Introducing Karl Wootton (Rythmn Guitarist), Angelo Pantelakis (Lead Guitarist), Richard Maxwell Jnr (Drums), Logan Wood (Bass) and Charlie Wootton (Female Vocalist) who are all part of a band called Merrin. With 2 successful releases and powerful live performances throughout 2019 and an already successful release for ‘Save Me’ in Jan 2020, the band are back. The global pandemic hasn’t stopped them from releasing a new single ‘Machine Mind’ which will be out on May 29th 2020, at a time where ‘NZMusicMonth’ is celebrated.
Machine Mind understandably casts a long shadow over this world’s psyche, but its reach will be particular and direct for Merrin. The song delivers on a narrative particularity and interpretive abstraction as well as emotional resonance, while the writing/arranging smarts and the dominant, switchback guitar style are on peak form.
The song is perfectly positioned for release at a time of uncertainty with questions and many feeling like their freedom/rights are being minimised worldwide. The lyrics, “don’t lose yourself” suggests that you don’t lose your sense of knowing what is right for you. Take a deep breath and trust in yourself, take back the freedom to make your own choices even if it doesn’t fit “within the box” speaks directly to what everyone is currently facing.
The band itself are influenced by the likes of Skunk Anansie, Crucified Barbara, Ghost, Mötley Crüe, Twisted Sister and Lynch Mob. We decided to catch up with Merrin with an interview ahead of their imminent release.
What inspired you to get into music?
Not fame… definitely not the money?! Haha. All five of us have been inspired to play music since we were kids. It’s in our blood. Ultimately, we are in it for the music, we love fans and massive opportunities to play.
How would you describe your music?
High energy rock blended with soul and passion.
What would you say is your recording and songwriting style?
In terms of our recording style, we decided a while back to be very specific about what we wanted to achieve, as far as overall sound was concerned. We wanted to keep a very real instrumentation sound, as so much music today is heavily compressed. That’s our main focus every time we hit the studio. When it comes to songwriting, we like keeping ourselves real, accountable and honest as a band. Both the composition and lyrical content are from the heart. Sometimes a bit chaotic but ‘in the moment’. We all write as much as we can together, obviously it’s harder this year due to the pandemic. Thankfully we managed to finish recording ‘Machine Mind’ the weekend before lockdown here in NZ.
Where would you like to see your music career in 5 years time?
The typical dreams of all indie artists. Playing THE big festivals and THE big stages, anywhere that’s crazy enough to take us rockers on.
Where can music fans listen to your music?
On all online streaming platforms. If you struggle to find us, get in contact with us on our website at merrinmadness.com and we’ll point you in the right direction.