What are your names?Juli and Nico
Tell us the story behind the name ‘Salt Cathedral’.
We’re named after a cathedral built inside a salt mine in our home country, Colombia.
What is your genre of music?
Pop? Global pop?
Give us a little bio about you as a duo and individuals.
We both grew up in Bogota, Colombia 10 blocks away from each other but we met in jazz school in Boston. We started writing music and touring in 2012, playing with a full 5-piece band. Then we got into production and electronic music and have released three EPs, a couple of singles, have played all across the US, Japan, France, Switzerland and Colombia. We are releasing our debut record this year!
Your Single ‘Fragments’ has just been released; tell us more behind the title.
Fragments signifies the little pieces you break into when there is conflict.
What was the writing process like for ‘Fragments’?
‘Fragments’ was written originally over an instrumental string arrangement. Later, the melody stayed and the production evolved into a more minimal beat with bass line and samples from the original strings.
You also have a debut album coming out, what can you tell us about ‘Big Waves/Small Waves?
It’s very influenced by Caribbean rhythms, it’s fun and upbeat.
Who did you work on with the Album?
We have collaborations with Assassin, Lee Scratch Perry and Matisyahu.
Do you have any gigs or festivals planned or a tour with the album? If so where will you be heading?
We will be playing at SXSW, Firefly Festival and Guacamaya Festival in Mexico.
You’re performing at SXSW, what are you most looking forward to do?
Playing our new more upbeat songs and getting the crowd to dance. We’re also looking forward to being inspired by other bands and of course, BBQ.
Will there be any surprises?
New music and a new light show!
What has the response been like for the single?
It’s only been a couple of days since we released it into the world, but it’s gotten so much love!
What made you get into music?
Nico got into playing classical guitar when he was 7, music has always been a very important part of him. Jazz made me (juli) get into music – especially Ella Fitzgerald and Bobby McFerrin.
Who are your influences?
We both went to jazz school so that is a constant influence – both musically and as a way of thought. We’re also influenced by world music, electronic cutting edge producers and good songwriting.
How do you get inspiration to write songs?
All over! Life is never short of inspiration. So many people to admire, so much art and history to take in, our bodies and need to dance, so many day to day experiences, our lives within society, music … it’s constant.
Where do you see yourself now in 5 Years?
Playing giant shows and taking our music all over the world!
When you’re not doing music, what do you do?
We’re managing the band! It takes a lot of time and energy to manage the band but when were not doing that we love exploring ethnic foods around NY, watching documentaries, reading, taking photos and throwing dinner parties!
What’s your dream venue to play in your hometown?
Terminal 5!
If you could collaborate with one UK Artist or Band who would it be?
Thom Yorke
If you could collaborate with one US Artist or Band who would it be?
Major Lazer
What was the song you listened to most that influenced you to go more in to the music scene?
There isn’t one particular song!
What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
If you’re not failing, you’re not trying hard enough.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians not about the industry and just as an artist?
Your first instinct is usually right! And don’t judge yourself during the process.
When you get home from tour,
1/Where is the first place you go?
Home!
2/Who is the first person you see?
Our friends Amber and Cole!
3/ What is the first thing you eat?
Rowes – this Jamaican place by our house
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
Yes!
Twitter: @saltcathedral
