Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Flawes

The summer of 2015 will forever be a highlight in the careers of vocalist and keyboardist Josh Carruthers (aka JC), guitarist Freddie Edwards, and drummer Josh Hussey (aka Huss). It was the year the trio came together to form the indie pop band Flawes. Since then, it’s been a meteoric rise to the top with spine-tingling singles like “Don’t Wait for Me,” “Don’t Count Me Out,” and “When We Were Young,” as well as countless shows and festival appearances. They’ve gathered all of their experiences into their new full-length record, Highlights, and Pop Culturalist caught up with the guys to chat all about it.

PC: How did you all discover your passion for music?
Huss: I think it came from being around the music my parents listened to growing up. As you start to play an instrument, your curiosity and passion grow. Then, you’re hooked.

Freddie: My dad is in the music industry, so I was brought up around it. I remember watching him perform with his band when I was young thinking that’s what I want to do.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your careers?
Huss: We all have very different backgrounds in terms of influence or musical taste, which is actually really great because we’re always showing each other new bands and music. For me personally, the drummer Travis Barker was someone I always idolized growing up. I think still to this day, his diversity as a drummer and producer is amazing.

PC: What’s been the key to the band’s success?
JC: Alongside a lot of hard work and patience, I would probably say learning from our mistakes. The band name Flawes comes from the idea of embracing your imperfections or flaws. We want to spread the idea that your flaws are what make you who you are!

PC: You just released Highlights. What inspired the album?
JC: I draw my inspiration from many places: previous relationships, relationships and problems friends are going through, or sometimes it’s as simple as overhearing a phrase on the tube and creating a whole imaginary story around that.

PC: If you had to choose one song off Highlights that best encompasses you all as a band, what would it be and why?
Freddie: I think it would have to be “Take This Slow.” The song is all about trying to stop and appreciate the moment more, and I think that’s been a valuable lesson for the three of us throughout this process.

PC: As we look ahead to the rest of 2020, what does the year hold for you all?
JC: As much touring as humanly possible across the summer. We’re always writing new music too, so maybe some new releases for your ears!

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
JC: Jamie Cullum

Freddie: Machine Gun Kelly

Huss: Bring Me The Horizon

PC: First album you bought?
JC: The Offspring—Americana

Freddie: Jimi Hendrix—Bold As Love

Huss: Linkin Park—Hybrid Theory

PC: First concert you attended?
JC: Green Day

Freddie: Status Quo

Huss: The Ordinary Boys

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
JC: Jeff Buckley’s Grace. The pure vocal performance still leaves me speechless.

Freddie: Jimi Hendrix’s Bold As Love. It started my passion for guitar playing!

Huss: Fall Out Boy’s Take This To Your Grave. I used to play along to this album in my bedroom in high school. Always brings back some good memories of dreaming big.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
JC: Huddersfield John Smith’s Stadium

Freddie: Wembley Arena

Huss: Brixton Academy

PC: A must-have on the road?
JC: A kettle and a bottle of whiskey.

Freddie: Good headphones and running shoes.

Huss: My headphones and a nice clean pair of socks.

To keep up with Flawes, follow them on Twitter and Instagram. Pick up or stream Highlights today.