Photography // Kate Langton
Words by Mariana V. Honorato @marianavhonorato
Salt Ashes is a talented Brighton-based singer who has just released her latest single “Counting Crosses”, which also names her new EP. The combination between her dance/electronic influences with dark atmospheres and introspective lyrics results in a unique synth-pop that definitely solidifies her as an ‘Artist to Watch’.
Read our interview to discover more about her inspirations, creativity flow and dreams.
How did you start your relationship with music?
I bought music a rose, got down on one knee, and said; “will you go out with me?”. She said yes straight away. Since then, we’ve had our rocky moments like any relationship, but we’ve made a commitment to each other and so live for the good times.
I think no matter what gender; whether you’re white, pink, blue, a unicorn or a dolphin, if you have a platform or a voice, within any industry, then you have an opportunity to inspire and set an example for those following your journey.
Female artists are nowadays related to many topics other than music: they are seen as examples of girl empowerment, respect and overcoming. How do you see yourself in the middle of this scenario? Do you feel this as a responsibility?
I think no matter what gender; whether you’re white, pink, blue, a unicorn or a dolphin, if you have a platform or a voice, within any industry, then you have an opportunity to inspire and set an example for those following your journey. I am female and continue to support equality and empowerment but not only for women but every human being. I have a diverse fan base, not just female, so I hope every single one of them can get something positive and strengthening from my music.
Listen to Salt Ashes’ new single “Counting Crosses” while reading the interview:
Tell us about your latest single “Counting Crosses”. What’s the story behind it?
‘Counting Crosses’ embodies that moment when you discover things aren’t quite working out in the way you’d hoped with a lover and you’ve come to realise that, in fact, you’re not good for them.
I wrote this song at 3am with my friend Roseanne, after a heavy night out. We laid down a messy demo in my bedroom with makeup running down our faces, tequila flowing in and out of our glasses, and I recorded the quietest vocal ever as to not wake up my housemates. The demo had this raw charm to it so it was the first track I played to Louis Souyave (EP Producer) when I met him to see if he wanted to work with me.
Speaking about creative process: how does your creativity flow?
More times than not I’ll start with some chords on a synth or on my guitar and start singing melodies over it. Sometimes lyrics naturally just come out and then I’ll figure out what the hell I’m singing about or where that’s coming from.
What are the biggest examples and models in the music scene you feel inspired by?
I’m loving everything that Dave is doing right now, also Stormzy. Anyone who is using their platform to really speak their truth and really issues that are happening around us. Sevdaliza is someone I’ve been following closely the last year. Authenticity and honesty is what I’m attracted to and admire.
What are your biggest ambitions? Any short-term plan you can share with us?
I really want to do a huge headline tour. Dreams do come true right?
