Getting To Know... Saving Arthur

Having taken the DIY approach to their music since their infancy, South African outfit Saving Arthur chose to head into the studio to record the warm and uplifting new cut 'Innocent'.

Recorded at Abbey Roads Institute near the end of last year, it is easy to hear why they felt 'Innocent' needed a more professional touch. With its rich and captivating tones married effortlessly with a soothing demeanour, their newest effort showcases the best in what they are capable of.

So with the new single out and about, we sat down with them to find out more about their background and what has inspired them most recently.

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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?

The guitar. Cliché I know but it is what it is, once I picked it up, I was hooked. It is also worth noting that I dabbled with the recorder before that for a bit.

What kind of music did you love when you were younger?

My parents listened to a wide variety of music when I was younger. This included anything from ‘Pink Floyd’ to ‘Bob Marley’. My dad used to love ‘Albert Hammond’ so naturally I have a soft spot for him as well. One of dad’s other favourites was Rodriguez, and out of all the music I heard as a kid he would definitely be my top pick.

What was the first album you remember owning?

Definitely a Black Keys record. I went through a serious black keys phase early in high school and they have a special place in my heart to this day.

What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?

Loveless by Lo Moon. It’s such a powerful song and always takes me on an emotional rollercoaster.

Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?

Not particularly no, I usually just mess around with the guitar and sometimes something good pops up, a riff or a chord progression. Oftentimes it stays just that, but on rare occasions the song structure lays itself out from there when these progressions or riffs are linked nicely with complimentary progressions or even baselines. I love it when that happens, usually the lyrics come last. Lyrics often sprout from a single phrase or melody and then grow from there.

Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?

I’ve recently been listening to Kevin Morby a bunch. I’ve also been revisiting my favourite dream pop duo ‘Beach House’ lately especially during those sad boy hours. The Strokes’ 2020 album ‘The New Abnormal’ would also be an honourable mention.

If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?

Ah man it would have to be Tame Impala, I’ve been fanboying over Kevin Parker since I discovered his Innerspeaker album on YouTube somewhere in 2013. I’d honestly love to meet him one day.

What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?

The process where a track comes together from start to finish is extremely rewarding. There’s nothing better than making music with your friends and then playing it live.

And what is the most frustrating part?

The constant self-doubt that accompanies the song writing process. It’s hard not to care what people think about your music since It’s essentially an extension of yourself, but I do think that being honest and authentic with your music is more important than writing a song that more people would like.

And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?

To just keep on going. You have to play the long game and remember the reason why you’re making music is because you love doing it.

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Saving Arthur's new single 'Innocent' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.