Brighton newcomers Safe To Swim return with addictive new single Friends, out now!
The single is packed with a punch from the offset, filled with huge hooks, pulsating drum beats and an undeniably infectious singalong chorus. Frontman Jim Filippides’ colloquial vocal style is instantly reminiscent of the likes of The Magic Gang’s Jack Kaye but with his own unique energy and flare oozing out by the bucketload. Talking about the track, Jim explains,
It was inspired after speaking to a couple of my friends who had tragically lost someone very close to them. Based from what I was told, the song was born.”
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Safe To Swim about their latest project, motivations, challenges, music consumption preferences 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)?
I’m not sure. I just try to make the sort of music that I’d like to hear.
What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?
I’ve always enjoyed music and had an obsession with it. I guess Guitar Hero pushed me to pick up guitar and then it all stemmed from there.
Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?
Nothing in particular musically. It’s usually after the song is written when I realise what I may have ripped off. My songs are influenced from my thoughts, people’s stories, things I read, watch and hear.
I wouldn’t say that my tastes have changed but I definitely listen to a wider variety of music than I did say 10 years ago.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
For our upcoming EP I’m planning to follow themes of loss, depression and a desire to go back to simpler and happier times. These are all thoughts and feelings I’ve felt strongly over the past year or so.
What was the last song you listened to?
“Saw You In A Dream” – The Japanese House
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I prefer vinyl but I love the accessibility and cost of streaming so the latter always wins.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I use Tidal Music… kidding! What a flop that was. Spotify all the way.
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?
I think in a way it’s even more challenging for up and coming artists than before but at the same time, there are so many more resources (AWAL, Spotify for Artists, BBC Introducing etc.) to help us get our music out there without the need of a label… which really is a good thing.
The biggest problem in my opinion is that because there is so much new music out there and so many artists releasing music, doing the same thing that it’s even harder to shine through the sea of SoundCloud links bombarded at people everyday. Music has lost a bit of it’s value and it’s much more throwaway than it ever was. Every Friday the spotlight shines on someone else.
We’ve actually found that for us, the best way to pick up new fans is to go old school and tour. That’s something we’re working on.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?
You can find our music on Spotify, Apple Music, SoundCloud, YouTube, Amazon Music, Google Play etc.
And you can keep up to date with us on Instagram @safetoswim, Twitter @safetoswim and Facebook @safetoswimband.
Anything else you’d like to add before signing off?
Keep up to date with us and come and say hi at a show. We’ve got some exciting things to show you!
