Can you tell me a bit about your inspiration for your new single Out Of My Hands?’

(James) It was written during the first lockdown of 2020 and we’d been listening to NZ band Leisure quite a bit. I also got obsessed with a synthesizer I bought which has found its way into just about every Pirra recording from then on, it’s a Behringer Poly D and I love it.

What are your influences and how do they affect your songwriting?

(James) PNAU, Leisure, Kimbra, Rufus Du Sol, Vera Blue, Tora. We tend to share music with each other quite a bit, and I think that helps bands evolve their sound. Studying the music that inspires you is also one of the best ways to learn. I think we’re also very influenced by the equipment we own. Every time I get a new piece gear I can’t help trying to force it into every track.

What’s the creative process like for you?

(James) Most commonly I’ll record phone memos with whatever pops into my head and later turn it into a track. Curt’s main instrument is the computer, he’s a huge fan of programming with samples and virtual instruments. Jess is very spontaneous and melodic while Jeff likes to look at things as a whole.

If you could change something about the Australian/New Zealand music industry what would it be?

(James) More festival spots for Pirra.

What do you think life would be like for you if you didn’t have music as an outlet?

(James) op[‘

I’d probably be a bus driver that deliberately brakes hard around corners and that type of thing.

Is there anyone you would like to collaborate with? Why?

(James) Kimbra. I just respect what she’s done so much. She’s written amazing material and has some great collaborations. She has such interesting productions and experiments with her voice in such creative ways. It’d be fascinating to see how she goes about making music.

What’s your advice to young people who want to make a career for themselves in the industry?

(James) Prioritise mental health and your relationships. Your mind is the tool you use to make all your decisions so try and keep it healthy. And if you fall over once in a while be kind to yourself and get back up.

Who’s the most interesting person you’ve worked with/met?

(James) Sam La More. He produced our song ‘Never Apart’ and he made a big impression on us. He’s very eccentric and enthusiastic about music. He’s also very opinionated and kind of rude in a loveable way. I miss hanging out with him.

Favourite hangover cure?

(James) Bringing it into land with a drink or two, just be careful the wheels don’t touch down and lift off again.

(Jess) A can of coke first up in the am, and then…. KFC

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

(James) We’re releasing our second album ‘Spirals’ on September 30 and have a run of shows we can’t wait to play.
These include Listen Out (Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth)
YCK Front and Centre (Sydney, August 26)
Jungle Love Festival (Jimna, QLD Sept 2)
Relish Festival (Bellingen, NSW, Sept 30)
and Your Paradise (Manamuca Islands, Fiji, Dec 10-16)

A Quick Chat with Pirra