Molly Willis On the Making Of “Hypocentre”
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "Hypocentre?"
I wrote a lot of the songs off this project at one of my old jobs, actually. I'd scribble lyrics that popped into my head in the margins and then try to record a voice note of the melody on breaks before I forgot it. I think “Hypocentre” was one of those. My mental health always takes a bit of a hit in September, and the song's very literal - September can indeed do one.
Can you talk about the recording and production process for "Hypocentre?"
This was probably my favourite song to record so far. I got to work with Jack from Mama Oh No. He was studying music production and being taught by Jonny Cole, who I made my first EP with. He thought we'd be a good mix, and Jack was awesome to work with. He took the track in a more psychedelic direction than I was expecting, but I wouldn't have had it any other way. He was also extremely patient. There was a whole hour or so where I just couldn't take of one of the guitar parts that I was happy with. I even asked him to play it for me instead, but he insisted that my messy version fit the song better. Anyone who can embrace messiness and imperfection is probably a good person for me to be working with.
What do you like the best about this track?
I'm really proud of the guitar riff on it. It's super simple, but I don't care, it fits perfectly. This song had been sitting around gathering dust for two years before I wrote that riff, because I knew I wanted it to be a rock song, but I was still pretty new to writing for lead guitar. I actually sang it to myself before I played it, which is why I think it's kind of catchy - it's made to be sung.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I realised there was nothing else I wanted to do more. It took me a while - I've been singing and writing songs since I was a kid, but university was always my goal, and while I was there, I had set my sights on being a journalist. Once I was out of that environment and my future was wide open, I realised I didn't miss journalism at all and didn't have the drive for it - I had just been sucked into the idea of doing something 'important'. What I did miss was music.
Are there any specific venues or festivals that you dream of performing at?
I mean... is there a musician alive who doesn't dream of playing Glastonbury? It feels ridiculous to even say it, but it'll always be the one. Stick me on a box with a karaoke mic, I don't care. I'll even play next to the Portaloos. If I get within spitting distance of Worthy Farm with a guitar strapped around me, I'll feel like I've peaked.
