Some of you may still remember this post, about the first time I got acquainted with Jacco Gardner, a Dutch folk musician. Ever since that time, things have been happening and Jacco is getting the recognition he deserves, with international press mentions (Pitchfork and NME, to name only a few) and concerts! As his music is great and he will no doubt become far busier, I jumped in and asked him for a little interview, which he was kind enough to do. Enjoy!
When did you start making music?
I started playing an instrument when I was about 10 years old but I didn’t start writing until I learned the guitar when I was about 16.
I understand you have studied music, do you think that you need to have a formal education in music to be a good musician/artist?
No not at all, it can help in certain areas, but you can be a good artist in many different ways.
What inspires you the most for your music and lyrics?
I’d say other music mostly and mysteries of my own life. The search for who I am and why things happen keeps me thinking and this helps in the creative process.
How would you describe your musical style, for someone who hasn’t heard it yet?
60’s influenced pop music with a moody fairytale-like cinematical feel. The genres “Baroque Pop” and “Neo-Psych” can be applied.
Tell us a little bit about your most recent work.
I’ve just recorded a cover for Trouble In Mind to release on record store day. It will be a lot more up tempo than people are used to.
What are your current aspirations and objectives?
I want to perform a lot to promote the album and become more experienced on stage. I’d like to see the world while touring. I’m very curious about how the album will be received by the people that know the songs I’ve released so far.
What do you prefer – studio recording or playing live? Why?
Studio recording. It’s more easy for me to translate the music in my head to a studio recording, where all sounds are possible. In a live situation the music is more shaped by my band and doesn’t feel as personal. I want to get more exeperienced in this though.
When you are not making music, what are your favourite activities?
I think my favorite other activity would be to hang out with friends, preferably girls. I also like going to concerts of bands I like and I’m into movies.
What is your favourite place to be in your town?
Might be an obvious answer but; my studio. Other than that there’s really nothing here for me in this town.
I’ve seen some of your photos and I think you dress very stylishly. What inspires you the most when you choose your clothes?
Diffirent things. I like some story personalities like the Mad Hatter or Willy Wonka, but also people like Brian Jones (who always dresses very well) but I guess also Syd Barrett or other 60’s icons. I’m into the ’67 carnaby street sort of thing. I feel like I could dress a lot better though, if I had some money to invest in it.
What’s your favourite and most treasured item and why?
I’d say my Optigan organ. Because it’s unique, rare and magical. The sounds coming from that instrument are spooky and dreamy and instantly perfect.
What’s your next project going to be like?
I’m going to produce the album of Earth Mk II, the new band of Hugo, a very good friend of mine (who is also in The Skywalkers). This album should be finished around summertime!
Any dates and places we can see you play in the near future?
Sure! I’ll be touring the US in March but I’ll also be at Le Beat Bespoke in London at the end of March. I’ll be touring Europe after that, but also some dates before, in February (Paris, Berlin etc). There’s an app on the facebook page that has all tour dates.
If you want to say anything else, please feel free!
Well I’d like to thank you for your interest and patience as it took me a while to finish this interview.
You may find Jacco’s Facebook page here and his Youtube channel here. Go listen to some songs, you won’t regret it!
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