Belfast-based folk artist Love from Belfast (Robert Boake) has released his new single, Connemara. We asked him the BIG questions . . .
Robert was previously a member of indie rock band Sunways, and he later worked as a locations scout and manager on HBO's Game of Thrones.
Connemara was written on Mannin Bay just outside Clifden and recorded, mixed, and mastered in Robert’s garden studio in Ballyhackamore, Belfast.
"I’d been tinkering away with some beautiful open tunings and the structure came together as descriptions of the landscape around me fell into place," he says.
"A group of friendly people came and stood on the sand next to me and clapped, thanked me and chatted to me when I stopped playing. My kids were playing at the water with my wife and I remember being so happy to have this new song recorded on my phone!
"Later, I added the 'flow like a river’ bridge section because I wanted to capture the total ease of that day, that sense of complete calm and presence that I felt while visiting this place. Although I had to leave the next day, I promised myself that I would return soon."
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I’m a very lucky explorer, sometimes paid to do so.
I received a very personal, welcoming letter approving my application for Irish citizenship, which told me that I would be looked after wherever I was in the world, and stressed the importance of bringing my own culture, history and stories with me to make Ireland a richer place. Tearjerker.
I’m a dedicated Yoga student and teacher and love the fuel that it brings to my creative headspace.
How would you describe your music?
I’m an alternative, acoustic-folk, singer and songwriter. I treat songs like landscapes and I play with structures, sometimes circular and repetitive, sometimes linear and hypnotic. Ireland has brought out the storytelling in both lyrics and guitar/piano playing for me. I disappear into music when I record or perform.
Who are your musical inspirations?
Paul Brady, Dylan, Sufjan Stevens, Neil Young, Sam Amidon, Bon Iver.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
Paul Simon in Kings Park, Durban.
What was the first record you ever bought?
The Works by Queen.
What’s your favourite song right now?
The Island by Paul Brady. Listening to it is like drinking a beautiful glass of wine.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"It's a shame, the way she makes me scrub the floor, I ain't gonna work on Maggie's farm no more"- Bob Dylan.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Videotape by Radiohead.
Where can people find your music/more information?
My website.
Alan Corr
