We caught up with North London sister act Jagaara, to talk music memories and vinyl love ahead of their summer on the road.

Describing themselves as a “magic crowd”, Jagaara’s music effortlessly blends together the genres of indie, electro and folk rock. Once dubbed the “British Haim”, the sisters first started recording early demos in a bedroom studio. It was after developing and honing their unique sound that the band recorded their debut EP “Faultline” –  released late 2014. Having just released their second single “In The Dark” – think soaring vocals that conjure nostalgia of hazy summer afternoons – we caught up with Jagaara to talk summer festival slots and family affairs, before they hit the road.

When did you first pick up your instruments?

We started on piano when we were about 5, and then we all started other instruments. We picked up guitars in our teens.

Is three the magic number or a crowd?

It’s a magic crowd.

Are your parent’s musical too? Are you like the trendy Von Trapp family?

That’s what we strive for every day! Our parents never worked in music, but they sing and have great musical taste.

What did you listen to growing up?

So many different types of music – soul, classical, rock, blues, pop… which is why we prefer not to limit ourselves to one genre when we write or get into the studio. Before our 20s, a lot of the music we loved was from before our time, but now we listen to a mix of older and newer music. Growing up we loved Destiny’s Child, Jeff Buckley, Otis Redding, Radiohead, Tool, Led Zeppelin and Blondie.

Who are your inspirations and influences?

Jeff Buckley, Alabama Shakes, Beyonce, Neil Young, Blondie. Alice Munro, JG Ballard. Our friends.

If you could each listen to one song on repeat for the rest of your lives, what would it be?

Jane – “The Rain Song”, Led Zeppelin

Cat – “That’s How Strong My Love Is”, Otis Redding

Ruth – “Running up that Hill”, Kate Bush

What do you think is important about bringing vinyl back?

It’s a reminder of how people used to treasure music. Putting on a record was meaningful. Streaming is a great thing, but new music has become more disposable as a result.

Do you have a favourite musical memory?

Watching Tame Impala at Latitude last year. We’d just played so we were totally buzzing and it was about 30 degrees!

With a huge amount of live gigs coming up this summer, do you prefer the stage or the studio?

Tough question. At the moment it’s the stage as we’re about to head to Amsterdam for the first time for London Calling festival. We have loads of summer festivals coming up and we can’t wait to get out there!

Do you have any guilty pleasures?

Cheesy 80s films. If you haven’t seen ‘Satisfaction’ (about an all-girl rock band trying to make it) you’re missing out!

What is the end game – where do you want to be in a years time?

In a year’s time we want to be the best musicians we can be, working with amazing people and playing on bigger stages. We want as many people as possible to hear our music and get excited about it!

See Jagaara at Standon Calling festival this summer.

Words: Sarah Barnes.