Gigslutz Interview with FARAO

Farao is a name you maybe hearing a lot of over the coming months. Although she has only released one single, that of the beautiful ‘Skin’  she has a lot more coming our way. Samatha Foley caught up with the Norwegian folk queen to find out more…

For people that hadn’t heard your music before, how would you describe it?

I would say I play some kind of melancholy, ethereal indie music. At least that’s what other people have said, so it can’t be too far off.

You recorded your newest release, Skin, In Iceland why did you go there and how was it?

My manager knew the producer I recorded with, and I went up there for 10 days to record in February. It was an amazing experience, and I had such a good time. We were in the studio all of the 10 days I was there, so it was quite intense, AND I actually slept in the studio too. Going somewhere far away to record made me a lot more focused and productive than if I had recorded in London for example. No distractions, no friends calling you up for a pint. I prefer that way of recording.

You performed at The Great Escape festival earlier this year how was it? Was that your first festival appearance?

It was our first in the UK; It was a lot of fun, I really like the Great Escape. I LOVE Brighton and a lot of friends were at the festival so basically it was a big party.

If you could duet with anyone dead or alive who would it be?

Elliot Smith, I’ve already prepared harmonies to the whole of Either/Or.

Farao is your musical name, what’s the meaning behind it?

It means what people want it to mean. I think it’s a very aesthetically pleasing word, both in the way it sounds and the way it looks written down. In a weird way I think it sounds like my music.

What made you want to be a musician, is it something that has always been in you?

It’s the art form that speaks to me the most and it’s the way in which I like to express myself. I’ve been signing since I could speak… Mainly in the car with my parents, to their annoyance.

What’s the best gig you’ve ever been too?

Sigur Rós, Oslo Konserthus, 2005.

What music did you grow up listening to?

Rednex and Scatman John. They’ve been a huge inspiration.

Is there a venue/festival you think, ‘Once I’ve played there I’ve made it.’?

The Later with Jools Holland show would do it.

What’s next for Farao?

The debut EP is released in October, until then I will be playing some festivals and working on new material for the album!

Samantha Foley

@thegeekinthepinkk

http://youtu.be/rV5HFWNiEVY