Hi, Hannah! Glad to have you with us. Could you tell more about yourself to our readers?
Hello! I’m a singer-songwriter from the south of England, I sing and play guitar, and I’ve recently released a new single called ‘The Well’.
Congrats on your new single “The Wel”! You have said in the past that Haruki Murakami’s book “The Wind-Up Bird Chronicle” inspired you to write the song, what about the lyrics and harmony?
Thanks! Yes, a line from the book jumped out at me and inspired the concept of the lyrics, with a well as a metaphor for pouring emotions deep down inside you. I wanted to experiment with telling a story using fewer words than I had in the past. With the melody, I liked the vulnerability of the long, held lines, and the harmony and texture of a second voice – backing vocals are by Phil Brickell who also plays bass on the track.
What got you into music?
My family is music lovers, so I was lucky to grow up with some good influences. My brother taught me my first chords on the guitar, and I went from there. A lot of my friends and were in bands when I was in my teens which were really influential, and I started writing songs when I was 14.
Who are your musical influences and why?
PJ Harvey is a major influence– she’s from the same part of the world as me and is just a brilliant artist. Joni Mitchell also blows me away with her mastery of words and music, the way she captures a feeling. I also love Patti Smith and Laura Marling. Jeff Buckley for his obvious greatness and vulnerability. I love Neil Young’s guitar playing. I could go on.
Your very first album was released in 2013, do you think the audience can hear the way you changed from your latest releases?
I’d say definitely. My first album was honest but very innocent really. I was just beginning and finding my way, but a lot of love went into it and I was fortunate to work with good musicians from the beginning. Over the years, most of my music has been based around the acoustic guitar so it’s been fun playing with an electric sound recently. Listening back to the first album I can really hear the change in my voice too. I’m singing from a more grounded place these days. Every aspect has matured with time, I think.
Are you doing gigs at the moment? If yes, where can we see you in the nearest future?
I am, and it’s so good to be able to play live again. My next show is a full band gig at The Tivoli Theatre in Wimborne, Dorset, on Friday 8th October. I can’t wait!
How would you describe your experience with Scott McKeon, Paul Stacey, Russ Parker, and Phil Brickell in three words?
Inspiring, educational, and funny.
Are you more of a singer or more of a songwriter?
I hadn’t thought about it like that before. I think perhaps I’m more of a songwriter. I’m not trying to be Aretha or anything vocally, though I want to sing well. I’m more concerned about communicating something, and writing is really always at the center of things for me.
How do you usually deal with writer’s block?
By just writing anyway. Even if it starts off being nonsense, just to get past that block. Walking, a change of scene, travelling, having a good conversation with someone, or just listening to good music also help get me inspired again.
What are your plans for the next year?
I’m writing for a new record – having released these singles, I’d like to make an album next. I recorded a new track recently, so I want to keep building, writing more and seeing what comes out! I’d also love to do some more live shows.
