Nexus Meets… Artist- Lost Like Alice. Catching Up For FOCUS Wales Appearance.
Today we catch up with Ben Parker of Lost Like Alice who is set to play FOCUS Wales this weekend following the release of his EP ‘20‘ in recent months. Ben is looking to showcase a variety of material for which has seen him land airtime on Radio Wales and multiple stations around the world. He has also had support from blogs such as The Indiependent, Blues Marie and us here at Nexus to name but a few.
FOCUS Wales is an annual multi-venue festival taking place in Wrexham, North Wales, which places the music industry spotlight firmly on the emerging talent that Wales has to offer the world. FOCUS Wales will showcase 200+ bands, fill out a variety of spaces and music venues, using 20 stages, and host a full schedule of Interactive Industry Sessions, Stand-up Comedy, Arts events, and Film screenings, throughout the festival.
What’s been going on in the last few months in the world of Lost Like Alice?
In April I took a month off, to start working on new material and get back in the studio. It’s been really refreshing working on new songs, with a completely new sound that I’m crazy excited about! I can’t reveal too much yet but it’s going to be a big one! I don’t mean in terms of what it will do commercially, but the sound is absolutely huge! I’m now gearing up for a bunch of festival slots this summer, getting 20 out to as many people as possible.
Your performance at FOCUS Wales is upon us! How are you feeling?
I feel great! It’s a festival I’ve wanted to perform at for a very long time, and am beyond excited to be a part of all that this year! There’s such a high quality of acts, and am honoured to be amongst them!
What do you think is so important about Festivals like FOCUS Wales?
Focus Wales really highlights the music out of Wales, where so many incredible artists create their sound! They give brilliant opportunities to local artists, as well as bringing high profile acts from all over the world! They really give the performers the chance to get into the music industry, with industry speakers, and all sorts of brilliant activities that are so useful to people like myself.
What does it mean to you as an artist to have the opportunity to do these kind of events?
It’s honestly incredible! I did a lot of shows last year, and am finally at a point where I’m getting offered these fantastic events and opportunities, and that’s just the icing on the cake really!
Does your preparation for a festival slot differ to that of a gig?
It honestly depends on the event. The lead up is the same mostly, you do your set list, relentlessly practise, but on the night all shows are different, it’s just about who’s there!
Are you looking forward to seeing a particular artist perform?
I was blown away to see that Gary Lucas who co-wrote Jeff Buckley’s “Grace”, was playing at Focus Wales last night, but unfortunately couldn’t make it which sucks beyond belief! I’m looking forward to hearing new bands I’ve never heard of, and hopefully come away with some new favourites! That’s the best thing about festivals!
Following this appearance, what other events are you looking forward to playing over the next few months?
I’ve got a load of festival slots coming up this summer, in Wales, Lancashire and all over the place! I’m returning to Manchester on May 24th, to play the Eagle Inn in Salford, supporting New York band, Fruit & Flowers! I can’t wait! Tickets are available if you fancy coming for a dance!
What’s the most important piece of advice that you would give to artists looking to get involved in events like this?
Just work hard, put the groundwork in, and soon enough people will take notice! Everyone’s unique, and as musicians that makes for incredible diversity which is so important!