A Quick Chat With Othrship
Othrship, the up-and-coming alternative rock band, has just released their highly anticipated three-track EP titled ‘We Are Explorers’. This dynamic and diverse EP showcases the band's ability to seamlessly blend various musical styles, from driving guitar riffs to introspective ballads. Othrship's distinct sound, coupled with their insightful lyrics and wonderful narrative explored via their episodic music videos make for a cosmic journey like no other. We caught up with Henry Manuell, the mind behind it all, to find out more.
Can you tell us what this EP means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
The Othrship EP and music video trilogy is a comical story of an alien crew on a journey across the galaxy. Their civilization is in dire need of a new home because they're on the verge of depleting all the natural resources on their planet... sound familiar?
Who were some of your influences when producing this EP and why?
Shortly before writing these songs, I had played at Bendigo Blues and Roots and Mullumbimby Music Festival with Low Down Riders. I was also invited to attend Subsonic by a friend, and for the final few days of the year, I attended The Australia Convention... The music at all of these events was vastly different. Funk, disco, blues, folk, alternative, rock, NOLA jazz, second line, Dixieland, a Russian folk choir and a string quartet! I got the chance to learn from and observe all these great performers, but what left the greatest impression was their carefree and joyous attitude toward life and their music (being paid pennies and then spending it all on beer). It was a reminder that music is entertainment at its core, and that I should remember to have fun while doing it.
What was the creative process for you, from writing through to recording this EP?
In January 2019, I packed my car with all my music gear and a handful of things borrowed from friends to go on a 3 weeks writing retreat and attempt to write as many songs as I could. As always with creative pursuits, one produces far more music than is useable, but I ended up with 6 songs that were suitable for Othrship. I wrote these songs in preparation for a follow-up to 2019's Lift Off release. When it came around to finally sharing the music, 2020, 2021 and 2022 got a little in the way...
If you could collaborate with any artist or band, who would it be and why?
David Bowie. His confident self-image, his diversity in songwriting and because Max Martin said he was the best singer he'd worked with. Kevin Parker for his riffs and production but humble (and epic) creative output. Let It Happen has it perfectly boxed up - it shows exactly why he is one of the leaders in the rock landscape. And most notably, Michael League, his imaginative compositions, his never-ending creative output, genre diversity and the way he directs the band live. How many am I allowed to have? It doesn't matter, I'd be too nervous to collaborate with them anyway...
When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
A big one for me is definitely learning different languages, which enables me to connect with other cultures more richly. l enjoy rock climbing, bike riding and I by chance, I've inherited several old film cameras so maybe that'll turn into another outlet... :P
Who are some local bands we should check out?
What genre are you looking for? Haha - Rosie and the Quest, Cone of Confusion, True Vibenation, Midnight Tea Party, Emily-Rose and the Wild Things, Supahoney, Tiali, Thunder Fox, Gia Rising, The Finer Cuts, Jannah Beth, Nardean Gharsa, Suiix, Ned Olive, Just Breathe, CK & the 45s, Horse Drawn Cadillac, Lady King, Dom Diaz, Dan Barnet
Winter or summer and why?
Winter for sure, but a hard decision. It's 2:30 am and I'm lying awake because it's so hot. Don't get me wrong, I like the cold because I can control my environment plus it's just easier to warm up than to cool down.
What else do you have planned for 2023?
The band is booked to record two new songs in April, so perhaps another single... or three... and there are plans to host a second "An Othr Fest". Keep your eyes peeled. :D
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