A Quick Chat with Chuck Sics

Can you tell me a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘Redo’?
I was really listening to Lonerism and OK Computer a lot. I had also just started figuring out how to work synthesisers into my music, which really inspired a lot of the guitar tones as well.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?
I always come back to the Beatles ultimately, because I think they just filled their arrangements with such interesting melodies and chords. There’s just so much going on in their music, and I’ve always wanted to make similarly rich compositions.

What’s the creative process like for you?
Writing is amazing, but I like keeping songs in my head for as long as I can before recording them. I get a bit scared of recording, because the initial idea is always so potent and sounds so amazing in my mind that it feels impossible to live up to when recording it. So I’m always nervous when I go to record, because I really want to do it justice. So far I’m pretty content with the results, but it’s tough.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?
I think there’s a lot of music under the surface that’s a bit left of centre, particularly in Sydney, that doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves. That might come down to our industry being smaller because we’re a smaller country, but there truly is some fantastic music being made here that should be supported. I’m lucky to call some of them close friends, like Ebs, Yasmina Sadiki, Blake Wares, Skruish, Supahoney, Bindarray and so many more who I admire – they’re all doing so well but MAN – they should be top o’ the freakin’ pops.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?
I think I would just be an enjoyer of music. It might be a little frustrating not being able to do it myself, but maybe I’d do something else. Be a filmmaker or something. I love storytelling.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?
Genesis Owusu. Smiling With No Teeth is an amazing album, and “The Other Black Dog” is probably my fav song on there. I think he has such a unique voice, and such good taste. I feel like he would be really fun to work with.

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?
Just make stuff all the time. Keep exercising the creative muscle. Finding a way to express yourself is a reward in itself. I don’t know much about having a real career, though..

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?
My band. They all make music which sounds nothing like my own, but the love we have transcends that. The way they adapt my parts when we play live, and the way they write music themselves is endlessly interesting to me, and I love it. And all my friends who make music, some I’ve worked with, some I just admire from afar.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?
Not yet, no – but me and my band will be playing July 11th at the Trocadero Room in Enmore, so come hang!