Alternative pop singer-songwriter Natalie McCool is back on the scene with new single ‘Fortress’ ahead of the release of her new album ‘The Great Unknown’ just before she embarks on a UK headline tour. Catch the effortlessly cool McCool at The Bodega on 15th September. We had a chat with Natalie ahead of her show next month about growing up in the North West, festival fun, and what she’s looking forward to about her upcoming tour…
Nottingham’s music scene is buzzing right now, what’s it been like growing up as a musician in the Widnes/Liverpool area?
When I was first starting to play music at around 14 /15 there were some really cool venues and music nights especially for under 18s. Where I grew up – in Widnes – was really good for that – there was a lot of music stuff going on. Having Liverpool so close was amazing too, I put on my first gig there at 17 there and that was amazing – to have that experience.
Have you played any festivals so far this summer? What’s been your highlight?
Yes, I have played at Latitude and Liverpool International Festival. I saw MØ and Laura Mvula at Latitude – they were both brilliant. Laura Mvula was absolutely magical.
You’ve won a couple of competitions/awards since starting your musical career. At what point did you realise that music is what you wanted to do?
I remember watching a band playing live on TV when I was really young and thinking that it looked such amazing fun. I wanted to do that all the time. That feeling didn’t change when I started playing music.
What’s your favourite thing about being a musician? Writing? Recording? Live shows?
They’re all my favourite but I think the most interesting aspect of it takes place in the studio when the music is really starting to taking shape. You can a write a song that could be any genre / style – but when you start to put it down on record that’s when you have to create a backdrop and an atmosphere for the song. Doing that is always the most stimulating part.
We’re only the 3rd date on your tour, which other cities are you looking forward to playing in?
I’m also looking forward to Leeds, Newcastle, both Scotland dates and the homecoming show which is in Liverpool. I love Scotland – and Leeds and Newcastle have always been amazing places to play in the past – great crowds and atmosphere. And Liverpool for obvious reasons!
When you arrive at a venue what is the best thing that the people that work there could do for you? Touring’s hard right?
Probably just being on hand to make sure everything is okay, being helpful, asking if we need anything – just general attentiveness and hospitality goes a long way! It’s really hard work doing a show where the promoter or sound engineer isn’t at the venue when you arrive.
Natalie McCool plays here at The Bodega on Thurs 15th September. Get your tickets here.