After spending the last few years unveiling a wealth of fresh and uplifting delights, London-based singer and songwriter Mari Dangerfield has now crossed the first major milestone of her career so far by releasing her stunning debut album 'Love And Other Machines'.
Mixing a light and upbeat variety of alt-pop and synthwave aesthetics from start to finish, 'Love And Other Machines' makes for a wonderfully compelling listen. Filled with rich and bouncing textures, a breezy atmosphere, and her own sweeping voice layered throughout, she is certainly defining herself with this vivid sound on here.
So with the new album out now, we sat down with her to find out more about her background and what has inspired her most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I think I fell in love with the piano and cello at about the same time! I was only allowed to pick one to learn first though so went with the cello.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I grew up with lots of different music - classical and 60s-80s that my dad listened to, Fado/Portuguese artists from my mum, musicals and the kind of music that was hot as I was growing up in the late 90s/early 2000s.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I think it was either Spice World by the Spice Girls or Aquarium by Aqua.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Tough question! Imagine by John Lennon.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I have a lot of voice memos on the go with little ideas, notes as well. Then it’s about being disciplined and finishing them off as much as I can, usually at the piano.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
At the moment I’ve been listening to Chvrches’ new album a lot and I’ve just gone back to one of my regular all-time favourites - Laundry Service by Shakira. Also just started listening to the new ABBA album.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I would love to open for Let’s Eat Grandma. I’ve been a huge fan of theirs from the start.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part is being able to connect with other people in a meaningful way - whether that’s in a working environment with your collaborators or on stage having fun and moving the audience.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part is the gatekeeping and unethical levels of pay towards all creatives in the industry.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The key thing that comes up time and again is to persist no matter what.
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Mari Dangerfield's debut album 'Love And Other Machines' is available to stream and download now. Check it out in full via the player below.