Artist Of The Week #197 - Mallrat
This week’s Artist of the Week is the multi-talented artist and performer Mallrat - who has just delivered her highly anticipated debut album ‘Butterfly Blue’ via Nettwerk.
On her debut full-length, Mallrat — aka Grace Shaw — embodies the spirit of its titular creature, but without the delicacy that keeps you at a distance. Over a dozen clever and open-hearted tracks, she draws you in close and shows you the world through her wide, hopeful eyes.
She took a moment to talk to us about how the album came together.
Hey there Mallrat - how are you? So your debut album is finally here, how does it feel to have it out there in the world?
Hello! I'm good thanks - it feels incredible to be able to share what I've been working on for such a long time. I'm excited for people to hear it!
It is called ‘Butterfly Blue’ - what is the meaning behind that?
The title track is the last song on the album - although I love butterflies, It's not a deep metaphor about metamorphosis or anything like that, I just love insects and find myself talking and thinking about butterflies a lot.
Where was it recorded? Any behind the scenes stories from the creative process you are happy to share with us?
It was recorded in lots of different places over about four years. Some in my bedroom in Melbourne, others in L.A, London - and a bunch at my friend's studios. My favourite moment's in the process involved late nights in the studio with my friends Alice Ivy and Japanese Wallpaper.
What are the key themes and influences on the album?
The influences vary from old Johnny Cash albums to the textures and aggression of SOPHIE production.
If your album could be a soundtrack to any film - which one and why?
Maybe an upcoming Academy/Oscars/Grammy/Sundance Award winner
Do you have a favorite lyric on the album? If so, which one and why?
"I always thought magic was something that could happen" in Heart Guitar is really cute.
Now the album is out there - whats next for you?
Lots of touring and writing another album in there somewhere!
