What are the origins of Pretty In Pink? How did the project start?

Once upon a time I finally finished a PhD thesis. In the weeks after I submitted, and before I even knew I'd passed, I would tuck myself into my bedroom at night and do what I really wanted to do - write Pretty In Pink songs. Then I'd fall asleep watching Buffy episodes on the couch.

It was at the very start of COVID lockdowns in Naarm. I had a one-year-old sleeping in the next room. There was no hope of playing shows or recording in a studio. It was the first time I had complete control of the process and I loved it.

Tell us a bit about the new album Delicates. What does it mean to you?

Delicates is a new life. I've had a band. We played shows. I went to Europe and toured on my own. My Dad died. Now a new collection of songs. How lucky are we to have so many lives in such a short amount of time on Earth? Delicatesrepresents some of my most precious moments.

Are there any inspirations you look to beyond music when writing or performing?

Yes, I think I process through music. My first album was about establishing how I wanted to sound. Pillows came to terms with two miscarriages and moving from Tasmania to Melbourne.

Delicates says goodbye to my Dad and reflects on love and how we all keep growing.

Name the five songs that have informed your songwriting more than any others.

Fireworks – Radiator Hospital
I came across Radiator Hospital via Cut Your Bangs, which Girlpool covered in 2014. Their song Fireworks makes me feel so much, yet it's only distorted guitar and vocals.

The Glow Pt. 2 – The Microphones
I spent a winter in Montreal finishing my thesis between Heart Beach tours. The Microphones were my constant companion - lyrics over beautiful discord. I'd often have to turn it off because tears would be streaming down my face.

Your Ghost – Kristin Hersh
Someone at a show said I sound like Kristin Hersh from the 1990s. I listen to Your Ghost a lot.

Pink Pony Club – Chappell Roan
Chappell Roan's music is so playful. A friend and I bought tickets last-minute to Laneway this year and went down after work. She made margaritas in her kids' drink bottles, which we left empty at the entrance, and we had a ball.

Where Is Your Love Now – This Is Lorelei
Nate Amos is a master in how to transform darkness into the most beautiful story-lyrics, over beats and guitar hooks. I aspire to do that.

What Australian artists are you listening to at the moment?

Renovator's Delight, Leah Senior, High Shine, SCRAPS, Body Type.

How do you hope your music might impact listeners?

I hope listeners like it and tell their friends. Word of mouth is my favourite algorithm.

I hope it gives them a way of feeling or making sense of something, like it helped me to do while I was making it.