Acclaimed singer-songwriter Amy Macdonald returns this week with the release of her highly anticipated fifth studio album, The Human Demands.
Produced by Jim Abbiss (Artic Monkeys, Kasabian) and featuring the singles The Hudson and Crazy Shade Of Blue, the record delves deep into Amy’s past, as she reconnects and reflects, from a grown-up perspective, upon the magical journey of self-discovery many of us experience in our youth.
“A lot of the themes on this album are about getting older, which seems ridiculous given I’m only in my early 30’s.” Amy says of the record. “But I signed my first record contract at 18, which feels like a lifetime ago, and on a personal level I’m at the stage in life where parents are getting on, friends have faced depression to the point of not wanting to be here anymore, and everyone has had ups and downs whatever their background. It’s OK to feel a bit crap, and it’s OK to talk about it as well.”
Amy Macdonald – The Human Demands
Since her debut back in 2007, Amy Macdonald has gone on to achieve incredible international success, selling six million records worldwide and amassing over 200 million Spotify streams, as well as undertaking a string of sell-out world tours to a total combined audience of 3.3 million people.
We caught up with Amy for the latest in our ‘My London’ interview series.
Favourite Neighbourhood:
I spend a lot of time staying at the Sea Containers Hotel. I love being right on the river.
Favourite place for brunch:
I absolutely love Eggslut – I’m so glad it’s finally in the UK!
Best coffee in London:
I don’t actually like coffee! But my friends assure me that Fuckoffee in Bethnal Green is great.
Favourite gallery or museum:
The Natural History Museum will never fail to amaze me, I remember being in awe when I was a child.
Tell us a secret:
People would never know from looking at me but I’m seriously into lifting weights. I’m actually really strong!
Favourite place to shop:
I’m a sucker for Selfridges. I physically cannot walk past without going in.
Favourite place to find inspiration:
Walking across any of the Bridges in the city! I’m transfixed by the cityscape and always feel inspired.
Best London destination for a date:
Sexy Fish in Mayfair, my husband and I went there in November last year and we loved it. The food, the decor, the location it’s magic.
Favourite park:
I got to know Regents Park whilst recording a few tracks for my new album at RAK Studios in St John’s Wood. I love how you can walk in one end from the tourist world of Baker Street, and depending on which way you go, find yourself coming out right by the monkey cages at London Zoo, at the top of fancy Primrose Hill, or slap bang in the middle of the chaos of Camden Town.
Favourite food market:
There is so much amazing food at Camden Market. I’m already looking forward to going there when I play at the Roundhouse in May next year!
Your sanctuary in the city:
The Prince Akatoki Hotel is absolutely gorgeous and feels like a little oasis in the midst of the hustle and bustle.
What inspires you?
People inspire me. I love to hear stories from people and use them as inspiration for songs.
This season I’m loving:
All the amazing chunky boots – I am addicted to chunky boots!
