Socially and politically , what do you think are the biggest challenges facing us today ? How do you think music can help ?
Equality has always been a problem both socially and politically . This is not only equal rights for different minorities , but the mismatch in social hierarchies as a whole . From this we get the situation where people start thinking they are entitled to more than other people . When this happens we have refugees who can ’ t find safety , war torn countries , a financial sector that is completely unstable and governments who are rife with corruption . Music is a universal language and all people , no matter what their class , connect with music emotionally . So really it is the perfect tool to use to bring about a change . The best way to do this is to use music as a mechanism to reach those emotion , forget about raising awareness and focus on creating action .
For me , Tornado is such a beautifully told lyrical story . You have an exceptional talent for imagery and turn of phrase , on all of your songs , really . What is your background , as far as studies ?
My academic achievements aren ’ t very glamorous . I did study an applied computing course at University but I found a job before I graduated . Musically I have not received any deliberate formal training . I taught myself guitar with a little guidance and I don ’ t know how to read music . However , I did do a Music Cognition course with Berklee College of Music and part of that discussed the impact of music with our emotions . When I write a song I try to make sure that the feelings and emotions I have in the song is relatable for others . Tornado is a song where in its most basic form compares the feeling of a panic attack with that of a the destructive force of a Tornado . I feel like I ’ m about to include another big wave example !
What instruments do you play , and which is your favorite ?
I play most guitar based instruments . Instruments such as Mandolins , Banjos , Bass etc . Although , out of principle I won ’ t play Ukulele ! The thing is , at the end of the day , I just love sitting with a guitar for hours upon hours playing whatever is taking my fancy . It really is completely liberating . I do play a bit of piano and drums . I ’ d secretly like to be a bit more competent at drums , but I ’ ll stick with the guitar for now .
When can we expect music videos , and will The Devil is Innocent be the first song released ?
This is going to be a very exciting year for me ! We are looking to release ‘ The Devil Is Innocent ’ in the early part of this year and a music video in currently in production . It is going to be a very busy time for me and I just can ’ t wait to strap into the ‘ Devil ’ rollercoaster .