After showcasing his vibrant direction with a string of much-loved initial offerings these last few months, fast-rising artist The Joy Of Elephant recently delivered his eagerly-awaited self-titled debut album, featuring the stellar highlight 'Hey Lovely'.
Much like his ambitious endeavours to date, 'Hey Lovely' has this wonderfully explorative feel to it. Moving with this subtle elegance across a shimmering synth-pop-inspired production throughout, he is certainly someone worth keeping a firm eye on for the future as well.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and inspirations over the years.
What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?
The early Duran Duran blew my mind, but I also discovered Prince at the same time and that probably made a big impact later on.
Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like?
I joined different bands at a young age, but the first band I formed from the start sounded something like a grungy Brit-pop kind of thing, or at least that was what we thought.
What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?
Watching series or movies often kickstarts the urge to develop and amplify a vibe or atmosphere. But sometimes in random settings, it feels like a portal to another dimension opens up for a split second and I have to grab the idea to develop it into a song or piece of music.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
There are so many many great songs out there, but to be short I will have to say ‘Yesterday’ by the Beatles – it's going to be around us forever.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
As a late teenager, I joined a well-established band in my home town. The first gig I played with that band was packed with people in one of the largest venues in town. I was probably a little stressed out and forgot the time and place. Would be nice to relive it again, without the stress, haha.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Easy - Taylor Swift.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
It appears to me that Damon Albarn is always evolving and challenging both his creativity and methodology – I guess I would learn a trick or two from him.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
I hope I will look at a still-growing catalogue and have been spending time touring for a while with The Joy of Elephant. And I hope I will still challenge my creativity, explore new sonic grounds, and write better songs and music.
The Joy Of Elephant's new single 'Hey Lovely' is out now. Check it out below.
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