London’s indie-pop scene has a knack for producing artists who turn personal chaos into something strangely comforting, and Zoning Out is no exception. The project, led by songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Lucas, returns with 'Loosey-Goosey', a deceptively carefree anthem that hides its emotional weight beneath jangly guitars and sunlit melodies.
At first glance, the track’s playful title sounds like something plucked straight from a Jack Black improv session, and in a way, it was. The phrase was born out of a rehearsal with his old band, and from that offhand joke came a song about anxiety, overthinking, and the restless search for ease in a restless mind.
So with the new single out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The guitar is the instrument that has had me in a chokehold since the age of eight and has had me head over heels in love with it ever since.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I loved music that always had rich choruses, so bands like The Proclaimers, The Police and Fleetwood Mac. Also, solo artists such as Stevie Wonder, Jimi Hendrix, Prince, Tom Jones and Aretha Franklin were some of my favourite artists to listen to as they had so much passion and feel for their music.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album I remember owning was an original Fleetwood Mac “Rumours” vinyl that my uncle gave me; however, the first album that I bought was “Straight Outta Compton” by NWA.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I would say “All Along The Watchtower” as the chord structure is so simple yet so recognisable, also the lyrics are some of Bob Dylan’s best work in my opinion. Not to mention the legacy it has not just for Bob Dylan but for Jimi Hendrix, nonetheless.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I always have a guitar in my hand when I'm writing, and I try and work my way around the fretboard to see what sounds pleasing to my ears. However, the majority of the time, a lot of my music comes from a sort of divine inspiration - not that I am spiritual in any way.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I would say I have been listening to artists such as Mk.gee, Geese and also Stevie Wonder. I also have found myself listening to music created by my fellow peers at BIMM University in London such as artists like Wldan and Galla Nua.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I would love to open a show for an artist like Mac Demarco as he always aims for venues where everyone feels connected to him.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
I find being a musician rewarding as it allows me truly to express my thoughts, feelings and emotions as a neurodivergent person – I struggle communicating face-to-face with simply just words, but I’m very comfortable performing on stage and saying how I feel through my music.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The fact that musicians don’t get enough recognition, and it’s a tough industry to get into. Not to mention how financially it’s not a stable working environment, due to the industry being so elitist.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
“To be sure of myself and be proud of my achievements and just keep plodding along.” The latter is from my mum.
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Zoning Out's new single 'Loosey-Goosey' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.