NOVACUB was founded in 2018 by Louise Bartle (Bloc Party) + Russell Lissack (Bloc Party), who were later joined by Venezuelan drummer Tony Alda (Los Amigos Invisibles, Los Mesoneros) and Welsh bassist / harpist Iona Thomas (Neneh Cherry, Laura Mvula). Now moving forward as Louise Bartle’s solo project in 2022. NOVACUB’s music has seen nearly 900 spins on Amazing Radio alone and support from the likes of Adam Walton (BBC Introducing), Charlie Ashcroft (Amazing Radio), and acclaimed actor Robert Carlyle, who included previous single ‘Fantasies’ on his Boogaloo guest show.
By Kamil Bobin
Discovered via Musosoup
Hello NOVACUB. What made you want to become a musician?
I love the way a song can help you deal with whatever your feeling. I think music is such a therapeutic experience. And sometimes it’s not, sometimes it helps you feel light and fun. I use music to help me cope with life.
Who helped you most in your musical journey?
I’d say my parents. They gave me an space to grow and explore my musical outlets. I’m talking about a physical space - a drum shed (but also an environment to explore all my musical ideas). This was pivotal for me to acquire skills at a high enough level to put myself out there.
Your latest release is 'This Is Forever'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
I was falling in love with my girlfriend at the time. It was quite a magical time for me. I had been through a traumatic breakup earlier that year so was very resistant to letting myself feel vulnerable for someone again but this song was about me surrendering. I couldn’t fight the way I was feeling and wanted to keep learning/growing with her as opposed to being afraid to open up again. Meeting her was totally unexpected. I remember waking up knowing I was developing big feelings for her and writing this song when I got home from staying with her for days haha! It’s got a special feeling as it reminds me of the start.
What social issues are you most passionate about?
Mental health is something I think about a lot. We focus so much on how we look and there’s certainly a dialog for how important it is we get exercise etc but I think mental health is so vital for our everyday lives. People are more aware of how important it is nowadays but I still think we have a way to go. I love having therapy - it helps me deal with my anxiety and emotions but I think more people could benefit from improving their mental health and seeing it like the gym - continuous!
I’m definitely all about women’s rights too. I think women are incredible and need to be treated equally! Oh, especially financially. I am definitely a feminist - women need opportunities and respect. Anyway I’ll hold off getting more into that here haha!
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest musical trends?
I listen to a load of new music on Spotify. I also ask friends what they’re listening too.
Is there a hidden meaning in any of your music?
Sometimes but I’m very black and white. People say I’m quite straight up and I think that usually shows in my lyrical content!
What’s an average day like for you?
Coffee, Admin, Food, Music, Gym, Work, Time with my gf, Food, Bedtime!
Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans.
I post a bunch on tiktok and insta. I also respond to DMs when I feel up to it. Sometimes I feel more introverted but I do try and stay open. I really appreciate anyone who supports and listens to my music.
What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Just love what you do. Don’t forget what lit you up when people in the industry try and break you down (because one way or another you or your love for music will be tested!) get good at what you do too!
What are your plans for the future?
Take it day by day and keep releasing new music. Also want to collaborate with new people.