Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with unsigned UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with unsigned London singer Art Block to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
London, England. Probably about 8 years ago at an open mic in East London called Cable Street Electric. There were some inspirational musicians there, some of whom popped in from nearby Jamboree, a folk venue now sadly closed. I used to write fiction and Art Block was the name of a novel about a dystopian future!
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
Radiohead and Jeff Buckley were big influences on my songwriting. Recently it has been bands like Bear’s Den whom I really love, especially live.
How would you describe your sound?
Alt-folk is the usual moniker I use. There’s definitely a classic alt-rock, acoustic influence there.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
Brother. No particular influence although the guitar parts remind me of Coldplay. Dreamy indie vibes.
What’s your local music scene like?
It was amazing until Covid arrived. Local pubs such as The George where Amy Winehouse, Pete Doherty and Anna Calvi once played.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
I plan to release a new EP in the summer produced by Ian Barter. The second single will be released at the end of May/early June.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
Kygo, Sasha Sloan or LDR but I’m not famous enough.
Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
Yes, once when I played at the Troubadour in London, I was approached by a man in the audience. He said he worked for MTV and I thought have I finally made it? So this is how it happens. When I saw his card though, I had misheard, it was NTV a Bangladeshi cable channel that featured acoustic music!
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
My music is intended to heal others. I hope the lyrics and music provide comfort to others.
You can find out more about Art Block on his website or via Bandcamp, Facebook, Instagram, SoundCloud, Spotify, TikTok, Twitter or YouTube.
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