Katie Noonan and The Captains

Katie Noonan and The Captains

Katie Noonan (previously from the groups 'George' and 'Elixir' ) has returned to the music scene to release her forthcoming new album Emperor's Box, with her newly formed band, The Captains.

A five-time platinum recording artist, Katie Noonan absolutely shines on this album, and she proves why her vocal talent has made her the successful recording artist she is today.

Emperor's Box is made up of thirteen personal, emotive works and was co-produced by Katie and Grammy Award-winning rock specialist Nick Didia (Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, Powderfinger). As a mum, Katie has focused a number of her songs on her experience of motherhood. 'Sweet One' which she wrote with Sia, touches on the tough times, and the appreciation of friendship, and the track, 'Cotton Wool' co-written with Josh Pyke, touches on the special bond between mother and child.

Emperor's Box is a soft and sweet sounding album, with the title song Emperor's Box reminiscent of a lullaby. My favourite song from the album is called Half in Water. The melody and the beats remind me of the sort of music you would here on the soundtrack to a movie like Twilight or some other teen angst ridden drama.

Some of the music does however, begin to sound a bit repetitive but I believe that's the worst that I can say about this album. Katie and the Captain's have put together quite an impressive collection of songs to sit back and drift away with.

Interview with Katie Noonan

How did it feel to hear your song played all over the airwaves?

Katie Noonan: Amazing! Incredible particularly as we never made music for the purposes of commercial success/viability so to have our little precious songs heard by many was wonderful!


Did you have any pre-conceived ideas about the music industry?

Katie Noonan: Being the daughter of an opera singer I knew it was hard work and you had to really love it to survive; having said that, the greatest thing is being able to be part of such an enormous, wonderful life-affirming thing.


Do you write your own songs? What's your inspiration?

Katie Noonan: Yes, I write all my songs or co-write them with other musicians I admire or connect with. I had the great privilege of writing with a wonderful list of Anzac luminaries on my new album - including Tim Finn, Don Walker, Tom Shapcott, Sia and Josh Pyke.


What music/artists do you listen to when you are not playing your own?

Katie Noonan: St Vincent, Elbow, Grizzly Bear, Muse, Bat for Lashes, Joni Mitchell.


What's next? Tour/Album/Single?

Katie Noonan: The EP is out now and The Captains and I are touring our little butts off, yet, having a ball doing it! It is great playing all the new songs and connecting with audience. The album is out April 9 and then we will be touring throughout Australia.


Was there a moment you contemplated throwing in the towel?

Katie Noonan: Not really... Sometimes when you get caught up in all the crappy stuff that is not about music it gets hard, but then music just lifts you up again!


Do you prefer performing live or recording?

Katie Noonan: Ohhhh I love both but I guess ultimately connecting with people at a gig and sharing in something wonderful is the ultimate high.


What/who was your inspiration to go into the music industry?

Katie Noonan: Many, many people inspire me to do what I do - but mainly I am inspired by people who are obsessed with creating their own voice and sounding like no one else - everyone from John Coltrane through to Bjork, Jeff Buckley and Elbow.


What is the biggest challenge you have faced along the way to your musical success?

Katie Noonan: Just sticking to your guns and maintaining your integrity. Learning to listen to your voice even when people are trying to pull you in different directions; with this current record I did this more than ever and am very happy!


What's a typical day like?

Katie Noonan: Well, I will take you through today shall I? Woke up , had a latte and haloumi/mushroom bagel at Cafe Giulia's, picked up the band in the van, drove about three hours to the Hunter Valley, did a sound check, got dressed for gig, performed the gig, then signed merchandise and met lots of lovely folk. Then we packed our gear up, packed the van, drove back to Sydney- whilst I wrote this interview, on my laptop in the car. Then I crashed at the drummer, Declan's, house in Bondi, watched some Rage whilst looking at emails. I then looked at new album artwork and photos before reading my book and falling asleep...Do it all again tomorrow!


What has been your favorite part of becoming a music artist?

Katie Noonan: When people come up and tell me that a particular song of mine means something to their life - that is the ultimate reward.


If you could collaborate with another artist, who would it be?

Katie Noonan: Peter Gabriel, Imogen Heap, Joni Mitchell or Thom Yorke would be nice!


Are you single? What do you look for in a partner?

Katie Noonan: Happily married to my husband Zac - a wonderful partner, musician and co-parent to our wonderful little boys Dexter and Jonah.


Do you have a website fans can visit?

Katie Noonan: www.katienoonan.com
www.myspace.com/katienoonan
www.facebook.com/katienoonan
www.twitter.com/ktnoonan


Can you tell us 5 things required for a happy healthy & enjoyable life?

Katie Noonan: Good friends, fresh air, lots of yummy fruit and veggies, music and a good Shiraz!


What message would you like to say to your fans?

Katie Noonan: I'm so excited about the new album and really looking forward to sharing the new songs with you.


What is the story behind the bands name?

Katie Noonan: Music is like travelling without moving... and myself and The Captains will help steer the ship...jump on board!

60 Second Quiz

>Full Name: Katie Anne Noonan
Nickname(s): Noons or Noo-noo
Star Sign: Taurus
Music Talent: Singing/Piano
Favorite Food: Roast veggie salad with lime juice and Haloumi
Favorite Film: Three Colours Blue
Favorite Actor: Juliette Binoche
Pet: none
Best Feature: Loyal Friend
Worst Feature: Workaholic
Hobbies/Interests: Happy planet, contemporary dance and great films!
First Job: Newspaper delivery chick!
Are you a Pub, Bar or Club kind: Pub
What Can You Never Leave Home Without: Sadly, my iPhone.
What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning: My wonderful children and a strong hot cup of tea…

Review by Karli Smith
Interview by Brooke Hunter