MUSICA: Your music carries both British and American influences. How do Northern England and North Carolina each find their way into your songwriting?
STEVE ROBINSON: I lived in England up until my early twenties, so at this point, I’ve lived in the US considerably longer than I did in the UK, but since my formative years were spent over there, I do think the musical imprint of the music of my youth has a stronger influence on my songwriting.
I’m not sure that North Carolina itself has found its way into my songwriting. I mean, I’m quite fond of some of the rootsy Appalachian music of this region, especially in a live context, but aside from the odd mandolin part on a couple of my songs, I don’t think I’ve really absorbed the whole Americana vibe as an obvious influence. I think I’d feel like an imposter if I tried to consciously incorporate some of the more obvious lyrical themes and instrumentation common to the genre, especially since what remains of my Lincolnshire accent still pokes through in my vocals (laughs).
MUSICA: You have worked as a solo artist, band member and collaborator. Which creative setting brings out a different side of you?
STEVE ROBINSON: Well, they’re different disciplines, really. As a solo artist, there’s total freedom to do what you want to do, but there’s also no one else there to offer constructive criticism, and the blame is all your own if a song falls flat. As a band member or collaborator, you have that obligation to accommodate other people’s ideas, but are rewarded with the joy of interacting with other musicians. I don’t approach them any differently from each other, though; regardless of the creative setting, you still have to come to the table armed with a decent song.
MUSICA: What new music, performances or projects should listeners look out for next from Steve Robinson?
STEVE ROBINSON: Well, my most recent release is “Temporary Sun”, the third joint album with my friend and co-producer, Ed Woltil, which just came out this July. I’m quite proud of this one, truth be told. I’ve also been contributing some vocals to Ed Woltil’s upcoming solo project, and I’ve already started work on my next solo record. If the songs start coming, you’ve hot to grab ‘em while you can, right? In between all that, I’ll also be playing some of the live music venues here in WNC. No fiddles or mandolins, I’m afraid (laughs).
