Shipwrecker: The Songs That Influenced Us
Rapidly rising rockers SHIPWRECKER are sailing ahead with their absorbing debut album, Different Beast, out this Friday. We exclusively caught up with guitarist Jo Barnes to find out his top five most influential tracks:
The Raconteurs: Steady as She Goes
Right from the moment Shipwrecker was conceived, I think this song represents the core of what we imagined the band might sound like. A real "live band" feel. A pop core with a vintage rock feel. Everything about this track is great - The riff, the blazing chorus, the dynamics. We love it!
Foo Fighters: Everlong
Early Foo Fighters had a massive impact on us, and this song is a great example of how they keep power and rhythm all the way through the song, but still manage to be catchy and melodic. The way the drums propel each section is a big influence on our songwriting. That breakdown is so cool, and I love the secret "over the phone" female backing harmonies.
Free: Fire and Water
There should be more classic rock on this list, as it's a huge influence on us. I've picked free, as it really influenced our style - Drums and bass drive the song, and the guitars should leave space for an interesting vocal line. The musicianship shines through, and they convey so much passion with such a simple set up.
Black Diamond Heavies: Oh, Sinnerman
A cover, but this one is on the list because this is the song that led to me getting obsessed with adding vintage keyboards to our sound. We never tried any in rehearsals or pre-production, but once we overdubbed them in the studio, we knew they were the icing on the cake, sonically. We play live with a keyboard player now, as the songs aren't the same without them!
Delta Saints: Butte La Rose
The least known song on this list, I expect. I listened to this over and over again in the run up to recording the album. It's very Pink Floyd. When you focus so much on tight songwriting, you need to remember that sometimes the best arrangements feel unhurried and open. This had a massive impact on how we approached a song like "Holy Ground".”
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