Interview: Louise Distras talks upcoming single

Louise Distras

British firebrand singer-songwriter Louise Distras will release her brand new single Aileen on the 30th of September 2016. The song was be premiered on Karrang! Radio this evening and is set to be a real solid release from her career to date. The song will be Distras’ first new music since the release of her critically acclaimed 2013 debut album Dreams from the Factory Floor. Louise recently played at Blackpool’s Rebellion Festival and you can watch a behind the scenes video of that below.

We managed to catch up with Louise about her new single, new music, her band and more!

How proud are you to release ‘Aileen’?

100%!

Does the song mean a lot to you?

Of course, all my songs mean a lot to me and hold a special place in my heart. If it wasn’t the case then there probably wouldn’t be much point in writing them.

It’s been a while since you’ve released something, would you say this is almost a relief that you’ve managed to get something out?

No, I’m actually a bit nervous but mostly just really excited for the world to hear it.

‘Aileen’ was written in late 2014, but I’ve been on the road constantly since I released my first record in 2013. So the reality is that I just never had the opportunity to go into the studio to record any new songs until recently. Alongside the new single, I’m also releasing a film on 30 September. It’s called ‘Real Outlaw – A Commentary on Rape Culture and the Riot Grrrl Movement’ and explores the lyrical content behind the new single, aswell as how we can change the world through art. The film is available for free via scanning the QR code on the back of the CD single and tour posters across the UK and EU.

How much do your fans mean to you?

In the words of Joe Strummer, “…without people you’re nothing!”

Will there be an EP or full length album released this year?

No. The second album is pretty much written but hasn’t been recorded yet. All being well, I’m hoping to go into the studio early next year. I can’t say too much about what it sounds like, but one thing I can say is that it’s not an acoustic record.

If you could work with any artist in the world, who would it be and why?

There’s a few on my bucket list. Jeff Lynne from ELO, Michael Stipe from REM, Corey Taylor from Slipknot/Stone Sour, Eddie Vedder from Pearl Jam…for no other reason than they’re all just really fucking good at writing songs.

You’ve got a lot of tour dates coming up, which one are you most looking forward to?

All of them! I just love to play.

How much does your band mean to you that tour with you?

They’re awesome, very talented musicians and a lot of fun to be around! I’m looking forward to hitting the road with them around the UK and EU on the Aileen tour this fall. See you in October!