Bad Weather talks ‘The Man or The Boy’
The latest release from Boorlo/Perth indie act Bad Weather is here and Callum Robertson and Jono Dimascio have dived head first into the honest and heartfelt single ‘The Man or The Boy’. We chatted with them about the single, working with Michael Bono and the ability to write vulnerably.
You don't shy away from being vulnerable especially in the new single. Is it important for you to explore this through your music?
Absolutely! I think it’s the only way to be when writing. If I wasn’t honest or open in my music then it feels like there’s no point for me. Being vulnerable and earnest in my private life is a lot harder for me than being able to write down my thoughts and feelings. Music has always been that outlet for me.
What was it like working with Michael Bono on 'The Man or The Boy'?
It was amazing! We’ve known Michael for years now and worked with him on a heap of music we’ve released. Every time we step into the studio with him it’s just a bunch of mates hanging out. He makes it really easy for me to be comfortable and open in a creative situation. He’s also an absolute wizard when it comes mixing and vocal production.
How has the creative process differed in this new era of music compared to the last?
To be honest not much has changed. I think we’ve just learnt a lot more as writers and producers and become a lot better at our craft. One thing we’ve tried to do more of is simplify everything. We used to overanalyse our songs and fall into this perpetual cycle of nitpicking everything from the way a part sounded or a certain inflection in the vocals. We’d just end up over-producing the song and in turn lose the original magic of the first demo. Now, we really try to embrace the idea that ‘if it sounds good or feels good, it probably is’.
Do you have go-to songs that you listen to when you feel you're in a rut or not in the best headspace?
There’s absolutely loads for me. I create private playlists on Spotify all the time for certain moods. If I need a cry, I’ll put on Joni Mitchell’s 2002 version of ‘Both Sides Now’. I cannot listen to that song without weeping *haha. If I need some motivation I’ll probably go listen to Michael Jackson or Phil Collins. When I’m feeling a little low I find a lot of solace in putting on my headphones and going for a walk. Music to me always sounds better when you’re going somewhere.
If you had to pick 5 songs to have on repeat right now, which would you choose?
Mk.Gee - Are You Looking Up
Sade - Hang On to Your Love
Bobby Caldwell - What You Won’t Do for Love
Michael Jackson - Workin’ Day and Night
Burial - Archangel
