The Brighton singer-songwriter tells us about his year and the release of new album 'Carnival'.
Photo: Holly Cooper | Words: Lloyd Bolton
Brighton artist Nick Austin released new album 'Carnival' in 2024, reasserting his ability to meld folk magic with a form of social realism, manifesting in story songs that take root from lived experience but branch out into stranger territories. He talks us through his 2024, including personal highlights and favourite releases.
Tell us about your 2024 in brief.
I released a new album this year called 'Carnival'. It got some really nice feedback including my first print review in Shindig!. Did some fun gigs, my favourite being a Melting Vinyl support slot for Lemoncello which had a special atmosphere. I'd say my highlight of the year was recording the album with Julian at Church Road studios in Hove. Recording is my favourite part of making music, and Church Road is such a good space to work.
What is your Album of the Year and why?
I can't choose one! My top albums have been Adrienne Lenker 'Bright Future', because I think she's one of the best songwriters around at the moment, and also Fabiano Do Nascimento, 'The Room', for the guitar playing. Also I'll cheat and say the remaster of Elliott Smith 'From a Basement on a Hill' because I'm obsessed. All of these albums have incredible melodies and songwriting and I can't pick a favourite.
How about Song of the Year?
The Lemon Twigs, 'My Golden Years' for the memory of seeing them at End of the Road festival and singing along to this with my best mates. The Lemon Twigs are an incredible live band, I'd recommend to anyone!
Favourite live show you've seen 2024 and why?
Sam Amidon at End of the Road festival felt like a really special gig. I was in the front row in a stage in the woods at night, it was perfect for his music.
What was your highlight of the year?
It's got to be recording the album at Church Road like I said earlier. I love everything about recording and I haven't found a better place to work.
Favourite thing someone's said about your music?
I've been getting really nice messages from people around the world who like the new album. This means loads to me, I don't play live as much as I'd like to at the moment and this really keeps me going. I had someone from Armenia telling me they have been working on illustrations inspired by my songs which was so nice to hear.
…and the strangest thing someone's said about your music?
I've had gigs where different people say totally different things, like one person saying it's cosy and reminds them of The Beatles and another saying they like how sad and dark it is. But they both watched the same show which I find funny. I like it when this happens, I think it means the audience is thinking about themselves when they listen and bringing their own interpretation - which is my goal as a songwriter.
What you're looking forward to in 2025
Recording again! I'm working on about 5 songs at the moment that I'm excited about, want to try new things out and maybe add more instruments. Non-music related, I'm qualifying as a social worker in March which has been a long time coming.
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