Ziggy Alberts is an Australian singer-songwriter and author who has established himself as one of Australia’s leading independent artists. His genuine grassroots story has lifted his artistry into universal acclaim, captivating audiences across the globe – a testament to his song writing ability and powerful live performance.
Founder of his own independent label, Commonfolk Records, and book publishing house, Commonfolk Publishing, Ziggy Alberts has managed to craft what many musicians and authors dream of – the ability to tell a story on their own terms.
‘A Postcard from London’, recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios, is home to live studio versions of some of Alberts’ most popular tracks, including Runaway, Rewind and The Sun & The Sea. Also featured on the EP are two spoken poems from his debut poetry book ‘brainwaves’, which honour and come from his time spent in London.
I’m really enjoying the new EP, can you tell me a little bit about the concept behind it?
I had the opportunity to go record at Abbey Road late last year; with an absolutely mega UK tour coming up, we thought it would be nice to release some music that was geographically synced with the tour!
Who did you work with on this record?
Sergio Milhano from Portugal, Paul Blakey mastered it in Australia, and I worked heavily alongside Commonfolk Records of course.
Four of the tracks are live in the studio, what made you decide to capture it in that way?
We had only a short time available in studio – just for the day! These were the songs that naturally felt like sitting together.
I have a couple of favourites that I wanted to ask you about, firstly could you tell me the story behind the song ‘Runaway’?
I wrote this song in late 2014/ early 2015, mid tour between Western Australia & New Zealand. I wrote it about a relationship with my ex, from when I was perhaps 19/20, and I wrote many songs about her. I love this song for the way that it’s connected with something universal that people understand.
Secondly, ‘Tree Watching’ could you tell me a little bit about the writing process of that track please?
It’s one of my poems from my first book Brainwaves. Poetry has become an important part of my expression, and I remember writing that one in London years ago. It felt fitting to include this spoken word version.
Obviously the record is called ‘A Postcard from London’ so I wondered what is your favourite thing about London?
The botanical gardens. I bloody love hanging out there!
Your UK tour is just around the corner, you’ve added dates and a number of the shows have sold out, what can fans expect from that tour?
They can expect a solid mix of old and new songs, singalongs, and dancing galore!
What’s next for you?
I’m just in Portugal, about to begin the European leg of my world tour. So until then the next 2 days are about sunshine and the ocean!
