One of the latest bands to hit the Inverness scene are quintet Parmaviolets, consisting of Paul Maciver, Andy Davidson, Martin Stewart and Calum Chisolm. Having played various venues including headlining at the the Strathpeffer Coffee Shop and a set at goNorth, they have a very busy summer in front of them:
For the initiated can you tell us a bit about the background and the influence behind the Parmaviolets?
Parma Violets first came together as a gypsy rabble band but have steadily become more grounded. We are all influenced by great songwriters and music of all varieties
Recently the band have been involved in the house concert scene (with the Coffee Shop gigs), how did you get involved in that and how does it differ from performing in other music venues?
Rob Ellen has been very supportive of the band ever since he watched a video of us reherasing “I Told You So” in the garage, our old rehearsal space. The Coffee Shop in Strathpeffer is a great intimate environment and we have really enjoyed these gigs.
You have your first recording on soundcloud, bitter pill, how difficult was it to decide which track to put on line first?
We recorded and released “Bitter Pill” as it was the most recent song the band had written when Calum brought DIY recording to the band. The recording process has begun for the other tracks and we hope to release these when they are ready.
You have quite a list of gigs coming up including Ironworks and Belladrum. Both those venues are iconic to the Inverness music scene, how do you feel about playing them?
Ironworks and Belladrum are great places so unsurprisingly we are looking forward to playing them.
If people have not heard of you, what song would you recommend they listen to and why?
“Coming Up For Air”. There are a few live recordings available on Youtube
Thanks to the band for talking to us.
Parma Violets play The Fringe Charity BBQ on the 30th of July, Belladrum on the 6th of August and The Summer Showcase on the 11th of August.
