Where are you based?
Brighton, UK.
Where do you work? What do you do?
I like to do a bit of everything. I’m not gonna lie! I work as a Digital Product Manager at Republic of Music, where I mainly handle digital distribution, timelines, operational issues, etc.
I also work with Slow Dance, an independent collective/label based in London. I also manage a couple of bands on the side and occasionally put on some events at the Windmill in Brixton.
What are you listening to?
There are so many incredible new bands coming out of the scene at the moment! Minor Conflict’s latest track has been on repeat since it came out. Rosie Alena, Lynks and Katy J Pearson’s latest releases are also incredible. New Folly Group, English Teacher, PVA, and the list could go on forever!
How do you discover new music?
I’m lucky enough to work and have friends in the industry, so most recommendations come from them and my flatmate!
Even though it’s a classic, I wouldn’t know about most releases if it wasn’t for magazines such as So Young and DIY. And finally, my favourite way is showing up to random gigs/gigs I’ve been recommended and see if I enjoy the vibe. I’ve discovered the best bands in the most random situations, so I strongly recommend them.
What formats do you usually listen to? LP, CD, Cassette, Digital, Streaming Services? Why?
I’m a CD enthusiast, I’d say. I still actively buy CDs; the last time I listened to one was yesterday (new Wet Leg, it’s great!). I’m looking forward to shifting to vinyl, but at the moment, I don’t have the space or means to build the set-up I’d love, but it’s going to happen one day!
“I’m a CD enthusiast I’d say. I still actively buy CDs, I think the last time I listened to one was yesterday”
Where do you do most of your music listening?
I’m the sort of person who needs a musical background in whatever I do. When I work, when I commute to London – which is quite often! -when I shower, when I cook and so on.
How do you find and listen to pre-release music?
I think my situation is quite different, as working in music distribution allows me to listen to a lot of pre-release music directly from artists and labels. Other than that, I’d say online radios mainly.
What are your frustrations with listening to music digitally? Any benefits?
I think the main benefit that the entire world can agree on is how practical digital music is. We don’t need extra devices like we did when I was growing up (iPods, etc.), and we can access thousands and thousands of tracks with one click. For me, the main frustration is being aware of how unfair streaming services are towards musicians, so I guess there’s that sense of guilt.
How do you keep track of everything you are listening to?
This is a really good question! I think the answer for me is playlists. I make tons of playlists depending on the mood, when or where I discover certain songs, on what occasion etc. I’d be lost without my playlists!
Do you tip other people off to new music? How?
According to my friends, I do it way too much! I guess I just really like paying attention to the vibe of the song. Also, I associate people and faces with tracks all the time! If I discover a song or artist a friend might like, I send them a link straight away.
Anything you want to “promote”?
There are so many exciting new releases coming! Watch out for an incredible Italian artist called Mela Femmina, she’s about to release her first single soon. In general, support your local scene, go down to your mates’ gigs, it’s magical!
