INTERVIEW: The Youth Play discuss origins and influences alongside new single ‘If We Just Ever Were’

After making a strong impression with their dazzling debut EP ‘Wildflowers’ last year, London-based outfit The Youth Play recently returned with their anthemic new single ‘If We Just Ever Were’.

Honing more of that blistering post-punk energy they are known for, ‘If We Just Ever Were’ sees them return with style and aplomb throughout. So we caught up with them to discuss their origins and influences over the years.

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What was the first rock song or artist that made an impact on you?

 Fin – Rock was one of the main genres that I was raised on and when I was learning drums playing along to smells like teen spirit was always my favourite .

Who are some of your biggest musical influences within the rock genre?

Harrison – Joy division and Sonic Youth are big influences of mine. The rawness and creativeness of their songwriting have always inspired me

Are there any non-rock musicians or genres that have also influenced your music?

Diego – I was raised in Mexico and growing up in a Latin American country traditional folkloric songs were very present in my country, “los angeles negros – a tu recuerdo”

What is your main inspiration when looking to write new music?

Diego – that’s a tough one, we always right the music first to our songs so the riffs or chords come from whatever emotion we are feeling at the time.  The songs we’ve all collectively been listening to always find a way to seep into our music as well.

What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have any memorable live performance experiences you’d like to share?

 Harrison – me and Diego kissed once at a gig supporting one of our favourite bands ‘Wings of Desire’ 

What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your musical journey so far?

 Finley  – Putting out music and seeing the reception that the music we release gets , playing live is always a great experience too 

How would you define success as a musician?

 Diego – midday pints before a practise, also putting out music that you’re proud of and have people listen to the songs and enjoy it.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?

Diego – as simple as it sounds: do what you like and keep on going

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Listen to The Youth Play’s new single ‘If We Just Ever Were’ below.