Having already established themselves with a wealth of shimmering delights this past year, London-based duo high jump are now looking to cement their vibrant legacy to date with their captivating debut EP '001'.
Featuring the recently unveiled gems 'Tide Away', 'Santos' and 'Avenue', this new six-track collection makes for an incredibly rich and riveting listen. Bringing back more of that warm and alluring indietronica aesthetic they are known for, '001' sees them continue to shine as one of the more exciting names on the rise right now.
So with the new EP available to stream now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
It was actually the drums! My dad used to play Wild Thing on the guitar and make me play along for hours at a time. Then I learned how to play American Idiot on the guitar and my head was forever turned.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
The first bits of music I can remember enjoying were Daniel by Elton John and New Life by Depeche Mode - I’m not sure what the middle ground is between those. I think The Mission soundtrack by Ennio Morricone also featured quite heavily in my early years but that might be a fake memory as it’s a bit intense isn’t it.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Now 53 - literally zero skips on that CD.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Life On Mars by Bowie. The chords, Rick Wakeman on piano, the fact that the lyrics don’t make narrative sense but half the country can sing every line.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I try not to let habits inform too much of the writing process, as you can very quickly end up with a bunch of demos that are all essentially the same song, or at least trying to convey the same vibe or feeling.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
A real mix, quite a bit of Janet Jackson and Pinback recently, loads of Mk.gee, and loving the new Billie Eilish album.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Blood Orange
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Suddenly having a fully realised song in front of you without really remembering how you got there from point A.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Organising the song idea voice notes on my phone.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
“If you feel safe in the area you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area. Always go a little further into the water than you feel you’re capable of being in. Go a little bit out of your depth. And when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting.” - David Bowie. He didn’t say it directly to me though.
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high jump's debut EP '001' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.