An Interview with Nikki from Band 'Tulane' + Guest Playlist
Source: Nikki / Grandpa Records
Images of Nikki photographed by Amy Huynh
Image of duo photographed by Harry Raab
Sydney-based music duo Tulane has a simple yet fool-proof storytelling formula: one guitar (Nikk Retalic) and one voice (Nikki Malvar). The indie / pop / roots act wonderfully describes itself as "the pairing of a starry-eyed girl and world-weary old man" and Whim Online Magazine was lucky enough to recently chat to the aforementioned "starry-eyed girl" of the band, Nikki.
Please read on for a Q&A with the talented, creative soul and to listen to the guest playlist she made for us!
Q: How would you describe your duo-act, Tulane?A: Tulane is the coming together of two minds and two hearts. Our music is sweet and folky, sometimes borrowing sounds from the gypsies and stories from our memories
Q: We understand Tulane will be releasing its debut single 'But I Stay' on the 22nd of September. This is a beautiful and emotional song - Can you please tell us a little more about the story behind this track?A: I didn't expect to write this song. But it's a little tale I penned after a little fling. Even people of sound mind and sound body make lapses of judgement sometimes...
Q: What inspires Tulane's music and creativity the most?A: My grandfather died of an aneurysm about four months ago, and I was completely devastated. We were very close. I spent a long time avoiding social gatherings, seeing anyone, and basically just keeping to myself. I spent a lot time crying and grieving, and being comforted by my boyfriend.... who is Nikk, the other half of Tulane. We decided to find a constructive vehicle for my grief and started playing music together again. Our act is named after Tulane University in New Orleans, where my grandpa spent time as a youth. So I guess to answer, Tulane is inspired by love. I hope that's not a cheesy thing to say!
Q: What do you hope to achieve with your musical career in the not-too-distant future?A: The steady build! Put out more releases, hopefully get to play at some festivals, a publishing deal, and the opportunity to get future music licensed to a film or something cool! Outside of Tulane, my band Thyrsday will releasing our debut EP by the end of the year, and Nikk has some cool little projects up his sleeve.
Q: Where can Whim's readers listen to your music?A: Triple J Unearthed please! We're always very appreciative of rates and reviews. Plus you can downlodad the track for FREE over there! Otherwise, you can stream at Soundcloud. We'll be posting new music updates and gigs on our Facebook page.
www.triplejunearthed.com/artist/tulanewww.soundcloud.com/tulanemusicauswww.facebook.com/tulanemusicaus
"I wanted a make a cohesive playlist perfect for starting your day on the right note, or maybe for a little bit of an afternoon delight. It's a set full of textured melodies and gorgeous voices. All of these songs and Australian acts deserve so much more recognition and support.
Special mention to the last track in the set - By Your Side. It's the most infectious, wonderfully written pop-song. Alison also runs my favourite open mic night in Sydney - The Vic in Enmore on a Tuesday night, but her home is the gorgeous Newsagency :)"