With a sound that looks to combine the directions of Celtic, folk and jazz, London-based outfit Seafarers are proving to be one of the most in-demand acts of the moment as they release their latest single ‘And Maybe I’m Scared’.
Lifted from their forthcoming debut album Orlando, which is set for release later this year, And Maybe I’m Scared continues the band’s pursuit of bright and uplifting compositions. With notable comparisons to the likes of The Shins, Doves, and Elbow, this new gem is perfect mix of atmospheric indie-rock and sweeping dream-pop in equal measure.
So with their new single out and debut album on the way, we sat down with them to find out more about their new offering and what else they have in store for us in the future.
Hi, how are you today?
Hello, I’m doing pretty well, thanks. It’s been super warm these past few days, and I’m not great in the heat. That’s been a challenge.
For those that haven’t heard of you yet, how would you best describe your sound and who have been your biggest influences so far?
We are a group of musicians with backgrounds in Celtic folk and jazz. Our songs most often relate to people, hope, and regret. I get a bit lost with influences, there’s so much to draw from, but I keep coming back to Joni Mitchell, Sufjan Stevens, Phoebe Bridgers, and Sam Amidon.
You have just released your new single ‘And Maybe I’m Scared’. Can you tell us how that track came about?
I recently came across a voice memo of the first time we played this song; the file was titled “Sad Christmas”. Back then it was just this wistful little melody that sort of trundled along on top of the piano figure. When we took it into the studio our producer, Euan Burton, opened it out into this wide, clattery expanse and it became something else entirely. I love working with Euan, he’s the perfect companion.
The words started off as scraps of hazy memories I had about growing up. These then got blistered by something more troubled and anxious.
And was there a particular style you were looking for when you wrote it?
Not really. It’s difficult not to get root bound by style and genre, so I try to wriggle free and just write. I count myself quite lucky in that I tend to get quite strong impulses from my gut, and I’m learning to follow wherever it leads me.
Can we expect a new EP or even an album from you in the near future?
Yes! Our first album is called ‘Orlando’ and it’s being released on 6th November. Before that, we have another single coming out in early September. For this song we’ve got a music video to share as well, animated by the wonderful Jonathan Hodgson.
The coronavirus outbreak has obviously affected everyone’s plans, but what have you got in store for the rest of the year?
I’ve been using this time to begin work on our second album, which I would hope to start recording in Spring of next year. I’m also working on some acoustic versions of the songs on ‘Orlando’, for another little future release.
And finally, what is your dream ambition to achieve as an artist?
Being able to write and record music that feels relevant is an unspeakably fulfilling thing. As long as I can keep doing that, somewhere I’ll be smiling.
Seafarers’ new single And Maybe I’m Scared is available to stream and download now, and their debut album Orlando will be released on the 6th November. Have a listen to And Maybe I’m Scared in the player below.