Start Listening To: Eva May

Exploring the melodic journey of a Bristol-Based Folk artist.

In this exclusive Q&A, we sit down with Eva May, a captivating solo artist from Bristol whose music is characterised by its open, honest, and sentimental nature. From her nostalgic debut single "Where Does The Time Go" to her experiences growing up in choirs and performing live, Eva shares her inspirations, artistic processes, and the influence of her vibrant hometown on her musical journey. Join us as we delve into the heart and soul of Eva May's evocative soundscapes and look ahead to what the future holds for this talented musician.

For those unfamiliar with your music, can you tell us who you are, where you’re from and about the music you make?

I’m a solo artist from Bristol and I like to think of my music as being open, honest and sentimental.

Your debut single, "Where Does The Time Go," has been described as a nostalgic slice of 70s AM radio folk rock. What inspired the sound and theme of this song?

I’m not sure if there was something specific, but I’ve always been inspired by Kate Bush’s piano playing, and I think I was listening to quite a lot of Virginia Astley’s music at the time. 

You mentioned stepping back into music after a hiatus. How did this break influence your approach to writing and performing "Where Does The Time Go"?

I needed time to figure out what music I wanted to make, so it was very valuable. When I started playing piano again, it felt a bit daunting but also thrilling and I think the song embodies those feelings.

The song reflects on nostalgia and the passage of time. Could you share more about the personal experiences or reflections that inspired its lyrics?

I had been looking at old family photos and thinking about how we carry our younger selves as we grow older. At the time I was feeling stuck about what I wanted to do in life, something a lot of people can relate to.

Growing up singing in choirs has clearly influenced your vocal style. How do you incorporate those early influences into your current music, especially in terms of lush vocal arrangements and harmonies?

Singing in choirs as a child helped me practise my vocal tone and style. I listen to a lot of choral music and have always been drawn to harmonies so it feels important to me.

Bristol has a vibrant music scene. How has the city and its artistic community shaped your musical journey and style?

It’s helped me gain confidence and feel supported to make the music I want to make as the scene here is very welcoming. I’ve got friends making different styles of music, from experimental, electronic and folk, so I feel very inspired to be here. 

Your live performances have included notable events like Ritual Union and supporting artists like Mary Lattimore and Shannon Lay. How do you prepare for live shows, and what do you enjoy most about performing live?

I like to wear an outfit that makes me happy and try to drink lots of water! Performing live can help motivate me to write new music so that I can perform new songs.

Signing with Full Time Hobby marks a significant step in your career. How has this partnership influenced your artistic direction or approach to releasing music?

I haven’t worked with Full Time Hobby for long and they’ve already been so supportive and encouraging so it feels very exciting.

The video for "Where Does The Time Go" accompanies the song beautifully. What was the creative process behind creating this visual representation of your music?

Thank you! I wanted to film something in Bristol and picked Ashton Court, a park on the outskirts of the city. Me and Ollie the videographer had an ambition to create something simple yet direct and filmed in various areas of the park including the woods.

Could you describe your songwriting process? Do you typically start with lyrics, melodies, or a concept when creating new music?

I often start with writing a melody and the lyrics follow. I struggle writing lyrics first but sometimes I come up with a theme beforehand. I usually loop some chord progressions and sing over them until something makes sense.

What do you love right now?

The neighbour's cat.

What do you hate right now?

People in power.

Name an album you’re still listening to from when you were younger and why it’s still important to you?

The Roches self-titled album. My mum had this on repeat when I was younger and I always thought they looked so cool on the cover. 

Looking ahead, what can fans expect from your future releases? Are there any themes or directions you're excited to explore in your upcoming music?

I would like to experiment with other instruments, collaborate with other musicians and write some more choral pieces.