York-based artist J. J. Chamberlain brings a fresh new sound to the indie genre, as his release Thoughts makes for a delightful piece of music. The vocals are dreamy, followed by some pretty little guitar motifs, as well as a nice hook, sure to draw you in in no time! J. J. also has a big gig coming up at The Fulford Arms in York on November 9th – find out more in out interview below!
By Jane Howkins
You recently released a new single titled Thoughts. What can you tell us about the song? It’s quite a unique track!
Thoughts was conceived over a decade ago after a terrible, life altering event. It took on many forms as a song, but it never felt right until now. What I like about it, and what made me finally accept that the project was complete and ready, is that it’s got that fine balance of poshness and rawness. I was looking for a sound to match the complex contrast of emotions that I was experiencing, and I feel that I finally achieved that.
How has the reception to Thoughts been so far, and where can it be purchased?
I’m actually really pleased with the reception so far! My last single, Eyeballs, surpassed my expectations in how many streams it received in the first few weeks of the campaign, and Thoughts seems to have even more traction. What’ll help further are the upcoming gigs, I have a fantastic band ready to go!
Do you have any more singles planned for release soon?
Well, I actually released another single in August as my song Imposter Syndrome appeared on Cross-Atlantic Transmissions, an album put together by my friends in Atlanta, GA with contributions from both UK and US artists. You can only hear it via my Bandcamp at the moment, but I will be increasing access in the future.
Are there any plans to release an album or EP anytime soon?
Yes, absolutely. My debut album is very nearly done. I’m now getting to the point where I’m trying to work out the best order of songs and how well each track sits with the next.
Your music has a pop-rock/indie-rock sound. What/who are you most influenced by? What have you been listening to recently?
Personally my influences come from early 90s alternative rock and grunge music, but I have been listening to quite a lot of Manchester bands recently. I tend to go through phases of Joy Division through to New Order and The Fall and then onto The Stone Roses. In the summer I played lead guitar for Mich Dulce and Her Midnight Callers at the Tim Peeks stage at Kendal Calling, and seeing A Certain Ratio and Tim Burgess sent me off down the rabbit hole of northern indie.
You’re based in York! What are your thoughts on the local music scene in the area?
York is special! It’s a wonderful place for guitar music. I’ve met so many talented people here, some of whom have that rare talent. It’s always fun to see random people’s reactions to your friend’s performance when you know they have a voice or a sound that’s unforgettable. Eyes bulge, jaws drop. It’s great to see!
I grew up in West Yorkshire, but I was moved to London as a teenager. Moving back to York has really lit me up as a musician. Before coming here, I would rarely perform alone, but with the encouragement of other musicians and revellers here, I’ve transitioned from just fronting a band to being a proper solo act.
We could do with more music venues though! It’s a nationwide problem but we’re missing a Fibbers here.
Do you have anything else exciting coming up over the next few months?
It’s time to finish the album once and for all! I’m also on the lookout for venues up and down the country for new tour dates. I’m hoping to put together a UK tour so if you venues/promoters/owners or agents like what you hear then give me a shout!
And of course, a very special gig at The Fulford Arms on November 9th!
You recently performed at the Kendal Calling festival. What was that like? How do festivals compare to normal gigs?
Kendal was amazing, it’s a really friendly festival, there were so many families there, it felt safe, and the setting is idyllic. The Tim Peeks stage was my favourite, not just because we played there, but also because of the quality of the line ups. It’s one of those stages that pulls you back to it even though you’re trying to go to the main stage to see a band.
Do you have any tour dates lined up for the UK?
Watch this space for more announcements soon!
Any last words for the fans?
Just a massive and heartfelt thank you. It means so much to me that something I created in my home studio has reached so many people. It’s really encouraging and I hope Thoughts continues to resonate, it’s an important message that we can all relate to, one way or another.