Artist Advent Day 5: The Way After
Written by: Freya Zaidi
Welcome to Day 5 of Next Wave's Artist Advent Calendar! Embark on a melodic journey through this captivating interview, showcasing a band driven by raw creativity and unconventional inspirations. Trace their musical evolution from encountering punk legends on MTV to their shared reverence for The Beatles' diverse artistry. Gain insight into their unorthodox approach as they highlight the significance of their upcoming album, steering clear of industry norms. Discover their ambition to reshape guitar music and uncover their songwriting process, offering a peek into their innovative mindset. Immerse yourself in their music catalog while catching an exclusive preview of their forthcoming album, 'Musical Statues.' This interview is a holiday delight for music enthusiasts craving distinctive and inventive sounds.
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Next Wave: What inspired you to pursue music?
I always had an ear for a melody, but couldn't play an instrument so seeing old punk bands on MTV - especially The Undertones and Buzzcocks - showed me that creativity was more important than technical ability.
Next Wave: Who are your musical influences or role models?
Collectively, each member of the band is huge into The Beatles. We don't necessarily want to ape their sound, but we are definitely influenced by them: Their eclecticism, their wit, the fact that they could be simultaneously mainstream and experimental, their generosity of spirit. It's a lofty goal, but you've got to shoot for the moon haven't you?
Next Wave: What's the most challenging aspect of breaking into the music industry?
We've stopped trying. We want to make an album's worth of recorded music, and you no longer need the industry to do that. We're making the best album we can, and the rest will follow.
Next Wave: Do you have any advice for other up-and-coming musicians trying to make it in the industry?
If I did, I would be a manager! I have no idea how to make it in the industry. We are very fortunate to be able to work and record music, but it took us a long time to get there.
Next Wave: What are your long-term goals and aspirations?
Finish the album, then make another one! Because this album has been delayed, we've already demo'd the second one. It'd be nice to have a body of work to look back on. Bands that have made the type of music we make usually get dismissed as "laddish" or "retro", I'd like to prove it's possible to make guitar music that is 60s influenced but has some relevance to the present day. We'll see what happens.
Next Wave: Can you share a little about your creative process and how you come up with new ideas for songs?
Inspiration likes to find you working. I usually pick up a guitar, play about a bit - maybe an old Beatles song, or something off the radio - make a mistake, and then follow it. My lyrics usually then follow the mood of the song.
Next Wave: What song, ep or album of yours would you recommend to someone who is listening to your music for the first time?
The Way After We've only got two singles out, so please have a listen to both of them: 'Hear The Bird Sing' and 'You Built A Wall' and then please pre-order the album in the New Year, it will be called 'Musical Statues'. And have a very happy Christmas!