It stood there under his nose like some beautiful piece of art -- just asking to be talked about, critiqued and dissected. It curled a bit, was well-groomed, and stood out on an already distinguishable face. Years ago, I might've made it the focal point of the interview (I had, after all, co-authored the humor book Sweet 'Stache: 50 Badass Mustaches and the Faces Who Sport Them), but not anymore. The furry ship of mustache rebirth is a bit played out, and a gimmick wasn't needed when interviewing singer/songwriter Foy Vance.
The Northern Ireland native has such a smooth and moving voice that it's no wonder he has a strong fan base, and has warmed stages recently for David Gray and Michael Kiwanuka. Last month, I caught up with the gifted artist steps away from the Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, N.Y., where he'd take the stage later before giving way to Gray. From Bambu, a Peruvian restaurant next to the venue, Vance performed "Be the Song," a tune off the Academy Award-winning short The Shore and discussed it and more. Watch. Listen. Love.
Foy Vance: "Be the Song" Live
Foy Vance Interview
Like Vance, Gin Wigmore demands your attention but in a totally different, far more "tattooey," and sexier (well, if you're a dude like me) way. The singer/songwriter from New Zealand will drop her new EP "Man Like That," and the title track has already gained buzz since it's featured prominently in a new Heineken commercial tied to the latest 007 flick Skyfall. Another track "Black Sheep" has also made waves in the beverage community thanks to its inclusion in Guinness Black Lager ads. And, it won't stop there. The Kiwi Wigmore will make her TV talk show debut on The Tonight Show Nov. 13. Earlier this month, she performed "Man Like That" on A-Sides, and killed it. Watch below, and thank me later.
Gin Wigmore: "Man Like That" Live
Gin Wigmore Talking "Man Like That" and More
A-Side Aside
"A-Sides Live," an offshoot live series of this, um, series, is putting on a little awards show in White Plains, N.Y. on Nov. 2. "Pop Goes the Culture" will be an evening of meaningful live performances and well-intentioned meaningless awards hosted by acclaimed comedian Carlos A. Gonzalez. The show will feature live music and comedy performances from local and national talent and honor WWE wrestling icon Jimmy Snuka, children's entertainers Carole & Paula and Slim Goodbody, 30 Rock's Grizz Chapman, and more! Check out asidesmusic.com for deets.
About A-Sides With Jon Chattman
Jon Chattman's music series features artists (established or not) from all genres performing a track, and discussing what it means to them. This informal series focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometimes humorous) way. No bells, no whistles -- just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, I'm hoping this is refreshing.