In the vibrant and ever-changing world of music, fresh talents emerge that captivate hearts and redefine genres. One such act, making waves since their formation in 2021, is Mimi and the Miseries. This exuberant quartet of party-loving girls hailing from the UK have hit the ground running and show no signs of slowing down.
Their debut EP, released through the renowned labels This Could Prove Fatal (UK) and Outro Records (US), is a dazzling blend of 60s girl groups vibes, 70s punk, and Power Pop. The unique blend of these influences has created a record that’s as playful as it is powerful.
Since its release, Mimi and the Miseries’ debut has been gracing airwaves across the globe, garnering international media attention and acclaim. But it’s not just on the air where these girls shine. On stage, they are truly in their element.
Having performed at a string of successful shows and festivals throughout Europe, Mimi and the Miseries have managed to develop a committed fanbase that is as enthusiastic and energetic as they are. Riding on this wave of success and love from fans, they are all set to drop their debut LP in 2024.
Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the world of Mimi and the Miseries in this detailed, insightful, and music-focused interview. We will uncover the journey of these four girls, their inspirations, challenges, and their vision for a future that looks brighter than ever.
Can you share the story behind the creation of “Mimi and The Miseries”? How did you come together as a band in Bristol?
“In between lockdowns in 2021, I (Mimi Misery) was jamming with our good friends, the Alter Moderns, in the basement of our friend’s bar. I filmed and posted this jam on Facebook where it received a lot of great feedback, and the Alter Moderns convinced me to start my own band. We called it ‘Mimi and the Miseries’ as it was just myself at this point and the Alter Moderns if they were available. I called on my two good friends, Myna Misery (Laurie), and Mona Misery (Amy), and we were also joined by Monday Misery (Ananda from the Alter Moderns). We decided to keep the name as everyone liked it, people seemed to like what we were doing, and it came together so naturally! Unfortunately, Monday had to leave due to other commitments and was succeeded by the talented Micky Misery (Amanda), and now the awesome Marceline Misery (Becca) – who we are now working with!”
Your music is often described as a mix of trashy ’60s Rock n Roll and Garage Punk with a sprinkle of Power pop. Can you elaborate on how you developed this unique sound?
“It just happened organically! We all love the same music but have slightly different influences. We all love 60s garage, Soul, Punk, R & B and Power Pop – it is a natural sound for us, it just comes out this way!”
Can you tell us more about your influences from well-known male or female bands?
“Sure, we love all sorts really! 60s Girl Groups: Shangri-Las; Marvelettes; Martha and Vandellas. Detroit bands: the MC5; the Gories; Soledad Brothers; Detroit Cobras, Stooges. Aussie bands: the Easybeats; Scientists; Riptides; Sunnyboys; Rocket Science; Hoodoo Gurus. Also many other bands, including: the Go-Gos; Donnas; Raincoats; Kinks; Patti Smith; Headcoattees; Delmonas; Otis Redding; Ramones; Nerves… Too many to mention really!”
How have they impacted your musical style and the overall direction of the band?
“I think the main impact, and similarity, that we have to the music we listen to is that we like to play stripped-back, short and simple melodic pop songs, and prefer to play through vintage analogue equipment when possible.”
How does the music scene in Bristol inspire and influence your sound as a band?
“Many different genres rub along together nicely in Bristol and everyone supports each other in the music community. There isn’t a snobbiness with regard to genres, which has given us the confidence to not feel like we have to rigidly stay within one style of music and experiment somewhat with the sound and the types of songs that we play. Bristol has always had a great live music scene with bands playing almost every night, and this definitely gave us all a rich education in music and inspired us all to play from a young age.”
Could you share a glimpse into a typical day in the studio for Mimi and the Miseries? What’s the creative process like for your band?
“We usually have a good catch-up and plan what songs we want to work on. We drink cups of tea, or maybe some cider if we’re feeling fancy. Laurie (Myna Misery) usually brings snacks. Amy (Mona Misery) and I (Mimi) write the songs at home and bring them to the studio to work on. We try to work on a new song each rehearsal – some songs come together and some don’t! When we record we like to record a live track, and then add the vocals and any overdubs after.”
Your music has a distinct Soul/RnB/Garage vibe that’s likened to the British Invasion tradition. How do you incorporate this style into your music while keeping it fresh and current?
“I think our style is definitely more trashy than a traditional 60s sound. We also tend to write lyrics that are more suited to the modern day, with topics about partying and not wanting male attention. I would say we’re more influenced by 60s soul, and 70s/80s punk and Power Pop. I lived in Melbourne for many years and am massively influenced by Aussie garage and Power Pop. Mona is a huge fan of Aussie bands too, so we really bonded on that.”
How do you feel being an all-girl lineup contributes to your music’s attitude and flavour? Could you elaborate on the energy that comes from an all-female class and how it influences your sound?
“I think there is a much higher level of camaraderie that comes with being in an all-female line-up, and we support each other to stay strong and authentic. Female musicians are still a curiosity to spectators and are going to be judged by so many factors that are not even connected to the music, such as looks, conduct, and sex appeal, which can feel intimidating. We play unapologetically simple and write lyrics that reflect the female experience, and we convey this in a pretty untraditional way – so it’s not for everyone. We have all played with male musicians in the past, and still do, but I personally feel a lot more comfortable playing with women, mainly as there are no expectations to sound or act feminine.”
What impact do you hope to make in the music scene, particularly regarding female representation and feminism? Can you speak to any challenges or triumphs you’ve experienced as an all-female band?
“To be honest, I think that as a female band these days there is an advantage to getting noticed, especially within certain scenes, and the first couple of years we had a lot of attention. The biggest challenge has been to keep that level of engagement with our audience, especially as we are not necessarily what people would expect from an all-girl band due to our stripped-back and raw sound. I guess the best thing we can hope for is to inspire other women of all ages to pick up instruments and play music!”
Could you give us a sneak peek into any upcoming projects or collaborations that fans can look forward to?
“Yes! We are playing some shows in the UK in early May through to early July, and are finally completing our debut LP! We had a few setbacks due to illness, life stuff, and drummer changes, but it’s finally happening! It’s due to be completed by the end of May, and released around Winter time on my own independent label based in the US called Masonic Sounds. We are currently organising our first US tour, and hoping to book some European dates in the Spring!”
What message do you want to send to new and emerging female bands looking to break into the music scene?
“Try not to give in to expectations, and feel like you have to have a certain look or sound. Be authentic, be natural, express yourself however you feel comfortable, and have lots of fun! “
A big thank you to Mimi Misery for taking the time to chat with us and give us a glimpse into the world of Mimi and the Miseries! We can’t wait to see what they have in store for us next!
Mimi and The Miseries Bandcamp
Mimi and The Miseries Facebook