Indie-pop newcomer CHERITON – aka Nick Harrison – prepares to release his addictive debut single Parallel out now via So Good So Good.

The single – produced by Andy Hall Hall (Bastille, Fickle Friends, James Gillespie) – reflects on social media and the damaging effects it can have on mental health. CHERITON elaborates, “its a story of how fantasies and image projection run alongside reality and how people perceive relationships”. Reminiscent of the likes of Passion Pit or Metronomy, CHERITON combines sparkling synths and vibrant melodies with effortless harmonies to create an undeniably infectious hook-driven, guitar-pop gem.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Cheriton about the latest release, challenges, technology and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?

All the songs on this EP started with me, my guitar and a drum machine.  These elements, even amongst the final production I hear loudest.  So for that reason I’m attracted to the honesty.  

What led you into this journey with music? And further, what drives you to push it out to the public?

I’ve been making music for so long its just woven into my life, from listening to learning, writing to recording Ive always made time for it.  Its my passion which I suppose makes it my journey also?  My drive to push it comes from how much other artists music moves me and hoping I could in turn push another to create and enjoy music. 

Who or what influences your creativity? Have your tastes in music changed over time?

Lots of things I guess.. my mood, my company.  What I happen to be listening to, reading or watching, where I am. The moments where I feel the need to write are sometimes super frequent & other times sparse.  I love finding new music which excites me makes me pick up the guitar or meeting new musicians who inspire me.  My tastes I would say have developed not changed.. ive learnt more about music & in some cases unlearnt more about music! I try to keep open ears and then what stays stays & what doesn’t doesn’t. 

Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?

I wanted to make something as honest as possible, something tender & something personal.  Id been writing/recording these songs for sometime and they needed a home.  Im proud of the work we put in to keep that running throughout the EP.

What was the last song you listened to? 

Private Eye by M T Hadley 

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

All fantastic IMO, but nothing beats vinyl for its physical presence, touch & art.

How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?

I use pretty much only Spotify so I’ll say that.  Its had its problems! But think it is fantastic for finding new music. 

Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what is the biggest challenge you face when trying to connect with or find new fans?

I think there are actually fantastic new opportunities for artists to connect with fans, online funding or patreon are good examples of where artists can build relationship with their fans.  But getting out there will always be tough due to how saturated it can be.  Ive always held the belief that if you push forward on your path, find your voice, develop & improve your art and audience will grow.. so cliché.. stick at it! 

Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more music?

@iamcheriton on social media, Spotify for music.