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Behind the Music - Caoi de Barra

Caoi de Barra. Photo credit: Katie Freeney
Caoi de Barra. Photo credit: Katie Freeney

Caoi de Barra of Wyvern Lingo has released her new song, Treehouse, and is currently on a nationwide tour on her trusty 125cc scooter. We asked her the BIG questions . . .

Caoi has just wrapped up touring as drummer for Grammy-nominated singer songwriter Allison Russell, (which included an appearance at Glastonbury), and has embarked on her own solo tour of Ireland, over July and August, traveling from town to town on her trusty 125cc scooter.

Speaking about the tour, she says, "Exploring the backroads, towns, and villages of Ireland on my 125-cc scooter feels extremely peaceful and enriching to me.

"Less practical than a car, but low on fuel usage, and almost as romantic as travelling on horseback. On top of that I have the privilege of performing my songs for people in the places I go to, immediately immersed in the local arts scene. The scooter tour for me is the perfect solo quest."

Speaking about the video for the song, which was directed and edited by Katie Freeney, Caoi says, "Katie and I wanted to make something lush, playful, and bittersweet. It's a kind of cartoonish take on the idea of not knowing `how-to-adult'."

Tell us three things about yourself . . .

I'm a musician, I love new experiences and am most happy when I'm adventuring or being creative.

How would you describe your music?

Soulful singer-songwriter type stuff, with a dash of folk and pop.

Who are your musical inspirations?

Jeff Buckley, Joni Mitchell, and Hiatus Kaiyote.

What was the first gig you ever went to?

It was Pixies in Lansdowne Road, supported by Kings of Leon. I was 14 and my tiny mind was blown (as well as my foot, which I damaged dancing in the pit - legend).

What was the first record you ever bought?

Fanmail by TLC was the first album I was ever gifted. I absolutely rinsed that on my Discman sitting in the back of the car, although there were some songs on it that I wasn't allowed sing along to as they were too rude!!!! First album I actually bought was Led Zeppelin I, to expand upon the record collection that already existed at home.

What’s your favourite song right now?

I keep gravitating towards America by Simon and Garfunkel at the moment, I always love a good wistful tune about running away. The gorgeous tumbling melodies and crystal-clear imagery make for the perfect soundtrack while I'm driving the scooter.

Favourite lyric of all time?

All of Hey, That's No way to Say Goodbye by Leaonard Cohen.

If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?

That sounds mildly hellish, but Teardrops - Womack and Womack would probably be it. Sad banger to appeal to all moods!

Where can people find your music/more information?

Caoi de Barra. Photo credit: Ellius Grace

I make the most noise on my Instagram! Very busy there, indeed!

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