DUST – Sky Is Falling
dust are a Newcastle based five-piece who are making music that feels both volatile and carefully carved, a collision of post-rock-post-punk, jazz-leaning experimentation and emotional grit. It’s the kind of genre defying sound that catches you off guard: raw, wiry, and earnest (without being cringe). In fact, it literally caught me off guard when I saw them open for Militaire Gun last year, especially when I realised I knew their song Joy (Guilt) already, so well I could sing along. Since then, the boys have released their debut album, Sky is Falling and are showing no sign of slowing down.
In fact, they’re about to kick off a bunch of shows in Australia before heading to the UK, Europe and the Americas, the boys are playing well beyond the scope of their early home town cult following, stepping into a new chapter with a confidence that feels well-earned.
What or which other artists inspire you? Do you have any non- artistic inspirations?
It's pretty tricky to narrow down all the music that inspires, plus music that we all gel with as a band. We all share a big love for electronic music, classic artists like Aphex Twin, Autechre, Boards of Canada and Grouper. Also new artists like James K, Ana Roxanne and Vegyn. We’ve always tried to imitate their use of big thick sounds using pads in interludes and trying to turn the guitars into pads, but also keeping that rock element.
We are also really inspired by film. I am a big Wong Kar Wai lover and connect a lot with how his movies make you feel with imagery. I would look at that one scene at the end of Fallen Angels on the motorbike and listen to music. It’s pure bliss.
Do you think that growing up in Newcastle influences the viewpoint of the band?
Absolutely, I believe it’s kept us quite grounded and appreciating what we have, being able to tour around the world is amazing but there is something special about coming home after those trips and being by the beach with your close friends. It is really comforting and keeps us focused. Myself, Adam and Liam are from a town 30 minutes from Newcastle called Maitland and that's even more remote, a lot of people get stuck there.
What advice would you have for a band that is where y'all were at 12 months ago?
Enjoy every moment, try not to be negative, spend and save your money wisely & take it seriously, but don’t take yourself too seriously.
What has been the biggest pinch-me moment for dust so far?
Getting to play with Interpol and Iceage at the Alexander Palace in London, when we started the band, Iceage were a huge influence and are still to this today. Playing that show was pretty ridiculous.
Who is the most responsible member of the band?
Liam, we would be fucked without Liam.
Where are you finding joy right now?
Eating laksa and watching movies, I’ve been doing like 4 a week. It's mad.
Who would you book for your dream festival line-up?
I’m going to go with people alive currently: Solange, My Bloody Valentine, Grouper, Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark, John Maus ,Yo La Tengo, Sky Ferreira, Twine, Yung Lean, A.R Kane, Metro Station, Mariah Carey, Cody Simpson and Sheppard.
I believe this festival would go off.
What is the last thing you Googled?
Anna Kendrick Movies – me and my friends were talking about her yesterday. She used to annoy me but after seeing her interviews with Blake Lively, I like her.
What is your favourite compliment you've ever received?
People always say I look like Sideshow Bob because of my hair which gives me the shits a bit. I brought this up to a friend recently and he said “Nah man, you're more Disco Stu” and that really touched me.
What is the hardest (or worst) thing about being in a band? And, what is the best thing?
As corny as it sounds, sometimes it feels like you are living two different lives. Everyone in my life is super supportive of it but sometimes it's hard to convince people or get them to take it seriously. As much as I love touring I find it really difficult as my immune system is really weak and I get sick easily. I've just started seeing a naturopath so hopefully things will be up from here.
The best thing about it is everything which is a horrible answer, but you don’t appreciate it enough until you're not doing it and looking back at the best times of meeting people, fun times with your friends, the feeling of writing something you really feel passionate about and the opportunities and experiences you get to have.
Words by Isabelle Webster
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