Interview – Maz Totterdell
From one sensation to another: today we can offer an interview with the obscenely talented Maz Totterdell. Channelling early Laura Marling without the plastic Americana, and drawing on a glorious tradition of female singer-songwriters starting with Joni Mitchell, Maz writes chipper, evocative folk music that could drag a smile from even the most seasoned hipster. From the bouncy optimism of ‘Smile On Sunshine’ to the introspective and touching ‘Counting On My Fingers’, her debut album Sweep is set to take the country by storm, and she was kind enough to answer a few questions before she’s overwhelmed by mainstream success. Oh, and did I mention that she’s only fifteen?
How are you feeling about the album, now that the release date is getting so close?
So far, the album’s done really well and I’m happy with how it’s been selling, but I’m really looking forward to when the hard copy is officially released because of all the effort I put into the artwork.
Have you felt under pressure recording Sweep after such a great response to your BBC Introducing session?
I actually recorded the album before the BBC Introducing session, when I was fourteen. I didn’t feel under any pressure whilst recording it though – it was done in a shed in the middle of nowhere, all the musicians were friends of mine, and in tea breaks we had picnics on the grass. It was a very laid-back atmosphere, perfect for recording a debut album!
How long has it taken to write the record? Was it an immediate reaction to your increased exposure, or were most of the tracks already written and in place?
I wrote quite a lot of the tracks when I was twelve and thirteen, and some just a few weeks before I started recording the album! So really, it took me about two and a half years to write the album.
How would you define success as a musician?
Success, for me, is being happy and comfortable with what I do – so if I end up with a decent fanbase who all love and get inspiration from my music, that’s success! I’m not too bothered about megastardom and international fame.
How did you get into music initially?
My parents are both musicians so I grew up going to gigs and watching them play guitar in the living room. I started playing guitar when I was about eleven and started writing songs straight away.
Do you see your age as something that could hinder people’s impressions of your music?
It’s very difficult question – I think age is just a number and should be overlooked, since it’s about the music, not the person – but I also understand that people might be slightly put off listening to my music because of my age. Saying that, there are a great number of musicians my age anyway, take Birdy for example.
There are elements of Lisa Mitchell and early Laura Marling to your songs, at least to me. Who have been your major musical influences?
Funnily enough, Lisa and Laura are both two of my biggest influences – they both inspired me a great deal, especially with songwriting. Also, Florence & the Machine (her lyrics are so beautiful). Taylor Swift inspired me to start writing songs in the first place, so I guess I owe her a lot!
What’s the next step and your plans for the rest of 2012?
I’m playing at a few festivals in the summer, and as many gigs as possible. I guess I’ll just have to see what happens – 2012 has been a good year for me already, and I’m just hoping it’ll get better and better!
Monday 30 April 2012
Sunday 29 April 2012
Thursday 26 April 2012
The Down side of choice!
Drowning? The iTunes Store Now Has 28 Million Songs...
The content glut keeps getting worse, not better, and this is now a very serious challenge for artists of all levels. Because even musicians that make incredible music are finding themselves drowned, undiscovered, and frustrated by statistics like these.
"We now have a catalog of over 28 million songs and 45,000 movies..."
Apple chief financial officer Peter Oppenheimer during the company's quarterly earnings call on Tuesday.
A figure like 28 million is almost impossible to conceive. But it would now take a human being more than 266 years to complete the entire iTunes collection front-to-finish, or approximately three lifetimes. Of course, very few music fans are plunging the depths of obscurity to this level, meaning that the winners are typically those that have the luck, resources, and talent to land plum promotional slots on the iTunes splash page (or pages). Or, more likely, the blessings of a broader push that includes things like major terrestrial radio (yes), a major artist collaboration, or a great touring slot (festival or otherwise).
Which of course means that most artists are not cutting through, based on simple mathematics. But while most musicians lose money on iTunes, Apple is now generating mini-ransoms on the service. "The iTunes Store generated all-time record results with revenue of almost $1.9 billion in the March quarter, an increase of 35 percent year-over-year, thanks to continued strong sales of music, video and apps," Oppenheimer continued.
But this also represents a huge challenge - and opportunity - for music startups and services. Because there's simply way too much stuff! Which starts to explain Spotify's push towards app-based curation, Pandora's insistence on limited collections, X5's clever approach towards SEO and digital packaging, and constant angling by discovery-oriented startups like Moodagent and Soundrop.
But perhaps artists are struggling with the most complicated riddle of them all. And the sad reality is that the next Jimi Hendrix is probably now buried in a pile of 28 million, statistically doomed to a life of obscurity.
The content glut keeps getting worse, not better, and this is now a very serious challenge for artists of all levels. Because even musicians that make incredible music are finding themselves drowned, undiscovered, and frustrated by statistics like these.
"We now have a catalog of over 28 million songs and 45,000 movies..."
Apple chief financial officer Peter Oppenheimer during the company's quarterly earnings call on Tuesday.
A figure like 28 million is almost impossible to conceive. But it would now take a human being more than 266 years to complete the entire iTunes collection front-to-finish, or approximately three lifetimes. Of course, very few music fans are plunging the depths of obscurity to this level, meaning that the winners are typically those that have the luck, resources, and talent to land plum promotional slots on the iTunes splash page (or pages). Or, more likely, the blessings of a broader push that includes things like major terrestrial radio (yes), a major artist collaboration, or a great touring slot (festival or otherwise).
Which of course means that most artists are not cutting through, based on simple mathematics. But while most musicians lose money on iTunes, Apple is now generating mini-ransoms on the service. "The iTunes Store generated all-time record results with revenue of almost $1.9 billion in the March quarter, an increase of 35 percent year-over-year, thanks to continued strong sales of music, video and apps," Oppenheimer continued.
But this also represents a huge challenge - and opportunity - for music startups and services. Because there's simply way too much stuff! Which starts to explain Spotify's push towards app-based curation, Pandora's insistence on limited collections, X5's clever approach towards SEO and digital packaging, and constant angling by discovery-oriented startups like Moodagent and Soundrop.
But perhaps artists are struggling with the most complicated riddle of them all. And the sad reality is that the next Jimi Hendrix is probably now buried in a pile of 28 million, statistically doomed to a life of obscurity.
Tuesday 17 April 2012
Gig Diary ......
THE PATRICK JAMES PEARSON BAND
ONE OF THE BEST LIVE BANDS IN THE COUNTRY
SET TO PLAY INTIMATE GIG AT THE STUDIO LOUNGE
After rocking Glastonbury Festival, an amazingly successful UK tour with Hard-Fi and a triumphant show at the world famous Shepherd’s Bush Empire, The Patrick James Pearson Band are back out on tour and they're coming to Totnes to play the Studio Lounge. Taking place on Friday 27th April, it’s another must-see gig from local DIY music promoters The Black Bird Collective!
With three sell-out shows under their wings, The Black Bird Collective are starting to make quite a name for themselves by putting on atmospheric nights of top quality up and coming artists and this promises to be another cracker.
The PJP Band sound has been linked via reviews to artists including The Stooges, At the Drive In, David Bowie, John Lennon and Les Savy Fav. Frontman Patrick is a big fan of all things Sub Pop and this “grunge” attitude is evident in the band’s live performances which are high on energy, conviction and attitude.
The PJP Band have been going down a storm on BBC 6 Music with Tom Robinson calling them “Astonishing for a 3 piece keyboard driven outfit, real grit and power, more power than most guitar bands”.
After a triumphant performance at Glastonbury 2011, the band were the ‘most shared’ artist on the BBC Glastonbury website home page for a good 36 hours - beating off competition from Ed Sheeran and Wu Tang Clan.
The PJP Band have been in the studio with record producer extraordinaire Pete Miles (The King Blues, Crazy Arm), working on a new 5 track EP - ‘Disciplines’ - which includes the single ‘I Am A Racer‘ due for release this month.
“Imagine Sufjan Stevens doing ungodly battle with Fugazi while Ziggy and Iggy look on, preening and punching” - Lee Trewhela, What’s On
With world domination just around the corner, it’s unlikely you’ll see this band live in a venue as intimate as the Studio Lounge again, so book tickets now to avoid disappointment!
Tickets are very limited and cost £4 in advance from The Studio Lounge on 01803 862267 or online at www.studioloungetotnes.com and www.wegottickets.com or £5 on the door.
You can find out more about The Black Bird Collective online at www.facebook.com/theblackbirdcollective
Sunday 15 April 2012
Saturday 14 April 2012
Review -Open the Floodgates
Devon band The Rising return with a new E.P. hot on the heels of last years bombastic creation that was " Lines of Evolution"
The new five track E.P "Open the Floodgates"however is quite a different animal. Minimal in tone but still with a shameless pop hook. That is fast becoming the groups signature .
Something that slaps you in the face on opening tracks " See how we move" ,Again And Again ,both dispensing with the landscaping form of the last E.P instead it seems to have grown into a newly developed synth heart beat courtesy of new member jamie Rowland .
With the latter almost Begging for a summer club remix.
If your not humming along by the time third track "Take Me There" hits your ears then you surely must be dead .
To the bands credit they never exchange the hook for great lyrical content. Something that can be overlooked, but that's never the case here.
Like all good parties we leave early to experience the comedown that is "What Love Feels Like" probably their best songwriting to date and demonstrates the bands growth . A slow atmospheric grower that builds up into an almost gospel peek " put your hand in mine and walk with me to the finish line" Well that's how it should have been left.
Unfortunately the last track "Hold On"( a re-record of a past free download ) Takes up valuable room like the smelly kid at school who hangs around with the cool kids to avoid getting battered. Don't get me wrong it's a great song ,one of my favourites from their back catalog.
The fact that it can be turned into another feel demonstrates this. But considering the band have reportedly spent the last few months writing ten or so tracks a week makes it even more maddening that it has been given the room on the record.It really should have been left as a hidden track or a reprise on any future album, in favour of a new song.
This however is a very minor thing and one that shouldn't detract from the fact that The Rising are a force with a long future ahead of them. Don't be scared, they write good tunes , can sing , have great lyrics.Why relegate them to a guilty pleasure ? Be proud , come out and say we salute you!
Their boys in a band .Does that make them a boy band? No they are quite simply a great band that demands your support!
( Jackson cooper Riviera FM )
The new five track E.P "Open the Floodgates"however is quite a different animal. Minimal in tone but still with a shameless pop hook. That is fast becoming the groups signature .
Something that slaps you in the face on opening tracks " See how we move" ,Again And Again ,both dispensing with the landscaping form of the last E.P instead it seems to have grown into a newly developed synth heart beat courtesy of new member jamie Rowland .
With the latter almost Begging for a summer club remix.
If your not humming along by the time third track "Take Me There" hits your ears then you surely must be dead .
To the bands credit they never exchange the hook for great lyrical content. Something that can be overlooked, but that's never the case here.
Like all good parties we leave early to experience the comedown that is "What Love Feels Like" probably their best songwriting to date and demonstrates the bands growth . A slow atmospheric grower that builds up into an almost gospel peek " put your hand in mine and walk with me to the finish line" Well that's how it should have been left.
Unfortunately the last track "Hold On"( a re-record of a past free download ) Takes up valuable room like the smelly kid at school who hangs around with the cool kids to avoid getting battered. Don't get me wrong it's a great song ,one of my favourites from their back catalog.
The fact that it can be turned into another feel demonstrates this. But considering the band have reportedly spent the last few months writing ten or so tracks a week makes it even more maddening that it has been given the room on the record.It really should have been left as a hidden track or a reprise on any future album, in favour of a new song.
This however is a very minor thing and one that shouldn't detract from the fact that The Rising are a force with a long future ahead of them. Don't be scared, they write good tunes , can sing , have great lyrics.Why relegate them to a guilty pleasure ? Be proud , come out and say we salute you!
Their boys in a band .Does that make them a boy band? No they are quite simply a great band that demands your support!
( Jackson cooper Riviera FM )
Friday 13 April 2012
Fancy a gig this sat 14 at the Spinny ?
STILLYANO were formed in Exeter, Devon in 2002. At the time, this 5-piece consisted of Stilly (lead vocals, lead acoustic, electric guitars), Dan (piano, keyboards, backing vocals), Richey (bass, backing vocals), Dave (rhythm guitars, backing vocals) and Big Al (drums, backing vocals).
Having been gigging in and around the South West, they have gained notoriety for being a band not to be taken lightly or dismissed as "just another local band". They have garnered a reputation as a real treat for those who know how to appreciate quality musicianship, top-notch original material and impeccably tight and talented performances.
Influences go from Bon Jovi to Bread, Dream Theatre to James Taylor, Paul Weller to Oasis. The mainstay of Stillyano's songs are hook-laden riffs, catchy melodies, attention-grabbing arrangements and accessible, yet poignant lyrics often aimed at those who have lived a little. It is music for those who have experienced a few of life's ups and downs. Their songs can pick you up, bring you round and get right down deep under your skin.
In 2010, the original line-up of Stillyano decided to go their separate ways, but after a brief hiatus a new Stillyano is in place consisting of Stilly (vocals/guitar), Seth Dunnett (bass) and Ian Kendray (drums). The new Stillyano hope to head back into the studio for some more writing and recording soon. In the meantime, they plan to gig as much as they can this year across the UK.
A word of advice: catch this band up close while you can.
Having been gigging in and around the South West, they have gained notoriety for being a band not to be taken lightly or dismissed as "just another local band". They have garnered a reputation as a real treat for those who know how to appreciate quality musicianship, top-notch original material and impeccably tight and talented performances.
Influences go from Bon Jovi to Bread, Dream Theatre to James Taylor, Paul Weller to Oasis. The mainstay of Stillyano's songs are hook-laden riffs, catchy melodies, attention-grabbing arrangements and accessible, yet poignant lyrics often aimed at those who have lived a little. It is music for those who have experienced a few of life's ups and downs. Their songs can pick you up, bring you round and get right down deep under your skin.
In 2010, the original line-up of Stillyano decided to go their separate ways, but after a brief hiatus a new Stillyano is in place consisting of Stilly (vocals/guitar), Seth Dunnett (bass) and Ian Kendray (drums). The new Stillyano hope to head back into the studio for some more writing and recording soon. In the meantime, they plan to gig as much as they can this year across the UK.
A word of advice: catch this band up close while you can.
Monday 9 April 2012
Please help!
Looking for a special sponsor for the hottest local music show in the South West . For a one week trial.
Unbelievable rates. Is this you? Or do you know who it maybe ? Great possible first step into radio advertising for local business perhaps! For more info/ rates message me please.
Unbelievable rates. Is this you? Or do you know who it maybe ? Great possible first step into radio advertising for local business perhaps! For more info/ rates message me please.
Saturday 7 April 2012
Who says.....
Who says I can't get the big names on my show ...it's me and that x factor guy Andy Abrahams ( ok so on a flyer )
Thursday 5 April 2012
Castles-Sorry ( single review)
Castles -Sorry
Brixham band Castles finally drop their first professionally recorded studio single in the shape of "Sorry"
and I am anything but sorry to hear it.!
The studio experience seems to have pulled out all the best bits from within the band.
Starting off with a simple nursery rhyme guitar riff and play on word lyrics before the drums and bass turn the ever growing backdrop into a monster musical landscape that seems to match the ever dark and honest lyrical content.
"You found me in this broken ground .You found me in this wasted town "
and thank god we did!
Expecting this band to grow and grow . This is good but i hear a band looking to do much better. The opening shot has only just been fired.!
Brixham band Castles finally drop their first professionally recorded studio single in the shape of "Sorry"
and I am anything but sorry to hear it.!
The studio experience seems to have pulled out all the best bits from within the band.
Starting off with a simple nursery rhyme guitar riff and play on word lyrics before the drums and bass turn the ever growing backdrop into a monster musical landscape that seems to match the ever dark and honest lyrical content.
"You found me in this broken ground .You found me in this wasted town "
and thank god we did!
Expecting this band to grow and grow . This is good but i hear a band looking to do much better. The opening shot has only just been fired.!
Sunday 1 April 2012
Go Maz....
At a mere 15 years of age Maz Totterdell is stamping her name pretty hard on the music scene.
On top of her homework she has managed to squeeze in being featured on BBC Radio 2, 6 Music and BBC Introducing and her debut album Sweep is out on the 2nd April.
Her voice has the maturity of a wise Godmother, reassuring you everything is ok. Her technical ability, sweet nature and composure all add up to an A* in our books.
We predict Maz will be filling headphones far and wide very soon.
Check her out for yourself at the Bull & Gate in Kentish Town on 4th April - and listen above for the mellifluous tones of 'Kaleidoscope'.
Words by Alice Hodge
On top of her homework she has managed to squeeze in being featured on BBC Radio 2, 6 Music and BBC Introducing and her debut album Sweep is out on the 2nd April.
Her voice has the maturity of a wise Godmother, reassuring you everything is ok. Her technical ability, sweet nature and composure all add up to an A* in our books.
We predict Maz will be filling headphones far and wide very soon.
Check her out for yourself at the Bull & Gate in Kentish Town on 4th April - and listen above for the mellifluous tones of 'Kaleidoscope'.
Words by Alice Hodge
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