LISTEN: GIHE on Soho Radio with Big Joanie 21.09.22

Tash and Kate were back on Soho Radio’s airwaves playing loads of new music from some of their favourite female, non-binary and LGBTQIA+ artists, and Mari offered some of her “musical musings” too. They enthused about the eclectic mix of tracks on the playlist, their love for London duo Scrounge, and Kate revealed that her fear of technology stems from watching Terminator 2: Judgement Day on repeat throughout her childhood.

They were thrilled to have Chardine, Estella and Steph aka DIY punk legends Big Joanie join them on air again to talk about their latest single ‘Confident Man’, which is taken from the trio’s upcoming second album Back Home, due for release on 4th November. The band also spoke about their recent work organising Decolonise Fest, the inspiration behind the artwork on their new album, working with amazing producer Margo Broom at Hermitage Works Studios in North London, and their top tips for surviving life on the road whilst touring.

Listen below:

 

Tracklist
Noga Erez ft. Missy Elliott – NAILS
Maury Blu, Peaches – Vashti Part One
Lucy Dacus – Night Shift
Scrounge – Starve
O Hell – I Watch The Women
AGAAMA – Blackbox Oracle
Moglii, Palmaria – Volcano
TSHA, Clementine Douglas – Dancing In The Shadows
Tokky Horror – Jazz Music
New Pagans – Better People
SPRINTS – Literary Mind
Amaroun – Brown Skin Beauty
Perera Elsewhere – Who I Am
Big Joanie – Confident Man
**Interview with Big Joanie**
Gustaf – Best Behaviour
Grandmas House – Body
Connie Constance – Mood Hoover
Brutus – Victoria
adults – things we achieve
DIVES – Say
Zahra Haji Fath Ali Tehrani – Waiting
th’sheridans – Luka
Perfume Genius – Queen
Jemma Freeman & The Cosmic Something – Helen Is A Reptile
The Big Moon – Trouble

(you can listen back to the our original 2019 interview with Big Joanie here too)

PLAYLIST: August 2022

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of electronic sounds, guitar anthems and indie tunes for your listening pleasure. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below, and make sure you press play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

Halina Rice – ‘Helix’
What do I love more than dreamy songs full of feelings? Obscure electronica! This track is a big slice of it. It comes from London-based artist Halina Rice, who has announced a new album, Elision, which is set for release on 30th September. This track ‘Helix’ fuses natural and analog sounds together in order to evoke a place that don’t exist – a parallel world. LOVE IT. (Tash Walker)

Nameless Twin – ‘My Eyes Went Black’
I’m obsessed with this debut single from industrial/electronic duo Nameless Twin, aka Alicia Rei Kim and Ryan Osterman. It’s shadowy, heavy, but delicate in places too. Osterman is also in a band called Holy Fawn, who I’m going to see live at the end of September. ‘My Eyes Went Black’ is available to download for free on bandcamp now. (Kate Crudgington)

Obli – ‘Hei’
This is my absolute favourite song at the moment, no words will do it justice! Just please kick back and bathe in its beauty. (TW)

Connie Constance – ‘Till The World’s Awake’
An indie-dance track of her dreams, I feel ya Connie! This is taken from her new album, Miss Power, which is due on 4th November. ‘English Rose’ has still got to be one of my fave songs of 2019. (TW)

adults – ‘things we achieve’
Having charmed us playing live at our sold gig at Sebright Arms last month celebrating/comiserating Charmpit’s last ever London show, South London band adults are fast becoming firm favourites. With this latest single, they reflect on the pressures of living in a capitalist society with their trademark irresistibly blissful, catchy musicality and fuzzy, frenetic drive, with shades of the joyous, danceable allure of Los Campesinos. for everything, always, the upcoming debut album from adults is out in October via Fika Recordings. (Mari Lane)

Big Joanie – ‘In My Arms’
Is it even a GIHE playlist if we don’t include a Big Joanie track? This is the latest single from the trio, taken from their upcoming second album, Back Home, which is set for release on 4th November via Daydream Library Series/Kill Rock Stars. I can’t wait to hear the record in full. (KC)

BRUTUS – ‘Liar’
The latest single from Belgian heavy trio Brutus. Taken from their upcoming third album Unison Life, which is set for release on 21st October via Hassle Records/Sargent House, ‘Liar’ is a heavy lament that criticises the lies we tell ourselves in order to keep a false sense of calm. I’ve been stomping around to this all month. (KC)

Scrounge – ‘HIT’
GIHE favourites Scrounge are back with this belter of a new single, taken from their upcoming debut mini album Sugar, Daddy, which is set for release on 9th September. We’re big fans of everything that Lucy & Luke create and I reckon Mari would book them for every GIHE gig if she could, but you can catch them playing live in East London at Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes on 7th September. Pre-order their upcoming album here. (KC)

The Dead Zoo – ‘Do Clean / Do Dirrrty’
London garage-rockers The Dead Zoo have returned with this gritty new single. Speaking about the track, the band explain: “it’s about seeking that unknown place where you can find yourself…this paints a visceral sense of hitting the road, living outside of the law.” (KC)

Deux Furieuses – ‘Know The Score’
The poignant new single from GIHE faves Deux Furieuses, ‘Know The Score’ is an immense, raging anthem confronting society’s failure to properly protect women and marginalised genders from violence. Challenging the patriarchy from the off, the track hits you with its potent, riotous energy and fierce, colossal musicality as the all-too-resonant refrain “say her name” echoes with eerie timelessness. (ML)

Electric Pets – ‘That Way’
The latest single from Electric Pets, ‘That Way’ is a perfectly scuzzy anthem of self love; a two fingers up to society’s expectations of what we should be. Showcasing Emma Buckley’s raw, impassioned vocals, it builds with a fierce emotion to a catchy slice of garage-infused rock. (ML)

Miss Kill – ‘All You Gotta Do’
The latest single from alternative duo Miss Kill, taken from their debut EP Don’t Tell Me Twice, which is set for release on September 16th via AWAL. Described as a song about “feeling completely intoxicated, vulnerable and needing someone to to care, but they are refusing to,” ‘All You Gotta Do’ is full of bittersweet vocals and heavy reverb, reflecting the clouded head space that inspired it. (KC)

A.A. Williams – ‘Golden’
Another superb single from multi-instrumentalist A.A. Williams here. Taken from her upcoming second album, As The Moon Rests, which is set for release on 7th October via Bella Union, ‘Golden’ is full of her haunting vocals and shadowy sounds. (KC)

Beckie Margaret – ‘Untitled’
I am in love with Essex songwriter Beckie Margaret’s recent EP, CIAGA, Vol. 1. Released via Cool Thing Records, it’s an intuitive, tender collection of songs that genuinely had me in tears when I was writing the review. Beckie’s voice and affecting lyrics dismantle me every time. Please, please do check her out. This track ‘Untitled’ is my favourite. (KC)

Victoria Canal – ‘Swan Song’
The latest release from Victoria Canal, a Munich born, Spanish American who is proud of her identity as a queer, disabled, mixed-heritage woman. ‘Swan Song’ is a haunting and personal piano ballad, taken from her upcoming EP Elegy, which is set for release on 16th September via Parlophone Records. Enjoy. (TW)

Gemma Laurence – ‘Lavender’
The latest single from Brooklyn-based “Sapphic folk” artist Gemma Laurence, ‘Lavender’ is an empowering anthem for the queer community. Flowing with lilting melodies and heartfelt lyrics, it showcases the raw emotion Laurence’s vocals with a stirring, shimmering grace. Lavender, the new album from Gemma Laurence, is out on 4th November via Better Company Records. (ML)

Ailbhe Reddy – ‘Shoulder Blades’
Previous guest on our Soho Radio show Ailbhe Reddy has shared this poignant new single. Her skill for capturing a moment – in this case the unique way the light defines her partner’s body – makes listening to her music such a bittersweet pleasure. (KC)

Seraphina Simone – ‘Milk Teeth’
GIHE fave Seraphina Simone – who for the beady eyed among you, may have seen her singing backing vocals and being part of Self Esteem’s dance troupe over the last year or so. This track is taken from Seraphina’s recently released EP of the same name, and of course we are huge fans. Seraphina will be joining us in the Soho Radio studio for our October show! (TW)

Hypsoline – ‘Space Babe’
I’ve only recently been introduced to Brighton band Hypsoline, but I just can’t get enough of this track’s gritty hooks and swirling, electro-tinged energy – all delivered with an immersive, scuzzy allure. And I cannot wait for Hypsoline to play live for us, supporting Currls at their London EP launch at The Shacklewell Arms on 1st December – get your tickets on DICE now! (ML)

Jadu Heart – ‘Cocoon’
The latest release from electronic duo Jadu Heart otherwise, known as Alex Headford and Diva Jeffrey. It’s been almost two years since they recorded their last record Hyper Romance. This latest single is dreamy stuff. (TW)

Jemima Coulter – ‘Dancing With Lara’
Having recently released their debut solo album, Grace After A Party, Bristol-based artist Jemima Coulter creates beautifully heartfelt folk-strewn offerings. I just love this track’s shimmering musicality and raw, heartfelt vocals; a stirring, emotion-rich dreamscape which reminds me of dancing with my wonderful flower person Lara at my wedding. (ML)

Wallis Bird – ‘I Lose Myself Completely’
Following the acclaim of 2019’s poignant Woman, Irish born/Berlin based artist Wallis Bird has now released her seventh studio album, Hands. Showcasing Bird’s unique, vibrant brand of alt-pop – combining fizzing ’80s-inspired blissful soundscapes with an empowering energy and stirring sentiment – it reflects heartfelt and resonant themes with a raw emotion, delivered through an uplifting, cinematic musicality. (ML)

Mega – ‘If Not My Heart’
Having received acclaim from the likes of BBC Radio 1, NME and The Independent, London-based artist Mega has recently released her new EP Colour Your World. Combining her influence of legends such as Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin and Nina Simone with inspiration from her Ugandan heritage, she creates instantly uplifting anthems oozing an exquisite heartfelt splendour. (ML)

Lande Hekt – ‘Backstreet Snow’
Though you may also know her from her band Muncie Girls, Lande Hekt’s debut solo album, Going To Hell, was one of my favourites of last year. Back with sparkling new single ‘Backstreet Snow’, she showcases her luscious vocals alongside perfectly jangly melodies and a heartfelt lyricism, creating stirring, emotion-strewn indie-folk. Lande Hekt’s second album, House Without A View, is set for release on 23rd September. (ML)

Sophie Jamieson – ‘Sink’
Sophie Jamieson, the new Bella Union signing who is set to release her album Choosing on 2nd December. ‘Sink’ is the lead single from the record, and Sophie is currently on tour across the UK check out her socials for those dates. (TW)

PLAYLIST: June 2022

The Get In Her Ears team have put together another eclectic mix of guitar tunes, alternative gems & electronic sounds for your listening pleasure. Take some time to scroll through our track choices below and make sure you hit play on the Spotify playlist at the end of this post.

Follow GIHE on Spotify to hear all of our previous playlists too.

 

Petrol Girls – ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion’
The entirety of Petrol Girls’ new album Baby offers a totally necessary soundtrack for right now; each and every track a truly poignant reflection driven by a raging sense of urgency. I just wanted to highlight ‘Baby, I had An Abortion’ again, in the wake of the horrific overturning of Roe Vs Wade in the United States. An immense, empowering statement reflecting on vocalist Ren Aldridge’s own experiences of having an abortion in 2018 (having found out she was pregnant the morning that the Eighth Amendment was repealed in Ireland), ‘Baby, I Had An Abortion’ offers a stirring ode to bodily autonomy. A raging cacophony fuelled by a riotous catharsis; urging us to fight against the confines of this damaging patriarchal society and heinous pro-life laws.

At this time, it’s also important to remember that it’s not only in America that people are being denied access to safe abortions: with this release, Petrol Girls raise money for Abortion Without Borders – they’re a network of organisations that fund and support people in Poland to access abortion in neighbouring countries or at home with pills. Abortion laws were further tightened in Poland last year making it only legal in extremely limited circumstances. You can also donate to Abortion Support Network – helping people who need to access safe abortions in Ireland, Northern Ireland and other parts of Europe – here.
(Mari Lane)

Petrol Girls ft. Janey Starling – ‘Fight for Our Lives’
To echo what Mari has said, this track from Petrol Girls’ vital new album Baby, put a lump in my throat the first time I heard it. When Ren Aldridge screams “We’re on the streets again / another bed sheet painted with the blood of a sister” her rage is palpable, her fury undeniable. DIY punk and Kerrang-award-winning activist Janey Starling delivers an equally powerful guest vocal, and together their righteous anger acts as a call to arms to challenge the systems that try to deny women bodily autonomy and justice for the violence they continue to be subjected to. As well as the international organisations Mari has mentioned above, you can follow Level Up to find out more about how you can help achieve gender justice here in the UK.
(Kate Crudgington)

Deux Furieuses – ‘Bring Down The Government’
Having received acclaim from the likes of Radio X’s John Kennedy and currently members of Brix Smith (The Fall)’s band, punk duo Deux Furieuses have now shared a riotous new single. Raging with a fierce power and fervid sense of urgency, ‘Bring Down The Government’ is driven by a seething, blazing energy, building to an immense rallying cry to take a stand against Johnson’s government and the devastating effect it’s had on so many lives. (ML)

Agender – ‘Womb 2 Wound’
LA-based four piece Agender make “schizo, synthy, paranoid, post-punk with a dash of dysmorphic desire” and I am INTO IT. This track is taken from their recent album, No Nostalgia, and I’ve had the lyric “Fuck my biological clock / with my philosophical cock” ricocheting around my skull since I first heard it. The band are also due to release a remix EP in collaboration with JD Samson and Harvey Sutherland later this year! (KC)

Big Joanie – ‘Happier Still’
Big Joanie are BACK and we are THRILLED that they’ve shared this joyful new anthem. Released via Daydream Library Series/Kill Rock Stars, it’s a real rush of guitar-driven energy, inspired by the breakthrough that comes after a period of depression. Big Joanie have just played Glastonbury and performed as part of Grace Jones’ Meltdown festival at Southbank Centre, and we can’t wait to see what they do next. (KC)

Don Chi ft. Rosco Sauce – ‘Angry’
Mari & I had the pleasure of travelling over to Belfast to DJ at the Women’s Work Showcase in May (read our review here) and we were overwhelmed by the amount of music talent on the line-up (Problem Patterns, SPRINTS, Clara Tracey, Fraulein) and rapper Don Chi really impressed us with her effortless flow and hazy beats, which this track ‘Angry’ is full of. (KC)

Ghum – ‘Bitter’
Having been firm favourites here at GIHE for a number of years, London band GHUM have now released their much-awaited debut album, Bitter. Oozing a gritty, swirling energy as front person Laura’s vocals soar throughout, each track carries the band’s trademark ethereal allure and dark, hypnotic splendour, showcasing their ability to consistently hone their sound and bewitch listeners worldwide. Read our recent interview with Ghum here. (ML)

Brutus – ‘Dust’
Belgian trio Brutus are back with this new single ‘Dust’, born from the frustration caused by a demanding and unbalanced friendship. Stefanie Mannaerts’ defiant vocal leads the way, complimenting her powerhouse percussion and the charged, thundering riffs of guitarist Stijn Vanhoegaerden and bassist Peter Mulders’. The band have just announced a string of UK tour dates this November, including The Garage in London on the 22nd. Grab a ticket here. (KC)

Nova Twins – ‘Choose Your Fighter’
We’ve been big fans of Nova Twins here are GIHE for a few years and we’re thrilled to see them taking over the world with their uniquely heavy sound. This track is taken from their second album, Supernova, and it’s a blisteringly loud mix of Georgia’s deliciously distorted basslines and Amy’s visceral vocals. I had the privilege of writing the script for their Kerrang TV show ‘Nova Twins Presents The Anthems’ – a proper dream come true for someone who loves new music and who watched the channel as a teenager! (KC)

ARXX – ‘Couldn’t Help Myself’
The latest single from total faves ARXX offers a swirling slice of honey-sweet pop. A positive reflection on the freedom that can come from a break-up, it builds with a fizzing energy and the sassy allure of Hanni’s vocals to a colossal pure-pop banger, oozing a danceable, empowering drive. We cannot wait for ARXX to headline The Shacklewell Arms for us on 22nd July, with support from Fraulein and Lusa Morena. Tickets selling fast, so grab one here! (ML)

Ailbhe Reddy – ‘A Mess’
A lighthearted reflection on an early, chaotic relationship, ‘A Mess’ is the latest single from Irish-born, London-based alt-folk artist Ailbhe Reddy. Full of energetic guitar riffs, relatable lyrics and Reddy’s clear vocals, the track is a buoyant rumination on the cyclical nature of bad habits, the lasting effect of a seemingly throwaway comment and a lively effort to move past it. (KC)

ADDIE – ‘Crush Me’
This is a great tune from 19 year old singer-songwriter-producer-bassist Adeline Vamenta aka ADDIE. She’s just released her debut album, Crater Lake, which this single ‘Crush Me’ is taken from. Every instrument on the record was played by a woman or non-binary musician, which is probably why it sounds so good… (KC)

Planningtorock – ‘Gay Dreams They Do Come True’
June is Pride month, and as our friend & co-founder Tash Walker reminds us each year, it’s a time to celebrate our LGBTQIA+ siblings, commemorate important milestones and to call out the systems and the people in power who are trying to restrict the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community. Tash inspires us everyday, but their work on The Log Books Podcast and as a Co-Chair for Switchboard truly marks them out as an incredible force for change in both the LGBTQIA+ and wider spheres. I know Tash is a big fan of Planningtorock, so I thought I’d sneak this banger on to our playlist to celebrate all that they do. Big love to Tash and to all of our LGBTQIA+ followers this Pride month & all year round. x (KC)

GLITTERMXXTH – ‘HIM’
Inspired by everything from Grimes and Pussy Riot to matcha tea and hairless cats, ‘HIM’ is the latest single from producer & multi-instrumentalist GLITTERMXXTH. Their cyber-punk sounds are inspired by “the dirty, different and delicious alternative.” (KC)

Tiiva ft. Hellikisto – ‘IDORU’ (Grimes Cover)
I love this dreamy cover of Grimes’ 2020 single ‘IDORU’ by wonderfully talented producer and artist Tiiva. It’s a perfect tune for the (hopefully) warm summer evenings ahead. (KC)

all cats are beautiful – ‘Heartbeats’
With their rendition of The Knife’s ‘Heartbeats‘, all cats are beautiful (acab) offer a truly enchanting dreamscape. Flowing with delicate, twinkling hooks alongside the duo’s luscious harmonies, it’s a stripped back, yet instantly immersive, version of the original, adding the duo’s own unique resplendent grace and spellbinding allure. (ML)

Nikki & The Waves – ‘E.L.C.’
Manchester band Nikki & The Waves are fast becoming new faves, and have just released their new EP, Songs To Play Tennis To. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘E.L.C.’ (exceptionally lovely corduroy) offers a celebration of every indie kid’s favourite fabric. Propelled by the band’s trademark vibrant funk-fuelled groove and fizzing, blissful allure, it’s a perfectly danceable summer anthem. We can’t wait for Nikki & The Waves to headline for us at The Victoria on 12th August (with support from BAXTR and Panic Pocket) – get your tickets here. (ML)

Gemma Cullingford – ‘Tongue Tied’
With a new album set for release in September, Gemma Cullingford (of Sink Ya Teeth) has recently shared title track ‘Tongue Tied’. A reflection on feeling shy and being lost for words, it offers a danceable vibrant soundscape. Building with a frenzied drive, it interweaves zesty electronic hooks with Gemma’s distinctive sensuous vocals. We can’t wait for Gemma Cullingford to headline for us at The Shacklewell Arms on 10th September – a joint headline show with Alice Hubble, support will come from Yay Maria! Tickets here. (ML)

Helen Ganya – ‘Beautiful Country’
Taken from her recent EP, Heart Mirage, this poignant single from Helen Ganya (previously known as Dog In The Snow) is described as “a little tongue-in-cheek heartbreak on the illusion of meritocracy.” Underscored by Ganya’s reflections on the anti-Asian hate that resurfaced during the pandemic, the track is a an upbeat musing on what it means to be judged by the society you live in. (KC)

Katie Malco – ‘Animal’ (Alternate Version)
I was a bit late to the “Katie Malco is great party” but I remember thinking “this is a bit of me” the first time I heard her song ‘Animal’. She’s recently released this alternative version, and it’s just as good as the original. Check out her album Failures (2020) if you like the sound of this. (KC)

Rat Tally – ‘Spinning Wheel’
I love the soft anger that permeates Chicago-based Addy Harris aka Rat Tally’s latest single ‘Spinning Wheel’. Taken from her upcoming album In My Car, which is set for release on 12th August, the track is a hazy blend of atmospheric riffs, bittersweet vocals and introspective lyrics. (KC)

SASAMI ft. J Mascis – ‘Tried To Understand’
I have been obsessed with LA-based SASAMI’s album SQUEEZE since it was released earlier this year. It’s a mad, thrilling mix of metal, folk and grunge; something which is encapsulated on this superb remix of ‘Tried To Understand’, featuring J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. (KC)

Bonnie Trash – ‘Teeth’
Bonnie Trash is the new “drone-rock” project of Canadian-Italian twin sisters Emmalia and Sarafina Bortolon-Vettor. Their latest single ‘Teeth’ is a delicious blend of distorted guitars and beguiling vocals, lamenting an ambiguous toxic love story. The band are due to release their debut album later this year via Hand Drawn Dracula. (KC)

A.A. Williams – ‘Evaporate’
A heavy, graceful musing on the darker side of the emotional spectrum, I love this track from London-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist A.A. Williams. Taken from her upcoming second album, As The Moon Rests, which is set for release on 7th October via Bella Union, ‘Evaporate’ is a brooding blend of dramatic volume fluctuations and Williams’ effortless vocals, which mirror the raw sensitivity of her introspective lyrics. (KC)

Junk Whale – ‘Pilebox’
Oxford band Junk Whale have now announced the release of their new EP, Caught In The Act Of Looking Weird, next month. Taken from the EP, latest single ‘Pilebox’ pays homage to being yourself in the face of adversity. Propelled by a fuzzy, emo-tinged energy, raw impassioned vocals flow throughout as the track builds with a jangly allure to an anthemic blast of angst-driven splendour. Watch the new video for ‘Pilebox’ here. (ML)

Slagheap – ‘Destination Boyfriend’
Having just treated us to their wonderfully quirky charisma live, headlining our night at The Victoria last Friday, Bristol’s Slagheap have recently shared new single ‘Destination Boyfriend’. A joyously discordant yet euphoric celebration of femininity and feeling comfortable in your own skin, regardless of how far from the ‘norm’ you may stray, it reflects on the different paths that bisexuality may take you on, racing with a scrappy, jangly energy as clashing beats sizzle alongside swirling, scuzzy hooks. Appetites, the upcoming new EP from Slagheap, is set for release on 5th August. (ML)

YINYANG – ‘Happy Money’
The latest single from Irish artist Lauren Hannan, aka YINYANG, ‘Happy Money’ offers a poignant reflection on the struggles of depression and the frustration felt that happiness can often be dependent on expensive over-the-counter medication. Propelled by glitchy hooks and Hannan’s soaring rich vocals, it oozes a fierce impassioned drive and deep blistering beats with shades of GIHE fave Noga Erez. (ML)

J. Zunz – ‘Cruce’
Despite my overall positive, sunny disposition – I am a gloomy girl at heart – and that’s why I enjoy listening to the dark electronic sounds of Mexican artist J. Zunz so much. This track is taken from her recent album Del Aire. She’ll be playing alongside some amazing artists (Divide & Dissolve, No Home, A.A. Williams, Grove, Rachel Aggs, NYX Drone Choir) at this year’s Supersonic Festival. Full details here.

INTERVIEW: First Timers Fest

First Timers are a London-based DIY community of musicians and activists who believe that having access to creating & playing music should not be a privilege, it should be a joyful and social experience that empowers everyone. They encourage people from all walks of life – particularly those who identify as non-binary, LGBTQ+, disabled or female – to attend their workshops and gigs in order to experience and create music in a non-judgemental, low pressure environment. They aim to build people’s confidence, as well as forming a community of like-minded individuals who feel empowered to tackle the lack of diversity in larger music industry spheres.

Their next event, First Timers Fest, is happening this Sunday (8th May) at the Amersham Arms in New Cross. 14 newly formed bands will take to the stage for the first time to perform in front of a crowd, and we’ll be there cheering them on and witnessing this brand new talent!You can grab a ticket for the First Timers 2022 Showcase here: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/first-timers-fest-2022-tickets-309402048857

We spoke to Deena, Ishani, Sian and Ripley from the First Timers team about how the initiative began, what they’ve learned from being part of the team and what we can expect from this year’s showcase…

 

Hello folks! Please introduce yourselves and explain how you joined the First Timers team & what it is that you do…

At the moment the core First Timers organising team is Deena, Ishani, Sian and Ripley. None of us founded the fest – that was Bryony who now runs the Good Night Out campaign – and all of us got involved through playing it! Making the fest happen is a fairly big endeavor, and involves booking teachers and workshops, publicizing, finances, liaising with teachers and bands, and a million other little things that crop up.

It’s a lot of work, but it seems to be paying off. You’re a fantastic grass roots organisation and you do so much for the DIY music scene.

First Timers Fest itself was a big thing for us and got most of us into playing music! Also, its easier to be what you see, so seeing other London initiatives like Girls Rock London and Decolonize Fest flourishing is super inspiring.

They’re both great organisations too. What would you say are the highlights of being involved with organising First Timers Fest?

Jam on your hands is one of our favorite bits, even though its probably the most difficult thing to bring together and is always chaotic. It’s a workshop where people get to try out a bunch of instruments then learn a song then we play it all at the same time – so you have three drum kits and five basses and guitars and a tonne of people singing – it’s fantastic! Seeing people having fun at workshops and then telling us they never thought they’d be able to play an instrument and now love it is also amazing.

I attended your Bass Workshop with Jodi this year and I felt the same, it was such a fun day. Tell me about the other teachers and volunteers who are involved with the workshops. I know that Joni from Fraulein ran your guitar workshop and Chuck SJ taught songwriting this year. How do you connect with teachers and get them involved?

Our workshops this year have been really very good and luckily it’s been easy to find great people to run them. Sometimes we put call outs for teachers on our social media, sometimes we source them from the pool of people we’ve got to know over the years, or musicians we rate, or even people who have played the fest before! We love it when our teachers are First Timers at teaching too!

What are your anticipations for the First Timers 2022 showcase on Sunday 8th May? Tell us all about the bands on the bill…

It’s going to be fairly eclectic- it always is! Floralis is bringing us art pop influenced by goth rock and hip hop. Achers will be playing hardcore. A N T I A are putting harmonicas into grungy punk. Melhole are combining synths and ukelele, and there will be THREE kinds of hand percussion in ROAD. Many of the the main food groups really.

Because of Covid, for most of us this will be the first Fest we’ve organised from start to finish so we are just really excited to see them all up there!

I’m excited too! If someone was considering coming to a First Timers event, but felt a bit too nervous to get involved, what advice would you give to them?

We are all really very nice and we also all understand how scary it can be to take those first steps! Advice? Bring a friend, or reach out to us before you come.

And if a musician reading this is interested in volunteering for the next set of First Timers Fest workshops, what should they do?

Keep an eye out on social media as that’s where we tend to put out calls for artists, teachers, photographers, and other volunteers. Aside from Jam on your Hands, the workshops are paid for teachers, but the rest of us are volunteers. We are always needing more hands on deck with organising so do get in touch if you’re interested in getting involved – it’s good fun and very rewarding!

Finally, any bands or artists that you’ve been listening to recently that you’d like to recommend?

Here’s a link to every First Timers Fest band ever! 

Lots of them are still going. Breakup Haircut are playing their album release gig on the 22nd of July, Big Joanie are touring soon, Charmpit released an amazing album over lockdown, Bitch Hunt, Whitelands, Panic Pocket, Irn Brunette and Trouble Wanted have been playing live recently. If we’ve missed anyone out please do add your current stuff to the spreadsheet!

But we are equally as in awe of every band that played the fest the one time then dissolved or morphed or started other projects. We’re proud of them all!

Thanks to the First Timers team for answering our questions!

Follow First Timers Fest on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram

Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut