For all their worthwhile fundraising, charity records tend to be wack. Celebrity “musicians” covering a middle-of-the-road overplayed composition, no thanks. Eric Lau’s latest release (raising funds for Save the Children) proves it is possible to blend philanthropistic motives and quality music. We shared a Q+A with Eric about the project:
When was the project conceived?
In April a label called Kilawatt approached me to do a project saying they wanted me to work with musicians to re-play some of my tracks. Unfortunately we couldn’t work out an agreement. Fortunately however we were so keen I was like well if you give all the proceeds to charity then I will do it. Simon the label owner was more than happy to make it happen.
Why Save the Children?
For the last 6 years I have been working with young people and children leading workshops and mentoring through music. This experience has given me the chance to see how important young people are to all of our futures. We wanted to choose an international charity that help children and young people who suffer from poverty and who help can help them get a better quality of life. You never know who they can become because of some support, they could be the next Dilla or Einstein!
How did you link with the artists?
All the artists involved are first and foremost friends. As musicians and artists, I’m a fan of all of them. When I told them about the project everyone was willing to help and support in any way possible. This was the same with the studio, engineer, mastering, designer, illustrator and photography! Was great to see people come together and give up their time and incredible talents to a cause that will hopefully make a difference. We obviously hope that this project will generate some support for Save the Children however I also hope this inspires others to think about ways of using their talents to help others.
How were the songs assembled?
We had one day in the studio to lace 3 tracks. Unfortunately we only managed to finish 2. We were really pushed for time but everyone seemed to have a great time and I think a lot of long lasting relationships were made that day. Everyone played their position and I pieced it all together.
Now you’ve created a madly-talented London super-group, what next?
I know that everyone enjoyed the feeling of being together in a really nice studio environment. Some of the artists and musicians had never met before and got on really well. I hope everyone can get the chance to work together more in this way because to me it makes perfect sense.
More photos here or in video montage below
The Team:
Drums: The PSM
Guitar: Ben Jones
Bass, Piano: Akwasi Mensah
Flute: Finn Peters
Synthesizers: Floating Points (although unfortunately not on the finished tracks)
Vocalists: Rahel, Fatima, Sarina Leah, and Szjerdene
Engineer: Blue May
Photography: Lily Lau
Design: Ashkahn
Illustration: T.S Abe
Studio: Fish Factory
Mastering: Fluid Mastering
Available digitally for a paltry minimum donation of £2, purchase Eric Lau & Friends – See & Under Standing (Reprise) at: kilawattmusic.bandcamp.com
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