Melbourne, Australia resident The Engagement is a excellent example of a pop group that elegantly leverages their originality and compositional skills to the service of modern entertainment. Their new single ‘Collide’ demonstrates blazing musical stylings that are sure to appeal to mainstream audiences. This pop group with a performance flair has the right look and the right attitude to become a proper pop-magnet and audiences around the world are beginning to acknowledge the fact that a new creative force has arisen. Where will they take it from here? One critic wrote of their award-winning work: ‘All songs on 'Orbit' are well-conceived pop creations with impressive production qualities that ensure The Engagement’s vocal prowess isn't stymied by less-than-optimal handling.’ We suspect this group will navigate the future on their own terms, given their obvious passion and musical skills. Independent reporter Alexis Adams recently caught up with The Engagement to discuss their music and the interesting path by which they came to it.
ALEXIS: Let's just get this out in the open- What is the craziest thing that has happened to you in your music career?
THE ENGAGEMENT: Hmm I have a few but the most recent was a few weeks back when I just finished a show and went for a pizza with some friends. At the window of the restaurant where I was sitting 2 drag queens came up to me and were dry humping the window directly in front of me. The drag queens then came into the restaurant telling customers & owners all about me & my music and asking me to sing! Everyone was staring at me including people in their cars/tram wondering who the hell I am! I was so embarrassed and was red as a tomato in the face lol.
ALEXIS: Your song ’Collide’ is receiving a positive listener response on radio. What was your initial reaction when you first heard your song playing on radio?
THE ENGAGEMENT: It was a surreal moment I will never forget! I was in my car and had to stop somewhere just to have a moment and realise that my music is finally being heard and my hard work is finally starting to pay off.
ALEXIS: What was the inspiration behind your debut radio single?
THE ENGAGEMENT: I wanted to create something that would be great for the clubs and would just make you want to dance. But ultimately I wrote the song during a time I was 'battling' someone and they were in the wrong. So writing the song helped me express my feelings and get through that rough time.
ALEXIS: It is often said that great art arises from difficult experience. Is there something in your life experience thus far that you would describe as the ‘catalyst’ or ‘fuel’ for your desire to create music?
THE ENGAGEMENT: When I was a teenager I went through depression and was bullied at school for my voice breaking late. So going through those experiences forced me to turn to passions I loved to help me cope; that being music. Whether it was performing, writing or even just listening to my ipod. I come from an Italian background, so my parents always wanted me to do the standard 'safe' 9-5 job. I chose to move away to gain my independence and focus on my music even if it meant cutting ties for a while.
ALEXIS: How would you characterize yourself as an artist/musician? (Ex. Down-to-earth, serious, fun-loving, complicated…)
THE ENGAGEMENT: As an artist I would definitely say I am humble, chilled and love to have fun. But when it comes down to the music if things need to get done I ensure that I put out the very best that I can do.
ALEXIS: What has your experience been like working with the other people on your team?
THE ENGAGEMENT: Currently I have a great team of producers and band members who are professional, have the experience to back up their craft and know when to have a laugh. In the past I've had some bad experiences, but you become stronger as a person and learn who to trust. I don't regret any experiences I've had so far as it has gotten me to where I am now.
ALEXIS: Did you come from a musical background? Are there other musicians in your family?
THE ENGAGEMENT: Yes. My whole family has a big passion for music. My siblings and I would listen to music no matter where we went. At times the house would sound like a night club with music blaring from our back to back bedrooms, lol. Whether it was singing in the toilet where the neighbours could hear or blasting music throughout the house, our home was inspired by music. My uncle is a pianist in a jazz band and been playing for as long as I can remember, and my cousin is a professional singer performing at weddings and corporate gigs.
ALEXIS: What do you find most rewarding about being an artist? What do you find most challenging?
THE ENGAGEMENT: I find it rewarding when people come up to me and tell me how my songs have inspired them in some way or helped them get through a tough time in their lives. Recently I've gone busking in the city and people who are less fortunate than me have given me their dinner money because my music made them smile and they wanted to keep listening.
It makes me realise people are connecting with my music and it's all worth it even when times get tough. The challenging part, I find, is trying to balance with my music career with working to put food on the table and pay my rent. Also, staying persistant on the journey of my music career and having faith in my team, hoping they know what they are doing with my 'brand.' Sometimes things move slow when they should be moving faster, so my patience levels can take a toll at times.
ALEXIS: Who are your role models in music?
THE ENGAGEMENT: Hmmm, I have so many artists that inspire me in music. But I would say Michael Hutchence (Inxs), Prince, Freddy Mercury, Justin Timberlake and Michael Jackson have influenced me most in my music and as a performer.
ALEXIS: Describe your best or most memorable performance.
THE ENGAGEMENT: I have a couple. Performing my ballad song 'Betterman' always gets me emotional as it's very personal. I would pause throughout the song to dead silence and the audience are all watching for my next move. It was trully a magical moment knowing I have all their attention. Also recently playing my latest single 'Closer,' after asking the crowd to get up and dance and the whole room was up dancing and cheering. This was a moment I realised I am entertaining the crowd and they are having fun!
ALEXIS: What advice would you give to young, aspiring artists out there who are unsure and need guidance?
THE ENGAGEMENT: Make sure you are working with the right people and trust your gut instinct. Also, be patient and persistant with music as it is one of the hardest industries to break into. No matter how rough times get, don't give up. Evenentually you will get there.
ALEXIS: What's next for you as an artist? Is there a new single in the works? If so, what can you tell us about it?
THE ENGAGEMENT: Doing more shows of course! But I am currently working on new music for another EP and putting the final touches on the next single 'Unbroken.' The song is a very emotional song that is personal to me, but it also has an EDM dance vibe to it. It will make you want to dance but also has a positvie/inspiring message. I think people will dig the track.
ALEXIS: Very exciting, I can't wait! Thank you for taking the time to let us into your world as an artist. I wish you continued success in your career.
http://www.theengagementmusic.com
