Irish alt-rock artist Toria has released her new track, Dancing With The Devil. We asked her the BIG questions . . .
Speaking about the song, she says, "This song shaped who I am as a musician today. It helped mould the overall sound and direction I was going for with the tracks that came afterwards.
"It holds a special place in my heart and signifies a real turning point in my creativity. I'd rather not go into detail on the meaning of the track, because I think everyone will take something different from it, and that’s what I love about writing music."
Toria trained in classical piano from an early age, moving between alternative pop ballads and Beethoven. Her desire for more musical outlets led her to guitar, singing and eventually song writing.
Having spent time growing up living in different parts of Ireland, she began testing out her new material at musician gatherings in small Irish towns. She attended a music performance college in Dublin where she earned her degree.
She is now performing with her band throughout Ireland at festivals and spotlight venues as well as writing and recording music.
Tell us three things about yourself...
I have lived in four different counties in Ireland. My family are my biggest supporters. I have a dog named Bamboo.
How would you describe your music?
Haunting, eerie, and heart-felt. I'd like to think that my music tells a story, and I've always found it to be very visually stimulating. I can almost always see the songs playing out in my mind.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I was exposed to many different types of music from a very young age, but to name a few who have inspired and influenced my own tunes; Jeff Buckley, David Bowie, Tamino and Anna Calvi. I've also been listening to a lot of Deftones as of recently, and I can hear their influence in some of my most recent writings.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Muse in the 3Arena, with my mam.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The Doors Vol. 2. A vinyl album full of some of their greatest hits. I used to play Riders On The Storm every night before bed.
What's your favourite song right now?
Molasses by Hiatus Kaiyote.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Well, you tell us that we're wrong/And you tell us not to sing our song/Nothing we can say will make you see/You got a heart of stone, you can never feel" - Drink Before The War, Sinead O'Connor.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Tough one, but definitely Grace by Jeff Buckley.
Where can people find your music/more information?
You can find me on Instagram @toriamusicofficial, I'm also on Spotify, Twitter, and Breaking Tunes!
