In a lively and rain-soaked interview with the Scottish Music Network, host Karen sat down with emerging singer-songwriter Alice Faye for an intimate chat just moments after her electrifying festival performance. Although the skies opened and rain poured relentlessly throughout her set, Alice’s radiant optimism and gratitude shone through. She spoke warmly of the “really lovely crowd” who defied the dreary weather to support her – an inspiring turnout for an artist still carving out her place in the music scene. Alice candidly admitted to feeling the flutter of nerves in the hours leading up to the show, but those anxieties quickly dissolved once she took the stage. “I just need to give my all and enjoy myself,” she mused, reflecting on the transformative power of live performance – a philosophy she embodied from the first note to the last.
The conversation soon turned to Alice’s highly anticipated debut album, Vodvillain, scheduled for release later this year. She revealed the playful, thought-provoking origins of the title, a creative fusion of “vaudevillian” – the archetype of the theatrical, old-school entertainer – and “villain”. Alice explained that the name encapsulates her fascination with the intricate layers of womanhood: grappling with those moments when one feels mischievous or rebellious yet recognising that such feelings are rarely simple or wholly negative. During her festival set, she treated the audience to the debut of two songs from the new album: “Gilda”, inspired by the iconic Rita Hayworth film and its enigmatic heroine, and “Always Wondering”, a soulful, slow-burning love ballad. Alice confessed she was initially apprehensive about unveiling such a vulnerable, personal track in an open-air festival environment but was overjoyed to see it resonate so deeply with listeners.
When asked about the influences shaping her distinct sound, Alice’s eyes lit up with enthusiasm. She described a lifelong love affair with retro music, citing legends such as David Bowie, Roy Orbison, the Beatles, and Patsy Cline as cornerstones of her musical education. Her inspirations also reach into the present, drawing on the innovative artistry of Rufus Wainwright and Tom Waits. But Alice’s sonic world does not stop there – she is equally enchanted by the dramatic flourishes of French chanson, particularly the timeless voice of Edith Piaf, and the sweeping emotion of classic musicals. This eclectic mix, she explained, weaves together to form her unique approach to songwriting: blending nostalgic storytelling with a fresh, modern emotional edge.
Looking ahead, Alice’s schedule is packed with exciting milestones. She is set to perform at several major festivals, including the much-loved Belladrum and the prestigious Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival – a personal highlight for Alice. She also teased a surprise appearance in Cologne, Germany, broadening her reach to international audiences. This autumn, fans across Scotland will have the chance to see her live as she embarks on a headline tour, with stops at Stirling’s Tollbooth, Irvine’s Harbour Arts Centre, and the iconic La Belle Angèle in Edinburgh. As the interview wrapped up, Karen wished Alice all the best and promised to catch her again at Belladrum – hopefully under clearer skies. With a warm laugh, Alice revealed she would be staying around to enjoy the festival’s other acts and parted with a heartfelt thank you. Her sincerity and magnetic presence left listeners eager to follow the next steps of this promising artist’s journey.
Interview by Karen Edmond
