For regular readers of our new music feature, PULSE, you might recall my prattling on about Tessera Skies back in its 8th EDITION. If not, here’s a quick spot of catch up for you; Tessera Skies are a three-piece based out of Newcastle upon Tyne, who create songs within soundscapes that sound as stunning as the image their band name conjures in your noggin – combing ambient atmospheres, serene synths, introspective indie, steadily rising structures, pristine pop, and vocals that recall Fleet Foxes and The Antlers.
I recently got hold of Ben from the band and the resulting Q&A followed. So, be a love and pop on Tessera Skies most recent release, a split with Ajimal for Mono, and get to know the band a little better.
Hello there Tessera Skies, how are things and which of the Skies (or Tesseras) am I talking to?
Hello there, Culture Vulture. Things are great thanks, how are you? You’re talking to Ben.
We recently gave yourselves some cover in an edition of our new music feature, PULSE. In case it didn’t come across in colourful rambling, in your own words, what are Tessera Skies all about? What are you aiming for?
We’re a group of guys who write pop music for the more atmospherically inclined.
Loosely speaking of first impressions, you recently became the debut release (alongisde Ajimal) from new label Mono? How did the signing and the double a side come about?
Mono is fronted by Mick Ross, James Henin and Jonathan Hamilton; three close friends of the band. The label wanted to create a platform to showcase the best northern art and music. Ajimal and Tessera Skies have collaborated on many projects over the last couple of years with the support and production expertise of Mick, so the label thought it would be an interesting idea to feature both artists on their first release as a way of recognising and appreciating the work both bands have done together.
In regard to you sound, you’ve captured a characteristically beautiful and aesthetically pleasing sound, but managed to maintain a depth of sentiment and complexity. What would you say have been some of the biggest influences on you as a band?
We’re big fans of progressive and ambient music. We draw a lot of inspiration from bands such as Sigur Ros, Wild Beasts, Beach House, and Guillemots. I think when we approach writing, we try to create a piece of music that gradually builds and draws you into a particular space. We don’t like to over saturate or give too much too quickly.
Outside of music and the band, what are some of your other biggest influences and passions, or what non-musical influences affect the band?
Matt is a keen squash player, so has an acute ability to keep us motivated during times of creative need. It’s that or 20 laps of the studio… Mark does a lot of work in sound engineering so is an asset in the recording side of the music. I’d like to think my extensive research into terrible jokes helps keeps spirits high. Some may argue otherwise.
Of course you’ve recently released this single, what’s next on the cards release-wise for the band? more singles? EPs? An LP? Or is it all under wraps and I should shut my damn mouth?
Haha. Not at all. We’ll be releasing our next single in May. There are a nice couple of surprises to come with that so watch this space.
In regards to the future, what are your plans for touring, or supporting, or one off gigs? Where can our readers and soon to be your avid fans catch you live?
We’re looking forward to playing the Sage Gateshead with Bridie Jackson and The Arbour on 22nd May. That’s the next big one coming up.
Speaking of a tour, what can you not go on tour without?
We all like our sleep, so anything to help us nod off is a given. Matt’s an avid fan of his Kindle, and the dulcet tones of the Shipping Forecast or Radio 4 is always good to get me snoring… Ply Mark with a nice whisky and you’ll not hear a peep ‘til morning.
To keep new music thriving, are there any peers of yours, scene sharers, tourmates, etc. that we need to check out?
We’ve already mentioned Ajimal and Bridie Jackson and The Arbour, but they’re two brilliant examples. Trev Gibb is also a particular favourite of mine. I find his voice so powerful and full of colour. I can’t wait to hear what’s coming next for them all.
Most importantly, if you had a pet vulture who appeared to be rather cultured, what would you call it?
Maurice…
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