Enjoyable Listens – The Field

By starrymag | March 30, 2021

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

 

 

Q) How would you best describe your sound?

 

A) It’s the sound of a man trying to nonchalantly convince others he’s worth their time, fashioned into a palatable melody and positioned sweetly in front of a deep, lovely beat.

 

Q) Tell us how you came to be a part of the SXSW Festival.

 

A) I took a long run up, I focused myself. I saw what it would be like to play SXSW a couple of years ago and then subconsciously made the correct decisions to get here. Also, Kelly, of End Of The Trail, was kind enough to get me on his stage with Fierce Panda.

 

Q) What does it mean to you to be participating in this prestigious festival? 

 

A) It’s somewhat overwhelming. I just hope I do everyone proud.

It’s also an indicator that I might be as good as I think I am.

 

Q) You recently released a single and video for “The Field.” How did you develop the concept for the video and what was the reasoning for incorporating the Picture-in-Picture effect for it?

 

A) Thank you for your question. I was at a loose end for a concept, but knew I wanted people to think that I was playing with the boundaries of mediocrity. The Picture in Picture was a result of me not fully understanding how to transpose images on iMovie.

 

Q) What draws you to create music in the 80’s English pop style?

 

A) It’s all I can do, really. My sound started from borrowing my old roommate’s toy Yamaha keyboard to record an EP on. It was a gift from his Nan who lives in Hastings. We used to visit her once a year. She’s surprisingly mobile for her age, too. I recently purchased a similar keyboard on Facebook Market place for the bargain price of £30. I tried to lowball and offered £10 plus songwriting credits, but the seller wasn’t having it. £30’s still a great price, though.

 

Q) Just curious, whose idea was it to incorporate those sweet dance moves into the music video for “The Key of Innocence?”

 

A) Thanks. Dancing is really the only way I feel comfortable expressing myself in front of people I don’t know. Our own words can betray us but moves show who one truly is.

 

Q) You have been releasing a lot of singles as of late. Is there a potential full-length album in the works?

 

A) You’re right, I have been. I think an album is a good idea. Too many single releases could result in a lack of theme. I just churn tunes out too quickly. I think I’m gonna write an album on my new Yamaha PSS 270 that I mentioned in a previous answer. I guess I need to stop being so precious and put out a full-length audial journey for my small yet devoted band of listeners.

 

Q) What topics or themes are you inspired by most during the songwriting process?

 

A) I write about anything. The key is to introduce multiple objects, people, settings. Catalysts and triggers. My latest tune is about a cold-water swimming club I started. Theology is always good subject matter. So is the inevitability of failure and frailty of human construct.

 

Q) How has utilizing social media to promote your music helped you, especially during a time that in-person interaction and live shows are limited?

 

A) It’s given me a portal, through which I can assess the feelings of those I care about. It’s given me a reason to consider my future. I really think that Instagram is the new thing. I’m sure it’ll be massive one day. I am grateful for it. As I get older, I’m learning to love business. Viewing it as a part of the business allows me to touch the lives of my loves, but also maintain a safe distance lest the algorithms ensnare me.

 

Q) When you were finally able to get back into doing live shows, what was something you had missed about performing live?

 

A) Getting into it. Getting into it is something I can’t do anywhere else. I have no other means of catharsis in my life that is anything like what I’m allowed to do on stage. I love pulling people in. Spending time with people in the zone I’ve made for us. That’s what I’m looking forward to.

 

Q) If I were to take a look at your music collection, what album or artist would I be surprised to find in there?

 

A) I’m not sure if you’d be surprised to find James Blunt in there because he does bang, but maybe James Blunt.

 

Q) Who are you currently listening to now?

 

A) A A Bondy’s new record, Enderness. I always have Baby Dayliner on the go, too. Rainn Byrns just introduced me to Sneaky Pete Kleinow, which I’m eternally grateful for. Also, Leonard Cohen, Phoebe Bridgers and Alex Cameron.

 

Q) Aside from music, what do you love to do in your down time?

 

A) I love making various chutneys, specifically caramelized red onion and tomato and chili. I also enjoy crafting rustic furniture, reading the bible, writing poems, crayfishing and drinking.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who are fans and supporters of your music?

 

A) Thank you so much for all of your time. Hopefully, we can all see each other again soon.

Have a blessed evening, all.