Every Monday we will be bringing you interviews with unsigned UK or Ireland artists for Independent Music Monday. Recently we caught up with Joseph from unsigned Cardiff band Himalayas to find out more…
Who is in the band, how did you meet, where are you from and how did you come up with the band name?
We got Joseph Williams (Vocals and guitar). Mike Griffiths (Lead Guitar), Louis Heaps (Bass) and James Goulbourn (Drums). Joe, Mike and James all went to high school together. James then met Louis in work and the rest is history. We’re from Cardiff, South Wales. James’ family is from the Himalayas…
Who were your musical influences when you were growing up and who are your influences now?
Collectively we all listen the same type of thing and grew up listening to the same music. David Bowie, Pink Floyd, Green Day, Arctic Monkeys etc. Now we listen to the same music but are fans of new bands coming through like Yonaka, Boy Azooga, Idles to name a few.
How would you describe your sound?
We like to think outside the box, we try to keep our sound simple but have unique tones, especially in the guitars. We can’t really describe it ourselves, it’s best heard live that’s for sure.
What is your latest release called and what was the influence behind it?
The Masquerade. It reflected the political climate we find ourselves surrounded in at the moment. It was reflected the rough year we had as a band, we put a lot effort in these next few releases, I think it reflects how our sound has matured.
What’s your local music scene like?
Cardiff is forever growing. Personally when we first started out there wasn’t as much of a scene. Now there are so many new bands and Cardiff is being put on the map for new music.
What do you have planned for the next 12 months? Any albums or festivals?
We have our first EU tour with Reignwolf at the end of October followed closely by our first headline tour around the UK. We just want to release more new music. We’re planning a second release for early 2020 and just to tour as much as possible.
Is there anyone you’d love to collaborate with?
Nick Cave would be awesome. Or to collaborate with Josh Homme. We feel like we could be best friends if given the chance.
Any funny stories surrounding your live performances?
We once had a guy turn up with crutches who had a broken leg. We didn’t really see him until we saw his crutches poking out the middle of the mosh pit… (He was alright though).
What is the one thing that you want readers to know about you?
Try pink gin with lemon Fanta. Thank us later.
You can find out more about Himalayas via Facebook, Instagram, SoundCloud, Spotify or Twitter.
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