On the Couch with William Elm

William Elm Arts Review On the CouchWho is William Elm?
A composer, musician, performer, multi-instrumentalist, busker, artist… He is an accordion aficionado and an avid tea drinker.

What would you do differently to what you do now?
I want to do more of what I’m doing now! More music! More art!

Who inspires you and why?
My album has a lot of songs about personal things, but I’m also inspired by Welsh mythology, weird movies, society, queer issues, the dying planet, and other artists who have carved a path for me, such as Zoe Keating and Nils Frahm.

What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I can only do what I’m doing now. Creating music that’s either a refuge and safe haven, or music that challenges and revolt.

Favourite holiday destination and why?
Tasmania. I’m a fan of the cold and the softly beautiful, what can I say.

When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Wunderkammer on Lonsdale Street, Melbourne. Filled with curios and the strange.

What are you currently reading?
I always have at least one book with me at all times. At the moment it’s two, with my hero Philip Glass’ Words Without Music memoir, and A Queer History Of The United States by Michael Bronski.

What are you currently listening to?
ANOHNI’s new record, Baths, Björk, Steve Reich, Joni Mitchell’s first album, Austin Wintory’s Journey soundtrack, and an internet radio station that plays songs from the 1920s and 30s called Radio Dismuke.

Happiness is?
Honestly – making a perfectly steeped cup of masala chai is happiness to me.

What does the future hold for you?
Releasing this record, putting on more shows, some things for Melbourne Fringe, getting back into writing. Lots and lots of things in the pipeline…

William’s debut album, Metamorphica is set for release on Saturday 25 June 2016. For more information, visit: williamelm.bandcamp.com for details.

Image: William Elm