Hugh Middleton and Tim Ischia are Boyeur, a unique and talented indie pop musical partnership from Melbourne.
What was your first keyboard?
A little Yamaha kids keyboard with a “DEMO” button you could hit and it would perform a cheesy MIDI tune for you. Classic!
What do you use on stage generally?
I use a 61-key Nord Electro 3. It’s a brilliant instrument, I love the electric piano and organ sounds – and super portable!
Is it the same for recording?
It all depends on what’s available at the time. When recording the Gold Street EP I played a bunch of different instruments including an old grand piano, a Wurlitzer electric piano and a Hammond organ. I did also use the Nord for some different organ sounds and the sampled celeste, which we ran through a massive plate reverb to make it a bit more organic.
What’s your latest recording and when will you be back in the studio?
We are just about the release our debut EP called ‘Gold Street’, which is exciting because it’s been a while since it was actually recorded! We’ve been working on new material and will probably get really stuck into recording again after our June tour.
What gigs have you been playing lately?
We’ve been laying pretty low lately in preparation for our tour next month. You might have seen us popping up doing some support slots and acoustic sessions around Melbourne.
Most memorable gig?
The first time Tim and I played together as the band that would become Boyeur! We had spent months putting the show together and designing the setup which includes a computer, drum machines, guitar, violin, keys, drums and vocals – with just the two of us to play everything. It was mayhem! Thankfully things have got a LOT more streamlined and comfortable since that first gig.
Worst stage nightmare?
Computer crash – or, perhaps even worse, the computer playing something totally unexpected!
Album that changed your life?
Maroon 5 – Songs About Jane. I’ve learnt so much about pop music from that album and I’m sure it’s shaped a great deal of my taste about production style.
What gigs are coming up in the next few months?
Early in June we’re playing a run of shows in Sydney, Wollongong and Canberra. Then on June 26th we’re launching the EP at the Worker’s Club in Melbourne. We’re so excited to get out there and finally play these tunes for everyone!
A keyboard tip for the kids?
Be curious, experiment, and play, play, play!