From simple indie-folk choruses as heard in songs such as “Fire Is In The Fjord” off of their self-titled EP Emily and The Woods, to more upbeat rhythms as heard in “Helios” off of their latest EP Then We Collide, London based band Emily and The Woods capture it all. Lead singer, Emily Wood provides beautiful vocal melodies along side brother, Benedict Wood, and two other band members Dave Bush and Sam Brown.

Emily and The Woods- Emily and The Woods Facebook Page

Song after song the band produces sounds that capture the essence of beautiful simplicity, allowing listeners to focus on the creative and interesting lyrics, yet not lose focus of the bold guitar riffs and steady percussive rhythms. Over a series of years, the band has produced three EPs, each encompassing the familiar, wonderful sound of Emily and The Woods, while introducing new, much more electric sounds, representative of their growth together as a band. Maybe it is the name Emily and The Woods, implying something mystifying and lovely; I imagine woods filled with pine trees or a fairytale setting in London (even though I have never been there). The reality is Emily and The Woods consistently produce bold, yet whimsical songs with the right balance between unique lyrics and light, but effective musical accompaniment. I sincerely hope they are able to make a trip to tour in the United States soon! Recently, Emily was able to answer a few questions about the band’s music and experiences; this is what she had to say:

Emily and The Woods have released three EPs over a span of four years. In what ways do you feel your music has changed and evolved since the first one was released?

The music has evolved into a more full sound. It’s fully electric now, with electronic elements which sets it apart from my earlier songs that were far more acoustic.  

I read that you record music in a shed in the bottom of a garden, which sounds intriguing. How do you feel this environment adds to the experience of recording and making music?

I did record early demos in a shed at the bottom of the garden at my family home but we are now recording in a studio in North West London. We all feel it’s very important to record in a place you feel comfortable and at ease in – makes it a lot more fun and ensures the recordings have a relaxed feeling to them!

You have said that you have a degree in philosophy. Do you believe your knowledge of philosophy influences your lyrics and if so, how?

I think that reading lots does inspire lyric writing and that certain ideas, and ways of articulating them, are inspiring – sometimes you can learn as much about how you don’t want to say things as how you do!

One of my favorite songs is “Never Play.” The lyrics are a bit melancholic, yet charming. How did this song come about?

It came from overhearing a man warning his children about playing near some steps and I just thought about the ways in which people use certain phrases and ways of expressing things to stop others exploring. 

 I am sure this will be a difficult question, but do you have a personal favorite song?

I have lots! I love Joni Mitchell’s song ‘Hejira’ – it covers so many different ideas and themes all at once. 

 Any plans for upcoming tours?

We have just finished a UK tour which was great fun, and our next stop will be lots of festivals in the UK over the summer! We’d love to get further afield in the next year or so too!

Listen to a live version of “Never Play” here

Support the latest EP here