Manchester-based artist IORA creates soundscapes that are alluringly captivating. Real name Holly Phelps, IORA is a project that blends alt-pop with electronica and an abundance of other influences. Her work is a experimental combination of artistic choices, something which ends up with an incredible body of work. We caught up with IORA to chat all things music and the importance of funding on the lives of musicians.
Hey IORA, your EP is a whirlwind of sounds. What inspired the EP?
The inspiration for ‘How did we get here?’ Was the exploration of themes of creation, regeneration and how we are all connected. The aim sonically was to combine the electronic with the organic. The EP was conceptually inspired by books I was reading during the pandemic ‘Sophies World’ , ‘Sapiens’ and ‘Great thinkers’ all putting Homo sapiens under the microscope in their own way. I have enjoyed investigating the circle motion of history and ever regenerating natural world. I wanted to create a body of work that explored humanity, journey and connection and I use it as a way of making sense of events both public and private as life continues to ebb and flow.
It’s a real blend of exquisite sonics, how do you create these gorgeous soundscapes?
First, I want to give a shout out to WR audio (where the EP was recorded) and to all the musicians that played on the EP. It was great working with Biff from WR and taking in all tracks at the various different stages of their development. I have love using field recording blended with live instruments, electronic sounds and synths. One example is the start of ‘Ships’, Biff and I went to the Peak District and recorded some vocals in a cave, inspired by the ancient Scandinavian heading calls know as Kulning. To honour its heritage we thought it right to be recorded in a beautiful landscape.
Tell us about the how you first got into music.
I have always been obsessed with singing and had always done it from an early age- singing non stop around the house! My family are musical and always had songs playing. I started writing songs on my grandpa’s piano after school. I never thought of doing anything with them until later at university when I was studying Drama and felt I needed to give it a go. I didn’t know where to start. I applied for British and Irish Morden Music in Manchester and was very grateful to receive a scholarship to study there for a year! There I started performing my own songs and learning production. I am still learning everyday and relish the chance to work on new projects and collaborations.
You’re supported by the PRS Open Fund, how important is it for musicians to have access to these funds?
The support from fund has been hugely important for my career and development as an independent artist. They are crucial for helping artist achieve their ambitions and bring projects to life. For myself, they have enabled me to take up opportunities, for example the ‘PRS women make music’ allowed me to access my residency at the Roundhouse in Camden in 2019-2020. This most recent fund, the open fund, has meant I have been able to employ more musicians, work with WR audio and have time for rehearsals for the tour.
What’s the rest of 2022 looking like for you?
I have a few festivals lined up with my wonderful band! We are playing, Festival of Making, Kendal Calling and First Street festival. We are looking at another run of live shows for the autumn. Meanwhile I am squirreling away working on a few really exciting project and collaborations. Watch this space!
Is there one artist who you’d die to work with?
Tough question! Bjork, Christine (and the queens), Arlo Parks and Little Dragon are all really inspirational but I think it would have to be Kate Bush. I have always adored her story telling, production and vocals and feel I could learn a lot! It has been amazing watching people discover her for the first time with ‘Running up that Hill’ being on Stranger things! To have a sing and harmonise with Kate Bush would be mind blowing!
And finally, who else should we be checking out lately?
So many great people! I’m going to give a big mix of genres; Dirty Frued, The Elephant Trees, Superlative, Lindsay Munroe, Karis Jade. The list could go on! So much great music out their at the minute!
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