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Perth MusicClaire Clarke Interview
With her debut EP coming out in a few months local talent Claire Clarke told Justin Middleton more about what makes her tick and why you should be listening more to local music.
Q. Tell us a little bit of history about yourself as a singer/songwriter. How did you start out and what have you achieved?
In 2000 I sang an Australian classic in memory of my father and was overwhelmed by the connection I had with people on a sincere emotional level. With a little encouragement from my teacher my music career began.
I focused all my energy into writing lyrics and vocal melodies, learning the theory of music and vocal techniques and disciplines. At the end of 2005 I was accepted as one of the youngest contemporary vocalists at the prestigious WA Academy of Performing Arts. I am very excited to perform my repertoire of original songs at Perth live music venues and am looking forward to releasing my debut EP Alter Ego, the first chapter in my career as a recording artist
Q. What bands have had the greatest influence on you and who are your favourite bands at the moment?
I must admit solo artists such as; Natalie Imbruglia, Missy Higgins, and Avril Lavigne have been my greatest influences. I don’t have a favourite band per se, though I do have great admiration for Perth bands and independent artists. I guess I’m just a little biased. J I listen to a really diverse range of music and I love it all. Currently Alanis Morissette’s collection is getting a good workout in my CD player.
Q. What helps in writing new songs? Do you need solitude to get inspiration?
I’m usually alone when I write and this typically occurs at night time. I guess it’s the solitude which holds no boundaries and provides free reign.
Q. Favourite AFL team?
In risk of getting my ass kicked, I’m a rugby union girl all the way. I don’t dare enter the Eagles/Dockers battle!
Q. What is your favourite live music venue? Do you prefer small pub shows with a small audience or bigger shows with lots of people cheering you on?
The Paddo has really been a stand out for me. The vibe is awesome, I love it. In saying that though I enjoy all the original music venues in Perth, for different reasons. The Hydey is very intimate and I adore that punters can literally be at your feet and in your face. It’s great!
Big shows are unbeatable, I love to feed off a huge audience, especially when the listeners are getting into it as much as you.
Q. What is your song writing process? Do you write the lyrics and music together or one first and then the other?
I write lyrics all the time and usually have a melody in mind. Other times I record melodies that pop in my head and add the lyrics after. I’ve never had a ‘formula’ as I find it limits me creatively.
Q. What is your take on the Perth Music Scene at the moment? Do you think it is thriving or is it a bit of over-hype?
Being born and raised in Perth I love the Perth scene. There is a genuine sense of ‘reality’ about Perth, its people and music. I think the Perth music scene is definitely thriving with bands like End of Fashion, Eskimo Joe, Gyroscope, Little Birdy, The Panics, Schvendes, and then of course there are the solo artists like John Butler, Nathan Gaunt and many more I haven’t mentioned. The proof is in the pudding we have an amazing bunch of talented musicians.
Q. What plans do you have for the next few months?
I have just been contacted by Nova 93.7 for an interview and feature my music on WA Made. This is very exciting! I’m releasing my Debut EP Alter Ego 1st July 2006. My website claireclarke.com is being updated to sample and sell my music. I have been performing my songs acoustically and am really looking forward to performing with my band very soon. I am especially looking forward to reaching a wider audience and raising my profile.
