• BETTY WHO • • JON BELLION • BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB •

VARIANCETHE SIGHTS + SOUNDS LOVE

40 TO WATCH FOR IN 2014 BASTILLE t PHANTOGRAM JAMES VINCENT MCMORROW THE FUTURESOUNDS ISSUE VOICES THAT WILL REIGN THIS YEAR

VOL. 5, ISSUE 1 | FEB_WINTER 2014

AVAILBLE NOW AT SKULLCANDY.COM @SKULLCANDY / FEATURING KAI OTTON

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Annie Clark foreshadows her new with this catchy tune catchy this with album new her foreshadows Clark Annie

"Digital Witness" "Digital

ST. VINCENT ST.

YOU CREATE THE PLAYLIST PLAYLIST THE CREATE YOU

by @MissBehavinC by by @AllenOVCH by

“Heartbeat” “Money on My Mind” Mind” My on “Money

MATTHEW MAYFIELD MATTHEW SMITH SAM

by @6n6challenge by by @JK1KJ by

zz @jenryannyc by

“#88” “Jungle” “Battle Cry” “Battle

LO-FANG AMBASSADORS X & COMMONS N JAMIE FEAT. HAZE ANGEL

by @mardycum by by @tylersduke by by @Jedshepherd by

“Carry Me” “Carry “telegraph ave. (‘Oakland’ by Lloyd)” by (‘Oakland’ ave. “telegraph “Collapse”

CLUB BICYCLE BOMBAY CHILDISH GAMBINO CHILDISH VANCOUVER SLEEP CLINIC SLEEP VANCOUVER

WINTER2014 MIXTAPE

by @AleksaConic by by @OJandCigs by by @AlainUlises by

“Hard Out Here” Out “Hard “Black Out Days” Out “Black “Gold”

LILY ALLEN LILY PHANTOGRAM JAMES VINCENT MCMORROW VINCENT JAMES FIRSTTHINGSFIRST PHOTO BY KIM ERLANDSEN

You” shot up the blogosphere last summer when video of a marriage proposal utilizing the song went viral. She’s since signed to RCA Records and is working on her major label debut. Also on the roster are X Ambassadors, the little band that could from Ithaca, N.Y. After teaming up with , who can do no wrong, in our opinion, the ris- ing act is expected to release a full-length this year. And based on everything we’ve heard so far, these guys will only continue to climb. Bastille, the British band whose “Pompeii” came out s of nowhere and began its epic rise on American radio, q is preparing to hit the U.S. with a new tour and more music in the works. Meanwhile, up-and-coming singer- AFTER WHAT HAD of the most-anticipated new Jon Bellion is proving he’s one to watch, with to be a landmark year in music releases, which include Kanye stunning singles and breathtaking videos, the writer and pop culture, it’s hard to West, Foo Fighters, Solange, St. behind and ’s “The Monster” is quietly imagine topping such extraor- Vincent, Grimes, Wye Oak and prepping to take the world by storm on his own. dinary reunions, albums, televi- so many more. Back for round two, and likely their biggest moment sion moments and cultural In this, our FutureSounds yet, are Bombay Bicycle Club and Phantogram, both events. Despite the raised bar, Issue, we’re highlighting some with brand new albums on the horizon and much more 2014 is already looking rather of the voices you need to hear, perfected sound. While we’ve been covering these acts shiny itself. such as Bahamas and Geog- for years, they’re finally seeing their star rise. And this is While a Beyoncé-like surprise rapher. We also sat down and going to be a big year for both of them. album may or may not be in talked with some of the talent Also back for his second go is Irish singer-songwriter the forecast this year, there whose names and voices will James Vincent McMorrow, with a brand new album are plenty of other records on reign in the coming year. Some and a tour to support it. It’s already one of the best LPs the schedule. From newcom- of them are new, and some of this year, and we expect big things from him this year. ers like Sam Smith, SZA and them are returning fresh, new Then there’s Angel Haze, nominated for BBC’s Sound Vancouver Sleep Clinic, to The energy and brand new projects of 2013 last year and arguably one of the hottest rap- Black Keys and ’s that will catapult them into the pers—male or female—of her generation. But then she much-teased new sets, it will spotlight. leaked her own album and put a whole series of events be a busy year. And in this new Among the new faces is Betty in motion. So what comes next? issue, we’re running down some Who, whose “Somebody Loves Read on, discover and enjoy.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 5 CONTENTS 36 22 THE SOUNDS YOU NEED TO HEAR FUTURESOUNDS THE MOST EXCITINGMUSICOF2014 40 ALBUMS TO WATCH FOR VARIANCE Winter_2014, Vol. 5, Issue 1

Editorial Director Jonathan Robles

Managing Editors Rachel Faylene & Weston Shepherd

Editor-at-Large Amanda Morad

Features Editors Merlyn Hamilton & Emily Hulseberg

Editorial Assistants Laurie Tomlinson & Morgan Edwards

Contributing Writers Katie Herald Aaron Lachman John Mouser Abby Olsen Eli Provenzano Steven Totten Edwin Wilson

Contributing Photographers & Artists Johan Bauwens Sam Boise Greg Chow Dustin Cohen Chad Cooper Dan DeSlover Emma J Doyle Kim Erlandsen Dave Gillespie Jessie Jenkins Nicolas Joubard Shervin Lainez Colin Lane Michael Lavine Derrick Lee Olivia Malone Zackery Michael Brian Nevins Benson Ramsey David Roemer Mark Runyon WINTER MIXTAPE (PLAYLIST) 04 Bobby Quillard BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB 10 George Salisbury THE CHAINSMOKERS 12 Victoria Smith BETTY WHO Alex Stern 14 X AMBASSADORS 16 Misha Taylor PHOTO DIARIES 18 Andrew Whitton SWITCHFOOT 30 Laura Wilson JON BELLION 50 Mike Windle MASON JENNINGS 52 Amy ERINN WESTBROOK 54 Web Production & Design REALITY CHECK 56 Nicholas Clayton JP Jones Jonathan Robles

Project Development Bryan Norris THE SIGHTS + SOUNDS YOU LOVE

PHOTO: FUTURESOUNDS PICK ALFIE JURVANEN www.variancemagazine.com(AKA BAHAMAS) BY DAVE GILLESPIE PHANTOGRAM ANGEL HAZE 32 The electropop duo is returning with a 40 Poised to be one of 2014’s brightest, the brand new album & bold career moves young MC broke the rules. Will it pay off?

44 n h hes f raot ucs, the success, British outfit looks ahead breakout of heels the On BASTILLE 46 soul on hisnewLP. Butwhy? He took a left-field turn andMCMORROW poured out his VINCENT JAMES

CONTENTS

PHOTO BY XI WEG BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB

nglish rock outfit Bombay Bicycle Club is set to through some exotic countries with their notably more ex- release their fourth studio album in just five years perimentative new material. on Feb. 4. And for the indie four-piece consisting Although the members of the band are all only 24, their ofE Jack Steadman, Jamie MacColl, Suren de Seram and Ed growth within the last five years has been tremendous. And Nash, their latest album, So Long, See You Tomorrow, is an they’ve built a reputation for constantly releasing diverse, exciting addition to their already extensive library. exciting music and keeps their fans eager for what’s around Variance spoke with guitarist MacColl about the upcoming the corner. release, the evolution of the band and his hopes of further As the tour for the last album, A Different Kind of , Fix popularity in U.S. as the band takes listeners on a journey started to wrap up, writing for the next album began.

10 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM BY EMILY HULSEBERG

ever reason, it just wasn’t working shown growth and progression. I guess,” explains MacColl. “The But MacColl explains that it isn’t demo sounded really great, and something they initially think I know a lot of the time bands about. “I don’t think we’ve ever do get quite obsessed with their really made conscious decisions demos and kind of get a bit of to do that much, to do things ‘demo-itis’ and think, ‘We can that differently with the music.” never sound better than these So Long, See You Tomorrow is an do,’ but we felt at this point— album that will take Bombay to fourth album and quite a lot of a new level among their musical experience, that we could actu- peers. Once known as an indie- ally do it ourselves.” rock band, the new sounds com- And that’s exactly what they ing from these four push them did. Steadman self-produced the dramatically forward, crossing album, and the way the band sees into a more electronic territory. it, they couldn’t have made a - “I do think there is kind of an ter choice. evolution from the previous re- “[We knew] it would be the cord,” explains MacColl. “When best it could be if we were do- we first started messing around ing it ourselves,” says MacColl. with samples and more elec- “So that was quite [an] exciting tronic sounding [sounds], I think thought, and I think [it] kind of a song like ‘Shuffle was the start drove us on more to make the of us experimenting a bit more songs as good as they could be with making a different kind of ourselves. In the past we might music.” have been able to say we [felt] a The band is set to tour the bit stuck with this, like hopefully new album starting in a producer will have an idea, but throughout February, and Mac- we didn’t have the safety net to Coll is excited to get a chance to fall on, so it drove us on a lot.” expand their fan base in the U.S. Without the help or direction as well. “I really love traveling from an outside producer, the around [the States], so it would band made an album that is 100 be nice to do it in a nicer way percent their own. It’s all Bom- than we’ve done in the past,” he bay Bicycle Club. laughs. Of course, the record was great- Still being so young and having ly influenced by Steadman’s trav- practically grown up together, els. “There are some quite promi- MacColl says the band hasn’t nent Bollywood samples on the had any trouble when it comes record,” MacColl explains. “I to creative direction and get- think for anyone that’s ever been ting along. “The most important to India, it is a very musical place thing is that there’s never been an and you’re constantly surrounded argument about the kind of mu- by music there, so I think it’s gen- sic that the band is gonna make. erally quite an inspiring place to That’s the kind of strand that had be as a musician.” run through the whole thing and MacColl says vocalist Steadman left to do MacColl says that while the kept it going I think.” some traveling and writing. He trekked his album doesn’t have a pinpoint way through Holland, Turkey and India, inspiration, Steadman used his with Nash accompanying him for parts of personal journey more than the So Long, See You Tomorrow ar- the trip. Once everyone was back together actual locations as inspiration rives Feb. 4 on . and Steadman was armed with an array of behind the songs he wrote. And The band will tour internation- new songs, it was time to start recording. So ultimately, it impacted the band’s ally before heading to U.S. in the natural next step was to find a producer. own journey. the spring, including dates at “We tried a couple of people and for what- With each release, the band has Coachella.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 11 the chainsmokers

THE BRO-DUCER/DJ DUO TALKS ABOUT TAKING THEIR CAREER TO THE NEXT LEVEL PHOTOS BY SAM BOISE

BY JONATHAN ROBLES

rom the Hype Machine to the club performed across the country, shared the puters’ role in the music, it doesn’t mean scene, DJ-producer duo stage with the biggest names in EDM and they always want robots at the helm. No FThe Chainsmokers seem to have the churned out some of the most incredible disrespect to . And definitely Midas touch when it comes to creating remixes. And they’re only getting started. #nodisrespecttobenaffleck. hot and sweaty mixes that get the party Part of what makes the pair stand out What The Chainsmokers bring to the going. But they’re about to take it to the over many of their counterparts, other EDM culture goes beyond spinning next level. than being a duo, is the authenticity tracks and tweaking synths. With their Despite only working together under they emulate. Sure, is al- hilarious tweets, unmatched fan interac- their current moniker for less than two ready party-friendly, but not all DJs are. tion and high-energy live performance, years, Alex Pall and Drew Taggert have While fans of dance have accepted com- it’s clear why they’re racking up support-

12 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM ers left and right: These guys are actually human. the “It’s definitely challenging in this world, but we try our best to do things that are really inherent to who we are,” says Taggert, sitting down to talk with Variance. “Our social media is really just us posting things that we think are funny or cool, maybe trying to get everybody to pick sides in a really petty disagreement. There’s no filter. And we’re not forcing it or trying to do something chainsmokers from a marketing angle.” While there may not be some giant marketing scheme, the guys are definitely making some cal- culated moves as they develop their own unique brand, although Pall admits it’s difficult at times. “Being patient sucks sometimes,” confesses Pall. “But we found early on what our sound was and we decided to stick to it, stick to our team and our vision. There have been so many styles that come in waves. There was the whole trap thing last spring and now the hardstyle. We’ll see what the next fad is, and the next one. But we’re sticking to our plan and we’ve cultivated a fan base around that, without following whatever the current trend was.” They may not be following trends, but they certainly have their ears to the ground when it comes to picking some of the best artists to zation” of certain genres of music and lowing their popular satirical cut remix, including the likes of Phoenix, Mikky the so-called drug culture is “greatly “#Selfie,” which skyrocketed through Ekko, BANKS, Icona Pop, Smallpools, Daugh- exaggerated and actually unwarrant- the blogosphere, they have more up ter and Say Lou Lou, to name a few. It’s proof ed,” says Pall, continuing: “It’s defi- their sleeves. that two heads are better than one, and they nitely there, but I think EDM gets the “We’re working on another origi- agree. blame for much more than its share nal track for March hopefully,” Tag- “We’re really creative together,” says Pall. of the problems. And a lot of that is gert reveals. “And maybe another “Working with two people, you can get a lot because we have such a fun culture. one around April that we’re pretty more done than when it’s just you by yourself. And that’s the element we’re trying to pumped about.” You always have someone to bounce ideas off of. encourage.” While the guys definitely enjoy cut- It also helps that we trust each other and we can As they move forward, the duo is ting up and having fun, they acknowl- be honest if we really don’t like something.” sticking to their guns and focusing on edge this next phase is really impor- Of course, the duo benefits from having a building their following even more. tant for them. And this year might healthy friendship outside of their working rela- But should the opportunity present bring about some changes as they try tionship. Call it part of their “brand” if you will, itself, they wouldn’t mind a few col- to expand. but while they joke about their “bromance,” laborations either. “We’ve pretty much tapped out the they’re really grateful for it. “It’s a huge reach, but it would be span of where we can go online,” says “Thank God things worked out when we met my dream to work with the guys from Taggert. “Almost every track we re- and decided to do this,” declares Taggert. “It was Miike Snow,” says Taggert, adding lease online goes on HypeM and does great because it was like, ‘We’re actually homies.’ that he believes “they’re some of the really well. But we’re kind of hitting We hit it off immediately and I really think that most creative producers, and the bal- that point where we feel like we’re made all the difference. We think the same things ance that they have between dance reaching out to the same fans over are funny. We think the same girls are hot. We music and almost their own kind of and over again. So we want to partner think the same food is good. There were definite genre, I love that. We’re also big fans with someone, probably a label, so we similarities immediately that helped make the of CHVRCHES and Gram- can push our tracks to the next level. working relationship go smoothly. When you’re mar. And of course, we just did the It’s the logical next step for us, and we constantly together, that’s important.” remix with The Colourist; we’d love to feel good about it. No, we feel great In their short time working together, the BFFs do an original track with them. And about it.” have witnessed plenty of highs but also some . We would drop everything.” lows, such as the wave of criticism against EDM Adds Pall: “And Adam Levine. Not last year following multiple, high profile drug- really for music, but we just want to As of Jan. 28, The Chainsmokers’ related deaths at dance events. But as Pall sees it, hang out with him and have tacos and original track “#Selfie” is out on “people are going to party no matter what music stuff.” Dim Mak Records, the label found- they’re listening to.” Despite their wish list, they’re also ed by one of their heroes . Although they understand the seriousness of firming up a game plan with new, For more, follow them on : such tragedies, they believe the media’s “demoni- original tracks in the works. Fol- @thechainsmokers.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 13 Betty Who NO QUESTION ABOUT IT: SHE'S ON HER WAY TO BE A STAR

BY RACHEL FAYLENE

ustralian singer-songwriter Jes- mits. “I’ll sing a song at a show, and six has been synonymous with controversy sica Newham, known on stage months later I’ll sing the same song and for the past year. But Newham takes her Aas Betty Who, is the promising it means something totally different.” side in admiration, praising the young fresh face of this year after Being able to spark an emotion in an- songstress for her bravery. her popularity boomed in 2013. The other human being through music is ev- “I think if I could be as fearless as her, 23-year-old talent released her debut erything an artist like Newham desires. I’d be fine,” she states. “I think that Mi- EP and signed to RCA Records over the And while the natural inclination to ley—she’s going to say what she wants. course of a year, while picking up steam make an impact with her voice is valid, She doesn’t really care what people say with her first single “Somebody Loves it’s not the driving force behind her pas- about her.” You.” sion. A courageous attitude is exactly what The track was first unveiled in 2012 When she was only four years old, a budding artist like Betty Who needs but was given new life after Spencer Newham began training as a classical as she dives into her much-anticipated Stout, a fan of Newham’s, coupled the cellist. Then she taught herself to play debut album. With a larger platform song with his flash-mob dance proposal piano and guitar before writing her first and more eyes peeled, she hopes to re- to his boyfriend Dustin. Once the video song as a teenager. Musical performance introduce herself to both existing and was uploaded, the Internet did what it is as central to her identity as her baby potential fans. A brand new single, does best and exposed Betty Who to a are to her appearance. And she’s “Heartbreak Dream,” is also planned new--much wider--fan base. remained faithful to that drive without to be heir to Betty Who’s “Somebody “The whole process of having people the guarantee of major success. Loves You” throne. listening to the song because of that vid- “It wouldn’t really matter if nobody “It’s like I get to do my first impres- eo--it doesn’t matter what shape or form was listening to my music; I would still sion all over again. This whole new it comes in--it’s just about being with be making it, but I’d just be working a group of people that maybe didn’t hear somebody you love and having that be crappy waitress job,” she says. “Because ‘Somebody Loves You,’ maybe they’ll the answer to it all,” she expresses. “It’s it’s who I am. It’s what I’ve always want- hear ‘Heartbreak Dream,’” she says. so great, and I feel so lucky and blessed ed to do, and this is what brings me joy.” “That feels so right to me, to be the next to have this platform for my music.” Having blossomed into the young progression of where I am in my music The single itself carries a blissful aura, woman fans now know as Betty Who, and what it sounds like and what it feels but for Newham, the song encompassed she’s been compared to the likes of Katy like.” the emotions and reality of a relation- Perry and . Whereas many up- Her hopes and plans for the year are ship running its course. and-coming artists might despise be- clearly in place, but she admits that “‘Somebody Loves You’ was a breakup ing compared to those preceding them, some things are unforeseeable. Fingers song for me,” she explains. “When I claiming to be something completely are crossed as fans, media and peers wait wrote it, it was about me breaking up new, Betty is more than flattered by the to see what her next move will be. And with this man and being like, ‘You don’t comparisons and looks to both Perry as her star continues to rise, Newham is understand that I love you, and I’m and Robyn as inspiration. learning to embrace this latest chapter, literally standing in front of you yell- “I’m obsessed with both of them,” with all its fluctuations and surprises. ing at you, telling you that I love you, Newham confesses without hesitation. “I could tell you what my schedule is and you’re not listening. So I’m walking “So I’m really, really happy about it, and for tomorrow, and then I’d check back away.’” also it’s just such an honor ... it doesn’t with you tomorrow night and it’d be Her music is decidedly honest and even feel real, because to me, nothing like I thought it was going to accessible for listeners at any period of and Robyn make pop that’s generation- be. That’s kind of how my whole life is life. Some may use it as a way to deal al. They’re making the pop music of our running right now, but it’s very exciting. with heartbreak while others apply it to generation that’s going to stick around. It’s also totally unsettling and terrifying.” celebrate the love of their life. Newham People are going to look back and be says her fans’ ability to connect with the like, ‘Oh my God, it’s Robyn’s Body Betty Who is expected to release music is what it’s all about, pointing out Talk album. That’s one of the best pop a second EP this spring, followed that it’s important even for herself as albums of the last 10 years.’” by a full-length later this year. For she’s taking the stage. Another addition to her celebrity the latest, follow her on Twitter:

PHOTO BY ALEX STERN “The song changes for me,” she ad- “crush list” is , whose name @bettywhomusic.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 15 PHOTOS BY MICHAEL LAVINE

SOMETIMES York City after high school, the Harris Though the band’s proverbial nose has brothers and Feldshuh connected with only been to the grindstone since 2010, IN A SMALL COLLEGE drummer Adam Levin in college to se- in today’s music culture fueled by You- TOWN cure their R&B-flushed take on alt-pop. Tube, social media and countless itera- like Ithaca, N.Y., there’s nothing but “It’s been a steady grind, and when we tions of online radio, three years can feel trouble for kids to get into. But X Am- look at it every year, we have gotten fur- like a lifetime. How fast a band moves bassadors frontman Sam Harris, his ther than we were the year before,” Har- from open mics to the AMAs is now a brother Casey and childhood friend ris explains. “A year ago, we didn’t have common measure of success. But Har- Noah Feldshuh instead turned to music a record deal; we didn’t have anything ris seems to have seen past that, unde- in middle school and managed to create new out, really. We had an EP that had terred. some magic. been out for a year and we were sort of “Every year it builds and builds and Now, they’re on a national tour with figuring out what the next step was, and builds, and you just have to look at Panic! At the , navigating their the deal with Alex [Da Kid] and Inter- it as a slow and steady wins the race first deal with , and scope all sort of fell together. It was a kind of thing. And it’s hard. It’s really being mentored by the same that year before that we really had nothing. hard,” he admits. “Especially when you brought us , Alex Da We had just started to build our team of see so many other artists coming up so Kid. people; we had only just gotten a book- fast ...You have to wonder, if it doesn’t Having made the pilgrimage to New ing agent, just gotten management.” happens so fast for you, are you doing

16 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM X AMB ASSA

tion: Does radio still have power The mantra “timing is every- to bring music to the masses? thing” applies. And that’s where DORS Harris thinks so. X Ambassadors stand today: “Living in New York, you get ready with a lineup of really so obsessed with the blog world great songs, waiting for the per- because that is how a lot of new fect moment to catch lightning music is being discovered. But to in a bottle. the rest of the country, radio is “We’ve been cultivating this still a big, big thing,” Harris ac- sound, this kind of alternative, THE BAND OF knowledges. “Even in L.A. when R&B, soul, kind of tribal thing we’re driving around, the radio is that we really want to take to BROTHERS IS AT always on and that’s where I hear the next level,” Harris explains. a lot of stuff for the first time. I “We all grew up listening to pop THE START OF ONE think it’s still very much a pow- music. We listened to what was erful tool. on the radio: hip-hop, R&B, INCREDIBLE YEAR “I would love to see more radio a lot of stuff that was carefully stations taking more chances on crafted to be accessible to young BY AMANDA MORAD these alternative up-and-coming kids. Then later on, we all got bands. There are some stations involved in indie rock and a lot that really are still doing that. It’s of stuff that was more under the great to see that radio can still radar. We want to try to apply something wrong? What’s going on? Should I be making a have a hand in breaking bands.” the sensibility that we grew up different kind of music? Is the whole thing worth it? But it’s definitely not a magic having ingrained in us to this re- “All these questions run through your head, and you kind bullet, Harris explains. “It’s not ally eclectic sound that we’re try- of have to shut it all out because it’s such a game – it’s such just one thing or the other that’s ing to capture.” a crapshoot, really. The only thing you can do is continue to going to do it for you. You’re not This sound includes all kinds write the best music that you possibly can. This is the music going to get a song on the radio of outside-the-rock-box instru- that we’re making, and we’re really proud of it. We work re- unless you’re getting a bunch of mentation, including saxes and ally hard at it, and that’s all we can do.” placements in trailers or com- horns, Sam’s vocals—at times Even though a meteoric rise to chart-topping success is mercials or if your songs are on thick and just the right kind of only a byproduct of hard work and not the end game, being blogs. But you’re not going to raspy and at times in pristine fal- groomed by the guys who helped launch Imagine Dragons get placements in trailers or put setto—and a blend of influences into the spotlight can’t hurt. Frontman Dan Reynolds of on blogs if you don’t have some that reflect the ever-evolving the band who brought us “Radioactive” last year heard X other story going on. It’s all in- face of pop music. Ambassadors’ broody tribal-rock single, “Unconsolable,” on tertwined. So again, you just Virginia’s alternative radio station, liked what he heard, and have to keep making cool shit. made a suggestion to Alex Da Kid. From there, preparation People will see that and they For the band’s latest updates, be just met opportunity. will respond to it. It’s as simple sure to follow them on Twitter: But X Ambassadors’ discovery raises an important ques- as that.” @XAmbassadors.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 17 at Staples Center by Derrick Lee VARIANCE

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*14 VARIANCE MAGAZINE.COM MAGAZINE.COM x 21 40 ALBUMS to WATCH for in 2014

As past the GRAMMYs, next year’s possible contenders are already making for a shiny new year. While a Beyoncé- like surprise album may or may not be in the forecast this year, there are plenty of other records on the scheule. From the newcomers like Sam Smith, SZA and Vancouver Sleep Clinic, to The Black Keys and Frank Ocean’s much- teased new sets, it will be a busy year. And we’re running down some of the most- anticipated new releases, which include , Foo Fighters, Solange, St. Vincent, Grimes, Wye Oak and so many more.

22 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM t Foxes The British songbird and FutureSounds alum- na is coming off a fantastic year after collabora- tions with and Fall Out Boy. And then there was her top 10 hit “Clarity” with . Now it’s her time to shine, and she’s aim- ing to release her Glorious album in March, just weeks before her 25th birthday.

Frank Ocean While he briefly hinted that he might not re- lease another album, the crooner has been hard at work on his next re- cord. He said early last year that he already had more than 10 tracks down. His appearances on new albums from Beyoncé, JAY Z and John BANKS Mayer confirm he’s been busy in the studio. Following the release of her London EP, the And he’s mentioned that a new album could singer-songwriter keeps us hang- arrive in the summer. ing on for more. Based on the handful of lus- trous tracks she’s already released, she’s poised to make an enormous splash when she finally releases her debut album.

Solange Not much is yet known about the younger Knowles sister’s upcoming studio set, but after years of struggling to find her lane in the musi- Sam Smith cal landscape, the 27-year-old neo-soul singer He’s got arguably one of the brightest voices in proved she’s only getting started with 2012’s music in years, and with consistent guest fea- True. tures on Disclosure and Naughty Boy tracks, the powerhouse vocalist and BRIT Awards Critics Choice winner is on course to have an amazing year.

ScHoolboy Q Following the release of fellow Top Dawg En- tertainment signee Kendrick Lamar’s good kid, The Black Keys m.A.A.d city, the bar is certainly high. But Q’s First, Dan Auerbach teased a new album would forthcoming Oxymoron is shaping up to be one drop in spring 2013. Although that didn’t hap- of the most-anticipated hip-hop sets of 2014. pen, the band has spent the last few weeks rack- Fellow rapper Mac Miller has already heard the ing up headlining festival spots for 2014, sug- record and declared, “It’s better than Kendrick’s gesting new music is on the horizon. album.”

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 23 Cloud Nothings Frontman Dylan Baldi has previously hinted that the new record would be nois- ier than the band’s other three offerings. The album is already finished, although only a few fans have heard it, but it’s ex- pected to arrive in the spring.

Ed Sheeran Having covered the globe touring, in- cluding a massive trek with buddy Tay- lor Swift, the British singer-songwriter p recently wrapped his sophomore album After years of silence, the British pop songstress made a boisterous return in with power-producer Rick Rubin. He’s November with new single “Hard Out Here,” in which she pretty much called noted that he intends to add another out her contemporaries and gave a scathing commentary on pop culture, spe- song, but with a tour starting in October, cifically regarding sexism. We’re watching for the full album sometime in the he’s also promised the album will arrive warmer months, and we expect it to be hot, hot, hot. before then.

St. Vincent Little Dragon X Ambassadors There are few others releasing incredible After about three years of touring, the Having worked with producer Alex Da pop music like the multi-talented An- Swedish indie outfit revealed last fall that Kid and singer Dan Reynolds of Imagine nie Clark, known to fans as St. Vincent. they were tying up the loose ends for their Dragons (also groomed by Alex), songs Following a year of touring, she’s finally fourth album, which includes a string like “Unconsolable” and “Love Songs releasing new material in the form of a quartet on several songs. This will be the Drug Songs” have demanded our atten- self-titled album on Feb. 25. Clark has first time outside musicians contributed tion. And the full-length debut from this referred to the set as “a party record you to the band’s material. At last report, the New York outfit, whenever it does release, could play at a funeral.” group was aiming for a spring release. should be on your radar.

24 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM Fleet Foxes Foo Fighters Despite drummer Josh Tillman’s solo suc- Dave Grohl revealed last August that the cess with his Father John Misty project, new album was already written, vowing new updates on social media suggest the that it would be done “in a way that no band is ready to come back from its well- one’s ever done before.” Of course, Be- documented hiatus. Frontman Robin yoncé swept through shortly after that, Pecknold’s October appearance on Late raising the bar for album releases. None- Night with Jimmy Fallon to pay tribute to theless, expect nothing short of extraordi- Pearl Jam further built up anticipation for nary from this record. new material. The man behind two of 2013’s stratospheric hits, Robin 40 Thicke’s “” and Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky,” is ALBUMS to gearing up for his own solo album. Expectations are defi- nitely high for the record, WATCH which reportedly will be light Chance the Rapper on rap. Expect Williams’ omni- The MC put his peers on notice for in present, Beats Music-approved with last year’s Acid Rap mixtape, which “Happy” to lead the charge on was arguably better than some of the full- 2014 radio as the new LP nears. fledged albums released. In addition to collaborations with the likes of Childish Gambino and Action Bronson, his “Life Round Here” remix with quickly turned heads. Now the two are expected to be living together and record- ing tons of new music.

holychild The experimental pop duo comprised of vocal- ist Liz Nistico and producer- Vancouver Sleep multi-instrumentalist Louie Clinic Diller began floating under the radar last year with tracks like Modest Mouse All the way from Brisbane, , “Happy with Me.” They’re ex- Following years of consistent touring, the newcomer Vancouver Sleep Clinic (aka pected to take things up a notch band had left a new album on the back Tim Bettinson) swept us away with in March for SXSW, with a burner. However, they cancelled tour his Bon Iver-influenced new single, full-length—or at the least, an dates last summer in favor of finishing up “Collapse.” Since then, he’s toured with EP—sure to follow. Either way, a full-length. Nirvana bassist Krist No- London Grammar and has landed a spot these two are sure to skyrocket. voselic recorded on the new set and says at this year’s SXSW. At the very least, he it’s “pretty edgy.” will be releasing an extended play.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 25 Kanye West Kendrick Lamar The rapper-designer confidently said at Just before his tour with Kanye West the end of 2013 that he was already work- wrapped, Lamar said that he was heading Death Cab for ing on a new album for this summer, back in the studio, where he’s been since Cutie although he pointed out that it would the beginning of the year. Top Dawg is Shortly after his Postal Service re- probably be limited to about eight tracks. expected to release as many as six albums union tour, Ben Gibbard assured He also hasn’t ruled out a sequel to his this year, one of which reportedly belongs fans that next up was new mate- JAY Z collab . to Lamar. rial from Death Cab. Through a series of Instagram updates, it’s clear the band has been holed up in the studio since October. 40 ALBUMS to WATCH Rick Ross for in Mastermind floated around Twitter as River Tiber nothing more than a hashtag for most of Toronto singer-producer River 2014 2013, but after delays and legal battles, Tiber’s (aka Tommy Paxton- Ricky Rozay has assured his loyal follow- Beesley) The Star Falls EP was ers that this will finally be the year. On some of the best music of last the upside, he was hardly quiet last year, year, and the title track was one giving us a handful of new tracks and of our Top 50 Songs of 2013. remixes. But it all leads up to a full-length record, due to release this year.

Sharon Van Etten Grimes The singer-songwriter has blos- Festival appearances and remixes aside, Bassist Adam Clayton confirmed last fall somed into a powerful force, and Claire Boucher (aka Grimes) has kept that the band was finishing up its new al- 2012’s Tramp further positioned fans waiting for her new record. It does bum. The rockers are expected to make her into the spotlight. With up- appear the stars are finally lining up for an announcement during the Super Bowl coming performances at SXSW a 2014 release. But one thing is clear: an- regarding the new set, of which Danger and other dates, it’s becoming ticipation for more of her fizzy, glow-pop Mouse largely produced. Of course, some likely she’ll reign again in 2014. delicacies has not been higher than it is fans won’t like the rumored involvement right now. of will.i.am and .

26 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM Wye Oak For the next album, the band is ditch- ing the guitars and switching things up, which will certainly make for an interest- ing finished product. 2011’s Civilian was such an incredible record, and it’s hard not to imagine the new one meeting—or beating—expectations.

Flying Lotus Only two years after the incredible Until the Quiet Comes and with a slew of collab- orations to his name, Steven Ellison (aka ) has confirmed on Twitter that a new album is in the works. p Ladies and gentlemen, it finally looks like we’ll be getting that long-promised debut album this year. Following its neverending delay, Banks had too much time to pick fights on Twitter. But she’s since revealed that it will arrive in March, hopefully making the music her mission this year.

Charli XCX With several standout singles and her international, mega-hit collaboration with Icona Pop, “I Love it,” all eyes are The Decemberists on SuperLove, the singer’s forthcoming Frontman Colin Meloy said last fall that he had been “writing new material” spe- sophomore album. It’s expected to release cifically for the new album, insinuating it would be ready in the very near future. in time to your summer, she’s A couple of songs have already been performed live, and it’s clear this one could previously suggested. be the band’s most important record to date.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 27 Lo-Fang Rising electro-soul Matthew Hemerlein (aka Lo-Fang) is set to release his debut album, Blue Film, on 4AD in February. And it’s sure to be full of more of the stirring, sexy sounds that inspired breakout artist Lorde to invite him on her upcoming spring tour.

Foster the People p After laying low for a few years, the former indie-cult favorite revealed last fall that it was finished with a new full-length that frontman Mark Foster calls a “brave record.” With a new sound, this new material should hit retailers in March.

Sampha After bursting into the spotlight with unforgettable collaborations with Drake, SBTRKT and , the Young SZA Turks singer is expected to release a full- With two blazing tracks, “Julia” and “Teen A year after his Alex Da Kid-produced length album later this year. And he Spirit,” the buzz of the blogosphere, the Rumble and Sway EP, the British blues should plan to spend a lot more time out- TDE R&B songstress is looking to make singer has opened for side of London as music lovers across the a fiery debut this year on the label that and collabed with Eminem for The Mar- globe realize his vigor. n turned Kendrick Lamar into a household shall Mathers LP 2. Now, it’s his turn to name. stun the world. 40 ALBUMS to WATCH Chromeo Porter Robinson Anticipation for the electrofunk duo’s From intimate venues to mammoth fes- for in new album is building, and now that we tival stages, Variance FutureSounds alum know it will feature contributions from Robinson isn’t sitting at the kids’ table 2014 Toro Y Moi’s Chaz Bundick, anymore. And with a brand new record of Vampire Weekend and others, White on the horizon, we’re watching for him to Women already sounds like a winner. expand his prominence this year.

28 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM

SWITCHFOOT IS CURRENTLY AT THE FOREFRONT of a very big moment in its history. Nearly two decades in, the San Diego alt-rock outfit is not only releasing a new album, but they’re telling a story that’s perhaps been a long time coming—18 years, to be exact. Preceding the band’s newly released record became an opportunity to re- I sing the songs and the rea- was a documentary of the same name, which followed veal, in the words of their new son I’m doing what I’m doing the surf-rockers across the globe capturing behind-the- single, “Who We Are.” might differ from the next guy scenes footage, tour struggles and even some very personal Switchfoot has long been over. And those are the things hardships. pegged as a “Christian” band, that feel the most different be- “There are some parts of the movie that I honestly just and their battles to overcome tween us as a band and a lot don’t like to watch,” frontman confesses, the stigma of the genre have of the bands that we end up speaking with Variance on a late fall afternoon at the end been well-documented. But hanging out with on the road. of the band’s tour to promote the new record. “The truth despite notable mainstream The motivation behind it.” is, though, we wanted to tell an honest story. You can tell success, even Foreman’s At this point in the band’s the truth in metaphor or in poetry, which is what we have brother Tim (the band’s - career, turning back the clock done for years. But people can take away their own inter- ist) lamented during the doc- isn’t an option. But the film pretation from that. Many times, you can tell the most umentary that they still don’t gives them the chance to brutal story in a song, but not everyone will understand know where they fit in. change the narrative and pres- what they’re hearing. It’s not that as a band we haven’t While Foreman acknowl- ent their story unfiltered, po- had our hardships, it’s just that the expression, looking edges the challenges associ- tentially appealing to a wider for hope in dark places, has been in metaphors. With the ated with being this sort of audience. movie, the question was, how much do you leave in? How crossover band, and he sees a Having a loyal core fan base is much of the personal element do we allow into the pub- bigger picture. certainly a major perk for any lic? Because we don’t have all the answers. And I think “Music is one of those few, band, but Switchfoot never the film was a reflection of that. It lets people into that incredible common bonds intended to be a “Christian” struggle.” that unites us,” the singer band. And with the religious The film, which began as a surf project to showcase the explains. “It’s one of the true landscape more diverse than guys’ other love outside of music, turned into something uniting elements of human- ever, Foreman is being a little more. After years of label-hopping and being pigeonholed ity that we can share together. more vocal about it. as something they’re not, Switchfoot’s fun side-venture But then again, the reason “We’ve always wanted to play

30 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM SWITCHFOOT Chasing a New Wave

The Band Is Aiming Higher and Telling Their Story in Their Own Words

BY JONATHAN ROBLES

Although Switchfoot casts a says acts like mewithoutYou, tainly feel we’ve remained true wide net with their music, the Mumford and Sons, Vampire to that foundation.” religious sect that embraced Weekend and Dr. Dog give With a new album and the band early on is in many him hope for the future of documentary and tour dates ways fractured and arguably music, noting that he tends to follow, Switchfoot’s short- more rigid than it was 10 or to “end up gravitating towards term plans are intact. But 15 years ago. And as Foreman songs and stories. It doesn’t while the distant future is un-

PHOTO BY BRIAN NEVINS sees it, it’s not healthy. matter how many or how few certain, Foreman hopes the “In many ways, everyone people they’re in front of, I band will still be around for is now more closed off than listen to their story and I’m years to come. ever,” he posits. “People are moved by it. And that’s some- “We’re a band of broth- very seldom starting con- thing I really appreciate.” ers,” he proclaims. “We will versations to learn. Most of After years of making mu- always have that. I know the time, when you hear a sic, with a critic for every fan, we are at that place where political debate, on TV or the 37-year-old believes the we have families, and you at a backyard barbecue, it’s band has remained true to its never know. But whether or because two people are dead original vision, despite many not we’re making music to- set in their views and want to who might argue against that gether, we will always have prove the other person wrong. claim. that common bond. Who’s to For , in the film, I got “Sure, we want to reach more say what the future holds? It a chance to interview Greg people,” he says. “But we’ve seems with every album, we Graffin from Bad Religion. never sacrificed who we are to do kind of break up the band music for thinking people,” he A lot of people would think, do that. Both in surfing and and start from scratch. We says, pointing to critics. “If ‘Switchfoot and Bad Religion in music, it started with the want to make sure we’re not people don’t have that kind of have nothing in common. endeavor of joy. You pick up just going through the mo- open-minded approach to life, Why would they even have a guitar or you paddle out on tions, that music doesn’t just then maybe our songs aren’t a conversation?’ But we have your surfboard, and you are become a paycheck, and that for them anyway. We want to tons in common and in many immersed in this incredible it comes from the heart. But play music for everyone, but ways, I have so much to learn world unlike any other area I guess never quite knowing if people want to live in boxes, from him and maybe he’s got of life. Of course, there’s the what comes next, just riding that’s not really my job to tell something to learn from me. self-expression. And I know the wave, it’s all part of the them otherwise. The beauty We have to approach situa- sometimes we throw around thrill of it. And I couldn’t ask is—and this is our inspira- tions with open hands, not ‘hope’ and these large words, for anything else.” tion—that I’ve met so many with an agenda. That’s the but even to this day, when I’m people from all forms of faith. only way for us to move for- live on stage, I feel the Islamic and Buddhist and ward in a positive way.” purpose is for the sheer joy of Christian and Atheist, they all As agendas and ulterior mo- being alive and simply want- find something that resonates tives tend to be relative with ing to share that. So where I For tour dates and informa- with them in our songs.” the , Foreman am at this very moment, I cer- tion, go to switchfoot.com.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 31 * Phantogram

BY RACHEL FAYLENE any acts stick to a release formula that has become dependable for anyone interested in music in the new millennium; Demos and EPs leading to a first full-length, then releasing another EP and another full- M length until the spark is gone. Over the past few years, Phantogram has bucked this trend in releasing only one al- bum and a handful of rich EPs that have kept them at the forefront of indie mu- sic. Their work has since been featured in smash movies, popular television series, and even used to promote brands like Canon and Gillette. While many bands would feel obligated to churn out an album or two with this level of exposure, Phantogram has kept a steady course that has allowed them to work on their own terms. It’s also afforded them the chance to work at length with a modern music legend, mixing genres and their fans on a grand scale A couple of days before heading off to Mexico City for one more show, Sarah Barthel (the vocals and keyboards to Josh IT’S Carter’s guitars and sampling) explains the decision to roll out their self-titled EP ahead of their forthcoming record, VOICES: “It’s just the way it worked. We ALL finished the album and we weren’t able to finish it in time for the deadline that we had for our label, and they wanted more LED time to push it. And then we just wanted to be able to focus more on it, so they de- cided on pushing it back, and instead of UP pushing it all back and not giving fans a little taste of Phantogram, they were like, ‘Alright, we’ll just release some of the TO songs for now, and then we’ll release the rest of them, the full length, later on in the cycle.’ That’s what the EP [was] for, THIS. really. Just to kind of give a little taste of

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 33 what the full length is going to be.” Phantogram was actually the fourth of EPs released since the band’s debut al- bum, Eyelid Movies. During this run, the duo also decided it was time to expand their reach. Originally releasing their material exclusively through the Barsuk , they recently joined forces with . Known for pushing popular, pro- gressive acts to the top of the charts, this is an opportunity the band is looking to take full advantage of, as Barthel explains. “The reason we transitioned is because we want- ed more of a push. We wanted our music to get out to more people, so we wanted to make this the next step. I mean, so far, so good, but we’re looking forward to the next year when we can really get our mu- sic out to more people, and they’re the best for that.” Now part of a roster that includes for- ward-thinking artists such as Drake and ects. The new album, VOICES, will be which there’s a lot of psychedelic [influ- , Phantogram are in a fantastic a distinctly Phantogram record, continu- ence] on the record as well. Just kind of situation to sample, shake up and fuse dis- ing the sonic themes of their last EP. leaving it open to – you know, everyone parate genres into a crackling creation for “We kind of wanted to keep the album has their own voices that come up, come audiences that may not go digging for fresh a piece of work on its own, just because in your dreams or when you’re walking music regularly. sometimes it’s hard. There’s a fine line of down the street or wherever.” In between releasing their music in excit- change that can happen if it’s not done The samples and songwriting also put ing doses, Phantogram also had the fortune right. Like intermixing different genres bandmate Josh Carter’s talent on greater of being discovered by hip-hop great Big or having guest appearances and things display, as Barthel explains. “The song- Boi, one-half of the seminal Southern rap like that. We wanted to keep VOICES writing in general is great, but Josh was act OutKast alongside André 3000. For his [separate].” super [big] on records and old vinyl, these second solo album, Vicious Lies and Dan- Collaborating with Big Boi will un- pieces of music that he finds in the most gerous Rumors, Big Boi featured the group doubtedly attract new fans to VOICES. random places, from an old band on three tracks and shot them a producer’s But for those who cannot get enough of to some Indian records we sampled off credit for the track “Objectum Sexuality.” the Vicious Lies... efforts, there will be a of. We played some really cool shit, old Barthel elaborates: “He found us online, future release expanding on those ideas, soul, . Just obscure stuff that we like [an ad or something] just popped up according to Barthel: “What we’re going kind of started with as the base for the on his screen while he was doing some- to do with Big, we’re going to release an album and kind of built from there, built thing, and he pressed the button, and it EP with him where it’ll be a collabora- around it and were able to build songs on took him to a for “Mouthful tion of stuff. Because we’ve got more top of it. We were able to make full dy- of Diamonds.” He looked through it and than just one song idea. It just gives us namics. A lot of things are more dynamic he fucking loved it, he was super pumped another really fun excuse to work with compared to our last album.” about it, put it on his blog. We found out him for longer.” She ultimately cites their approach to about that; we started just talking to him. Of course, the timeline for that has yet production as the quality that stands out After that we became friends with him on to be drawn, considering an expected most on VOICES: “The biggest influ- Twitter, and then we were doing the same OutKast reunion this spring at Coachel- ence, I would have to say, is just beat- festival circuit at the time, so we met him in la and what will likely be a busy summer making and sampling. We just got such San Francisco, and then we met him again for both Big and André. But Barthel says a different way of looking at production in when we played. He invited us it’s definitely in the works. and beats. You’ll hear a lot of that.” over … Josh played him some of his beats When it comes to the influences of Phantogram rode a steady wave of qual- that he had just laying around and hoped VOICES, Barthel points to the origin of ity releases into 2014, but it’s only the that he would want to use some of them.” the title: “It actually came from an idea beginning. Incorporating ideas from Listening to OutKast growing up, Barthel of an older song that we made a long different, dynamic genres of music and says it’s a “dream come true” to be working time ago. We ended up re-recording it. pulling new fans from each of them, they closely with Big Boi. “It’s great. He’s kind of The plan was it would be on the album, are now postured to continue surprising a mentor to us in a way. He’s always rooting but it didn’t come out together correctly. the public with their effusive, beat-driv- for us. Whenever we stop in when we’re on It didn’t fit,” she says. en pace. All in all, it’s going to be a very tour and stuff, we play him our stuff and he “But it’s just the idea I guess of having good year for this pair. gets really excited about it.” personal conversations with the other Although they’ve had success delving into person in your head. Hearing voices, not the hip-hop genre, the group still draws knowing where they’re coming from; It VOICES is set to release Feb. 18 on creative boundaries for individual proj- kind of gives it a psychedelic idea, too, Republic Records.

34 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM futuresounds y BY WESTON SHEPHERD

fie Jurvanen, also known as fans and allows them to feel the song as it great soundtrack for thought and Bahamas, is a Canadian musi- is intended. With his second album, Bar- introspection. cian with a knack for music that chords, he created an album that has been As 2014 begins, look for Bahamas on Asimply makes the listener feel better. It’s widely overlooked but easily one of the the recent soundtrack for The Secret Life subtle, never over the top, and perfect for better efforts from any musician in recent of Walter Mitty, in which he teams up those just wanting to relax and listen to memory. with The Weather Station to present a good music. There is always a place for For those unfamiliar with Barchords, slowed down, acoustic version of The Hu- tunes like that. or Bahamas in general, start with “Lost man League’s “Don’t You Want Me.” It’s His first album, Pink Strat, was record- in the Light” for a track that guar- a perfect cover and brings a different take ed in a cabin in rural Canada, and the antees to improve mood, make you on a classic song that most everyone has end result catapulted him straight into smile or provide the cure for a bad day. likely heard. Aside from that, we’ll con- local fame. Equipped with an acoustic In the quieter moments, move on to tinue looking forward to the next full- guitar and soft, soothing vocals, there “” for a track that puts length album in hopes for much more of is believability in his voice that disarms the listener at ease and provides a the same from this wonderful artist.

BAHAMAS BY WESTON SHEPHERD THE SOUNDS YOU NEED TO HEAR

GREGORY ALAN ISOKOV

native South African that immi- his Mona Lisa came on 2013’s album, ate what he does, you must listen to each grated to the as a The Weatherman. From the very first album in its entirety. This sect of music child, Gregory Alan Isakov is a track, listeners are enveloped in a story is not the type that is best experienced in Asinger-songwriter that has the ability to that unfolds across the entire album, as chunks. paint any picture using only his voice and each song builds upon the last. His voice Be looking for more from Isakov in an acoustic guitar. Inspired by his trav- inspires reflection and wonder, and you 2014 and beyond, as he promises to els, his music is mellow, honest and alto- soon find yourself starting the album all continue creating music for his passion- gether beautiful—a brand of tunes that over again once it’s finished. ate and very engaged fan base. His music promises to ease nerves when life gets too To get a feel for Isakov at his finest, is timeless and will always have its place stressful. check out “” from his latest al- among mp3 players, playlists whatever Releasing his first album in 2005, Isakov bum, and also make sure to lose yourself comes next. Hopefully you heard it is no stranger to the music business, but in “Astronaut.” However, to fully appreci- here first.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 37 THE SOUNDS YOU NEED TO HEAR

GEOGRAPHER

inding their origin in San Francis- in perfect vocals on top of that. The fin- The band’s songs have been featured on co in 2007, Geographer’s unique ished product inspires fans to move their MTV’s Awkward, The Buried Life, in ad- brand of music is upbeat and cool; feet but also think, as the lyrics of each dition to an iPad Mini commercial. Fperfect for the new beginnings that a song are worth paying attention to as In becoming a fan of Geographer, ex- new year often inspires. The guys have well. pect to find a brand of music that makes described their music as “soulful music With their last full-length album, you feel cool while listening to it. It is from outer space,” and after one listen, 2012’s Myth, the group put its musical perfect for top-down driving or rainy such an outlandish statement makes maturation on display as the collection days stuck in the house—a versatil- complete sense. of songs proves to be a complete listen ity that is hard to come by. Geographer With the release of their 2010 EP, Ani- from start to finish. The sound is familiar will undoubtedly become the next band mal Shapes, Geographer very much hit even to those who have never heard it, you can’t wait to tell your friends about, the scene with force. Each track blends and fans from all different genres can find and we’re hoping for new music and big electronic and acoustic music, throwing something to appreciate in each track. things in 2014.

38 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM futuresounds y

escribed on its Facebook struggle for these boys from . is all about, start with the title track page as simply “Indie Post Blending electronic with catchy lyr- from the Floating There EP. Then Punk Pop band from Paris,” ics and upbeat feelings, listeners will move on to “Lie Down” from 2012’s DConcorde is a relatively unknown experience a type of funky, head-bob- Summer House album. Both tracks group that is great at making fantastic bing brand of music that is uncom- perfectly showcase what this music is music. After a year that saw the band mon in today’s landscape. Another all about and guarantee to make you a release a critically acclaimed EP, 2014 one of those bands that just makes fan in the process. looks to be another big step in the you feel kind of cool for knowing Long story short, this is a feel-good overall success of this group. about it, this is the type of group that brand of music that you want to jam Concorde released two full-length you want to get in on early so you can when the sun is out. Also perfect for albums in 2012, followed by 2013’s say, “I told you so.” those of us deadlocked in the middle Floating There EP, so coming up with For those looking to get on the fast of winter and daydreaming of sunnier catchy new material is clearly no track of what this group and its music days. Give it a listen and fall in love.

CONCORDE 40 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM Angel Haze BREAKING THE RULES AND FOLLOWING HER OWN PATH

BY EDWIN WILSON

IT’S

a cold afternoon in late November. opted to rush the album out offi- Winter has made its way to the East cially on Dec. 30 instead of holding Coast, and it’s starting to feel like for March. the holidays, but Raykeea Angel It didn’t take long for the opinions Wilson (aka Angel Haze) is still to roll in. Did Angel Haze really busy working ahead of her debut just do what M.I.A. and album, , believed at the had once threatened to do? Surely time to be coming in March. it was a career-killer. What was she “It’s so close, I can’t believe it’s thinking? Or maybe she just gave finally starting to become a real- herself the best kind of PR. Maybe ity,” the young songstress beams. Beyoncé just got to her with that “It’s one of those things you dream surprise album. about, but to think that’s it’s actu- While there has been no shortage ally time, it’s just unreal. It’s hard to of critiques surrounding the “leak” wait.” and its aftermath, just days prior, So she didn’t wait. Only days later, the blogosphere was on fire, sing- she took to Twitter in a fury and ing the rising MC’s praises. Her leaked her own album, slamming “30 Gold” cover series was a hit, her label Island/Republic Records offering renditions of Lana Del Rey and declaring: “Since they don’t and Miley Cyrus hits, among other want to put it out this year, I will. seemingly left-field song choices. Here’s the album. Here is Dirty “It was something I used to do Gold. I hope you all enjoy it.” before I was signed,” she reveals. “I Of course, the leak was pulled told my manager, ‘I miss that. Put- down immediately. And the label ting out new freestyles everyday. It’d

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 41 be fun to tap into that and do it again.’ for about marriage equality as couraged her to press on. And despite I don’t think people expected me to a straight man, Wilson doesn’t see the the flawed album release, there’s plenty be able to sing. And maybe I did it to problem. In fact, she encourages more for Wilson to be inspired by. prove something to them, but probably of it. “One of the things I love about rap to prove something to me before the al- “I get why people didn’t like it,” she is how your peers push you to work bum. Because I’m not gonna lie, listen- admits. “But I don’t know if I see it like harder and be better,” she says. “I mean, ing to it—the finished, real thing—I’m that. It has to be important for people look at Kendrick Lamar. If we’re talking freaking the fuck out.” to speak out, regardless of who you are about the rap game right now, I don’t At 22, perhaps Wilson is in some or how you identify yourself. Black, think there’s many people outdoing ways the victim of her own success. white, straight, trans, it doesn’t matter. him at the moment. That’s just how it Not too long ago, she was working her Someone has to say something. And way up in the game, just trying to catch more importantly is actually doing someone’s—anyone’s—ear. 2012’s Res- something, taking action. It’s not just ervation EP quickly established her as talking. But with anything, why would a force to be reckoned with, and her you want less voices? What we need is cover of Eminem’s “Cleanin’ Out My more.” Closet” was met with applause. But the It’s clear from the young star’s fer- underground scene isn’t like the main- vency that she isn’t fond of voices being stream, and the rules are very different. silenced, which is understandable. But So many rules. only days before Wilson talked to Vari- “IT HAS TO BE Although Wilson has made clear be- ance, an interesting thing—at least, in IMPORTANT FOR fore that her rap skills are competitive hindsight—happened. Azealia Banks, with better-knowns, and her passion who’s frequently mentioned alongside PEOPLE TO SPEAK OUT, has never been in question, the reality Wilson thanks to their highly publi- REGARDLESS OF WHO is that, despite her authentic desire to cized diss track war, took to Twitter in just make her music, the label’s trying a rage. YOU ARE OR to make a star. Banks, who’s quite familiar with Twit- HOW YOU IDENTIFY By now, fans know the formula: a ter feuds, had called out Pharrell Wil- YOURSELF. feature here, a feature there, a single, a liams for his lack of support for their showcase, an EP, a cover and wait. An- collaboration “ATM Jam,” and she BLACK, WHITE, other song trickles out. Give it time to blamed her label for delaying her long- STRAIGHT, TRANS, catch on, and then hopefully it’s album forthcoming debut album. IT DOESN’T MATTER. time. “I don’t understand all that,” says Dirty Gold is proof of that timeline. Wilson in reference to Banks’ rant. “I SOMEONE HAS TO SAY The fire’s there. The skill is evident. But know I’m not in a position to criticize SOMETHING. it’s brimming with radio-ready, main- and I’m not trying to give my two cents stream-friendly material, clearly aiming in regards to her anyway, but there has for Macklemore’s territory, with uplift- to be a better way. I just can’t see myself ing lyrics and anthemic choruses. And doing that.” while it may seem outside of Wilson’s That’s not to say it’s easy for a young sphere to some, she’d actually like to artist—or any artist, for that matter— collaborate with the “” rap- to deal with a major label, as Wilson ” per, whose song she brilliantly covered quickly acknowledges. with her own personal experience. “I’ve only ever actively had a problem “I struggled with wanting to cover with one person and very instantly re- that song,” recalls Wilson, who is gretted that,” she admits. “I try not to openly . “I’m fairly moderate be a person who’s putting out negative about imposing my own views upon energy. And if I feel that my album is other people. I like to give everyone being delayed and it’s not my fault, I a chance to think for themselves, and have to try to understand where they’re that’s pretty much it for me. But I coming from. And I’ll be honest, that’s know that struggle and when I hear hard. So I get that. I really like Repub- from kids about how much they hated lic. I love my label. And they’ve given being gay or they hated being different, me the freedom that I’ve needed. But it struck me. I feel like, if I have been everything’s not perfect. You as an artist given a platform, this is a chance for me have a vision, and it’s not easy some- to say something and use it for good. times to accept that not everyone will It’s a chance for me to add my voice, as see what you see. They might have their someone who’s actually been there my- own vision, but it’s not yours.” self, letting people know, ‘Here’s why While Wilson’s battle over her vision you shouldn’t worry, because it will get versus the label’s might be an ongoing better.’” one, she recently earned the praise of While Macklemore has been criticized one of her , , who en-

42 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM is. Of course, Eminem just dropped his “I want to be known for my honesty, yet, and I’m still growing. album, and hands down, Eminem ranks and my relentlessness,” she reveals. “It’s “But I still want to be more. I know over anyone. Period. And those guys in- who I am as a person and it’s part of the I’m not perfect, but I’ve poured my heart spire me. They push me to try just a little message that I have. I want people to into this music. That’s the most impor- more.” know that, even if you piss some people tant thing to me, is just to spread that With a shaky launch into the main- off, you can be who and whatever the hell hope. Someone out there needs to know stream spotlight, Wilson’s latest chap- you want. That’s what my story is about. that they’re valuable and that they can ter will be a curious one to maneuver A person who comes from the fucking make it. When you have that on your through, but if she remains true to her- dirt who believes you can aspire to be conscience, you just can’t ignore that. self, she knows she’ll be fine. something better. I know I’m not there You just can’t.” n

44 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM BASTILLE OVERJOYED AND ABSOLUTELY UNSTOPPABLE

BY EMILY HULSEBERG

North America for the past few years tion of songs and not just a single.” has experienced a surge in great music The entire album is filled with great from across the pond, prompting many music. The second track “Things We music observers to refer to it as another Lost In The Fire” is a great follow- “British Invasion.” Whatever you call up from intro track “Pompeii,” while it, Bastille is certainly no exception. “Overjoyed” takes on a totally different The guys have been selling out U.S. set of emotions and draws the listener shows and getting tons of radio in closer. The highs and lows from the in a market many international acts ac- album show the depth of the band and knowledge as the toughest to break into. their diverse sound. With all the success, the band still has The new release,All This Bad Blood, is a a hard time believing it. “I think we’re reissue of the original album on disc one kind of – we’re quite thrilled about it and with some B-sides and new tracks on the we’re a bunch of realists,” says Smith. second disc. his year is already turning out “So I don’t think we ever imagined we’d “I think the thing with the reissue of to be a great one for English ever be coming to America and playing. the album…all the songs on there, I re- four-piece Bastille. The band “I think the thing with America is, it’s ally want to release properly. It’s a really Tjust released their deluxe album, All obviously such a vast country, and it’s so nice way to do that. It almost draws the This Bad Blood, and has four BRIT varied and I think the majority of the line to close this chapter and start the Awards nominations for the upcom- country, we’ve never visited. We’re just next one properly,” says Smith. ing ceremony on Feb. 19, tying for already lucky to have the opportunity to Despite an avalanche of success and a the most nods with producer duo even travel around America. To be able rapidly growing fan base across the glob, Disclosure. And of course, there’s to do it in the context of playing songs, the band’s next chapter is still unclear, the Jan. 25 episode of Saturday Night playing our music, is unbelievable.” even for Smith, who admits that it’s hard Live, in which the band serves as mu- The band’s first official release was to speculate about the future when the sical guest alongside host Jonah Hill. “Overjoyed.” The song found some suc- band could hardly anticipate their cur- 2013 catapulted the band into in- cess back home, but the single that really rent status. ternational stardom with their de- put the band on the international map, Of course, a new album is most defi- but album, Bad Blood, which earned so to speak, was “Pompeii,” an upbeat, nitely in the cards, the 26-year-old them the title of the U.K.’s top-sell- fun, sing-along type song that’s an ear- singer assures. In fact, he’s already begun ing debut act. It’s just one of count- worm for sure. This track was the cata- working on the new record. Ultimately, less chart-topping numbers for the lyst that propelled the band into main- the timeline will be impacted by other band that only formed in 2010. Their stream popularity. The song released in factors, but he suggests it will be sooner single “Pompeii” can be heard across February 2013 and hasn’t let up since. rather than later. the globe and has jumped from chart “It’s always been really important to us “I think if I was given the time, which to chart, reaching sales of nearly two to release a lot of music … the idea was I don’t think I have—I’d love to release million. And it really seems like this to make a bunch of songs we really like it this year. But we will have to wait and is just the jumping-off point. but that allowed us to kind of experi- see.” Frontman Dan Smith chatted with ment,” explains Smith. “The thing that Variance while he was in the States we found really gratifying in preparing for a series of promo shows was ‘Pompeii’ doing well, but then the Bastille’s deluxe album, All This Bad to discuss what’s next for a band that album did quite well, which means that Blood, is out now. For tour dates, go

PHOTO BY JESSE JENKINS is in such high demand. people hopefully really like the collec- to bastillebastille.com.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 45 JAMES VINCENT MCMORROW SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS

ure, we’re only weeks into 2014. But James Vincent McMorrow has already released one of the best albums of the year. His sophomore record, Post Tropical, marks a noted shift in sound, something many fans are quick to point out. SBut for 31-year-old McMorrow, whose birthday was the same day as the album’s stateside release, the only thing that matters is his fans finally having their hands on the record. “It’s a feeling of relief mixed with excitement and terror,” he says, speaking with Variance ahead of the album’s arrival. “It’s strange be- cause I’ve been living with it and thinking about it for years now, and I’ve been making it for so long. But then when it was finished, you kind of have to sit on your hands, almost—for seven, eight months, to do all the other parts of it, which are relatively unexciting but important.” Thankfully, the singer has had plenty on his plate in the meantime to keep him busy. JAMES VINCENT MCMORROW SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS

STORY BY JONATHAN ROBLES PHOTOS BY EMMA J DOYLE MAYBE“ SOME OF MY FANS WOULDN’T LISTEN TO DRAKE OR NEIL YOUNG OR PUSHA T, BUT THIS IS THE MUSIC I LOVE. SO I DRAW FROM IT AND THEN WATCH IT BECOME ITS OWN THING.

“We’ve had the rehearsals, traveling, from the depths of my soul,” I wasn’t talking to all the labels, making sure thinking about defying expectations or everything’s set up,” he recalls. “So you about people’s response. I just literally uu don’t really have time to think about wanted to make the best possible mu- the fact that a record is about to come sic. Whatever it was, was whatever it out. It didn’t hit me until recently, and was. I wasn’t thinking about where it I realized that everybody was about to would fit in or where it could go on a records exist and maybe some of hear it and people were about to start chart or how it would even relate to the my fans wouldn’t listen to Drake or talking about the songs on the record. It first record. It didn’t even occur to me Neil Young or Pusha T, but this is overwhelmed me in a way, but I’m just that someone might listen to it and go, the music I love. So I draw from it excited for people to finally be able to ‘Wow, these are big changes.’ I’m learn- and then watch it become its own hear it.” ing and growing as an artist, so I think thing.” Of course, the James Blake/Bon Iver/ it’s natural that I would want to apply Ultimately, McMorrow is trying to Alt-J comparisons are inevitable, as the the production with the knowledge that push music forward. And he hopes singer’s second offering veers from the I’ve learned, things that I understand for that’s what he is doing with this new folksy roots of freshman set Early in the the first time. People have to understand album. Morning to a majestic, glowing world of that musicians have to live and experi- “Sometimes we forget the context soul and synths. ence life between records, and that will for all the records that we love,” he While some may question his entry affect their music.” says. “We think that a record that into the column of alt-R&B, one thing The singer isn’t shy about admitting was made in 1950, 1960, was try- is true: The honest lyricism fans came the influence of others’ work on his ma- ing to be nostalgic. It was trying to love before is still there. In fact, with terial. In fact, he believes it’s unrealistic to be cutting-edge. Marvin Gaye those sweeping falsettos and soaring to claim otherwise. was the first to use a 808 on a com- vocals, the authenticity of the words “I’m a lover of music first,” he admits mercial record. Some people were spilling from his mouth only seems with ease. “So all the music that I love is like, ‘What’s going on? This is con- further highlighted. And according rattling around in my head. Of course, ceptual, it’s progressive.’ The label to McMorrow, one of Variance’s 2012 I wanted to walk into the studio with as struggled to release it because it was FutureSounds picks, it’s a natural little real estate taken in my head as pos- too far ahead of the curve. And even progression. sible, but it’s still in there. I remember James Jamerson; he was pushing the “I don’t think there was any thought on reading an article of Fiona Apple saying limits and I think that’s good for my part to challenging implications or she doesn’t listen to new music—and music. We need that.” ideas,” the singer explains of having pre- there are others who won’t listen to any As the new album has finally be- viously been lumped in with other after 1925 or something. They gun making its way to fans’ ears, singers. “I wasn’t trying to surprise any- don’t want new music to influence what McMorrow hopes it’s simple one, no. My instincts are always pretty they do. That’s not how I approached enough to make sense upon first lis- clear, and with this album, more than my album.” ten but complex enough to require anything, this is a completely unfiltered Instead, McMorrow sought to capture some effort. version of what I hear in my head and the inclinations of his own heart while “If people keep coming back to the what I would want to listen to and what marrying contrastable sounds. record and discovering something I wanted to make. People will make up “There are all sorts of songs that sparked new about it, then I know that I’ve their own minds when they hear it, but my creativity,” he recalls. “I remember done my job right,” he declares. “I I always call myself a soul singer.” listening to the Flying Lotus record, just hope it keeps giving back. And As McMorrow explains, it’s much dif- Until the Quiet Comes, and thinking, I hope that whatever people take ferent for those of us hearing the fin- ‘What a beautiful, densely-crafted re- away from it, that it resonates and ished product without having experi- cord.’ It amazed me that people don’t try that they’re able to carry it with enced the struggle of its creation or the to go for that production in my world. them as they go about their lives.” process from beginning to end. They don’t try to create these beauti- “It’s easy for people to hear an album ful, big productions. Instead, that’s over Post Tropical is out now in and go, ‘Here’s my opinion,’” he says. there and songwriting is over here, and North America. For McMor- “But when I’m the one actually mak- the two never meet. That was a catalyst row’s upcoming tour dates, go to ing the record, pulling those songs in my mind. I thought, these beautiful jamesvmcmorrow.com.

48 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM

Jon Bellion

50 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM { a brilliant visionary with the chops to back it up }

WRITTEN BY RACHEL FAYLENE // 4 “College Dropout is the reason why I lit- dirty and disgusting or completely nega- JON BELLION erally dropped out of college,” he reveals tive and dark. You can still be dope and is a young voice already making a big with a laugh. “I went to college for about still show people that it’s cool to be kind, impact with his skills and creating some a year, and I’d kind of reminiscence on that it’s cool to be nice to people, to be impressive opportunities for himself. His when that album came out. I was listen- good to them.” fearless mindset and numerous talents ing to it one day and literally there’s a Beyond that lasting message, Bellion have capture the attention of many in the couple of skits in [it] where this guy is feels that his efforts will continue to be music industry, as it’s becoming increas- talking about going to college and rack- appreciated long after the radio cycles ing clear that Bellion is an artist on the ing up debt, so then [he] can pass it on to and bloggers have moved on. verge of something new. [his] kid when he dies.” “I think people will look back on the “I produce and I write, I mix and I mas- And that’s when it hit Bellion. That’s records I’m making right now from an ter everything myself,” he tells Variance when he realized what he needed to do, eclectic standpoint and it’ll still sound on a cool winter morning. “I produce admitting that West’s record “struck a good,” he predicts with an unusually and direct all my videos and all that stuff. chord” with him. confident sense of humility. “I feel like The blogs just thankfully kind of picked “I’m like, ‘You know what? I’m in a that’s what can separate me. I think my up on it and dug what I was doing. music school [but] I’m learning what I records can stand up against what’s out Therefore, it kind of spread on its own. already kind of know,’” he recalls. “Be- right now, and they’ll see the time that It’s been really good.” cause I had already started years before I was put into the lyrics or the production, Most people at 22 years old are still went to college, so I was like, ‘Maybe it’s and they’ll see the growth from album to looking for a clue as to the next phase time for me to move on.’ I didn’t really album, to the care that I put into my mu- of their lives that might hopefully lead have a plan or anything, but I just had a sic. And I think it’s starting to catch on.” to another. Bellion, on the other hand, feeling to kind of – whatever. Exactly one He’s right about that. Following the has been sure of himself for some time year later, that’s when everything started debut of his mega-hit “The Monster,” now. He isn’t anxious trying to figure out really picking up. I got a full-time job. made famous by Eminem and Rihanna who he is or how he would like to pres- It was actually the best decision ever be- but written and produced by Bellion, he ent himself and his work. cause that year, all I really did was work released his own free album, The Sepa- “I started rapping way before I was sing- at a catering hall and just made beats for ration. And with it, he hopes to grab ing,” he explains. “So I kind of wanted to like a year straight, seven days a week, the attention of the masses and compel do a record that’s reminiscent of some- eight hours a day. It was going to work them to listen to what makes him stand thing super urban or something that and then work on beats. So that album out from the crowded pop music scene shows the side of me that tells you, ‘No, (Dropout) actually inspired me to really today. I’m not just a kid who writes pop records’ go for it, really chase the dream.” Even after accomplishing what most or ‘I’m not a kid who your girlfriend Exercising one’s talent and realizing its artists might consider a breakthrough, likes.’ I’m a dude at the same time. I also life-altering potential are two very sepa- Bellion carefully proceeding onward, have testosterone. I’m not just thinking rate things though. Bellion may dream stressing the importance of refining your about happy-go-lucky type things. I’m big, but he also stresses that his ultimate skills and growing as a serious artist. not afraid to be the cool kid. But I also message is a humble one. “I’m still perfecting my craft,” he ad- want to let kids know you don’t have to “Music is just going to be a vessel for mits. “I’m still getting better at what I’m stay in a box.” me,” the young multi-hyphenate ex- doing. I’m still getting better at relaying Bellion has confidently allowed his in- plains. “I feel like once I have the masses messages through music. That’s what the fluences guide him toward a more active – and I know I’m talking really insanely craft is. And you’ve got to work on it. But approach to his passion and away from prophetically, and I sound like a nut- when you know what your message is theory. As many liberal arts students are case right now, but this is kind of just and why you’re doing it, when you have beginning to realize, he found it was im- to get people to listen to what I’m say- that vision, you can’t fail.” portant to weigh his drive and ability ing. I have something to say. Music’s just against an all-too-formal pass at his craft. my medium. One day, I want to tell 4 And for that, he cites Kanye West’s debut million people that compassion is every- For the latest updates from Bellion, album, The College Dropout, released 10 thing. There’s a bigger picture, and it’s all follow him on Twitter: @jonbellion. years ago this month, as one of his great- for God. It’s not really for me. I could Expect a full-length album from him est inspirations. show people that you don’t have to be later this year.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 51 BY AARON LACHMAN

a rmed since 1997 with only an analog, four- track tape recorder, Ma- son Jennings has been re- cording and releasing his rootsy, folk-pop accord- ing to no one’s rules but his own. So when Jen- nings started writing for his latest album, Always Been, he returned to the basics that brought him success in the first place. Retreating to the back room of his cabin stu- dio in the woods, bring- ing only a guitar, piano, books, and a tape record- er with just one 90-min- ute cassette inside, Jen- nings crafted new songs all winter long. He took time to slow down and concentrate on the song- writing. “I spent some time there just working really on the writing part of it,” he reveals. “The last couple of records I had made with the computer in front of me and done a lot of recording of the instruments all myself, so

52 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM MASON JENNINGS

for this writing process I got rid of the computer and just kind of holed up with a guitar and a piano and a cassette recorder. Just spent a lot of time writing the songs with a note- book and just working on the song part before I even thought about the recording part.” year, and those records were bum, but also a lot of pain. Slowing down helped Jennings right at the top of the list, so It’s important for Jennings to rethink his approach to making I thought, ‘He’s the common be open with his songwriting, records. Separating the writing pro- name on the back of those re- as he says he is “trying to get cess from the recording also helped cords. I should check in with the full spectrum of human him avoid getting wrapped up in him and see if he’d be inter- emotion.” And it shows on getting an idea down too quickly. ested in helping.’” the record. “In the past, I’d write a song and Having an outside producer “I’m always looking to have then I’d record it, and I’d get kind allowed Jennings to focus less as much contrast as you pos- of attached to the parts. I’d get at- on the overall product and sibly can within a piece of tached to the drum part or I’d get at- concentrate on giving the art, whether it be a photo- tached to the guitar part, and then I best vocal and graph or a book. I like things wouldn’t want to really go back and performances he could. to have real dark darks and mess with it too much. But if you “It made me really have to light ,” Jennings says. stay at that part where the song is gain some clarity with my He wants his songs to con- still malleable and not connected to performances and with every nect with people, so he puts an actual recording, then it’s a little song,” Jennings recalls. “We his heart and soul into his easier to change.” spent the time to go into a music. Even while he’s on Known for his self-recorded al- studio and I’m there with the road supporting the new bums, Jennings really wanted to other people, and … it’s the record, which was released take a different approach with time to record the song right in November, he’s constantly Always Been, explaining that he “felt now; for me, it was a situa- working on new songs, and like I kind of hit the end of a certain tion where I definitely felt exploring new ways to bring path I was on. I had made three or like I had to step up.” people together. four records in a row that were re- In the past, working alone, Ultimately, Jennings is blunt ally heavily based on working on my Jennings could take plenty about his mission statement own, and I sort of got to this spot of time to perfect his record- with his latest effort: “I hope where it wasn’t really flowing as nat- ings. Working on a tight stu- it somehow connects and urally.” He continues: “I thought, dio schedule forced Jennings maybe gives [listeners] the ‘Well, that usually is a good sign to to pull out his best perfor- sense that they’re not alone. try something different and to see if mances on the fly, making For me, that’s the beauty of something else lights up.’ And this for a raw, honest sounding music. I constantly turn to pathway lit up for me.” record where the songwriting music for just that comfort, Instead of recording on his own, takes center stage. Ramsey [and] also inspiration, but this time Jennings chose to record even brought in some of Jen- deep down, that feeling of in- with producer Bo Ramsey, whose nings’ favorites to play on the terconnectedness and hope. work he admired from previously record, including the previ- I hope that I can help in the projects with Greg Brown, The Pines ously mentioned DeMent, way that I’ve been helped by and Iris DeMent. He says, “When I Brown and members of The music.” was thinking about producing this, Pines. I looked through my record collec- There’s a lot of honesty on Jennings is on tour now tion and was just checking out what Always Been. There are plenty through May. For dates, go

PHOTO BY BENSON RAMSEY I probably listened to the most this of uplifting songs on the al- to masonjennings.com.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 53 ERINN WESTBROOK

BY MERLYN HAMILTON

has been in American homes. From equal- ity to drug use and gun violence in our schools, Glee has brought attention to is- sues that most families would not normally discuss. And despite the show’s flagging ratings and recent criticisms, Westbrook is looking at the big picture. “I’m so excited to be part of a show that has carried that torch and will continue to bring forth relevant issues to the table,” says Westbrook. “I think it gives people things to discuss and it makes those harder issues a little bit easier to talk about and to focus on. In a time where you can’t just ignore lots of the things that are being dealt with on Glee, it sets the stage for really interest- ing discussion and it opens people’s eyes. So anything I can do to be a part of something that is pushing the envelope and making f Glee’s newest Cheerio, Bree, looks I think that character would do,” West- people think and become a little bit more really familiar, perhaps you recog- brook says. “[People ask me], ‘How do open-minded, I’m certainly all for it and nize her from MTV’s Spring Break. you prepare for such a mean role and I’m really happy to be part of the Glee fam- IOr maybe you saw her in Cosmopolitan character’ and I’m just like, I’m sort of ily in that regard.” or Seventeen. Regardless of where you’ve doing my own thing. I guess I’m just Despite the open diversity on Glee, not all seen her, it’s undeniable that Erinn West- drawing from actresses I’ve watched sort shows have embraced that principle. NBC’s brook has a face and a personality that is of consciously, perhaps I’m drawing from Saturday Night Live last year found itself at not easily forgotten. them, but I just am throwing myself into the center of ongoing criticism over their Even though it may seem strange to the part and am having fun and doing lack of black female players. It was further some that this actress followed her par- what I feel in the moment. I mean, the highlighted last November when Scandal ents’ footsteps and graduated from Har- writing is great so really it’s about memo- star Kerry Washington hosted the sketch vard, Westbrook admits that there has rizing the lines and then sort of bringing comedy show and brought attention to always been a plan. in my own sort of feistiness and interpre- their lack of diversity. Weeks later, the show “I’ve always explored exactly what I’ve tation to the character.” began casting calls for an African-American been interested in and journalism was While some actors may have been ap- woman to join the cast. definitely an interest of mine,” she tells prehensive about starting on a show as “I think that diversity is certainly very im- Variance. “I interned at Allure magazine established as Glee, Westbrook was not. portant,” Westbrook agrees. “I mean, at a and Vogue magazine, and I’ve always had ”I feel really blessed and inspired to be time like today, clearly Kerry Washington an interest in fashion and fashion jour- with this cast and ... I admire everybody is holding her own on that show (Scandal) nalism, but acting was always sort of my I work with,” she says. “So it’s been truly and that’s not a comedy, so you can see that primary goal and it’s something that I a remarkable experience so far, and I she can do a whole bunch of things and see always wanted to explore more seriously would say, it terms of the fan base, it’s that African-American women and differ- upon graduating.” overwhelming, but in the best kind of ent women in general can—they’re bring- She certainly did explore it more seri- way. Really, people have expectations as ing lots of different things to the table. But ously. Known perhaps for her roles on the new girl, sort of all eyes are on you yeah, in terms of diversity, it’s clearly very the television series such as Movers & and what you’re going to do, and what important. It’s clearly important to Glee Changers and Mr. Box Office, Westbrook you’re going to bring to the table. Some and I’m happy to be bringing something recently joined the Glee roster as Bree, people are going to like it, some people different, not just as an African-American the newest mean girl. So how does she aren’t. [You] have to do your thing and girl, but as Erinn basically, and I think turn off the “mean girl” when she’s not do your best and hope for the best. And that’s the most important thing.” in front of the camera? I [don’t think I’ve] let the fans down. I’m “I think as actors, there’s really no—I excited about it.” To follow Erinn Westbrook’s latest guess there’s a switch [but] I’m just hav- With less than two seasons left, there is moves, look to her Twitter account: ing fun and performing and doing what no denying how monumental the show @EriVeronica. PHOTO BY BOBBY QUILLARD

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tatemusicgroup.com REALITY CHECK: Singing Competition Overload

BY ABBY OLSEN

happened,” confesses Nadia Cole of the trio Voices of Glory, finalists during the fourth season of Talent. “We’ve seen some of those who we thought got a better deal waste it or do nothing with it. We actually appreciate ith the recent return of Amer- winner with Adam Lambert or Clay [having gone] the independent route.” ican Idol for its 13th—or as Aiken-level success would be nice. Having enjoyed the spotlight of national Fox calls it, XIII—season and According to host Carson Daly, pro- television, Voices now maintains a per- WThe Voice soon kicking off round six, ducing a superstar isn’t the show’s main forming residency in Branson. But their singing competitions will once again rule concern, telling Oprah Winfrey in June journey only backs up Mayfield and Daly’s the airwaves. that it’s on the artists to find their own arguments, that the temporary celebrity In a crowded and fatigued market, both success, which “doesn’t come without status won’t benefit everyone. shows are facing challenges. Idol is trying work. Luck favors the prepared.” As ratings likely continue to tumble and to plug its leak of viewers after a 23% de- While that much is true, it seems NBC focus remains on judges (or coaches) rather cline last year from season 11, which was has taken notice of its lack of star power than contestants—or the music, for that already down double digits as it is. Sev- among Voice alumni, incorporating per- matter—are singing competitions on their eral years of musical chairs on the judges formances from past contestants during way out? Unlike the GRAMMYs, which re- panel haven’t helped either, and the well- the live shows and embedding music juvenated its ratings decline recently thanks documented Mariah Carey- from recent winner Danielle Bradbery in to major superstar performances and un- feud only emboldened that problem. promos for the upcoming Olympics, not usual collaborations, these shows go on for Meanwhile, has all but an- to mention a more prominent partner- weeks at a time. It’s one thing to engage an chored NBC outside of football. The ship with Republic Records to push the audience for “Music’s Biggest Night,” com- show is now regularly used to launch finalists’ songs harder. pared to 12-15 weeks. other programs on the network or help Nonetheless, with all the resources And that’s just it. Idol and Voice don’t lack failing ones, as was seen last fall when available to artists now, compared to 12 for star power. That’s not the problem. But the Peacock had the chair-turning show years ago when Idol premiered, are mu- in the age of and DVR and Hulu, airing three nights a week in hopes of sicians wising up to the reality of these live TV just isn’t as important. In the age boosting its comedy lineup. But there “reality” shows? of Twitter and and YouTube, vot- may be trouble ahead. “I don’t want fame without true fans,” ing 100 times for a boy playing his gui- Bromance duo Blake Shelton and Adam DIY standout Matthew Mayfield told tar to maybe be the next big thing isn’t as Levine are only contracted through the Variance last year, in response to friends important. upcoming season, which will premiere having urged him to try out for The Right now, viewers—at least the ones that Feb. 24 following NBC’s non-stop pro- Voice. “One minute you’re flying high, matter to advertisers—aren’t connected. mo fest during the Winter Olympics. the next you’re doing commercials for They’re not invested in the show. They don’t And after a stratospheric climb, Voice the local car dealership. I’d rather jump feel like their own “voice” matters. But one ratings have mostly stabilized, actually off a building.” only needs to look at this past season of The dropping off a bit during its fall run. Between Idol, Voice, The Sing-Off, X Voice for a glimmer of hope. So will Shelton and Levine return for a Factor and America’s Got Talent, there The show began testing real-time voting seventh season? Granted, with two sea- have been more than 400 so-called fi- on Twitter using hashtags to “save” some- sons a year, it’s only been three years. But nalists vying for their respective show’s one who would otherwise go home. With they would certainly expect pay hikes. crown since 2002. And props to you only a five-minute window, fans watching Or perhaps it’s time to move on. Both if you can name 10 of them without live could tweet their selection and there- of their careers have surged because of Google. fore impact the show’s results immediately. the show, and they’d be fine without it Despite the saturation of singing con- Gimmicky? Sure. But it’s a start. should they choose to exit. But would testants, some of them have been able Ultimately, if these shows are to survive, the show be fine without them? to make the most of their situation and the key is audience engagement. For now, Of course, The Voice also has another many times end up better off than their music lovers have plenty of other options to glaring issue: Where are its Kelly Clark- competitors. discover new tunes and artists. And maybe sons and Carrie Underwoods? Even a “We wouldn’t change anything that’s that’s for the best anyway.

56 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM Good music makes good times.

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