Charlie Freeman Releases “Lost Town”
Charlie Freeman returns with his first new single of the year, the stunning “Lost Town.” It embodies much of what makes Charlie such a singular artist – the gorgeous vocal, incredible production and a huge dollop of soul.
In Charlie’s words - ‘“Lost Town” is a song about journeying through those long nights of the soul. Digging out the darkness and out the other side to freedom - ‘come on everybody, let us rise again.’
The west London-based singer-songwriter has been travelling over the last few months and drawing inspiration from the places he sees and the people he meets. As he’s been to different parts of the world he has channelled some universal themes that resonate with all – positivity, hope, love – an distils these into this perfect rock n roll songs. The result will be a new album, “Freedom”. Set for release next year, it’s classic rock roll with a modern, universal take that will see Charlie build on the work of his previous records “Love” and “Truth”.
Charlie Freeman is a unique proposition, a charismatic, louche rock n roll star living in Notting Hill. He has performed on TV multiple times and throws open his home on Portobello Road to the creative community around him. His home has hosted acoustic shows and photography talks, music healings and serves as a base for his Freeman Foundation, where he is able to offer support to those new musicians and artists from less fortunate backgrounds. He has recently set up a state-of-the-art home studio, and has many exciting new projects and artists using the studio.
ettie On the Making Of “Marty McFly”
What was the creative process like for this particular "Marty McFly?"
The inspiration for this song happened when I was sitting in the sun in the park I grew up by (my creative process is near-exclusively in public, it’s very annoying). I was just reminiscing on my adolescence and how so many different versions of me had walked through this park, and how most of those versions weren’t living authentically. I went home kind of sad about not being able to get my formative years back since I spent so long denying my sexuality, and I thought of how cool it would be if I had a time machine and could go back in time and tell myself that it’s alright. And we haven’t mastered time travel in this world yet, but they did in ‘Back to the Future’…
Can you talk about the recording and production process for "Marty McFly?"
I connected with Alex from Spit Recordings about making some new music, and I played him the selection of songs I had been working on and he absolutely loved “Marty McFly.” I went into his studio and the song came to us super fast. We have the same punk-rock influences, so we just spent time having fun getting some cool riffs in and then adding some fun synth effects. Working with him is a whole vibe!
What do you like the best about "Marty McFly?"
When I wrote it it felt special. I know that sounds kind of lame but sometimes I write something and it makes me feel all warm and fuzzy. Creating this song really felt like home.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in music?
I’ve always been writing stories, ever since I was really young and had nothing to write about so I would just make things up. As I got a bit older and started getting into pop-punk music I realised that my love for writing stories could also be put into song.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a musician, and how did you overcome them?
The music industry is changing so frequently at such a velocity that it is so easy to feel stuck sometimes. It’s taken me a while to realise that success isn’t stream or follower counts, it’s the people who listen to your music every day and can sing the words and come to your gigs and get to know you. It’s so easy to get lost, but I try to hold onto that.
John Tibbits Releases “Everything in the Wrong Place”
London — Singer-songwriter John Tibbits has unveiled his captivating single, "Everything in the Wrong Place." With roots in Birmingham and now thriving in London, Tibbits' musical journey is marked by evolution, innovation, and a profound understanding of the challenges that songwriting can entail. "Everything in the Wrong Place" serves as a poignant exploration of the creative process's trials and tribulations. The song delves into the very frustrations that songwriting can sometimes conjure—be it the formidable writer's block or the ever-present allure to mimic the work of one's musical idols. Tibbits' lyricism offers an authentic window into these internal struggles, resonating with fellow artists and music enthusiasts who have encountered similar obstacles.
At the heart of the single lies Tibbits' transformation as an artist. Departing from his folk origins, the track embraces an alternative/indie rock soundscape that signals his growth and willingness to step outside his comfort zone. The song's intricate composition transitions from a mesmerizing synth and drum loop into a full-band chorus, showcasing Tibbits' ability to seamlessly weave emotions into melody. The single's production was entrusted to the accomplished Mercury-nominated producer, Andy Ross. Ross' keen ear and understanding of musical nuances played a pivotal role in shaping the distinct soundscape of "Everything in the Wrong Place."
Speaking about the song Tibbits commented that: “I love writing music but sometimes it is an extremely frustrating process. This song is about channeling that frustration into something productive. Working with Andy was a fantastic experience and I’m excited about the new direction this song takes my music in.”
Sylvan Weekends Releases ‘Headlong into the Unknown’
What was the creative process like for this particular EP 'Headlong into the Unknown?'
With our first EP, 'Outliers' we were still figuring out a lot of things about our sound and what type of music we wanted to make. With this EP, our second, we had a better idea of what we wanted to achieve with each track - the feelings we wanted to evoke with each one, the nostalgia we were trying to unlock, and how our particular combination of folkiness (from Matthew) and synthy piano (from Freya) comes together.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for this EP?
Matthew and Freya co-wrote and co-produced the songs together - sometimes together in the same room and sometimes sending files back and forth. The title track, “Headlong into the Unknown,” was a really interesting experience - the song started life as a folky gentle song about wild swimming but when Matthew and Freya got together to actually record, it totally transformed. They wrote a new chorus really quickly, changed the vibe of it and it became more energetic and started to represent the excitement of new experiences, and heading towards unknown things... which we feel like we are right now!
What has been one of your favorite memories along the path to making 'Headlong into the Unknown?'
Learning the dance for the Foolhardy (I will never forget this summer) music video was a lot of fun - we were in hysterics the entire time. We had a time pressure before we lost the light as the sun was going down - Matthew's sister Julia had choreographed the dance and was drilling us out in the car park and we kept taking it in turns to mess up - but we got there in the end!
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in music?
All of us are lifelong musicians - we've all been playing since we were tiny and in school bands and orchestras, and with our families, and have been in various bands over the years. Matthew is in the folk band Keston Cobblers Club which he created with his sister Julia, and he and Daniel are also in the folk band Stables. Freya had a solo folk project (which Matthew produced), and has been a member of LCV, singing with artists like Imogen Heap and Basement Jaxx - and also has a solo instrumental piano-synth project. So, we've all done tonnes of different things, but there's something really special about Sylvan Weekends - it feels like it's just working in a great way and like our individual styles compliment each other.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
We've just finished a 16-date tour around Germany and we had the absolute best time. Our favourite thing is when we notice people start to really lock into the songs, start moving a little bit because they feel like they need to dance or start to react emotionally - as it means they're understanding the songs how we intended them. We always challenge ourselves to get as many of the audience bopping along with us as we possibly can - it's such a great feeling when the audience comes up afterward to tell you they've had a great time.
Darcy Winter On the Making Of "Save It"
What was the creative process like for this particular "Save It?"
The creative process/story behind “Save It” came from an experience in New York. I was in a new city, alone, and I started talking to a guy in a bar. He quickly divulged that he was a lawyer and started to tell me how little he thought of my career choice, how I would never make any money or be successful etc. I then rejected his advances and his retaliation was to spike my drink. Not only did it not work, it put me in the hospital, where my blood showed positive for opioids. I then had to spend 24 hours being watched over by staff - a horrendous experience. I came back to the UK pretty shaken, but I (after about 24 hours), sat down at my computer and started to write the song. The lyrics poured out of me -I was so angry but also realised how much I had loved NYC and wouldn’t hesitate to go back. It just sort of put a mirror up to a bigger lesson that when these things happen to you, you just have to turn them into something good. And in the end - I actually felt sorry for him (shown in the bridge).
Can you talk about the recording and production process for "Save It?"
After writing in all the instrumental parts to the song, I brought it to the producer that I had used (Ian Janco, a now good friend), who loved the song, and actually brought on another person, Jason Elvin and they tweaked the song and produced it together (Ian was by then based in the US and Jason in the UK), and they really brought it alive.
What has been one of your favorite memories along the path to making "Save It?"
Honestly, being in New York was just magical. The incident itself was of course traumatic, but actually, two of my closest friends who were in the city came to my rescue and literally saved my life. They called the ambulance, stayed with me the entire time in the hospital, checked into their hotel, and didn’t sleep themselves. It really just made me appreciate them and the people around me. I loved working with Jason and Ian on this one - I think everyone gets quite riled up when they hear the story of the making of it, which means everyone wants the song to do well.
Who are your musical influences, and how have they impacted your songwriting style?
Olivia Dean is a big influence, her depth of lyrics and lush jazz chords are just magical, and her energy on stage is second to none. I also take a lot of influence from Eloise, her ethereal voice and melody lines are something I also use in my music. I love the close mic sounds of Billie Eilish and her use of her experiences in a very raw way to connect with her audience. I love the old Jazz classics too.
Your lyrics often tell stories. Can you talk about your approach to storytelling through music?
I have ADHD - so I see things a little differently than other people, things that happen in the world process differently in my brain. Sometimes I find either it’s hard to describe to people my experiences, or I find it hard to understand them myself. When I write music, it seems that I can make sense of it.
Frankie Bird On the Making Of ‘Grassroots’
How does 'Grassroots' reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
It is really nice to have a cohesive body of workouts rather than just individual singles. I do think of 'Grassroots' as a concept record as the songs all tie in together thematically about my move to London and getting started in the music industry. I think that the range of styles of songs in the EP shows my growth as an artist even in just the past year as they range from catchy pop songs to emotional rockier ballads.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for 'Grassroots?'
Hearing the bass and drums come in on the tracks was really exciting for me as I had been so used to hearing the acoustic versions. I always write with a full band sound in mind as that's what I prefer to a stripped-back sound most of the time. The songs were recorded in a north London studio earlier in the summer and I like to think that's translated into the songs having an upbeat, summer vibe especially 'Background' and 'Hidden Away' as they are more pop-leaning.
What is your favorite song from 'Grassroots' and why?
At the moment, it's probably the first song 'Background' as I'm kind of promoting it as the lead track due to its big anthemic chorus. I'm looking forward to performing it live as I think it will get a good response from audiences.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I've always loved writing and telling stories and to do this through songs seemed to be what appealed to me more than anything else. I love performing live and meeting other musicians at gigs too. I've wanted to be a singer-songwriter since I was fourteen so it's incredible to now actually have music out that people can listen to.
What is your songwriting process like? How do you usually start crafting a new song?
I'm a very traditional songwriter, to be honest. I just sit on my bed with my guitar and a notebook. I don't really write on my laptop or anything like that. I tend to start playing a chord progression, then come up with the melody and then the lyrics. Once I start a song I have to finish it pretty much straight away. I don't really come back to ideas I've left behind. I'm always moving on to the next thing.
Flares the Spirit On the Making Of “Where You At?”
How does "Where You At?" reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
Where You At? is almost like a bookmark in my musical journey. I’ve been writing and making music for a while but since rebranding a few years ago I dropped 2 EPs in 2021 and 2022 that varied greatly in style. Where You At? almost reflects both sounds of those EPs with the instruments and vibe matching the first EP and the energy, carefree style, and wordplay matching the second.
Could you discuss the lyrical themes or messages conveyed in "Where You At?"
Lyrically this kind of works as a recap of what I’ve been up to since the last project. I’ve been working hard since the last release being in the studio, networking, going to shows, etc. whilst also just going through life stuff. Where You At? talks about that but also me just observing things that are happening in music in general. The general message of the song is not being able to see everything that going on and preparing in the shadows.
What has been one of your favorite memories along the path to making this track?
Performing it live for the first time was a good memory for me. I had a show in Hoxton, London and nobody knew the song existed. I announced the song’s release date on stage and everyone was so engaged that by the last chorus, everyone was singing along.
What has been one of the most significant moments of your musical journey so far?
I would definitely say just the people I met along my musical journey. A lot of the people I keep around me I knew outside of music prior to anything else but there is a handful of people I connected on a musical level first that has helped me progress in my art.
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as a musician?
The sky is the limit for this question. Honestly, I just want to make music I enjoy that reflects myself as a person and is sonically good. I want to take whoever wants to hear it on that journey with me and show them the different layers of a person.
Basically, my aspirations and goal are to make good meaningful music that I enjoy, that people can listen to, and understand more about Flares The Spirt as a person. Everything else on this journey is a plus.