Image by: Inkblots
Receiving praise from BBC Radio Manchester, band KOSMONAUTS has been described as “anthemic, uplifting, lots of energy, classic Manchester sound”. Evolving from their atmospheric direction of single ‘Lady Lovesick’, they take a more somber direction this time around with their latest offerings. If one thing remains, thankfully you can still expect badass anthemic energy with their latest singles ‘Mr. Nice Guy’ and ‘What Did You Expect’.
We chatted with guitarist and band member Jake Pendlebury about the band’s new direction.
Looking back, what were some of your earliest entries into music appreciation? And music production?
I first had a real interest in music after watching a film about Robert Johnson called Crossroads, which peaked my interest in playing the guitar. A few years later a friend of my dad’s was building a recording studio in his house which fascinated me. I was intrigued by what all the different buttons did and how it all works together.
Take us through your songwriting process. Are there any particular steps you take when putting music together?
Our songs used to begin as demos from one of the band members which would consist of an idea written outline of most aspects of the song: drum patterns, basslines, chordal work, and lead melodies. As effective as this was, it became difficult to unhear the previously written material making it difficult to develop. Our latest release ‘What Did You Expect’ was written collectively in an hour during a rehearsal, which meant we had a free-flowing songwriting process that hopefully can be heard in the song.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
I still haven’t really figured this out yet, it just kind of happens out of the blue so it’s just about catching it at the right time. It tends a really enjoyable practice when you need an emotional outlet, but I wouldn’t say it’s consistent enough to be either.
As a musician, it becomes apparent that there is a huge difference between the art and the business. Is there anything about the music scene that you would personally change?
A lot! Going back to our newest release, it’s our statement to the people who have all the advice in the world yet have never been on a stage, whose opinion seems to matter more than ours. This is something we all feel very strongly about and just wished these business executives have more respect for the artists; we respect their roles and yet we get so replaceable.
Studio work and music creation or performing and interacting with a live audience, which do you prefer?
Both as enjoyable as each other in their own rights, but studio work takes a slight advantage for me. There’s something about getting to tinker and perfect every little detail.
What is the most memorable response you have had to your music?
The first gig I played with the lads in Manchester was at a sold-out headline show at the Star and Garter, a totally unforgettable night.
What’s on your current playlist?
My go to’s recently have been Anderson Paak, FKJ, Tom Misch, and Sleep Token.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you in the near future?
A new release or two… some other things lined up but unfortunately up in the air due to Covid.
Famous last words?
Let’s make sure we’ve got somewhere to see each other once all this is over : https://bit.ly/30LeVVl
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