Glasgow band Long-Distance release their latest single Be a Man, out now.
Be a Man is a moving single that deals with the aftermath of losing a parent. Lead singer Scott Gibbins explains “It is about dealing with grief and trying to fill those shoes as a family unit. It is also a thank you to my mother, for helping me learn how to support her now her husband is gone.” Be a Man feels instantly intimate and undeniably sincere. Gibbins’ strong, haunting lead vocal is able to soar effortlessly over cinematic soundscapes to create something truly atmospheric, sounding akin to the likes of Amber Run or Nothing But Thieves.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Long Distance about challenges, motivations, music consumption preferences, the new project and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
It sounds like a stock answer but it was natural. We never really put much thought into how we want any of our work to sound before we write it. The only thing we try to retain is honesty, as we want our songs to be a real reflection of our emotions, and a bit of pop sensibility too.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
It’s just what we’ve always wanted to do, I don’t think any of us can begin to remember a time when this isn’t what we were thinking about.
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
Other bands, old and new. Paintings, novels, T.V. I find creativity, for me, is so volatile and unpredictable and can be struck by an idea anywhere. We all have an equal and important role to play in the creation of our songs. We write as a collective.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
Aside from releasing a song that deals with one of the most painful things one of us has ever been through and showing the world how that might feel, we have gone a bit further with this one. All profits are being donated to the Simon Community Scotland charity. They help the most vulnerable people in Scotland and we wanted to give back. They’re vital, much more vital than our music could ever be.
What was the last song you listened to?
Poliça – Agree
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Vinyl, it’s something you can hold and is still the most special. And how does it really work?
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify is the most user friendly. Bandcamp is the most artist friendly.
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?
Standing out.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
Spotify.
Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?
We’re playing at Broadcast on the 14th April with Larkins and Noah Noah, who are both class so please check them out.
