Currently support Shane Filan on his UK tour, Ben Montague's been busy working on a new EP to show a different side to the artist many know for fantastic balladry.
We got the chance to put some questions to Ben about his career so far, what to expect from his new material and just what's ahead for him.
How would you describe yourself as an artist?
That is a tough one. I guess the easiest way to describe me would be a guy who loves to sing and write heartfelt pop songs with an upbeat and honest twist. I try and always be the same guy I am when sat in the studio writing the songs as I am when I’m on stage or when meeting fans after a show. I think that always being yourself is very important in this industry.
What can we expect from your new single for those who haven't heard it yet?
It is about trying to not lose the girl you love by being too busy in your own life and not being there to notice her enough. You wake up and she is gone! Kind of “if only I had been a better boyfriend...” sort of thing. Its all to easy to get too caught up in what we are doing and not notice the people around us and take them for granted.
How are you finding the experience of being on tour with Shane Filan?
Absolutely amazing! Best time of my life! All his fans are so wonderful and welcoming towards me. Shane is a legend and so are all the lads in his band. One big party really! I've been doing signings each night after the shows which has been amazing and its so great to meet all his wonderful fans.
What is it about music that you love?
I think because I write music I am lucky in that I get the excitement of buzzing and jumping around the studio when I think something sounds good... and then cos I get to perform it on the road I get to witness the reaction from people in the audience. And when it is a good reaction, there honestly is no feeling like it! It’s just incredible!
If you could choose to collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?
I would love to work with a female artist like Adele or Emeli Sande. I think they are both lyrical geniuses and write straight form the heart... something I try and do. Plus their vocals are beautiful.
How difficult would you say it is to break into the music industry?
Depends on what you want from it I guess? But generally yes it is hard. You have to just keep going. Every knock back makes you learn but you have to pick yourself up and dust yourself off and move on. I think you just have to do whatever it takes and work hard, and be a nice person on the way. Well that’s my motto anyway.
How does your new work differ to your older material?
This EP is a little different to my past album. I was in a happier place when I wrote it and i think that comes through in the music quite a lot. The whole EP is much more upbeat. I think I am best known for my ballads like 'Haunted', 'Deep End' etc., but 'The Truth' EP is more of a feel good record. I've only got one ballad on this record out of 6 songs, which for me is a record! I think it is a fun record which hopefully will get everyone excited about the summer! Been a long winter hasn’t it!?
Are there any other upcoming projects you're involved in that you can shed some light on?
Yes loads! I am working with producer Dan Gautreau on my new record which I am hoping to finish before the summer to release in January 2015. Plus I have a European tour with a bunch of cool bands and a UK tour in September... so busy busy busy!
Ben Montague's 'The Truth' EP is out now.