Formed in its members’ final years of high school, Auckland quartet Artisan Guns has achieved much in its short existence. Now with two EP’s behind them (their debut effort Bird & Bone and the excellent new Hearts), the band has also been recently nominated for an APRA Silver Scroll award. Critic had a quick chat with the band to discuss their past, the nomination, and their upcoming Dunedin show.
How does your live show differ now, from your very first gig?
We don’t look so scared anymore! I guess it’s a lot more personal now, and we try to be more involved with the audience, and people seem to respond to that. It’s one of the best things about playing live music.
How does it feel to be nominated for an APRA Silver Scroll Award?
Quite unreal, to tell you the truth. It’s quite humbling to have our name alongside a lot of the other nominees. Many of them are artists/songs that we really love and look up to.
What’s the most important lesson you’ve learnt from being in Artisan Guns?
One of the most important things I’ve learnt is that people really appreciate detail. It’s the little things that set you apart from other bands. If you’re asking yourself, “Is it really worth the effort?” the answer is, yes, it’s almost always worth the effort. Also, pack a jacket when going on tour. If you decide not to take one, your mum will probably pack one for you anyway. And that’s embarrassing.
Give Critic readers some words to live by?
Seize the day! No, seriously, I have been getting up earlier lately and it’s really increased my productivity. So try setting your alarm one hour earlier.
Artisan Guns play at Refuel on Friday July 23, with support from Lisa Crawley & The Conversations, and Tono and the Finance Company.
***WIN! Critic has five Heart EPs to give away! Email music@critic.co.nz to go in the draw***
ARTISAN GUNS
