Jake Meadow's signature sound has been built from years of experimenting with modern electronic techniques, classical harp and rich harmonious layers has featured as part of Daniel John's recent shows as well as with Angus & Julia Stone, Eves The Behaviour, Paul Max, Thelma Plum and many other Australian artists. Jake has just released his debut solo single with an EP to come out soon. Tomatrax caught up with Jake to ask a few questions.
What was it like to work with Daniel Johns?
Well obviously we have a great time doing it, since we're good mates. But he's also taught me so much and I'm so thankful for that. I'm always so impressed by his knowledge of music, artistic ability and the unique direction that he tends to go. He loves to push the boundaries of sound and his dedication to his art is unparalleled. It's really inspiring.
How will the rest of your upcoming EP Good Company compare to your latest single?
My single, 'Echo of Tomorrow' is the perfect introduction to the whole album. The album follows a similar energy, but delves even deeper. I was nervous to share the album, but now having received such a positive response from the single, I couldn't be more excited.
Where did the EP title Good Company come from?
I was inspired to name the album Good Company, because throughout the whole process of making it, I was surrounded by so many genuine, loving, good people. It's as simple as that. I hope that all the good energy that was around me during the album resinates with the listeners.
Your music combines electronic sounds with classical harps, is it hard to get the contrasting elements to work together?
Not really, it feels natural to me. Since I've been playing the harp my whole life, it's really become an extension of myself, like another limb, and I've always gravitated to a more electronic sound. The combination gives me a lot of space to grow and
experiment, which I've done a lot over the past year especially.
You've worked with the likes of Thelma Plum, Paul Mac, Angus & Julia Stone, and Art vs Science. How does making your own music compare to working with other artists?
I've been very lucky to be able to work along side so many incredibly talented artists. It's a totally different ball game when you're working with other artists, versus making your own music. When you're working with someone else you have to dig into a specific skill set that matches their sound and energy, where as when you're just doing your own thing, you have ultimate creative freedom. I do really love challenging myself and getting into different scenarios with other artists. It can be really refreshing and inspiring.
Do you ever listen to your own music?
I'm not going to lie, yes I do. But I promise I'm not a total narcissist.... Hahaha.
What other music do you listen to?
Good music. I'm open to any genre, style, or artist, as long as I get a feeling fromwhat I'm listening to. When it resinates with me, I can dig it. It's also always affected by my mood and state of mind in that moment. Sometimes it's deep house, sometimes classical, sometimes something heavier. I love listening to all different styles of music and I think it's really important to do as an artists so that you can hear and understand different techniques.
What do you have planned after your EP is released?
I've got a bunch of shows in Australia and in Europe that are on the boil so I'm excited to get out there and start touring. It's definitely going to be a big year ahead!
