A Chat With: Lola Marsh
Israeli duo Gil Landau and Yael Shoshana Cohen of Lola Marsh have just released their debut album Remember Roses on June 9th, and they'll soon be touring in America, bringing the new songs to life on the stage. The album contains a wide range of layered, dreamy indie tunes combining Cohen's lush vocals with retro vibes and addicting melodies. Prior to their show in Chicago on June 29th, we chatted with the pair about the music scene in Tel Aviv, their upcoming tour, their party playlists and more. Get to know them now in our chat with Lola Marsh.
Photo Courtesy of Lola Marsh
ANCHR Magazine: Your debut album is out now! What can you tell us about the writing and recording process behind it?
Lola Marsh: Well it was a long journey. The process of recording the album, for us, brought about so many mixed feelings. It was exciting, frustrating, emotional, and stressful... and we learned so much along the way. Most of the songs were written a few years ago when we just met each other. Some on the road, and some of them were written actually during the recordings, and the last minute we decided to add them to the album.
AM: Where did you pull inspiration from for the album? Are you mostly inspired by other musical influences, or do you look to other art forms too?
LM: We get inspired by artists such as Elvis Presley, Edith Piaf, the moody blues, Sufjan Stevens, Bon Iver, Pink Floyd and many more. We love soundtracks from old and new movies, such as For a Few Dollars More, Star Track, Amelie, and all the Wes Anderson movies.
Also places, people, instruments, and new experiences are inspirations.
AM: Which of the new songs are you most excited to play live, and have you worked out any new arrangements for the upcoming tour?
LM: A few months ago we added a new keyboard player to the band, and we made a few changes in the arrangements, so actually almost every song has a new part/sound/vibe, we're very happy about it! Also we'll play some new songs that are in the album that have never been played before.
AM: Are there any cities on this tour that you’re most excited to play in?
LM: This tour is kinda intense! Every day we're performing in a different city in Europe and The States! We're looking forward to all of our shows! It will be our second time in the US, so we are super excited about that!
AM: What can you tell us about the music scene in Tel Aviv? Any bands that we all need to check out?
LM: The music scene in Tel Aviv is very broad. You have everything! Folk, electronic, hip hop, pop, rock...all combine east and west colors and vibes. We really love an Israeli singer-songwriter named Evyatar Banai, his songs are deep, beautiful, and edgy. Also you should check out Israeli bands like Less Acrobats, Tzlil Danin, and Daniela Spector.
AM: Since you two met at a party, what are some tunes that are a must-have for your party playlist?
LM: Tunes that are a must-have for our party playlist..hmm
- Tame impala: "Let It Happen"
- Electric Guests: "Troubleman"
- Kanye West: "No Church in the Wild"
- Temples: "Move With The Seasons"
- Chance The Rapper/ Francis and the Lights: "May I Have This Dance"
AM: How do you stay entertained on the road? Any new books, podcasts, or shows that you’re into?
LM: Sometimes Gil likes to make new tracks on his laptop. Yaeli likes to document funny moments on the road and sometimes writes a journal. We read books, listen to music, play cards, and watch movies.
AM: What else are you looking forward to this year?
LM: We're looking forward to our new album Remember Roses! It took us some time to create it and we're thrilled that our fans can finally hold it in their hands