After spending the last few years building and cultivating their sound, Phoenix-based newcomers Big Yard are now ready to introduce themselves to the wider world with their vibrant debut single 'Proof'.
Featuring singer-songwriter Darryl Scotti, an accomplished musician and former guitarist for Spiral Starecase, alongside Alex Chacon and Aaron Howard, 'Proof' makes for a rousing introduction to their dynamic direction so far. With its rich and shimmering textures set to some euphoric vocals from start to finish, they are kicking things off with a brilliantly fresh and inventive opening number here.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with the band's Darryl Scotti to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Guitar. However my mother, in early childhood, wanted me to play Violin and/or Piano. The Beatles changed that for better or worse.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I first fell in love with Rock & Roll listening to early Chuck Berry, Elvis Presley, Little Richard, Bobby Darin and the like, from that era on my transistor radio, falling to sleep at night. But my first introduction to music and performance was in church and the choir.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The Blues Project. Many many more were to follow.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Yesterday - John Lennon and Paul McCartney
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
My songwriting comes in different ways. Sometimes it’s lyrical, others it’s melodic and still others it’s a musical riff. All of them come at different times but mostly in the studio, recording a new song or practicing.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
The Head and The Heart, Marcus Mumford, Mat Kearney, Ben Rector, Nathaniel Ratliff & The Night Sweats, Todd Rundgren, Sting, Steely Dan.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Hands down…. STING
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The creative outlet, the collaboration with other songwriters and producers but most of all the fans and music lovers.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The multiple hats that need to be worn that take away time from creating.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Never give up and to love your fate.
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Big Yard's new single 'Proof' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.