Single Focus: Chocolate Strings

Answered by: Nia Falekakala

Single title? Playing Pretend

What's the song about? It's written about a hard time in my life and my desire to produce a positive response to that situation.

How long did it take to write/record? My cousin, one of our lead singers, Ofa Faniaka, offered me the guitar hook and my lyrics flowed, heart to paper, in a matter of an afternoon. It's been a year from then to now.

Is this track from a forthcoming release/existing release? It's our second and final single release that showcases the various styles we like to play with. Our upcoming full-length album will be independently released in late 2014.

What was inspiring you during the song's writing and recording? As a writer I learnt every good and bad situation is another writing opportunity. As a human being however, I learnt that rough times could become bettered with truth and expression of this truth.

We'll like this song if we like... Two-minute power-packed soul screamers from Otis Redding and short, heartbreaking, bellowed, Aretha Franklin tunes.

Do you play it differently live? Not particularly but there is always that live element that can inspire a new direction – every show is different.

When and where is your launch/next gig? We're launching Playing Pretend with an east coast tour. Next is The Motor Room, 30 May; VIC 5 Jun, Warehouses Are Better (Second Story Studios, Collingwood) alongside The Afrobiotics, Black Jesus Experience and Nahuatl Soundsystem. 6 Jun, Sooki Lounge; NSW 8 & 9 Jun, Peak Festival

Website link for more info? chocolatestrings.com