If you like your rock music with a touch of Americana, British musician Nix Dadry could be your new favourite artist! It’s been a while since we last caught up with Nix, but his release Kiss the Dirt really caught my attention – give it a go at the end of this interview if you’ve not checked it out yet!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a new single titled Kiss the Dirt. What can you tell us about the song?
It’s a love song about two people who have nothing but each other. The idea is to strip away materialism and focus on what’s important. Musically, it’s very organic – featuring piano, acoustic guitar and strings. A departure from my rock material.
How has the reception to Kiss the Dirt been so far, and where can it be purchased?
It’s been surprisingly great. I had the feeling my audience only like me doing heavy rock, but I’m glad half of them like it! One of my musician friends described it as “gorgeous”, which means a lot. I’ve enjoyed reading the reviews by online magazines too. It can be purchased on Bandcamp, iTunes & Amazon.
Do you have any more singles planned for release soon?
Yes I do. As you know, Kiss The Dirt was produced by Ed Harcourt at his studio (The Wolf Cabin). We’re planning to record another song. Subject wise, something quite dark. The flavour will be heavy blues rock with a grunge taste and maybe some Spanish vibes thrown in!
Do you have any plans to release an album or EP in the near future?
I have some ideas for a possible EP. In recent times, I’ve been releasing a lot of chilled out acoustic stuff. The next project will be like going back to the streets. Dirty rock ‘n’ roll!
You’re a solo artist without a permanent backing band. Would you ever want to hire a permanent backing band in the near future?
Ideally permanent, yes. I have hired people now and then. We’re on a friendly basis. I just can’t do it all the time. The main reason is money. They do this for a living and paying them is very important. The other reason is, the musicians have their own projects going on. Whenever there’s an opportunity to get together for a gig, we definitely will. Other times, I play solo acoustic sets which include plenty of upbeat numbers.
Your music has a folk-rock sound. What/who are you most influenced by? What have you been listening to recently?
Usually folk, blues, soul, rock & country. Of course, some legendary names are what got me started, but they’ve all had their time. I love them for what they were but not what they are. They’ve become brands as opposed to bands. Recently, I’d say 90% of my listening is music made by newer, underrated people. These include: Loup Garoux, Brother Dege, Redlight King, Alex Lipinski, Black Pumas & The Mayblues.
Where are you based? What is the local music scene like in your area at the moment?
West Midlands, UK. It’s pretty good but I haven’t experienced an actual scene lately. These tend to happen in pockets. I appreciate the creative community I’ve got to know in this area. Other than musicians, there are filmmakers, photographers, visual artists & producers. It’s been great collaborating with all of them.
Do you have anything else exciting coming up over the next few months?
There’s a lyric video coming for Kiss The Dirt and I’ll be prepping my next single. To accompany it, I’m discussing the cover art with a brilliant London-based artist named Richard Ricochet. Perhaps I’ll look at making an official music video for it. I’m also planning on getting some merchandise made.
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
I’d love to play some festivals but it’s virtually impossible to get a slot! Hopefully, there’ll be a few support opportunities with other artists/bands I’ve got to know.
Any last words for the fans?
Thank you for listening to Kiss The Dirt. While you’re there, check out my other tunes. There are plenty to get your teeth into!