A Q&A with Oz
Gritty, glossy alt-pop – here’s genre-clashing breakthrough artist Oz…
How did you get the title of your latest release, and what does it mean to you?
Well, the song is about being a strong empowered unapologetic woman and I’d always hated the phrase “men are from Mars women for from Venus” – human nature isn’t so easily boxed in. So I decided I wanted to be from Jupiter.
What was the hardest part about putting this release together, and why?
I think because of Covid a lot of the final touches have had to be done via Zoom. Including the video which we made from Zoom footage and stock footage. But all in all it’s been a pretty smooth ride
Who produced the release – what did they bring to it?
My pal Jez Ashurst produced the track. He was so great and co-wrote with myself and another good friend Emma Rohan. The whole process was super easy. It felt like we wrote it with one brain. Jez is an incredible producer and guitarist and he really captured the feeling of overall strength in the track.
What do you want the listener to take away from listening to your music?
I just want the listener to enjoy it. Whether it helps them through a rough day or just gets them through the washing up. The music is strong and dark but it also doesn’t take itself too seriously.
How does a track normally come together? Can you tell us something about the process?
I normally start with a lyric. Either a full written lyric sheet or just a concept. And then I think about how that concept makes me feel and we build the sound around that.
What band/artists have influenced you the most since you started this project, and why?
I’ve always listen to older music. Whether it be Dolly Parton or The Cure or The Clash or Prince. I think there’s so much spirit in the music they made and I like to draw influence from those artists for that reason.
When the world is back to normal where would like to tour, and why?
Anywhere. Literally anywhere that will have me. Touring is the most amazing experience. Really getting that chance to connect with even just one person face to face and feel that energy in the room. There’s really nothing like it.
If you could pick one track for our readers to listen to in order to get a taste of your music, what would you pick, and why?
It’s really hard because they’re like my little song babies and to choose one is almost impossible. I think each one has their own thing and there’s something for everyone. ‘Murder’ is the most ballady but ‘Jupiter’ is the title track of the EP so I guess I’d have to choose that one
What ambitions do you have for the band/your career?
I think just to be comfortable. To be able to make music every day for the rest of my life and make enough money to put food on the table and a roof over my head. Obviously world domination via music could be one the cards too you never know haha
Finally, as you leave the stage, what are your parting words?
Support your local music scene and venues. They need you now more than ever.
The debut EP from Oz, ‘Jupiter’ is out now
For more info visit: facebook.com/ozmusicc
