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Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with unsigned UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with unsigned Norwich singer Lisa Redford to find out more…

Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I grew up in Norwich and became obsessed with music from a really young age. My parents are also huge music lovers and have a very eclectic taste which has certainly influenced me. I began playing the guitar at University and writing songs a few years before that.

Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
I’ve always been particularly fascinated with song writing and artists that have inspired me include Neil Young, Neal Casal, Tom Petty, Kate Bush, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, Kings of Convenience, Josh Rouse, Carole King, Sufjan Stevens and Nick Drake.

Influences and favourite artists now include First Aid Kit, Kacey Musgraves, Courtney Marie Andrews. I’m also a big indie music fan and love electronic artists such as Hot Chip and Chrvches.

How would you describe your sound?
My music has been described as heartfelt and melodic acoustic music which blends country, folk and Americana and I really like that description!

What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
My latest release is an EP called Edge of Love and it’s been received so well. I’ve felt overwhelmed by all the glowing reviews in magazines and music blogs, as well as the airplay on various BBC shows.

Edge of Love has 5 self-written songs that are a blend of styles that I’m inspired by: Americana, country, folk, soul and pop. There’s a real warmth to it with a mix of band tracks and acoustic songs. Produced by Jose McGill from The Vagaband it has really creative arrangements and instrumentation including dobro, pedal steel, acoustic and electric guitars, cello and piano.

I always write from the heart and these songs are no exception. Lyrically it’s heartfelt and bittersweet; exploring aspects of love and relationships with a theme of letting go. This includes realising how hard it is and also letting yourself go; whether you know you need to, or letting yourself go emotionally – letting down your guard, even if there is the risk of getting hurt.

I released a new single from the EP on 15 November. It’s a ballad called I Just Can’t Forget which has more of a country soul influence and sound. It features harmonies, piano, pedal steel guitar and electric guitar. It’s available on all digital platforms as well as my Bandcamp store.

What’s your local music scene like?
I’m from Norwich and the city has a really active creative scene. There are many lovely venues and lots of brilliant artists and bands. We just had a brand new festival called Wild Paths which was headlined by the wonderful Jose Gonzalez and various venues across the city had live music all weekend. I write an arts column for excellent local website All Things Norfolk where I review and preview various local gigs and festivals and I also host a radio show on Future Radio in Norwich where I play a mix of indie, electronic, Americana, pop, folk and local music.

What do you have planned for the next 12 months? Any albums or festivals?
I will be continuing to promote Edge of Love by playing festivals and gigs. I’m looking to tour more as I played some lovely festivals and gigs this year including Red Rooster in Suffolk.

Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
I really admire songwriters such as Lori McKenna, Beth Nielsen Chapman and Liz Rose. They’re great storytellers who create timeless lyrics and melodies of quality. It would be my dream to co-write songs with professional songwriters in Nashville.

Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
The one that comes to mind is a gig I had on a train. We were promoting a brand new line but it was very uncomfortable standing by the doors and performing as passengers got on and off!

What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
I’m a professional vocal coach and guitar tutor – so if you’re in Norwich and fancy a lesson get in touch!

You can find out more about Lisa on her website or via Apple Music, Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, SoundCloud, Spotify, Twitter or YouTube.