VicToday, we sat down with Planets to discuss their inspiration to write music, type of music growing up, and much more!
Interview:
Inspiration to write our music?
The writing for Planets is linked to experiences that have stayed with me for a long time. I’m inspired by lots of things, but they don’t always make good subject matters for songs. So really it’s about sticking to what I know and deep diving into ‘why’ something is the way it is, ‘what’ it still means and ‘how’ I could’ve been better. The challenge then is to be really creative with the material, choose phrases or words that capture the imagination, and ultimately write something that sings well others can connect with.
Type of music growing up?
HC: I was exposed to all sorts of music. It was often heavy and super melodic. There was never anything passive, everything felt like it had real meaning and purpose behind it. The music felt optimum and the best ‘version’ of whatever style it came from, which made it really difficult to have favourites. I could be listening to Paco De Lucia interpreting Manuel De Falla, Odyssey’s ‘Back To My Roots’, Metallica’s ‘Leper Messiah’, Ray Charles’ ‘Baby Let Me Hold Your Hand’ or George Benson’s ‘Breezin’; it all had so much personality and weight, and it was hard not to fall in love with.
CK: I listened to a range of music. I was influenced by my parents who listened to lots of Fleetwood Mac, Dire Straits, Supertramp etc. for Christmas one year I got an iPod shuffle and my mum had already curated a playlist for me of loads of different songs from all genres and time periods. My favourites always had a good beat and an interesting melody.
Someone who was a hero?
HC: My dad wasn’t always my hero, but since he passed, I’ve reflected on what he was dealing with, what he tried to protect me and my sister from, and how much he really loved us. He’s still a huge source of inspiration, strength and support when I’m struggling. And as crazy as it sounds, his voice is still in my head and it keeps me really honest. I also know when I have an emotional response to something, I know it’s because he would’ve loved it too.
CK: Kate Bush. She commits to a feeling within a song and it radiates through to the sound, the lyrics, the production and the imagery. She recognises a strong hook and has the creativity and musical ear to develop the idea so it comes to life. It’s what we strive to do.
If you weren’t a musician?
Before I came along and ‘rocked the boat’, Charlotte was on to a pretty good wave of momentum with her acting; so I imagine she’d have a fairly comprehensive list of credits on IMDB by now! Alongside this, Charlotte’s a pretty incredible photographer and a creative ‘all rounder’. Sickening really….
On my side, I’d probably be a chef and try to open a family business. I worked as a commis during my Law degree, and all my family work in catering, so I imagine that industry would’ve pulled me in.
Advice for anyone wanting to create music?
My advice to anyone wanting to create music is to practice without the fear of failure. Repetition is essential, give the brain healthy information to learn and you will improve. I genuinely believe there is no such thing as ‘impossible’ when it comes to playing an instrument, only temporary inability. Simplify the subject matter if you’re writing and don’t take no for an answer! If you’re struggling with lyrics, endure it. If you’re unsure about the next section, let it come to you another day. Work to your strengths and write about you experienced. Oh and have fun…. If you can.
Check out their Bandcamp: https://planets3.bandcamp.com/track/winner
