Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Seven questions... with Graham Phillips aka "Fields of Ypres"



When a trusted friend asks me to check something or someone out... I do it. Sometimes it works... sometimes it doesn't. In the case of Graham Phillips aka "Fields of Ypres" it worked (thanks Dave!).

I have only heard the three tracks on his website... and, as such, I'm only just getting to grips with Graham's music... but from what I've heard... I get a real sense of potential. His folky-tinged acoustic soundscapes have a real depth to them... which is accentuated by his eloquent vocals and a real focus of craft.

I caught up with Graham and asked him my wee mini interview... this is what he had to say:

Tx

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1) Who are you and what do you do?
I am Graham Phillips. I’m a singer/songwriter and I perform under the pseudonym of Fields of Ypres.


2) What are you working on at the moment?
I’ve actually just finished a new video for my Youtube channel. In the wider sense though, I’m tying up all the loose ends with regards to my debut release as Fields of Ypres. I’ve recorded a four track EP called “For Every Hour”, mixed and mastered by Mike Odmark (Aaron Roche, The Winston Jazz Routine) which is due for release in September through local label, Comercially Inviable.


3) Who inspires you?


- Name an artist who has inspired you.
Aaron Roche

- Name place that has inspired you.
Wolverhampton!

- Name some "thing" that has inspired you.
My iMac!


4) What drives you to do what you do?

People are like cups, whatever we consume we overflow with. I love listening to music, finding new artists and absorbing their work until I know every intricate detail. Therefore, writing music is just a natural overflow of who I am, I don’t feel necessarily driven to do it, I’d be lying to myself if I didn’t do it.


5) What values do you wish your creativity to express?

My outlook on life has changed considerably over the past few years. Understanding the grace of God has been central to this, forgiveness, reconciliation and redemption are values that are central to me. So many people live out their lives from a position of feeling unloved, I want to give them a sonic hug.


6) What role does community play in what you do?

It informs my work. Because of our engagement with online social networks we’re players in several communities, each of which will have a slightly different dynamic. I love my city, my relationship with the people that live here shape what I choose to write about.



7) What is next for what you do?

Honing my live show is pretty high on the agenda, I’m looking forward to getting out and doing some more live shows. I’d also like to record a full length album, something that listens like one full piece rather than 11 or 12 tracks put together.

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Thank you Graham... I look forward to your debut album. If you live in the Wolverhampton area and get the chance to hear Graham live... do it. Support independent music.

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