Band of the Week #281 - Wings of Desire
This week's Band of the Week is hazy, anthemic rock duo Wings of Desire - who have just released their new EP 'Shut Up & Listen'.
The EP comes with an exclusive cassette - all the proceeds of which will go towards community project The Long Table in their native Stroud, which is under threat of eviction. The release is accompanied by a cinematic video for the title track, ‘Shut Up & Listen’. It is a black & white western-inspired film directed by award-winning filmmaker Amber Little. Amber’s short documentary ALL THE KING’S MEN premiered at Sheffield Doc/Fest and went on to win the award for Best 19-25 Short Film at the BFI Future Film Festival 2020. Since then Amber’s work has spanned documentary and music videos, working with major labels and with a particular focus on working in collaboration with female artists.
They took a moment to talk us about how the EP came together.
Hey there Wing Of Desire, how are you? So your EP is out now – how does it feel to have it out there?
Chloe: It’s been a really fulfilling project, not only have we been putting out work that we are really proud of - we’ve also been raising money for a beautiful community project that we are passionate about. We hope people have been enjoying the music.
It is called ‘Shut Up & Listen’ – what is the meaning behind that?
James : Sometimes the best thing you can do in life is sit back, quiet the mind and listen. It’s an art form in its self. We can’t be always be ‘doing’.
I guess if we listened to ourselves and the planet more we would be living in a much better place.
Where was it recorded? Any behind the scenes stories you are willing to share with us?
James : All of our records are recorded at home with not the best recording gear. I like to take a DIY approach to making music. I don’t really like the sound of a record that’s just had unlimited cash thrown at it. Takes away the magic in my opinion. So not really any crazy behind the scenes stories. Other than me pissing off the neighbours.
What are the key influences behind the EP?
James : Influences on this EP are Berlin era Bowie. The Waterboys. The Beat Poets. And gnosticism.
If the EP could be a soundtrack to any film – which one and why?
Chloe: There are so many films that inspire us, we often have a movie still in mind whilst writing. The video for Shut Up & Listen was actually inspired by a few films including The 400 Blows, Nomadland, and Bait. If the EP could soundtrack any film I’d probably see it working best with something with vast landscapes like Badlands or Paris, Texas, or even The Virgin Suicides for that intimate melancholia that’s tinged with optimism.
Do you have a favourite lyric on the EP? If so, which one and why?
Chloe: A lump in my throat, A punch in the gut, When I say i’m doing fine, I really mean you’re no friend of mine.
Now I’m getting tired and low, Because you’re always in control. And the TV’s on a roll about some old place I used to know.
Now the EP is out there – what next for you?
Chloe: We have a few more festivals this summer and then we will play our biggest show to date on October 1st at Bush Hall in London. Tickets on sale now.
