Music Interviews

Where are you currently based?

I’m living in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada!

How did you first start playing music?

As a child, I was forced on stage by my school music teacher who saw something in me – haha. I had no idea I could sing, and this led to me performing more and more at school events. In high school, I started performing in musical theatre, talent shows, and coffee shops. Eventually, after high school, I moved to Vancouver to pursue songwriting and recording original music!

What’s been happening recently?

Lately I’ve been preparing for the release of my first ever album, “Louder Than Words”. It’s been such an exciting time for me! I’ve been wanting to put out a larger body of work for so long. The first single and video just came out for lead single “Can You Hear Me”, and I have a couple more singles and a few more videos to coincide with the lead up to the album drop later this year!

Your latest single “Can You Hear Me” is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

“Can You Hear Me” is a pop anthem with a bit of a rock edge. It was important to me to have a song that had a great, melodic flow in the verses similar to something OneRepublic would put out, but then have a huge Queen inspired rock-esque chorus to go with it. The song itself is about staying true to yourself, living in the moment, and having no regrets… It was important for me to have the first song released from the album lead with a really positive message.

You wrote the single with Andrew Allen and Jeff Dawson, how did this come about and how was the experience?

Jeff and Andrew had both worked together before, and I had worked with Jeff on music for a while already at that point. Andrew was in town and we thought we’d get together and see what our combined perspectives could create. Andrew always has a really positive outlook, and I wanted to tap into that and make a really upbeat song with a strong message of empowerment. I’m so happy with how it all turned out!

What does this single mean to you?

This single means a lot to me. As the lead single from my first ever album, already there’s a sentimental value that’s attached to it. Being able to write it with my longtime collaborator Jeff Dawson, and an artist from my small hometown of Vernon BC, also brings a degree of sentimentality to the song for me. Having it be such a great message of being true to yourself and living life with no regrets, and just the feel of the vocals and how it all comes together, it’s exactly what I wanted to lead off the album with.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

This song was actually originally written and recorded way back in 2014! I was going through a bit of a personal ‘artist development’ phase where I was writing and recording a bunch of songs with Jeff Dawson and kind of seeing what would stick, genre-wise. I always loved this song but we never quite got it completely finished back when we started working on it… later on when I committed myself to finally record the album and we had most of the songs done, I rediscovered the original version of this song and we decided to update it and revamp the production. We got Ryan Dahle to master Jeff’s mix of it and now it’s here!

Please tell us about your working relationship with producer Jeff Dawson:

I’ve had a great relationship with Jeff for years now! I did this entire upcoming album with him we’ve have done prior singles over the years. I always get a great result from our collaborations! Jeff is so patient and detail-oriented, and lets me be as overly obsessive with the vocals as I feel necessary – sometimes weeks and months later, I will have a new idea for a vocal or one of us has a slight lyrical tweak and we will go back and fix things. As a writer, he’s always super open-minded and willing to try anything. Overall, it’s a great collaborative environment where I feel safe to share ideas and keep working until the finished product is just how I want it.

How did the concept for the music video come about?

The music video was a fairly simple shoot! I was referred to AJ Astle of Roadhouse Productions and after chatting with him, I decided it would be a great fit to go to Toronto and work with him! I wanted something that would suit the vibe of the song, and since the song is poppy and has a rock edge, AJ suggested this really cool neon studio space that was both edgy (to suit the rock aspects of the song) and colorful (to suit the pop side of the song). We wanted it to be a very performance-based video where the bright coloirs and vibrant/edgy imagery would really bring life to the visuals. We wanted it to be super clean and modern. I’m really happy with how it turned out.

Where and when did you film and who with?

I filmed the video in April of 2022 in Toronto with AJ and Roadhouse Productions. We ended up filming several videos that you’ll be seeing over the coming months. For this one, that great studio space was called Neon Demon and it was such an awesome and unique space.

Please tell us about your upcoming album:

As mentioned, the album is called “Louder Than Words” and I’m so excited that it’s almost out. It’s a great mix of modern pop singles, some with a slight rock edge to them, some soulful piano-based ballads similar to Sam Smith’s style, and some singles that are more throwback to some older Motown or soul vibes. These are all songs I’ve written with incredibly talented writers and artists. I wanted the album overall to be a powerful, positive, pop experience, and then have a little bit of a nostalgic vibe on some of the more emotional songs.

What’s the music scene like in Vancouver at the moment?

The music scene is wonderful in terms of there being a huge artist community. There are a crazy amount of songwriters and producers and players all around town. I love reaching out to other artists to work on co-writing music and I’m really looking forward to getting out and doing more shows to get these new songs out there more in a live setting.

Who are you listening to?

Right now, I’m listening to new stuff all the time, especially new songs by all-time fave Kelly Clarkson, Adam Lambert’s new cover album, the new Bebe Rexha album, singles by OneRepublic, GAYLE, Valley, and new tunes by fellow Canadian LGBTQ artists like Mathew V and Tafari Anthony. I try to keep up with what pop artists new and old are coming out with so I can see what’s resonating with the public, and I live on my phone Thursday nights when the new songs drop and make sure to listen to anything new and noteworthy.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

For the rest of this year. I’m looking forward to releasing another 3 music videos, and my full album! I’m really excited to be finally getting this body of work out there, and in the meantime, I may be planning some studio sessions and writing sessions for some upcoming stuff to launch post-album! There might even be an acoustic version of the album ready to go as well…

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I love a good burger! And I spend way too much time at the theatre catching new movie releases!

Social Links:
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Twitter: @TurnUpTheKyle
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1. Where are you currently based?

A) We are currently based out of Edmonton, Canada.

2. What’s been happening recently?

A) We recently traveled to Toronto for our first showcase set at Canada Music Week/

3. Your latest single ‘In Stereo’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

A) “In Stereo” is our attempt at splitting the difference between our New Wave and Pop Rock influences. Luke and I had been looking to write a song that incorporated dance elements with anthemic elements, while acting as a cornerstone in terms of sound to the rest of the music we’ve been recording. The verses pull influence from Dance-Rock icons like Talking Heads, Franz Ferdinand, and LCD Soundsystem; while the chorus leans towards arena Pop-Rock acts like The Killers, Tears for Fears, and The Cars.

4. How did you go about writing “In Stereo”?

A) Some songs come together really easily. From writing, to recording, to mixing, you can have them finished within a week or so. “In Stereo” was not one of those songs. I think it’s because of the dynamics of the arrangement. The verses stay quite small, groovy, dancey; and then the chorus lifts up into something anthemic. Getting that to work from a production standpoint was a hell of a time. I think the work was well worth it though, when I hear “In Stereo ” coming out of the speakers I feel it’s doing something truly unique.

5. Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with? A) “In Stereo” was recorded and produced in our home studio just like all of our other releases. Mastering was handled by our good friend Bryan Lowe over at Joao Carvalho in Toronto.

6. You’re performing at the Canadian Music Week at Bar Cathedral in Toronto on Saturday, June 10th, how did this show come about?

A) You know, the usual; You send an email, and then they send an email, and then you send an email, and then you’re in Toronto playing Canadian Music Week!

7. What can we expect from your performance?

A) A high energy, danceable sort of a show! We’re going to be debuting our new single “Broke Generation” which hits streaming the day

before. We’ve really enjoyed running through that track in practices so I’m looking forward to hitting the stage.

8. Who are you listening to at the moment?

A) Lately, Ghost (Impera), The Killers (Hot Fuss), Talking Heads (Remain in Light) and Alvvays (Blue Rev)

9. What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

A) Lot’s to look forward to! We will be releasing a single every month leading up to our new EP coming out this fall. We have our “Retrofile Volume 1” vinyl shipping off in July, which is nearly sold out in Pre-Order. Also, we are heading off to the U.K. to play a handful of shows in September!

10. Favourite food and place to hangout?

A) We love grabbing breakfast at Route 99, just off of Whyte Avenue here in Edmonton. Good Diner food and the prices haven’t changed since ‘05.

Instagram: @retrofile

Facebook: /Retrofile

Website: https://www.retrofilemusic.com/

What’s been happening recently?

I think I could write you a novel here, it’s been the most exciting & busiest time of my life.   Last month I bought a van, packed my whole life up & drove over the country from Perth to Sydney. It was a very grounding experience, complete solitude with the road & vast nothingness of the Nullarbor.  

Some of my biggest ups & downs lately. Moving has not been easy & especially during a time where I had internet vitality skyrocketing my socials. Only a few months ago I was entirely independent, no management, agent, nothing. Having to independently deal with the viral craziness of my campaign promoting my single “Memory” was a lot more than most. I’ve been settling into city life here in Sydney – 

I’ve made a lot of sacrifices to move here, but I’m here for opportunity, so much is going on here & I want to be apart of it. It’s time to create some noise on this side of Australia. 

How did you come to be involved with One’s To Watch?

Through my absolute legend of a booking agent Jimmy! He’s from Select Music, we got in touch after my single “Memory” started making some noise from the vitality of my socials. Love the guy, we are still yet to get a skate in together!

What are your thoughts on your experience so far?

I’m very excited to be involved, I’ve obviously heard a lot about live nation & have been told some of the names who have appeared on Ones to Watch prior – I’m keen to join the ranks! 

You’ll be performing on the 22nd of June, 2023, can you give us a little taste of what we can expect

Don’t expect what you were expecting with me… A LOT has changed with my sonics recently, I’ve been drawing more and more influence from a larger & more diverse sound. Artists such as John Mayer, Leon Bridges, Lewis Capaldi, Taylor Swift & Olivia Dean to name a few. It feels like a strange spot to be in currently, my fans & the public associate my music with a “folky” sound, well…. I’ve been banking up a new record which is a more diverse & widely appreciated vibe. I am ITCHING to get it out to the world & show everyone I mean business.In terms of on a live scale – me & one of my best mates Ben Morgan have recently been taking advantage of busking together often in Sydney. He’s an artist himself and has been accompanying my songs with extra guitar and saxophone. It’s really lifted the vibe for the live side of things, especially having the sax. This will be our first time appearing together live on a proper stage.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Usually I listen to John Mayer 24/7 but lately – I’ve really been digging the unexpected; Kanye’s The Collage Dropout, Mac Miller Circles, A LOT of Taylor Swift – which is the exact opposite side of her history with John Mayer, also the likes of Loyle Carner, Olivia Dean & the absolute gem that is Leif Vollebekk.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

I’ve got huge goals & ambitions for my career, in saying so that means never ending hard work, so the rest of this year will involve a constant hustle! As I said, I’ve been working on a new record, a 5-6 track EP which I am extremely proud of. I have all confidence that we’ve got a hit or two on the record.I am bit of a perfectionist, so will prepare everything before I can even think of releasing the next single from the record.

I have all faith in this new music can’t wait to bring my A game with my smart marketing to make my music reach millions.I hope to release this record by the end of the year, in saying so; I’m on the lookout for the major labels now, I know that the combination of their large scale amplification & my ability to create smart music marketing will be a fool proof plan to get the record out into the world & go large!

Other than the EP; I plan to do some co writing over here in Sydney, aim to support some large acts, jump on a few festivals & keep improving, learning & growing.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Although “I’ve been around Australia a couple times or maybe more” no place feels more like home than Western Australia. I was recently back home a few weeks ago to finish recording my EP, so visited all the best food spots; Daises Cottesloe, the best açai bowls ever, Peggy’s in Fremantle, a chicken snitty sandwich to die for, & Ruocco’s Fremantle, the best Italian in town. I find my home state hard to beat, I feel very grateful & privileged to have grown up in WA.

Everything is blissfully comfortable, more friendly people & so many insanely beautiful places that are just so quiet & peaceful. Margaret River will always feel like home to me, I lived there for a part of my life & will always dream of it. But really – anywhere where the spirits are high and my best friends are with me is always the best spot to hang out! 

Official Website  Facebook  Twitter  Instagram

Where are you currently based?

I live on Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Castlemaine.

How did you first start playing music?

I started singing when I was five years old, but didn’t start writing songs ’till I was fifteen, when I was given a piano from a family friend who passed away. Writing songs was a way for me to express what I was feeling.

You’ve just got back from touring the UK, please tell us about the experience:

I toured with artist Ruth Lyon, who is an incredible performer and songwriter. We performed for the month of May across the UK, as well at The Great Escape Festival; I also did a show in London at the Aussie BBQ showcase, thanks to Sounds Australia. It was absolutely incredible performing alongside Ruth each night on tour, my favourite part was meeting the audiences at the end of the night and getting to connect with people as well as hearing Ruth sing!

Your latest single ‘Running Underwater’ is out now, how did this single come about?

I wrote ‘Running Underwater’ several years ago just on my piano. It was one of those songs that just pours out of you quickly. It’s about having a disability and being told that you should hide it to fit in. For a long time I thought I needed to hide it and the weight was really heavy. It felt like I was ‘Running Underwater’. I performed the song on ABC’s Q&A and so many people reached out saying they related to the song. When I started my new EP with producer Pip Norman, I knew it was one I needed to record. I’m really proud with how it turned out. It’s very anthemic.

Please tell us about the importance of this single and its significance for you when it comes to your advocacy work, being a champion for other musicians with disabilities: Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

I feel ‘Running Underwater’ is important because disability is still greatly underrepresented in the music industry! That’s not because there isn’t talent out there, it’s because there are so many barriers. For instance it’s hard for musicians to tour and release music when they can’t get through the door! I hope that having a disability showcased like this, especially with the music video, that it can represent disability as something that shouldn’t be feared, or a deficit. In fact it’s something
to be celebrated.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Odette, Ngaiire, Jen Cloher, Moreton.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

I have a show at Melbourne Recital Centre in August as well as some shows in Sydney and Brisbane. Some other exciting things are underway as well. I will be releasing my EP later this year also.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I love strawberries & watermelon! In winter, soups are my go to! I love hanging out at The Bridge Hotel in Castlemaine or my local cafe Saint Florian.

‘RUNNING UNDERWATER’ is out now
ELIZA HULL: Official Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube | Triple J Unearthed

Where are you currently based?

Wombarra

What’s the Wollongong music scene like at the moment?

The wollongong music scene at the moment is forever evolving with a tight community, some of our best friends and favourite bands to see

What’s been happening recently?

Drift released our new song “Begin”, we played our launch show this weekend which was sold out, we’re writing new material and we’re looking forward to announcing more cool stuff soon!

Your latest single “Begin” is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

The biggest influence for “Begin” that was the sound I was looking for when writing the song was listening to 90s/00s emo bands like Sunny Day Real Estate, Mineral, MCR.

How did you go about writing “Begin”?

The main influence when writing the song came from a bunch of small events in my life that basically combined into one big idea of “moving on” and trying to be resilient and the importance of acknowledging when it’s appropriate to move on. I just got out of a relationship so I guess this song still applies to my life at the moment too with themes of “trying to let go” and “moving in without that person in your life”

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

We recorded “Begin” with Chris Peruch at the top of a local Wollongong record store Music Farmers. This was a match made in heaven as Chris loves the music that we are into and was super on board recreating and reimagining the shoegaze sound

What or who influenced the concept for the music video?

An online AI generator! We were looking for cool ideas and somehow “fairy and devil playing a game of chess” came up

Where and when did you film and who did you work with?

We filmed the music video in a shared creative workspace in Bellambi with our good friends Josh Fogarty and Liam Jordan . 

Any upcoming shows?

We have an upcoming show with dust in Sydney on Friday at OAF, we also have some super special unannounced shows coming up soon too

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I’m currently really into Narrowhead’s new album ‘Moments Of Clarity’ , Sunami and Linkin Park’s ‘Hybrid theory’

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

We plan to play heaps more shows and put out more music!!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

That would have to be Mexican food, specifically Gringas Tacos located in Tarrawanna in gong. Super dope place to hang out and also it’s connected to a super yummy brewery “Reub Goldberg Brewing Machine”

Where are you currently based?

Gold Coast lad, born and raised. Got a love/hate relationship with this place, it has definitely moulded me into the artist I am today.

How did you first get into Punk/Rap?

First started getting into underground rap around 2016/2017, back when Soundcloud was at its peak. I used to walk to school every day listening to lil peep and lil tracy, xxxtentacian and so many other G.O.A.T.S. As for ‘Punk’ music, I’ve always been around different genres of rock growing up because of my Dad. He’s from London and grew up in the 70’s, so bands like Pink Floyd, The Sex Pistols and Queen were always on the radio or TV. Say what you want about Queen, but they were Punk as fuck. Same with Elton John and ABBA. Punk to me is just creating something new and having an impact on the world and that’s what that lot did.

What’s been happening recently?

Not much. Just started playing that new Hogwarts game.

Your latest song Oi C**T is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

My city. Gold Coast is just a cesspool and I’m a product of my environment. I like to indulge sometimes. IYKYK

How did the track name come about?

It’s something I say on a daily basis

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

Recorded this track in my room off a couple green lizzy’s about a month ago. The beat is produced by this guy in Russia called Pluck Sunset. He’s crazy talented, super underrated. I got the homie Hidden to master the track on his PC cause he’s got all the crazy mastering plug-ins that I don’t have.

How did you approach the recording process?

Green lizzy’s

Who or what influences your sound?

So many things influence me and my sound. Definitely my friends, my city, Machine Girl, Nascar Aloe, Nirvana is a big influence as well. To be honest with you, I think my biggest inspiration is myself, not in like a cocky way but I just feel like I’m my own worst critique and I’m always trynna one up myself. Maybe it’s healthy, or maybe it’ll slowly drive me insane.

What other artists in the underground scene do you run with?

All the iwishh clique. Sabre, Med3vil, Digital Girl, Kl0ri, Pukeslxt, Omnirahn. Just all my friends. They mean so much to me. There’s too many people to list but they know who they are.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Going through a weird mid-west emo phase at the moment but I bump Violent Soho, Nirvana and Smashing Pumpkins religiously. And of course, all the iwishh clique. Also super random but savage garden be hittin different lately. Oh and Joji.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

Keep making music, playing shows, and finishing this Hogwarts game.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Cheeky Nandos and anywhere as long as I got a pack of Marlboro Golds and I’m with the homies. 

Insta: @wearenolongerkids

Where are you currently based? 

I’m currently based in Boorloo/Perth.

How did you first start in music? 

I grew up in an Italian family, my Nonno had an amazing operatic voice, my Nonna loved singing and my  Dad used to sing and play in a band when he was young. I remember he would often have band practice at  the house and I’d listen (to the singers) wanting to front the band just like them. So from then on I was THAT  kid. The one who would be in all the talent competitions and all the musicals. It wasn’t until I was much  older and had more life experience that song writing really became my number one.

Your latest single ‘Michael Cera’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

When I wrote ‘Michael Cera’ I was listening to a lot of Vampire Weekend and just really enjoying the  playfulness of their earlier albums and how percussive their music was…so that definitely influenced the  sound. It felt refreshing to write something fun that people could clap and sing along to and have a laugh at,  but still had a lot of heart. Also my brother is heavily influenced by 90s grunge and he did all the guitar work  on the track so he brought the 90s fuzz/garage vibes which was a perfect fit.

How did you go about writing this track? 

The idea came about when I was dating a guy who smiled like Michael Cera. As soon as I realised this I just  HAD to tell him straight away, so that’s where the chorus ‘you smile like Michael Cera’ came from. It was  actually the first part I wrote (I was driving at the time) and I couldn’t wait to get home to write the rest! I felt  I had so much to say about this person and our situation so the lyrics just poured out of me. The thing I find  most amusing though, is when I told him that he smiled like Michael Cera he absolutely hated it, and then I  went and wrote a whole song about it, with a music video and all.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who did you work with?

After I wrote the song I shared it with my brother (Token Friend) and then he came back with a draft version  of the production for the track (drums, bass and guitar) in logic which I absolutely loved and then I recorded  my vocals from home, added some extra touches and lots of live claps and BVs. Our drummer (Jasper) then  recorded live drums at ‘Debaser Studio’ and Andy Lawson mixed and mastered the song, as well as adding  some of his magic to the production.

What does this single mean to you? 

‘Michael Cera’ was the song that marked the beginning of a new sound for me, and it felt pretty special as  my brother did most of the production. We have always really bonded over our love of music, but it’s only  been the past couple of years that we’ve decided to make it more collaborative and it’s been the best move  for both of us. There’s something about making music with a sibling, there’s a depth of understanding and  feel which I swear is only in the blood, and it’s beautiful to be able to share the joy and the wins with each  other.

Who are you listening to at the moment? 

‘What are rockstars doing today’ by Magic Dirt, it is such an underrated album.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023? 

After this single I’m presenting an installation at ‘Strange Exhibition’ in Perth, my piece will be called ‘The  Michael Cera Experience’ and it will be an audio/visual experience that will be oh so very strange and  humorous. Very grateful to have been selected. After that I will be releasing 2 more singles, with the EP  coming out later this year, playing some more shows, and hopefully acting opposite Michael Cera (haha I  wish).

Favourite food and place to hangout? 

I am pasta obsessed. I also love chocolate and make myself a hot chocolate (or 2) every single day.  Somehow I never get sick of it.

My fave place to hang out…well believe it or not, I’m a total homebody, but if I have to choose somewhere  else other than home it would have to be the beach or a walk in nature, and really anywhere with a dog. I  find nature super calming and great for my creativity.

Skyuka: triple j Unearthed | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Where are you currently based?

Nashville, TN!

What’s been happening recently?

I’ve been on the road a bunch, got to make my Opry debut, and now just released a new EP!

Your latest EP Greatest Show On Dirt was released on May 5, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

It was really important to me to dig deeper into what “my sound” is. I really just tried to follow my instincts on the sound and production, as well as just letting the band play and do their thing. I didn’t want to micromanage the music, and my producers were great collaborators and leaders in the studio. As far as the songwriting goes just I tried to really peel back some more layers of myself, and be as honest as possible.

What inspired the title track ‘Greatest Show On Dirt’?

My friend Trannie Anderson brought the title to a writers retreat I was on with  her, Jake Mitchell and Matt McGinn. We all immediately thought it was an amazing title, but we weren’t sure what it should be about. My first thought was that greatest show on dirt would have something to do with Rodeo… I used to have a horse but I mainly just drank beer and took her on trail rides so writing a song about the rodeo wouldn’t really be authentic to me. Then we thought about it being more of a throwback to an old flame. Summer love with the guy who had it all, Hollywood looks, all the right lines, and a truck to take you riding around the back roads all summer. Even though it didn’t work out, Looking back on the memory has a very dreamy, cinematic nostalgia to it.

What does this EP mean to you?

This EP represents a new chapter for me. I think these are some of the best and most personal songs I’ve written, and I feel like myself, the band, the songwriters and the producers all brought the music to life in a way that feels authentically “me”.

Please tell us about the accompanying singles film clips, the inspiration and filming process.

I worked with Ford Fairchild for all of the music videos for “Greatest Show On Dirt.” His energy and creativity is so infectious! The video for “She’s No Good For Me” shows me throwing out items from my past as I move into this new version of myself. For the “Ours” video, I had my guitar player play my toxic ex.  This video will also always hold a special place in my heart because it was the day I got the call from Terri Clark to say I was gonna make my Opry debut. The “Greatest Show On Dirt” video shows a mini me and her first love.  It also features my band. For “Red Roses & Red Flags,” I was able to try out my acting skills!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

The Bros. Landreth

What do you like to do away from music?

I love to hunt, fish, cook, play golf, mountain bike and really anything that allows me to spend time outdoors.  I have also gotten into boxing lately.  It is a great workout.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

A lot more new music and a lot of touring!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I love all food haha. And I’ll hangout wherever there’s cold beer, good music, and no crowds.

Instagram: @megpatrickmusic

Twitter: @MegPatrickMusic

Facebook: /MegPatrickMusic

Website: https://www.meghanpatrickmusic.com

Where are you currently based?

Salt Lake City, UT

How did Krooked Kings form?

It originally started around 2017 with Oli Martin writing songs in a fraternity basement on an acoustic guitar. Oli finished some tunes and soon reached out to Paul Colgan to add another guitar in the mix. Fast forward a few years through multiple iterations of the band for live shows and the core members ultimately became clear before our debut LP, “The Comedown” was released in 2021. “The Comedown” was a more collaborative album than previous works and additionally included Matt Monosson on bass, Dave Macey on keys, and Quinn Casper on the drums. Since then, the 5 of us have been touring, writing and recording together and have all committed to making music a full time thing.

What’s been happening recently?

As of late we’ve been enjoying having some time back in SLC to unwind before our next couple tours and another “mini” album. We’ve got an opening leg of a tour in a week or so with Rodrigo y Gabriela through Texas and some of California which were all stoked about. Immediately after that we’re going to record the next project with Jackson Phillips AKA Daywave. Then we get a little bit more downtime before the big boy tour In the fall which will last around 2.5 months all over North America and a handful of Europe dates.

Your new album ‘All Out Of Good Days’ is out on May 11, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

In terms of sonic inspiration we are all over the place as a band. We have a lot of overlap in the indie / rock realm but still have our own niche tastes which end up contributing in a cool way; we always end up having something unique to pitch in. Much of the songwriting gathers influence from other cool stuff that bands we like are doing, as well as just stuff we experience and see in our daily lives.

How did you go about writing the album?

Oli would generally start by writing a chord progression then bringing it to the band. We would then hash it out, making changes to arrangement if needed, adding or changing lyrics, figuring out the instrumentation and so on. From there we recorded some rough demos and sent them to our label, Nobody Gets It, and our producer, Daywave. At that point we trimmed the fat a bit and got a more focused vision of the album as a whole and made the studio recordings in Daywave’s studio.

What does this album mean to you?

This album means a whole lot to all of us. It feels a lot more mature and professional than our previous one. The more time we’ve spent together as a band has definitely improved our ability to collaborate and lean in to our individual strengths. This has resulted with a really cool final product that we are all very proud of. There are some darker tones in this album, and while it may come off as depressing, we are just people who experience the whole gamut of emotions like everyone else and chose to harness them into these ten songs. This album is raw and emotional and you’ll surely get to know us better after giving it a couple listens.

Where and when did you record, produce and master and who did you work with?

We were in Jackson Phillip’s (Daywave) studio in Silver Lake, Los Angeles and recorded the whole album in August 2022, with the exception of a couple songs that Oli and Dave made with Jackson prior to the whole band driving out. Jackson did all of the production on the album, he is super talented and helped us use the demos as general outlines for the studio songs but made them not sound like shit.

How did you approach the recording process?

For the recording process we re-recorded everything in Jackson’s studio except for most of the drums which were recorded in the bands studio in Salt Lake which is not a studio at all it is Quinn’s bedroom. We were slightly limited on time so it made more sense to use the original drum takes and re record the guitars, keyboards and vocals in LA. The recording process was a little odd at first as all five of us and Daywave did it all together so it took a few hours til we got our workflow locked in but then we cruised through the album. We ultimately found a smooth process that allowed for collaboration among all 6 of us, all while maintaining a consistent feel thematically and sonically.

You’ve sold over 13000 tickets to your now sold out West Coast North America tour, all before the album has even been released, how does this feel and what can your USA fans expect from these upcoming shows?

Wow, that’s crazy I didn’t realize that. We are so grateful to have our fans and are happy to have the opportunity to share our music with them, both digitally and at shows. It is so rewarding to have people come up to us and share with us how our music has had an impact on them. It’s pretty surreal. In terms of upcoming shows you can definitely expect an upgrade in pretty much every aspect, in addition to playing bigger rooms and having access to better sound systems and all that we have some cool lighting stuff that’s sure to make it a fun experience. And of course, musically the shows are bound to be a whole new beast as well. We’ve been writing, recording and rehearsing so you’re sure to hear some new tunes as well!

Any plans to come to Australia?

As soon as is physically possible. I think that each and every one of us is dying to go to Australia, just gotta wait for the right timing it seems.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I (Quinn) have been listening to a decent amount of Crumb, Good Morning, Connan Mockasin, and Grizzly bear lately.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2023?

Just the two tours I mentioned and another recording session with Daywave in LA after tour #1. I think we’re all pretty excited to get back on the road again and to be back in the studio again, too. Aside from that we’ll probably just be kicking it in Salt Lake and spending time here with our friends and family.

Favourite food and place to hangout? 

One local favorite here in Salt Lake City for the band is Caputo’s, an Italian deli right up the road from our house. You can almost always count on Matt showing up to rehearsal with a sandwich in his hand, I’d say it’s Captuo’s about 90% of the time.

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