We had the opportunity to sit down and chat with Barcelona rockers, Imperial Jade, ahead of the digital album release for their second album, On The Rise, to talk about their latest effort, what inspires them and the challenges they face.
Inside The Setlist: What are the main themes or topics for your second album, On The Rise?
Imperial Jade: We don't think there is a predominant theme on the album. There are a few love songs or songs which talk about love or about a girl, for example, "Sad For No Reason," "Heatwave" or "Keep Me Singing." There are also songs talking about how we see the world like, "The Call" or "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet." There are songs on the record, which are a metaphor of what is happening to us as a band like, "Glory Train" or "Struck By Lightning." At times, our music encapsulates made up stories, so I guess there's little of something for everyone.
What inspires you to make music together as a band? And, has that inspiration changed over time?
I guess there are many different things which inspire us on a daily basis. Sometimes it's something that's happening to you in your personal life, maybe something that's happening to a friend, sometimes we like to just make up a story or a character and, just imagine what could happen to him or her. Most of the time, It is the music we listen to which inspires us to write a song or, go in a particular direction with an idea we have.
Our inspiration has definitely changed over the last three years since the release of our first album. We try to keep our minds open to all kinds of music, styles and genres, which allows us to become inspired by many versatile things at one given time. Also, I think we have all evolved as musicians, it is normal to change the way you look at or hear things and therefore, It reflects in the songwriting and composition.
What has been your biggest challenge as a band so far? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?
We can't think of any particular obstacles so far. We will just say getting to where we are right now. We know it's no big deal when compared to bigger mainstream bands, but I have to say that emerging bands like us, have to go through a lot of shit in order to be able to record an album, get to go on tour and all that is in between. So, We are very glad we are doing this together and, I guess we can all agree that we feel very proud of what we have achieved so far.
Is writing a combined effort between the band?
We think that for the most part, unless you have the idea of a song and it is very, very clear in your mind, you are going to need help at some point from all of your band mates to finish it. Other times, It is just fun or more efficient to work together on a song, as we prefer a team effort.
It is the music we listen to which inspires us to write a song or, go in a particular direction with an idea we have.....
Do you think that online presence is important for fans to find you and, critics to find your music to write about?
Definitely. We are living in a world where everyone is connected with each other at the click of a button and, It really is important to stay updated with social media and all that stuff. Trust me.....it ain't easy!
Do you think you could get any better as a musicians? And if so, how would you achieve that?
We sure hope so! What would be the point in playing if we couldn't get any better? We still have a lot to learn, not just in what comes with the music but, also everything regarding a band and how it works. The up side, we've got time and we will improve on every business aspect,as we go along. We will also make sure to keep practicing and playing as much as we can.
If you were to give someone advice on life or how to start songwriting/become a musician, what would you say?
We would tell him or her to listen to a lot of music, practice as much as you can and have patience. These things take time and if you play, play and play, you will eventually find your own style and that will create your path to follow. Also, don't compare yourself to others, It can really mess your growth as a musician, just try to analyse what you like from your musical influences and, think how you could do it in your own style.
On The Rise is available via all digital platforms on the 21st December. For more information regarding its physical release date and upcoming tour dates, head over to their Facebook page.
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