You’ll be launching your new album Into The Stillness on Thursday, September 10 at St Kilda’s Cellar Bar. Can you tell us a little about the album? How does it differ from your debut EP She Won’t Love You?
This is a blues/roots project, something I’ve wanted to explore for a long time. She Won’t Love You was a soul/Motown project, so they are very different. I love performing both genres of music, but this is where my music is at right now.
You’ll be supported by Benjamin Smith and Simon Burke on the night. How does their music complement your own?
Ben is a poetic songwriter who is a big inspiration to me and my music. With his groove ballad, followed by the soulful sounds of Simon Burke on piano, it will really set the tone for what we are doing. Simon’s project The Meltdown is a real soul/Motown style, and I am a huge fan. I have gigged with both these guys in the past, and we’ve always worked really well together. We are on the same page musically. I have a lot of respect and admiration for these guys and I thought they would both work really well as guests on the night.
Who are some of your most prominent musical influences?
Bonnie Raitt, Joni Mitchell, The Waifs, local girl Suzie Dickinson, Neil Young, even Amy Winehouse.
If you go on an all expenses paid, extensive tour of any other country, which would you pick and why?
Europe. I couldn’t think of anywhere better to play my music. They have a true appreciation for what you do as an artist.
