Interview by Suanne Strider
Who are your main musical influences?
I have lots. When it comes to lyrics, Brandi Carlisle and Tallest Man on Earth are super influential. Brandi writes like she is telling a story. She draws you right in because you can relate. I love that in a writer. Tallest Man on Earth’s lyrics are pure poetry and he can create the most beautiful imagery in one breath. Musically, I absolutely adore Slow Club, Robyn, St. Vincent, and Lucius. I just can’t get enough of that ambient poppy synthy sound. Ideally, I would like to incorporate all of my favorite qualities of these artists in my own sound.
What is your favorite album of all time?
I wish I could be one of those people who have a favorite album of all time but I really don’t. I just have CDs that I leave in my car and listen to on repeat for months on end. Recently that has been Wildewomen by Lucius and Ghost Boy by Sanders Bohlke. I can’t get enough of either.
Who is your favorite band of all time?
Man I wish I could give you the name of some cool old band that is my favorite but my taste in music seems to change with the seasons. I can tell you that my favorite band right now is Lucius. I saw them live a few months ago. Best show I have ever seen. So right now they are my favorite band of all time. Ask me in a few months and I will probably have a new one.
What do you think it is about Mississippi that turns out so many great artists (of all kinds—not just musicians)?
Mississippi is earnest. It is a state that has to battle with negative stereotypes, poverty, and a pretty rough past. Because of that, Mississippi is constantly trying move forward and is always trying to better itself. There is beauty in that. There is beauty in the struggle to succeed. That beauty can be pretty damn inspiring for anyone, not just artists.
Would you describe Oxford as a “mecca” for artists?
Well I think the art community here is something special. Oxford is so concentrated with writers, musicians, photographers, poets, and painters that you can’t help but be exposed to the arts if you live here. What makes it a “mecca” though is that every person in the art community is supportive. Positive support makes you want to keep creating.
How would you describe your music?
That is always a hard one to answer. I don’t think I could narrow it down to a specific sound.
