection of about 10 beats that coincided, I started writing. My writing process was premeditated for the most part, I would seat there listening to the same group of beats for weeks trying to piece together the overall story before I touch a pen & pad. Where and when did you record/produce? I have a little home studio, so almost all my production comes from there. And man…I recorded everywhere, from hotels rooms to studios to the homies bedroom. Anywhere I could record, best believe I’m doing so. How did you approach the recording/production of the tracks? Production was always done first and often long before any recording. When it came down to the recording, it was usually done in my room. I like to record alone; I get to put my self in the world I’m trying to capture & do as many takes as I can without annoying anyone. What programs/instruments did you use? FL studios was the heart of my whole fucking EP. Production, recording & mixing was all done through this beautiful DAW, fruity gang for life. Was anybody else involved in the recording/production? Yes, I worked with I.M.O.L he was behind the production for ‘Win’ & the homie AQUEmini. He produced ‘Prt 1’ & ‘Prt 2’. The homie also helped with the recording of a few tracks, shout out to AQUEmini & I.M.O.L How has growing up in Canberra influenced you and your music? Canberrans have a very D.I.Y like approach to everything. I think that has had biggest influence on me & my music, I was able to see that hey I can do allot of it for myself You come from a South Sudanese background.  Australian media has been shining a mixed bag of views on South Sudanese communities, often focusing on negatives such as the Apex Gang', what is your opinion regarding Australian media's treatment and portrayal of South Sudanese communities within Australia? I feel like Australian media understands that bad news & fear sells. So, when the ‘Apex Gang’ narrative came along they exploited it. Not caring about the effects & stigmas that have occurred from there bullshit. I also feel like nothing has been done to fix it the issues at hand afterward, they basically told the country that this group of people are not to be trusted and are to be feared and when that narrative wasn’t selling anymore, they moved on. Leaving my community feared & isolating by the rest of Australia What can be done to help show more of a positive perspective of Sudanese Communities to the rest of Australia and also what could be done to assist these communities and youths in particular? I feel like Australia’s have a fit in or get out mentality that contradict the multicultural image projected on this country. I say that to say that the easy way to have a more positive perspective on the South Sudanese Community is to be multicultural, learn about the culture, the history. Let’s all embrace on another and grow as one. How do you view the Australian music scene at the point in time? Yoo!!! I feel like Australia is next up on a global tip. England and parts of the UK just had there wave of artist blowing up out nowhere & I feel this country Is next for rea, for real Who are you listening to at the moment? I love Tyler the creators new album Igor, allot of Jacob banks, Jade Smith, Genesis Owusu, Neko Pink. I’ve been really into that 60’s wave of jazz inspired soul, artist like Nancy Wilson, Etta James, Sarah Vaughan my brain is everywhere with music.   What do you like to do away from music? I like to read, kick it with homies, play ball. I’m really into photography right now What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Allot more music #julytodecmber Any secrets that you care to share? I’ll give you one, but don’t tell nobody… Maleezy x AQUEmini Favourite food and place to hangout? If you’re looking for food in Canberra, Turkish Pide, Charnwood got them Slaps!! And it’s winter right now so I don’t really be hanging out side, my favourite place when it's cold like this is in the studio.  

Maleezy

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I live in Perth, WA. We have a really healthy creative/arts community here, and the arts is really celebrated and supported. It’s nice to be a part of that. How did you first start playing music? I started out playing imaginary ‘air instruments’ as a kid whenever my parents would take me to play sports. I picked up a guitar when I was 13, and I’ve basically been in love with creating music in one form or another ever since then. What's been happening recently? I just released a new single and video for my new track, In Shadow. Last week I did ‘intune’ at a local meditation/mindfulness studio here in Perth, cntre space, and performed a live accompaniment to a guided meditation. It was unreal. How would you describe your music? I read a description the other day where someone described my tunes as ‘visceral and emotive electronica,’ which I really liked. That works for me, because above all I want my music to move the listener. Sometimes it’s aggressive and confrontational, other times the sounds are really pretty and chill. It’s whatever I’m feeling at the time. Your new track 'In Shadow' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting? I really got into fingerdrumming and controllerism a while back – everything you’re hearing on ‘In Shadow’ was played in by-hand, so there’s a really natural feel to the groove and the performance. I think it’s really easy to lose that human feel when you’re making music with computers, I like leaving things ‘perfectly imperfect.’ Everything just sounds more like me if I play it in live that way. How did you go about writing this track? I was getting up at five thirty every morning and just going as hard as possible in the studio until I had to go to work. I would roll out of bed, start writing, press save, go to work and come back later that night to see if I captured anything interesting. Things started to fall into place when I started to play around with the ethnic instruments over the top of the glitchy, halftime stuff. Where and when did you record? I converted a room in my house into a small home studio. I do almost all of my writing in there – I wrote the main arrangements for ‘In Shadow’ about six months ago. What programs/equipment did you use? I produce everything in Ableton Live, and write most of my parts on a cool piece of equipment called Push. It’s basically my go-to for writing, production and live performance. There’s a few interesting samples – there’s a one of someone going into cardiac arrest, which is pretty bleak - but it suited the mood of the tune perfectly. How did you approach the songwriting process? I just show up and see what happens every time. If I overthink it, the music usually sucks. How did the film clip come about and what did you most enjoy about the creative process? I remember I’d come off a ‘Black Mirror’ bender and wanted to create something in that vein. A mutual friend put me in touch with Jackson (Heeley, Director / Boundless Films) – he’d directed some local videos previously that I thought were amazing. We hung out and hit it off right away. Boundless did an incredible job. More than anything, I just love the way Robyn (McCoy, dancer) expressed the physicality of the track – I get chills watching her. Her dance is beautiful and unsettling at the same time, which is exactly what we were going for. What inspires you to make your unique/experimental electronic music? Sometimes it’s a book, a film, an experience, a  conversation. When I hear a tune I like, I get inspired to make something that’s my own more than I get inspired to make a similar tune. I have a lot of respect for anyone who goes their own way - I care way more about being creatively honest with myself than people thinking my music is cool. I feel like we all usually have too much going on in our heads and our hearts. Making music helps me make sense of that. I hear you grew up playing hardcore/metal, how and why did you become involved in this new musical style? Yes! I still love guitar, metal and heavy music so much. It just started to get difficult to keep everyone on the same page - dudes want to travel, settle down and start families, things like that. At the same time I wanted to challenge myself, stretch out and explore some new vibes and moods. It just made sense on a practical and a creative level to do my own thing.    Please tell us about the themes/ideas behind 'In Shadow': ‘In Shadow’ is inspired the idea of the shadow self – it’s a concept from Jungian psychology. Basically, we all have a shadow – a dark side to our personality that we try to repress that invariably comes out through our behaviour when something triggers us. The contrasting elements of light and shade throughout the song are a musical exploration of that. What do you like to do away from music? I like hanging out with my wife, yoga and running. I’m old. Who are you listening to at the moment? The latest albums from The Chemical Brothers and The Prodigy both absolutely blew me away. I’m also a massive fan of G Jones and Mad Zach. What are you plans for the remainder of 2019, any future track releases? Yes definitely. I’m planning on releasing more tunes in the coming months. My next tune ‘Get Offended’ is on the way. Any secrets that you care to share? 98% of what happens on social media isn’t real, so stop caring so much. Favourite food and place to hangout? Indian food 100%. I like being in nature. It’s hard to find Indian restaurants in national parks here though. mayhills.com.au spotify instagram facebook soundcloud

Mayhills unveils his emotive new single and video ‘In Shadow’

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I am currently based in London, UK. The music scene is very lively here with day and night parties on most days a week. London has a good number of super clubs and also more intimate clubs and bars like 64th&Social and Floripa which hold some big parties. How did you first start playing music? I first started to play music because of my love for listening to House & Garage music. I used to go to raves and listen to pirate radio stations and this made me want to become a DJ. Watching DJs such as EZ, Tuff Jam, Roger Sanchez in the clubs and seeing the reaction and joys of the ravers gave me a buzz and made me fall in love with djing. I started out on belt drive vinyl decks and then progressed to Technics 1210s once I improved and I have never looked back since.  What's been happening recently? Its been crazy busy of late which I love. I have just released my track and music video, Good Body with Nonô and Sweetie Irie. I have been playing all over the UK and have just returned from a big festival in Minsk, Belarus. When I haven't been travelling, I have been locked away in the studio working on loads of new music. Myself and my music partner Theo, have been busy writing in studio sessions and working on new material with new singers and writers. I also was lucky enough recently to join Universal Music Publishing at the legendary Abbey Road Studios for a 3 day writing camp which was so good. It was surreal to work in studios that iconic artists have worked in and where amazing music has been made. I worked with some unbelievable singers and writers there and met some very talented people.  Your new single 'Good Body'  is out now with vocals from Nonô and Sweetie Irie - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZWhRBAe1P38 - what influenced the sound and songwriting for this single? Good Body is all about body positivity. No one ever deserves to feel like their body is wrong. Of course there are times we want to get fit and perhaps be healthier - I go to the gym, I take the kids swimming and exercise - but that’s more about keeping fit and healthy and keeping your mental well-being up there.  It's damaging - we are all guilty of it. It’s our culture - an obsession with looking like certain celebrities, the need to feel that we have to change that is the problem. It’s not our bodies that is the problem. We see certain models on the runway, in magazines, on Instagram and it’s all the same - photo-shopped and it’s not obtainable...yet young girls (and guys) are going out there trying to achieve it. Certain social media platforms lead people to believe what is “good” what is “perfect” and the track is a little bit more like...forget that, you’re good enough.  I also have two little kids and my young daughter who is only 7 and is really impressionable. She watches YouTube - she listens to music (she actually loves all kinds of music - from House music, my music (of course) Little Mix, Jess Glynne, Greatest Showman etc and as she’s grown older I’ve become more aware of lyrics and how much they impact on her.  As the summer comes round everybody is trying to get hashtag #bikiniready or hashtag #beachbodyready and the track is more about empowerment (men and women) to feel like their body is a good body. As long as you feel good it’s nobody else’s business. People like Jameela Jamil and her @i-weigh movement, Megan Crabbe (@BodyPosiPanda) and the rise of other social media influencers are doing a lot to battle it with their positive body image messages and we wanted to create a fun (not serious) track inspired by it. When we talk about good body - we are talking about all shapes, sizes, genders, races, abilities - the message is “you’re your own competition” Being confident is attractive - being happy in your own skin is attractive. Enjoy doing what makes you happy. Mental well-being is so so important and all of this relates to this.  How did you go about writing this track? I sent the instrumental to Jin Jin (my manager) to get her thoughts on it. She sent a message back within 10 minutes with about 30 fire emojis!! She absolutely loved it and we knew it would be a single. Then we added the vocals which moved it out of the underground and into more pop territory. Where and when did you record? It started life in Theo's studio in Finsbury Park, North London about a year ago. We have tweaked and edited the track a good few times to make it sound just the way we wanted it to.  How did you approach the recording/production? We approached it as we normally do and that is to have fun doing it. We didn't plan on making this track at first as we were working on something else for a good few hours but nothing was working so we stopped what we were doing and started something else. That something else was Good Body and the rest is history. Good Body has vocals from Nonô and Sweetie Irie, how did you come to work with these two amazing artists and what was the experience like? Jin (my manager) loved the instrumental but had the idea of getting a vocalist on it and suggested Sweetie. I said yes straight away as I have been a big fan of Sweetie for years. Sweetie came into the studio with me and Theo and laid down the vocals in one hit. We knew we had something very strong already but then spoke about getting a female vocalist on it as well to help push the full message of the track. Jin knew about up-coming artist Nonô and thought she'd be perfect. I had never worked with Nonô before but Theo had and agreed that she could bring that message across - and she sure did! She came in and blew us away with her vocals and lyrics.  What did you find most challenging and rewarding with the whole creative process? Making sure it was completely right was the main challenge. It changed loads with sounds and words on the track but it was a team effort on what was best for it and what the track represents. The most rewarding was when we got the final master back. The main man Jarred Hearman worked his magic on the master and once we got that and listened to it, we were buzzing.  What do you like to do away from music? Away from music, I like to run and go to the gym. I do this most mornings before my studio sessions. But my main thing to do away from music is to spend time with my family. I have 2 kids which keep me active and I do a lot with them when I am not in the studio or gigging.  Who are you listening to at the moment? I listen to so much music and all genres. I like to do this to get inspiration and ideas for my music. There is so much good music out there from the underground scene to the pop scene. The music scene is very strong at the moment with so much talent about.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019? It's going to be a big end to 2019 for me. I make a permanent move to live in Dubai with the family, leaving the UK for the sunny desert next month. I am really looking forward to this. I have a just had a release on Ferris Wheel Recordings, Gene Ferris label and one coming out on Sam Divine's label, D-vine Sounds. The campaign for Good Body is still going strong and will be carried on for the next few months. I have also a couple more singles due for release that we're just in the process of finalising. I am also gigging loads around the world. I am at Eastern Electrics next month on August 3rd for Ministry Of Sound and then playing in Mauritius at the end of August.  Any secrets that you care to share? There's only a few select people that know this until now. It's very embarrassing but when I was a kid, I was a massive BROS fan, it kills me to say that now and I don't know what I was thinking. I used to think I was Matt Goss and there is a video in my house that has been threatened to be shared on social media of me dressed as him singing When Will I Be Famous lol... I even wore bottle tops like him on my trainers, why on earth, I hate myself for that memory haha... Favourite food and place to hangout? I love street food and like to try all sorts. My favourite place to hangout would probably be Portobello Market at the weekend, Acklem Village for their food and stalls there. It's a must go to if you have never been there.  

Blaise

What is your name and role within CDB? Andrew De Silva. Singer, producer & performer. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I live in Melbourne Australia. The music scene is striving with diversity amongst new & upcoming artists & also a massive resurgence of bands from the 80’s & 90’s thriving in the live scene. How did you first start playing music? Music runs in my family. My Dad is a singer so he inspired me to sing. In my teenage years I fell in love with song writing & production. How did CDB form? CDB are basically family. 2 brothers & a close family friend. They had been performing at local underage venues & nightclubs when our paths crossed.  I then joined the group in 1993 & we starting writing & performing our own material leading to our record deal with Sony Music.  What's been happening recently? Over the last few years we have been doing one-off special shows. Our first comeback show was with US group Salt-n- Pepa.  It was such a great success that we decided to reform & start doing more shows. We’re now planning a tour & writing new material. We released an album “Tailored For Now” In 2017 & a new single “Wobble” late last year.  You're celebrating 25 years since the release of 'Let's Groove' with a show at 170 Russel in Melbourne, what do you have in store for this show?  The crowd can expect to be on their feet for the entire show as we take everyone down RnB memory lane.  We’ll be playing songs from our early albums & also the mega-hits from the “Tailored For Now” album with songs by Bobby Brown, R.Kelly & Montell Jordan to name a few.  We love doing these shows because it also turns into a massive reunion of old friends sharing music that we all love.  What's it like rehearing together after so many years? It’s always a lot of fun! We always end up re-living old memories of being on the road. It’s also just great to dance again.. something none of us really do much of any more except when we’re on stage! What prompted this show? The fans! The constant questions of when are we doing a show again. We’re planning a tour around the country next year so can’t wait for that.  Who are you listening to at the moment? Prince - the new “Originals” album; Jordan Rakei; Living Color   What's planned for the future of CDB? Looking forward to taking the music out across the county – we are working on tour and album ideas for 2020! What do you like to do away from music? Family, Church, Gym, Remote Control Cars ! Favourite food and place to hangout? My favourite food is Sri Lankan food which I usually enjoy when I visit my parents.  Favourite hangout is acoustic gig on Sunday arvo Mckinnon Hotel catching up with mates.  CDB Socials:  Facebook: @CDBmusic Instagram: cdb_band Website: www.cdb-music.com

CDB

What is your name and role within The Limbs? James Redman. Guitarist, singer and primary songwriter Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Perth, WA. Alternative rock, indi, shoegaze, punk. What are the pros and cons of being a WA based band?  Not as many venues. Hard to find members. Hard to find opportunities. Cliquey. Pushed to work harder. Lots of great bands. Nice community of people. What's been happening recently? Just released our new single ‘Here’. Your new single 'Here' is out now, where and when did you record? We recorded it earlier this year with Andy Lawson at his studio in Martin. Great room, great vibes. What programs/instruments did you use? Loads of funky guitar pedals. Andy used Protools. What influenced the sound and songwriting for Here? Just a big instant sound. We didn’t want anything with too much dynamic. It just had to be big the whole way through. It started out as just something to open our set with. We didn’t labour over it too much we just wanted it to just be big and punchy. How did you go about writing Here? It started as an impromptu jam. We recorded it on my phone and then forgot about it for months. Leading up to our launch of our ep we wanted a tune that would open the set really well and so I suggested that thing we did months ago. Since then I had written a couple of lyrics and structured it and so it came together with the band really quickly. Where can we buy/listen? Spotify. Soundcloud. Unearthed Who are you listening to at the moment? I’m listen to a lot of jazz these days. It helps me relax. Band wise im listening to Gerling’s first album Children of Telepathic Experiences which is just bonkers. I also really like Yves Tumor’s Safe in the hands of love. I would say the last really great rock record I’ve heard would be Teens of Denial by Car Seat Headrest. That album is every great rock band rolled into one. What do you like to do away from music? I’m doing a degree in Professional Writing and Publishing at the moment, which I guess focuses on a lot of journalism and editorial’s and what goes into writing them. I’m a big reader so I’m constantly buried in a book. Occasionally I have the odd poker game with some friends. I like movies too. I recently watched Luis Bunuel’s Viridiana which blew me away. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? We need to find a new bass player. Then release our next single which is recorded and ready to go. Then we’ll probably set up a small tour in support of that single. I think with the next single we’re going to accompany it with a bit more of a campaign. Merch, videos, tours and the like. Any secrets that you care to share? Don’t worry about music. Don’t try and control it. It’s totally out of your control. Don’t worry about the industry. It’s a big fire breathing behemoth that doesn’t care about you. Do music for the fun of it and don’t get too caught up in it being a career. I would have never said that two years ago, but nowadays that’s a big reality that I’m facing. It’s actually quite liberating in a way. Takes the pressure off. Favourite food and place to hangout? The Flying Scotsman. My work. My second home. https://www.facebook.com/thelimbsband/

The Limbs

What is your name and role within Kids At Midnight? My name is Jane Elizabeth Hanley but my mates call me Janeo. I am everything in Kids At Midnight. I’m the singer, writer, engineer, producer, coffee maker, I go get the lunches... Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m based between the tiny coastal town where I grew up and Melbourne. And we’re quite spoilt in Melbourne, the music scene is thriving, exciting, encouraging, indie… it’s pretty sick. How did you first start playing music? I’ve been singing since I was a bub, and then sang all through dance school, and then in Year 7 I played the Sax in the Highschool Band and then the big kaboom happened when I bought a second hand guitar and taught myself by watching Oasis videos...and that’s when I knew I wanted to be a songwriter. How did Kids At Midnight form? I’d been singing around as an acoustic artist but I had this niggling feeling I wanted to go electro! It was peak MySpace days. I met a wonderful mate who was a bit of a synth genius and we formed Kids At Midnight. We signed to Alan Braxe’s Vulture label, released one EP, had a song on Jersey Shore and then he wanted to take a break from music. And then my world exploded. That was like ‘uummm now? You want to quit now? What will I do?!” So I went to quite a dark place for a few months and then I just thought, ‘Well, Janeo, you either give up or you’d better learn to produce yourself, because no one else is going to do it for you.’ So I got Ableton and started bashing away, after a lot of songs sounding terrible they started to sound better and better. I’ve been producing solely as Kids At Midnight now for about 7 years. PS we are still best mates. What's been happening recently? I’ve been producing the album over the last year so all my time has been in the studio vortex. I’ve got this single out Boys Like You and one more until the album finally gets oxygen and I’m too pumped.  KAM has a distinctly 80s vibe where does that influence come from? I’m a child of the 80s and I think I find a really beautiful innocence back there. The Never Ending Story, Pretty In Pink, The Goonies, all these classic 80s films I want to live in them.  It’s like they window dressed the inside of my imagination and then never left. I think it’s ok to be a bit naive and hopeful. We don’t sit and wonder anymore. Google has made arguments so quick, it’s made human connections quick. But I also love Gen X Punk and 90s Britpop and 70s Fleetwood Mac...and I’m a hot mess of teen dreams of anyone who wanted to be a rockstar. What's your songwriting/producing process? It can be anything from driving around the coast road in my hometown and a memory jolts in and the words just start coming out so I record them on my iPhone, to sitting in my studio playing with some chords and finding a beautiful marriage between chords and melodies… It’s pretty random. But once I’ve got something I think is special I’ll just chip away at it on Ableton. I like to layer vocals and create a really thick dramatic fog of rolling across the sea. And then I’ll realise I’ve been ridiculous and I try and strip back a tiny bit. I have to turn on my Producer had after I’ve had my singer songwriter hat on and undo all the drama so people can hear it clearly in the mix. You have an album on it's way what can we expect from that? Ooh you can expect layered dreamy synths and classic anthems and chunky 80s new wave guitar mixed with The Never Ending Story soundtrack. I’m really in love with this album, it wears its influences on its sleeve and I’m cool with that. Because I do. I’m a nerd so my album is. Do you like 'Stranger Things' and shows that reference the 80s or do you only like OG shows? Ha ha I LOVE Stranger Things (as anyone who sees my Insta Stories is probably sick of) I’m not an 80s snob. It’s a sweet, haunting, thrilling and aesthetically rad as adventure. Big tick for Stranger Things. We should all be on an adventure. Who are you listening to at the moment? Haim. Nikki & The Dove. Starship. OMD. Katy Perry. Lizzo. Ace Frehley. Enya. Peter Gabriel. Mark Ronson. Giorgio Moroder. Bikini Kill. The Pixies. The Church. INXS. Tom Petty. Ariel Pink. LP. What do you like to do away from music? I teach Dance when I’m not producing or DJing. I teach Tap Jazz Musical Theatre and Hip Hop at a Dance Studio (shout out Studio Phoenix) and it’s such soul feeding work. To be a part of artistic growth for so many kids it’s a whimsical world. So in my everyday life I’m actually never away from music so I guess when it’s my time off I go hard into my world of movies. I think that’s where I dream away. I also love walking, just going on long strolls which is important when you’re in your studio all day. It stretches the mind into the sky and allows it to travel for a while.  What programs/instruments do you use? I use Ableton Live (preach) I use all the synth sounds and instruments inside Ableton and then I have Sylenth for some extra synthy options. I have an electric and acoustic guitar that I like to layer in my tracks. And a drum pad and LED drumsticks for premium vibing.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019? The album, the album, the album. Towards the end of the year I’ve got some shows coming up in support of the album. I’ve got some exciting things happening in New York in October and I’ve gone back to lending my voice to some other projects. And amongst all that I DJ my residencies at The Carlton Club & the pop party I run called I Wanna Be Adored at The Stone Hotel and that’s just growing so much I’ll be expanding that brand.  Any secrets that you care to share? Some of the stuff in ‘Boys Like You’ actually happened. I did write in my diary about my crush. Then my crush did fall in love with a new girl and tell me about it. I did have to squash it all down. A boy did tell me to shut up in Math class because I kept answering all the questions first and he got annoyed. Hmmm secrets… I was in the Take That fan club. Lol.   Favourite food and place to hangout? I’m a beach baby. I’m a pack of Barbeque Shapes and a West Coast Cooler and waves lapping at your feet and salt on your skin kinda gal. Van Halen on the pink boombox. But if I can’t be there anywhere there is coffee and food. Wild Timor in Coburg. Stop off for a quick squiz at some op shops because you never know where the perfect 80s prom dress is hiding. Then a cheesey pop party back at my place. Perfect. Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Triple J Unearthed | Twitter

Kids At Midnight

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m based in Parramatta Sydney. It’s safe to say that there is no music scene here, the closest thing to music here is the cars with holes in the exhaust making the loudest noise ever and making every single dog in the area have a panic attack. Where were you born and raised and how has that influenced your music? I was born in Baghdad Iraq and raised in Cairo Egypt. That influenced my music by exposing me to different sounds I guess and the bottled-up pain everyone there got allows me to organically vent on my tracks. How did you first start rapping? I watched 8 mile (RIP Brittany Murphy) and was like wow I really want to do that What's been happening recently? Not much, I have been studying and working long shifts. Your new single 'It's Ok Not To Be Ok' is out now, what influenced the sound and song writing for this track? I sent my producer a bunch of soundtracks I was feeling (Interstellar) and told him that I’m really feeling the sound of MuraMassa and Snakehips and Mø. So he sent me the skeleton of the beat and we started building on it. How did you go about writing this single? I start with coming up with punchlines then once I got good ones, I start writing my set ups. I was driving to work and I had the beat on repeat in the car and I came up with “though all the pieces are falling it’s ok not to be ok” and I had to park and write that down because I have the worst short term memory and I always forget lines I come up with. Then I built the whole song on that line. Where and when did you record and who with? I recorded this at my home studio, I have a sE Electronics sE Z5600a and I run it through a Focusrite scarlett. I called my mate Sean Candler and was like “hey, you know how to use logic pro X pretty well, can you come record my vocals at my place?” He welcomed the idea. He showed up and we started recording then noticed that the battery in my smoke alarm was low, so it kept beeping. Therefore, we had to do 209090 takes and just choose the ones without the beeping sound in the background. Where can we listen/buy? http://hyperurl.co/ONTBO What do you like to do away from music? Watching movies and TV shows Who are you listening to at the moment? Rick Ross, Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, Meek Mill and Amy Winehouse What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Oh I’m planning on Baring everyone out! Dropping 2 tracks that consist of nothing but bars! I think it’s time to solidify my spot as a lyricist and not just a guy with catchy choruses and punchlines Favourite food and place to hang out? Macquarie University Bar at North Ryde Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HussyKat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hussykat/?hl=en Shazam: https://www.shazam.com/artist/203964787/hussykat SoundCloud:https://soundcloud.com/hussykat Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1XUjoHRVFq6nxGiXzZucZm?si=Wi-V3fURRba3Duh6F2WOWg Twitter: https://twitter.com/HussyKat Triple J unearthed: https://www.triplejunearthed.com/artist/hussykat

HussyKat

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I'm currently based in South East London. The music scene is flourishing, London’s actually had a bunch of new creative spaces open over the last year or so, which feels pretty positive... How did you first start playing music? I was in a few bands growing up, nothing really of note but that was my initial introduction to making music. I also used to write songs and hide the lyrics under my bed, until my older brother found them one day… So I guess after that, due to the post-traumatic stress, I took a 10-year hiatus and started making music again around 7 years ago, just after Church began up as a party.  What have you been working on recently? In the recent past, I’ve been working on a bunch of remixes, the album was wrapped up a little while ago so my focus now is the tour and writing an EP for the club.  Your new album 'sketches of transition' will be out on July 26, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? The last couple of years have been turbulent, to say the least on a personal level, I wrote these tracks whilst trying to deal with a wealth of emotions and it became a therapeutic process for me. The original plan was actually to slip it out as a tape but as time went on I realized it was turning into something that perhaps deserved more of a splash.  How did you go about producing the tracks? From a live angle, I wanted to be able to perform everything I was writing. In the past, I’ve sampled a lot more and with this, I was really focused on pushing myself within my own musical ability and seeing how far that could go…  Where and when did you record/produce and who did you work with?  I wrote the majority in my home studio in London, then wrapped up maybe 4 or 5 of the tracks whilst in LA. The two vocalists I worked with were a huge part of the process, I was sending Buddy Love music constantly for feedback, he was very involved. By a stroke of fortune, mauv came along pretty late in the game, we chatted about what the tracks meant to me and he back with lyrics that completely resonated with me and the story of the record, which you hear in 'amelia' & 'thought for food'. A few of the tracks were mixed by myself, then a bunch by Itai Shapira aka Biako who's a dope producer/musician based out in LA, and a few were done by Matt Karmil, who also mixed down my last EP. The album was mastered by Matt Colton, dream team.  What programs/instruments did you use to record/produce? Maybe I’ve forgotten some but - Juno 106, Jupiter, Micro Korg, Ableton, Live Percussion, Guitar, Bass, Prophet 12, Alesis Drum Machine, Casio CZ5000 + a bunch of plugins...  What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of your new album? The most challenging was choosing the tracks that actually made it on. There was a bunch of others that I really liked but I wanted this record to be as cohesive as possible. There’s dynamic within the record and it does constantly shift but the sound palette and tones used throughout are very similar.  You've just released your new single ‘amelia’ from the new album, what influenced the writing of this track? ‘amelia’ was written on the day my first niece was born. The idea of the track is to serve as a unique time capsule for her. The instrumental was done and I approached Mauv who I already work very closely with. He’ll be releasing an album on the label at some point next year. We discussed the theme of the track and within a week he’d sent over the lyrics, he’s really talented and I can’t wait to help him share some of that with a larger audience.  What's planned for ‘amelia’? It’s hard to say, it’s definitely a different sound to what I’ve put out before, I don’t know… this was actually the last track I finished on the record and it felt like the right time to put a track like this out there, it holds so much value to me personally, I’m just eager for people to hear it at this point. There’s also a super exciting remix lined up, more on that soon.  What do you like to do away from music? I have a dog called Malcolm, he also has a track dedication… so hanging out with him and friends. I started running this year which has really helped my mental health, I also enjoy cooking and eating out. I’m the guy who orders way too much…  You're currently on a big world tour, how do you prepare for your DJ shows? I’m big on preparation, so I’ll get together a solid 100+ track playlist for each show and then separate the tracks into tempos & vibe, then pop out to buy a bag of fizzy sweets to keep me going if it’s a long one.  What can we expect from a DJ set?  These days I generally go a little harder and faster then you might expect (especially if you’ve just heard the album, which ironically my most downtempo record to date). Something that I’ve noticed people enjoying is getting to hear new bits forthcoming on the labels, and there’s often a nod to my own productions, especially the Grab the Wheel EP, for me it’s about finding the balance between keeping the party going and also playing for the audience that is more in tune with my own productions/sound.  Any secrets that you care to share? I have a phobia of the color orange and also raw tomatoes.  What's planned for the remainder of 2019? So this world tour will continue until the end of the year. I can’t say too much now but perhaps there will be a couple of different ways to experience a Seb Wildblood show before the years out  ;~)  Favourite food and place to hang out ? Hang out - Peckham Food - Mr. Bao & Bahn Bahn https://soundcloud.com/sebwildblood/sketches Website | Facebook | Soundcloud | Spotify | Instagram

Seb Wildblood

Where are you currently based? In Ecuador, Quito.   How did you first start playing music? It seems like I grew up listening what surrounds me and making my own sounds. There is photographic evidence that tells a story of love between a little guitar, little shakers and a little kid.   Your new EP  'Semillas del Tiempo Vol. II' on QTZL is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this EP? Involving myself with the production of Vol. ll in its entirety meant specifying which elements create authenticity and enrich the sound and concept 'Soios'. During recent times, I was focused on experimenting with analogous machines, where I discovered a vast ecosystem which I wanted to connect with what I had been doing in the first EP How did you go about writing the music? It varies a lot. These tracks were written between different stages of my life. They each reflect one of them and this is also why, on the one hand, it came to be called Semillas del Tiempo'. It feels good to savor the afternoon for example, perhaps that sensitive experience is the answer to this. Where and when did you record/produce and did you work with anybody else? This EP is a compilation of tracks that have been in development for some time. There are songs that I started recording in 2016, like the guitars of 'Feel Me' which was the first track, interestingly. I have had great experiences with musicians and producers that I admire and respect. Edmundo Perez of Tampur Records is with whom an organic and fruitful relationship in co-producing has emerged.  What programs/instruments did you use to record/produce? I use Live or Pro Tools as work tools. I always loved collecting and creating instruments, I try to use everything. My background is guitar and voice, which I consider the elements that guide my behavior at first. The creative process happens in my home studio, where I draft songs until they feel consolidated, and later take to Edmundo’s studio for finer edition and production.  How and why did you come to release with Quetzal Coatle, the label? It is the enveloping curatorship and legacy of the Qztl label that attracted me to be a part and launch ‘Semillas del Tiempo’ Vol. II, an EP that feels like a bridge to the future. What is your relationship with Gorka and Nicola of QTZL? Friends. And I love what they do musically.   What did you find most challenging and rewarding whilst writing/recording/producing 'Semillas del Tiempo Vol. II' How to manage one’s energy throughout different processes and how love supports it, I find that fascinating.   Where can we buy/listen? Is out now in all streaming platforms.   What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Live the moment, play a lot.  What do you like to do away from music? Maybe in this moment music is the main thing.   Who are you listening to at the moment? I have gotten immersed with Sudan Archives recently or Helado Negro, they are rich perfomers.   When and where are you playing next? I’m excited to be on touring mode, which is building up. Now I’ll start in intimate coffee shops which I love. Also working now on visual experiences to go along with my live act.  any secrets that you care to share? More music is coming up! Favourite food and place to hangout? I love cooking up new music at my home studio.  https://artist.landr.com/music/628810489053 https://www.instagram.com/nicouio/ https://www.facebook.com/soiosofficial/ https://soios.bandcamp.com/album/semillas-del-tiempo-vol-ii https://soundcloud.com/soiosofficial/reposts

SOiOS

What is your name and role within Triart? This is Furkan(middle) here. Gorkem is on the right in this picture and Ensar is on my left. Besides 10+ years of friendship among us, Triart is more like a collaborative project that we try to bring out the best ourselves. That’s why we don’t usually share it/publish it until it feels right for all of us in the process, from marketing to music production. Although we all involve in each and every process, we split the workload by focusing in our own fields. Coming from a business background, I usually handle that side of the project where Ensar and Gorkem explore and bounce creative ideas in the studio. In addition, they also work on the projects separately and then bring it to the studio to wrap up together. In general, we take pieces of ideas from individual production sessions and build a new project. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Until a few years ago, we were living in different countries. I used to live in the US, Gorkem was also with me before moving to Slovenia, and Ensar was in here in Turkey. Living in different countries had both positive and negative aspects. Due to the time difference and school/workloads, we could have found much less time to collaborate. But at the same time it created a chance that we can get inspiration from the music culture of different countries. Especially witnessing the rise of EDM scene in the US,although we were into it that much, helped us to be guided by the good mentors from the industry, which eventually created a good network over the years. In Turkey, we think that electronic music scene is growing and expanding. People have started to dig deeper into sub genres. Experiencing the change together with the audience is also exciting for us. So we know that when we produce something that is far from standardization, not trapped in the molds, there will be someone to listen. How and when did you first start playing music? For the first time as Triart, I and Görkem played in America. I was 18, Görkem was 17 by then. It’s one of those moments we’ll never forget. We played on a stage with a capacity of about 100-150. Since there were names like GTA and Bassjackers playing on the main stage, there were very few people in the smaller stage when we took over the set. We were very very nervous but it went really well. How did Triart form? Our friendship goes back to the early years of high school. It would not be a lie to say that our music tastes were very close to each other. Afterwards, when we were 16, we decided to go for a Interrail trip - you can travel all over Europe by train with a single ticket - Our last stop on the trip was Ibiza. When we went to there, we were blown away. You imagine what can happen when you go to White Isle at that age :) We had only one night in there and luckily there was the opening party of Swedish House Mafia’s Masquarede Motel at Pacha that day. The party we could barely enter with Fake IDs inspired us so deeply that when we left the club around 8 am, we decided to go for it. People, vibe, music, passion, energy ... Even today it still gives us goosebumps moments. It took few other years to form Triart, but this is definitely the start story. What’s been happening recently? It’s been a rollercoaster year already. After nearly two years of hiatus, we returned with new Triart single, where we felt more confident and free musically and artistically. We spent this two-year break exploring different musical approaches, developing our studio techniques, and drawing a road map of where we want to take Triart. We were more like a producer-DJ trio before, but the direction we want to take now is very different. We try to explore the journey between music and raw emotions through this collaborative project. We are working on shifting to a live performance, dropping the standard DJ setup to create an immersive connection between us and the audience. We hope to turn Triart shows into a multidisciplinary performance with our own production and visuals. You’ve recently released ‘Reboot’ which has taken your sound to a new direction, how would you describe your new sound compared to your previous sound? In fact, we haven’t made much release before. However, if we compare it to the previous approach, we think the biggest difference is that now we are able to move  more freely between sub genres of progressive music. Listeneres can still hear trance-y elements from our old sound though. Therefore, we wouldn’t say we’ve completely changed our sound. Although perhaps the approach is different musically, emotion and experimental attitude remain in place. Why did you decide to change your musical direction? Note for the editor: Answered in the 5th question. We can merge this I guess? What or who influenced your new track ‘Reboot’? We were just excited to finally come up with something that totally satisfied us. Reboot transforms what’s now old with our new approach, not only production wise but artistic wise as well. The biggest inspiration was to realize that we could challenge ourselves by giving more freedom to what we do and do it in a better way. Now, we have a space to disrupt our own style. This idea pushed us to produce Reboot. Where and when did you record/produce? We completed Reboot in our studio in Istanbul. Here we have the chance to spend time together with a lot of upcoming artists who are also under the same management. This helps us to accelerate the technical (mix-mastering) processes especially after the creative process, which only we are involved in. What programs/instruments did you use? The three of us have Studio One as a DAW. Projects that we work are synced on Dropbox, so even if we are in different places, we can work in different parts of the project individually. We mainly use Serum and Massive as VSTs. Recently, we have started to use Dune and Synthmaster as well. What’s planned for Reboot? We tested Reboot in many events before releasing it. The reaction was always incredible. We don’t heavily promote it but we try to reach more people who we think may be interested in this kind of music. Therefore, creating content around the release and spreading it thru niche media outlets and targeted posts is the way. Who are you listening to at the moment? We are listening to a lot of Jon Hopkins at the moment. What’s planned for the remainder of 2019? We will have another release in late August and early September. It is a piece that continues the story of Reboot and is also valuable for us as it is our first collaboration. Before the end of 2019, our goal is to release an EP. Our forecast will be towards the end of November. In addition to releases, our top priority will be to switch to live setup by 2020. The second half of the year will be a deep dive into Triart project as a whole. What do you like to do away from music? Well, music makes up 90 percent of our daily lives. We all work under an entertainment-new media startup called Future Forward Media. Therefore, apart from Triart, we spend all of our days and nights here, creating media partnerships, brand endorsements, and doing business developments. Being involved in music business and doing this kind of work for brands, of course, has a positive effect on Triart. So we breathe in and out music and music business on a daily basis :) Any secrets that you care to share? It’s not a secret but we are still huge fan of Swedish House Mafia. Love the way they engage with their fans. Amazing stuff! Favourite food and place to hangout? Definitely Amsterdam! We just love it.

Triart

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I live in South Golden Beach next door to Splendour. Every year the sleepy village gets a bit rowdy when the festival is on, which is fun.  We've played Splendour many times over the years, it's so awesome, but I still go every year as well. It's my local gig once a year.  There's a lot of musicians young and old around. For a rural area it's incredibly creative and diverse.  Still would like to see more venues open up in the area for local bands to play. But I think that's the same everywhere.  How did you first start playing music? Whitt & I used to jam drums & guitar in my folks backyard in Finley. The town is so small & there was nowhere to play shows but we had great fun. Every Holidays when he would come home from boarding school he'd have some amazing news about a band he'd seen in the city. One day he brought home a distortion pedal & cranked it up.  Everything changed for me then!  Drumming & singing in my HSC I came first in the state with 100% score on my performance exam. It was a trip and totally unexpected. My music teacher at the time Julie Croft was a great inspiration.  I think that musical event & jamming with Whitt shaped my outlook on music. Later when Janet came along & we started writing songs together the shape was complete. How has the music scene changed since you first started playing? One difference is there's not the money around from record sales that there was then. This source of income was crucial to a lot of bands.  Also social media has transformed bands in a lot of ways. There's much more expectation to connect directly with fans & have a lot of hits. But the sad thing is that it's fine if you're into it but sucks if you’re not.  Not every band or artist wants to constantly be in contact. Some would much prefer to be left alone. It also keeps some privacy and mystique to the artist intact. I am one of those. I really loathe social media and avoid it.    How did Spidebait form? Whitt & I in the backyard in Finley.  We used to go to parties & hang out heaps, I've always loved him and his energy.  Then we asked Janet to jam with us.  She said 'I've never played bass in my life!' We said 'that's great! you'll learn quickly' and she did - she is awesome. We were very punk rock back then and just wanted to play  with our friends.  This ethos still remains & is the main reason we're still together and successful.    What's your gear setup, has it changed much over time? Not really. Whitty still uses the magical Boss DS1 pedal that started it all. Same Marshall Amp.  Janet changed a while ago to a smaller white Fender bass which is much lighter for her. I've got 2 kick drums now cos I'm going thru a metal phase ever since I wrote Straight Thru the Sun! But we are and always will be the same 3 people playing music together.  What's been happening recently? A lot of big festival shows in the past few years. Our gigs have taken on a euphoria between us and the crowd which has been amazing. Something special is going on.  You're dropping a 7” single vinyl box set of your singles, how did this come about? We thought it would be a cool idea - have always loved vinyl the best. It's a great feeling to actually hold yr song in your hand as a 7 inch single.  Also looking back over the 25 or 30 singles we've released over the years is like a diary of our lives. Every song has a meaning, time & place attached to it. We liked that idea especially retrospectively.  Where did you press the vinyls?   I have no fucken idea sorry, but they look great!  Who did the artwork? All our artwork since the start has been done by Janet & her friend George Stasjic who designed many of the iconic characters.  Janet's work is awesome.  George is quite simply brilliant. Genius.  How has Spiderbait changed since the very early days? Not much. We're still the same in a lot of ways. Humour. Manner. Style.  But one major change is the confidence that comes with experience. You don't give a fuck what people think/ say about you.  When you’re a young band there's a lot of worries sometimes.  But now we're all very comfortable with who we are & what we've achieved. It's nice.  You'll be playing  all of the bands hit singles in order at the Forum in Melbourne on the 9th of November, it's going to be a very special show. How did the idea to play all the hit singles in order of release come about? It was Whitt’s idea. Such a great one too.  Earlier this year we were backstage in Adelaide just about to play to 10,000 people at a festival with Magic Dirt & Jebediah, 2 of our most loved bands and friends️ We had a quick meeting about doing a Forum show later in the year & Whitt suggested a SINGLES show. Brilliant.    What do you like to do away from music? Absolutely nothing as much as possible.  I would recommend this to anyone.  People are way too obsessed with this fuckin word BUSY and forget to just live. Life is short. Smell the roses.  Who are you listening to at the moment? The Beatles Abbey Road & Echoes by Pink Floyd. I love Ruby Fields heaps she is awesome. Also, Fair Maiden from Adelaide and Major Leagues from Brisbane.  What's on the cards for Spiderbait looking into the future? No idea really except a new album is def on the cards which will be great.  Any secrets that you care to share? Fuck Off social media from your life and be reborn free.  Favourite food and place to hangout? Any food. Any place. Any time. 

Spiderbait with Kram

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I am currently living in Berlin and the music scene there is amazing! I think that this has been and still is really important for me and my career. There are so many creative people in Berlin, you can meet new people every day und if you need a guitar or something you can just call someone and be like „Hey, what‘s up, can I borrow your guitar?“. It’s an amazing city to make music in. How did you first start playing music? I began with collecting music, became a DJ soon after and went to become a producer after that. I think it all started with me collecting a lot of music and therefore learning a lot about vinyl and music as a whole. At first I was mostly listening to indie- and rock music but then I discovered a box of old vinlys in the hall of my house back then. The music on those vinyls was predominantly house music, which completly revolutionized my world and let me go: „Wow, what is that? Spinning vinyls is awesome!“ Then I started to make some mixtapes with those vinyls, but that was mostly for me and myself. Later some friends of mine approached me and were like: „Hey, we want those Mixtapes!“. That was essentially the start of my DJ career What's been happening recently? I just released a new album called „Sticker On My Suitcase“ on the 14th of june. But I’m already back in the studio to work on new songs and some remixes. There is a lot more to come! Your new album 'Sticker On My Suitcase' was released via Sony Music/Ultra Records, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this album? I was definetly heavily influenced by my different feature guests. It’s always nice to go into the studio and make some music with old friends and new friends to be. It’s simply magical! If I had to say who inspired me the most I´d say that it´s always been the musician I was working with at the time of the question. How did you go about writing the music for Sticker On My Suitcase? For most of the Songs I simply went into the studio with the musicians I was working with in the songwriting process. A lot of this happened last year in Nashville, which is an amazingly inspiring city. As soon as you land there you see loads of stages in the airport and the city is full of advertising for music instruments. Everywhere you go you just know that people understand music. It was nothing but great to make two of my songs from the new album in Nashville! But then there are songs that were created in a different way. For Walk Away for example I received a demo from James Blunt with the question if I´d like to make some music with him. After I went „of course I want to“ I sent a demo back and they replied that James liked it and that he wants to make music with me. That was of course amazing but different to the way I usually make music. Where and when did you record/produce and who did you work with? Most of the recording for my new album happened in Berlin but a bit in Nashville as well. For Sticker on my Suitcase I worked with a lot of different people. People from Nashville, german artists, friends of mine from berlin, my trumpet player and a lot of new faces. All in all a colourful mash up of people, most of which I met in Berlin.  Please explain how you approached the recording and production of Sticker On My Suitcase? The Album ist heavily inspired by the experiences I´ve made through travelling around the globe. On the way of thematising travelling as main topic of the album I got inspired by other artists. The 18 track album features James Blunt, RHODES and Sam Grey, how did you come to work with these amazing artists and what was the experience like? How I cooperated with James Blunt for Walk Away was a completly new way of communicating for me. They simlpy sent me a song and we got together that way. With RHODES I had a full song ready to go and was looking for someone´s voice to put on the track. The original vocalist from the demo didn´t want to be on the track, which is why I contacted my label to help me find a new voice for the song. That way we found the wounderful RHODES. Sam Grey wrote the song together with me and is all in all a really cool guy. I’m especially happy that he lend me his voice. It´s not always feasible but I usually try to work with musicians that have been part of the songwriting process all along anyway. But with RHODES for example it was different. What programs/instruments did you use to write/record/produce? I usually use Ableton but that always depends on who I’m working with. From time to time I use the programm of that specific partner but I usually stick with Ableton. The drums are programmed on a computer but other instruments like piano, bass and guitar are recorded in the studio What do you have planned for Sticker On My Suitcase? I’m definetly going on tour with the new album in december, which is really big and special for me. I’m really looking forward to it because I love travelling and being on the road with all of my feature artists. For this tour they are all going to be with me on stage, which normally already is the case, but this time there are going to be really intimite living room concerts in advance to the big show. Every feature artist is going to get 10 – 15 minutes in which they reinterpret our songs. That means for example that Graham Candy is going to be on tour with me and Kelvin Jones is going to be there. All that simply belongs to the album and is going to be brilliant! I’m looking forward to it! How will you approach playing these tracks live? For a lot of the tracks I play live, I play a specific live version. That means that I change it up a bit to make it a bit funkier, maybe a bit faster, or create a completly new reinterpretation of the song in cooperation with the vocalist. All of this can be seen and heard on my tour in december. Who are you listening to at the moment? At the moment I really like Billie Eilish – Bad Guy, what a great song. What do you like to do away from music? In my freetime I enjoy cooking and listening to music while I´m at it. I also enjoy travelling of course, which is why it is the main topic of the album. What do you have planned for the remainder of 2019? Loads and loads of Festivals! I`m also going to travel around the world and will of course be on tour in december. Favourite food and place to hangout? I love spending time in Thailand and especially on the small island of Ko Pha-ngan. I love the asian cuisine as a whole and in particular the thai kitchen. On my travels through Asia I learned a lot about cooking. Sramanaro, which is a really special place on the continent and the name of a track on my new album, is one of my favourite spots there so far

Alle Farben

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Perth! Home of the smiling Quokkas. I probably don’t go out as much as I should. Regardless theres always been good gigs on when I do head out and really good venues hosting. I feel the Australian music scene has suffered over the last couple of years and that’s somewhat present here in Perth too, and now artists are finding it hard to request ridiculous fees from this affluent city. How did you first start playing music? Mum and Dad felt my hyperkinetic behaviour was excessive and came to the conclusion that a drum kit would provide them some respite. Poor fools. That must have been year 6 of primary school. Please tell us about your previous artist life: COMMAND Q was my break out DJ duo. Let’s see, there’s so much to tell. The internet called us Dank bass music. It was full of meme culture, childish behaviour and great parties. Louis Frere-Harvey was in the duo with me. We did 5 national tours here and in New Zealand. Had people like Diplo and Skrillex introduce themselves and sign our tracks. Those were moments where we could barely contain ourselves. COMMAND Q was one of the best times of my life. I had my favourite people around me, all helping each other bring the project forward. And Im still very close to those people who were a part of COMMAND Q behind the scenes. There came a time though where the music felt less honest. I felt too pushed and was getting caught up in the machine of the industry. That’s why I took a step back to regather myself and fall back into what the music is really about. It’s so easy to get lost in the industry once you live and breath it. How and why did Monsoon Moon come about? Monsoon Moon came about from necessity. Something inside me was saying make this music!! And I couldn’t ignore it. It has pianos and melodies and moments where I can lose myself in the vocals. I wanted something deeper, something you can play in the car and the let the world drift away from you. With the same team that birthed COMMAND Q, we worked together one last time to create a second story for me. I can’t thank them enough for it. What's been happening recently? I moved back to Perth just last November after living in England. Recently I’ve just finished a full length music video which took 2 months to complete. We have the next 5 tracks planned out over the next year. All we have to do is be patient, put them out there and promote ourselves! I suppose now is the time to start working on my live show eep! Your debut single 'Just Friends' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I was just searching for something that made me feel. And at the time I wanted to write a love song for someone special. You can hear the modern production with some experimental sounds bouncing about. The reality is the song was influenced by many many conflicting ideas and emotions and this is the result. How did you go about writing Just Friends? This song was a blend of many other songs and 100’s of sessions.The writing came mostly from exploring sounds. Once I find certain things that I like, I explore it until something tangible comes to life. And at some point, my incoherent singing forms melodies and becomes structured and then lyrics follow. The lyrics are always mapped to the song, and usually the last piece of the puzzle for me. Where and when did you record and who with? I record all the demos at home until I feel Ive finished them as much as I can alone. Then I take a quick trip to Melbourne to work with the award winning producer Joel Quartermain (eskimo Jo). We sit down in the studio together and go over my lyrics. Its quite important to the both of us that we nail them so this can take a long time. Once we’re settled on the lyrics, we get to setting up the right microphone with the right settings for my voice and hit record. It makes the vocal process a million times easier having someone else do all the heavy lifting on the vocal production. What programs/instruments did you use? I stick to Ableton as my DAW of choice. The vocals are recorded in protools though. When it comes to acoustic instruments, we have guitar in there, recorded snares and hihats. The music software is where I really shine. However I use far too many plugins to begin listing. How did you approach the recording/production for this track? I wanted the song to translate easily. As I was mixing it and creating it, I want the listener to feel as if I was right next to them, and for the song to feel close and intimate. I take the mixing and mastering very seriously and it was a difficult balance for these vocals to feel magical and surreal instead of dry and over powering. Where can we buy/listen? Everywhere! Or this link ;) - lnkfi.re/2oUJpXZu Who are you listening to at the moment? Surprisingly Im listening to some throwbacks lately. Deftones, & Coldplays early albums. And uhhh Miley Cyrus’s latest EP is pretty good too. What do you like to do away from music? I recently got a girlfriend and that’s been pretty fun haha. Mostly I seek to relax. Keeping a healthy social life and a healthy body whilst maintaining a strong music career is hard work! My down time is Netflix in bed. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Although Im feeling impatient and would love to release all my music, it’s something that takes time. I have 1 more song release scheduled for this year and in the meantime ill be working on creating a new show. Where are you playing next? No shows. Any secrets that you care to share? Monsoon Moon will be the first time I walk on stage alone. And it makes me feel a little uneasy. Favourite food and place to hangout? I live next door to Chu bakery and they make bullshit good baguettes. Weird thing is the bread is so hard and pointy its hurts your mouth but you eat it anyway because of the sheer deliciousness. https://www.facebook.com/Monsoonn.Moonn/

Monsoon Moon

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based in New York City.  The music scene here is incredibly vibrant. There are so many places for artists to perform - Brooklyn and The Lower East Side in Manhattan. People really go out and see live music here a lot. It’s also summer now so there is a lot of outdoor music events happening all over the city. Every night there is something really cool happening. How did Sir Winston come about? It was time for a new project and a fresh start. Writing and producing music makes me really relaxed and excited at the same time and I missed it a lot.  I was really enjoying getting a lot of material together and taking some time over it. I knew the sound and the shape and the experience I wanted Sir Winston to present and I wasn’t in a rush. An impromptu summer jam with an old mate, Alex Buxton, in Australia really kicked things into gear. Teaming up with Abe Seiferth in his Brooklyn studio was the next link and I’ve been powering forward with it ever since. So happy that it came together. How did you first start playing music? I started guitar and piano when I was very young. I was polarized by Hendrix. I also grew up listening to the Beatles and the Stones and Zeppelin and the Velvet Underground.  Music was always around when I was growing up. My twin brother was a drummer and we started a band at school. But when I started writing songs, I guess I properly fell in love with music. It felt so magical. I knew it would be the biggest part of my life. It pumps my blood every day. I think I communicate best through my music. I love using my imagination and I love creating a story with lyrics and putting it to music. I write most days and record demos into my iphone. There are no rules with writing and producing music. It’s a totally free canvas where you can whisper sweet nothings or scream ya lungs out.  I need music and my songs to get my message across. I need it to get me through the day. What's been happening recently? I’ve just been focused on this new release and being a good lad. I seem to be moving around a lot the last few years but I’m happy to be back in New York — strangely it seems like home. It’s a good place to focus and work hard, but I'm also ready for a fun summer and some new adventures. You have a new single 'Everybody Must Dance'  out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this track? I’ve always been influenced by David Bowie. Big fan of LCD Sound System and I have so many favorite new artists. Sleigh Bells are everything! So, I think this track reflects some of those influences. How did you go about writing Everybody Must Dance? I loved writing the lyrics to this song. It’s a Fairy Tale about being in love and adventure and the rhythm of life. I was in a really happy place when I wrote it. It came out so positive and upbeat and evoked a real lust for adventure and that whimsical joy that comes with young love and happiness. Where and when did you record? I had so many demo versions on my iPhone. And than a nice live recording that I did with Alex — just again on an iPhone. Than I went to Dorian’s studio in Melbourne and it came together with some structure and feel. Then when we took it to Abe at his studio in Greenpoint Brooklyn  it really came together fast. There’s actually parts from all different sessions that made it through to the final mix. It was a long process in a way. It started back in 2015, and we were ready to release. Then Bowie died. Oh man! My greatest hero. With all the references to Bowie in the lyrics, the remixes and even the video, I just didn’t want to put it out anymore. His passing struck me deeply. I didn’t play the song for a long time. I was bummed and just left it alone. But now the time feels right and I think the homage will be taken sincerely. Who did you work with during the recording/production? Alex Buxton,  Dorian West and Abe Seiferth. What programs/instruments did You use ? Lots of old synths and fuzz guitar pedals  I cant remember really - Abe has so many dope sounds and toys. What's planned for Everybody Must Dance? I really hope it gets out there and people enjoy it and dance to it. I love it. It’s just got that fun vibe ya know? And I hope that the remixes get out there too. They pump! The videos are fun too. Where can we buy/listen? Spotify and all those things www.sirwinstonofficial.com will be live any day now  and the vinyl is available there. What do you like to do away from music?  I like sitting in the sun.  I golf. I really love to cook. I love date night - that’s the best. Life is too short not to be romantic. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? I have another single with remixes almost finished that will come out later in the year and the album next year. Any secrets that you care to share? There are Witches in the air. Favourite food and place to hangout? I love my homemade organic chicken vegetable soup and I love hanging out down on the water here in New York and watching the boats and the world go by.

Sir Winston

What is your name and role within Sleep Lizard? My name is Bill Meegan and I sing/play guitar. Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? We are based in Adelaide. The scene is great here, as we have a lot of initiatives set up by the government i.e. Music SA etc How did Sleepy Lizard form? Basically I just started making music on my computer in 2014 and once I had enough songs, I put a band together. We’ve had some lineup changes over the years, but we are pretty solid these days. What's been happening recently? We just dropped our latest single, “Can’t Help It” with a video clip. Your new single 'Can't Help It' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this single? I’m always listening to Nile Rodgers stuff so that’s bound to creep in there. I wanted to get a lot of percussion/synths on the track as that’s something I’m really into at the moment. How did you go about writing Can't Help It? Basically It just came out in the week after a break-up. That was about two years ago which is funny as it’s only just getting released now and I’m definitely not in that place any more haha! I still like the sentiment of the song though, as i’m sure it’s something that many people struggle to deal with. Where and when did you record and who with? We recorded the track with Matt Hills in the earlier part of this year. How did you approach the recording/production? The original demo of the track was all electronic. I wanted the released version to have a raw feel like old 70’s records. What programs/instruments did you use to record? We used pretty standard stuff ie, guitars, drums, bass, synths. We did actually get a triangle on the track which you can hear in the song’s breakdown. Triangles are actually surprisingly tricky to record. Where can we buy/listen? All the standard steaming services and you can download all our tracks for free on Soundcloud. Also head over to Triple J unearthed and give the song a review! Who are you listening to at the moment? I’m a mixed bag but I'm always listening to Prince. I saw Rocket Man yesterday so I'm really getting around Elton John at the moment. I tend to listen to older music rather than the newer stuff to be honest. What do you like to do away from music? I’ve been playing a bit of golf lately which is fun and It helps me to clear my mind. I enjoy really mundane things like gardening, reading and watching films. Being in the music industry is pretty insane sometimes so I try to keep my life outside it as orderly as possible. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? We will be dropping some more singles for sure but I have to keep my lips sealed on that at the moment. Any secrets that you care to share? Sometimes I listen to ‘Beautiful’ by Christina Aguilera when I’m alone. Favourite food and place to hangout? I love a good curry and staying in and just chilling in your jocks is underrated. https://www.facebook.com/sleepylizardband/

Sleepy Lizard

What is your name and role within The Leanover?  We’re Ali and Lou. Ali sings and plays guitar, and Lou plays bass and sings.  Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? Lou: We’re based in Montreal right now– the city is relatively small, but the music scene is huge and super diverse! First there are the francophone and english music scenes that are pretty distinct from one another. Then are so many bands that little sub-scenes exist in different neighbourhoods that are only like 20 minutes away from each other. The community is really strong and supportive and everyone seems dedicated to making music accessible.  Coming from the States, Quebec also seems quite supportive of artists, and Montreal especially has a huge artistic infrastructure developed that gives artists in the city endless opportunities to perform.  How did the Leanover form? Ali: The Leanover has taken many forms over the short course of its existence. Lou and I met in college in upstate New York but didn’t start playing music together until after I had graduated and moved to Ottawa for work. I would travel back on the weekends to visit my partner and play music with my old bandmates, Sagiv and Ethan, who lived with Lou and my partner Jason. We were playing music in their living room when Sagiv invited Lou to join on bass. She had such a unique and groovy playing style that instantly glued our music together in a way that finally felt right. You know what I mean? The very next week we headed into the studio to record our first EP, Pawn Trouble.  At the beginning of 2017, I left my job in Ottawa and tried to spend a few months in the USA with Jason to record a new album with the Leanover, but after a month, I had a terrible border experience and was banned from the USA for five years. Suddenly and unexpectedly, I was back in my birth city that I had never lived in (my family moved to the British Virgin Islands when I was three). Lou decided to come up to Montreal to play music. We started off as an unaccompanied duo then began to play with more instrumentalists. We had a fun stint playing with Nick Wagstaff on the saxophone and had the pleasure of playing with multi-instrumentalist powerhouse Erik Fines (of Bright Fuschia) on drums for a year.  You have a new single 'Forward and Back' that was just released, what influenced the sound and songwriting?  Ali: Forward and Back started in 2015 while I was driving across America in a solar-powered recording studio van with Jason. It was the first week of our trip and we had stopped in a small beach town in Virginia where everyone drove around in golf carts and said hello to each other. It had been a hard first week on the road– we were adjusting to living in crazy close quarters and showering in Walmart parking lots, troubleshooting our solar rig and figuring out how to sleep in a hot car in downtown Philadelphia. The little beach town was a great break. We found an empty parking lot behind a church overlooking a marsh, pulled all of our belongings out of the van to reorganize, and started cooking dinner on our camp stove. As the sun was beginning its descent we started to see far-off lightning flashes every few seconds over the hill behind us. It was more lightning than we had ever seen before, striking in quick succession like disco lights. I was amazed and fascinated by the phenomenon and started filming it and running around gleefully trying to capture it from all angles. Jason noticed that the lightning was getting closer and closer to us and started to clean everything up and asking me to help. I became annoyed at his inability to enjoy the beautiful moment and kept insisting that we had plenty of time before we had to panic. I continued filming. This back and forth became more heated as I poked fun at Jason’s stress and Jason became (rightfully) indignant, running around and shoving stuff back in the van. Rain started bucketing down while most of our stuff was still strewn out over the pavement and we went into a full sprint, annoyed and hangry and saying things to each other that we didn’t mean. The last thing that we had to do was close the back doors of the van. We had jerry-rigged a bike rack to one the doors, partially resting on the back window. The only way to close the door was for one of us to be inside, lying on our bed, pulling the door in, while the other swung it closed from the outside. In our rush and anger, both of us did our respective jobs too forcefully, and the bike rack bounced against the window, shattering it into a crackled web right in front of my face. The window started leaking rain all over our bed, so we pulled the van into the leeward side of the church, in an illegal parking spot on the street, covered the window with a tarp and went to sleep with an explanatory letter on our dashboard. That night I wanted to abandon the project and the trip altogether. As soon as the storm ended though, we talked everything out and we came to a much better understanding of how to live together so closely while in the face of constant uncertainty and instability. So yeah– the song is super literal. Oh I have to add that the people from the town were so nice to us the next day! A mysterious woman in a tie-dye golf cart woke us up the next morning with coffee and clementines, and a man from the local hardware store gave us free plywood to cover the window.    What do you have planned for this track? Okey, because we’re terrible at keeping secrets– we have a really fun visual experience on the horizon. Emily Soussana and Andrew Scriver of Potato Cakes Digital are working on a fully animated music video for Forward and Back. We don’t have a date of release yet because it’s being painstakingly hand drawn, but we can tell you this much– it’s going to be cute, goofy and also very very cool.  Who are you listening to at the moment? Ali: One of the ways that we initially bonded was Lou showing me Cate le Bon for the first time a couple of years ago. We saw her play in a tiny bar in Hudson, New York and it was perfect.  We went crazy for Crab Day and now we’ve been revelling in Reward. Cate can do no wrong. Summer also has us diving back into afrobeat and 70’s psych– very good for the grooving and for the moving. (Lou and I are both currently in the midst of changing apartments)   You also have an album on the way, where and when did you record and who with? Lou: Ooh this is a fun question. We recorded this as part of our upcoming album (Portico), which has  definitely been our most collaborative recording experience. We began by recording drums and bass in Ali’s parents’ living room in the Laurentides with Megan Miller, who had also helped us do some major editing to the length of our songs (we had been playing the tunes live for a while and every song had kind of dissolved into an extended jam!). We recorded most of the guitars and vocals with her at La Plante, an amazing cooperative venue, practice space, and home in Montreal. Julien Beaulieu did our production and recorded additional layers with us in our Hochelaga apartment. We also recorded some more vocals with Ben Evans at his home studio Burning Room recordings and some drum recordings at Machina Studio in the Mile End.  When will the album be released? July 30th. Our album launch show is on July 31st at Diving Bell Social Club! It’s going to be a super fun, immersive experience and you should be there!  Where can we listen/buy? Our first two singles from Portico are up on all the platforms! Lily is also up on Kickdrum’s Montreal Fresh playlist on Spotify. Bandcamp is always great for buying– all the proceeds go straight into our future projects and also it’s more fun because it’s all personalized and MySpacey :) What do you like to do away from music?  Ali: These days I’ve been really into making collages and stop motion animation. I make online promotional packages for peoples shows-- like posters, and then gifs out of those posters. I’m also trying to get into making handmade merch for people. I really love doing fun, simple kinda naive embroidery for pins and patches. I also teach guitar, ukulele and voice privately in people’s homes, mostly to young children. I get to ride my bike all around the city in the summer and teach kids that making music is super fun!  Lou:  I’m in the middle of grad school for urban planning, which consumes all of the time that’s not for music. What's planned for the remainder of 2019? After our release show on the 31st, we have a little tour planned in Ontario with our friends The Kommenden. At the end of August, also on the 31st, we’ll be playing for HOT TRAMP fest in Montreal, and again on September 26th for POP Montreal.    Favourite food and place to hangout? Lou: Ethiopian food– Queen Sheba in Montreal has been an important spot in The Leanover’s history. You can sit outside and look at Mount Royal park while you scoop your injera and listen to Mulatu Atstatke, which is enough of a reason for us to love any restaurant. 

The Leanover

Where are you currently based and what is the music scene like there? I’m currently based in Bergen, Norway. Here you find anything from hip-hop to rock bands, but over the last few years artists within the pop genre has made their way out in the world. We have huge pop icons like Kygo, Alan Walker and Sigrid, so Bergen has really started to export good pop music! How did you first start playing music? I started as a DJ in small clubs. Mostly because my girlfriend at the time was 18 and I was 17. So the only way I could join them at the club was to sign up for a DJ.  Later when it became more serious I started producing music as well. And here we are! What's been happening recently? I’ve just started traveling around Norway for the festival season. Had two great weekends already and are on my way to the next one as we speak.  I have also started to finish up my next single which is being released over the summer. You new track 'Blame It On Me' is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting for this single? Me, Caitlyn Scarlett, Boye and Sigvardt was at a songwriting camp in Denmark, we bounced some ideas around about the theme and ended up with «Blame It On Me», which means that you will take the blame for the relationship going wrong because you just wanted to party or «live your life». How did you go about writing Blame It On Me?   We decided early on that we wanted to make a house track for the clubs. And after I put down the house beat in the verses, pre chorus and chorus Caitlyn had an idea within minutes. So we sat down, went through some ideas and had the whole thing ready the first day. Where and when did you record/produce this? We wrote the lyrics in Denmark in aug/sept last year and had a demo ready the weeks after.  How did you approach the recording/production process? All of the vocals are recorded in Boye & Sigvardt’s studio in Denmark. We finished a demo there and kept working on the track the following months. Bouncing stems back and forth. The master project on my computer is now a total mess.  What programs/instruments did you use? I use Ableton Live 10 as my DAW and Boye & Sigvardt use FL Studio.  There is a lot of different synths on this track. I used Serum for the pads and plucks, piano from Kontakt, bass from Spire and some arps from Sylenth1.  Most of the FX is from Soundtoys. The vocal pitching and vibrato on the vocal chop in the chorus are LittleAlterboy and almost every track has a dist from Decapitator on it. When can we buy/download 'Blame It On Me'? Its out everywhere ;) What do you like to do away from music? I love to travel, and I’m so lucky to get to visit so much nice places in my job. Always great to meet new people when I’m touring. Who are you listening to at the moment? Right now I’m a huge fan of Fisher. Really hope I can catch one of his shows in Ibiza this summer! What's planned for the remainder of 2019? Finishing up the festival season and start planning for new releases. I have some really sweet tracks planned for the autumn. Any secrets that you care to share? Caitlyn Scarlet, which wrote most of «Blame It On Me», will be featured on my next release ;) Favorite food and place to hangout? Sumo in Bergen. They have the best sushi in town! https://www.facebook.com/officialsjur/

SJUR

Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest