Nottingham Pop Punks Catch Fire recently released their sophomore EP A Love That I Still Miss via Rude Records. Comprised of vocalist Miles Kent, guitarists Tim Bell and Neal Arkley, drummer Ash Wain and bassist Joseph Ryan Askew, they formed ashes of local heroes Layby and released debut EP The Distance I Am From You via Rude Records in early 2016.
For ALTISM the guys spent three weeks in the studio with Myroslav Borys of Jigsaw Audio, having found a good chemistry with the producer when recording December’s cover of Alessia Cara’s “Wild Things.” If you’re a fan of emo-tinged pop punk, with intricate guitars and driving rhythm, evoking Trash Boat and Knuckle Puck, then you’ll certainly be wanting to listen in! Now Ash gives us more insight into the band, as he talks lyrics…
How do you write your lyrics? What is your process either as a band or individually? Have you ever suffered from writer’s block and if so, how did you overcome it?
I tend to write most of the lyrics, usually from reflecting on past experiences. It’s safe to say that I’m quite an emotive person, and I’m not afraid to convey exactly how I feel when writing lyrics. Sometimes lyrics will just form themselves in my head, and I’ll have to stop whatever it is I’m doing so I can write them down. There’s been plenty of times where I’ve told myself that I’d remember them, to no avail. I always used to enjoy English at school, and l loved using metaphors and hyperboles, I think that’s where I discovered my ability to write creatively.
What is the lyric you’re proudest of and why?
It’s got to be between “Does the devil on your left put your mind to any sort of rest, because the one on mine tells me you’re not likely to miss me.” From “Introspective Pt II” or “We’ve tried this a million times but I miss the way you used to ask me ‘do you like how this dress fits?’” from “Reality”. Those are very special lines to me.
What themes and topics do you like to cover and why?
I’ve not been through too much pain or distress, compared to some people. I’ve been graced with a loving family and friends, and for the most part I’m a relatively happy-go-lucky guy. However, I seem to have the worst luck when it comes to relationships. I tend to write about past experiences and lessons I’ve learned from being in these relationships. I suppose it’s a good thing really, I’d have nothing to write about otherwise.
Has anyone ever misheard, perhaps to comedic effect, or misunderstood the intention of your lyrics?
Not that I can think of… although in “Lucid”, it sounds like Miles sings “day by day, you watch reople grow” instead of “people grow”. He swears blind he sang it right. Who knows.
Which of your lyrics best sums up your band?
“I’m sick of waking up.” We’re kind of nihilistic, sorry.
If you had to have any lyric tattooed on you if you don’t already, what would you pick?
I have “Bad Behaviour” tattooed on my arm already. It’s one of my favourite songs we’ve ever written, amongst being one of the first.
What lyric do you wish you’d written and why?
“I know some day you’ll have a beautiful life, I know you’ll be the star in somebody else’s sky, but why, why, why can’t it be, can’t it be mine?” Pearl Jam – Black. This lyric chills me to the bone every time I hear it. You can hear the pain in Eddie’s voice in every word.
Who are your favourite lyricists or even writers for content such as film, TV or even poetry? What are some of the lines that best connect with you? Do you take influence from that?
Eddie Vedder, Parker Cannon, Patrick Stump, Bob Marley, Dave Grohl, there are so many. I don’t really take inspiration from anyone lyrically, as I’m just writing about things I’ve been through. Regarding melodies, I suppose it’s fair to say Miles has his inspirations.
What are the worst lyrics you’ve ever heard?
Every song by Attila is an insult to music. Expletives do not make your songs cool. Write something on substance, that actually means something. Please.
Finally, please sign off with some lyrical words of wisdom…
Embrace your sadness/happiness. It’s a great outlet for all thoughts and feelings. Dramatise things, make it artistic, use metaphors, paint a picture, be expressive and creative.
