Music / Spotlight
Irish Mellow: The multi-disciplinary creative pushing boundaries
Olamiposi Ayorinde is the multi-disciplinary creative behind Irish Mellow. Producer and creator, Olamiposi uses the project as an outlet for what he describes as his “jazz fusion, mellow grunge, punk rock, and soul-grime-infused introspective” sound.
Olamiposi released his third EP, Searching for Ghosts, last year and has performed at Inglefest, The Jazz Funk Soul Society, Ritual Union and this year’s 10th anniversary edition of Simple Things.
Bristol24/7 caught up with Olamiposi to discuss his creative identity, unique approach to sound and how Bristol has influenced his work.
is needed now More than ever
Where in Bristol are you based?
I live at the intersection of Montpelier, St Pauls, and St Werburghs. It offers me a distinctive living experience, surrounded by a lively mix of neighbourhoods, each with a unique atmosphere and culture.
How would you describe your music?
I’m currently going through a rebranding of sound as I focus on finally getting into the swing of releasing, as I’m relatively known for my live experiences.
My music is a fusion of diverse influences and genres, reflecting the tapestry of my heritage and experiences. Combining elements of jazz fusion, mellow grunge, punk rock, and soul-grime-infused introspective vibes, lyrically my sound is characterized by its social depth and emotional resonance.
I aim to present each song I perform as a sonic journey that invites listeners to explore themes of identity, belonging, and cultural heritage.
What influences your music?
My music is deeply shaped by a mix of personal experiences and cultural backgrounds. It reflects my journey of personal development, my cultural roots, and my exploration as an artist.
Bristol’s lively artistic scene, the countryside of Ireland I grew up in, the vibrant energy of my Nigerian heritage and my exposure to a diversity of people and experiences all play essential roles in forming my unique sound.
Interestingly, influences from existential philosophers like Albert Camus and Freidrich Nietzsche to the profound storytelling of Dostoyevsky have shaped my perspective on the absurdity and beauty of life.
What’s your favourite memory of your career so far?
One of my favourite career moments has to be my first full band gig at Harbourfest 2021: the golden sunset, an eager crowd, and the excitement of a perfect summer day.
Our music style was all about going with the flow; we were more of a jam band at the time. I told my bandmates, “Let’s improvise and trust in the magic we’re about to make.” And we really did!
That performance was a turning point for me. It taught me the joy of live shows, the connection with an audience, and the beauty of creating music on the spot. It showed me that I thrive on spontaneity, audience connection, and the belief in collaboration to make music an immersive experience.
What’s the response been to the music/art you’ve put out there so far?
The reaction to my music has been moving and exciting. More people are connecting with the themes of adventure, identity, and life in my songs.
What touches me are the individual stories from listeners who say my music has made a difference in their lives, offering comfort or inspiration. These moments highlight the power of music for me and push me to keep creating and connecting.
This year, I’m focusing on growing my online audience and regularly releasing music, which I haven’t been great at. While It’s time to give fans something they can enjoy anytime, enriching their experience with my music.
How have you found breaking into the music industry for grassroots artists?
Breaking into music as a grassroots artist has been tough but rewarding. My involvement in other creative outlets has given me a unique outlook. This variety has made music one of many ways I connect with people, reducing the usual industry pressure and helping my career grow.
Being active in scenes like parkour and sustainability communities has enriched my understanding of movement and the importance of art that mirrors community values and environmental consciousness.
This influence has not only shaped my music’s themes but also opened up opportunities for new collaborations and shows.
Olamiposi recently performed at this year’s 10th anniversary edition of Simple Things. photo: Darcy Sanchez-Mota Joao
Where’s your favourite place to perform and attend a gig in Bristol?
Strange Brew, right in the centre, is one of my top picks for both performing and watching live gigs. I enjoy the nature of the space and sound it can hold. They always give me something new to listen to, with enough space to flail about.
The Gallimaufry on Gloucester Road is worth mentioning. It plays a big part in the local music community. This venue really supports up-and-coming artists as well as well-known ones, giving people like me a chance to grow and connect with Bristol’s creative scene.
Who’s your dream artist to work with?
Hard to choose one! Envisioning collaborations with artists like Sega Bodega, Mount Kimbie, Flume, Skepta, Shygirl, Caroline Polachek, Bjork, Young Fathers, and Sevdaliza, fuels my creative ambitions.
These artists, each pioneering in their own right, span a dynamic spectrum from the experimental edges of electronic and grime to the ethereal realms of avant-pop, embodying the innovative spirit and depth I aspire to.
Their exploration and ability to redefine the musical experience align with my journey to push creative limits and explore the vast possibilities of sound and storytelling.
Who have you got your eye on at the moment?
Reconnecting to my production roots has reignited my passion for bass-heavy electronic and ethereal soundscapes with grimey punk undertones.
The likes of Glizz, Jim Legacy, Sassy 009, Rustie, Sam Gellaitry, and KwolleM stand out not just for their unique sounds but for their boldness in pushing the boundaries of what the music genres mentioned can be.
Their work, characterised by a blend of experimentation and emotional depth, resonates with my current creative direction and aspirations.
Are there any artists you think deserve more appreciation or acknowledgement?
Focusing on Bristol, highlighting a few artists and collectives underscores the vast synergies of sound being produced. While there’s a lot of energy in the scene, it often feels like everyone’s doing their own thing instead of working together.
Many artists I’ve seen share a drive to explore new sounds and express their unique perspectives through music. There’s a huge opportunity for more collaboration and community spirit, particularly when music can cost so much and artists feel more lonely than ever.
By creating more opportunities for artists to meet, brainstorm, and start joint projects, Bristol’s music scene could become even more vibrant, appreciated and united.
That’s my ambition – love & aspirations for the scene speaking more than anything.
What’s next for you?
I’m feeling a strong sense of purpose. Committing to finishing my music and getting it out into the world. This has been brewing for a while, and now it’s time to make it happen. A big part of this new chapter is also the formation of a new band for Irish Mellow.
Now is a key time for me, as I move from just experimenting to taking a more focused approach. Stepping into my potential, and continuing to learn and push my creative boundaries is important to me, whether that’s through education, travel, or exploring new musical styles and technologies.
This next step is about more than music: it’s about forming deeper connections with our listeners and being more involved in our communities.
With all I’ve learned and experienced, I’m ready for the new challenges and opportunities ahead.
Main photo: Christie Brown
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