Today, Scottish singer-songwriter Nina Nesbitt releases her new album Mountain Music, released on her own Apple Tree Records label, described by The Skinny as "a record that showcases her vocals more than her previous pop-oriented records ever did." We caught up with the lady herself to discuss the new album and the evolution of her signature sound, and have a test pressing of the album, signed by Nina, to give away to one lucky winner.
Having risen to fame at a young age with her disarming, candid pop, – championed by stars including Taylor Swift and Hollywood star Reese Witherspoon – Nina Nesbitt is now found in an entirely new realm. Inspired in part by the two years she spent touring the States in support of her second studio album, the critically acclaimed The Sun Will Come Up, The Seasons Will Change, these songs are permeated with gorgeous nods to US folk and Americana.
The record was produced by Peter Miles and Nesbitt, and mixed and mastered by Miles at his stunning Middle Farm Studios in south Devon. Released via her own label, Apple Tree Records (the name a playful nod to her 2012 debut EP, The Apple Tree), this marks the start of an exciting new era for Nina Nesbitt.
TM: The press for Mountain Music promises “Nina Nesbitt as fans have never heard her before.” What does that statement mean to you and how is the music on this album different from previous releases?
Nina Nesbitt: Firstly, it’s a folk album and it’s my first of that genre. Secondly, the album was recorded in a completely different way than before. I headed down to Devon to gather in a room with live musicians for three days. Peter Miles produced it with me and recorded the whole thing onto a 1970s tape machine. It’s the most authentic album I’ve made and really captures a moment.
TM: We’ve heard ‘Pages’, ‘Mansion’, ‘I’m Coming Home’ and most lately the soaring single ‘Anger’, from the record already. Is there a track from the rest of the album that you’re most excited for fans to hear today?
NN: I’m most excited for people to hear 'Parachute'. It’s probably my favourite song from Mountain Music. It’s about being an introvert and finding that one person that you can fully be yourself with. Musically it combines a piano ballad with a gigantic build towards the end - my two favourite types of songs.
TM: You’re releasing the record on your own label called Apple Tree Records - a nod to your 2012 EP release The Apple Tree - what was the significance of naming your label after your debut record?
NN: I released The Apple Tree EP independently and it kick started everything in my career so it’s always held a special place. My manager and I decided to start the record label together and The Apple Tree was also our first release. The name had a folky feel to it and it matched this record in a way.
"It’s almost as if I’m returning to my roots, years later" - Nina Nesbitt
M: Did the rolling Devon countryside and the idyllic setting of Middle Farm Studios, South Devon have an influence of the sound of the record?
NN: It is the best place! It really does feel like you’ve gone back in time to the 70s. I had the album written before going there but sonically it definitely took influence from the surroundings. Peter is a huge fan of capturing a moment and leaving room for character. It really is a way of life there, it feels cut off from the modern world - in a wonderful way. I found myself really letting go and not feeling the need to put make up on or do my hair every day. I think you can hear that in the music and how raw it is.
TM: Each vinyl of the Mountain View Beach' Edition will each have its own unique colouring as it's recycled product. How important is taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint to you as a musician?
NN: I think if there’s an eco alternative then it’s a great idea to use it! A musician’s carbon footprint can often be bigger than most with all the touring and flying around for promo, so anything you can do to improve that is important. They’ve also turned out to be my favourite vinyl!
Mountain Music is available from the Official Nina Nesbitt Store on Signed 'Mountain View Beach' Edition Vinyl, Signed ‘I'll Be The Moon' Edition [Inc double sided 12" insert print] Signed CD and Signed Cassette.
Enter our exclusive giveaway to win a test pressing of Nina Nesbitt's new album Mountain Music signed by Nina.
The winner will be chosen on Monday, October o7 2024.
N.B: If the competition entry module is inaccessible, enter the giveaway directly via the button below.
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