Name: The Autocratic
Formed: July 2015
Hometown: Coleraine
Genre: Alt rock
Line-up: Connall Ennis – Vocals/Bass, Odhran Bryson – Guitar/Backing vocals, Conor O’kane – drums/Backing Vocals
◀ Q & A ▶
▶ Tell us about your artist/band name?
Well, we were originally called something that was a bit of a mouthful, so a change was badly needed. The name was suggested by Conor, our drummer and is derived from a shared interest of history!
▶ When did you start playing music and how would you describe your sound?
Individually we’ve been playing music since our early teens, so we’ve always had a love for music but collectively we’ve been playing since Summer 2015. Our sound could best be described as a cross between alternative rock, pop and funk. Or if you’re a lover of an awful metaphor; a tiger on ketamine.
▶ What releases have you put out so far?
A couple of live recordings – titled ‘Caged’ and ‘Sell your Soul’ and our first professionally recorded single, called ‘Beluga’.
▶ Is there a particular live show that stands out amongst all the rest?
Probably the last show we played in Castlerock, where the reaction to our music was overwhelming, with a full on mosh pit being the highlight!
▶ Can you talk about a Highlight and a low point of the journey so far?
A great highlight was recording our debut single without a doubt and I guess the low point would be something menial like almost breaking our backs every time we (attempt to) lift our bass cab.
▶ If you weren’t a musician(s) how would you spend your spare time?
We’d be bored out of our minds to be honest, we’d probably just sit at home scratching ourselves.
▶ If you were to go on a world tour and you could pick any 3 acts come along, who would they be?
James Bay, Catfish and the Bottlemen and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
▶ What would be the 3 strangest things on your rider if you were able to make any demand?
A Bichon Frise, Hop House lager and boot polish.
▶ Is there a particular aim or goal which you hope to achieve through music?
We simply hope to put as much music as we can out there, play as many gigs as we can and hopefully bring some joy and some antics into people’s lives.
▶ Who has been your biggest inspiration as a musician?
The aforementioned acts as well as bands like Blur, Muse, ASIWYFA, Radiohead, Miles Kane and Oasis.
▶ Are there any other Northern Irish musicians we should check out?
Of course! Brand New Friend, The Bayonettes and Little Arcadia are a few among our Northern Irish favourites.
▶ What is next for you?
Releasing more music, playing more gigs, probably acquiring some unnecessary musical equipment and having a pint.
◀ LISTEN ▶
Facebook ▶ /The Autocratic
