Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with Shrewsbury artist Dom Malin to find out more…
Where are you from and how did you first get into music?
I grew up in the West Midlands and was raised in a small village outside Staffordshire. My parents encouraged me to learn an instrument and brought me an electric guitar for Christmas. Through some early lessons and playing at school talent shows, I enjoyed sharing music and feeling that buzz and connection with an audience.
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
Growing up I connected with Neil Young, Damien Rice and Guns N’ Roses. I was drawn to the attitude and passion, and the excitement of it all had me hooked. My influences are Zach Bryan, Wild Rivers, The Beaches, and The Big Moon.
How would you describe your sound?
My sound is a fusion of folk and Americana, with a singer-songwriter flair inspired by artists like The Lumineers, Ben Howard, and Neil Young. I aim to capture the raw emotion and storytelling essence found in their music, while also incorporating elements of Wild Rivers’ harmonies, Zach Bryan’s authenticity, and John Mayer’s soulful guitar work. My songs delve into personal experiences and universal themes, delivered with heartfelt lyrics and acoustic arrangements.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
The track’s called ‘Hurricane’ and I recorded it in Vancouver, BC. The studio was located just outside of Vancouver, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, backed onto an open forest and lake. It was the perfect setting for this track.
Hurricane champions the courage to overcome hardships and find solace in acknowledging the past as part of your story. However, you can weather any storm in the company of someone you love and trust.
What’s your local music scene like?
I have been travelling a lot recently: Germany, Switzerland, the USA, and so I haven’t been in one place but what I have noticed is music will always find the right crowd and people want to know the story and message of your art.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months?
It’s one of my busiest years!
I’m doubling my releases as compared to the last few years, touring again, and making sure it’s my most successful year to date. This time next year, I will have played in at least 6 countries, released 8 new songs, and connected with fans (both old and new!). I’m focusing on creating content that people love and engage with, always trying to make sure each release is better than the last.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
The Lumineers; they seem so down to earth and humble, and I believe we have the same values and ethics. We see the world through a similar lens, and I’d love to explore our approaches to songwriting and creating ideas.
Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
When I opened for Dermot Kennedy I got asked quite literally the night before, and I needed to drive 5 hours to get to Portland.
Thankfully, I had just gotten off tour and had a pretty sound setlist. It was a whirlwind of an experience, and the in-ear monitors kept falling out! Despite the chaos of getting there, it was an incredible evening and the crowd had such passion that blew me away! So many incredible people made their way into my life, and I’ll always be thankful for that email.
Upcoming live dates and performances
Saturday 27th April – London (secret show) https://vier.live/act/dom-malin-live-secret-location
German Tour Dates with Luna Keller:
Saturday 1st June – LRCC (Cologne)
Sunday 2nd June – Bad Berleburg
Wednesday 5th June – Maulvoll Session (Cologne)
Thursday 7th June – Wildemann
Friday 8th June – Sibesse
You can find out more about Dom via Apple Music, Facebook, Instagram, Spotify, TikTok or YouTube.
Merryn 