Jo Hamilton // Interview
Submitted by Alice Sutherland-Hawes on August 17, 2010 – 11:05 amNo Comment
Jo Hamilton is a singer/song writer who has got her hands on the only Air Piano in the world. NEN went to find out what attracted her to this amazing instrument.
In the lead up to releasing “Gown”, you recorded short films of yourself touring throughout Europe and used them as EPKs. Would you recommend fellow musicians prepare similar projects to boost anticipation of forth-coming releases?
Little visual nuggets are great for getting the taste buds watering.
What interested you about Omer Yosha and his Air piano?
Visually, I found the Airpiano attractive for its simplicity, and then discovered I could trigger any sound I wanted through it, which is just what I was looking for.
In the past you have been compared to the likes of Imogen Heap and Joanna Newsom, would you cite them as an influence for you?
I discovered Imogen Heap fairly recently, and really enjoy how independent and creative she is. Admittedly I don’t know much of Joanna Newsom’s material, but she has gorgeous eyes, a unique voice and creative story lines, from what I’ve heard. Independence is inspiring in itself.
A couple of weeks ago you played an unusual performance in a treehouse in Birmingham. Do you prefer playing in venues slightly different from your typical clubs or theaters?
Every venue is so different, and I do enjoy the challenges of whatever situation comes about. The Treehouse was unplugged with a backdrop of creaking tree and heavy rain, which was quite magical, but I also love playing at big venues like the Union Chapel in London, which are built for sound…
What made you want to write songs?
They’re like a musical journal. A way for me to remember.
Who is your favorite artist you’ve played with/supported?
Damien Rice. He’s a great communicator, and very funny.
Where is your favourite place that you’ve played live?
The Birmingham Town Hall. I could really just sing so dynamically and it was all present and audible.
What prompted you to pursue songwriting instead of going down a more classical route?
Singing and writing songs is where my heart has been. A classical route didn’t really come into my head… Though through studying the viola, I feel I can write string parts, which is extremely useful.
Aswell as being a fully-fledged performer and artist in your own right, you’ve also contributed to a number of other artist’s albums and projects. Who would you like to work with again?
Collaborating with new people opens up different avenues creatively, so I like to keep the doors open as much as possible.
Who would you like to work with who you haven’t yet worked with?
Ah, perhaps Scott Matthews, or Tom Waites, or John Cale…
Facebook comments: