Meet Mr Oscar Robertson, London based multi instrumentalist
BLOOM recently had the pleasure of visiting Oscar Robertson in his studio in East London. From a passion sparked by a legendary big band concert to his evolution as a musician with a sound that evokes a sense of nostalgia, and reflection, Oscar shares his journey with us. Known for his dynamic approach to creating music and his ability to play multiple instruments, he gives us a glimpse into his creative process and inspirations. As he prepares to release his double LP and embark on a tour, Oscar opens up about life in and out of the studio, his favourite spots in London, and what the future holds for solo project SHOLTO.
Can you talk us through your journey as a musician, where did the passion start and what encouraged you to make it your full time profession?
My parents took me to see a Buddy Rich Big Band memorial concert, and I became totally transfixed by watching the drummer. He had his own podium, and it was so visual and bombastic. I was instantly hooked. I also got really into soundtracks at a young age. Getting the CDs of all these films, both new and old, really helped me dive deep into different genres early on. It was also a huge social thing for me. Never feeling like I fit in at school, as soon as I found music, I felt accepted—like I was speaking a secret language that others could relate to. It snowballed from there. I became laser-focused, and the more people I met who did music, the more inspired I became. At a certain point, it stopped feeling like a choice and more like an acceptance that this is what I should do. I never really tried to do anything else once I realised how much I loved it, and I feel lucky to be able to do this full time.
I am predominantly a drummer, but since I was exposed to a lot of different music from a young age, I feel like I picked up other instruments just by watching other people play. I believe drummers have the best view in the house. From the back, you see it all and take the most in. I really had no formal training—just time spent behind the piano, guitar, etc until I started to recognize the patterns and shapes. I never intended to play other instruments; I just wanted to be able to communicate my ideas. I usually start by writing string lines or melodies, or with some chords on a Wurlitzer (the most inspiring instrument). It's different every time, but I often get a simple melody in my head, which I then orchestrate for the strings and build everything else around that.
There is a sense of nostalgia when listening to your music, described as a warm array of colours and euphoric sentimentality. What do you imagine the perfect location or situation for someone to be in when listening to your music?
What I like about instrumental music is that it sets a mood while allowing the listener to paint their own picture, without lyrics dictating how they should feel or where they should be. I like to think my music is calming and hopeful, but sometimes with an undercurrent of sadness. I believe all things beautiful have a touch of sadness. I imagine my music being listened to mainly in nature—it doesn’t feel particularly urban to me. It’s my escape from being stuck in a claustrophobic city. It feels more widescreen, something to be enjoyed on a car journey with a nice view.
Onto fashion - you look great in the Bloom Western Belt by the way. What is your go to outfit for autumn and are there any brands you are excited about at the moment?
I’m loving the belt! I’ve always liked western shirts and similar styles, but to be honest, the older I get, the less I follow fashion. When I was younger, I used to really try, wearing a lot of '60s-inspired stuff. Now, I spend more time in the studio and just want to be comfortable. My friend Dan started a shirt brand called PIKOL, made from old tablecloths, and they’re amazing and unique. I wear them a lot. You’ll usually find me in a purple Adidas tracksuit, a PIKOL shirt, some orthopaedic shoes, and a Bloom belt ;)
Your favourite coffee shop, restaurant and pub in London?
My favourite boozer is probably between the Duke Of Wellington in Haggerston and The Palm Tree in Mile End.
Campania is a charming restaurant on Columbia road.
I spend a lot of time In Mare Street Market, purely because it’s near my Studio, but it kind of has it all. Good coffee, food, drinks, record shop, hairdressers and a good chilled atmosphere during the week.
What does the future hold for Mr Oscar Robertson?
I am about to release a double Lp (26 tracks) on the 15th November of my own project under the name SHOLTO. I’m also about to embark on a pretty hefty tour with the dance band Confidence Man. And I have various projects upcoming in the studio.
Follow Oscar on Instagram , Bandcamp & Spotify