The song that gave the band it’s name… ‘Sam Gifford and The Innocent’ have unleashed their indie rock track ‘Innocence.
Innocence is a hard hitting and energetic single with a huge emphasis on guitars. Simultaneously, from a lyrical perspective, the song talks about the capability to redeem yourself from your past mistakes. This song follows the band’s first two singles, ‘What You Want‘ and ‘Greater Good’, which will be included on the forthcoming five track EP to be released later this year.
Sam’s songs offer a lyrical depth and maturity that is at odds with his youth and set him apart from many of his peers. His songs talk of finding hope, courage, beauty and redemption in the midst of the struggle of everyday life, and Sam sings with an authentic and passionate voice which connects with a wide audience.
A “band of brothers” by day, on stage their powerful and exuberant performances move seamlessly from a tightly rehearsed set to a relaxed spontaneity with the boys and the crowd feeding off each other’s energy. The band have most notably just returned from their first ever international tour in Germany.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Sam about the latest project, motivations, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
We are based in London in the UK. In terms of our style, I aim to create songs which are both atmospheric and anthemic sonically. However, the main focus of my songwriting is found within the lyrics.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
I began playing music when I was about 13 years old. Drums were my first passion and I was a part of many bands through the years as a drummer. It has only been within the last two years that I publicised my true passion for songwriting and performing as a frontman. What motivates me to keep going is my love for music. I wouldn’t be able to stop writing songs if I tried.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
‘Innocence’ is very different from a musical point of view. Our past two singles definitely have a hint of ‘pop’ in them. However, ‘Innocence’ shows off our scrappier, angrier and darker side. We were really trying to accomplish a sense of the energy we possess in our live shows within this song.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
Being a band in London is quite intimidating. I don’t think there are many places in the world where it is so hard for your voice to be heard above such a mass of competition.
Obviously the digital age allows people all over the world to hear our music which is fantastic! We were lucky enough to tour in Germany earlier this year and it is because of the digital age that we are able to begin building fan bases in these countries.
What was the last song you listened to?
John Mayer’s ‘Waiting On The World To Change’. I will admit my phone was just on shuffle but John Mayer is a favourite of mine and his ‘Continuum’ album doesn’t posses a bad track.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I’m a CD man. I like the idea of having a physical collection of music. I understand a collection of vinyls looks more satisfying but I want to hear music in the best quality possible as the artist would have intended.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
I actually don’t have a Spotify account… I tend to use iTunes but…. I would still rather have my CDs.
Where is the best place to find out more about your music?
All of our music is on the major music platforms, We are also very active on all our social medias and we also have our own website (samgiffordandtheinnocent.com). You can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube in order to stay in the loop.
Anything else before we sign off?
Just keep supporting new artists! See you in America soon 😉
