Check out our interview with Nashville indie-rock trio Goldpark who just released their new single “Covered in Sunshine,” on June 17th.
Swelling with bright guitar riffs, groove-infused bass and anthemic percussion, the arena-ready rock song spreads a feel-good message about stepping outside and reconnecting with the real world. “Covered in Sunshine” is the second song to be released from Goldpark’s forthcoming sophomore EP and follows the EP’s lead single, “Lady Lightyear.”
Formed in 2019, Goldpark is the project of Wes James (vocals), Andrew Smith (guitar) and Kyle Neblett (drums). They released their debut EP, ‘Goldpark One,’ on Hazel Street Records in 2021.
Follow Goldpark @goldparkband
How would you describe Goldpark in 3 words?
Charming, thoughtful and memorable.
How did you all first get into the music industry?
We all grew up in some kind of music culture. We were in different bands and played various gigs, etc. It feels weird to think about being part of the industry even now. I think the first real moment was when we signed as Goldpark to Hazel Street Records.
How has Goldpark changed your life?
I’d say the most extreme change has been the time spent on the road. We’ve spent so much time in a van away from home. It can have its rough moments, but I think all of us can confidently say it’s what we love.
Who influences you?
We’re very influenced by bands from across the pond. Just to name a few: Travis, Radiohead, Aqualung, Phoenix, the list goes on…
What instruments do you all play?
Wes – Guitar, vocals
Andrew – Guitar, Bass, Keys
Kyle – Drums, all things rhythmic
Do you ever get nervous to perform on stage?
We actually had a conversation about this recently. The only time we really get nervous is when we’re not stepping on stage together (for example: one of us is playing a gig with another artist). When we walk out for a Goldpark show there really are no worries.
Tell us about your new single “Covered in Sunshine”?
“Covered In Sunshine” is special. It was written almost two years ago and yet it is still one of the best examples of who we are right now.
What’s the story behind the song?
“Covered in Sunshine” is mostly about the tension we all feel to be online constantly. That tends to be the cause of most of our mental troubles these days. The power of stepping outside and feeling the warmth of the sun is underrated.
And tell us about your previous single “Lady Lightyear?”
“Lady Lightyear” is an intergalactic love story about a man who believes he has encountered a woman from the cosmos.
What is the most rewarding part of your work?
The show. Not only because it’s what everything else that we do is working towards, but because we get to see first hand how our music is impacting real people. That’s a crazy feeling that never really becomes normal.
What would you say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
I think I have one for sure. I think we have learned that clear communication will save you from so much trouble. There have been times where it would’ve been easy to not speak up about things we were frustrated or hurt over. But we’ve learned time and time again it’s always better and more rewarding to do so.
What advice would you give to your younger selves and why?
I feel like that is a hard one to answer. Part of me wants to say nothing because anything I would say might change where we are right now.
What’s next for Goldpark in 2022?
We’re getting back on the road for few dates in July and then in August we’ll have our second ever hometown headline show. Then we’ll hit the road opening for Stephen Day!
What is your own definition of happiness?
I think all of us really just want to provide for our families. The day that Goldpark can fully do that will be pretty special.
Best advice you’ve ever been given?
The people who believe in and love what you’re doing when you’re nothing are the ones you should bring along for the journey.
Where do you see Goldpark in 5 years from now?
Making another record and planning a tour for that record.
Where can we follow you?
@goldparkband on Instagram and TikTok
Goldpark on all streaming platforms!
Favorite Book: Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
Favorite Quote: “The future is something which everyone reaches at the rate of 60 minutes an hour, whatever he does, whoever he is” — C.S. Lewis
Favorite Movie: The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty (Ben Stiller Directed Version)
Favorite Tv Series: Psych
Favorite Food: Almost any kind of sandwich
Favorite Travel Destination: Just give me a beach!
Favorite Sports Team: Go Titans, baby!
Photo Credit: Kara Sheridan
