Sean from Spinning Coin
Spinning Coin are a four-piece classic rock guitar band based in Glasgow and Berlin. Together for five years, they are about to release their new album ‘Hyacinth’. Today guitarist and singer Sean answers my questions.
What are your favourite qualities in a song?
When it can take you by surprise. When it can linger. When it is inclusive.
Where do you look for inspiration?
Nowhere in particular. Sometimes it isn’t there…sometimes it is. The more I try to pinpoint where I can find it, the less it shows itself. I like it outside, in open surroundings, or in new ideas.
Where are you happiest?
At the moment I am very happy in Berlin, where me and Rachel from the band live. We moved here from Glasgow last January.
As a performer, what makes a show special or memorable?
Usually interacting with the people there. Sometimes, there can be a really warm, relaxed atmosphere at a show and it’s a joy to play.
As an audience member, what makes a show special or memorable?
It can be for something different every time. Music can really alter my mood for a long time and set thoughts in motion that I never knew I could have.
What is your idea of success?
I feel like success is finding a balance in your life where you are happy and fulfilled, and you are not hurting anyone or damaging the environment.
What is something you would like to learn more about?
I would like to learn about peoples experiences, and about places in the world where I haven’t been. I’d like to read more, and be able to communicate with other animals, and plants.
What was your biggest musical failure?
There have been many! Maybe not learning to play the drums, or not becoming a concert pianist.
What was your biggest musical success?
Being able to travel with friends and play music has been amazing.
Who do you look up to?
I look up to my mum, and all of the beatles. People who take music seriously, and people who don’t!
What was the first song you have ever written like?
It was maybe about a squirrel, like:
‘Down in the forest there are trees
In the trees there are squirrels
In the squirrels there are nuts
In the nuts there is lots of ENERGY!’
‘Down in the forest there are trees
In the trees there are squirrels
In the squirrels there are nuts
In the nuts there is lots of ENERGY!’
Who deserves a plug or shoutout?
Romeo Taylor – because he is the king of Scotland. Sheman Sounds – because her songs are very spacey and I like that!
You can find out more about Spinning Coin here and below is their song ‘Ghosting’.