County Durham’s own Scott Michael Cavagan has been gaining a reputation for his unique blend of visceral and emotive rock with huge chorus’ and pop sensibilities. His songwriting talents are clear to hear during his debut EP Neon Lights.
Cavagan is currently working on his debut album and he was kind enough to chat with us about it.
Indie Band Guru: Who or what inspired you to take the journey of becoming a musician?
Scott Michael Cavagan: I’ve always been massively into music from a very early age thanks to my parents who always played music around the house. The first band I really fell in love with was The Beatles. Their music inspired me to want to make music or certainly want to become a singer. Then as Britpop was breaking in the mid-nineties Oasis definitely pushed me into really wanting to start a band.
How would you describe your sound for new fans out there and which musicians have influenced what you create?
My music really is a mixture of what I listen to. So it’s unashamedly pop, there are elements of indie rock and there are some more delicate moments. Is all about the melody for me. Sometimes bands have a big fear of selling out. I’ve always wanted to hear my songs on the radio and to be heard by as many people as possible. The Manic Street Preachers are the biggest influence, discovering them was life changing at 17 years old.
Can you tell us a little about the music you have released so far and which tracks are the most special to you and why?
I released an EP back in 2015 but if I am honest I rushed the release. I’m still really proud of it though and those songs will be reappearing again soon. I do have a special place in my heart for a song called “Weapon Of Choice” because writing that song really instigated the whole solo project. That made me think I could make music on my own.
Looking to the future, we hear you have a new album in the works. Can you tell us about it?
I do indeed. 21st Century Love is my debut album and it’s a collection of songs that are really important to me. I have set up a Kickstarter campaign which is a way for people to pre-order the album. All funds from the preorders will go directly into completing the mixing and mastering of the recording. The Kickstarter is live for 30 days so I am hoping it’ll be a success.
There is a rumour that you have some special guests appearances on the album, could you share any information about this?
I have to say it’s been really exciting to work with some amazing musicians for this project. Some of whom are friends and some who I’ve reached out to.The title track features Baz Warne from The Stranglers, James Gregory from The Ordinary Boys, John Waugh who plays with The 1975, Fiona Brice who has worked with everyone from Placebo to Kayne West, and there is also Jeff Dunn who is hugely respected in the metal works influencing bands such as Metallica and Machine Head.
From the songs that will appear on the new album, is there one in particular that you are excited for your fans to hear?
Honestly, I’m excited for people to hear the whole album and hearing their view of which songs they like. That’s still the thrill for me.
Finally, Once your campaign hits the target, what are your next goals for your music?
Well hopefully the campaign is successful as it is only active for 30 days. But I am really looking forward to releasing it and doing some great gigs to support its release. Anything after that is a bonus. It’s just great to be making music again.
‘Sleeping with the Enemy’ shows what Scott Michael Cavagan can offer
Even though Scott Michael Cavagan feels that Neon Lights was slightly rushed, it is still a must-hear collection of songs. It has this ’90s indie rock sound with a slight ’80s vibe that grabs your attention. If that doesn’t do it for you, then the infectious hooks and an impressive lyrical depth will. As well as his personal favourite “Weapon of Choice,” “Sleeping with the Enemy” is another great introduction to what he has to offer.
21st Century Love is shaping up to be something special.
