A Quick Chat with Bel Kil

"Kinda Funny" highlights the contrast between dreams and material pursuits.
What message do you hope listeners take away from this track?

I love hearing how people interpret my song lyrics. Even though they’re pretty honest and direct, I’m not trying to push my views on anyone. I just hope it makes people think about their own dreams and what really matters to them. Maybe it’ll even inspire them to take some risks or focus on what makes them happy each day. I hear so many people say they hate their job or just count down the hours. If this song helps someone follow their own dreams and stay true to themselves, or at least contemplate it, I’d be stoked.

Since your last release, how has your music evolved both in style and production? Can you share any memorable moments or achievements from working on "Kinda Funny"?

My music is a blend of styles that’s hard to pin down, mainly because I don’t aim to fit into any specific genre or sound like anyone else. I create spontaneously, letting each song develop its own unique world in terms of production. What ties everything together is my voice and the raw, sometimes playful lyrics.

'Kinda Funny' and this upcoming EP definitely feel like a continuation of my debut, My Year, but I’ve grown as a producer since then. Each track is an experiment with no set intention, just me messing around with a guitar riff, chord progression, beat, or melody until something clicks. This approach leads to a diverse, unique sound that has a touch of nostalgia. I don’t consciously try to imitate anyone, but I’m sure I subconsciously draw from the music I love and grew up with. We had CD soundtracks on repeat at home—Pulp Fiction, Reservoir Dogs, Empire Records, French Kiss, and Stealing Beauty. The music my parents and older sisters loved has definitely shaped my style.

I really loved making 'Kinda Funny.' The production and lyrics came together so quickly, I was creatively procrastinating while I was supposed to be focusing on an Intellectual Property Law essay. I found IP fascinating, and maybe it inspired me, but I kept flicking between Ableton to work on the track. The production was quick, but refining the arrangement took much longer with constant tweaking and second-guessing. Even after finishing, I went back into the studio with Tristan Courtney, who overdubbed my bass lines, and Benji (BC Slumber) added the skanking whammy guitar, I love that part. Ed Quinn (Telenova/Slum Sociable) suggested cutting the pre-chorus and turning it into the bridge. Getting feedback from someone experienced is invaluable when you're doing it all on your own. 

You mentioned the mixed reactions you received when you quit your job to follow your dreams. What was the most surprising reaction you got, and how did it influence you?

Yeah, when I told people I quit my job to pursue my dream of producing music, I often got a raised-eyebrowed, “Oh…” followed by, “So how do you make money from that?” It was more of a sceptical, “You’re so brave,” but maybe a bit crazy too. Then there were others who were genuinely in awe, saying, “Wow, you’re so brave!” and wishing they could do the same.

It was interesting—and kind of amusing—to see how the same words could come from such different places, whether out of envy or concern. It made me realise how many people feel stuck, wanting to chase their dreams but unsure how to make it work. Those reactions only made me more determined.

“Kind of Funny” really dives into that tension between following your passion and the pressure to play it safe. I genuinely believe most people can pursue what they truly love; it’s about making sacrifices, adjusting, and putting in the hard work. Those mixed reactions reinforced the importance of following your own path, no matter what others might think.

If "Kinda Funny" could be the soundtrack to any film or TV series, which one would you choose and why? How do you think your sound would complement the visual storytelling?

I think “Kinda Funny” would fit right in with a bunch of Australian shows like Heartbreak High.  its upbeat yet reflective mood would really nail those intense teen moments and personal growth and the exploration of teenage emotions and relationships. Themes of pursuing dreams versus playing it safe align well with the struggles and aspirations of the characters.

I could also see it working well in Bump. The track has this playful, quirky energy that would add a nice layer to both the fun and more serious scenes. Just like Bumpbalances light-hearted moments with deeper, more reflective ones, 'Kinda Funny' blends fun rhythms with thought-provoking lyrics, which would fit perfectly during those transitions.

Another good match would be Sex Education. The mix of playful and introspective elements in the song would go hand in hand with the show’s blend of humor and heartfelt moments, especially in scenes of teenage drama and self-discovery.

“Kinda Funny” could really compliment the emotional ups and downs and storytelling style of these shows.

If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would they be and why? How do you think these conversations would influence your music or outlook on life?

Hmmm, maybe Dan Auerbach, Beck, and Alt-J. They’re some of my favorite producers, and I’d love to pick their brains about songwriting and production. But otherwise, I could easily swap them out for Lana Del Rey, Tame Impala, and Billie Eilish. I think they’re some of the most talented and clever songwriters and lyricists with such unique and distinct voices.

When you’re not making music, what might we find you doing? Are there any hobbies or interests that you pursue outside of your musical career that help you unwind or find inspiration?

Right now, music is pretty much my whole world. As an independent artist, I juggle a lot of roles—from creator to publicist, filmmaker, producer, and booker. When I’m not in music mode, I’m usually catching local bands around Fitzroy/Northcote, enjoying a beer with friends at my local, or teaching music production at uni. I’m also into art and sports. I love running; it’s like my meditation where I tune out and either listen to music I love or scrutinise my own mixes for adjustments back in the studio. Before diving into music full-time, I exhibited my artwork internationally under my full name, Annabel Kilpatrick and I try to find time for this.

What can fans expect from Bel Kil in the coming year? Are there any upcoming live shows, new releases, or projects that you're particularly excited about?

I’ve been working really hard, and there's a lot coming from Bel Kil in the next year. First up is the release of my upcoming EP, Wasted Emotion. I’ve got live shows lined up, including a gig at Mount Hotham on September 14th, an East Coast tour, and some exciting festival appearances, including FRL in early December. I’m pumped about organising my own festival, Out West Fest, at the Ararat Town Hall with some of my favorite artists on the 9th of November—lineup details will be announced soon. I’ve always dreamed of hosting a festival on our family farm, but I’m starting smaller and safe at a great venue with a 500-capacity and top-notch facilities set up for big acts. There’s a lot more in the works, from new tracks to creative collaborations, so stay tuned. I’m also looking forward to diving into new music for 2025.