Simply Six: Kotadama

Kotadama are a band from Australia.

1.     For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

We have been die hard U2 fans since before we were born and about 4 years ago my brother were watching the live U2 “rattle and hum” DVD and it struck us, why not?, we could learn to play and be cool like those guys.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some of your favorites?

Well U2 as mentioned, Coldplay, Enya, the verve, crowded house and so on.(all the oldies, classics and some new stuff)…

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?

I think the greatest moment so far was the writing and performing our first single, “see you tonight”. The defining moment was really when our now partner, David Kershenbaum contacted us on hearing this song.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to?   How much can music influence current events?

We are strong believers in the power of music and the ability to evoke emotion and response in the listener. We try hard to produce songs which are relevant to our world and our society. So much of the music churned out by the big labels today is simply irrelevant crap. We are determined to produce music, or at least attempt to produce music that may make a difference in a positive way.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology affected your career as a musician?

Technology has had a huge impact on the music industry and we are fortunate here as our dad has worked as an acoustical engineer for over 30 years and has been directly involved in many developments. The development of digital systems and software enables an almost infinite range of instrumental sounds and effects at your fingertips. The traditional sound and mixing studios with the iconic analogue mixing desk is realistically now obsolete (we have found that this is not easy for many in the industry to accept). Despite the tenacious grip of the traditional and diehard producers and studios and big labels, the digital mixing and mastering age has arrived. Cut through the hype and a blind test will easily confirm  this, if you can find a willing producer or sound engineer.

The advances in technology and development of software such as “Pro-tools” and “T-Racks”, allow us to devote many days, and many weeks sometimes, to recording and mixing each one of our songs, something which was not feasible in the oldschool ways. The result is a very well mixed and carefully constructed, carefully EQed song which usually requires little mastering.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?

Cross trainers, (not cross dressers). We would like to think we keep a fairly global perspective across many areas of life, the world, the human emotion.