Interview: Boy & Bear
Boy & Bear was formed in 2009, so they’re still a new band. Although three of the members have fronted bands earlier, so what you can expect from them is a great mix of the best from the previous bands, lyrically and musically. They’re currently touring UK, supporting Laura Marling and are supporting Lisa Mitchell on her Australia tour in May.
Boy & Bear released “With Emperor Antarctica” EP on May 7th, through Island Records Australia.
So, what’s the story behind Boy & Bear?
Boy & Bear is the result of a bunch of guys from different bands getting together to create a new project. I was doing a solo project (Dave Hosking), Jake was playing for a band called ACM and Killian and Tim where the front men of their respective projects. We used to support each others shows etc etc until slowly we started playing together and eventually named the project boy & Bear.
What’s your musical background?
My musical background isn’t overly exciting. I grew up in a music loving household, Mum and Dad where always playing James Taylor, Crowded house, Carol King, CSNY, bread as well as a bit of America etc etc.
How would you describe your music?
I would describe our music as a hybrid of indie folk, as well as some fairly punchy rock elements and of course smothered in vocals. We love singing, it seems the ‘It’ thing right now but in a weird way thats worked out well for us. Everyone in the band sings, and thats our favorite part of all this.
What is your favourite song you’ve written and recorded so far and why?
Thats a tough one to answer. It tends to shift on a weekly basis. Though technically youve made it a little easier for me as we’ve only recorded a few songs. Though, as released on Sunday, my favourite at the moment would be ‘Rabbit song’. I can’t put my finger on it i just like it!
What’s your biggest musical influence?
I couldn’t sit here and say I didn’t get into that wonderful Fleet foxes record that came out last year and hence their influence is strong and possibly right now the biggest. I must all say that James Taylor got fairly ingrained into my system as it was definitely the soundtrack to my child hood!
You are currently touring Ireland and the UK, supporting Laura Marling. How is it?
Very cool, Im currently writing this in a beautiful old building in Glasgow UK. Life could be worse! ha. Tour has been great!
What are your plans for 2010?
Release the EP, Laura Marling tour, Lisa Mitchell Tour, our own headline tour and then getting ready for an Album… fingers crossed.
Rabbit Song
Follow Boy & Bear on MySpace and triple j unearthed.
