Hey OLI, thanks for taking the time to talk to us today. Could you tell us a little known fact about yourself?

I panicked when asked this because I don’t think I have a little known fact…..unless you count my hatred of Parsley. I could probably do a TED talk on why it shouldn’t exist.

What first inspired you to capture that sense of stillness in your album, When It All Goes Quiet?

I had a really specific image in my head of coming home after a night out, no one is home and you’re completely alone with your thoughts. It’s dark out, there is silence and you just feel calm. I think a lot of people know that feeling, and it became the whole atmosphere of the album.

How did you strike that balance between intimate songwriting and cinematic arrangements?

Normally I start with a theme or feeling. I like to know what the song it going to put across, even if I don’t know the sound yet. After that it’s pretty much a free for all! It could be music, lyrics, even just a short melody. I’d say the balance comes from letting the intimate part lead and then building the cinematic drama around it.

Growing up between New Jersey and London, how has that transatlantic background influenced your sound?

It’s had huge effect! The US has given me a strong love for organic instruments, like a classic drum set or a good guitar solo. A few of my songs definitely carry that Americana feel. At the same time, London gave me an alternative edge, which comes through in songs like Cry and Don’t Give Up.

You have such varied sonic influences from jazz to 00s indie to cinematic strings, so how did all these genres come together?

I love too many types of music to pick one. Especially when certain genres lend themselves better to different storylines. Something about a moody, sad song with cinematic strings is so satisfying. If it’s more positive, then proper drums and guitar make it feel like it’s driving forward.

How do these deeply introspective songs translate to a live setting?

I want keep the intimacy when I’m performing but I also want the sound to really fill the room. I’m quite serious about soundcheck, it can make or break a show! Some songs stay exactly the same on stage, others get cool new arrangements. All I want is for the audience to get lost in the music, or even just lost in their own thoughts for a while.

What’s next for the project?

More moody music! I’ve got new songs on the way and I’m filming 3 music videos. I just want to keep building on this world I’ve started with the album.

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