INTERVIEW WITH COLD SPECKS
How does the UK differ to Canada for musicians?
It’s a smaller country with a larger population. I think that creates more opportunities. The music scene here is also very busy in comparison. Although, cities like Toronto and Montreal have great music scenes that have produced bands like the Arcade Fire. But, I feel like success stories in Canada are a rarity. It’s a wonderful country with some of the best people I know. It’s just that the music industry isn’t as developed. I, personally, had to leave Canada because I wasn’t getting anywhere with my music.
You’ve been on Jools Holland, how important was that for your career and what was it like?
We did Jools before we were signed to a record label. We also didn’t have any fixed album plans. There’s been a lot of interest in Cold Specks because of the performances. I had a great time. The staff were all amazing. It was incredibly nerve-racking. They stuck me in the centre with Brett Anderson from Suede right in front of me, Florence Welch to the right, My Morning Jacket to the left, Mary J. Blige and Pete Townsend behind me. I was freaking terrified. I had to sing without any music. Just a lone voice in the centre with all of these famous people surrounding me. I never want to do that again.
You’re music has a bluesy vibe to it, how did that come about?
A lot of people have said that based on the Jools performances. I guess I have a husky voice and weird acoustic tunings. Really, the upcoming album isn’t really bluesy at all. There’s a song called “Hector” that sounds like Grace Jones meets Radiohead with a bit of Portishead thrown in. Lately I’ve been telling people it sounds like an exorcism performed by an arsonist.
Do you think you need to be troubled to write blues music?
Honestly, I don’t have a clue! I suppose the saddest songs come from the saddest people. I’d like to think my music is just wonderfully terrifying.
What other musicians inspire you?
Bill Callahan, Swans, Will Oldham… the list goes on and on.
Lately you’ve been working with Bristol’s very own Rob Ellis, tell us about that…
Rob’s great. He did all the drumming on the record. He also worked really closely with Jim Anderson (the producer) and I on arrangements. I couldn’t be happier with the final product and am incredibly excited for people to hear it all.
Will he be at your Bristol gig?
I’m not sure. I haven’t asked!
What can people expect from that gig?
Horns! Drums! Cellos! Piano! Shimmery guitars! Hootin’ and hollerin’! Hopefully, a good time.
Cold Specks plays The Louisiana in Bristol on February 29. Tickets £7adv from www.seetickets.com
