THE GRAFT On the Making Of ‘Chirpse’
What was the creative process like for this particular 'Chirpse?'
The creative process was very stop-start, due to covid. Some of the songwriting became better as the album progressed, as we had more time to let the songs evolve. Thanks to lockdown, we were able to spend time writing lyrics, drawing inspiration from past relationships. We would send GarageBand recordings of our songs to each other when we couldn’t meet face-to-face. We managed to have one socially distanced jam in our local park!
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for 'Chirpse?'
At the beginning, we needed lots of guidance from Rob Wilkes, our producer. He challenged us and made us question ourselves. What makes a good song? How can we make song x even better?
I think as time went by, we became more comfortable in the studio. We gained more of an understanding of the songwriting/ recording process if you know what I mean. We became more confident in sharing ideas and I feel you can hear that on “Superman” & “Stayin’ Out.”
What has been one of your favorite memories along the path to making 'Chirpse?'
I think the moment we finished the recording, there was a real togetherness a sense that we’d really achieved something. We went to the pub, had a few beers and there was lots of hugging! It was something I won’t forget. It was a really nice way to finish.
It may not make us millions of £s and get us lots of ladies but it’s a piece of art that we’re proud of. When I’m dead and gone my kids will still be able to hear me sing about ‘Birkenstock Sandals’ 😂
How would you describe your band's overall stage presence and the energy you bring to your live shows?
We’re lively, we’re raw and we don’t give a fuck.
Have we got our live performance across to recording? I’m not sure, maybe it’s a bit different. However, I’d say if you haven’t seen us live you need to get down to a gig because it’s a different experience.
Can you share a standout moment from one of your live performances that you'll never forget?
Getting people to sing along to “Jenny” at the fiddler’s elbow. On a small scale, you realise you’ve done something amazing when people sing along and understand the meaning/ where the lyrics come from.
