1. Growing Up
My family had a Sharp VZ-3000E that I was so in love with. It was a cassette player, radio and vertical record turntable all in one.
It played both sides of a record without having to turn it over. I’d plug the microphone in and sing along. Sometimes I’d record my vocals or songs on the radio onto cassette, and on occasion, accidentally over some of my dad’s favourite tapes.
2. Inspirations
In terms of genres, I’ve always been a big fan of pop – anything that came out of The Brill Building was an early influence, as well as Motown. R&B, new jack swing and neo-soul definitely helped me get through my teenage years. In recent times, I’ve been getting more into hip hop as well as future soul, like the latest album from Hiatus Kaiyote. And as for current singer-songwriters, I have a total girl crush on Sia – she takes metaphors and makes them into hits like no-one else.
3. Your Band
Sugarz is a collaborative project that features myself, Kimberly Aviso, and a producer/musician fusing our styles together to create a new sound for both parties. The first collaboration is with Melbourne-based producer Benny Badge AKA Freekwency, whom I had met through friends and really dug his nostalgic yet fresh sound.
4. The Music You Make
This first collab fuses my jazz tones and songwriting with Benny Badge’s modern funk and ’80s electro synth to create this four-track EP titled Natural High. Our live show will definitely have some tasty beats, DX7 basslines and delectable visuals. You just have to go.
5. Music, Right Here, Right Now
It’s really sad to see a lot of local Sydney venues closing, some which I’ve had fond memories of. I’m hoping there’ll be a movement towards more creative spaces and guerrilla performances to help bring back some colour to the scene. We’re so happy to be launching the EP at Play Bar. They’ve always supported awesome music from local DJs and musicians and you’re never short for a drink and good company here!
Natural High is out now independently, and you can catch Sugarz at Play Bar on Friday August 14.
