A Quick Chat with Bec Sykes

Congratulations on your debut album Pepperpot Magic - can you talk to us about the title and where it came from?

It comes from a story my sister told me at the time I was recording. Years ago, she was on call when her best friend was going into labour. At 4am, her phone rang, and in her half-asleep state she picked up and answered, “Good afternoon, Pepperpot Magic?” Turns out this was the name of the fairy/occult shop in Boronia that she worked at in the '90s (my sister is 20 years older than me). As soon as I heard it, I knew it was the name of the album.

Who - or what - was influencing you while creating the album?

Leif Vollebek, Adrianne Lenker, Rae Morris, Laura Jean, Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency.

What was the creative process like for Pepperpot Magic, from writing through to recording?

The songs were written in various corners of Naarm/Melbourne. Many were written while housesitting at my brother’s place in Glen Huntly or at my sister’s house in Bayswater where my piano lived. I often start by coming up with an idea on piano or guitar, singing gibberish melodies, and then writing lyrics while walking or doing the dishes. All songs began with just piano or guitar and voice, and we built the arrangements around the core. Robert Muinos produced the album, and we recorded it at his studio, the Rat Shack. Most band beds were recorded live, with overdubbed vocals and a few other additions, including synth. ‘Sculpture,’ ‘Joan of Arc,’ and ‘Paint the House Grey’ all have live vocals.

Can you tell us about some of the themes you explore on Pepperpot Magic?

The album explores anxiety and recovery, my religious upbringing, an unhealthy relationship, and family trauma.

What do you think makes a great album?

A great album is transportive. I love getting lost for 40 minutes. I’m drawn to albums with raw or slightly unusual production. Ultimately, all I need is a beautiful voice and lyrics that captivate me. I also enjoy instrumental albums that add an atmospheric layer to life. Some albums I’ll never tire of include Kate Bush - Hounds of Love, Adrianne Lenker - Songs, Paul Dempsey - Everything is True, Mammal Hands - Shadow Work, Leif Vollebek - Twin Solitude, Ainslie Wills - You Go Your Way, I’ll Go Mine, Washington - I Believe You Liar, and Laura Jean - Amateurs.

When not working on music, tell us about any other creative outlets?

Still related to my music, this year I took a DIY approach with my music videos. I collaborated with Ronan Nicholson, who plays bass in my band, to create the videos for ‘I Know What You Like,’ ‘Joshua,’ and ‘Last to Know.’ I sourced all the costumes and props from op shops, including a wedding dress that I dyed red. Ronan filmed the videos, and I edited them. The process was really fun and rewarding.

Who are some local artists we should check out?

So many! Gaia Scarf, Indyana, Benjamin Trillado, El Tee, Elaura, Rowena Wise, Romanie.

What will celebrating the album release look like for you?

I told myself that I had to make an album before playing Tears of the Kingdom, so I’ll probably play that for a week straight. I’m also hosting an album listening party in Naarm/Melbourne. Details to come.

You have a few upcoming live dates! What can we expect from a Bec Sykes show in 2024?

I’ll be playing as a duo for the El Tee show at Grace Darling, so expect an intimate and stripped-back set on piano and guitar. For the Northcote Social show, I’ll have my band with me, so that one will have a little more grit. The songs are slow jams that lend themselves to some light swaying.

BEC SYKES - TOUR DATES

Sat 23 Nov - The Grace Darling - Naarm/Melbourne supporting El Tee
Mon 9 Dec - Social Sanctuary @ Northcote Social Club - Naarm/Melbourne w/ Elaura & Pia and Anna Schneider (WA)