i-Files: Soda Blonde
"Take it a day at a time."
COVID-19 has dominated our screens and consumed our thoughts since the beginning of the year, and whilst the UK’s current lockdown has been slightly relaxed following an update from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, quarantine is slowly being lifted globally and normalcy being restored. Whilst we’ve all adjusted to a new state of “normal”, these new rules mean that previously non-essential outings like recreationally going to the park, unlimited exercise, and meeting one other person from a different household are now allowed, with social distance measures still to be adhered to. 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.
Today, we catch up with Dublin-based band, Soda Blonde, ahead of the anticipated release of their upcoming EP ‘isolation • content’. The group, formed of Faye O’Rourke, Adam O’Regan, Dylan Lynch, Donagh Seaver O’Leary’s began their journey together last year after departing the critically acclaimed Irish band Little Green Cars. Due for release on 29th May, their new project is filled with glorious alt-pop and follows their debut EP, Terrible Hands which was released at the end of 2019. Keep reading to see what they’ve been getting up too…
EQ: Hi all! What are you all doing to stay busy right now?
SB: Besides making music I would say I’m the same as most people. Cooking a lot, eating a lot, sleeping for about 13 hours each night and generally passing the time with wine and TV. I’ve been studying a bit of garden design on the side, so I try and do as much of that as I can, within the restrictions of a ground floor apartment in the middle of town surrounded by concrete.
EQ: With so much content out there right now across socials, is there anything that has stood out to you that you can share?
SB: Other Voices have a beautiful live stream every week on YouTube called Courage. Last week Lisa Hannigan performed in the National Art Gallery in Dublin and it was mesmerising.
YouTube/OtherVoicesLive
EQ: What are the top three tracks on your playlist at the moment? Anything in particular you can’t take of repeat?
SB: ‘Held Down’ - Laura Marling
‘At the Door’ - The Strokes
‘Let Me In’ - Tolü Makay
EQ: What would you recommend we all tune into on Netflix/Amazon Prime?
SB: ‘Midsommar’ on Amazon Prime if you’re up for a few sleepless nights of staring into the abyss wondering what the hell you’ve just watched [laughs]. Daniel Sloss’ stand up shows on Netflix are great as well. He’s a genius.
Instagram/@sodablonde
“Days can seem a bit monotonous at times, so I think the healthiest thing to do is to not put any pressure on myself. Art reflects life and that should come naturally.”
- SODA BLONDE
EQ: What’s a positive mantra that’s getting you through this time?
SB: Take it a day at a time.
EQ: With all the spare time, how are you tapping into your creativity?
SB: It’s definitely challenging trying to keep the creative juices flowing in this climate. Days can seem a bit monotonous at times, so I think the healthiest thing to do is to not put any pressure on myself. Art reflects life and that should come naturally. I have a book of Leonard Cohens poems and lyrics that usually provides me with some thread of inspiration if I’m stuck. He’s my mum’s favourite, so I connect with that a lot at the moment, not being able to see her.
EQ: First place you’ll head to when everyone comes out of isolation?
SB: Well, since pubs are definitely the last things to return I’d say I’ll go where ever I can to see my family and friends. I miss the cinema a crazy amount as well, so that would definitely be near the top of my list.
EQ: What can we look forward to hearing from you in the later in the year? Any exciting projects we should be looking out for?
SB: Well our album is finished so that release is on the horizon. Keep your eyes peeled on our socials for further details. Performance-wise we’ll be getting as creative as possible in how we engage with audiences over the next few months, hopefully finding something new and exciting in the absence of live gigs.
YouTube/Soda Blonde
Stream ‘isolation • content’ HERE
Available on all streaming platforms May 29th
Keep up with Soda Blonde on socials:
Instagram: @SodaBlonde
Twitter: @SodaBlonde
Spotify: Soda Blonde
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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.