By Art Jefferson
Photography by Corrine Noel

To some, music is the medium used to communicate with the supernatural, an audible tunnel from the soul to the heavens above. A powerful singer is one whose voice can evoke raw, deep emotions, leaving them fully exposed like a newborn’s first day into the new world. Music is an offering, a self-sacrifice of sorts when that personal gift is wrapped in an artist’s truth. Once given, that truth becomes permanently imprinted in the minds and hearts of the masses. This is when music is in its most potent state and exemplifies that creative at his or her best. This is the artistry of Laura Brophy better known as I.AM.L.

Irish-born and currently based in Brighton, I.AM.L’s debut single “Lionheart” is a triumphant ode to her late grandmother Kitty. Backed by epic tribal drums, her shining voice rings out like a passionate deliverance coming down from the heights. Produced by Tim Larcombe (Lana Del Rey, Saint Etienne, Sugababes etc.), the monumental song is the herald of a future classic. With the record already earning critical praises, I.AM.L has firmly risen like the phoenix from the ashes, presenting the world a timeless work of art, and this is only the beginning.

Art Jefferson – When did you discover that you had this extremely powerful voice?

I.AM.L – I only realised the power of my voice recently. I have always loved singing but I certainly did not sing like this when I was 6. I always loved powerful dynamic voices but seemed to hide mine away as I was scared people wouldn’t like it. Over the past year I have decided to embrace it and let the beast out.

Art Jefferson – You’re originally from Ireland, which by sheer birthright, feels like you were blessed with the gift as an amazing songwriter. Were there any songwriters or literary writers in particular that were an inspiration to you?

I.AM.L– I grew up listening to great artists like Enya and Sinead O’Connor which both still influence my songwriting today.

My dad used make up stories to tell us at bedtime that were always magical and very imaginative, this has defiantly influenced me and my songwriting. I can still remember some of these stories as if he told me yesterday and some have influenced the songs I have written so far. Any story, be it from a book or real life, that really marks its mark on me emotionally is an inspiration.

Art Jefferson – I read that you used to make tapes for your dad when he would go off to work for a week. What sort of songs would you record for him?

I.AM.L – We would sing any songs that were in the charts at the time, from Madonna to Michael Jackson.

Art Jefferson – Your song “Lionheart” is the epitome of what a great song should sound like in my opinion. It was inspired by the life of your grandmother. Talk about her lasting effects on you. I’m guessing she was a powerful woman.

I.AM.L – Kitty is the most powerful/strong woman I have ever met, but she still remained an incredibly soft, loving, caring and passionate grandmother. It’s not very easy for me to talk or write about her without it bringing a tear to my eye, I miss her everyday and I’m so so happy everyone seems to have fallen in love with her through “Lionheart”. I have got such kind words from people about how “Lionheart” inspires them and reminds them of a love one that means the world to them. I owe so much of my childhood to her and so many happy memories, so it was a great honour to write this specially for her.

Art Jefferson – Where would you say your influences sit musically? While “Lionheart” could be considered electronic or alternative, it’s almost as if can’t be confined to any particular label because the sound is so epic.

I.AM.L – I like the word epic and it is defiantly what I want my music to be. I like when people listen to music and can really feel every single aspect of it and connect with the emotion and power of the music. Massive, tribal drums play a big part in my sound along with electronic atmospheric sounds. On my tracks I also love to use layered vocals and harmonies to add dynamic and a haunting feel to the track.

Art Jefferson – I love to get into the creative process of artists. What is your beginning process when developing a song and what are some things to you draw inspiration from to fuel your creative spark?

I.AM.L – I don’t normally have a set structure that I stick too when I’m writing. All of my songs are like personal diary entries and come to me in different ways. Some days I would be walking home and hear a tune in my head. I simply record it on my phone, trying to sing without anyone hearing me. It can be quite amusing as I think people passing think I’m bonkers! Some days I might be at home and having a bad day, then I just write about it to try and get over it and deal with my emotions by putting them into a song. However, I do like to take some not so great experiences and write a song that makes me feel so happy it’s like a big whirlwind of my mind. Songwriting helps me to feel empowered in times of my deepest weakness.

Art Jefferson – In terms of production, who are you currently working with?

I.AM.L – I have been working with my friend Ryan Gorringe and have recently worked with Tim Larcombe and Daniel Smith. These guys are great and I have such a good time in the studio with them. I like to have a personal connection with people I work with before I start sharing my dark secrets with them.

Art Jefferson – Finally, “Lionheart” has received a lot of praises. What’s next for you in terms of music?

I.AM.L – Well next up is the release of my first video, which was so much fun to do. I have also been working on my next track for release alongside writing some more tunes in the studio. Loads more L stuff to come so watch this space as they say!

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