Magazine Gap
So why don’t you introduce yourself?
We’re an eclectic pop-rock band from London, which formed in 2009.
How did you guys put this band together?
Cookie produced and performed on James’ debut album, and in promoting that brought on Alex. The combination of the three of us created something quite unique and it quickly became a distinctive band sound.
What’s the story behind your band’s name?
Magazine Gap Road is a major route in Hong Kong that runs from the Mid-Levels to the Peak. James and Alex grew up in Hong Kong, and James used to live near there. The video for “Slipstream” was filmed in Hong Kong, and fittingly concludes at the top of Magazine Gap Road.
What are your music influences?
Neil Young, Paul Simon, Dave Matthews, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Jay-Z, Herbie Hancock, Michael Jackson
How is it to tour cities such as Japan?
Amazing. Music can cross so many borders and boundaries, and touch people in similar ways all over the world. We’ve discovered this on YouTube, but directly to audiences across the UK, the United States and Asia, including 3 major cities in Japan. The Japanese people were so welcomingly and supportive. We adore that country.
How you guys feel about been played in BBC radio?
If you are a UK artist, being played on BBC Radio is critical to starting to build awareness as well as testament to reaching a certain level of achievement.
What’s your songwriting method?
Historically, James came with pre-written songs which Cookie would arrange and Alex would then add his personal style into the mix. These days, one of us brings the basis of an idea which all three of us develop together. We’ve just written a song we’re very excited about that was created that way.
Light and Shade. How was the recording and writing process? How you guys came out with this tour?
We started recording in London, then had the opportunity to tour in the US. Because we like every song to be distinct, it made sense to record in different studios around America whilst on the road. It was an incredible experience.
What’s Next? (Tour, album, video)
We’re writing a brand new album at the moment, and aim to begin recording it this summer. Quality comes first, with every song meticulously recorded, edited, mixed etc, so will take our time to get it right! We’ll likely tour new songs this autumn.
Funny moments while touring?
Too many to mention. The experiences have been rich and colourful. Maybe the funniest was our arriving at a hotel in Los Angeles and flirting with the receptionist who was friendly but somehow mistook our bonhomie and gave us rooms with two in every bed – obviously we changed that.
Where can we find more about your music?
Our website – www.magazinegap.com – has most information and contains all links to our official presence across the web.