Initially a stage name for frontwoman, Jilian Medford, IAN SWEET expanded to a three-piece for 2016’s debut album, Shapeshifter. But for her new album, Crush Crusher, Medford has returned to being a solo act. And it’s a brilliantly powerful record that displays Medford’s willingness to unveil her vulnerabilities.

To mark last week’s release, we caught up with Medford to find out the influences that contributed towards the tour de force of her new album.

SLINT – Spiderland

(this album changed the way I approach music. The way Slint can be so silent/thoughtful and yet so chaotic from one bar to the next makes for the most exciting listening experience and take away)

Bjork – Vespertine

(this record pushes me to feel things that may be lying dormant or that I don’t necessarily want to confront.. If I ever feel like I am running away from something, I put on this record and face it head on. This record is so honest and emotional I can’t help but feel the same when I listen)

Stereolab – Transient Random-Noise Bursts With Announcements

(Stereolab just brings me so much peace.. the stand out song on this record for me is Pack Yr Romantic Mind. A song that just harps on the theme of loving someone that will tear you apart.

Book: Sphinx by Anne F. Garréta

Film:

I just saw the movie MANDY with Nicholas Cage and I cannot stop thinking about it! Tells a love story through dramatic lighting and visuals that’ll make you feel like you’re on acid lol!

Song: Helvetia’s cover of the Misfits’ Hybrid Moments.

So sweet and tender. Helvetia’s cover makes it feel like a slow, dark/brooding doo-wop tune from the 50’s

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