Wanaka is an intriguing Israeli artist, who recently released a captivating new tune called When I Die. I really enjoyed the track and felt it was rather different from the norm, so I decided to review it. You can find a stream at the end of this interview if you missed it!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a single titled When I Die. What can you tell us about the song?
It’s a song that talks about a planned death at the end of the road and the thoughts of the close ones after the act.
Where can When I Die be purchased and how has the reception been so far?
The reception has been really positive, especially among the more vintage 90s fans. It can be purchased on my website (wanakaband.com) as well as Amazon and iTunes.
You also released a track recently called Another Spoon. What can you tell us about that song and what does the title refer to?
Another Spoon refers to a spoon used for heroin use, it’s a song about substance abuse and the destructive effects it has on relationships.
An album is being released this December. What can we expect from the album?
It’s a very diverse album named Beneath The Surface, from folk/acoustic tracks accompanied with a cello to electric guitars, grunge, pop rock and blues. It’s an album full of emotions, lyrically and instrumentally.
Do you plan to release any more singles anytime soon?
Another Spoon is the last single before the album release in December, but there are several track in the pipeline awaiting recording and production. Hopefully I will release a new single a couple of months after the album release.
Has the pandemic hindered your work much?
Absolutely! Several songs on the album have been partially influenced by the pandemic.
Where are you based? What is the local music scene like where you are?
I’m based in Israel these days, we have a very diverse music scene here, a lot of very talented musicians. I expect you will be hearing about Israeli artists more and more in the near future.
Your music mixes together alt rock, grunge and folk, making for an eclectic mix. What/who influences you most as artists? What have you been listening to recently?
The artists that have influenced me the most are Nirvana, Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, Pearl Jam, Queen, Metallica and many others from the same era. Lately I’ve been listening a lot to Iron & Wine, as well as the new Eddie Vedder album.
Do you have any plans to tour in the UK?
I really want to tour in the UK at some point soon, but I do not have any timeline for that at the moment.
Any last words for the fans?
Recycle, eat less meat and keep on rocking!