On the first of our series of interviews with the acts of the Summer Ironworks Showcase, we speak to Topher Elliott about the event, his new project and plans for 2014.
Can you introduce yourself and tell us a little about your music?
I’m Topher, I kind of mess about with various guitar techniques to try and create a unique alt-folk sound. I’ve recently started a band under the name Penniless Moth with my friend Neil Mackenzie. It’s the same songs as I’ve been playing before, but with Neil backing me up switching between guitar and bass. I’m much happier with how it sounds now.
How has 2014 been shaping up for you and your music?
Well the start of the year was generally quite quiet, I was finishing off all the bits and pieces for my EP ‘Create’ (see underneath) which Neil actually recorded and generally helped me out with.
I’ve had a good few support slots playing as Topher Elliott but I especially enjoyed the first couple of gigs as Penniless Moth at the Greenhouse and then the day after at the wonderful Croft Music. Everything’s sounding a lot fuller and tighter since Neil joined and I’m looking forward to getting out there with it.
How does it feel to be playing the showcase and how important are these events for the music scene?
It’s really cool getting asked back for a Summer Showcase, I was lucky enough to have played last year and it’ll be good to come back with a fuller sound. The showcases are a great chance to see a load of local acts on one night. It’s awesome for the local music scene that there are gigs where smaller acts and local bands can get the chance to play to a wider audience.
Which bands are you looking forward to seeing at the showcases and why?
It’s a difficult choice, there are a lot of great acts on both nights, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say Matchstick Maker, haven’t seen him play in a while and I always really enjoy his stuff.
What have you got planned for the rest of the year?
For the rest of the year I’m just really hoping to get a lot more gigs as Penniless Moth. We have plans for some recordings very soon and we’re very much looking forward to seeing how it all goes.
The first Summer Showcase is on the 26th of July, 2014. Tickets can be purchased via the Ironworks website. Keep up to date with the local music scene by signing up to our mailing list.
