Poignant singer-songwriter Chloe Foy soars into 2020 with her introspective collection of enchanting vignettes leading the way. Callous Copper is out on now via AntiFragile.

The EP is a intimate selection of songs, old and new, that have been re-imagined within the setting of a string quartet. Each track effortlessly compliments the next as the violin, viola and cello combine to create a sound that is otherworldly. Lyrically intimate and sonically tender, title track and upcoming single Callous Copper bewitches instantly. Mixing sweeping melodies with Chloe’s silk, smooth vocals and distinctively bittersweet songwriting style, Chloe has managed to create a sound that is both relatable and blissfully emotive. Fans of the likes of Laura Marling and Julia Jacklin will feel at home here.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Chloe about her new 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)?

I grew up listening to a lot of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, that kind of thing. Your singer-songwriter troubadours. I was inspired by their words and simple aesthetic. Ultimately I love an acoustic guitar accompanying a beautiful voice. 

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

I was always encouraged to do music as a kid. My parents both loved listening to music but had never had the opportunity to play an instrument themselves so put all they had into giving me that chance. I started off classically but then found the guitar and started exploring expression through music and songwriting. What drives me to push it out into the public? Because despite my Virgo tendencies, I am also a Leo and want to perform to big crowds of people. 

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

My parents have hugely influenced my creativity, from their taste in music to our shared life experiences influencing my songwriting. My mental health hugely influences it too. I am at my most creative when I’m looking after myself and feeling fulfilled, but a lot of my inspiration comes from when I’m feeling the opposite of that. My tastes in music are pretty eclectic – I like almost anything. But ultimately I’ve realised over the years that I’ll always feel most comfortable and comforted by the rootsier end of the musical spectrum. 

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

Yes. I’ve always wanted to arrange my music for string quartet, and this EP was the perfect opportunity. 

What was the last song you listened to?

Life by Dr John

Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?

Probably vinyl. Although most of my music consumption takes places on Spotify these days. But I love sitting down with a vinyl album and listening to it from start to finish. It slows life down a bit. Sometimes I get overwhelmed by all the choice on digital platforms. 

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

I wouldn’t say I have a preference, although I do use Spotify and they’ve been amazing in supporting my music and putting it on various playlists, including ‘The Most Beautiful Songs in the World’, which is quite something.

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 you’ve summed it up pretty well. I think the digital era, as well as giving us this abundance of music, also gives us an abundance of noise – how do you promote yourself or get people to your gigs via online invitations that don’t get seen by anyone? I know that I switch off to a lot of that as I get fed up of being sold to, but then I need to do it to try and get the word out about my own shows and releases. I think you still just have to get out there into the real world and gig as much as possible. 

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

All of the places – Spotify, Facebook, Instagram