What’s the band name and what do you ‘do’ in the band?
We’re Spencer Street Soul. I’m Helena and I’m the lead vocalist.
What do you reckon people will say you sound like?
We’ve been told that on a good day we sound like an Australian version of The Commitments.
What do you love about making music?
The freedom it gives you. It doesn’t matter how shitty of a day you’ve had, once you’re up there playing, doing your thing, it makes everything better. It’s an awesome outlet and a way of connecting with people, no matter where you come from.
What do you hate about the music industry?
I’ve had enough of the emphasis that is put on the artist’s looks more than the actual music. If you have the talent and drive, it shouldn’t matter what you look like.
If you could travel back in time and show one of your musical heroes your stuff, who would it be and why?
It would have to be Sharon Jones. I have an incredible respect for her and the passion she shared with the world, not letting anything hold her back. She was a real bad arse soul diva. Also it’s so cool that she had her breakthrough in her 40s.
If you could assassinate one person or band from popular music, who would it and why?
Oooh that’s rough. I don’t think I’d assassinate anyone. Perhaps I’d give a red card to Phil Spector or something. He needs to step away. But I guess they have already taken care of that in a way.
What can a punter expect from your live show?
Energetic, loud and nostalgic music, it will definitely make you move.
