So then, what’s the band name and what do you ‘do’ in the band?
The band name is my name, Hayden Calnin and I sing, write, play and produce.
What do you reckon people will say you sound like?
I’ve been told I’m the love child of Bon Iver and James Blake. But I like to think I sound like Hayden Calnin.
What do you love about making music?
I’m all about the production side. I’ve been recording since Windows Sound Recorder was available on Windows ’95… Obviously I don’t use that anymore. I’m very much Pro Tools and Abelton oriented these days. And of course playing live is always a thrill.
What do you hate about the music industry?
Not much. It’s a tough industry to break into, but if you are committed to it, it’ll eventually fall into your lap… I’m hoping…
If you could travel back in time and show one of your musical heroes your stuff, who would it be and why?
Most definitely Pink Floyd. They were doing some interesting stuff in their day and it’d be interesting to hear their thoughts on my music. I mean, it’s Pink Floyd…
If you could assassinate one person or band from popular music, who would it and why?
Kanye West. Not for his music but for his arrogance… I really love his producing skills and talent but the guy needs to take a chill pill.
What can a punter expect from your live show?
Quote from a guy at a gig – “I love coming to Hayden’s shows to get lost in heartfelt vocals and beautiful melodies”. Pretty nice of him to say, I reckon, but from my point of view it’s just real storytelling and plenty of loops and weird noise.
What’ve you got to sell CD-wise?
My EP City is out now and features my current single For My Help as well as my last single Summer on it. It’s my debut so that’s pretty much it at the moment.
When’s the gig and with who?
I’ll then be launching my new EP City at The Workers Club in Fitzroy on Friday August 24.
Anything else to add?
Keep the beat coming, Beat Mag. I read you every week.
