If you've seen New York nu-disco pioneers Hercules and Love Affair live, you'll know all about Nomi Ruiz. She commands the stage like a 22nd century Amazonian princess, mesmerising you with her towering presence as much as her honeyed soulful vocals. Nomi's new band is Jessica 6, who take the disco of Hercules and Love Affair and run with it into RnB, pop and psychadelic territory. Ahead of the release of their debut album 'See The Light', I caught up with Nomi to find out more about her new project.
How does the aesthetic of Jessica 6 differ from Hercules and Love Affair?
We work very intimately with one another. None of these songs or sounds could exists without each other.
How would you describe the sound of your album 'See The Light'?
I like how someone recently described it "Paradise Garage, New Jack Swing, Noir Pop and Disco Soul, all with a pronounced twist of rugged R&B"
Why did you choose to name your band after a character from the cult classic Logan's Run?
I think we liked the way the word rolled off of our tongues and also reminded us of Vanity 6 and Apollonia 6.
What's your favourite outfit to wear on stage, and where do you get your style inspiration from?
I love clothes that show off my silhouette, have movement and reflect light. My style is inspired by Stevie Nicks, Vanity 6 & Tina Turner
What is the ideal place you'd like your record to be played?
In Angelina Jolie's iPod
The video for 'White Horse' recalls a sexually-charged pre-Guiliani New York. Do you feel that that kind of New York still exists?
It does in me!
What's the most memorable gig you've ever played?
I remember playing at show in Zurich at a venue called Stall 6 and feeling like I was removed from my body. I was sweating and crawling, running up and down stairs and felt like we were all super connected for some reason.
Who are your biggest musical inspirations - for 'See The Light' and in general?
For me: Nico, Michael Jackson, Britney Spears, Silver Apples, Fleetwood Mac and Mary J. Blige
What was it like to be reunited with Antony Hegarty again on 'Prisoner of Love'?
It's what I have dreamed of ever since I first heard Antony's voice.
Your press release describes you as 'super talented 'hipsters''. How do you feel about that term and what does it mean to you?
I think it's rude and they should change it.
What's your sound of the summer for 2011?
'See The Light' by Jessica 6
If this album was a smell, what would it smell of?
Sweat and Coconuts
This interview was originally for attitude.co.uk
