Features : Anita Lester Interview

Melbourne abstract pop artist Lester The Fierce is an interesting amalgamation of Anita Lester and her alter ego. The creative singer songwriter has just released her latest single Howl and has embarked on a tour of the east coast of Australia supporting Ngaiire.

Lester is a versatile artist and recently had a chat to Music News about touring with Ngaiire, illustrating children’s books and her love of 90’s rock music.

Music News - When did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in music?

It took me a while from the moment I realized I wanted to make music till now, but the spark was probably when I heard Candles In The Rain by Melanie at 17. Massively daggy, but true. I did the whole 'Almost Famous' thing and sat in my room with a candle and listened to it in the dark.

Music News - What genre best describes your music?

Romantic, spook, pop, rock.

Music News - You just released your latest single Howl; can you tell me about that? What inspired the song?

The song is about feeling like you can't express yourself in the way you want to - kind of like yelling at the top of your lungs to shut eyes and closed ears.

Music News - Which artists have influenced you?

It's really a large mixed bag - people influence me for different reasons in different aspects of the music. For example, I love 60's folk like Crosby, Stills and Nash, Neil Young, Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell for the whimsical soul and visual lyrics. Leonard and Nick Cave for their completely moving words and religion that they make with songs. But I also love 90's rock, like Hole, Garbage, The Cardigans, Fiona Apple. Kind of girl power stuff. For any musician, they usually will have multiple points of reference - I'm pretty much the same!

Music News - You’re about to tour the east coast of Australia as Ngaiire's special guest. Can you tell me about that?

It's a blessing touring with Ngaiire. She has one of the greatest voices I've ever heard. It's an interesting mix of genres, but it's nice to have diversity in a night.

Music News - What can people expect to see when they come to one of your shows?

Good music I hope! I have a wonderful band, which are all artists in their own right. We bring soul to the show, I hope that comes across.

Music News - What is next for Lester The Fierce?

Well, touring a whole lot! We are demoing the debut album at the moment, so I'm hoping to release that sometime next year.

Music News - I hear that besides music, you are a passionate children’s illustrator. This sounds incredible. Where can we see your illustrations?

In children's books, online, on my website. I go under the same name 'Lester The Fierce'. It's a brand I suppose!


Check out the clip for HOWL here!!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VaqBt3_J0yA&feature=youtu.be

For further information on LESTER THE FIERCE, check out her Facebook page and website!!

www.facebook.com/Lesterthefierce

www.lesterthefierce.com