The Chewgs, The Interview Series.

The Chewgs

Words By Joey Rochert.

Hello, Gez and Kev, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘Let It Out’, what is the meaning? 

People’s experiences during the pandemic seemed quite polarised. Some thrived on the more isolated environment, which was good for song writing by the way. Other however struggled a lot which impacted upon their mental health. This song was about them.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

I love The Decemberists. Songs such as Legionnaires Lament or Mariner’s Revenge are so lyrically complex and interesting.  Also Colin Melloy who fronts the band sings in a similar range so it helps to enjoy those songs even more.

The Chewgs
Photo Credit: The Chewgs.

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2023?

At one level the best thing in any era is creating something new where there wasn’t anything before. And when after a period of time this is still a song you enjoy playing and the audience responds to than that’s extra special. In 2023 the technology to support this process helps enormously, especially when experimenting.

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

Nowhere specific but a quiet space. When the weather is nicer this seems to be the conservatory.

What is your first memory of music? 

My mum would have the radio on constantly at home in the kitchen growing up. She’s a big fan of 60s music which I would have grown up listening to. It’s probably why I still love that era of music so much.

Photo Credit: The Chewgs.

Ervin, ‘Carolynn’

Ervin

Words By Joey Rochert.

Ervin, the vocalist who came to our attention for the first time in 2022, has returned with a new track ‘Carolynn’. The release is out on Friday, February 17th, and it will have you hooked in no time!

Not only is the music lovely, with the plucked guitar arrangement creating a beautiful feeling within us, but the words also move us closer to the speakers as the singer-songwriter speaks honestly about a relationship clouded by depression. Nevertheless, Ervin looks back at his time with his beautiful Carolynn and reflects fondly on their shared experiences.

Photo Credit: Ervin.

Freelevel, ‘Instigator’

Freelevel

Words By Joey Rochert.

The Swedish pop-rock band Freelevel crank up the intensity with their latest single, ‘Instigator’. You won’t be able to resist giving in to this new offering from the group who are smashing it right now!

The guitars tear through the speakers with an irresistible edge, while Anna Christoffersson’s vocals drag us out of our chairs and straight into the encounter. She possesses an unrivalled level of passion, and when she speaks about overcoming any challenge that may be thrown our way, we are left with a lasting impression.

Photo Credit: Freelevel.

Voodoo Rays, The Interview Series.

Voodoo Rays

Words By Joey Rochert.

‘Empire’; what’s the meaning?

It’s a suite of songs about a woman called Chantal in a relationship that’s gradually falling apart. Partially but by no means totally drawn from observation, and experience. 

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

I greatly admire Kae Tempest, love Dry Cleaning, always get excited by what Kanye is up to (for all his faults) and really like the Sleaford Mods. Loads of others too, but those are the main ones at the moment. 

Voodoo Rays
Photo Credit: Voodoo Rays.

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2022?

The extraordinary range of technology. Recording songs on your phone. Mixing bands on your laptop. Buying vintage guitars on your desktop. Still seems like magic to me. The ability to reach hearts and minds anywhere in the world within a few seconds of uploading your new song. And hearing feedback from them instantly. Brilliant!

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

My living room; a Gibson firebird, Logic X, Rodes condenser mic and a Scarlett sound card. All you need to take a note for a walk. I never write on acoustic guitars or pianos. Instead I’m always on the look out for a texture or sound that grabs my attention. A bit like playing in a sandbox really. Keep messing around until something begins to take shape in your mind. 

Photo Credit: Voodoo Rays.

Julia Thomsen, ‘Travelling Through Wonders’

Julia Thomsen

Words By Joey Rochert.

Julia Thomsen teams up with producer Marie for a one-of-a-kind remake of her standout composition, ‘Wonderness’. The new release, which is called, ‘Travelling Through Wonders’ reaches the pinnacle of beauty and leaves one in a state of relaxation.

For all of you who practise mindfulness meditation, this one is your golden ticket to a relaxing getaway! It is enchanting from the first note, and that aura of tranquillity does not fade away as it continues along its road of enchantment. The arrangement that Julia came up with is magnificent, and she is brimming with passion. In addition, Marie provides an additional layer of shine, resulting in a new vitality that contributes to the original.

‘Travelling Through Wonders’ is out on the 27th of January.

Photo Credit: Kingdumb.

Kingdumb, ‘Do It Like Me’

Kingdumb

Words By Joey Rochert.

The release of ‘Do It Like Me’ by Swindon’s ascendant producer Kingdumb draws us back in. Fresh and flavorful, “Do It Like Me” is the ideal song to kick off the New Year. It is not completely novel for the new beginning, but it continues to make enormous strides following its first debut in late 2022.

The bass drop is enormous, and we can feel the floor shaking as the song erupts from the speakers. Also, the layering of synthesisers and infectious percussion fills have us bopping along from beginning to end, excitedly anticipating what Kingdumb has in store for 2023.

Photo Credit: Kingdumb.

Voodoo Rays, ‘Empire’

Voodoo Rays

Words By Joey Rochert.

Voodoo Rays smash it with the release of their album, ‘Empire’. The record, which is comprised of ten tracks, offers something that will appeal to almost everybody, and the quality that the band has up their sleeve is invigorating.

They draw inspiration from legendary figures in the game, yet they are able to combine this with a look and feel that is uniquely theirs in the present era. They stand out thanks to their capacity to maintain their individuality within the scene while at the same time adhering to the course that has been established for them.

The album is full of twists and turns, and the strength it possesses is exhilarating to witness. Additionally, every member of the band rises to the occasion with vigour, whether it be the drums, which strike with intensity, the bass lines, which leave the mouth watering, the guitar riffs, which grip, or the vocal delivery, which is indenting!

Photo Credit: Voodoo Rays.

Charmaine Wohlmann, ‘Avalanche’

Charmaine Wohlmann

Words By Joey Rochert.

‘Avalanche’, Charmaine Wohlmann’s newest offering in the pop game, wastes no time in getting to work. In a scene that is saturated with similar music, the new release is a welcome burst of variety, and Charmaine’s effort is what ultimately wins us over.

The suspense in ‘Avalanche’ only increases as the track proceeds. In addition, it begins with a guitar that strums in rapid succession, followed by a beat that taps your foot, and a standout vocal performance from Charmaine. She talks about life and the challenges it presents, yet the single still has a feel-good edge to it, and we can’t help but move to the groove!

Photo Credit: Charmaine Wohlmann.

AJ Whyte, ‘Run’

AJ Whyte

Words By Joey Rochert.

AJ Whyte grabs the spotlight with the release of his new single, ‘Run’. The latest release from the Rutland-based performer is out now, and it follows the highly-praised ‘You Won’t Hear Me’ which AJ dropped in October.

‘Run’ continues in the same vein as AJ’s previous work, with the guitar playing an essential part in the whole experience. In addition, the song starts with a strumming guitar pattern; then AJ quickly enters the mix with a powerful vocal lead. His vocal is even more engaging than it was in his previous performance, and he tells a story about war, even though this may just be a metaphor for the difficulties that many people encounter in life.

Photo Credit: The Chewgs.

The Chewgs, ‘Let It Out’

The Chewgs

Words By Joey Rochert.

The Chewgs are a band on the ascent, and with the release of their newest single, ‘Let It Out,’ they are not holding anything back.

Combining aspects of folk music and pop, the duo are not holding anything back, and we are delighted by the infectious style that they have developed. In the beginning of the song, a guitar strumming its way forward can be heard, then shortly thereafter, a vocal can be heard emerging from the mix.

The words reverberate with stories that prove to be thought-provoking, and as the song progresses, the intensity builds as the chorus burrows deeper and deeper into the heart.

Photo Credit: The Chewgs.