A Quick Chat with The Urban Sea

Can you tell us a bit about your inspiration for your single ‘My Own Time’?

"My Own Time" came from that moment when you know slipping back into old, comfortable patterns would be way too easy – but you’re determined not to. It’s about avoiding the tempting quicksand of familiar bad habits and choosing to move forward, even when the unknown is a bit daunting. Writing it felt like telling myself, “Don’t fall for the cozy trap; keep moving.” It’s the anthem for anyone fighting the urge to take the easy route back to what they know isn’t right and strutting their way into something better.

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

Our songwriting pulls from a melting pot of influences. Gang of Youths for lyrics that hit straight to the heart, Sam Fender’s raw, unapologetic intensity, Ball Park Music’s catchy melodies and clever wit – if we can make you hum and smile at the same time, we’re winning. Add a bit of Arctic Monkeys’ swagger and Spacey Jane’s jangle, and that’s our jam. We aim to either move the listener emotionally or physically, or preferably both.

What’s the creative process like for you?

It usually starts on the back deck with me working out melodies and sketching out the bare bones of a song. Once that skeleton is ready, I bring it to the band room, and they flesh it out, adding life and layers. We’ve got a really positive, fast-working method, so once the main idea is there, it doesn’t take long for a song to come together. It’s always a mix of “this is perfect” and “let’s turn this upside down,” but the energy stays high, and before we know it, we’ve got something that just clicks.

If you could change something about the Australian music industry, what would it be?

I’d love to see audiences craving new music the way they chase down cover bands at their favorite pub. There’s so much unreal talent out there that deserves more than half-empty rooms. More government and industry support would be a game-changer – more grants, funded showcases, or initiatives to get fresh artists on more stages could really help build a stronger live music culture. If audiences could discover new local sounds as easily as they find a band playing "Mr. Brightside" for the millionth time, the scene would thrive.

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

On the good side? It’d be quieter—I’d probably still have all my hearing intact. Plus, I’d actually have more time, considering the hours I sink into emails, spreadsheets, late-night gigs, and those dumb TikTok expectations. But on the downside, I’d be bored and uninspired, trying to fill that creative void with questionable hobbies. I even tried leaving music behind once to focus on other things, but music has this funny way of dragging you back like, “Oh, you thought you were done? Cute.” So here I am, still tangled up in it, and wouldn’t have it any other way.

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

There are way too many incredible Australian artists to choose from. We’re constantly blown away by the talent in the local scene and have even been known to pop into open mic nights to discover new artists and build connections. We’d love to create a collaborative community where we can all inspire each other and feed off that shared energy. Artists on the rise also have so much passion to feed off.

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

Listen to everything, even the stuff you think you don’t like – it all has something valuable to use. Be a creative kleptomaniac: steal inspiration from graffiti at the bus stop, your dad’s old record collection, that pop song on Coles radio while you’re buying bananas. Pickpocket from love, frustration, or a clever phrase in the newspaper – gather it all and use it for your own art. And then give it back in your own way; if those stolen moments strike a chord with you, they’ll resonate with others.

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

We actually recorded "My Own Time" at Ian Haug’s studio in Brisbane, and having him around for some of the sessions was surreal. At one point, he let me play one of his guitars for a track, which I pulled out of a case still marked with a Powderfinger flight sticker. He’s got that effortless rockstar aura and a treasure trove of stories that could make any music fan’s head spin.

Any plans for a tour on the cards?

Absolutely. We’re getting ready for an East Coast tour to support our next EP, "Sunsets and Silhouettes," when it drops next year. Expect new songs, lots of energy, and us trying not to lose gear on the road – it’s going to be a ride.