Inspired #0052 - The Lost Hours
Rising twenty-year-old singer/songwriter The Lost Hours (real name Callum James Hamilton) has just released ‘Lonely Love’ his first track via indie label High Tribe Records. He took a moment to talk to us about his love for the Good Will Hunting soundtrack and the inspiration behind his new track.
Who are your top three musical inspirations?
My first inspiration is 70’s folk musician John Martyn. Mainly for his overall musicianship. For me to ever come close to his level would be amazing! He inspired me to utilize the guitar in a way I don’t think anyone ever has. I’m inspired by Radiohead. I think they are a special band. There has never been any creative boundary. Each album has always been a massive juxtaposition from their last work. I admire their fearlessness is creation, they’re not afraid to be different, even if it means polarising fans. My final influence is ‘The Boss’ Bruce Springsteen. He is a master songwriter. Through his music, I’ve witnessed life as a blue-collar American. He inspires me to be an honest songwriter and storyteller.
Is there a certain film that inspires you?
The film that always inspires me is Good Will Hunting. Not only does the soundtrack make me want to pick up an instrument, but the raw storyline cuts right to the bone. Matt Damon's performance alongside Elliot Smith's music enchants and inspires. It always makes me work hard, ask questions and stay well clear of any form of elitism that comes knowledge, power or talent.
What city do you find the most inspiring?
Surprisingly, this is an interesting one to answer. I do all my creating in London, so it must be London? However Leeds is my home town, the people here inspire me. I find I’m stuck with the Springsteen stigma. The love and hate relationship and the hometown Springsteen anxiety. “Tramps like us, baby we were born to run”. I don’t know. Inspiration doesn’t find me, regardless of the location in my experiences.
Who is the most inspiring person to you?
If this is in a musical pretense there is no one individual. I’m inspired every day by my peers. I’m always inspired (and way over my head) when I work with top Songwriters. I want to be a better musician by working with top players. I’ve been inspired by speaking to now close friends who’ve spent years in this mad industry. I can’t choose just one person.
What were your inspirations when writing the track?
I wanted to cement a prominent groove throughout. At the time I was inspired by ‘This must be the place’ by Talking Heads. I wanted an anxious sense of melancholy so David Byrne inspired me massively. Whether that be his lyricism, his delivery or his multiple idiosyncrasies.
How would you like to inspire people?
Firstly I’d like to encourage people to create. It would be a great honor to inspire someone to pick up an instrument and create music. I would also like to inspire people to think freely and express themselves in whatever way they want too. Nothings black and white when it comes to freedom of expression.