HOW DID YOUR NAME ORIGINATE?
The name “Atlas : Empire” originates from a song title in a previous band. After Jamie & I discussed what we wanted to do, stylistically, with this new project I knew I wanted a name that signified a new chapter in my songwriting. The material was very progressive and free from limitations, it could sound however we wanted it to, there wasn’t a pre-determined formula or rulebook to adhere to. To us, “Atlas : Empire” symbolises freedom and the desire to explore new territories.
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WHERE WAS YOUR FIRST GIG AND HOW MANY PEOPLE WERE THERE?
We played our first gig on 11/08/2011 at BLOC - our favourite Independent venue in Glasgow. Atlas : Empire had only existed for a little over 2 months at this point, we played the only 6 songs we had, with our original bassist Dave & one of my old bandmates filling in on drums. The show was pretty well attended, as it put on by a local record label/booking collective who had a decent following in the city at that point.
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WHEN WAS YOUR LAST DAY OFF AND WHAT DID YOU DO WITH IT?
Today was my last day off. My girlfriend & I went for brunch at an awesome café in the Southside of Glasgow, I spent a couple of hours doing press stuff for the album then into the City centre for Italian food & then to the cinema. An excellent Wednesday, all in all.
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WHAT IS SOMETHING - APART FROM YOUR PHONE OR WALLET - THAT HAS TO BE IN YOUR VICINITY AT ALL TIMES?
I always carry at least 1 beard comb or brush with me. Gotta keep those follicles in check!
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WHICH SONG BY ANOTHER ARTIST DO YOU WISH YOU'D WRITTEN?
Ahhh there’s so many! Rather than pick one, I try to take influence from as many artists as I can.
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WHAT'S BEEN THE MOST SURREAL FAN MOMENT?
I wouldn’t say “surreal” so much as amazing, but a few people we know have our logo tattooed on them. Most recently, our friend Daniel got his a : e inked whilst travelling through Thailand. Considering we’ve had band members who wouldn’t get that done, it’s incredible that someone outside of the band feels so connected to our music!