London four-piece Night Flight recently released a new EP entitled Songs From Echo Zoo alongside news of a forthcoming UK tour.
Night Flight consist of Sam Holmes (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Oliver Halverson (bass, synths, BVs), Harry Phillips (lead guitar, BVs), and Dan Webb (drums), all of which contribute to the writing process. The EP came together during the first lockdown, with everyone exchanging ideas remotely.
“We’ve got to the point where it feels like a collective,” says Sam, who cemented Night Flight’s current line-up three years ago. “We’ve always been a songwriting band and that hasn’t changed.”
Here, Sam discusses his music inspirations with Andy Howells.
What was the first song that made an impact on you?
I was a huge Jeff Buckley fan when I was growing up and I used to obsess over Lover, You Should Have Come Over. I constantly tried to mimic him around the house…to what effect I’m not sure.
What was the first single /download you bought?
I can’t be certain, but I’m pretty sure it was Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls when I was about 12. Still a banger.
What was the first album you owned?
First album I owned was Graceland by Paul Simon. My Dad used to play it on repeat in the car when we went on family holidays so every note of it is etched into my mind.
What’s your constant go to track?
Got to be God Only Knows by the Beach Boys.
What’s your constant go to album?
I’d say either Solid Air by John Martyn or Rumours by Fleetwood Mac.
Who’s your latest music discovery?
I absolutely love Madison Cunningham, she’s this heady mix of Joni Mitchell, Jeff Buckley and Norah Jones. A brilliant guitarist too!
What’s your own track that best defines you as an artist?
A hard one but in terms of songwriting I would say either Death Rattle or David. They’re both highly emotive songs and I’m really happy with how they flow lyrically and melodically to create an evocative journey. Sonically I think our latest EP is our best work to date.
Night Flight UK Tour – October 2021
- Wed 6 Brighton, Green Door Store
- Thu 7 London, Colours Hoxton
- Fri 8 Bristol, Rough Trade Bristol
- Sat 9 Cardiff, Clwb Ifor Bach
- Mon 11 Manchester, YES Basement
- Tue 12 Sheffield, Record Junkee
- Wed 13 Glasgow, Broadcast
- Thu 14 Newcastle, Think Tank? Underground
- For ticket details visit Night Flight’s official website