It’s been almost two years since Record Weekly‘s interview with White Novels. Headed up by Jack Bestow, the Glasgow-based quintet, were on the cusp of releasing three versions of the fantastic single ‘California’ at that stage. But fast forward and we’re now in a position where the band are making a comeback following a hiatus. So it’s about time we got back up to speed…

RECORD WEEKLY’S CATCH-UP INTERVIEW WITH WHITE NOVELS

Hello hello, how are you?

I’m very well, thank you! I’ve spent my day wandering around record shops trying to find ones my Uncle Eric has recommended. Picked up Gerry Rafferty’s ‘Night Owl’ today, so currently enjoying it.

Fabulous! So, welcome back to the music scene, White Novels. You’ve had a short hiatus and we’re thrilled about your return. Are you ready to get stuck back in?

Definitely, that’s very kind — and so many people have sent messages of support which has really put a smile on our faces. We’ve spent the last year and a half taking a full step back; we’ve been to more gigs than ever, and really enjoyed being involved in other ways. That’s included session work, working as a gig rep, etc — it’s really allowed us to explore the music scene from another angle and network with some amazing people.

Talk us through your upcoming single ‘Circles’ and the inspiration and musicians behind it.

‘Circles’ was co-written by myself and our keys player at the time, Tam, alongside a few other songs. It was one of our earliest, which eventually we decided we wanted to get produced properly. It’s a song about growing up, mental health challenges and recovery.

Inspiration-wise, at that point, I was listening to the Travis albums ‘The Man Who’ and ‘The Invisible Band’, and Keane’s ‘Under the Iron Sea’. So I guess you can hear elements of these throughout the track.

As for musicians, it was recorded with our line-up pre-hiatus made up of myself, Angus Kemlo, Chris Roarty, Lewis Dawson and Tam Kane. Tam’s piano work really brought the track to life.

What have you missed most about not being front and centre in the industry?

I’ve personally missed playing live. Chris has been playing with [local band] easy days and I’ve been to see them a few times.

Name three bands or artists right now you couldn’t go without having on a playlist.

Tough one — I listen to a large variety of music. Probably Turnstile, Jungle and Franz Ferdinand.

Ooh, good choices! If you could secure gigs in any three major international venues, which would they be?

Wembley, though I might become a footballer, so maybe to play there in another format would be cool. Allianz Parque in Brazil — any gig there just looks phenomenal. And, of course, Hampden Park [in Glasgow] — that would be the dream to play there one day.

Can you tease some upcoming plans for White Novels?

One new single this year following ‘Circles’, then returning live towards the end of this year!

So, there you have it — the latest news from White Novels. But for even more, head to their Linktree.