Meath-based artist JJ Bloom has released Cool Kids, the first track from his upcoming EP, Floating. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
Bloom was formerly a member of Irish group Dúlamán, who gained prominence through their appearance in the final of Germany's Got Talent and sign with Sony Germany.
Speaking about the new release, he said, "Over lockdown, I found myself listening to a lot of R&B artists such as Jaden, Frank Ocean, Daniel Caesar. Each night, I would immerse myself in this genre of music and the songs just came pouring out. It really felt like they belonged to a collection."
During lockdown, he was also kept busy on the music scene performing a number of virtual gigs including Hot Press Magazine live sessions, TILT Dublin’s live from the Button Factory and supported N.O.A.H in The Solstice Theatre in Navan, Co. Meath.
"This release is the start of a new chapter for me," he says. "There will be several follow up singles and finally an EP to establish this new sound and brand change and I’m really excited for people to hear this new identity."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I write, record, produce, and mix my own music.
Although I have co-written a lot of tracks with other artists, all of my songs to date have been written solely by myself.
I have an unhealthy obsession with mint cornettoes.
How would you describe your music?
I would describe my music, for the most part, as R&B/Soul. A lot of chilled out sounds, with simplistic production. The focus, for me, is more so on the space and creating a unique atmosphere in each track. Although lyrics are important to me, the feeling that comes across through the track is of paramount importance. I want the listener to form their own individual connection to each song and create their own meaning behind the lyrics.
Who are your musical Inspirations?
I have quite a broad list of inspirations that cover a lot of different genres. With my first track Always You, I would say I was inspired by the likes of Tom Misch and Hall & Oates. However, over lockdown, I immersed myself in the music of artists such as Jaden, Frank Ocean, and Daniel Caesar. This style of music, in turn, began to spill into my songwriting and production style. Cool Kids is an introduction to this sound, and I'm confident that it's the way forward for JJ.
What are you most looking forward to post lockdown?
I only really began my career, with the release of my debut track, as lockdown started. I never got the chance to gig the releases, whether it be festival slots, support slots, or headline gigs. I had a taste of it recently, when I supported N.O.A.H in the Solstice, Navan. I almost forgot how rewarding it was to share your original music with people and have them connect with it. I cannot wait until I can play live music in a sold-out venue, at a festival, or wherever it might be.
What is your favourite song right now?
I am terrible at picking favourites because I listen to so much new music! I've been really loving Sunflower by Irish group PRiiCE. Also, Funds by Irish artist Rushes has been on repeat.
What is your favourite lyric of all time?
"And I was drowning but now I'm swimming, through stressful waters to relief" Mac Miller - Swimming: Come Back to Earth.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of my life, what would It be?
If I had to pick one song, it'd be Movie by Tom Misch. I just think it's perfect, and no matter how much I overplay it, I never tire of it.
Where can people find your music/more information?
You can find me @jjbloomofficial on all socials, to join me on my journey. You can also join my mailing list on my website, for exclusive updates and offers on upcoming releases and gigs.
