Photo Credit: Kane Hibberd
2020 marks the return of Melbourne rockers Slowly Slowly, who released their third album Race Car Blues last month. The follow-up to 2018’s St. Leonards, which found frontman Ben Stewart reflecting on his whole life, Race Car Blues explores an 18 month period of self-assessment and personal development. We caught up with Ben to find out more about Slowly Slowly, including their influences, aims and what to expect from their live show.
Firstly, tell us a bit about yourself and your band.
We formed in 2015 and make rock music. There’s four of us, we love each other and we have a new record out called Race Car Blues.
How did the band form and how long have you been together?
Alex and myself (Ben) started an studio project with no vision of it reaching the stage. After the ball started rolling we realised the songs would be fun to jump around to. Years later, now with Albert and Pat at our side, we have forged our own little following and things are going great.
Can you remember the first time you realised you wanted to make music?
No one in my family makes music so I always thought it was a silly hobby so always wrote in secret. I always remember being obsessed with lyrics and bands though. It felt nice to sing, but I never had the confidence growing
up.
Who and what are the band’s main influences?
We draw inspiration from early 2000’s emo and also singer/songwriter storytelling. As the main writer, this project for me is quite autobiographical.
What do you aim to achieve as a band?
A little legacy that people can find in years to come, long after my passing and find respite in.
For those who are yet to see you live, what can they expect from a Slowly Slowly show?
Probably me jumping on them, but mainly a lot of singing along and of course forging some new friendships in the pit.
What’s next for Slowly Slowly?
Taking our new record Race Car Blues around the world and the global demolition of band riders.
Slowly Slowly‘s latest album Race Car Blues is out now via UNFD, available to purchase HERE.
