Dullards
Dullards is a British 60’s/70’s inspired experimental glam rock power pop duo. Consisting of Roger Heathers (musical maestro) and George Pilgrem Sings The Hits (who sings the hits), their double A-side Unlucky 4 U / Grand Pier came out earlier in 2020 as their debut release. Today George answers my questions.
What are your favourite qualities in a song?
For me I always end up going back to a layered 70’s glam vocal sound but I usually throw a bit of punk into the mix, so it is not too pure. But in terms of other people’s music if it’s interesting I’m there. Roger on the other hand goes for chord writing, especially non diatonic stuff and a good approach to harmony vocals always draws him in.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Currently obsessed with Ron Mael from Sparks and his brother Russell. But growing up it was exclusively Queen, Bowie, T-Rex and The Darkness (strangely also a Pete Doherty phase as a teenager). Mr Heathers would say mostly music from the 60s and 70s – Todd Rundgren, The Beatles , 10CC ect.
Where are you happiest?
Nothing makes me happier than applying an Instagram filter that makes me look 12 years younger. I asked the boy Roger this the other day and for him it is at home, recording or listening to music.
As a performer, what makes a show special or memorable?
My current project is a studio project although I am open to taking it on the road one day if there is demand for it or we can secure a good support slot. As Rog says “We do not do live, as we’re a studio project, at least currently. But a crowd of interested people never goes amiss”
As an audience member, what makes a show special or memorable?
Stage presence – There is a massive lack of front men in modern music (we need more front women too!). My current top 2 have to be Michael D’Addario and Justin Hawkins. The other half of Dullards thinks a special show would be a tight band. Harmony vocalists, a good rhythm section, and a lack of free form jamming in the set.
What is your idea of success?
Creating music that I like the sound of. If other people like it too then that is a bonus. Roger believes success is having enough income from making albums that it becomes a sustainable process. That, and people getting a kick out of the music we are making.
What is something you would like to learn more about?
Vocal production. I’d like to fully nail the Roy Thomas Baker big vocal harmony effect. Roger is similar, he wants to learn reel to reel tape recording. That, and learning how harmony works on a deeper level.
What was your biggest musical failure?
Spending my youth focusing on drink and drugs. Trying to create music that would be considered cool rather than following my heart. I heard the other half of Dullards was in collaborative rap project…. Need I say more?
What was your biggest musical success?
Feedback on our latest release has been some of the best I have ever had.
Who do you look up to?
Anyone over 5 foot 10? In terms of music it is always going to be Freddie Mercury for me. I used to be a bit embarrassed to say it because he is so famous, I wanted a bit more street cred and name someone more obscure. I will give an honourable mention to both members of Sparks because they are horribly underrated. Their new album is a masterpiece and they are in their 70’s! My dear band mate would throw Lennon/Mccartney, Kate Bush, Peter Gabriel and Ween into the mix.
What was the first song you have ever written like?
Surprisingly not too shabby! It kinda came out fully hatched. It’s a track on our upcoming debut album.
Who deserves a shout-out?
Everyone should Listen to the new Sparks album. Others would be Dr Danny, Rubber Band Gun, Jackie Cohen, HiteeSticks. All great musicians.
You can find out more about Dullards here – Check out their double A Side ‘Unlucky 4 U and Grand Pier’ below.