Hiya folks thanks for joining us in the virtual RGM lounge today, grab a brew and take a seat.
What made you decide that music is a thing for you?
Music has been a big part of my life since I was very young. I have memories of standing in the aisle trying to conduct an orchestra, at the age of 4. It has been in and out of my life since then.
Introduce us to you and your musical history.
I started off playing violin at the age of five, then as I got older, started teaching myself to play piano. Was in a range of bands covering post-punk to blue-eyed soul, was signed to a label briefly then rejuvenated my musical career about four years ago.
Name me your 3 favorite Albums.
Tricky – Maxinquaye
Boards of Canada – The Campfire Headphase
David Bowie – Blackstar
What was the first song you heard that steered you into a music path?
I can’t really remember but it would have been something from the post-punk era…maybe Simple Minds “Love Song”…
The music industry is the hardest industry in the world to progress in, How do you feel you are doing?
I feel I am doing fine for where I want to be. I have no illusions about someone of my age suddenly becoming successful. My career is really about just getting the music out there, and if people like it, that’s great. If not, well I’m philosophical about that. So far I have had some pretty good responses so can’t complain.
As you develop as an artist and develop using socials what ways do you get new ears on your music? Any tips?
I am doing it all myself under my PureSound label and pretty conventional PR through SubmitHub and Musosoup, playlisting services such as Playlist Push and social media…including promo campaigns through Facebook and Instagram. Haven’t done anything with Tik Tok although I know I should be. But there is only so much time in the day!
Tell us Two truths and a lie about you.
I am very interested in financial markets, I love skiing and I am a superb trumpet player.
What’s your thought on spotifys monopoly on the music industry?
I think it is a rort, where a few members of the industry got together, and decided to use technology to take most of the revenue out of the industry. I am hoping that crypto will eventually unwind through new decentralised platforms.
Do you sign up for any conspiracy theories?
I keep an open mind. Quite a few conspiracy theories end up becoming fact so it would not make sense to completely ignore them.
Did you buy anything you don’t need during the pandemic?
I never caught COVID but had a severe case of GAS (gear acquisition syndrome). I have just moved studios and it was shocking how much gear I have. Too much.
What was the worst experience on stage?
Told this story many times. Was playing an industry gig with my band a long time ago. We had just had a pretty successful single. Brought in a friend to do sound, who went on to be called the “feedback kid”. We lost our record contract shortly thereafter.
Tell us something about you that you think people would be surprised about.
I own a small financial advisory firm and have three grown-up children.
What makes you stand out as a band/artist?
I don’t think I stand out, but I do believe I bring my own mix of melody, harmony, and texture combined with simple but message-full lyrics.
I hear you have a new music, what can you tell us about it.
“Drums of War” is the new single. Recorded in my own studio, and co-produced by Greg Haver and myself, it has trip-hop influences but is probably a bit straight to fully qualify as a trip hop piece. Clint Murphy mixed the track. The Ukraine War has really affected me and I have been following the Ukraine situation since early 2014. I am very frustrated by the death and suffering that is a result of imperial hubris on both sides. That being said, it is very important that Ukraine is given the support to eject the Russians from their lands.
Talk me through the thought process of the new tune/s.
It is a multi-textured atmospheric piece, with layered pianos, horns, and choirs. It is designed as a strong but poignant message.
What was the recording process like?
Very straightforward. I did most of the tracks on my own then brought Greg Haver in to play drums and percussion. We recorded it pretty fast.
Would you change anything now it’s finished?
Probably would like the choirs in the second half to be a little more present.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
Just music, hope, and love. (Bravo Bonez’s mantra)
CHECK THEIR WEBSITE HERE