BIMM Brighton alternative rock three-piece, Isla, exploded onto the music scene in the past few years. With their blend of conventional rock and guitar riffs, their sound creates an emotional and energetic atmosphere.
We caught up with them about their latest release ‘Don’t Love Me’ – listen now.
What was your inspiration when you began writing the track?
I was very angry with the world and everything that was and is going on around us; there is something very cathartic about writing an angry song for sure. Elements of self-loathing and social depression are apparent; about how society tries to cram people in boxes, making people feel unworthy because of trends, appearance or social following on Instagram. It’s a big F U to the whole mainstream culture that seems to have infected our way of living and it is also a message to people that you should feel comfortable in your own skin.
Are there any artists that inspire you when writing?
Chris Cornell and Josh Homme are massive inspirations to me in terms of songwriting as, in my opinion, they have written some of the best songs that define the genre of rock and inspire me on a daily basis.
What is key to your sound and how do you make your music stand out?
We love the much darker sound that our producers have developed with us during our time in pre-production and studio. Working with new producers has allowed us to express the attitude that we bring to the stage straight to the recording studio. It’s the kind of music that we all love to play and it’s our shared passion to make rock music comes through in our recordings and live performances.
How does your songwriting process work?
Ed will write the main body of a song, which the band collectively works on structurally in a rehearsal. We add and change elements, throwing ideas in until we are happy and feel that we have gone as far as we can go with it. Songwriting mainly happens randomly and when Ed’s been sober for a month! Dry January works wonders.
Describe your sound in 3 words…
Fuzzy. Riffy. Dirty.
How has studying at BIMM helped you develop as an artist?
During our time at BIMM Brighton, we used various workshops and tutorials to help us rebrand and develop our techniques, aiding us in the process of working together as a band from songwriting to performing as well as more administrative tasks.
What’s next for you?
We’ve got new music coming out at the end of November… and fingers crossed for live music VERY SOON!
