A Quick Chat with Carl Riseley

Since Australian Idol ended last year, Carl Riseley has hit the ground running, parlaying the fan-base and industry credibility he earned, by making it to the Top 12 on the show, into a record deal and The Rise, his debut album which is out now through Universal. About to embark on a national tour Carl took time out to join us on StageNoise.com for a Quick Chat.

During your time on Idol you became known for your unique interpretations of classic songs. How important was it for you to make this album your own and not simply “just another swing album” in what is already a crowded marketplace?
I really don't feel this album can be regarded as just another swing album or another “just anything” album.Basically I chose songs that, in their original form - I hold quite close me.Then changing them to the format I love and to the way I know my Idol fans would expect of me.

There are so many good songs to choose from in this songbook. How did you pick the final line-up?
All of the songs I picked have a strong connection to my past, holding strong memories.All of these are songs I grew up with.

You've been called Australia's Harry Connick Jr, so who are your musical influences?
I feel I have quite a diverse range of influences, some far from jazz as well. Such as Stevie Wonder, Kool and the Gang, Donny Hathaway, The Rat Pack and Sting just to name a few.

Do you think those influences can be heard in your work?
Ha!! I honestly couldn't tell you...

You were in the Navy, do you think any of the lessons or discipline you learnt there – aside from being a good trumpet player in the Navy band – have helped you in your musical career?
Oh definitely!!But mainly just for life in general. Joining the Navy was the best career move I ever made, they do everything from scream at you for being late to not folding your undies properly!!I now couldn't bear being late for anything.(I've let the undies thing go!)

What does the future hold for you?
I guess I'm really looking forward to actually getting out there and touring the album.Hopefully there will be an opportunity to travel international with it as well!

You can check out the video for Carl’s debut single here.