Interview with Annabel Allum

Annabel Allum is an innovative indie/folk singer/songwriter gigging in Surrey – her songs, like ‘Plenty Fish’ are haunting, raw and emotionally honest.

Her new EP will be out in Spring 2014. I chatted to her about her experiences as a singer-songwriter in Surrey:

DO YOU THINK THE SURREY MUSIC SCENE IS HEALTHY RIGHT NOW?

Yeah! You can find live music everywhere, everyday of the week here. There’s so many niche little bars that have live music playing most evenings. There is also a vibrant busking community, you can’t help but walk the streets of Guildford without hearing some quality musicians.

I think I will always have a soft spot for The Boileroom, Guildford. I played my first gig there in a battle of the bands competition, and spend a lot of spare time down there! It’s such an intimate lively venue, and they serve THE BEST noodles.

(But) I had a really rewarding gig at London Tower Tavern last month- appreciative audience, professional sound guy, and a bar full of interesting people. It’s just off Oxford Street, so you get a really mixed bunch.

DO YOU THINK THAT YOU HAVE TO TRAVEL OUT OF THE COUNTY TO GET CONCERTS THEN?

Surrey is great…for bands. There are so many metal promoters around here, and a lively metal scene. I’ve played a fair amount of gigs (in Surrey) – and they went really well. But if I had any suggestions it would be that there should definitely be more opportunities open for acoustic acts.

HOW EASY IS IT FOR YOU TO TRAVEL AROUND THE COUNTY?

I rely on public transport hugely in my day-to-day life. Trains are reliable, although cost me an arm and a leg!

Annabel Allum

DO YOU THINK THAT THERE ARE ENOUGH OPPORTUNITIES IN THE COUNTY FOR ASPIRING MUSICIANS?

There is never enough. There’s always room for more venues, more open mics, and more live music events!

CAN YOU THINK OF ONE OF YOUR MUSICAL HEROES WHO CAME FROM SURREY OR WHO STUDIED MUSIC IN SURREY?

I believe Lucy Rose was born in Frimley, Surrey. Her music influences me hugely. I also really admire Palma Violets.

HAVE YOU MADE ANY MUSIC VIDEOS IN SURREY?

I have done a few shoots in Surrey. There are some insanely picturesque locations, especially around Frensham. We’re blessed with a real mix of stunningly beautiful country side, an urban vibe, and breath taking historical architecture.

HOW IMPORTANT IS YOUR SURREY SUPPORT NETWORK ?

Incredibly important! These are the people that have watched me develop and grow as a musician. Their support drives me.

DO YOU EVER IMAGINE MOVING AWAY FROM SURREY?

Of course! I can’t imagine sticking in one place for the whole of my life. There’s a whole earth to explore!

THANK YOU, ANNABEL ALLUM

Link:

https://www.facebook.com/AnnabelAllumOfficial