After an incredible spout of shows at The Great Escape Festival this year, Julia Jacklin’s sound is one we have fallen in love with. The Aussie singer-songwiter plays a country/folk rock sound that we cannot get enough of, especially after the release of her exceptional debut album, Don’t Let The Kids Win. Playing a mix of songs on her own and with her band, you too will have the chance to see this new talent as she tours the UK supporting Whitney. We put some questions to Julia to find out more about her.
Where did you grow up?
The Blue Mountains, Australia.
Is there much of a music scene there?
I’m not sure what it’s like now, I haven’t lived there for a long time. There’s not many venues though, so there’s limited options to play. I think most people drive to the city for regular gigs.
What kind of music were you brought up on?
A pretty broad mix. The major ones my Dad listened to; Billy Bragg, Led Zeppelin, The Cure and Bjork. Then my Mum listened to Doris Day, The Andrew Sisters, and Luka Bloom.
Can you remember the first album you bought?
I think it was Astro Lounge by Smash Mouth.
What was the first instrument you played and do you have a favourite?
It was the alto saxophone in the high school training band when I was 13. My favourite instrument is the trombone. But I don’t want to try and play it, I just want to watch other people play it.
What drives you to write music?
Not sure! Just started happening and I kept at it. Can’t imagine not doing it now. If I need to express something but spoken words feel inadequate, that’s always a driver.
Has your style of music stayed the same?
It’s always been on the folk side of things but it’s changed into a different kind of folk from when I first started writing.
When did you start writing music as Julia Jacklin?
Would have been about four years ago. But I wrote for a bit in a band before that.
What inspires your lyrics?
Small moments in my life or things I observe on public transport mainly.
How do you approach the writing?
I need to be alone for sure. Usually it’s while I’m driving, in the shower or the rare times I have a room to myself on tour or when the housemates are out. I need the space and privacy to make mistakes and to make up lyrics on the spot and not feel embarrassed.
Do you prefer writing music or performing live?
Depends on the day, I want to write at the moment, but that’s probably because I’ve been on tour for a while and I’m a bit tired.
What has been a musical eye-opener?
Watching Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds a few years ago made me want to be a bit more fearless on stage and in life. And not worry about sweating.
What makes you happiest when you are not playing music?
Walking around my neighbourhood without my phone. Sitting in my lounge talking with my housemates. Watching Dawson’s Creek with my little brother.
What music are you listening to at the moment?
I have literally been listening to Art Angels by Grimes for the last five weeks because it’s the only thing on my phone. But I really like that album.
Do you get to go to many gigs?
I haven't been to many I haven’t played in the last two months unfortunately but I played with Big Thief in Germany a few weeks ago and they were incredible.
Read our review of her debut album Don’t Let The Kids Win here: http://brightonsfinest.com/html/index.php/12-music/1854-julia-jacklin-don-t-let-the-kids-win
Website: JuliaJacklin.com
Facebook: facebook.com/JuliaJacklin
Twitter: twitter.com/JuliaJacklin