Two-piece Moriaty are celebrating the release of their new album The Die Is Cast, a powerful blend of rock ‘n’ roll, melodic blues and even a hint of hip-hop. We caught up with the band’s baritone guitarist/vocalist Jordan West to find out more about Moriaty, including his first musical memory, the band’s influences and their post-release plans.
Firstly, tell us a bit about yourself and your band.
The band consists of myself Jordan West (baritone guitar/vocals) and Matthew Partridge (drums/vocals). We are a two-piece, heavy indie/ bluesy/ beefy outfit, with a load of cool tunes. Matthew is a party animal and I run a business (and have a family) on the side! Ha!
How did the band form and how long have you been together?
We used to be in separate bands that toured together. As those bands were coming to an end we went to T In The Park one year and just decided to get together and have some fun. That fun turned into some songs, which turned into a show or two, which turned into some recording and Matthew hasn’t been able to get rid of me since! That was 10 years ago this year!
Can you remember the first time you realised you wanted to make music?
For me it was the moment I first saw Oasis’ Shakermaker video in a local barber shop when I was about 10. It was the moment music started lighting my senses. I remember it clear as day.
Who and what are the band’s main influences?
It started as a blues thing. Sure, The White Stripes and The Black Keys had a major influence, but it was the old guys like Son House and Blind Willie Johnson/Blind Willie McTell. As we developed we realised that heavy riffs could carry songs when you are in the two-piece box – so RATM became a central influence. This was combined with listening to a lot of Dre, Snoop and Pantera. Since then, we’ve allowed ourselves to make our little box as wide as possible. The Pharcyde, The Cinematic Orchestra, Radiohead and Oasis are all in there somewhere.
What do you aim to achieve as a band?
The goal from the start was always just to have fun. I don’t think we’ve ever lost sight of that. We’ve made two beautiful records and those, along with all the shows and everything we do from here on out is just a bonus. As long as I’m having fun with my mate, it’ll always be worth it.
For those who are yet to see you live, what can they expect from a Moriaty show?
Ferocious energy, killer riffs and phat break beats! It’s all about losing ourselves in the music and bringing the audience with us.
What’s next for Moriaty?
More of these… haha (Sorry we listen to a lot of Ricky Gervais podcasts)! We’re really proud to have this record out and we will be enjoying getting it out there. There are a few shows on the horizon, but it’s a tough time for the industry. We are hoping to get back out there if this virus goes away. In the meantime, we will do what we do best. Get in the rehearsal room, write and record the best songs we can, and have the best time doing it!
Moriaty’s new album The Die Is Cast is out now via Easy Action Records, available to stream or purchase HERE.
Tags :
Moriaty
