Welcome to our exclusive conversation with Dev, the mastermind behind Glasgow-based indie revival band, The Gilhoolys. Their latest single, “Little Glasgow Boy,” has captured the hearts of fans and critics alike with its infectious blend of Britpop and indie charm.
Inspired by Dev’s love for his hometown, “Little Glasgow Boy” embodies the city’s vibrant spirit, weaving a sonic tapestry that’s both nostalgic and fresh. With guitar riffs reminiscent of legendary British indie bands, sublime vocals and upbeat grooves, The Gilhoolys are revitalizing the indie music scene.
In this interview, Dev shares insights into the band’s history, creative process and inspiration behind “Little Glasgow Boy.” He discusses musical influences, future projects and the band’s dynamic live performances.
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What inspired the song “Little Glasgow Boy”? Is there a personal story or experience behind it?The song was inspired by the love of going back into the city of glasgow and experiencing once again the raw character of the city that i was born.
It represents the adrenalin and excitement i still feel to this day, as the train gets closer to the city and the smell and vibrancy presented when i step off onto glasgow central platform. The buzz that follows is the youthfulness and sheer spirit of the city i feel, as you breathe in its atmosphere and passion. a feeling that can never be suppressed and to date, has never been surpassed.
Hopefully the movement, noise, music and lyrics of the song, captures this in every way, for those that know the city and have the same love for it as i do.
Can you talk about the meaning behind the lyrics and how they relate to the overall theme of the song?As above it’s all about my father and myself being from Glasgow and the pride etc it gives.My family and friends feel the same.
How did you approach the musical composition for “Little Glasgow Boy”? What instruments and sounds did you use to create the distinctive atmosphere?I tried to encapsulate guitar sounds which represented the excitement of being in the city and the atmosphere of it. The movement of the song represents the journey on the train going into the city and the buzz and Adrenalin is the guitar riffs and dynamics of the choruses.
Can you describe the recording process for the single? Were there any challenges or memorable moments?I put the song together acoustically and got the tweaks and dynamic parts arranged in conjunction with the lyrics to create the overall vibe. I then took this into the studio at Main St Records and proceeded to compile the song with producer Andy Anderson. Discussing the song and agreeing the way it should sound and the way I wanted to portray the idea, we started recording parts and Andy working on enhancements and the intricates to create a very fast flowing end product.
How did The Gilhoolys come together as a band? What are the members’ backgrounds and musical influences?The Gilhoolys original came together in the 90s when I (Dev) started writing some brand new tracks and put some musicians together to work on the ideas. All the arrangements and songs were constructed in the usual method I was using of finding music that fitted the story of the lyrics. I then recruited some musicians suited to the sound I wanted to produce. At that stage, it was probably an Indie Celtic Rock vibe. Our influences were from bands like The jam, The Who, The Kinks, the Waterboys, The Pixies and David Bowie mainly.How would you describe your musical style? What genres or artists inspire you?I would lean towards us being in the Indie category. Strong connections to sounds such as David Bowie, The Pixies, Placebo, Soundgarden, Manic Street Preachers etc.We have quite an eclectic mix of styles which very often has been hard to pigeon hole or categorise but for me, its most definitely an Indie Music feel.
What is your creative process like when writing and recording new music? Do you have any specific rituals or routines?I like to have the lyrics and ideas in place then try compose the music to tell the story. I try to have it tell the story and the vibe of the song even before adding the lyric. I will then ask the musicians to try emulate these live and then of course in the studio. It is a process that works for me and I enjoy.
What can fans expect from your live shows? Are there any unique elements or surprises in store?Our live shows are very energetic and we try to create a show that fans can’t turn away from as well as intense rehearsal times to work on and create an entertaining vibe and show. As I recruit band members for live performances it’s imperative the personality and charisma are required to create a spectacle within the show. We have a solid reputation as a consistently good live band.
What are your plans for the future? Are you working on any new music or projects?I am releasing our next single ” Little Glasgow Boy” on 25/10/24 and I am currently 5 songs into a 10 song 4th Gilhoolys album which should be released in summer of 2025. Working exclusively with Andy Anderson at Main St and new management with CCM productions. We expect to release another single in Feb 25 and possibly announce some live shows next summer to launch the Album.
What are your long-term goals as a band? Where do you see yourselves in five years?I am currently writing songs for a few artists which will be produced and available possible Dec 24/Jan 25 and I am actively working on completing the next album. As long as I feel there is some very good songs within me and they are produced as well as they should, I will continue writing and perfume both with a band and also some solo shows. Music I believe is within and has be channelled correctly to get the pertinent end result.
What message would you like to send to your fans and supporters?I would firstly like to thank them for continually supporting me and thank those musician sincerely who have been in the band previously and assure followers that those in the future will create and continue our best work at the very highest level. The Gilhoolys brand is of a good music journey with the maximum effort of a very hard working collective to deliver quality indie music.I will ensure that will always remain the ethos of the Gilhoolys.A massive Thankyou to everyone that has believed in me, supported me, trusted me and the love I have felt from them.Much LoveDev ( The Gilhoolys )
