Artist Spotlight: Yumi Zouma

Composed of members Christie Simpson (vocals, keyboard), Josh Burgess (guitar, bass, vocals, keyboard), Charlie Ryder (guitar, bass, keyboards) and Olivia Campion (drums), Yumi Zouma have just released their new album. We caught up with Charlie to chat about the album and more ahead of the band's gig at Garage (G2) on 23rd March. 

Released on Friday, how does your latest album No Love Lost to Kindness reflect where you are musically right now, and what do you hope fans connect with when they listen?

It is basically us leaning into extremes and being influenced by what we are listening to at present instead of trying to be restrained and clean, or worrying about what might be critically well received. We just followed whatever felt fun, even if it might not usually make sense for a Yumi Zouma record. I hope people connect with it in a low-stakes way and just enjoy the songs!

How would you describe your sound to someone who hasn’t heard you before?

Melancholic synth pop that started leaning into anthemic arena rock music. Guitar music with pretty bits and some subtle sadness...not usually something you would play to hype yourself up before running...but maybe that's changing with the new album! Oh, and lots of hooks!

What’s a typical day like in the studio when you’re recording?

Set up a bunch of stuff. Troubleshoot the things that aren't working. Listen back to all our demos. Spend an hour chatting. Take a break to eat brunch. Come back and jam. Accidentally make something fun while trying to make something else!

Where do you usually find inspiration for your songs?

From each other! And from things we had forgotten. Things we were not paying attention to at the time.

If you could collaborate with an artist, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

Everyone in one room and at their peak! Shakespeare, New Order, Bach, Fleetwood Mac, Beethoven, Nirvana, Picasso, Adel Taarabt, Garbage, Michelangelo, Hole, Silverchair, Salvador Dali, Shihad, Stellar, Tadpole, Frida Kahlo, Republica, Elsastica, David Bowie, Mozart, Bob Dylan, Prince and Hatem Ben Arfa.

Don't miss Yumi Zouma at Garage (G2) on 23rd March. Tickets available now.