Sometimes you just need to keep your eyes and your ears wide open to find some lovely gems on the streets. That was exactly what we did when we first were listening to Jackson Dyer’s music. He was standing on a bridge next to the underground station at Warschauer Strasse in Berlin and played some of his songs. As we heard that he’s also playing the first ever Småll Sessions gig in Berlin, we did not hesitate to get in touch with him – ’cause we thought that he would fit perfectly in our portfolio and you definitely need to listen to him.
Jackson is an Australian singer songwriter. He’s able to play the guitar very well and he’s got the skills to loop his fantastic voice as well as his instrument, which helps him to create a very special sound and atmosphere. Also he was telling very personal stories in a pretty charming and easygoing way behind his songs and his life back in Australia which made it very special and intimate to listen to him.
We had the chance to catch Jackson – the man with a hand truck to carry his stuff from one place to another – after his brilliant set at the Småll Sessions concert and to chat with him about Berlin, his music and the way he likes to dress.
Who are you and how old are you?
Jackson Dyer, 24
Where are you from?
Sydney, Australia.
Why Berlin and what do you think so is special about this city? What is fascinating you?
I first came to Berlin because I heard of it’s easy-going lifestyle and also because it was an interesting alternative to London, where I originally considered relocating to. I love Berlin because it has really offered me the opportunity to spend a lot of time to focus on song-writing, without too many financial pressures. Plus, that feeling in summer, where everything and everyone is tingling with excitement is something that I’ve never experienced anywhere else!
Is your artist name ‘Jackson Dyer’ your real name? If yes why did you decide to go with your name?
Jackson Dyer is my real name. Originally, I considered a few alterative names, but they were all pretty boring, so I decided to go with the one my parents gave me cause it was easy haha.
What is your music about and how would you describe your style?
Most of my music is from my personal experiences, as music offers me a way of reflecting on life and trying to make some sense of the chaos! I’d say that my music
In which way are you influenced and inspired by other artist?
Going to see other musicians perform and listening to great albums is the best way to feel energised and excited about music. Sometimes, the going is a little tough and it’s amazing how much a good song can push me to keep at it.
What’s on your MP3/iPod?
Here We Go Magic, Fleet Foxes, Grizzly Bear, Toro y Moi, Radiohead, Fatoumata Diawara, Firekites, Bombay Bicycle Club, D’Angelo
Imagine if you could choose another decade of music and fashion, which one would it be?
If it were just for a few days, it’d be interesting to see the 20’s in Berlin, but now is pretty nice!
What means fashion to you?
Fashion is a great means of expressing yourself and (sometimes) practical too!
How would you describe your style?
Pretty relaxed, I love bright colours and shirts though!
What influences you in the way you dress?
Probably street fashion and seeing what people are wearing most days on the streets here in Berlin and back in Australia, but I love going to op-shops (a thrift shop) and finding unusual stuff and seeing if it doesn’t look too silly.
Indispensable piece of clothing for you?
My jeans and boots.
What did you pack in your suitcase?
I always seem to pack too much whenever I go somewhere, but my shirts, jeans and boots are almost always somewhere in there! Underwear and socks help too!
Thanks!!
Thank you Jackson, for the pretty lovely interview! We’re pretty sure that we will hear soon from you again, either it’s just another gig on the streets of Berlin or an upcoming record – keep up the good work!
Stay tuned…
xx Jules & Christian
http://www.facebook.com/jacksondyermusic