After three decades of making music across bands like Disreali Gears, the Ghears, and Burning Codes, Paul Archer is stepping into a brand-new chapter. His forthcoming debut solo album 'Art' represents both a creative rebirth and a deeply personal milestone, the first record to carry only his name, the first designed specifically for vinyl, and the first to fuse his visual art with his music.
Leading the way is 'Fear Destroyer', a thunderous new single that captures Archer’s journey from anxiety and uncertainty toward freedom, faith, and love. Brimming with passion and positivity, the track embodies the energy of an artist who, after years of industry ups and downs, is still creating with urgency, joy, and unshakable conviction.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with Paul to talk about his origins and influences over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I fell in love with was a plank with strings and magnets - otherwise known as an electric guitar. I love the versatility and power and the fact that even if two people play the same chord it will not sound the same. The guitar is immediately responsive to the player whereas modern synths use patches and a piano traditionally for example used a hammer arrangement to hit the strings once you press the key.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I grew up with my mother and father singing Gospel and when I got to my teens I discovered bands like The Smiths and alternative and indie music. Then later in my teens I discovered The Velvets.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Hot Chocolate - 20 Hottest Hits
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Come In Alone by My Bloody Valentine
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
My approach to writing music is intuitive and organic and I am ever sensitive to a moment’s inspiration. I’ll use my phone’s voice recorder for melody or lyrical ideas. I love making sounds, including dissonant noise on a guitar until the melody comes through. I resist breaking music into systems, modes and chords and I see music much more as colour and feeling.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I am currently enjoying Hello Mary, Far Caspian, Wunderhorse and early Verve (Storm In Heaven, A Northern Soul albums). I have also enjoyed revisiting Pixies and Frank Black Teenager Of The Year album.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Possibly John Cale
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The blessing of cathartic release and creating music is a symbiotic part of my spiritual, mental, physical, psychological and emotional health.
And what is the most frustrating part?
I write a lot of songs so it can be challenging deciding which to release and then getting the songs to people who will take the time to listen and engage. MY songs are not pop songs but are heartfelt dialogue and discussion and I want to continue this dialogue and nurture it so that it grows and I am stimulated by music that makes me think, ask questions and which has art at its heart i.e. art first and then music. Feeling first and then the song.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Follow your heart, don’t be afraid, always be prepared to listen.
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Paul Archer's new single 'Fear Destroyer' is out now. Check it out in the player below.