Bambie Thug - Cathexis
We spoke to East-London based artist Bambie Thug on their latest single ‘Careless’, and the inspiration, artistic process, and the unique essence that defines their upcoming EP ‘CATHEXIS’, alongside headline show this Halloween. Join us as we delve into the artistic narrative and creative landscape of Bambie Thug.
Bambie Thug photographed by © Becca Geden
Your music blends several genres such as hyper-pop, rock and trap with sharp lyrics, creating a unique and captivating sound. How did you develop your distinctive style, and what draws you to blending these genres?
I grew up in a very musical household where my mother had a diverse taste in music, ranging from classical and jazz to musicals, pop, rock, and country. My sisters and I would often rewrite songs from musicals and stage full productions for our family. I remember we rewrote Olivers ‘food glorious food’ song into ‘shoes glorious shoes’ .The story line followed a old shoemaker (me) Olive Anders, his cheating wife and a supervillain called Chiquita Banana. In school, I had a knack for rewriting scripts for performances I was involved in, I physically couldn't hold back. I always had to have a creative input. I was an annoying kid…
Although I had always written songs, they were mostly folk music starting off, and I hadn't fully explored song structuring or rapping or anything other than brain vomit. In my first year devoting my time to get into the industry I took it upon myself to homeschool and dedicated a year to writing two to three songs per day. I wanted to break free from the mold I felt pressured to fit into at the time. I did a lot of things I was told I should be doing at the start of my journey but I wanted to be more than just a pretty voice. That is 5 years ago now.
When I finally embarked on my Bambie Thug project in 2021, I didn't want to confine myself to one specific genre. As a songwriter, I feel drawn to explore various genres because each one has unique elements that make it great. I believe in creating music that truly resonates with me, and I don't want to limit myself by labeling my style. Fortunately, I have had the opportunity to work with producers who also embrace versatility and dislike being confined to specific genres. While I don't usually reference other artists in the studio, I love to experiment and play with different sounds. I mostly listen to podcasts these days so my music in the studio really is just what level my brain has logged into on the day.
My life experiences and Irish heritage have shaped my sharp tongue and artistic expression. As an artist, I believe in embracing evolution and not being discouraged by it. I see music as alchemy, and I am creating a space for myself to express that in whatever form it takes.
Your music and past projects like ‘HIGH ROMANCY’ explore themes of empowerment, love, and personal matters. Could you tell us about the inspiration behind this and the messages you aim to convey through your music?
The driving force behind all of the music I create is the empowerment of self, whether it be through vulnerability or resilience. My music serves as a shield, a protector, and a refuge for moments when I feel less strong within myself. Some of my songs represent the person I aspire to become. Songwriting has been a therapeutic outlet for me for as long as I can remember. It helps me untangle my emotions and serves as a powerful tool for reflection and healing.
My first EP, 'HIGH ROMANCY,' delved into occult lyricism, magic mushrooms, and sex magic. Witchcraft is a subject I am deeply passionate about and will continue to incorporate into my art. In that EP, I aimed to convey a more sexual and empowered narrative.
However, my upcoming EP, 'Cathexis,' takes a more vulnerable approach, exploring themes of heartbreak and self-reflection following a breakup. There's a big ole ballad in there which I believe to be one of the most beautiful songs I’ve ever written. Nevertheless, a couple of tracks still retain that signature Bambie Thug edge. After all, heartbreak is only a temporary…. BYE BOY
Your lyrics tackle topics that are deeply personal and sometimes unconventional. How do you find the courage to address subjects like mental health and occult symbolism in your music?
I think courage comes from being a trauma survivor who is determined to heal. It is important to be honest and unafraid when discussing our issues. Personally, it helps me feel more understood when I see someone openly discussing a situation or condition that has also affected me.
Therefore, I hope that by being transparent and authentic through my music and online presence, I can provide that same sense of connection for someone else.
The fear and shame surrounding discussions about mental health, in my opinion, are symptoms of societal attitudes. It can be intimidating to share these things with the world when we have been conditioned to believe that no one cares or wants to listen. I don't understand why the occult is still considered taboo; it is a personal religion and way of life that is filled with love, light, and has greatly helped me. The realm of the occult has always been deeply intertwined with my identity. With my Irish and Swedish roots, I have ties to both pagan and Norse history, which further strengthens my connection to magic. I will never hide who I truly am; it took me far too long to embrace my authentic self.
"CATHEXIS" your upcoming EP features tracks like ‘Careless’ and ‘I Know What You Did Last Summer' each with a distinct vibe. Could you share a bit about your creative process when developing these songs and the emotions you wanted to evoke?
I began writing Careless about a romance I had a couple of years ago over a YouTube 'type beat'. I completed the writing process after my most recent breakup, before taking it to the studio. My producer, Jake, was going through some beats he had made and stumbled upon one that fit perfectly. We quickly worked on it together and finished it. The song has a slightly bitter and sad tone, but the chorus serves as a reminder that sometimes it's not love, but rather another lesson. I kept allowing myself to fall for people who treated me poorly, and this song acknowledges that pattern.
Last summer, I wrote the song on the piano before bringing it to the studio with Jinka. We collaborated on it, leaving a space for Jinka, who came back with a powerful verse. We then sent it to Shurk at Comanavago to finalize.
Whenever I write a song, the only consistent part of my process is what I call 'the vortex.' The vortex is essentially when I have a beat on loop or a sequence of chords playing on the piano or guitar, and I go inward. I don't return to the room until I have mentally rehearsed the song a few times. Then, I spend some time with the recording, deciding if it's good as it is or if I need to add additional parts. To keep my mind focused, I do a lot of voice noting and writing when I'm not in the studio. I never intentionally try to evoke emotions with my songs; I simply use my music as a means to understand myself. A lot of the time I don't remember being in flow state, it's only through listening back that I realise the gravity of a song. Ultimately, I create music for myself first and foremost.
Your presence is captivating, from your music to your persona. How do you channel your charisma and energy into your performances, both on stage and in the studio?
Again, I believe that being Irish has a significant influence on my energy and charisma. I come from a place called Cork, which is affectionately known as 'The Rebel County,' and I think that may have subconsciously shaped my personality. When it comes to performing on stage, I can't quite explain what happens to me. I believe I tap into a higher version of myself because, in person, I am generally quite relaxed. However, when I step onto the stage, I transform into a different entity, with a whole new level of energy. I have undergone extensive training as a dancer for many years and have obtained an honors degree in musical theatre. This training involved intense sessions, typically 7-8 days a week from 9 am until 8 pm, or even longer on some days. As a result, I am hardwired for performance. In the studio, I often spend a significant amount of time lying down...so my energy is conserved...there's not half as much running around in the studio as there is on stage.
Through your music and message, you emphasise self-love and breaking free from societal constraints. What advice do you have for your listeners who might be struggling to embrace their true selves and navigate their own path?
My biggest advice would be to start training yourself to overcome the negative TED talk in your mind. We have been conditioned to think poorly of ourselves. Society discourages us from taking pride in our accomplishments, and ultimately, the only certainty in life is death. The only person who will always be with us is ourselves. Therefore, while we are alive we owe it to ourselves to persevere, love ourselves unconditionally, and prioritize our healing until we become our own biggest supporters. We only have one chance in these skin suits, and there is so much beauty to discover within ourselves if we have the courage to seek it.
Two phrases that help me when I feel myself falling into the trap of self-hatred are 'This too shall pass' and 'It is said that a tree cannot grow to heaven unless it is rooted in hell.'
Don't hide who you truly are or conform for anyone, you're never too old to make a change and never EVER forget the art of play. You got this!!
Finally, what do you think ‘SID’ stands for?
SWEET - IRIDESCENT - DREAMS
Bambie Thug’s new EP CATHEXIS is out October 13th.
Purchase tickets to their headline London show on October 31st here.
Follow Bambie Thug’s Instagram here.
