A Quick Chat With The Tortured Souls

Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your single No Tomorrows?

No Tomorrows reflects on moments past and opportunities lost, and how often in life and relationships there may still be a time to remedy and rescue things from falling apart, but there is a point when it’s too late, and no words or promises can change the new course life has taken.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?

I seem to be influenced by everything and everyone, and it’s not an easy way to be. Often thoughts, mostly sad in nature, move me to writing. Or seeing or hearing things that wipe me out, led me to pick up the guitar. I’m sure I’m influenced by all the musicians I love (when I’m in the middle of writing) but the begining is always from feeling a certain way, not from deciding I would like to write a new song.

What’s the creative process like for you?

It’s feeling and living the feelings of what is front of mind. If the song isn’t about something personal, I imagine being in the middle of what has moved me into writing mode, and how that would feel. I try to find words that feel appropriate with the movement of the melody, as in, the sound of the word matches the melody as well as the meaning. It takes me a long time, and songs evolve considerably, even if there is one sections that always stays constant, most of the time, it’s a journey that takes quite some time and is all consuming - at night, in the middle of the night, in the morning and during the day, I’m always trying to shape it into something I am comfortable with.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry what would it be?

That’s a tricky question as things are the way they are due to everyone (involved) in the process of playing and producing and listening, having an agenda that may not align with others and what they want and need. And then of course, it’s the business of music and the truth that nearly all things music/arts are governed by the financial upside (even if it doesn’t start that way - it often ends up that way). Everyone needs to earn a living, but there is a considerable imbalance between people making significant money, and others, just as talented not earning much at all (or being heard at all). As with many things in the world, the imbalance amongst those with and those without (money/streams/gigs/opportunities) is a tough reality.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?

It would lack peace and truth, and feelings (when I’m writing or playing) that seem to be connected to something beautiful and pure and uplifting. Fast or slow, happy or sad, it doesn’t seem to matter, I leave this tricky life to a place that feels purposeful and wonderful.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?

I would love to collaborate with Tom Waits or Willie Nelson, just because I think they are the most remarkable, creative writer/performers. To hangout and listen to their wisdom and hear how they move through the process of writing music and what moves and inspires them, would be fantastic.

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?

Just hang in there and write from their truth and what they love within the songs. I think the music/songs that take you somewhere (and make you feel amazing) are those being performed within the passion of loving what has been created. Writing or performing songs that have been written for another persons benefit never seem to have the same spirit/magic.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?

Man, I can’t say. I have met so many people, well known and not known, and couldn’t choose. But, anyone that cares about loving what they do and loving and respecting others, would all be at the top of the list.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

Can’t wait to tour. Hoping to get the album out and then travel far and wide and play to anyone who will listen. There would be nothing more wonderful.