Alternative rock artist Jack Adamant has released his new album, Obscure Places & Cupboards. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
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He has three albums and some singles under its belt and won a punk-rock contest organised by Punk Rock Radar last year.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
Hiya, I'm Jack Adamant. While I don't like to categorise myself strictly as a musician, I see myself more as an entertainer. I find joy in bringing a unique blend of music and performance to my audience. I have a natural inclination towards seeking change and adding small, intriguing elements to enhance the overall experience. Music has always held a profound impact on me since my childhood. It serves as a means of self-expression and communication that goes beyond ordinary interactions. Lastly, connecting with people is something I truly value, and knowing that my music can touch even a single soul brings out the best in me.
How would you describe your music?
Describing my music is always a bit challenging as I continuously strive to avoid repetition and explore new territories. Since embarking on my solo project, I've traversed various genres, ranging from folk music to alternative rock and even delving into the realm of indie punk. What truly excites me is the ability to explore different musical landscapes within the same album, making it difficult to confine my sound to a specific genre. In the case of my latest release, Obscure Places & Cupboards, it embraces a fusion of pop punk, grunge, alternative rock, and post-punk elements. However, you'll also find glimpses of indie rock elements in certain tracks, such as Space Frame and the closing track Here and Still. This combination of diverse musical influences adds depth and diversity to my compositions, resulting in a unique sonic experience. I remain open to evolving and exploring new directions, so I won't be surprised if my future sound takes a completely different path.
Who are your musical inspirations?
I find inspiration in a wide range of genres, spanning from indie rock to hardcore. There are a few bands that I consistently listen to, such as Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh, Guided by Voices and Sonic Youth, to name a few. When I reflect on my musical influences, the groove of Pixies, the melodies of The Cure, and the raw power embodied by bands like Melvins and Mudhoney are incredibly inspiring to me. This combination of elements truly encapsulates what I've always aimed to achieve in my own music. While I do keep an eye out for new music and emerging trends, my primary motivation is to distance myself from anything too commercial or predictable. I strive to avoid merely replicating what has already been done by countless bands. Instead, I take inspiration from conventional recipes but always with the intention of crafting something unique that captivates listeners with a fresh perspective. While drawing inspiration is important, I firmly believe that attempting to copy others is futile. My goal is to forge my own path, delivering music that resonates with a new sense of intrigue and interest.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
The first gig I ever attended was at the age of seven, and it was a concert by an Italian band called Nomadi. Despite forming in 1963, they were still actively performing at that time, blending elements of pop rock with experimental touches in their music. I can vividly recall the enchantment I felt as I stood in awe, gazing at the grand stage and being surrounded by a sea of enthusiastic fans. The musicians seamlessly blended their instruments, creating a rich and cohesive sound that resonated with everyone present. Even at such a young age, I was completely captivated by the melodies and arrangements. Every detail of the music seemed to be magnified in my mind, leaving an indelible impression. Sadly, the band's singer and founder, Augusto Daolio, passed away only two years after that concert. As a result, that gig holds a special place in my heart, representing an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impact on me.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The first record I ever bought is quite a monumental question and I have three distinct answers. My first cassette was Boombastic by Shaggy from 1995. It brings back memories of my middle school days when a friend of mine had a boombox and would blast this cassette at school. Up until then, I had never owned a cassette, as our collection at home mainly consisted of my mom's tapes. So, I convinced her that it was finally time for me to choose a tape, and Shaggy's album became my first.
What's your favourite song right now?
At the moment, I have two favourite songs that I simply can't choose between. The first one is Fun in the Sun by The Campbell Apartment. It never fails to uplift my mood and set a vibrant tone for the day. Additionally, I've been listening to a lot of Coastal Fire Dept., a band from Guernsey. Their song What Do I is simply phenomenal. The hook hits you like a punch in the stomach and the raw emotions and energy conveyed in the song are truly captivating. I find myself listening to it repeatedly, getting lost in its powerful sound and thought-provoking lyrics.
Favourite lyric of all time?
When it comes to choosing a favourite lyric of all time, I find it challenging to settle on just one. However, a few lyrics immediately come to mind. The first is from Joy Division's Love Will Tear Us Apart, a touching and introspective song that deeply resonates with me. In my opinion, the lyric captures the complexities and challenges of love in a beautifully haunting way.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
There are so many songs that hold significant meaning to me. However, if I were to make a selection, I’d choose Plainclothes Man by Heatmiser. The song holds a special place in my heart due to its exceptional structure, poignant lyrics, brilliant arrangements, and the incredible vocal performance. I hold immense admiration for Heatmiser, particularly Elliott Smith. This song resonates deeply with me, and I could listen to it endlessly.
Where can people find your music/more information?
The easiest way to connect with me and find my music is through social media. I am active on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok. People can easily find me by searching for 'Jack Adamant' on these platforms. Additionally, I have a website, where I share more information about my music and upcoming projects. Spotify is the primary platform where people can stream and enjoy my songs. So, don't forget to follow me there and add my tracks to your playlists. Thank you for the support and I hope you enjoy the music. Cheers!