A Chat with The Zinvandels (16.08.22)
With blazing guitars, pounding drums and powerful vocals, Welsh rockers The Zinvandels share their intoxicating indie-rock with the world. We speak with singer and guitarist Tom about their new single ‘Blackholes’, what music means to him, future plans and his favourite item of clothing.
OSR: What drew you to music and how did The Zinvandels come together?
Tom: Grant and myself have always knocked around together in various bands. I think this was the band that we realised we wanted to be in – we weren’t copying anything or chasing a style.
OSR: What does music mean to you?
Tom: It’s hard to think of a day without music, so I’ll go full-on vomit and cliche and say “everything”.
OSR: What can you tell us about your single ‘Blackholes’? Is there a backstory, perhaps?
Tom: It started out as a musical reaction to what we did before. The keywords spoken were around raw, lively and energy. It’s kind of an anti-motivation song if that’s a thing. You can meet bad times head-on in a confrontational manner instead of pitying yourself.
OSR: If you could change one thing about ‘Blackholes’, what would it be and why?
Tom: From a band that dwells and regrets most recordings, the essence of ‘Blackholes’ was of the most importance. Not any individual parts. We made a pact to include any wrong notes and things you’d naturally correct.
OSR: Does ‘Blackholes’ have a special meaning for you?
Tom: It’s my favourite song of ours. I think it took a while to get here but we’re happy to be here.
OSR: Describe The Zinvandels in one sentence.
Tom: We are NOT the hangmen.
OSR: What is the most challenging thing about being in a band?
Tom: Writing original music in an unsigned band for years is an achievement. You certainly don’t do it for the money and often it’s quite the opposite. You keep on shit kicking and the only reason is because you love it.
OSR: What is your favourite piece of clothing that you own?
Tom: A handmade penguin pullover.
OSR: What is the best compliment you have ever received?
Tom: Bryn Law (whilst presenting on Soccer Saturday) dropped a lyric of ours in his overview of a game (which he promised). Maybe the smallest Easter egg ever!
OSR: Do you have future plans as The Zinvandels?
Tom: Yes! We’re just warming the engines to play live and get a-going. We have recordings in the back pocket and will look to do something more this year!
OSR: What message do you have for our readers?
Tom: Thank you for taking the time y’all. We look forward to getting busy and playing through the remainder of the year!
Many thanks to Tom from The Zinvandels for speaking with us. For more from The Zinvandels check out their Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
