Produced after moving to London from Toronto, award-winning Malory has recently released her second album Killer Cut Offs. The Canadian alt-pop artist returns with life-affirming tracks in this sophomore album after experiencing some big life changes. Turtle Tempo sat down with Malory to discuss Killer Cut Offs, discovering new music and future plans.
Why did you choose to enter the music industry?
As a teenager, I loved performing and started writing songs from a young age. My mum was my manager from the age of about 14 and we used to go up to London almost every week, sometimes twice a week so I could play a gig. Slowly, I developed my own style and began to learn more about the music industry signing my first publishing deal by the age of 19. I don’t think I ever made a conscious decision to enter the industry, it just slowly happened. It’s been a crazy journey and the industry certainly has its pros and cons, but I’m super happy with where I’m at right now.
What can you tell us about your release Killer Cut Offs
This release began as an EP originally with ‘Killer Cut Offs’, ‘Puppy Luv’ and one other track that didn’t make the album. I had a span of time experimenting with these tracks in the summer of 2018. I was living in London, UK and was in a long-distance relationship with my partner. By the time I put out the full album so much had changed! I’d moved to Canada, had the chance to be with the person I love and finally started to take myself seriously as a producer. I followed my heart completely when it came to each song and I’m so proud and happy that I did.
What was the recording and writing process like?
All over the place! Quite literally. As it was a self-produced album I recorded and wrote most of it in various bedrooms, basements and apartments across two continents. Some of the tunes were initially written on piano or guitar – ‘Headed West’ and ‘Alone With You’. The other half were built from playing around with production first.
What do you hope people take from the album and your music in general?
I hope it makes them feel something, whatever emotion that may be. The best feeling is when my music brings people joy or truly touches them. This album is kind of weird and wonderful so I hope it inspires people to keep being weird and wonderful themselves.
Which is more challenging for you – melody or lyrics?
I go through different phases. Sometimes I’ll be writing lyrics like crazy, usually when I’m just about to fall asleep. I’ll grab my phone and type weird things in my notes or I’ll do some stream of consciousness rhyming writing to fill up the pages in my notebooks. Right now, I’m in a melody mood coming up with melodies on the piano or singing into my voice memos throughout the day.
Which is your favourite track from Killer Cut Offs and why?
My current fave to listen to might be ‘Porcupine’ – I just love the energy of it and lyrically it is a good reminder to believe in myself.
What about your least favourite track?
They’re all my babies! I love them all! Just before release ‘All Grown Up’ was one that I was worried about being too “pop”. Since releasing it people have been messaging me telling me how much they love it. So, that settled my fears.
Describe Killer Cut Offs in one sentence.
A collection of coming-of-age quirky pop tracks with honesty and playfulness at the heart of every song.
What do you think is the best way to discover new music?
Through the people you surround yourself with! Having friends or family members with a taste in music you trust is always a really fun way to discover new music and bond at the same time.
What does 2020 (and beyond) hold for Malory?
No more holding back, releasing more and more music. Hopefully, collaborating with other artists and writers too. Once this Covid-19 crisis has settled down I’m excited to play gigs again and get on that side of things.
What advice do you have for any person planning to become a musician?
Your instincts and internal voice about the music you love or where you want your sound to go is the number one thing to listen to! Also, keep doing it. If you love it and are truly passionate you will want to play, write and produce all the time. Don’t be afraid to make it your passion and pursue it.
Do you have any message for our readers?
Thanks for listening! Reach out to me and let me know your favourite songs or lyrics. I love hearing thoughts from listeners!
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