Naked Face is a youthful electro-pop band from Melbourne, but they also include a lot of other elements in their music, making for quite an eclectic sound! I reviewed their track, Eyes in Love, earlier this year, and absolutely loved it. If you’d like to find your new favourite band, you can’t go wrong with Naked Face!
By Jane Howkins
You released a single titled Eyes in Love. What can you tell us about the track?
The track is an energetic electro-pop dance song that was written by our lead vocalist, Steve Slik. The lyrics delve into his journey, navigating through a tumultuous past relationship and struggles with post-surgical painkiller addiction.
How has the reception to Eyes in Love been so far, and where can the song be purchased?
The reception for Eyes in Love has been exceptionally positive, captivating a global audience of new listeners and garnering extensive coverage in various blogs and magazines. The song is available for purchase on popular platforms such as iTunes, Bandcamp and Amazon Music.
Do you plan to release any more singles anytime soon?
Absolutely! We are planning to release another three singles this year, and potentially an EP by the end of the year. Our next single is looking like it will be released in eight weeks. We are super excited and keen for what’s coming.
Are there any plans to release a full-length album or an EP in the near future?
We are hoping to be releasing an EP by the end of this year or at the start of 2024. As for an album, we won’t be looking into that anytime soon.
Your music has an anthemic electro-pop sound. What/who influences you most as an artist? What have you been listening to recently?
We’re gonna pass this answer to Steve Slik.
Steve Slik:
“My songwriting is heavily influenced by my life experiences, serving as my primary inspiration. I tend to draw inspiration from my current circumstances and emotional state, often leaning towards melancholic themes. I strongly believe that sharing my personal experiences through my music can provide comfort and reassurance to those facing similar challenges, letting them know that they are not alone.”
How do you manage to create such a full sound as a duo? What is the writing and recording process like?
Steve Slik: “All the songs are written and produced by myself and my father James Babbs. We’re somewhat of a songwriting duo. These days all of our music is recorded, and produced in our home studio which we call Beach Punk Records. I usually write the music, my father mostly writes the lyrics and we both write the melodies. However there are times when it overlaps and I’ll write more of the lyrics, and him the melody. There have even been some songs where he has completely written the lyrics and melody, and I only the music. And some other songs that I have completely written myself with minimal input from dad. It depends on the day and the song. I do prefer his lyric writing to mine, as he has a very poetic way of writing. It’s a little cryptic and deep and allows for many different interpretations of the meaning behind the lyrics. It’s never straightforward, and it makes the audience think. I hope to be able to write like that in the future.
Luke, our bassist, is slowly getting more involved in the recording process of the tracks. He plays live bass in more recent songs including the bassline for Eyes in Love, in which he helped produce the verse bassline with us. He is an exceptional bassist and guitarist with an excellent ear for music. He is a crucial role in our live act, as his stage presence and performing abilities are electrifying.
Do you have anything else exciting coming up this year?
We’re excited to re-releasing a bunch more material this year. We are collaborating with a very well-known producer in the industry for our next single. They will be mixing the track, so we are super excited about that.
You’re from Melbourne. How is the local music scene faring at the moment?
Indeed, we originate from Melbourne, Australia. Our local music scene boasts a distinctive character; however, it has experienced a substantial decline following the events of the Covid-19 pandemic. The once thriving live music culture has waned significantly, losing its widespread popularity. Moreover, there is a disheartening trend emerging, with several renowned and historic live venues facing imminent closure and potential sale. This situation is particularly dismaying, given the abundance of exceptionally talented yet underrated artists in Melbourne. We aspire to introduce innovative elements to the music landscape, with the hope of revitalising and rekindling the vibrancy of the scene.
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
We do not currently have any confirmed tour dates; however, we are considering the possibility of touring in the UK over the next year. The UK holds a special place in our hearts; we cherish and love its people, culture, architecture, landscape, and football, as our lead singer, Steve is a devoted Manchester United supporter. Most of our favourite musical artists, actors, TV shows and movies are also from the UK. The opportunity to tour the UK would be a dream come true for us!
Any last words for the fans?
To our fans, we can’t thank you enough for your love and support. We do this for you and we will always continue to. You are the reason we make music. We love you!
Love from Naked Face