After spending much of the last few months building and cultivating his sound, Irish singer-songwriter JP O’Duill is now ready to introduce himself to the wider world with his vibrant debut solo single 'Empathy Primates'.
Lifted from his forthcoming debut EP 'Nótaí', which is set to land on the 6th June, 'Empathy Primates' makes for a wondrous introduction to his sound so far. With its rich and shimmering textures set to his soaring vocal presence throughout, he is kicking things off with a wildly immersive initial offering here.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him 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?
There were a few instruments in the house growing up. My Dad had a mandolin that was in a case with a golden kind of fur lining. There was a piano and I had a kid sized ukulele. I was also mesmerised by the tortoise shell plectrums, especially when they were held up to the light.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I got into Nirvana at a really young age and Frank Sinatra also. Loved Rory Gallagher and Jimi Hendrix too. I also started playing Irish Trad Music quite young.
What was the first album you remember owning?
I found The Feeding of The 5000 by Crass in a second hand record shop when I was in school.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
This Woman’s Work by Kate Bush
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Not in particular. I find just sitting in-front of a real Piano is the most inspiring. I tend to have to write down lyrics fast because they seem to have to be harnessed from somewhere. Like catching butterflies in a net and then setting them free again. Using obscure tunings on the guitar I find can nearly trick the brain into coming up with stuff.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’ve actually been on a classical music buzz lately. A lot of Mahler. Vladimir Horowitz too. Then the soundtrack to A Thin Red Line with the choir music is incredible. Melanesian choral songs and chants, by the Choir of All Saints from Honiara.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
My Bloody Valentine
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
You get free dinner at gigs every now and again.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Not getting free dinner.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Caffeine is quite bad for the singing voice.
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JP O'Duill's debut single 'Empathy Primates' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.