Known for their larger-than-life energy, ambitious adventures, and growing reputation across the Welsh music scene, Misha and the Kings have quickly become one of the most talked-about emerging bands in the country. From turning a crowdfunded journey to San Marino into a national headline to building a loyal following through their dynamic live performances, the Aberystwyth four-piece have never been afraid to do things their own way.
With the release of their debut album 'Too Hot' the band reveal a different side of their artistry through standout track 'Ecstasy', a thoughtful and cinematic exploration of temptation, loyalty, and the choices that define us.
So with the new album out now, we sat down with the band's drummer and producer Ivan and lead singer Misha to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
IVAN: The first instrument I truly fell in love with was the drums. I'd played other instruments before that — starting on the organ, then the trumpet and later the piano — but those were instruments I more or less fell into through circumstance, encouragement or opportunity.
The drums were different. They were the first instrument I actively chose for myself. I remember jumping onto the drum kit during breaks when I was playing in the brass section of the first pop group I was ever involved with, and I was instantly hooked.
These days I still love writing songs on the piano, and I've developed a real passion for the flugelhorn that I play with Aberystwyth Silver Band, but the drums were my first musical love. They're the instrument that made me want to be part of a band and helped shape the musician and producer I eventually became.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
MISHA: When I was younger, I loved the big ballad singers. I listened to artists like Celine Dion, Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston, but I also had a huge love for Bob Marley. Alongside that, I was a big fan of The Supremes. Looking back, I think I was drawn to artists with strong voices, emotion and personality.
What was the first album you remember owning?
MISHA: It's hard to pinpoint the very first album because I grew up listening to a lot of mixed CDs that my aunt and uncle made for me, so my musical diet was all over the place from an early age. If I had to choose one album that really stands out from that time, it would probably be Whitney Houston's My Love Is Your Love. I absolutely loved her voice and the emotion she brought to her songs. Looking back, it's probably no surprise that I was drawn to strong vocalists and big, heartfelt performances. That album has stayed with me over the years, and we even ended up performing the title track, "My Love Is Your Love", as part of our unplugged church concert earlier this year.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
MISHA: "Zombie" by YUNGBLUD. It's actually quite a simple song, but it hits me hard every time I hear it. It has a bit of that emo energy that takes me back to the music I loved growing up, and there's something about it that just connects with me emotionally. It's one of those songs I can listen to on repeat and never get tired of. I sometimes find myself wishing I'd written it and could perform it with Misha and the Kings, putting our own spin on it.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
MISHA: I don't really have a set writing routine. Music tends to come to me randomly and is often born out of frustration, despair or relief.
One example was our song "Too Hot". I was stuck on a packed train during a heatwave with no air conditioning, nowhere to sit and no escape for hours. I was feeling completely fed up, so I got my notepad out and started writing about the situation instead of dwelling on it. That became the seed of the song.
Another example was "Ecstasy". At the time I was dealing with a lot of inner conflict and emotions that I didn't really know how to express. When I sat down with the band, I had a melody and a few words, and the rest seemed to pour out of me. That's often how songwriting works for me. Once I've lived through something, whether it's difficult or uplifting, writing becomes a way of processing it and making sense of it.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
MISHA: At the moment I've been listening to Jessie Ware, Brandi Carlile and Tash Sultana. They're all artists who bring something unique to their music, whether that's songwriting, performance or individuality.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
MISHA: Wolf Alice. I've followed them since the beginning and they've always been one of my favourite bands. To me, they're the epitome of cool while still remaining humble. Ellie Rowsell's vocals are incredibly inspiring, and I love how the band can take you on a journey within a single song. One moment it's ethereal and beautiful, the next it's emotional, then punk, then chaotic. I really connect with that because I love music that isn't afraid to move between different moods and emotions. We're not trying to sound like Wolf Alice, but I definitely admire what they do and would love the opportunity to share a stage with them.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
MISHA: For me, the most rewarding part is performing a really tight live show where everything comes together and there are hardly any mistakes. There's a special feeling when the whole band is locked in and you're connecting with the audience. Nothing really compares to that.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Probably the balance between creativity and everything else that comes with being a musician. I like helping to steer the ship and being involved in the organisation side of things, but there are times when it feels like administration, planning and endless to-do lists take up space that could be spent being creative.MISHA: I also put a lot of pressure on myself before a performance. Before I go on stage, I can find myself imagining everything that could possibly go wrong and worrying about things I've worked hard to keep under control. That can be frustrating. The funny thing is that as soon as I step onto the stage, all of those worries disappear and I can focus on doing what I love.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
MISHA: The best advice I've received is: "Remember where you came from. Remember your hometown." I think the person telling me that was trying to keep me grounded, and it's something that's stayed with me throughout my musical journey.
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Misha And The Kings' new album 'Too Hot' is out now. Check it out in the player below.