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Artist Interviews
Q&A: Kisses
By CMU Editorial | Published on Thursday 14 October 2010
LA duo Kisses, aka Jesse Kivel and Zinzi Edmundson, make disco-pop. Although where many acts with the ‘disco’ stamp have just a general appreciation for four-to-the-floor beats, this pair have a genuine love for the genre, and in particular for that pioneer of the 70s French disco scene, Alec R Constandinos, and his Love And Kisses project, who they seem to idolise.
The pair released their debut album, ‘The Heart Of The Nightlife’, this week through This Is Music. Our reviewer referred to is as “a master class in modern pop”, and he would not lie. Tonight they kick of a brief UK tour with the first of two shows at In The City.
To prepare you for such excitement, we caught up with Jesse Kivel to ask the Same Six Questions.
Q1 How did you start out making music?
I have been making music since I was a little kid. I first played the flute in elementary school as well as the piano. Then I played the saxophone for seven years before learning guitar.
Q2 What inspired your latest album?
Many things. Certain types of music from the 70s and 80s, as well as a desire to make a record with a continuous sound and feel. Love was also an inspiration.
Q3 What process do you go through in creating a track?
Often times I start by strumming some chords and singing stream of consciousness lyrics over the top of them. Once I find a melodic pattern I like I will add proper lyrics to match the rhythm.
Q4 Which artists influence your work?
Arthur Russell, Love And Kisses, Cerrone, Giorgio Moroder, The Talking Heads, Will Powers… a lot of different artists.
Q5 What would you say to someone experiencing your music for the first time?
I would say, I hope you have fun!
Q6 What are your ambitions for your latest album, and for the future?
To simply have many different people enjoy the music and to get to travel the world spreading the music and dancing with people.
MORE>> www.blowkisses.info
