Camren Skelton

A junior studying journalism and music business at the University of Georgia, Camren spends her time procrastinating under the discover tab on Spotify and taking pictures of her dog. After spending the summer abroad, she has a remarkable appreciation for good gelato, cheap wine and British accents. With favorites like Simon and Garfunkel, Dave Matthews Band, Coldplay and Moon Taxi, she is open to a variety of musical genres and is a connoisseur of any and all music festivals. In her spare time you can find her binge watching her latest obsession on Netflix or dreaming of ways to meet and marry John Krasinski.

Broken Hands x Vinyl Mag

Posted on November 3, 2016December 6, 2016 by Camren Skelton

Imagine you’re standing on a jetway, planes soaring above and beside you, the sound of jet engines roaring on all sides–and you might just know what it feels like to be in the crowd at a live Broken Hands gig. Relatively new to the music scene, the British rockers have already received significant U.K. radio airplay with their lead single, “Meteor,” and their debut album, Turbulence, is set for release Nov. 4. With slots at SXSW and CMJ, the band is already making significant headway into the U.S. market.

We sat down with bassist Thomas Ford to talk about the band’s exciting new release, inspiration, and what it’s like when you step foot through the door of a live show.

VM: How would you describe your sound to someone who is unfamiliar with the band?

TF: It’s kind of the sound of jet engines and flights we really tried to convey in the album. A lot to do with escaping. It’s pretty heavy but the song always gets what it needs at the end of the day.

VM: And your debut album is set to come out next month, so what are you most excited for fans to hear?

TF: Really just the whole thing. As soon as people understand what we are trying to say, even if they don’t really like it, that’s not good, but if people hear it and they understand what we were trying to say with the album, understand where we were when we wrote it, then that is kind of big for us.

VM: When you set out to record the album, did you have a set plan or was it more of an experimental process?

TF: The songs in themselves, it was like one main songwriter. And then we found almost the concept, the vehicle we wanted to write with. It was very easy to write together and to achieve the same kind of goal. So the songs we worked on for a good six or seven months, and then we got into the studio, and that’s a great place to check creativity because we are very like-minded. So once we kind of built the song and everything up around it, then we went mad with the sounds. It was pretty straightforward, but then we went mad at the end.

VM: So the music video for “Meteor“ was captured at one of your sold-out shows, and the whole venue is covered in silver foil. Is this something you do at every show? What’s the inspiration behind it?

TF: We were playing shows and the album wasn’t actually out yet. So we couldn’t have people see the cover and instantly see all of the information, what was there to convey the concept. So it was really important to us that when people came into the shows, they weren’t just guessing to what we were trying to get to. We wanted to really build the experience up. So we got these huge parachutes of silver foil and then draped the entire venue. Because you could be in a really normal, everyday club in London and then step through the door and suddenly you’re in this capsule, and light reflects off all the walls. And I think it tied into our concept. They hadn’t heard it yet, so they got to hear the concept before they had a copy of the album.

VM: Speaking of live shows, how would you describe the vibes from a Broken Hands gig?

TF: We really try and extend how we wrote the album over into the room. And embody each song as it comes. We’ve got quite a big energy. So it’s hopefully kind of the feeling of getting sucked into a vacuum and then popping out the other end, a very kind of loud, windy experience. It’s almost like hearing it sounds like you’re near an airport, hearing a jet engine go, hearing things soar from one side to the other. For us, it’s all about extending and embodying that and trying to bring people as close into that as possible.

VM: Since forming, you’ve landed spots at festivals including SXSW and CMJ, was this your first time playing in the U.S.?

TF: Yeah, SXSW was the first time. That was one of my favorite weeks, ever. The states are just fantastic. I’ve only been to a few places yet—New York, Boston, and Minneapolis is another favorite, and it’s so different every single time. So many different people. Pretty much everyone is very vocal. They tell you exactly what they want to say. Whereas in England, it doesn’t matter if they like it or not, they might just walk away from the show. Which is really odd. But I love it out there, it’s crazy and there’s always a whole bunch of people to talk to afterward, which is huge. SXSW is truly something. It was really up there for us.

VM: Do you have any dream venues to perform at?

TF: We like the look of Red Rocks, and there’s a really cool place in Minneapolis, I think it was called First Avenue. And then I think Terminal 5 in New York was one. But every single room we get to play in is going to be exhilarating.

VM: What kind of artists are you listening to at the moment? Are there any you look to for inspiration?

TF: We all live together in one big house, we moved in together to write the album. It’s kind of a strange thing because if one person really gets on something, then everyone else is drawn in on it. This week has been Depeche Mode, and they just announced a tour which is absolutely wicked. I think in terms of a show, a band that has longevity and composure, My Morning Jacket, are really big for us. Really admire what they do, especially on stage. The energy they put out, but at the same time, it’s so composed. It’s ridiculous. I would love if we could get anywhere near opening for them.

VM: Circling back to your new album, out of all the tracks on Turbulence, which lyrics resonate with you the most? Or do you have a favorite track, one you’re most excited for fans to hear?

TF: Funny enough it is “Turbulence.” It just embodies the most what we were going for in the album. I think it was the first track we wrote, and we were coming back through the old tapes, and things change in the recording process, but when we put on “Turbulence,” it hasn’t changed since the day we put it together and arranged it in rehearsal space. Every time we play “Turbulence” it really reminds me of the beginning of this whole thing. The beginning of the album, the beginning of getting out to the world.

Check out Broken Hands’ debut album, Turbulence, out Nov. 4 via SO Recordings.

SUSTO X Vinyl Mag

Posted on June 30, 2016 by Camren Skelton

Charleston is a city known for its rich history, beautiful architecture and tasty Southern delicacies—but recently, it is music that has taken the forefront and put the city on the map as a musician’s haven. As more and more local artists achieve nationwide notoriety, the city has become less of a tourist destination and more of a home to the creative community—and SUSTO is just one of the bands that can attest to that. The alt-country band is well known throughout the Charleston music scene and with slots in Americana Fest and Austin City Limits later this year, it’s evident that they won’t be a locals-only band for long. We sat down with Justin Osborne, chief songwriter and frontman of SUSTO, to talk their unique new release, upcoming tour and what it’s like to live in such a tight-knit, creative community.

Vinyl Mag: The music scene in Charleston has really kind of exploded the last few years and you guys have been a big part of that scene–what’s it like recording and living in a tight-knit city like that?

Justin Osborne: It’s really awesome. Especially the last three to five years, things have really taken off. People are moving to Charleston to play music, and it’s such a community of artists. And there are people who aren’t from Charleston that live there, so that’s really cool because they tell their friends from their hometowns what Charleston bands they’re listening to, and then their friends start listening to them, and then when we have out-of-town shows, it’s cool to see those new fans there.

VM: So of course I want to talk about your latest release—“Chillin’ on the Beach with my Best Friend Jesus Christ”—love the music video, it’s great—I haven’t heard anything like it—where did you get the idea to write a song like this? Inspiration?

JO: Well I’ve always wanted to incorporate the gospel sounds into songs, I love that sound. And I’ve always loved the idea of chilling on the beach with Jesus Christ. We wanted to release it but didn’t want to put in on an album, so we thought it would be a good idea to release it as a video in the summer. And I feel like even if you’re not religious, you can enjoy the music.

VM: Yeah, I feel like religious, non-religious—it’s relatable for all audiences.

JO: Exactly, and that’s what we wanted to achieve.

VM: Is this kind of appropriated religious language and imagery common in your writing?

JO: Well I’m not religious at all, it just kind of comes out. I think it comes from my background, growing up in a religious home. But it’s not intentional in the writing process, just part of my dynamic and some of the issues I want to discuss.

VM: So you have some exciting tour dates coming up, including Americana Fest in Nashville and then Austin City Limits—What are you looking forward to for these festivals? Are there any other venues you’re excited to play at?

JO: Yeah, really excited. Playing at these festivals has always been a dream of mine, and Austin City Limits is just a place where so many big names come, and even Americana Fest is going to be really exciting. We’re also playing the Mile of Music Festival in Wisconsin and I’m really excited for that. We’re just so happy to be out on the road, playing music and touring.

VM: And you’re in the process of working on your sophomore album, right? Any news on a release date?

JO: Yeah we’re really excited for it. It’s two years in the making so we’re excited for people to hear it. We actually just finished tracking it, and we expect to announce a release date in the next few weeks. But we’re really excited for it, really excited for fans to hear it. Excited to see what they think. I think fans of SUSTO will continue to be fans of our new material. It’s a little less country, but still SUSTO, has that gospel sound you could say.

VM: Well excited to hear it, thank for sitting down to talk to us!

JO: Cheers!

Artists to Watch: Bonnaroo 2016

Posted on June 8, 2016 by Camren Skelton

Once again, Bonnaroo has hit it big with their impressive–and expansive–2016 lineup. With so many artists, deciding what acts to see in between the headliners can be a daunting task. That’s why we created a guide on the best up-and-coming acts to catch on The Farm this year.

1. The Record Company

There’s no mistaking that this trio has a sweet blues sound, but one cannot miss the underlying beats that make them oh so similar to an early rock ‘n’ roll band. Their debut album, Give it Back to You, was released in February and they are currently the #1 Triple A radio artist. We caught their set at Hangout just a few weeks ago and impressive is an understatement. This band is going places and you do not want to miss their performace this weekend.

2. Stokeswood

Atlanta-based Stokeswood will bring an incredibly unique and undeniable energy to the Club Stage. For their debut Bonnaroo performance, it’s a guarantee that the guys will bring pumping synths, dance vibes and powerful vocals. Their dynamic gives them a fierce electronic edge and it will leave you with songs that won’t want to get out of your head.

3. Lawrence

Led by siblings Clyde and Gracie Lawrence, this New York-based soul pop group blends old school and new school vibes to create a sound that will keep you hanging out at the front of the stage. With the release of their debut LP, Breakfast, it’s exciting to see the success this young duo has on the horizon.

4. Joseph

A trio of sisters, Joseph brings beautiful harmonies and earnest lyrics to the stage. Named after a small town in northeast Oregon, the indie folk act hails from Portland. Their debut album was released in 2014 and with the recent release of the upbeat single, “White Flag,” we are excited to see what the band has in store for the future.

5. Civil Twilight

Civil Twilight has a powerful sound that brushes on every corner of human emotion. The delicate lyrics make you think, while the rolling drumbeat and vibrant guitar vamps keep you intrigued. It’s easy to hear the dynamic beats inspired by their native home of South Africa, the connection that keeps the band going while they are far from home.

6. Whitney

With sounds that make you want to roll down your car windows and sing along, Whitney is one act you won’t want to miss at this year’s festival. Their debut album, Light Upon the Lake, was released early this month so the duo is sure to bring an exciting new sound to the stage and a high-energy performance that will keep you singing along.

7. Sun Club

Hailing from Baltimore, Md., effervescent indie poppers Sun Club put a colorful, punk-infused spin on traditional pop. In October, the band’s first full-length album will be available through ATO Records, making them one up-and-comer you will not want to miss.

8. Sunflower Bean

What do you get when you channel a passion for Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin and the Velvets? The sweet sound that is Sunflower Bean. The indie trio hailing from NYC is sure to take the Bonnaroo stage by storm with their rock-influenced vocals and sweet riffs. Their debut album, Human Ceremony, is self-described as a “conflicting interest”—a mixture of dream pop and rock ‘n’ roll. The diversity this group brings to the stage makes them a must-see.

9. Sir the Baptist

Through the combination of pop, hip-hop, R&B and gospel, Sir the Baptist creates a sound that is truly unique and intriguing. With the deep-rooted mission of progressing people past the old ways of religious teachings and being a voice of positivity amongst an often negative landscape, Sir the Baptist not only brings an interesting sound to the stage, but an intriguing social message as well.

10. Grace Mitchell

Young artist Grace Mitchell has a fiery sound that puts an innovative and experimental twist on traditional pop music. The undeniable dance beats will keep you on your toes and her intriguing vocals will pull you to the front of the stage, making this one act you will not want to miss. The catchy single, “White Iversion,” was released earlier this year, paving the way for more exciting work from this artist.

11. Powers

Intimate, rambunctious and heartfelt are just a few adjectives that could be used to describe Powers. The electronic pop duo got their start as songwriters, creating tracks for big names including Selena Gomez, Christina Aguilera, Kylie Minogue and Skylar Gray and Eminem, but got their big break as artists with their debut EP, Legendary, in 2015. The infectious beats and contagious lyrics this duo brings to the stage is one you will want to add to your list.

12. Dylan LeBlanc

The soulful, bluesy vocals and guitar that make up Dylan LeBlanc can only be described as undeniably intriguing. His latest release, Cautionary Tale, highlights the singer’s maturity and obvious talent and takes the listener on a journey of clarity, truthfulness and purity.

13. Firekid

Hailing from Nashville, the indie folk project that is Firekid is shaded in synths and heavily influenced by bluegrass. The hit single, “Lay By Me,” topped the charts and grabbed the attention of indie folk lovers everywhere and there’s no doubt that there are many more exciting things to come from this artist.

14. Oh Wonder

London-based duo Oh Wonder craft mellow, slow-moving, R&B vibes that, although not fast-paced, are upbeat and perfect for the Bonnaroo stage. Their self-titled debut was released in 2015 and we can’t wait to see what exciting sounds this duo will create next.

15. Amasa Hines

With influences from a diverse range of soul, afro-beat, psychedelic, blues, dub and indie rock, the sounds of Arkansas-based Amasa Hines are as large as their wide range of influences. Their debut album was released in 2014 and we can’t wait to see what sweet sounds the band will release next.

16. Bully

The Nashville-based quartet brings a noisy, upbeat sound to the stage that is sure to keep you on your feet. With a sound undeniably influenced by grunge, the band has a unique sound and a raw talent. Their fiery debut album, Feels Like, was written, produced and engineered by lead vocalist Alicia Bognanno.

17. Mail the Horse

This Brooklyn-based quintet has a captivating folk-rock sound. Their newest record joins instrumentation of the late ‘60s with early ‘00s garage rock, making it an act you won’t want to miss.

Shaky Knees 2016: Polyenso X Vinyl Mag

Posted on May 21, 2016May 20, 2016 by Camren Skelton

St. Petersburg-based trio Polyenso create their sound through an eclectic fusion of indie rock, electronic, folk and hip-hop. Formerly known as Oceana, the band brings something new to the table with lighter, more uplifting music under their new name. We had the chance to chat with Polyenso’s own Alex Schultz prior to their set at Shaky Knees to discuss influences, songwriting and what fans can expect in the future as the band evolves, changes and continues to push the boundaries of what they do.

Vinyl Mag: So are you guys excited for Shaky Knees?

Alex Schultz: Oh yeah, this will be our first major music festival.

VM: And you’re playing Bonnaroo this year too right?

AS: Yeah, second major music festival.

VM: Pretty exciting way to kick off your U.S. tour!

AS: Yeah, this tour is kind of like a festival sandwich. We’ve got Shaky Knees the first date and Bonnaroo the last date. So it’s perfect, it worked out really well.

VM: Are there any other cities or venues you’re really excited to play at?

AS: Oh yeah, we haven’t been out to the west coast, as Polyenso, ever. You know in other bands we toured out there a while, but not as Polyenso, so we’re just excited to be out there. It’s been too long. But New York of course is going to be amazing. We have a lot of friends in New York and we’re excited to play there. And a couple other cities, but mostly I think we’re just excited to get out to the west coast.

VM: Do you guys have any favorite songs to perform live? Do you do any covers, or have anything that gets the crowd really excited?

AS: We kind of re-invented this album, because we recorded the whole thing in the studio. And we never played any of it live before until we started rehearsing for this tour. So we kind of re-invented a lot of the tracks live. So they’ve got this whole new dynamic. My favorite to do live is “Let it Go.” I know, I think Denny’s is “Every Single Time” or “A Pool Worth Diving In,” but yeah, no covers on this one. I was thinking about doing a Prince thing, but things were so crazy, we didn’t have time to put something that would have really honored him together, so we decided to just play our songs, maybe say something.

VM: So you guys started out as Oceana…how has it been changing from that sound to the sounds of Polyenso?

AS: Honestly, back in those days when we did play with that band we had always listened to the things that inspired Polyenso’s music, we just never really let them come out in our writing. Little bits here and there vocally and melodically sometimes, but there wasn’t really room for it in that type of music. So with this new stuff, we let those influences completely take over. Influences like Sufjan Stevens, Bjork and Paul Simon. And Flying Lotus. Some of the other hip-hop influences you can hear on the new stuff. We’ve been listening to that stuff forever, now just let it finally really influence our music and that’s why the big change happened and that’s why we decided to start a new band and honor that stuff we didn’t in the past. Cause that was a time and we’re proud of it but we just started something completely different, and didn’t do it under the same moniker. But luckily when we did form Polyenso, we had a lot of fans from our other band that kind of grew with us, so there was a lot of crossover. They were like okay, I can get into this now at this point in my life and they were on the same page as us. So it helped a lot and we got a lot of support from those fans.

VM: Loyal fan base.

AS: Yeah, totally. I mean we got a lot of heat for it too, a lot of internet hate, stuff like that, but if you’re gonna change something up like that you’ve got to expect that.

VM: Yeah, you’ve got to stick to what feels right for you. So what was your writing process like for Pure In The Plastic?

AS: It was something completely foreign to us as musicians. We got an awesome opportunity to be in the studio with a producer that some friends introduced us to, in our hometown, and we talked for a little bit, we showed him some of our old music from our first album, and he was making all these comparisons like R.E.M and Radiohead, and he really loved it and wanted to hear some new stuff so we showed him some little things we had been writing, and one thing led to another and we ended up being in that studio almost every day for about two years. So our first album was pretty classic writing scenario, we would all be in a room together and would be bouncing ideas off each other and I would have my guitar, and Denny would be on the drums and Brennan would have his guitar and keyboard and we would just write classic band style. But with this new one, we had a little bit written, which is what we showed the producer, but for the most part we went in and completely wrote and recorded everything piece by piece. So the three of us were rarely in the studio at the same time. Denny would come in and lay down a drum groove, then I would come in the next day or so and put bass and synthesizers or a vocal melody and some guitars and then Brennan would come in and do the same thing and we would just tweak this thing until it became something that we all were completely obsessed over. And then we would all sit down together and structure it out. Decide which part was the intro, which part we would do verses or choruses. Pop music, Prince, Michael Jackson, Paul Simon, people like that they still have a huge influence on what we do, as does the experimental, so we’re big on The Beatles, stuff like that, we experiment for sure, and we got the opportunity to experiment like crazy on this new one, but at the end of the day, we want to make it accessible for ourselves and for other people, and the blending of pop meets experimental is what happened there. Because of what we listened to. But the writing process was literally all in the studio, we never played any of it live together before, so playing it live together now is an experience. It’s really cool. Super fun.

VM: Going forward, what do you want people to think of when they hear your name, or hear your music?

AS: I want them to be excited about what they’re going to hear from us next, and I want them to be excited about when they listen to our records, that they’re going to hear something new every time. Because some of my favorite records are like that, you listen to it once and you love it, or you don’t love it, it takes some time to get used to, and then you listen to it again and you hear something new. We put a lot of love into this record, so I just hope when people think about us they get excited for music in general. And what’s next. Because we’re going to keep evolving, keep changing and pushing the boundaries of what we do.

VM: Is there anything else you want to share with Vinyl readers?

AS: Well if there’s any of our fans out there reading this, just wanted to say thank you. For helping us get to this point, because this is the start to what we’ve been working towards for the past five years. These opportunities are right there in front of us and we’re not going to mess them up. The reason that we’re here, not only because of music but because of that awesome fan base we were talking about earlier. So anybody that’s reading this that’s been listening to us, thank you.

Shaky Knees 2016: LANY X Vinyl Mag

Posted on May 20, 2016May 20, 2016 by Camren Skelton

Although they only emerged a little over a year ago, Los Angeles-based trio LANY has quickly made their way to the top of the charts. After touring with Halsey, X Ambassadors, Twin Shadow and, most recently, Ellie Goulding, the young band is now on their own headlining tour across the U.S. Vinyl Mag had the chance to chat with LANY prior to their set at Shaky Knees to talk about their music, touring and the exciting future ahead.

Vinyl Mag: So you guys started out in Nashville and now you’re based in LA. Has that change impacted your songwriting or is the process still pretty much the same?

Paul Klein: I think it’s the same. I mean I was living in LA when we started LANY but I would say it’s probably the same.

VM: Where does the name LANY come from? Does it stand for anything?

PK: Los Angeles, New York. It just represents, all over the country.

VM: And speaking of acronyms, your EP Make Out is full of them—what was the idea behind doing this?

PK: Well Make Out was a re-release because in 2014 we put out an EP called Acronyms that had a voicemail from his mom, I love you so bad and be right back, so we wanted to, we went on tour last year and opened up for people and got a bunch of new fans. And we wanted to kind of, noticed that on our Spotify albums we had a bunch of singles, and it felt a little unorganized, so we wanted to condense and make it an easy discovery process for people. So we complied our songs and put it on Make Out.

Jake Goss: We were actually in Nashville eating when we decided on the Acronyms thing.

VM: Well it’s a cool idea. And you guys recently toured with Ellie Goulding, how was the experience?

PK: It was super tough, probably the hardest thing we’ve done as a band. Just playing two hours before Ellie Goulding in arenas is interesting.

VM: Have you ever played an arena show before?

PK: That was our first. So normally we’re used to being really close, and on top of our fans, or people and in an arena people are really far away from you and two hours before the headliner goes on it’s pretty, it’s like half full. So for instance when we were playing the O2 that holds 20,000 people and there probably were 10,000 people there when we were playing, but it really just felt like there were 10 people.

VM: So would you say you like playing for smaller venues better, or was it cool to play in something that large?

PK: Well our songs sound really humongous in arenas so that’s always awesome. It sounds huge. But I’m gonna say smaller rooms because we’re headlining smaller rooms right now, so that feels better. But I think our greatest challenge as a band but something that I look forward to is making an arena feel like a 500 cap room. Because I know that we will be there one day. So that’ll be, I can answer that question better when we headline.

JG: But it’s always the best to just play with your fans.

VM: So when you get to the arena level, who would you want to open for you guys?

Les Priest: Coldplay

VM: Solid choice.

PK: Yeah, I don’t know probably whatever. I mean I hope that we can bring up bands that remind us of us when we were not playing arenas. Bring those people out.

VM: So if you could describe your sound in three words, what would you say?

PK: Dreamy, aspirational and emotive, or convincing. There you go, you have a couple choices.

VM: Looking towards the future, what can fans expect from LANY? Any news on an album release date?

PK: No news, just because we don’t have any news on that. But you can expect just a lot of activity I guess. A lot of content coming your way.

Shaky Knees 2016: The Dear Hunter X Vinyl Mag

Posted on May 20, 2016May 20, 2016 by Camren Skelton

What started as a solo project of frontman Casey Crescenzo eventually turned into a full band with over a hundred songs to their name. Progressive rock band The Dear Hunter features a wide variety of instruments and sounds and is known for their creation of immersive concept albums. Vinyl Mag got the chance to sit down with Crescenzo at Shaky Knees to talk inspiration and the strategic writing process behind each new creation.

Vinyl Mag: You guys have such a huge back catalogue. How do you narrow it down when you’re playing a set at a festival?

Casey Crescenzo: It’s really hard, honestly, especially because we always want to just play new songs. The one’s that we’re the most fresh on, and excited about. Represent us the most in the moment. But I think that’s a little too selfish to do it only that way. So it’s just a mix. What songs do we really really want to play right now and what songs do we think people who already know us might want to hear. If they aren’t super up to date on all the new stuff. But it’s pretty chaotic, the act of making a set list.

VM: I love the idea of you doing concept albums. Can you tell us a little bit about the writing process behind it?

CC: Yeah, I think it’s changed per record. The first few records were really just me, in a room writing for hours on end. And this last record is the first time it was really kind of, I gave the band a treatment of the story and concept artwork that no one else would see and just—nerding out on it—but just so they would have a frame of reference of where my head’s at about it. Cause I think of track listings before there’s a note of any of the songs, just to spell it out. So lately it’s been me coming with a few skeletons, and then everybody in the band, I don’t want to say putting their mark on it, because that sounds like they’re forcing it, but it’s like everybody with the story in mind and with the concept in mind kind of working together to complete a song, or a record.

VM: So when you’re writing, do the lyrics normally come before the music?

CC: No, I think the meaning comes before the music. But the lyrics usually are the last thing I do. When I’m writing music I sing with it, but it’s mostly just phonetics and gibberish, and I get my melody really comfortable. And this is going to sound really clinical, but it’s almost like painting by numbers, because I know the cadences already, I know the rhythms and the melodies, so it’s kind of like I know the rhythms, I know the melodies, I don’t know the lyrics yet but I know what I want to say with them, so it’s an easier process than to write lyrics from scratch. With no melody and no idea. But that is usually the last thing to come. Curiously enough with a concept album. I’m not a poet, so I don’t just sit and write poetry.

VM: So if you were describing your sound to someone who has never heard your music, what would you say?

CC: No idea, I hate when people say we’re just music, or it’s eclectic or something like that. Usually when people do ask I say it’s a rock band because I think if you took the widest cross section of the band that’s the element that’s shared amongst all the varying genres, but honestly there’s everything from Latin folk, to dark industrial rock, to ambient, kind of shoegaze music, to just pop. There’s plenty of just stupid pop songs that I’ve written. But it’s really all over the place, so instead of it being just kind of like, oh there’s something for everybody, it’s more like there’s everything for people who want to hear everything. And I think that’s why it doesn’t really appeal to a wide audience, it’s more just people like me who just like music, and aren’t necessarily genre specific. They don’t really have an interest, or exclusively listen to one type of music. So that’s the people I think it appeals to, and that’s what I usually describe it as, rock music that can be pretty much any type of genre.

VM: People that enjoy the meaning behind the songs too.

CC: Yeah I think it goes both ways. I think some people get really into the story, and then some people don’t think about the story at all and just think about the visceral pleasure of it. Some people cast the story away and the lyrics still have meaning. I mean there’s some songs that are really plot-driven, concept record songs. But there’s 90% of music I believe has a meaning, and can be enjoyed void completely of a concept. It is still identifiable and relatable without being over arching, 30 hours, space odyssey music.

VM: When it comes to playing something like Shaky Knees, do you have a different way of choosing your songs, as opposed to playing a smaller venue?

CC: Yeah, I think it’s just knowing that we’re not a headliner here. And knowing that while some people might know us, it’s not necessarily satisfying people who might know us at a show like this, it’s more of what do you choose that you think might be interest-catching for people who have no idea who you are. I mean we arrange a set the same way we would if we were supporting a bigger band, like going on tour as a supporter. I think the headliner sets we do are usually a little more selfish, a little bit more what do we want to play and what would our fans want to hear. And not even thinking about what might be interesting to someone who’s never heard us.

VM: So what’s next for the Dear Hunter after this? Any tour dates you’re looking forward to, or anything new you’re working on?

CC: We actually do this and then two days off , and then we start a three week tour with O’ Brother and Rare Futures. But we do that until the beginning of June, then we have a few months off and I don’t really know what’s after that, but those are the immediate things.

VM: An exciting few weeks ahead it sounds like. Staying busy.

CC: Lots of friends, that’s the best thing is we’re friends with all those people. Mini vacation.

Hangout 2016: Artists To Watch

Posted on May 20, 2016 by Camren Skelton

With headlining acts like The Weeknd, Alabama Shakes and Ellie Goulding flocking to the shores of Hangout this year, there’s no doubt that 2016 will be one to remember. But when it comes to festivals, sometimes it’s the artists who are on the verge of becoming household names that will end up being your favorite acts of the weekend. From indie-rock to alternative pop, R&B and folk, this year’s Hangout boasts an eclectic mix of artists. To make sure you catch the best, we compiled a list of 10 acts you won’t want to miss.

Atlas Genius

Australian indie rockers Atlas Genius caught people’s attention when their hit “Trojans” made it’s way into the blogosphere. With their catchy lyrics, dance-infused melodies and two full-length albums under their belt, it’s not hard to see that the young band is on their way to mainstream success.

Bully

The Nashville-based quartet brings a noisy, upbeat sound to the stage that is sure to keep you on your feet. With a sound undeniably influenced by grunge, the band has a unique sound and a raw talent. Their fiery debut album, Feels Like was written, produced and engineered by lead vocalist Alicia Bognanno.

GIVERS

Louisiana-based indie pop outfit has a self-described “afro-beat, dancy pants, indie pop love music” sound. Steeped in the culture and traditions of their native home, the band relies heavily on spirited vocals and has been compared to bands like Vampire Weekend and Dirty Projectors.

Half Moon Run

Known for their expansive, emotional and ethereal lyrics, Canadian rockers Half Moon Run are sure to be a hit at this year’s Hangout. With complex arrangements, inspired by both classical and modern composers, each live show strikingly showcases the band’s raw talent and eclectic musical background.

Kaleo

You won’t want to miss the driving indie folk sound this quartet brings to the stage. Hailing from Iceland, the band started playing together as teenagers, adopting the name “Kaleo”—a Hawaiian word for “the sound.” Inspired by a mix of blues, folk, country and rock, the band’s eclectic sound is one you won’t want to get out of your head.

Magic Man

Synth-heavy beats and mesmerizing vocals are the defining factors of this Boston-based band. After the release of their debut full-length album in 2014, the electronic rockers gained a solid foundation and one can only look forward to what lies ahead in the future.

Muddy Magnolias

The innovative duo is dropping their debut album this summer and one can only guess at the success that is poised to follow. They portray the everyday experience of the 21st century woman through a powerful and mesmerizing sound, and their bluesy, soulful vibe is one you will not want to miss out on.

The Griswolds

These indie rockers are known for their catchy tunes, upbeat lyrics and–staying true to the ways of their Australian home–laidback lifestyle. Since the release of their debut album Be Impressive, they’ve toured with fellow indie rockers Passion Pit and Walk The Moon and they are sure to bring their impressive sound to the beaches of Gulf Shores.

The Revivalists

New Orleans-based rockers The Revivalists fuse an eclectic blend of rock, R&B, soul, folk and funk into a sound that can only be described as unique. Although they were formed from a chance encounter, it is evident that more than just sheer luck has put this band on the radar.

The Struts

The classic rock style and big, bright vocals these English rockers bring to the stage make for a performance you can’t help but sing and dance along to. On the heels of their latest release, Everybody Wants, there’s no doubt that their performance will be unapologetically rock ‘n’ roll.

Shaky Knees 2016: Craig Finn X Vinyl Mag

Posted on May 17, 2016July 6, 2016 by Camren Skelton

If there’s one thing to learn from Craig Finn, it’s how to weave an intriguing story. While the Hold Steady frontman knows what it’s like to rev up an audience as a loud rock band, he appeals to the more mellow side of things as a solo artist. We sat down with Finn following his Friday set at Shaky Knees to talk inspiration, Purple Rain and the importance of telling a story through rock ‘n’ roll.

Vinyl Mag: So have you played Shaky Knees before?

Craig Finn: Yeah I played with Hold Steady in 2014, had a really good time then. I’ve never seen so many guitars at a festival, it kind of feels like nice as a rock ‘n’ roll band to feel like it’s a rock fest.

VM: Are you gonna check out any other sets while you’re here?

CF: Well, we have to get to Nashville tonight but we played at an after party last night and I saw Beach Slang, and we have a ton of friends here, so that’s been fun.

VM: So what was the transition like from going as a band with the Hold Steady to going into a solo career?

CF: You know there’s ups and downs to both, obviously you have the camaraderie with a band, a history, you have different side jokes and all that. But the cool thing is I write so much. The solo thing is able to work on my schedule a lot more. If I want to record two songs, I’m going to get who’s available to try and record with me, rather than try to make everything work for all, or get schedules with all different people. And also the solo thing allows me to play with different people, under the umbrella of the solo thing so that’s really rewarding and helpful. So there’s great parts to both, I just sort of like getting to flex two different muscles.

VM: So in the future do you see yourself branching out into a solo-only career or do you want to stay with the Hold Steady?

CF: Well we already have a couple shows with the Hold Steady in the fall, but we haven’t played in 18 months or so, so right now I’m concentrating on the solo thing. I’m trying to do, I think it will probably be a mix of everything. My first band Lifter Puller played a show last summer. So I feel like it’s just all the things I do. I’m hoping to do a different type of writing. So that’s kind of my idea of where it goes. But I think now that I have the solo thing there will always be the solo thing. It’s one of the reasons I wanted to do it, you can’t break up with yourself. Like my next record could be electronic, but it’s still Craig Finn. And then it’s like you’re still building a body of work.

VM: So do you think your audience as a solo artist is different than the Hold Steady? Or was there a lot of crossover?

CF: I think it’s quite honestly a lot of the same people. Hopefully you grow into, and some of the tours I’ve done in the last year have grown. I went out with Jason Isbell and Heartless Bastards and certainly met a lot of people at those shows. That’s always encouraging. But you’re also getting people who were at the Hold Steady. Hold Steady is a lot louder rocking band, so some people are disappointed they aren’t going to be able to throw beer in the air, but hopefully those people are also getting more mellow as I am, so hopefully it’s at least the Hold Steady people.

VM: It’s nice to have a good mix.

CF: Yeah, I mean I hope it will appeal to people of all ages. And we’ve done a lot more shows with the solo thing that are seated shows, which is kind of nice, a different energy, and hopefully it will appeal to a different group.

VM: Yeah, you get to play a lot of different types of venues I guess.

CF: Yeah, we did Lincoln Center in February and I did a lot of small theaters with Jason Isbell. Just kind of different. Again, it’s like flexing a muscle. Playing down south with Jason is a lot different than playing Chicago with the Hold Steady. Playing Bristol, Tennessee, that was a really small town in the south and no one knew who I was and that’s cool, that’s a challenge. You’ve got to be funny and you’ve got to try to charm them a little bit.

VM: So to someone who’s never heard your music before, how would you describe it?

CF: I would say it’s rock, with a focus on storytelling. Cause I think that’s one of the defining things that my songs are—stories.

VM: I like that. Do you pull inspiration from your own experiences?

CF: Yeah I do, I think we all do. I think novelists—I forget who said it, someone said “there’s one hero in every novel and that’s the author.” Gregory Dunn said that. But when I write, it’s myself but it’s also stories. And books. Like reading novels, cause I still just read, going on tour, traveling, walking around, looking in a house, and saying ‘what happens in there?’ Picking up a story, trying to entertain myself.

VM: So what has been your favorite venue to play at, in all the time you’ve been touring?

CF: So I’m from Minneapolis, and First Avenue is the club there, and it’s not only that it’s my hometown, but I think if you ask me, and most people would say that for a club this size, that and the 9:30 club in D.C. are probably the two best. But especially, First Avenue is where Purple Rain was filmed. And so there’s a lot of nostalgia, and it’s also my home town. But also I just think it’s the best club, and now that Prince has left us there’s a special nostalgia. I watched Purple Rain in 1984 when it came out, and then I watched it for the first time in full last week—it’s so good. I thought it was terrible when I was 13. But now I love it. I guess I’m in a sympathetic mood. It’s bizarre, but it’s entertaining,

VM: Yeah, seeing it from a new perspective of him not being here anymore.

CF: Yeah it’s very melodramatic. It’s not real feminist I have to admit. When they put the girl in the dumpster…

VM: Yeah it definitely has some bizarre moments. Well that’s about all I have for you, but is there anything else you want to share with Vinyl readers?

CF: No, I think we’re good. Just thanks for having me.

VM: Thanks for talking to us, and good luck on the rest of your tour.

Shaky Knees 2016: Kaleo X Vinyl Mag

Posted on May 17, 2016May 17, 2016 by Camren Skelton

With their brilliant blend of blues, folk and country, Kaleo took America by storm last year when they arrived on the festival scene. After great success in their native country, the four-piece Icelandic band moved their sound to Austin, TX and was met with an equally receptive audience. Vinyl Mag sat down with Kaleo frontman JJ Julius Son to talk inspiration, audience and an exciting new album coming out next month.

Vinyl Mag: So you guys are from Iceland, and have been a big hit in the U.S. so far, gotten a pretty big following. Are there any key cities you want to hit?

JJ: Good question, I think we have probably played almost every city. I think we played soon, every state pretty much. The past year we’ve really just been touring pretty much. But a lot of great cities that we loved. Nashville is a big favorite. San Diego. New York is always fun. Chicago.

VM: And you guys are living in Austin now, how is that?

JJ: Yeah, Austin’s a great music city. We wish we had more time there, cause we’re constantly on tour so we don’t really spend much time there. But maybe in the future.

VM: So how was the transition from the Icelandic market to the American market?

JJ: It’s a huge transition, cause Iceland is a country of 300,000 people and America is 300 and something million. So it’s very different and you know, long drives. But every state is different, every city is different. And I think that’s one of the qualities we like.

VM: Would you say that your audience is pretty similar in both countries or do you have a different following?

JJ: No I would say they are similar. We see now that it’s more and more people from all ages in the U.S. And that was always the case back home, so we’re delighted it still crosses over to America as well.

VM: Right, appeals across the spectrum. So to someone who has never heard your music before, how would you describe your sound?

JJ: I would describe it as diverse, dynamic, soulful.

VM: And you guys have a new album coming out next month?

JJ: Yes, June 10 – very excited.

VM: What can fans expect to hear?

JJ: I would say it’s very much, to kind of go with the vision that I had which is diverse, and you’ll hear that. It’s a kind of concept album. It’s called A/B, so side A, think of it as a vinyl, side A is very much rock ‘n’ roll, blues, and then side B has more balance and softer stuff, like folky. And you can label these things into all kinds of genres and stuff, but yeah it’s gonna be diverse, definitely.

VM: So this is your debut album for the U.S.

JJ: So we did release an album back in Iceland that was only released in Iceland, so you can call it a debut album, well outside of Iceland. I think they are calling it a debut album in the U.S.

VM: And after Shaky Knees, what are your plans?

JJ: I have to catch a flight I think in an hour, but we have a festival in Austin and then we have a show in Houston, and then we have Hangout Fest.

VM: Staying busy! Have you ever done Hangout before?

JJ: We did last year, lots of fun. Right now it’s obviously festival season which is fun. And then this summer we’ll be mostly touring, and then we go back to Iceland for a few weeks, which will be nice. See some family. And yeah, that’s kind of the summer.

VM: Do you play any shows when you go back to Iceland?

JJ: Yeah, we’re planning on doing one concert when we go back.

VM: Well I don’t have anything else for you, but is there anything else you want to share with Vinyl readers?

JJ: Yeah, check out the album. It’s a vinyl concept, A and B.

VM: So great excuse to buy it on vinyl, right?

JJ: Always, yes.

Shaky Knees 2016: The Hip Abduction X Vinyl Mag

Posted on May 13, 2016May 20, 2016 by Camren Skelton

Paul Simon’s Graceland album meets Bob Marley–at a dance party in 2016. Oh, and they’re both really high. That’s how David New of The Hip Abduction would describe their reggae, world music sound–or, at least how he would describe it to your grandma. With inspiration stemming from the band’s immersion outside the U.S., The Hip Abduction has a sound that epitomizes the bright, beachy days of summer and takes you to a place far away from home. We sat down with New prior to the band’s performance at Shaky Knees to discuss travel, inspiration and the experimental quality that makes their latest album–Gold Under the Glow–so intriguing.

Vinyl Mag: So how long have you guys been playing music together?

David New: 2010, 2011 is when I guess the official Hip Abduction got started. I mean I’ve been doing the solo thing for a little while. But I think 2010.

VM: So I love Gold Under the Glow, and like your other stuff it has kind of a Jamaican, reggae vibe…what’s the inspiration behind incorporating this sound into your music?

DN: Well I lived and traveled in the Bahamas and the Caribbean a lot, during college after college, I actually worked at a field station teaching sailing and marine biology for a little while and all the stations we listed to were from Havana and Jamaica and I really got into island and Caribbean music. And I traveled to Central America a little bit. So that all comes from my time spent there. And we all individually have lived outside of the country for a little while so it’s in the vein of all of our music. And all the guys.

VM: It’s a really cool sound. I feel like you guys have a unique sound, very beachy. So if you could describe Hip Abduction to someone who has never heard of you before, what would you say?

DN: Well if we’re talking to grandma it’s different then when I’d talk to someone in their 20s or something. But to grandma, I’d say Paul Simon, Graceland album meets Bob Marley at a dance party in 2016.

VM: I like it.

DN: Really high, by the way. They’re both really high.

VM: Even better. How has your writing process evolved, and what was your process like for Gold Under the Glow?

DN: Well I guess it starts when I first wrote a song, when I was like 25. But I was really into Paul Simon’s Graceland album when I was a kid. My mom listened to that. And then I studied a lot of the musicians that were on that album—South African and West Africa. And I just evolved from there. And I was in Africa for a little while, listening. And then we released a couple albums that were influenced by music outside of the country and then this album, we started to listen to more indie-pop, indie-rock, bands like St. Lucia, Vacationer, you know modern, alternative bands. Daft Punk, I’ve been really getting into synth pop and dance. And I love fucking around with old synths, like analog synth pedals and stuff. So what I’ve been listening to has influenced the more electronic sound, a little more four on the floor dance stuff, but the world is still there. We may not be playing reggae music, or West African traditional music, but it still takes someone to a special place, the island or the same place that maybe an old record would take someone, or any reggae music or West African music. World music in general.

VM: So would you say that this album was more experimental than your past?

DN: Yeah, I feel like this is our first, who we are, kind of album. Other ones were like, let’s try to replicate this old sound of the 60s, you know like a lot of bands do, trying to replicate old, trying to do what bands in the past have done. But this one was like, I wanted to move forward, and this one is us. It sounds like us, no one is really combining these sounds with these sounds, this particular feel. But there’s a lot of white dudes from southern Cali playing reggae music, or bands playing traditional West African music. So this is our own thing.

VM: So with Shaky Knees coming up, do you guys have any pre-show rituals or routines?

DN: No, we’ve got to massage the keyboard player. He’s got to get a massage. His back is killing him right now, so have to give him a little massage. We like to chill, I mean there’s no—I think a lot of people think that backstage is crazy, party and shots and all that but it’s not really like that at all. I think when you’re trying to do this for a career and day in and day out just try to take it easy. Have some organic foods and juices and feel good, get some good sleep and take maybe a shot before the show. That’s pretty much it. I mean rituals—no, no jumping upside down or any chants.

VM: Nothing crazy?

DN: No, maybe we need some though.

VM: What’s your favorite thing to perform live? Do you have any favorite covers?

DN: Yeah, right now we’re doing one of our own instrumental versions, which is a drum jam. I’ve been taking some drum lessons and we jam a little bit. And then we cover Marvin Gaye’s “Sexual Healing”, but it’s a tropical house version. So we’re rocking that on this tour and it’s one of those songs like, we have to stop playing this? Cause every tour you have to do a different cover, but I don’t want to stop playing it. So I still love it, and we’ve played it for four months now. And that gets the crowd excited.

VM: Yeah, I’m sure it will be a big hit at the festival.

DN: Yeah, we’re going on early and it’s gonna be hot in Hotlanta, but hopefully people can find some shade.

VM: You have quite a few tour dates coming up after Shaky Knees, so is there any city or venue you’re excited to play?

DN: You know, these are all new to us pretty much. We just started touring, we’re relatively new to the scene. And 2015 is our first—I was talking to the guys and we’ve done 14 new cities that I’ve never been to in my life in just a couple months. So you know we love New York City, we have a pretty big following there. We’re playing with Umphrey’s McGee a little bit, so I think it’s more about, we love the festivals, we love going to new cities and new markets. The Hamilton in D.C. is fun, but I have no answer for you, I just like them all.

VM: Well you get to see a lot of new places, so I’m sure that’s exciting.

DN: It is, yesterday we went white water rafting and mountain biking, and zip lining in Charlotte, and now we’re heading to the foothills of West Virginia, and we’re doing a hike, up to 7,000 feet I believe, so pretty excited about that. It’s nice to have days off, that’s for sure. But yeah, traveling is fun in doses, if you get enough days off.