After introducing himself with his stunning debut EP 'I'd Ghost Me Too' last year, Cambridge-based artist SLATER is now back for 2023 to deliver his anthemic new single 'Nothing's Ever Ok'.
Bringing back more of that rich and euphoric pop-rock aesthetic he is quickly earning a reputation for, 'Nothing's Ever Ok' makes for a rousing return for the frontman. With its bold and blistering energy perfectly reflecting his own passionate vocals throughout, he is returning for this year with one of his most impactful cuts to date here.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The first instrument I ever fell for was the guitar, but back then I was no good so I put it down after a couple of months!
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was really into Led Zeppelin, The Who and The Rolling Stones back when I was about 13. My mates all challenged each other to name 10 of the most obscure songs from “classic” bands to fit into the group. Not the typical “searched through my dads stash of vinyl".
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album was actually given to me by my dad which was Crossroads by Bon Jovi… I’d heard Dead Or Alive in the live-action Scooby-Doo movie and was literally obsessed. That record got me actually into music.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I wish I wrote True Friends by BMTH. They have an extended version on YouTube with a whole orchestral arrangement and it absolutely slaps. Proper good song!
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I’m the most boring person when it comes to writing as I hide away from everyone in my own private space. So let’s pretend my ritual is some hardcore meditation, followed by a spa break with my guitar which unlocks an actual spiritual pathway between me and John Lennon who shares all his unfinished ideas with me. The problem is they’re on loan, and he keeps pestering me for money.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’ve been OBSESSED with Bad Omens, BMTH and Hot Mulligan lately. Nothing like the music I make but there’s an energy to this stuff that I feel has been missing in my life.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Right, well Bad Omens are opening for BMTH in London next year right? 2 of my fave bands are already on the bill, let's get me on there! I’ve already got a ticket so might as well upgrade that to a support slot.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
What I do is on a really tiny scale. So when people share how a song of mine has really made them feel, or they come to a gig and sing the words - those are the most moving and rewarding things.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Every single thing is the most frustrating part! But that’s also (in a weird way) where the enjoyment comes from! Can’t have the ups without the downs right?
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
I’d say the best advice I’ve taken was to embrace my artistry and focus on myself. You can spend a wasteful amount of time trying to make things work for other people. If they don’t support all your handwork, go get it for yourself. - Don’t be afraid of believing in yourself and what you do. You’re an artist for a reason.
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SLATER's new single 'Nothing's Ever Ok' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.