For those of you who haven’t yet heard Kim Churchill, there’s a good chance you’re missing out on some great original music which captures the free spirited 24 year old’s heart and soul. Single Spark , the opening track from his latest album ‘Silence/Win’ is one of those tunes that you just want to play over and over- it’s become the ‘summer anthem’ for it’s pure energy and upbeat lyrics!
About to set off on his ‘Single Spark’ Tour, Churchill took a break between waves on Sydney’s Maroubra Beach to grab a coffee and to talk about his upcoming tour, and how he loves to live a nomadic lifestyle. On this free-spirited approach to life, here’s what Churchill had to say to Glam Adelaide.
“It’s the constantly changing nature of the experiences, I love that variety and spontaneity that comes with that life- it can vary from drinking Belgian beer in Europe to driving through the Rockies (Mountains) in the US, along with all the interesting people that go with it. It’s wonderful to get such a variety.”
In listening to Churchill’s music, it’s easy to pick up the blithe spirit that saturates the core of his songs. Already he’s played both the Glastonbury and Beautiful Days Festivals, and has opened for international headliners Billy Bragg and Michael Franti. He’s also held his own with successful headline tours through Canada, The UK and Europe.
With ‘Silence/Win’ though, Churchill took a punt and handed some creative control over to the production side to Warne Livesey (Midnight Oil, Matthew Good), which he initially had concerns with but is ultimately happy with the end result. “In the past I’d been so hell bent on doing everything myself, and I didn’t really let anyone have control at all. When it came to laying down the album I finally got to the stage where I was ready to allow someone in so I could just focus on the performance”.
For someone who previously didn’t see himself as either a great songwriter or singer, Churchill took vocal training to improve on the areas he saw as weak, and has developed into a unique and affable addition to the Australian independent music scene. In listening to ‘Silence/Win’, there’ a depth to the songs and a real feel to them. “As far as my songwriting goes, all I can do is be open minded as to how a song may come about. A hook might come whilst driving or catching a wave, it comes around in any way really. I just try not to miss it when it comes.”
Life has changed somewhat since becoming the guy next door to a modern day folk sensation, and Churchill remains both philosophical and humble when it comes to success in the industry and the accompanying exposure that comes with it. “Everything that comes my way is a real blessing, I’m truly grateful and stoked about it. I just focus on my art and creating….and I’m enjoying the ride.”
When asked how he felt performing with the likes of Billy Bragg and Michael Franti, Churchill’s response is “ I knew who Billy was through Dad’s music choices, Franti I wasn’t as aware of but I learned a lot from both. I toured with Billy Bragg in the US, UK and Europe and he’s amazing. More than anything I’ve learned how to treat people from them, as Billy has time for everyone and treats them like equals. Also, watching him perform whilst he was sick was impressive- keeping such a positive mindset throughout and putting even more effort in. Incredible!”
Kim Churchill will commence his National tour this month to coincide with the release of ‘Silence/Win’ which is available through iTunes:
For Adelaide readers,get on down to Jive on the Thursday 5th Feb to get a taste of what Churchill has to offer. Tickets available at https://www.musicglue.com/kim-churchill/tickets/
Story by Darren Hassan
KIM CHURCHILL – SINGLE SPARK – TOUR DATES 2015
Special guests to be announced soon
Tickets on sale NOW.
Tickets cost $15.00 pre-sale and $20.00 on the night (except * TBA and ** which is free)
All tickets from: https://www.musicglue.com/kim-churchill/tickets/
Thurs 15 Jan – The Corner, Melbourne VIC
Fri 16 Jan – The Abbey, Canberra ACT
Sat 17 Jan – Karova Lounge, Ballarat VIC
Wed 21 Jan – Birdhouse Bar, Wagga Wagga NSW *
Thurs 22 Jan – Anita’s Theatre, Thirroul NSW
Fri 23 Jan – The Cambridge, Newcastle NSW
Sat 24 Jan – Oxford Art Factory, Sydney NSW
Thurs 29 Jan – The Beach Hotel, Byron Bay NSW ** – FREE ENTRY
Fri 30 Jan – The Zoo, Brisbane QLD
Sat 31 Jan – Solbar, Maroochydore QLD
Sunday 1 Feb – Festival of King Island, TAS
Thurs 5 Feb – Jive, Adelaide SA
Fri 6 Feb – Amplifier Bar, Perth WA
Sat 7 Feb – City of Stirling Summerset Arts Festival at Stirling Civic Gardens, Scarborough WA
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