INTERVIEW: That Clare

Teesside’s That Clare’s new single Just Because, released on 1st August, takes no prisoners. Embracing technology and synths, it’s a bold move away from Clare’s previously folk punk material. “Electronic music and post-punk sounds have always been a big influence,” reflects Clare. “I’ve been itching to get that vibe into my music. That’s not to say I’m turning my back on the acoustic. I also have a real admiration for the early punk pioneers and guitar sounds of the early 70s.”

Just Because is a full-frontal attack on the bigoted politics and small-mindedness that is transphobia. Clare’s softly-spoken distorted vocal is full of disgust as it turns to spitting venom. But does she, as a trans artist, feel pigeonholed as a political artist? “I feel irritated that minorities are labelled as activists for speaking up.” Clare confirms. “But you either do nothing and feel the full effects of oppression or you stand up and say: ‘I’m not putting up with this.’ The sense of injustice for trans rights to racism to mental health, disability needs, healthcare and financial injustice; none of it is about to be resolved anytime soon. I’m not planning a pure pop song right now,” laughs Clare.

Throughout history, political artists from Bob Dylan to Bob Vylan have been critically lauded –and occasionally vilified –for speaking out about world injustices. Does Clare feel that music has the power to change? “Music has power to influence change to a point. Many people don’t latch onto the message first, they like a song’s vibe then start to take in the message,” explains Clare. “Punk is about the push back. It must have power. Look at what’s happening right now with government reaction when bands dare to speak about genocide or trans rights. Music reflects society and introduces another viewpoint or cultural influence that you might not typically experience, so it can influence positive change, even if it doesn’t make the change directly.”

Attacks on trans people have been relentless recently and many in the community are feeling a sense of hopelessness, so does Clare share that sentiment? “I absolutely do not feel hopeless. I do feel that once you identify with being the scapegoat, you start to see how it’s applied to all minorities. From immigrants to queer folks, the disabled, to race. Some days I get overwhelmed. Being creative is an outlet for those feelings of hopelessness and anger. But joy too. Being visible is a great thing to do for your community, sticking two fingers in the air and saying ‘I’m here, we’re here, we always have been and we always will be.’ It’s also nice to embrace the joy of who you are, who you’ve become, how far you’ve come. That’s got to offer some hope hasn’t it? I think so.”

That Clare is an artist who isn’t going to let negativity or boundaries, be it social or musical, stand in her way. So what does her future hold? “My debut album SOCIAL KONSTRUKT is nearing completion. I’m aiming to release that this year. It’s very political, and I make no apologies for that,” she laughs. “I’ll certainly be doing more experimental music. I’m looking forward to performing at Last Train Home in Darlington and have just launched my website. I won’t stop writing and recording. I have a lot to say!”