The rising star on the songs that have shaped her.
Fresh off of releasing her debut EP “Slow Down”, Lots Holloway is showing no signs of following the advice of her own title. A talented songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Holloway’s delicate take on alt-pop and magnetic charm has manifested into a stunning introductory record. With an off-kilter indie tint to her melodic vocals, the four tracks are completely compelling and contain that special quality that sweeps you away into another world.
A true star in the making, we got her to put us together a playlist of the songs that have shaped her journey so far. Clearly proof that it must have been an expertly soundtracked ride, check out her picks now.
MGMT – “Time To Pretend”
About a year ago, I’d realised that, if I tried hard enough, I was able to produce most of my records myself. I’d read an article somewhere about how MGMT formed, and how they created most of their music just fiddling around with synths. I’d never really been a fan of synths, but I spent a whole summer listening to Oracular Spectacular and my ears were changed forever.
Foster The People – “Pumped Up Kicks”
I remember listening to this song a lot around the time of writing the EP. I like its happy feel, despite its sinister nature. “Love Me, Though I’m Not Right” has that same appeal. It sounds pretty jolly, but it’s about doing something very wrong.
The Beatles – “Eleanor Rigby”
I love live instruments. I try and keep most of the instrumentation on my tracks real – live drums, live bass, but especially live strings. They’re such an emotive instrument.
Christine and the Queens – “Science Fiction”
When I first heard this song I was so impressed by its ability to use strange sound loops as its main percussion feature. I experimented a lot with the idea of using and creating sounds – I even started to record myself banging pots and pans and chopping food in my kitchen. David Bowie and Tony Visconti used to do the same, if it’s good enough for them…
Sister Sledge – “Lost In Music”
If you’ve heard the EP, you’ll know which track Sister Sledge gave some inspiration too. I write alternative music and I like that because it has no definition and therefore no limits – I really wanted to bring some elements of funkiness to “Berry Bones”. So I did.
ABBA – “Dancing Queen”
I’ve never not been inspired by ABBA. I think they’re fantastic, feel good, clever music. Sonic genius.
Radiohead – “Bullet Proof… I Wish I Was”
I have “The Bends” on vinyl and I would spend hours spinning it. I really like the intensity of this song – it’s so up close, personal and honest. The honesty in this track inspired me to open up… then I wrote “Between You and Me”.
Kate Bush – “Wow”
I think Kate’s art is wonderful. She’s so experimental, without any fear. I always feel like I’m in another world when I’m listening to her music. So now whenever I make music unless it takes me to another world, it’s not good enough. When I feel like I’ve been moved or transported, I know it’s ready.
