When we first laid ears on KOTA’s new EP Parking In Dark Spaces, we were immediately on board with their hard-hitting rock sounds. The EP is bursting at the seams with sonic energy, and if you haven’t already listened to it, we reckon you should you go do that now.
Fresh off the EP’s release, we caught up with the band themselves to chat all about it, the evolution of their sound, and what the future holds.
Hot off the release of their new EP Parking In Dark Spaces, we caught up with Melbourne-based three-piece KOTA for a chat.
HAPPY: Hey, how’s it going? What are you up to at the moment?
KOTA: Hi! I’m really good. Currently, I’m organising both upcoming gigs and recording time for a new single. Exciting times.
HAPPY: We’re loving Parking In Dark Spaces! How does it feel having the EP out there in the world?
KOTA: Thank you! I really appreciate it, absolutely stoked that you like the music. It feels amazing as this EP has been a long time coming and we feel a huge leap forward for us both in songwriting and production of our music. Shout out to Finn at Headgap Studios.
HAPPY: Hold Them Under was a standout track for us – could you tell us a bit about that song?
KOTA: That’s fantastic to hear as this track we felt was sonically the strongest after hearing the recordings. In terms of writing, Hold Them Under was the most organic track we have ever written as a band. Completely made on the spot at rehearsal. Lyrically the song is about people presenting an image that isn’t accurate, particularly in regards to social media.
HAPPY: Do you have any favourites from the EP?
KOTA: For me personally Heaving will always be my favourite as it’s a song that displays the huge influence Queens Of The Stone Age has had in shaping my love for music. The reaction from people playing this live is another reason, so much energy in the room. I do have to say that the majority of my mates love Falling To Pieces, which is great because not many are rock fans.
HAPPY: You’ve already got a few singles under your belts… how do you see this new EP as being different from past material? If at all…
KOTA: Compared to our previous material, which in general was more grungy, this EP displays the band’s versatility in terms of songwriting. We wrote with a more holistic approach to include more melodic elements, contrast between different sections, and explosive energy.
HAPPY: Are there any particular artists you’re really loving at the moment?
HAPPY: Ohhh so many haha! I’ve been listening to a lot of Clowns, Foals, Tool, and G-Flip. Clowns have just released their new album Nature/Nurture, simply just a stunning record. Can’t recommend the band enough! New Tool songs appeared on YouTube after a thirteen-year wait, saw G-Flip at the corner, and seeing Foals in July.
HAPPY: What’s next for KOTA? Any other exciting plans in the works?
HAPPY: Next we’ll be entering the studio for record one or two new singles, still deciding haha. This means new gigs and hopefully interstate tours! We also have a gig coming up June at Whole Lotta Love bar with 74 Kings, Swiss Coast and Kandalini. Killer bands!
HAPPY: Cheers for the chat!
KOTA: No, thank you. Really appreciate you chatting to me!
Parking In Dark Spaces is available now. Listen above.
