Art & Design blog

TUSKS’ Emily Underhill took a moment out of her busy schedule to talk to XETH and tell us about her latest project. The London based artist and producer is newly signed to One Little Indian Records and releases her debut album later this year. Her music, described as Electronic meets Experimental Indie Pop, is loved by BBC Radio 1’s Annie Mac and BBC 6 Music’s Tom Robinson says it’s “Gorgeously atmospheric”.

Tusks’ self-produced debut EP ‘Ink’ clocked up over a million streams on Spotify thanks to her sweet vocals. She’s just completed a UK tour promoting her latest single  ‘Toronto’ and we asked the artist about challenges she faces as a musician and her proudest achievement so far.

XETH: At what age did you start to take an interest in the field you work in?

TUSKS: I always played music from a young age but I don’t think it was until about 17 that I decided to try it properly and start releasing songs and playing live

XETH: What’s your proudest achievement so far?

T: Hmm good question – I was really proud of the False EP that I released last year after signing to One Little Indian Records. I’m a big fan of the label and the artists that they work with so it’s amazing to be a part of that now

XETH: What’s the most challenging aspect of your work?

T: I think doing everything solo can be really challenging & believing in yourself even when no one else is there to back you up but you just have to go with your gut and be confident in yourself. I think that’s the biggest lesson I’ve learnt so far.

XETH: What are your top three favourite songs?

T: It changes on a daily basis but today I’ll go for

‘I Forget We Were’ by Ben Howard

‘Guuurl’ by Lapalux

‘London Thunder’ by Foals

XETH: What is your favourite London music venue and why?

T: I love smaller more intimate gigs. Places like Birthdays and The Waiting Room are great. They have great PA’s and enough people to have a vibe but small enough so the gig still feels really special.

XETH: Name three creatives who have inspired you over the past 10 years?

T: Bjork, Grimes and Bonobo

XETH: Have you got any exciting projects coming up in the near future?

T: Yes! I’m releasing my debut album this year which feels unreal. The new single Toronto is online now.

XETH: If you weren’t a musician what other career would you have chosen?

T: I really wanted to be in costume design but to be honest I think I’d probably just be travelling. I used to teach Watersports so maybe that on some hot beach…

XETH: What advice would you give to younger people who want to work in the creative industry? 

T: Be prepared to work really really hard. Don’t sell yourself short, focus and believe in yourself.

TUSK’s new single ‘Toronto’ is available to listen on Soundcloud and buy here