Leeds-based alt rock band The Banquets are growing and got my attention with the release of their new single ‘Red Sky Morning’, a soulful and intriguing song that is barely like anything I’ve recently heard before! Perfect moment for me to talk to singer Gemma about where she finds inspiration and what her favourite tracks of the moment are!
Where do you find new music?
In the pre-Covid age, our favourite way to find new music would be to watch local bands and artists live. We’ve come across some amazing new music that way. But with current restrictions, I always find Spotify and YouTube’s suggestions pretty good. We found LP (Laura Pergolizzi) that way. What an artist! Recently though, I’ve been exploring online music reviews, which has introduced us to some great new music.
What is your favourite place to listen and write music?
For me, personally, the shower is my music writing sanctuary. I’m not sure why this is – perhaps it’s the only place I can truly disengage, so the creative juices really get to flow. Thank you, shower! Other than that, me and Leon will write collaboratively in the comfort of our own home, usually with a little herbal companion. But Leon quite likes it when he’s on his own with his weed and his whiskey – some of our greatest songs have been born that way.
As for listening to music, we love listening to music in the car, particularly when we’re all on the road travelling back and forth to gigs. Again, like the shower, it’s another place to just disengage from everything.
What activity are you unable to do without music?
Oooh, that’s a good question. I honestly cannot bear any social occasion without music. Music lifts the spirits, and without it, everything just feels empty and lifeless. To be honest, what activity is there that you can do without music? Exercise, showering, travelling, working, studying, socialising, thinking, cleaning… we do everything with music. So actually, I’m going to say everything, barring sleep.
What are your favourite things to do besides music?
Favourite things to do… Another good one. For me, cooking and eating. Music and food are life! It’s another way for me to both disengage and indulge. For Leon and Fran, anything that involves having a good time… and beer!
Current Top 10 Songs?
I’m proud to say that some of the best songs for us at the moment are by WOMEN! So here goes…
Nicha – Little Bird – just wow!
She Drew the Gun – Trouble Every Day
Lauren Ruth Ward – Sheet Stains
Allison de Groot & Tatiana Hargreaves – I don’t want to get married
Hayley Gaftarnick – Turn to Stone
Felix Rabin – Angels
Samantha Fish – Bulletproof
The Harriets – Trip to the Moon
The Shannon Reilly Band – Trouble
Larkin Poe – Bleach Blonde Bottle Blues
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