Lola Marsh: Discover the Hypnotic Electronic-Rock Duo Redefining Indie Pop
For those enchanted by the dreamy soundscapes and captivating vocals of artists like Lana Del Rey, prepare to find your next musical obsession in Lola Marsh. Hailing from the vibrant city of Tel Aviv, this acclaimed band is fronted by the mesmerizing vocalist Yael Shoshana Cohen and multi-instrumentalist Gil Landau. Together, they weave a rich tapestry of sound, blending hypnotic vocals with lush, electronic-rock instrumentation to create an atmospheric and deeply emotional sonic experience that resonates with listeners worldwide. Their unique blend of indie-pop sensibilities, cinematic scope, and heartfelt lyrics has quickly positioned them as a standout act in the global music scene, earning them a dedicated following and critical praise for their refreshing approach to contemporary music.
On the eve of a significant U.S. tour, with highly anticipated performances at events like the renowned South by Southwest (SXSW) festival, the dynamic duo of Gil Landau and Yael Shoshana Cohen sat down for an exclusive interview. Their conversation flows with the easy rhythm of old friends, each effortlessly completing the other’s sentences, sharing anecdotes and insights in perfect tandem. We delved into the heart of their creative process, explored the serendipitous origins of their distinctive sound, and uncovered the myriad adventures and challenges that have shaped their journey from Tel Aviv to international stages. This intimate chat offers a rare glimpse into how the magic of Lola Marsh is made, revealing the passion, camaraderie, and artistic vision that underpin their remarkable artistry. Fans eager to catch their captivating live performances can check out the schedule for their shows, including those at SXSW, here.
The Genesis of Lola Marsh: A Serendipitous Spark in Tel Aviv
Every great band has an origin story, and Lola Marsh’s began with a series of serendipitous encounters that eventually ignited a powerful creative partnership. Yael Shoshana Cohen humorously recounts their initial meeting: “We always say we met at Gil’s birthday party, but we actually met before.” Their true first encounter was through a mutual friend one memorable night, where they casually bonded over an eclectic mix of music. “We met through a mutual friend one night and we played Foo Fighters and Disney songs together,” Yael reminisces, a testament to their diverse musical tastes and playful approach to early collaborations. Gil playfully interjects, “Yael is a Disney geek,” highlighting her penchant for whimsical melodies, an influence that subtly weaves its way into some of Lola Marsh’s more enchanting and nostalgic tracks.
Yael fondly recalls a particular moment from that initial, casual jam session: “I remember we played ‘Baby Mine’ from Dumbo. We had a songbook.” While it was undoubtedly a “cute night” filled with musical exploration and shared laughter, Gil admits that the true click hadn’t yet happened. “But we didn’t click then. It was just for fun…”, he states, indicating that the creative alignment needed a bit more time to fully form. It wasn’t until a few months later, at Gil’s birthday celebration, that the undeniable spark finally ignited. “It was a cute night. But at Gil’s birthday, we really clicked,” Yael confirms, marking the true inception of their creative partnership. This second encounter proved to be the catalyst that transformed casual jamming into the serious pursuit of forming a band, laying the foundational bricks for what would become the distinctive sound of Lola Marsh.
Crafting a Name with Character: The Story Behind “Lola Marsh”
Choosing a band name can often be as challenging as writing the music itself, and for Lola Marsh, it was a collective effort fueled by spontaneous brainstorming and a desire for a moniker that truly resonated. “We just sat with a bunch of friends [and came up with the phrase],” Yael explains, underscoring the organic and collaborative nature of their early days. Gil emphasizes the importance of a name that simply felt right: “We needed a name, and it sounded good! We liked it.” This gut feeling proved to be key in selecting a name that would stick.
Interestingly, the name underwent a slight but significant evolution to ensure clarity and improve its auditory appeal. “It was originally ‘Marsch’ with a ‘C’,” Gil reveals, noting the initial spelling. However, practical considerations quickly led to a change. Yael clarifies the reasoning: “But people called us ‘Lola March,’ so we put in the ‘S’.” This adjustment ensured the correct pronunciation and solidified their identity, preventing any confusion. The name “Lola Marsh” often sparks curiosity, with people frequently mistaking it for a specific person or a geographical location, adding an air of mystery and intrigue that perfectly complements their enigmatic and cinematic sound. “I don’t remember who suggested it,” Yael muses, further highlighting the spontaneous and almost accidental beauty of how their band’s name came into being, embodying the band’s whimsical yet grounded spirit.
A Kaleidoscope of Sounds: The Diverse Influences Shaping Lola Marsh’s Music
Lola Marsh’s distinctive musical palette is a testament to the diverse range of artists and experiences that inspire Gil and Yael, allowing them to forge a sound that is uniquely their own. Their music is a beautiful fusion, drawing from various genres and eras to create something truly fresh, captivating, and deeply layered. Yael’s influences are often deeply personal and evocative. “Artists and things around…my grandmother,” she begins, hinting at a connection to personal history and emotional depth that informs her songwriting. She quickly names iconic figures like Sufjan Stevens, praising him as a profound inspiration: “We love him and are inspired by him.” The intricate storytelling, orchestral arrangements, and experimental folk leanings of Stevens clearly resonate with the band’s own expansive sound. She also cites legendary jazz vocalist Nina Simone, whose raw emotion and powerful delivery likely inform Yael’s own expressive and compelling vocal style, alongside the harmonious, introspective folk-rock of Fleet Foxes, whose lush arrangements and poignant lyrics echo in Lola Marsh’s soundscapes.
Gil, on the other hand, reveals a broader evolutionary path for the band’s influences, demonstrating their willingness to grow and adapt their sound. “The bands were different when we started,” he explains. “At first, it was back to the roots, like Elvis, Moody Blues…” This foundational appreciation for classic rock, melodic structures, and timeless songwriting provides a strong backbone to their music. As they progressed and evolved, their sonic landscape expanded significantly: “then Bon Iver, MGMT, LCD Soundsystem.” The atmospheric indie-folk of Bon Iver, with its ethereal textures and intimate lyricism, the quirky synth-pop of MGMT, known for its infectious energy and experimental approach, and the dance-punk grooves of LCD Soundsystem, famous for their rhythmic drive and genre-bending artistry, all illustrate Lola Marsh’s willingness to experiment and incorporate electronic and more contemporary indie sounds. Gil concludes by summarizing their eclectic approach: “We took a little bit from each one,” emphasizing their method of blending seemingly disparate elements into a cohesive and innovative whole. This rich blend of nostalgic reverence for music history and bold embrace of modern innovation is precisely what gives Lola Marsh its unique character, allowing them to craft songs that feel both familiar and refreshingly new, always pushing the boundaries of indie pop and electronic rock.
“Remember Roses”: An Album to Savor from Start to Finish
Lola Marsh’s debut album, Remember Roses, released in 2017, quickly garnered critical acclaim and resonated deeply with fans, becoming one of those rare musical collections that truly demands to be listened to in its entirety. The interviewer expresses this sentiment perfectly, stating, “Remember Roses is one of those rare albums that I really enjoy from start to finish, so thank you for that.” This highlights the album’s remarkable coherence and its ability to maintain listener engagement throughout its duration, a testament to the band’s meticulous songwriting and production.
Both Gil and Yael respond with genuine gratitude, clearly touched by the appreciation for the emotional depth they poured into the record. Gil offers a simple, heartfelt, “Thank you so much!” while Yael provides a concise yet potent description of its essence: “Thank you. It’s a dramatic, romantic album!” This encapsulates the beautiful duality of the album’s appeal – its profound ability to evoke both intense, almost theatrical emotion and a sense of wistful, cinematic romance. From the melancholic introspection of tracks like “In the Morning” to the more upbeat, yet still atmospheric “Wishing Girl,” Remember Roses takes listeners on an evocative journey, solidifying Lola Marsh’s reputation for crafting cohesive, heartfelt, and beautifully produced music. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a world both deeply personal and universally resonant, filled with stories of love, longing, and self-discovery. The album’s intricate arrangements, Yael’s distinctive vocal delivery, and the thematic continuity make it a truly immersive listening experience, inviting repeated listens to uncover new layers of meaning and emotion.
The Allure of “Wishing Girl” and the Whistle Debate
Among the standout tracks on Remember Roses is the infectious “Wishing Girl,” a song that instantly captivated the interviewer and many listeners alike. “When I heard ‘Wishing Girl,’ I knew I was going to love it. I’m a sucker for anything with whistling in it,” the interviewer enthusiastically shares. The simple, yet incredibly effective, whistling motif in the song is a signature element that adds to its undeniable charm, catchiness, and whimsical allure, making it a memorable earworm.
This revelation sparks a lighthearted and amusing debate between Gil and Yael about who exactly is responsible for the iconic whistle within the track. Gil laughs, jokingly responding, “Okay, next album will just be…” implying an album entirely comprised of whistling tracks, much to the delight of the interviewer. Yael asserts her lifelong affinity for the art: “I’ve loved to whistle since I was a child.” Gil confirms her talent and mastery: “She’s the best.” However, he then delivers a playful twist, revealing the unexpected truth: “Actually, on this track, it’s me whistling.” A genuinely surprised Yael questions, “Really? It was not me?” Gil clarifies the recording process and their artistic decision-making: “Well, we recorded you, but–” to which Yael humorously interjects, completing his thought with a touch of self-deprecating humor, “–It was too good.” Gil concludes, explaining their creative direction: “We wanted something more rusty.” This amusing exchange not only highlights their playful dynamic and deep friendship but also reveals the meticulous attention to detail that goes into their sound, even for seemingly simple elements like a whistle, which was carefully chosen and crafted to achieve a specific emotional texture and raw authenticity that ultimately defines the track’s unique character.
The Lola Marsh Live Experience: Beyond a Standard Concert
A Lola Marsh concert is far more than just a standard musical performance; it’s an immersive experience meticulously designed to transport the audience into a unique, dreamlike world. Yael vividly describes their artistic approach to stagecraft and atmosphere: “We have a suitcase full of flowers and [we set it up] like a garden. We create an atmosphere so that when a person comes to our show, he’ll forget he’s in a club.” This meticulous attention to visual detail and set design immediately sets a whimsical and intimate tone, transforming any venue into an enchanting space that feels miles away from typical club environments. The visual storytelling begins even before the first note is played, drawing the audience into their narrative.
Gil elaborates further on the narrative aspect and dynamic flow of their shows: “We’re trying to tell a story during the show, both visually and with the setlist. It’s very dynamic and connected. It doesn’t feel like a regular concert.” This profound commitment to storytelling ensures that each song flows seamlessly into the next, building a cohesive emotional arc for the entire performance rather than presenting a mere collection of individual tracks. The band aims to engage all senses, utilizing thoughtful lighting, captivating visuals, and a carefully curated setlist to create a continuous journey for the audience. When asked about their intention to transport the audience, Gil quickly adds, “And ourselves,” underscoring that this immersive experience is as much for the performers as it is for the listeners. This shared journey allows the band members to fully embody the narrative and emotional landscape of their music, creating an authentic and deeply personal connection with everyone in the room. This dedication to crafting a holistic, sensory experience is what truly sets a Lola Marsh live show apart, leaving a lasting impression on all who attend.
Touring with Milky Chance: A Memorable European Adventure
Lola Marsh had the invaluable opportunity to support the popular German duo Milky Chance on a European tour, an experience both Gil and Yael recall with great fondness and appreciation. Yael describes their tourmates enthusiastically, highlighting the positive personal dynamic: “They’re cool people. Very fun to be around. And they have an amazing crowd.” This positive interpersonal connection undoubtedly contributed significantly to a successful tour, making the often-grueling schedule and demands of life on the road much more enjoyable and creatively fulfilling.
Gil echoes her sentiments, emphasizing the professional benefits and smooth collaboration: “It was a really good experience for us. Being support isn’t always easy, but they made it so much fun.” Support acts often face the challenge of capturing an audience that primarily came to see the headliner, but Milky Chance’s receptive and engaged fanbase proved to be a fertile ground for Lola Marsh to introduce their unique sound. Yael further elaborates on the tangible success of this tour: “The crowds were really loving and after the shows, I went to the merch stand and talked to people who discovered us and bought the CD. So we gained some new fans!” This direct interaction with newfound listeners and the organic discovery of their music are invaluable for an emerging band, demonstrating the powerful impact of positive tour dynamics and an appreciative audience in expanding a band’s reach, fostering new connections, and building their loyal community of fans across new territories.
Adventures on the Road: Unique Venues and Unforgettable Mishaps
Life on tour for any band is a kaleidoscope of experiences, never dull, and Lola Marsh has certainly amassed a rich collection of memorable moments, ranging from performing in extraordinary locations to navigating unexpected dramas and discovering the kindness of strangers. These stories add depth to their journey, highlighting the resilience and humor required for a life of constant travel.
A Stage on Water: The Swiss Boat Concert Experience
Among the most unique venues they’ve played, Yael immediately recalls a truly picturesque and unconventional setting: “A boat in Switzerland! The stage is on a boat.” Gil adds more captivating detail, painting a vivid picture of the scene: “There’s the boat, and the river–” with Yael completing the idyllic image: “–And the people are sitting on the stairs on the banks.” This created an unusual and charming dynamic, as Gil explains the logistical challenge: “So in order to get to the stage, we had to take a little boat.” The entrance itself became part of the spectacle, adding an element of grand arrival, as Yael recounts, “We were on this boat and people were clapping [as we went by]!” Performing on water presented its own unique set of challenges, particularly the physical distance from the audience. “On the stage, it was challenging, because they were far. I felt I needed to do bigger moves,” Yael shares, describing the need to adapt their performance style and amplify their stage presence to connect with distant viewers. Despite the logistical hurdles and the demand for heightened energy, the sheer beauty and novelty of the experience left a lasting impression on the band: “It was beautiful,” Yael concludes, a testament to the enchanting and unforgettable nature of such a singular gig.
Touring Drama: Passports Lost, Borders Closed, and Unexpected Kindness
No tour is without its share of logistical nightmares and comical mishaps, and Lola Marsh has certainly had their fair share of unexpected twists. Gil vividly recalls a moment of pure panic and quick thinking: “Actually, totally. Our drummer lost his passport in Vienna, Austria, and we had to go to Paris.” The situation was urgent and required a rather direct, yet humorous, send-off: “We were like…good luck with that! [Laughs] He managed. He took a bus to Paris.” Yael admits the emotional difficulty of the decision: “It was hard to leave him behind,” but Vienna is “Not a terrible place to be trapped, though,” the interviewer notes, adding a touch of humor to the stressful situation, acknowledging the beauty of the city as a silver lining.
Another border-crossing incident involved their keyboardist, leading to yet another travel conundrum. Gil recounts, “Then the last time we came to the U.S. from Canada, all of us passed immigration, except our keyboardist.” Yael elaborates on the frantic pace of travel and the sudden halt: “The plane was late and we had half an hour to run to our connection. And immigration closed right after me! He was literally standing behind me, and they were like, ‘Nope, closed.'” The unfortunate band member found himself “Trapped in Toronto,” as Gil states, caught between two countries. Luckily, “the show wasn’t the same day,” Yael whispers conspiratorially, adding with a smile, “It was pretty funny,” in retrospect, showcasing their ability to find humor in challenging situations.
Beyond the administrative dramas, physical injuries also make their way into the touring chronicles. Gil recalls a particularly painful incident: “Touring in Europe, our guitarist put his hand in the car door and our sound engineer slammed the door by accident. He played the whole tour with a bandage,” demonstrating remarkable resilience and dedication. Perhaps one of the most heartwarming tour stories, however, involves Yael experiencing the kindness of strangers when her suitcase went missing. “Once, my suitcase got lost, and people from the audience in Poland gave me dresses,” she shares, recounting a moment of unexpected generosity. “We got to the show and we went to H&M and it was so hot. I wore a dress and during the show, I told the audience it wasn’t my usual dress…and after the show, two girls brought me clothes for the rest of the tour! That was amazing.” These anecdotes collectively highlight the challenges, humor, and heartwarming human connections that truly define life on the road for Lola Marsh, painting a vivid picture of the highs and lows of being a touring musician.
Looking Ahead: Dream Collaborations, SXSW, and the Next Album
With a successful tour under their belts and exciting opportunities constantly on the horizon, Lola Marsh continues to look forward, dreaming of future collaborations, embracing new experiences like SXSW, and diligently working towards their next musical chapter. Their journey is one of continuous growth, artistic exploration, and an unyielding commitment to their craft.
Dream Collaborations and SXSW Excitement
When asked about an artist they would still love to tour with, Yael’s answer is immediate and unequivocal: “Sufjan Stevens! Easy.” This choice powerfully reaffirms their deep admiration for Stevens’ intricate songwriting, profound lyrical depth, and atmospheric artistry, suggesting a potential creative synergy that fans would undoubtedly cherish. Such a collaboration would bridge different facets of indie music, creating a truly unique tour experience.
The band was also anticipating their first-ever performance at South By Southwest (SXSW), one of the most influential music festivals and conferences globally, known for launching countless careers. Yael expresses a relatable mix of anticipation and nerves: “We’re excited and intimidated by it! We’ll jump into the water and see what happens.” This sentiment perfectly captures the thrill and inherent challenge of performing at such a high-profile, industry-heavy event, where they’d be showcasing their talent to a vast and diverse audience. Gil, with his characteristic optimism, adds a touch of confident assurance: “It’ll be good vibes,” reflecting the band’s strong belief in their ability to connect with new audiences and leave a lasting impression, even under pressure. SXSW represents a significant platform for Lola Marsh to not only showcase their unique sound to a broader international industry and fanbase but also to make crucial connections that can propel their career to new heights, further solidifying their place in the global music scene.
The Creative Crucible: Crafting the Next Album
Despite their demanding touring schedule and the constant movement of life on the road, the creative gears of Lola Marsh are always turning, continuously laying the groundwork for future projects. “Are you working on the next album yet?” the interviewer inquires, eager for news of new music. Gil confirms their ongoing efforts and outlines their dedicated process: “We’re writing and trying to have time for it! After this tour, we’re going to write and demo for two months. Hopefully we’ll start recording after the summer.” This timeline suggests a focused period of intense creativity and refinement, meticulously laying the groundwork for their eagerly awaited sophomore release.
Delving into their songwriting environment, Gil offers a personal glimpse into his creative sanctuary: “I’m usually in my home studio [in Tel Aviv]. Drinking lots of Turkish coffee. I love it.” This image of a quiet, focused space, fueled by a beloved and culturally significant beverage, paints a picture of concentrated artistry and routine that underpins his contributions. The songwriting process itself is a unique blend of individual inspiration and deeply collaborative synergy. “Both,” Gil answers when asked if they write songs separately and then combine them, or create together in the same room. “When both of us come to a meeting ready with any idea, we’ve done a bit of homework, so something good will probably happen. We listen to music, take a walk.” This combination of thoughtful preparation and spontaneous exploration in various settings is key to their dynamic creative flow.
Yael describes their unique creative connection as almost mystical and deeply intuitive: “It’s strange. It feels like this cosmic thing, that we have between us. Sometimes we don’t have any idea, and one of us will take an instrument and start playing, and suddenly we have a song. I’ll have watched a movie and I have an idea.” This organic, almost telepathic understanding allows them to tap into a shared creative wellspring, transforming everyday observations and fleeting inspirations into cohesive musical pieces. However, it’s not always smooth sailing, as Gil candidly admits the inevitable frustrations of the creative block: “One minute it’s like, shit, we have nothing, I hate writing, we don’t know what to do.” Yael, with a knowing sigh, playfully calls him “So dramatic,” highlighting their ability to find humor even in moments of creative despair. But these moments of frustration often give way to sudden breakthroughs: “Or it’s like, hey, that’s really good,” Gil concludes, emphasizing the rewarding aspect of their work. “That’s why I think it’s hard for us during tour. We have to focus,” he adds, highlighting the challenge of maintaining creative momentum and a clear mind amidst the constant demands and distractions of life on the road.
Introducing Lola Marsh: “She’s a Rainbow” – The Band’s DNA
For newcomers eager to discover the unique and captivating sound of Lola Marsh, Yael has a definitive and heartfelt recommendation. When asked, “If someone hasn’t heard you before, what song should they listen to first?”, she confidently and immediately responds, ““She’s a Rainbow.” It has our DNA, I think.” This track, with its shimmering melodies, Yael’s hauntingly beautiful and evocative vocals, and rich, intricate arrangements, truly serves as a perfect entry point into their musical universe. “She’s a Rainbow” encapsulates the band’s aesthetic and emotional depth, blending their signature dream-pop sensibilities with a compelling indie-rock edge. It offers a comprehensive taste of their artistic identity, inviting listeners into the enchanting and deeply atmospheric world of Lola Marsh, where every note and lyric contributes to a powerful emotional experience.
Beyond the Stage: Personal Passions and Inspirations
Finally, the conversation shifts to their lives outside of music, revealing the personal interests and passions that enrich their creative spirits and provide balance to their demanding artistic careers. “What are you passionate about outside of your work?” the interviewer asks, seeking a glimpse into their individual worlds.
Yael enthusiastically shares her love for movement and artistic expression: “I love to dance! But we don’t have much time…” This passion for dance likely informs her expressive stage presence and the fluid, rhythmic elements often found within Lola Marsh’s music. She also finds profound inspiration in visual storytelling and cinematic arts: “Watching movies. I loved Call Me by Your Name,” citing a critically acclaimed film known for its emotional depth and aesthetic beauty, which undoubtedly feeds into the cinematic quality and narrative scope of their songs. In a more unconventional and quirky hobby, Yael admits to “Scavenging for furniture on the street,” showcasing a creative eye for discovery, repurposing, and finding beauty in unexpected places, perhaps reflecting a broader artistic inclination to transform and reimagine.
Gil, on the other hand, describes a more introspective and contemplative set of interests, highlighting activities that promote peace and personal growth. “Chill with my friends. Drink coffee, meditate, read books.” These activities paint a picture of someone who values quiet reflection, intellectual nourishment, and meaningful social connections. He then reveals a surprising, yet endearing, recent discovery that highlights his openness to new experiences: “I just started Harry Potter for the first time. I finished the first book. Wow! It’s amazing.” This late-in-life dive into a beloved fantasy series speaks to a childlike wonder, a thirst for imaginative storytelling, and an openness to new experiences, even in literature. These personal passions, diverse as they are, undoubtedly contribute to the rich tapestry of experiences, emotions, and inspirations that Gil and Yael skillfully weave into the captivating and multifaceted sound of Lola Marsh, making their music resonate with a depth born from genuine life experiences and curiosities.
To keep up with the latest news, tour dates, and music from this fascinating and ever-evolving duo, be sure to visit Lola Marsh’s official website and follow them on social media platforms. Their journey is one of captivating music, adventurous touring, and an undeniable creative bond that promises many more enchanting releases and unforgettable performances to come, solidifying their status as a compelling force in the global indie music landscape.