Meadowlark interview and preview of their show at SWX on Friday 24th February
Posted on: 22 Feb 2017Ahead of their support slot with Amber Run at SWX on Friday 24 February, 365Bristol.com’s Martin Allen caught up with Meadowlark to talk about life on the road, and how excitement is building ahead of their forthcoming debut album…
Credit - Nathalie Coeln
Bristol-based duo Meadowlark have been making waves recently with their striking brand of captivating pop melodies and lush, emotive production. They released their debut EP in 2015, followed by a series of standalone singles throughout last year. Now, signed to Believe Recordings, the band is preparing to release their debut album later this year.
What seems like a fairly rapid progression has been a long time in the making however. One half of the band, Dan Broadley, told us: “Kate [McGill] and myself both met years before Meadowlark started. I was directing music videos and playing in rock bands and she was pursuing a career as a solo artist.
Meadowland - Quicksand
“The first time we met was on a video shoot, I was directing the promo for one of her singles. It was amazing how much we had in common and when the time came for us both to pursue something else musically it seemed naturally start a project together and from that Meadowlark was born. We have never looked back since, it’s such an adaptive project, we can experiment with so many different genres and musical ideas with this band.”
Before the debut album emerges, Meadowlark have released an EP with a difference. ‘Nocturnes’ features four stripped back songs which reveal the real songwriting craft that they possess - as well as a clear flair for spotting a different slant to existing material, with their beautifully unique take on Sugerbabes’ hit ‘About You Now’. Listen to the new single ‘About You Now’ and pre-order the EP at Meadowlark.lnk.to/
Touring with Amber Run has helped Meadowlark raise their profile over the past month during what has been an extensive run of dates across the UK. So what has it been like ‘on the road’ with their headliners? Dan said: “Usually this becomes the part of an interview where you just have to politely plug the band you are on tour with but this time it’s different. Amber Run are some of the most genuine and caring people we have ever had the pleasure of being around. It’s by far the best energy we've ever had with anyone out on the road. I just can’t speak highly enough of them as people and as a band.”
Meadowland - Headlights
But now, as a busy touring run with the band comes towards its close, Meadowlark are looking forward to being back in town for their gig at SWX on Friday 24 February since it’s not just where they call home, but is also something of a musical inspiration to them. “Bristol is brimming with bands, it’s actually overwhelming how many gigs happen in our city each night,” said Dan. “I commend people like Big Jeff who make it to as many shows as they do. We are blessed to be in a city that supports the arts in the way that Bristol does. I feel constantly encouraged by the people around me. There is a sense of hope and community amongst all artists here.”
Tickets for Amber Run and Meadowlark at SWX are priced at £13.20 (including fees) and can be purchased here. SWX is located at: 15 Nelson Street,Bristol, BS1 2JY.
Article by:
As a lifelong music obsessive, Martin brings his extensive journalism experience to bear on reviewing some of the many gigs that make Bristol's music scene one of the liveliest in the country. Originally from London, he spends his time following AFC Wimbledon, tormenting his children with Dad Jokes, and getting out to see as much live music, comedy and theatre as possible.
