ASTA shines insight on debut EP and tour
Ahead of her forthcoming debut EP Shine, Chris Daniel talks to ASTA about her journey so far and what we can expect from her in 2017.
Since the age of 17, ASTA has become a voice within the Australian music scene, releasing notable singles including ‘Dynamite‘ and ‘My Heart is on Fire‘ and making credible appearances alongside Ellie Goulding on her acclaimed Australian tour. Now at the age of 22, her debut EP Shine will greet the ears of the public, with a national tour at selected venues including The Small Ballroom in Newcastle.
In 2016, ASTA visited the University of Newcastle’s Bar on the Hill, and in an interview with the YAK team, stated that she wanted to invest in a full album or record instead of releasing singles over time. Within only one year, this was the foundation for what we can expect to be an amazing 2017 for the Australian singer songwriter.
Though Shine is her debut, it is not a compilation album of all her previous material. Instead, it promises a new outlook to ASTA’s musical journey.
“It’s really a mix bag of funk pop with dance /electronic / house influences. I really wanted to make a record that was fun but at the same time carried out some messages that rang true to me. When I sing, I sing for everyone not just myself. This record I really made for my fans and anyone out there feeling a little unsure of themselves.”
Winning Triple J’s Unearthed High back in 2012, its difficult to process the fact Shine will be her debut EP.
“Yes it’s sort of crazy! I think I was just waiting for the universe to bring me my dream collaborator and they finally showed up. Working with Melbourne based producer Yeo has probably been the best thing that could of happened last year as well as supporting Ellie Goulding on her Arena tour!”
ASTA’s journey has seen her overcome many boundaries, including her age, but in the scheme of things, has found her voice and musical direction.
“It’s been a strange one for sure. Of course winning a competition was a dream come true but at the same time when you’re that young it’s easy to get persuaded by people and lose vision. I wasn’t really sure who I wanted the world to see me as but the amount of support I’ve received over the years has been overwhelming. I feel like I’m ready now to say hello to the world. This is me, Asta.”
Aside from the release of Shine, her plans span across a much larger time frame, suggesting multiple forthcoming albums.
“I’d love to go traveling. I’ve never been overseas so I’d love to write my next record over there and see what happens! At the moment I’m just taking it day by day but would love a little dog and also to start a side project of some sort. Maybe a girl band? Who knows!”
Shine is set for release on February 17th. Tickets for the tour are available through ASTA’s official website.
Friday, 17th February
Jack Rabbit Slims, Perth
Saturday, 18th February
Hyperfest, Midland
Thursday, 23rd February
Anu Bar, Canberra
Friday, 24th February
Oxford Art Factory, Sydney
Saturday, 25th February
Small Ballroom, Newcastle
Thursday, 2nd March
Uni Bar, Wollongong
Friday, 3rd March
Fat Controller, Adelaide
Saturday, 4th March
The Toff, Melbourne
Thursday, 9th March
Sol Bar, Maroochydore
Friday, 10th March
Beach Hotel, Byron Bay
Saturday, 11th March
The Foundry, Brisbane
Sunday, 12th March
Coolangatta Hotel, Coolangatta
Friday, 17th March
Republic Bar, Hobart
Saturday, 18th March
Club 54, Launceston
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