Andrew Cushin on "Waiting For The Rain" (Interview)

[KATHE]: This is your first album release, congratulations! On top of that, twelve songs is no easy feat. About how long has this project been in the works?

[ANDREW]: Well it’s been something I’ve aspired to do since starting music. The recording itself was a fairly quick turnaround, we finished the record just shy of 3 weeks, including pre-production. I was incredibly proud of the team and my band, everyone was excellent! As well as the producer, Dave Eringa, who deserves a special mention. It was such an amazing experience recording my first record.

[KATHE]: You’ve titled the album Waiting For The Rain, after one of the songs on the album.

What went into this choice and do you think titling the album after the track sets the tone

for the project?

[ANDREW]: “Waiting For The Rain” was the first song I ever wrote at 16, it was also the first original song I played at my first show. It helped me get my first manager, record deal…it effectively started my journey in music, it’s only fitting that we’ve named the full record Waiting For The Rain – it was also nice to re-record the track with my full band.

[KATHE]: The track “Dream For A Moment” was first released on an EP in 2022 and soon

became a fan favorite on tour. Looking back at previous shows, how has it felt to have

your fans sing the lyrics along with you?

[ANDREW]: It’s always a special moment for me hearing my lyrics sung back. I’m incredibly proud of those moments and so grateful to everyone for singing along at the shows. I think it’s the best feeling as a songwriter!

[KATHE]: Each track on this album has its own unique story. Are there any with a large sentimental aspect?

[ANDREW]: “4.5%” is extremely personal. I wrote it very quickly after a tragic moment in my life and that song really helped me grieve. I owe a lot to that song, I don’t know where I’d be without

expressing that emotion.

[KATHE]: This album has a heavy classic rock influence with many of the songs having stripped back acoustics and gritty lyricism. Is this a specific sound you want to continue onto

further projects?

[ANDREW]: Well having “my sound” was something that came gradually I think. I never made any conscious decisions to sound like this or that…it just kind of happened really. The sounds - or sound - I have on this record suited those songs. Who knows for the future, I suppose it’ll depend on what I’m writing.

[KATHE]: Continuing on that, were there any artists you’ve looked up to over the years that have influenced your personal sound in your own artistry?

[ANDREW]: I was brought up on what my dad would listen to. A lot of Paul Weller, Noel Gallagher, Richard Ashcroft. As I got a bit older I really found inspiration from Bob Dylan, Donovan. Damien Rice is another I was a really big fan of growing up.

[KATHE]: Your song “You’ll Be Free” tells the moving tale of growing into yourself and finding

your way as you mature. Can you tell me a bit about the story behind this track?

[ANDREW]: I think it’s a hopeful track. I’ve used the word hope when describing the album a lot and I think “You’ll Be Free” personifies hope a lot, the idea of moving on and finding your own way. Looking forward, not back. “You’ll find your time” and “real soon you’ll see” - it’s very optimistic thinking, I’m very proud of that song.

[KATHE]: With its heavy percussion, “Comedown” is a bit more upbeat than some of the other

tracks on the album. Listeners can agree that this song exudes a certain attention to

detail with the instrumentals. What was the process of recording this particular track in

the studio like?

[ANDREW]: “Comedown,” like the other tracks, was written on the acoustic guitar, but when we got into the studio we all had a feeling it would benefit a more rocky and upbeat feel. It was a very fun song to work on with some interesting drum patterns and that great Stevie Nicks style guitar at the beginning. It’s one I’m looking forward to playing live for sure.

[KATHE]: Similarly, “Let Me Give It To You” has very distinct instrumentals, including an

impressive bass line and a strong guitar presence. From a fan’s perspective, songs like

these are wildly fun to listen to live. Are there any songs off the album that you’re excited

to play live with your band at upcoming shows?

[ANDREW]: Well “Let Me Give It To You” is in with a strong chance of opening our sets live, that bass riff is colossal and has such a great groove. That song was one I really pushed my vocal on also and you can definitely hear the real rasp in my voice on the record.

[KATHE]: Between touring and releasing music you’ve been very busy. So lastly, what can we

expect next from you?

[ANDREW]: We have our UK album tour in October/November, a second night at the City Hall in Newcastle in December, and for sure we’ll be heading back to the states and Europe next year! I’ve had so much fun visiting new places this year and I can’t wait to go back with my full band in 24’.