Towards the end of last year I had a great blast interviewing the fabulously talented Delilah Bon the (not so) secret identity of Lauren Tate. Music fans will also know her as singer with Hands Off Gretel. Delilah will have a first album out in 2021. What I learned from interviewing Delilah/ Lauren is that she is not only a talented artist but also a passionate, funny and caring human being. Click here to take a listen to the interview on Spotify (apologies for a few seconds of silence at the start) and afterwards check out some of Delilah Bon’s ace singles in the videos below. Including a fabulous rap based version of John Lennon’s “Imagine”. Then click here to avail yourself of some rather spiffing Delilah Bon merch!
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You may have listened to my recent interview with Carol Hodge, if not then click here to give it a spin. Carol has written a truly beautiful song which for me goes some way to really capturing how many of us are feeling in these strange and often dark days of Covid-19, it is called “A Song For You”, take a look at the rather excellent video. The video is either enhanced or marred by an appearance from me, personally, I think enhanced but I will leave you to be the judge of that. I am on fleetingly at around the 59-second mark. But it is a clever video for a stunning emotional song. You can also buy Carol’s brilliant new album “Savage Purge”, just click here, you know you want to! As a bonus, just to tempt you, I have included the video for “Stop Worrying Baby” from that very album! That one was shot and completed just before lock down. If you have not listened to Carol before, then you really should, it is simply pure classy music!
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I finally got around to posting and interview that I did with the obscenely talented Carol Hodge last month. She talks about her latest album ‘Savage Purge’, her new tune ‘A Song For You’, musical influences, and her favourite confectionery items. Click the link below take a listen and feel free to comment.
Recently I had the honour and pleasure of being interviewed by Graeme Smith of the York Calling blog and podcast. It is out now as episode 1 of series 2. Give it a listen, give it a like and let me Graeme and me know what you think.
Here is the third With Just A Hint Of Mayhem Podcast. This time it is an interview with a very talented new band from Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA They are called Von Kaiser. Find out what they have to say about their local music scene, their influences and how they got their name. I hope you enjoy it. I would love to hear your comments!
Here is the second ever With Just A Hint Of Mayhem Podcast. This time it is an interview with one of York’s finest young bands, The Receivers. I hope you enjoy it. I would love to hear your comments!
Recently I had the absolute pleasure of catching up with up and coming US country singer Reatha Pitman. After 14 years in the US Navy Reatha is now putting everything into becoming a success as a singer. Click here to check out her website, buy some of the merch and you will be contributing directly towards her first album. Reatha answered a range of questions for With Just A Hint Of Mayhem, take a read and feel free to add a comment.
Who is your biggest musical influence and why?
There was absolutely no hesitation in this answer, it is the Judds. She has loved them since she was a little girl and has been lucky enough to see them live twice. Reatha said that one thing that she really admires about the Judds is their passion and how they have an air of being larger than life. Reatha also loves Reba McIntire and Shania Twain.
What is next for you, where do you go from here?
Reatha is currently working on a bunch of new songs for an album, her first, which if all goes well should be out later this year. She plans to start recording it in Nashville in April.
Musically do you have any of what you might consider guilty pleasures, if so what are they?
Well Ms. Pitman confessed to having no musical guilty pleasures and then having thought about said maybe Will Smith. <With Just A Hint Of mayhem wants your opinion, is Will Smith a guilty pleasure? Answers in the comments please>
What is your favourite song of all time?
Again, no hesitation from Reatha in this answer, it has to be “Love Can Build A Bridge” by the Judds. It brings so many great things together; the words, the tone and the melody. Reatha also added “Crazy” written by the great Willie Nelson and performed most memorably and famously by Patsy Cline.
How do you prepare for a gig?
No real routine, perhaps trying to learn the lyrics of songs that she plans to cover thoroughly. Reatha also drinks coffee pre-gig as she believes that it helps her vocal tone.
Name one thing in your musical career that you are most proud of and feel free to tell us why?
In September 2018 Reatha sang both days (Friday and Saturday) at the Mississippi Songwriters Festival. This particular festival features and showcases many renowned Nashville songwriters.
What drives you to write songs?
Reatha’s song writing drive comes from emotion and human experience. Maybe a thought stemming from a line or scene from a movie. She also takes inspiration from other peoples lives and their experiences. One of her newer songs is about her Dad.
Name a song that you believe you could cover and make it better than the original?
With this one I think Reatha made a very bold choice in “Crazy” the Patsy Cline classic.
Which of your songs would you like to see covered by someone else and who would be your top choice to do it?
“Hittin’ The Road” (which can be found on her new EP, click here to find it on Spotify). She would like maybe Kasey Musgraves or Kelsea Ballerini to give it a shot.
Name three things that you simply cannot live without?
Chips <that’ll be crisps to those of us on this side of the big pond>
Movies/ Cinema/ TV – especially romantic dramas with a happy ending. Particularly Hallmark films.
What is your favourite confectionary item?
Sour Patch Kids Gum candy.
Who is the richest Bruce Wayne (a.k.a. Batman) or Tony Stark (a.k.a. Iron Man)?
Tony Stark because he designs and sells high end electronics and computer equipment.
Jim sets the controls for the heart of the Safe Suburban Home!
Last week I had the delightful pleasure of catching up with Jim Quinn owner of a new record label in York, UK. The label is Safe Suburban Home and their début launch came a few weeks ago with the release of a limited edition seven-inch vinyl single by the Velts from Malta. I am looking forward to future releases and now that I own the first I may have to become a collector! Jim answered a range of questions for With Just A Hint Of Mayhem, take a read and feel free to add a comment. Jim has also chosen some rather excellent tracks for the videos at the bottom of this post!
Safe Suburban Home? Where does the name come from?
This is a strange one according to Jim. He, his partner Emma and their daughter needed a safe suburban home, so they got one. Their living room became a studio which they named Safe Suburban Home! <and there was me looking for deeper meaning!>
What is your favourite record label(s) and why?
California’s Burger Records which according to Jim has an underground feel and always seemed pretty cool. His aim is to create that kind of vibe with Safe Suburban Home. Back in the early 2000’s he would also buy anything released by Household Name Records.
Do you foresee having a roster of acts on the label ultimately or will you carry on with exclusive releases?
This is way too far ahead. Jim would love to work with more local bands and might consider going down the singles club release route. He would absolutely love to record York band Tax <Guys if you’re reading this just do it!> Acts that sign up for an exclusive release on Safe Suburban Home Records sign a 4 month contract, after that they can put their track on other platforms and media.
Will you expand beyond vinyl?
Jim says that is possible but it would have to maintain some kind of physical tangible purchase too. Say buy a T Shirt, pin badge or something and receive a free digital download of a song.
Who is your biggest musical influence and why?
There was no hesitation or thought time for Jim’s answer here, immediately he responded with Damon Albarn. He says, and I agree, that everything Damon has done is different and that he is undoubtedly one of the great British songwriters.
Musically do you have any of what you might consider guilty pleasures, if so what are they?
Like all of us Jim has some guilty pleasures when it comes to music. Notably 80s Pop, Deacon Blue and Prefab Sprout. His guilty pleasures anthem is “Walking On Sunshine” by Katrina and the Waves. <personally I don’t think Prefab Sprout are in this category, but then one persons classic band is another persons guilty pleasure, right?>
Name three things that you simply cannot live without (not including family)?
Good coffee – definitely not the instant rubbish
His music collection
His push bikes, he has five!
What is your favourite confectionery item? Is Die Hard a Christmas film? Who is richer, Tony Stark or Bruce Wayne?
Jim took a shot at all of these;
His favourite confectionery item is a Boost Bar
Die Hard is not a Christmas film
As for whether Tony Stark or Bruce Wayne is the richest, like many people, Jim has no idea!
Laura checks out an excellent, if somewhat expensive, Toots & the Maytals LP at the Vinyl Cafe.
I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing York singer, songwriter and ace musician Laura Kindelan earlier this week in 45 The Vinyl Cafe on Micklegate. Laura was eloquent, effervescent and spoke about her major influences, where she might take her sound next, her musical guilty pleasures and her favourite chocolate among many other things. Check out that conversation below.
Who is your biggest musical influence and why?
Well there isn’t just one person, for me it’s the sound and the performance. For the sound, it has to be Lianne La Havas; I love her jazz guitar, melodic vocals and song writing. I particularly love her lyrical patterns and use of unusual words. My history teacher introduced me to her.
As for performance, I would have to name two people; Amy Winehouse and Damien Rice. I believe that both of them show the beauty of imperfections. Damien Rice’s mix of his first album “O” massively fluctuates in volume within songs, which could be considered wrong but I believe it’s emotive.
What is next for you, where do you go from here?
I am very happy to be a slow burner. I am not focussed at all on becoming a product or a brand. I want to be a well-respected musician, singer and song writer. That has to include maintaining respect for myself and my craft. I want my music to speak for me, not the image. I would also love to work with a really tight rhythm section in the future.
Musically do you have any of what you might consider guilty pleasures, if so what are they?
That is a tough one, the first one that I can think of is Abba. However, I don’t feel too guilty about it as they wrote, produced and released such great songs. But perhaps my real guilty pleasure is my ‘go to’ party song; “Bitch Better Have My Money” by Rihanna.
Photo by Michael Parr
How do you prepare for a gig?
First, I always do some vocal warm ups. I like to make myself feel nice, to feel good. I don’t often wear much make-up, but for a show, I choose to get dressed up with make-up and nice clothes. Everything I do to prepare for a gig contributes to making me feel comfortable and confident on stage. I really believe that a performer should invest the audience in what they do by personally connecting with them, and to do that, you need to be happy and comfortable with yourself. Confidence is key to any good performance.
Name one thing in your musical career that you are most proud of and feel free to tell us why?
My headline show last year at the National Centre for Early Music in York. It felt like such a magical night and I am so proud that I did it. I can’t quite believe that it happened. There were around 180 people there, really listening and enjoying the night – It’s definitely something I’ll never forget.
Click here to check out my review of that show on this blog last year
What drives you to write songs?
Sometimes it is all about getting something off my mind; a feeling or a relationship perhaps. Currently I really love to experiment with harmonies, shapes and different tunings on my guitar. I think I draw influence in this experimentation from Jeff Buckley and Tom Misch, particularly with pretty harmony and rhythm from the latter. I see my sound as evolving into something similar to Tom Misch, only much grottier!
Photograph by Tomorrow’s Photos
How does your song writing process work?
I have lots of lyrics stored on my phone that I’ve written as they come to me and I sometimes go there for inspiration. Although, as I said before, I love to experiment with harmony and chord progressions so I often begin here.
Name a song that you believe you could cover and make it better than the original?
At the moment I am playing around with a very different arrangement of “Do I Wanna Know” by the Arctic Monkeys. I am trying out a very slowed down version which is more ‘head bobby’, with more dissonance and harmonics. I think this new vibe adds more meaning to the lyrics.
Which of your songs would you like to see covered by someone else and who would be your top choice to do it?
I would like it to be someone completely different from me, how about Hello Operator? That could actually be amazing, we should make it happen!
Photo by Tim Downie
Tell me something that you have never told an interviewer before (and this does not need to be music related)?
My signature dish, that I make incredibly well (if I do say so myself), is Carbonara with mushrooms, bacon and cream. Bon appétit.
Name three things that you simply cannot live without?
My family, good food and Doctor Martens. I’m hoping to build a collection of Docs – I currently have four pairs, including one with a snake-skin pattern.
All photographs were provided to me by Laura and are credited to the photographer in the caption. The first picture was a rare good one taken on my phone. Video links were specially selected by Laura herself.
I recently had the pleasure of interviewing (or throwing questions at) Pete, John, Adam and Rusty of one of York’s finest rock bands Lost Trends. Pete and Rusty over a few pints at the Duke of York pub and John and Adam outside Fibbers after the boys played a storming set in support of Billy Bibby and the Wry Smiles. Click here for that review. If you have never heard Lost Trends or seen them play live yet then you really need to rectify that soon. But in the meantime find out a bit more about the band with questions about their musical influences, favourite chocolate bar, rejected band names and which of them reckon they could take Justin Bieber in a fight.
Rusty – A previous band had an Arctic Monkey’s style song called “Lost To The Trend”
Rusty & Pete – Mentioned that they had considered Swedish Jesus and the Dyslexics. But the latter would be spelt wrong!
What brought you together as a band?
Rusty & Pete – They were at York College and become mates after a friend of a friend introduced them. John’s brother was the original drummer and they found Adam via GumTree
Adam – Was looking for a band on Gum Tree (so it worked then!)
John – He took his brother’s place in the band
Are there any Lost Trends side projects?
A resounding NO from both Pete and Rusty
John – A cryptic who knows!
Adam – Maybe some acoustic stuff one day
Is there a particular song or musical passage that never fails to move you emotionally?
Rusty – Radiohead’s “Let Down” but perhaps the greatest impact is from Lindisfarne’s 70s classic “Lady Eleanor”
Pete – Thought about this for a while before deciding on a song that always makes him happy and upbeat, another 70s classic “September” from Earth, Wind & Fire. At a recent wedding they made sure the DJ played it.
Adam – Chose “Stay The Same” by a band that you may know, they are called Lost Trends. He is very proud of his bass on that track. He is also really keen on some good bass sounds in a Motown, Soul environment.
John – His choice would depend on his level of intoxication
What would be your first big purchase when music makes you rich and famous?
Rusty – A recording studio
Pete – A Ferrari
John – Loads of kick pedals – he has a habit of losing them
Adam – A barrel of coconut rum
Who were you, or would you be nervous to meet?
Pete – Kurt Cobain
Rusty – Was lucky enough to walk past David Bowie at Glastonbury in 2000, he didn’t know what to do (Rusty not Bowie that is) so he nodded hello and got a nod in return
Adam – Don Broco, he would love to tour with them
John – Jimi Hendrix
Which instruments do you play?
Pete – Guitar, piano and backing vocals
Rusty – Guitar, piano, drums and vocals obviously!
Adam – Power chords on a guitar
John – Didgeridoo
When and why did you start playing?
Pete – Grandad was in a York band called the Modernaires. They were once played on Radio 2 after being introduced by no less than Patrick Moore. It was his Grandad who bought Pete his first guitar.
Rusty – His Dad was obsessed with music and he had a Beatles book with chords for every one of their songs. Rusty learnt to play by borrowing his Dad’s guitar and the book.
John – Started playing at school
Adam – Started playing bass at High School as there were no other bass players there
John – Can’t remember but probably something simple
What are the best and worst things about the music industry today?
Both Pete and Rusty agreed that they really don’t like pay to play.
Pete – He said that nowadays reality TV has made the industry very hard to get into. There is more of a need to win a competition or to have a back story, particularly one that would tug the audience’s heart strings
Rusty doesn’t like the favouritism that many promoters and industry people show. Also the apparent lack of daring, no one wants to take a chance any more.
Adam – Worst thing is dodgy promoters who insist that you sell 30 tickets or more
John – A good thing is that there are often more opportunities at the moment
(Incidentally one thing that at least two of the band mentioned is that Simon Pattison of York is an excellent promoter!)
What tunes are you currently grooving to?
Rusty – Anderson Paak and the Free Laterals – “Come Down”. He also loves the new Jamiroquai album ‘’Automaton’, and is a big fan of the creative genius of Jay Kay.
Pete – A big fan of the new Bonobo album
John – Chase and Status
Adam – Sofi Tukker – “Drinkee”
Best Saturday night record?
Rusty – King Curtis – “Memphis Soul Stew” or “Milk and Black Spiders” – Foals
Pete – “Move On Up” – Curtis Mayfield
John – “Upside Down” – Diana Ross
Adam – “This Girl” by the Kungs
Best Sunday morning record?
Rusty – “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers. This was a particular favourite with an old housemate and would often get them properly woken up on a Sunday. Rusty is also partial to a little Ralph McTell on a Sunday morning.
Rusty – What is the difference between a large blue whale and a small white whale? Size and colour. J
Adam – An English man, an Irish man and a Scots man walk into a bar. The barman says is this some kind of joke?
John – (You need to read this one out loud) An English cat called One two Three and a French cat called Une Deux Trois decide to have a swimming race across the English Channel. One Two Three won because Une Deux Trois Quatre Cinq …. Cat sank……geddit?
With Just A Hint Of Mayhem 