INTERVIEW: We get to know emerging Kiwi talent VÏKÆ
New Zealand’s always been a country that punches above its weight when it comes to world class femxle talent. Artists like Kimbra, Lorde, Gin Wigmore, Ladyhawke, Brooke Fraser, Benee and Aldous Harding have taken the world by storm in the last 10 years; and there’s no shortage of up-and-comers ready to follow in their footsteps.
In a three-part series, Women in Pop gets to know emerging Kiwi artists and today the spotlight is on VÏKÆ, a quirky pop artist who released her debut EP Finelines in September
Make us a pitch about yourself in 50 words or less…
Industrial pop artist hailing from NZ but born in Ukraine uses her voice for the voiceless to shine light on important topics like mental health and addiction through spicy basslines and catchy hooks.
What was the last EP/album you listened to in its entirety?
Folklore by Taylor Swift. For those that know me know my really crazy obsession with T-Swiz. She is one of the most multifaceted and talented artists in the industry, holds more world records than any artist and has so many awards I've lost count (40+ including Artist of the Decade). Folklore is an absolute masterpiece, it's honestly so 'inoffensive' you can listen to it in any setting - her songwriting (if possible) has improved and turned into something that reminds me of the 70s - Cat Stevens, Don Mclean, Carly Simons... those sorts of people.
What was the first concert you ever went to?
U2 and Kanye West back at Mt Smart in like I think 2006?
What was the last concert you attended?
Delaney Davidson at the Wine Cellar a couple of months ago.
Tell us about your new EP, Finelines
My new EP is centred around a cathartic process addressing things like mental health (I suffer from bipolar), physical limitations (I have two autoimmune chronic diseases) and toxic friendships amongst friend groups. I wanted to show what it is like from the mind of someone suffering having to deal with all these things. Each song features traditional Ukrainian instruments and has been carefully sound engineered to create a unique sound. Lyrics and melodies are a huge focus for me and I wanted to create songs that addressed these pretty heavy subjects but in a manner that was catchy and fresh.
Is there a recommended best time to listen?
I would say driving in your car and/or blasting in your headphones thinking about crappy friends.
You made this record with Abigail Knudsen... do you find that there is a difference working in the studio with a female producer as opposed to a guy, and If so can you tell us more...
YES. I mean firstly there's no problems when you've got your period or whatever and have cramps - you can be open and honest about that stuff. With a male producer... hmm not so much. Working with a woman is a breeze - there's this unspoken sisterhood that's created just by even having a woman to woman connection in the industry (for starters). I've had so many weird experiences with male producers (to clarify not all of them, as I know so many sweet, genuine and honest men that I have worked with) but my bad experiences unfortunately outweigh the good. I've been told that I would never make it if I wasn't prepared to give up my body or if I wasn't willing to partake in weird sexual favours. I wish I was joking but I'm not. It's made me very hard to trust male producers and I would only work with someone if someone in the industry that I trust has made a recommendation.
Who are your biggest musical influences?
Taylor Swift (no surprises there), Amy Lee from Evanescence, Don McLean, The Rolling Stones, Ella Fitzgerald and 50 Cent.
Best thing about the NZ music scene right now?
We are making the most of all our delicious talent we have right here in NZ
Hot tip on other Kiwi up-and-comers to look out for?
PRINS, Kiera Wallace, Molly Devine and Valkyrie.
What’s your goal for the next 12 months?
More music! 1 x big body of music (like an LP or album). More music videos! Merch and artwork. Nationwide tour 2.0. *hopefully* some bookings for festival season in 2021/2022.
Finelines is out now. You can download on iTunes and stream on Apple Music and Spotify.
To keep up with all things VÏKÆ you can follow her on Instagram and Facebook.
