Q&A: Alae

You might recognise the Auckland-based four-piece indie pop group Alae from their smash hits “Summer Thing”, “Hit Me Where It Hurts” or “Too Strung Up” that’s clocking in with almost 3 million streams on Spotify alone! Comprised of multi-instrumentalists Alex Farrell-Davey and Allister Meffan, drummer Jayden Lee and bassist Marika Hodgson, they’ve now dropped their latest single “Frozen in LA” which once again showcases Alex’s out-of-this-world vocals and the band’s uniquely incredible laid back, groove-infused sound.

We’d love to know a little bit about how you guys all met and your musical journey so far!

We all met at different times, in different places. Allister and I (Alex) knew each other through college, we played in bands throughout. Marika popped up on our radar while we where opening for Hollie Smith. She was playing bass like a boss and we jumped on the chance to work with her. Jayden was the first drummer we ever tried out, and he stuck. Eventually the band fell in to place.

Your latest single “Frozen in LA” is such a groovy summer pop tune! Can you tell us a little bit about what inspired the concept of this track?

I was in L.A. at the time. Found my self in a bit of a writing rut, and the lyrics just seemed to fall out. It was a real catharsis for me. A lot of those lyrics are pretty close to my heart.

And to switch it up, NZ electronic duo Clicks have also released a dope remix of this track! How did that come about?

We’re always looking for remixes, and working for different people to collaborate with. Clicks absolutely smashed this one. I think it’s better than the original haha.

Prior to “Frozen in LA”, you released “Lucy’s Mix Tape” which is totally amazing! What were some of your highlights working on this EP, and what was it like to have the amazing Bailey Wiley on “Please”?

Working with Nate Dousand and the boys on our song “Lucy”, was incredible. Shout out to them, because they have killer vocals. Bailey is amazing, we played a council gig together one time and ever since I’ve been in awe of her vocal. She absolutely nails it live. It was a treat to have her involved.

Who are your biggest inspirations in music?

You might be able to hear it, but Wilco, Carol King and Josh Rouse are probably the biggest influences. I’ve got a lot of time for all of their music. If they worked together in a song I’d probably implode.

If there’s anything you could change about the current music industry, what would it be and why?

The amount of middle men making money from naive dreamers. It happens everywhere, but it’s sad that it happens in the creative world. People out there are pouring their souls into their creations, and all some people can see are dollar signs.

Who are some of your favourite NZ artists right now and are there any songs in particular that you love or connect with?

Balu Brigada - “Medicine”. BENEE is absolutely nailing it, her song “KOOL” is damn good. That whole album has blown me away. Nadia Reid is a boss.

What do you love most about living in New Zealand? Do you have any favourite places to travel to or local spots to visit?

It’s a really easy country to live in, no corruption, we’re only dealing with the dregs of COVID-19, and the people are chill. It’s just a good place!

What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learnt in your career so far?

There’s power in numbers. No matter how much you believe in yourself, you have to have so much drive. And, you’re not always right.

Lastly, if you could say one thing to every person in the world, what would it be?

Smile.

Thanks Alae! Make sure to check them out on Instagram, Facebook, Spotify & Apple Music.