Since their debut single 'Ashes' in 2017, WA act Camarano have built a loyal following with every release since.
2019 saw them drop the EP 'Shadow Calling', while 2020 has seen Camarano release the single 'Holiday Inn'.With the band's sounds influenced by the likes of The War On Drugs and The Shins, Camarano's latest single is 'Give It To Me Straight', which features on their forthcoming album due in early 2021.
"['Give It To Me Straight'] is a song about communication (or lack thereof) and the growing frustration that comes from having to read between the lines," lead singer Mat Cammarano says.
"It is the most raw and revealing song on the album and (ironically) proved to be the most challenging to get over the finish line.
"The song went through several iterations. . . Eventually I stumbled on a combination of elements that truly supported the immediacy underpinning the songs sentiment. The very act of putting it out into the world is both exciting and scary."
Before embarking on the project, Matt was a multi-instrumentalist who has played sideman on guitar, bass and keys for acts including The Money War, Michael Savage, The Peppermint Club, Nicky Sandover and Bri Clark.
How did you find the sound for 'Give It To Me Straight', and how does it differ or draw from your past songs?
Ironically, this song was the most challenging to find. It went through several iterations and botched studio sessions. Eventually I stumbled upon a combination of elements from three separate attempts (including the original demo) that served the sentiment of the song.
How would you describe the single to someone who's never heard Camarano before?
Immediate, loose, DIY, gritty.
How does the new single tie into the sound and themes of the rest of the album?
GITMS is the most 'rock' song on the album. Fair to say this body of work is expansive, ranging from DIY rock to soft solo piano ballad and everything between.
How have your songwriting and production processes changed in the making of this latest album?
Honing in on what the song is about and allowing that to inform the production. Being patient and kind with yourself as you face the inevitable all is lost/ everything I make sounds like trash moment.
What did you do to celebrate when you finished creating the album?
Treated myself to a new piece of recording gear, hehe.
Would you consider yourself someone who 'gives it straight'?
Yes indeed, but it hasn't always been the case. Each year I find more self-assurance in who I am. With that comes the confidence to say what you mean.
What's your favourite live music venue in WA?
The Bird.
What's been your best live performance experience?
Late last year we played a perfect Sunday arvo gig at the Freo Arts Centre. The sun was shining, my loved ones came along and kids were dancing.
Where will you travel to first when international borders are reopened?
Canada.
If you could have any three musicians play on your album, who would they be?
Jessica Dobson, Ryan Lerman, and Jack Antonoff.
What's your favourite new album of the year?
'Impossible Weight' (Deep Sea Diver), 'Ball Park Music' (Ball Park Music) and 'Morning People' (The Money War).
