Q&A: Heir

Tipped for great things in 2018, Leeds-based indie-pop band Heir are truly something special. With their ability to combine powerful harmonies and infectious rhythms, they create modern pop music that is slowly grabbing the nation’s attention. I spoke to keyboardist Sam Luca in late 2017 to reminisce on the year gone by, the humble beginnings of Heir and what the band want from the year ahead.

1. What was your highlight of 2017?

That is a very tough one. Reading and Leeds Festival was wicked. It’s also been lovely to simply be able to fully realise and release music that represents the five of us. That sense of collaborative pride and achievement is not something we’ll ever take for granted. The highlight for me I think though was touring in Europe. When you are in a place that is so completely unfamiliar but you are still being met with so much warmth it gives you a rather magical feeling.

2. So, how did you get started as a band?

We all met at uni here in Leeds. We had the privilege of having a lot of musicians around us actually and as a result I think there was probably a lot of ‘musicians music’ being created. It was great to absorb and learn from the trend but I think one of the reasons why the five of us came together was because we were all equally partial to a You Make My Dreams or Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go sing-a-long.

3. What would you be doing if you were not in a band?

I don’t think there’s any doubt that music would have some sort of role in all of our lives. However we do all like to dabble in other bits and pieces. Ste does a wicked job with a lot of our visuals so he’d be working on the next Pixar movie or something. I enjoy writing. Harry, I imagine would be able to focus entirely on his women’s clothing modelling career. These sound like way better jobs don’t they, shall we quit and reconsider?

4. Why are you called Heir?

Ooooh we couldn’t possibly tell you that...

5. Who are your musical inspirations/what or who inspires you when it comes to songwriting?

We have a few favourites. HAIM have sat at the top of the pile pretty much since we first started making music together. Fleetwood Mac also offer a wicked blend in their sound that we often refer to. In terms of inspiration for songwriting, it’s probably cliche but keeping our eyes and ears open to all the everyday life stuff; that’s where songs exist for us. Finding the magic amongst the normality. I’ve always identified with writers such as Paul Simon and Foy Vance, songwriters who wear their thoughtfulness and their ponderings on their sleeves.

6. Give 3 reasons as to why your music is worth discovering

#1 - All music is worth discovering. We like to think that our music will offer itself as a reliable companion to the full spectrum of your emotions.

#2 - When it comes to most satisfying activities to take part in, dancing in the kitchen to feel-good, pop music whilst making dinner is maybe as good as it gets. Either that or the successful completion of a long distance car key throw and catch scenario with your mate, where neither of you acknowledge it as being anything other than normal procedure.

#3 - We love it.

7. What was it like growing up in your hometown in terms of music?

The five of us are actually all from different, relatively small corners of the country. I grew up in Exeter so the scene was pretty quiet. The most recognised local musician was probably the lovely lady who busked every night outside M&S. There was enough going on to get stuck into though. Thankfully lots of touring artists were happy to make the long journey down south to come and play to us! I think I can speak for all of us in saying that coming to Leeds was a wicked move. We were all ready to throw ourselves in and it’s a brilliant feeling to be part of a music scene in a city like this.

8. Where do you see yourself this time next year?

Dare I say it, it would be bloody exciting to be thinking about the first album.We’re reaching a point where the songs are beginning to feel like they are from the same family so we’ll have to see. It’s such a big moment, we wouldn’t want to rush it!

9. Describe your latest release in three words?

Turn it up.



Watch their video for latest single 'Need You The Most' here: