Having spent the last few months building their reputation in their hometown of Stoke-On-Trent, emerging indie-rock outfit Orchards now look to introduce themselves to the world with their dazzling debut single 'Universal Sigh'.
Lifted from their soon-to-be-announced debut EP, 'Universal Sigh' makes for an incredibly warm and inviting initial release. With influences that spread through The Maccabees, Radiohead and Bombay Bicycle Club, their first delight shows incredible promise for this band on the rise.
So with their new single doing the rounds, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has inspired them most over the years.
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What were the first instruments you fell in love with?
At a relatively early age we each had our own natural liking for and understanding of the instruments we primarily play in the band, but as with anything we’re all open to learning new things and improving as musicians generally. We’re all wired in such a way that allows us to fall in love time and time again with instruments and music in general and that’s what propels us forward to do what we do.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
There’s no real light bulb moment to speak of. We have all been playing in bands for most of our adult lives. I think the whole band would agree, but I can’t really think of any reason why I wouldn’t want to be doing this. At its core, we’re good friends and music lovers and we all want and need a creative outlet.
What kind of music did you love as teenagers?
We were fortunate enough to come of age at a time when the internet, Napster and the MP3 format was just taking off, which exposed us to so many different genres of music than we would have ever been able to experience otherwise. There was no limitation.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
There’s probably a handful of bands and songs that initially ignited the interest for each of us, but it would be difficult to name the first. The 90s were a great time for guitar bands in the UK, which definitely didn’t go unnoticed and some of our favourite artists and bands came from that time.
When you wake up in the morning, what kind of music do you like to listen to?
Speaking for myself, I am an avid BBC Radio 6 Music listener. In my house, from the moment I wake up, until the late evening there’s usually at least one or two speakers streaming the station.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Most songs are based on something or somebody loosely. People around me are always triggering ideas for songs, but my main source of inspiration comes from being outdoors. I appreciate nature and take a lot from the open space.
What have been the most memorable moments in your career so far?
We’ve had the most incredible time so far writing and recording what ultimately will be our debut album.
Outside of music, what are your biggest passions?
Family, friends, food and travel would stand out. Without those and music, we’d all be miserable.
If you weren’t musicians, what other path do you think you might have taken?
Outside of music, I don’t know. Perhaps being a ‘luxury house-sitter’ sounds appealing, or a ‘water slide tester’!
And what advice would you give to those looking to start a career in music?
Don’t expect fame and fortune. If you’re in it for those reasons, then a career in music in this current climate probably isn’t for you. It’s all about new experiences, being creative and enjoying the process.
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Orchard's debut single 'Universal Sigh' is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.