Irish lads The Academic are one of our favourite new bands here at One on One, so we sat down with them to ask a few questions about their new single, touring their homeland and playing in Arcade Fire:
How would you describe your music to someone who doesn’t know you?Â
‘Guitar-driven indie-rock with catchy hooks and melodies.
You’ve just released your new single, Northern Boy – how would you describe it?
‘Northern Boy was a track from our debut EP, Loose Friends. We never planned it as a release, but the song seemed to resonate with a lot of people, so we decided to put it out there. We probably look at it as an uplifting and hopeful song about a renegade romance.
You’ve also just finished a tour of Ireland – how was it?
‘It was fun! We’d never played a headline show in Limerick City before, so it was exciting to be playing there. If an Irish audience like you then they’ll let you know… Things can get crazy and intense at times, and we’ve had some of our best experiences gigging at home.
You’ve got a busy summer of festivals planned – do you prefer playing festivals or your own headline shows?
‘Both have their pros and cons; who doesn’t love playing festivals in glorious summertime weather? Then again, you feel a lot more organised at a headline show where there’s no rush to soundcheck and set up.
Are you looking forward to returning to Barn on the Farm Festival?
‘Yes, definitely! We had a seriously fun time last year, and the location and the vibe was amazing. We’re also looking forward to another interband football match between Amber Run, the Hudson Taylor crew, and ourselves…
What’s your favourite thing about playing live?
‘Seeing people you’ve never met before singing your songs back to you.
Out of every gig you’ve ever played, which one is your favourite?
‘It’s hard for us all to agree, but probably our recent headline show in Vicar Street in Dublin. It was our biggest headline show to date and it was a surreal experience for us.
Can you talk us through your usual songwriting process (if you have one)?
‘We’d bring an idea for a song to the rehearsal room, and then we’d all give our opinions and suggestions on each other’s parts and try to make the song come together.
Which song of yours are you most proud of?
‘That’s like asking ‘which child of yours is your favourite?’! We’re proud of them all.
Out of every song ever recorded, which do you wish you’d written?
‘Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen.
If you could be in any other band, which would it be?
‘Arcade Fire, because you could say that you play in one of the best live bands out there. Any instrument would do – they’ve got loads. I’d probably play the concertina or something ridiculous like that…’
Describe yourself in three words?
‘Four strapping gentlemen.
