“You Talkin’ To Me?” – Quinny
A charming pop turn from Scottish-born, Melbourne-based artist Quinny, the brand new single Everything You Want, out now, expands Quinny’s indie folk sonic universe into buoyant new territory, also armed with an endearing accompanying music video. Following on from his recent singles Settlers and Found & Lost, Everything You Want feature on Quinny’s debut full-length album, with Outer Monologue out now.
A track that took on many forms during its recording process, Everything You Want saw Quinny team up with Graham McCusker, a composer for BBC’s His Dark Materials and lead artist in Glasgow/Manchester bands KAZE and Marouli, as well as fellow creative Kieran Logan, drummer for Kassidy, to bring the charming new single to life. Mixed and with additional production courtesy of Nathan Cable and mastered by Neil Pickles, Everything You Want ultimately flourishes with balanced modernity and classic craftsmanship, drawing on some dazzling influences and real-life experiences along with performances from Quinny himself on vocals, guitar and bass, Marie Collins (from The Vegan Leather) on backing vocals, Graham McCusker on backing vocals and keys, Dan Drennan on guitar, and some integral drum work courtesy of Kieran Logan.
Name: Peter Quinn
Alias: Quinny
In less than 50 words describe your music and yourself.
I’m a Melbourne-based songwriter from Scotland who loves doom and gloom under a perky and poppy facade. I try to range from the upbeat of Blink-182 and Bombay Bicycle Club to the darkness of Smashing Pumpkins, passing through some Flaming Lips, Rufus Wainwright and The Shins along the way.
What was the first rock/pop concert you attended?
Sum 41 at the SECC in Glasgow, March 2001 I think!
Punk or Goth Music: Punk
Who are you excited about, music wise, at the moment?
People are loving Chappell Roan and I don’t hate it!
The Best live artist/band you’ve seen:
I saw Sharon Van Etten at Northcote Theatre a couple of years ago which was an incredible gig, but the cherry on top was her bringing out Brandon Flowers to sing Like I Used To with Brandon singing Angel Olsen’s parts. Might not be the best I’ve ever seen, but it’s always on my mind!
Your “In the mood for love” song:
Love Me Sexy by Jackie Moon
What are you currently reading?
Honestly, nothing.
Your favourite Sunday morning chill out record?
Heaven or Las Vegas By Cocteau Twins
Which song do you wish you had written?
I wish I had a real aptitude for writing real, bonafide pop songs. So I’d need to say “About You Now” by Sugababes
Author Manuel Puig said “I’m not terribly happy about rock and roll. Rock music is uninspiring, numbing; it makes you feel like an idiot.” Discuss.
I don’t know Manuel personally, but I’m sorry it makes him feel like an idiot. Maybe we can dumb it down a bit for him so he can get it.
Vinyl, Cassette, CD, mp3 or Streaming?
I mean I love vinyls and I’m releasing my album on tape. But if I’m being honest – streaming. For listening to music at least.
If you could hang out with any music artist, in a bar one afternoon, who would it be?
McCartney
What is your worst habit?
Talking over people
How often do you look at your mobile phone?
All day!
Any good backstage stories?
Carl Barat from The Libertines once fell down a flight of stairs and bashed heads with me backstage at Koko in London. He then said “I thought I was in love with you for a minute there, but that’s gone now” and left.
An alien lands on Earth and wants to know what Rock and roll sounds like. What song do you play him?
Has to be Little Richard, Sister Rosetta Tharpe or Chuck Berry right?
Favourite all time TV show:
It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
What is your specialty in the kitchen?
I can microwave anything!
With whom would you like to record a song with?
Jack Steadman (Bombay Bicycle Club)
You have tickets to see The Killers and Bruce Springsteen but they are on the same night. Which one do you attend?
I’ve seen both twice so Springsteen – The Killers will be gigging for another 40 years
Where do you hope to be in 12 months?
Playing some Paramore on Triple J’s “Like a Version” would be cool…
Interview By Geoff Jenke

