Tell us about your music. How did you develop your sound?

I was really fortunate when it came to developing my sound. My publishers put me into a bunch of sessions with different producers so I had the chance to write a lot of different styles of music, but nothing quite fit the direction to take. I met Dave very organically without any pressures of having to write the perfect song. We just immediately clicked and our musical connection works so perfectly for both of us. 

What’s your greatest source of inspiration for making music?

It sounds really cheesy but I've gotta say hurt and hard times have gotta be the best source. Music is like therapy to me so when I've got to deal with something difficult, writing music is the best outlet. It inspires me to write happy and sad songs. Also, listening to artists like Joni Mitchell and Jeff Buckley who really know how to put their stories down in song really inspires me to do the same.

What can punters expect from a JEFFE live show?

For the time being it's just me, my guitar, keyboard and sample pad. I've been working on my dance moves a bit too! I try to bring as many elements as possible into my set. I'm actually in the process of trying to incorporate saxophone into the set as well. But hopefully, it won't be long until I can afford a band! 

What’s the best advice you’ve been given and who was it from?

It does get thrown around a lot but the saying "stay true to yourself" really does go a long way. I can't really pinpoint exactly who has said that to me, it's been a few people along the way, but it's definitely something I always keep tucked away in the back of my mind. If something doesn't feel right you've really got to question it because it's really bloody easy to be led astray these days. 

What Australian track would you play to cheer up someone who was crying?

Definitely "It's Nice To Be Alive" by Ball Park Music. A very upbeat, fun song and it immediately puts you in a good mood!

What Australian track would you play to someone to make them cry?

It's funny, I listen to so much sad music but I'm struggling to think of one!! There is a song that makes me cry... it's a song by Jack Carty called Travelling Shoes. It tells a beautiful story of lost love, you hold on to every word throughout the song and by the end of it you hit the punch line and it's just heartbreaking! 

You’re the DJ at a party. The dance floor is pumping. What Australian track do you put on next?

Oooo, that's a tough one! I'd probably play 'High' by Peking Duk Ft. Nicole Millar... it's groovy, sexy, and fun. The kind of song where you can have groups of mates going for it on the D-Floor but then the loved-up kids making out in the corner. But there are so many fun Aus artists that I'd want to play! 

What was the last local gig you went to? How was it?

Well, I've just started a tour with No Mono so the most recent was the first show in Brisbane. It was ahhhhmazing! Eliott played after me and she is just incredible! Her voice is like velvet and her songs are so heartfelt. No Mono were absolutely insane. Tom has the most uniquely beautiful voice and the crowd had such a good vibe. I'm so stoked to be touring with such talented artists! 

Tell us about the bands or people in the Sydney music community that inspire you.

I'm really loving Angie Mcmahon, her songwriting is great and she's got such a deep and soulful voice. I really like Mallrat as well, she's got a really interesting way with words and just an all-round cool vibe. 

What are your plans for 2018?

For now, I'll be on this tour with No Mono... once that is done I'll be heading back over to the UK for a couple of shows then back to Aus in December for another potential tour which is currently in the works (more info on that will come out later).