LEAP: Jack Balfour Scott Chats Debut Single ‘N.L.T.D’ & Mental Health in the Music Industry

LEAP is the new solo project from London-based troubadour, Jack Balfour Scott. Formerly of acclaimed outfit Capitol Records signees The Mispers, who ended their run of success in early 2018 after gaining a  fanatic cult following from their electrifying and somewhat unpredictable live shows, Jack has spent these last few years working on a project that he can truly call his own. And after 18 months of continuous work and preparation, he now introduces himself with his debut single ‘N.L.T.D.’

Bringing together a mixture of grungy guitars, hard-hitting percussion and a hint of electronics, LEAP looks to mark a new beginning for the artist at the helm. Darker and yet still extremely accessible, ‘N.L.T.D’ – “A song I wrote going through some of my most turbulent times. It’s a testament to those closest; that special someone who is always willing to ride the wave with you, no matter how hard it comes crashing down.” – looks to confront his own struggles with mental health, while also remaining positive and looking toward the exciting future that lays ahead of him.

FMS caught up with the artist, who was born and raised between Edinburgh and Cape Town, and studied at music school in Brighton, to get his thoughts on mental health in the music industry, and find out what’s next for LEAP.

Who/what inspired you to choose music as a career path?

“After my first Babyshambles concert at SECC Glasgow when I was 14 years old. Had a full pint tossed at me but it was the perfect soiree! Next weekend got myself a guitar on eBay for 18.99. She was a real beaut despite being mostly untunable. The rest is history.” 

How does working on your solo project compare to your time with The Mispers?

“The Mispers was great fun we got to travel the world playing songs we wrote in our bedroom. Though the studio process was challenging. This project has really let my imagination run wild.” 

“A song I wrote going through some of my most turbulent times. It’s a testament to those closest; that special someone who is always willing to ride the wave with you, no matter how hard it comes crashing down.”

Who else are you working with and what do they bring to the project?

“I work with a wonderful production duo by the name of 9 Pockets. We built up the bulk of our songs at their studio in Hackney. Terrifically talented writers, producers and engineers. The triple threat. I kinda crush on them tihi.”

Which bands/artists are inspiring you right now?

21 Pilots, Sam Fender, Tyler The Creator, Foals, Dominic Fike, Alan Rayman and The Mysterines just to name a few.” 

What can we expect from your next record, and your live show?

“We have a bag full of singles that we will be releasing in the lead up to summer. As for live dates, we have our first headline show at Omeara, London on Saturday Feb 29th. Its gonna get wild!” 

Mental Health is higher on the ‘agenda’ than it ever has been, what do you think drives this?

“Generally speaking, I think more awareness is what drives this. From my experience the more we can help people suffering to not feel alone the better.” 

Do you think the modern age of streaming services vs record sales, puts more pressure on musicians?

“It’s hard to quantify pressure but yes, the importance of being playlisted and the ruthlessness of the process in which that selection is made, can be quite daunting. Though on the other hand, the ease in which we can get access to a supportive audience can offer a world of good. Difficult question! Next please.” 

What are your thoughts on social media, and the need to be ever-present to your audience?

“Personally, I find self-documentation a deeply unnatural thing but probably something I have to get used to. As a tool for promoting gigs and new music it’s a god send though, soooo… selfie anyone?!?”

What’s your biggest concern for you and your generation?

“TikTok.”

What’s next for LEAP?

“We have three singles to release in the lead up to summer and whole array of exciting gigs, so keep those eyes peeled!”

‘N.L.T.D’ is out now.

Live Date
29 February – OMEARA, London

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