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Interview with Ferraby Lionheart
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One of Indie rock's rising stars, Ferraby Lionheart, is out with his new full length eleven song album Catch the Brass Ring and is playing Hotel Cafe tomorrow night. Before we go see this folksy pop singer songwriter, LAist interviewed Ferraby about his name, his love for Judy Garland, and where he hangs out in LA.
Ok, so is your real name Ferraby Lionheart? If not, how did your come
up with it? Its sounds magical.
I like the idea of living a magical life.
How did the songs on "Catch the Brass Ring" come to you?
Different ways. Most of them were inspired by some kind of experience. And then I just try and turn it into a song.
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What was this recording process like? Where did you record?
I recorded in a magical little garage in west los angeles filled with loads of old instruments. There was a cactus garden outside, and the house was owned by an 85 yr. old classical music critic who would occasionally hot-tub in the nude.
Who is in your back up band and how do you know them?
Usually I play with my friend Jay on the drums. I met him at a dinner party 2 yrs ago. And then there's Laura, who plays upright bass. She plays in another band that I did a show with. That's how we met. At the Hotel Café my cousin Joseph will play electric bass cause Laura's out of town. My friend Frankie also plays sometimes, he plays guitar and pedal steel through a delay.
How would you describe this album to someone who has never heard your music?
It's like if Jim Jarmusch took Mary Poppins, and Butch Cassidy on a paddle-boat ride.
What is your songwriting process like?
I usually find a melody or little piece of music that moves me. Then I'll make a little audio sketch of it on my cell phone and live with it and develop it. Then I'll figure out what it wants to be about. Sometimes it will sit around for a while before the right story fits.
What are your favorite places to play in Los Angeles? Favorite places
to hang out?I like playing at Tangier, silverlake lounge, hotel café. I like hanging out at Vons Grocery, Fairfax area, Chinatown.
How do you feel about all the positive accolades you're getting from
music machines like Spin, Rolling Stone and Stereogum? Do you feel
any pressure?
I like it. It makes me feel like I might have a career. Those people don't make me feel pressure.
Its been said you idolize Shel Silverstien and Judy Garland- is that
true?
Love them both. Huge inspirations.
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Where was the best show you ever played?
Portland OR, at the Aladdin maybe. It's hard to say.
Best show you ever saw?
Gosh, maybe Air at the Hollywood Bowl with the LA Philharmonic
First concert?
Beastie Boys and RUN DMC
Who are you listening to right now?
Roy Orbison, Billie Holiday
Check out Ferraby Lionheart at Hotel Cafe Tuesday August 7th.
Photo provided by 230Publicity
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