New kids on the block Panda Cult are a indie quartet from Liverpool. Last Saturday (01/04) we saw them play at 2Q Festival in Derby and caught our attention. As we didn’t know much about them we decided to have a chat to get to know them a bit better.
Tell us about your aims when creating music, and where does that aim stem from?
We just create music that we think we’d enjoy if somebody else created it. It all comes back to just enjoying yourself. If you’re doing it for any other reason, then quit.
What was the catalyst for picking up instruments and wanting to start a band?
It’s something to do and it beats sitting at home every day downloading Skyrim mods. I picked up the guitar because my dad played and I just had a knack for being good at stuff when I was younger. Think I’ve lost that knack.
Were you very influential to music when growing up or did you establish your own musical preferences?
My dad put me onto a lot of blues bands. The first piece of music I owned was a Bill Hailey and the Comets Cassette that my dad gave me at a really young age. I think if you start off on the right kind of music, it puts you in good stead to be a musician.
Tell us about what it was like when you first started writing?
It was dreadful because it was for my GCSE homework so I naturally couldn’t really be bothered. But once I started, I didn’t stop. It didn’t really feel as hard as maybe some people might find it. I think if you’ve established yourself properly on an instrument before you start writing, it’s pretty easy.
What’s the music scene like in Liverpool at the moment? Any band recommendations?
It’s doing pretty good to be honest. I’d recommend Ravellas and Paris Youth Foundation. Great bands and great lads too. Both doing well.
What and who influences you musically?
The hardest question that graces every music interview! My mood influences me musically, also Noel Gallagher was the architect of my songwriting career. Sorry Noel.
Describe your song-writing process?
100% melody first, then terrible lyrics that just sound right, then acoustic guitar, then rewrite the lyrics. Every time.
What was it like recording your debut single ‘First Time’?
It was really good and easy. We work with two fellas called Ady Hall and Lee McCarthy in St Helens who make up Sugarhouse. They’re top notch and we came out with something we really like.
Although you are in a band, do you still have to work day jobs in-between live shows?
Kind of yeah. Being a music is absolutely solid and I don’t think anybody realises the sacrifices that have to be made to do it.
How would you like people to respond to your music? Do you wish to connect emotionally with the audience or is it just about having a party?
I think it’s both. It depends what song you’re writing I think. One might say you can party harder when you connect to the audience emotionally.
