Meet An Escape Plan, the band who recorded their debut record themselves in December and out of nowhere landed the new Ikea TV advert campaign.
With their music spread across the nation’s TV screens and gaining over half a million views on YouTube, we wanted to find out more about the band behind the song and let An Escape Plan introduce themselves to you…
Let’s start with the basics, where did you guys get your name from?
I converted an attic in my girlfriend’s house and made a studio. It was amazing, but only reachable by ladder. It was a place to go and create. Whilst insulating it with rock wool and boarding it out like a sauna, it became an escape plan when things got hectic and I needed to be with my guitar. The name stayed as the songs formed and here we are.
Who would you cite as your strongest musical influences?
Old stuff like The Band, Neil Young… then it was early Weezer, Wilco and Mercury Rev… then it was Bright Eyes, The Good Life and The National.
You’ve cut your debut record yourself, how did this come around?
There was no rush and no agenda. We recorded songs together with various other people in various bedrooms, warehouses and historic buildings. It mixed itself as it went along and we just had to choose the songs.
This was over 7 years. Because of how it was made, and how proud we were of it, it made sense to see it through ourselves and stay close to every detail.
Do you believe the DIY approach allows you more flexibility with your release?
Yes. The songs happened because we loved playing together and meeting every Tuesday was a creative escape. It wasn’t to record an album. So with no time constraints or pressure from above, there was a natural ‘it’s ready’ moment.
If someone has yet to discover the band, which track would you recommend they listen to?
For me, I would say ‘Ghosts’ or ‘Warm Hearts Break Slowly’, both completely different but they capture everything we do and two of the oldest songs that have had various versions of demo and then reworked into a “play it like we do live” way.
How did you get involved with the Ikea campaign?
Right band, right time. Our ‘Ghosts’ video arrived on the desktop of the guy sorting the music for it, 24 hours before he needed it finished. We suited the desired style, had the him/her aspect and got asked if we’d have a go. The cover didn’t exist before this and is the result of a heavy 48 hour period between Christmas work parties.
Watch the Ikea advert below
If you could feature on any ad campaign in the world, what would it be and why?
Guinness. Their ads are always good and I love Guinness. My Nan would be proud looking down if that happens.
If your song could feature on any tv show, which would you choose?
I’ve always wanted to be the anthemic sound behind an Attenborough documentary. The brilliant camera shots, the beauty of the planet and it’s life. The Sigur Ros use of this was immense. I want that.
What are your plans for 2013?
Shows. Definitely play to some more people this year, some festivals would be great. Now the album exists we want people to have access to it and we are at our best when all five of us are on stage, nervous.
Connect with the band;
Twitter: @AEPMusic
Facebook: Facebook.com/AEPMusic.com
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