i-Files: Harve
"It is completely fine to cater your time to what you need to get through it; respect everyone else's methods of dealing with life right now."
Photography Credit: @tamiaftab
In the days since COVID-19 has dominated our screens, and mandatory self-isolation is being enforced globally, things can seem pretty bleak. With the recent announcement from heads of states following Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s own battle with the Corona Virus, the UK will face a further 3 weeks of mandatory lockdown, which includes all non-essential travel beening restricted, and only urgent outings (including to buy essential food, medicine and exercise once a day). This change – which is set to last for 3 weeks and then will be reviewed - has been imposed as a way of ensuring social distancing measures used to quell the spread of the outbreak. EQUATE took this time to catch up with our favourite artists and creatives for our ‘Isolation Files’ to see what they are doing to keep their spirits up in this time, and bring some positivity to our readers.
South-East London based singer songwriter Harve is an incredible new talent from the LGBTQ+ community, making waves in the electronic world. Infused with a tinge of R&B, they released their latest single ‘Blue For You’ ahead of their EP release ‘Held By The Moon’ out 21st May. They are an incredibly exciting new talent, and with fans in the likes of Celeste, Hunger, Dummy, Glamcult, Jamz Supernova, Mary Ann Hobbs and more - Harve has used her talent’s in songwriting as a form of therapy for over 10 years; processing their life experiences, and traversing the complexities of human emotion.
EQ: Hi Harve! What have you been doing to stay busy right now?
H: My first impulse decision was to buy The Sims 4 (which I highly recommend) which has served as a great distraction, and also gives you a slight bit of control back! But I’m also really trying to get fit in this time; I’ve been running and doing weights and it’s really helped keep sane. Cooking has been a big one too, making meals with my housemates every night has been something to look forward to daily. I’m fortunate enough to have a garden, so I’m making an effort to spend as much time out there as possible; it’s been really calming to see a lot more nature than usual.
I’ve been trying to strike the balance of being productive but also relaxing. I think there is a lot of pressure on people right now to power on through and keep creating, but I’m also in the mind that for some of us, this may be the longest period of time we have had to be with ourselves and recharge.
Instagram: @callmeharve
EQ: What would you recommend we all tune into on Netflix/Amazon Prime?
H: I binged watched Netflix’s Unorthodox in a day; it’s an absolutely captivating series which focuses on an often overlooked community. Obviously, Tiger King was a WILD ride but I wouldn’t have it any other way. There’s also so many excellent Studio Ghilbi films on Netflix right now, which is such perfect timing because I think we could all really do with being transported to a different world right now. And last but not least, there is a new series of Ugly Delicious, so if you’re a foodie I highly recommend.
EQ: What are your top three tracks on your playlist at the moment? Anything in particular you can’t take off repeat?
H: Stay Alive - Mustafa,
Creature From The Deep - Thurmon Green,
Lightning - Orion Sun
The new Orion Sun record is super special, and I’ve had that on repeat.
YouTube/Orion Sun
EQ: With so much content out there right now across socials, is there anything that has stood out to you that you could share?
H: For my LGBTQI+ babies, @them have been sharing some really helpful advice for us in this time. There is so much information and guidance on self-care and also just fun lists of queer film and music to keep you busy.
EQ: Whats a positive mantra that’s getting you through this time?
H: Just to remind myself that this is a totally unique time for everyone. It is completely fine to cater your time to what you need to get through it; respect everyone else’s methods of dealing with life right now. Rest when you need to rest, create when you need to create.
Instagram/@them
EQ: With all the spare time, how are you tapping into your creativity?
H: I’ve tried to add a little structure to my days by allocating time to really working on music. I’m brushing up on my theory, something I never had time to before, and I’m exploring my production skills a little more. It is really hard to write music in a time like this, so I’m being patient with myself, and instead of just focusing on new stuff, I’m worked hard to finish off pieces I hadn’t yet got round to.
EQ: First place you’ll head out to when everyone comes out of isolation?
H: Hopefully Primavera?! But if not, I’m honestly just looking forward to seeing my best friends and chilling together; I’m really missing them.
EQ: What can we look forward to hearing from you later in the year? Any new projects we should be looking out for?
H: My debut EP is out this May which is super exciting; its been a long time in the works so I’m really happy to be putting it out into the world. I’ve been busy in the studio this past year, so hopefully you’ll see another project before the end of the year too.
YouTube/Harve
Stream ‘Blue For You’ HERE
Keep up with Harve on socials:
Instagram: @callmeharve
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For advice or information on the Covid-19 Virus, we recommend that you thoroughly read the NHS’s Corona Virus Advice page.
If you or anyone you know are feeling unwell, and suspect you may have been in contact with an infected individual, then please (as instructed) self-isolate immediately, stay away from vulnerable persons, and call your local 111 service for further advice.
Please remember to wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face with unwashed hands, think about others, and stay safe in this period! ❤️
Love, Team EQUATE.