They’re on a journey to stardom and flying high – as you might expect from a band called Airport Impressions.
There aren’t too many groups from Malta who have stamped their imprint on the global music scene, but this four-piece collective keep pushing the boundaries and gaining new aficionados.
They’ve already amassed a devoted fan base throughout Europe and have blazed a trail in the United States. And next week, they will be appearing all over Scotland on a tour, which includes a prestigious slot at Midstock and an appearance at Aberdeen’s Exodus on September 4.
The group consists of Errol Sammut (lead vocals, guitar), Johann Schembri (guitar), Chris Curmi (bass) and Steve Farrugia (drums) and they’re a tightly-knit combination.
There’s no secret to Airport Impressions’ success. They serve up catchy pop tunes with sublime hooks and irresistible melodies, evoking everything from Pearl Jam to Johnny Cash and U2 to Coldplay.
As Errol Sammut told the Press and Journal, what began as a bit of musical fun in 2008 has evolved into something much more substantial.
He said: “We started officially in 2008, after a songwriting spree in Ireland, during which some of the early tracks were born.
“At first, the plan was for me and Johann to record just a couple of songs for personal satisfaction, but, after the success of the first single Beside You, everything seemed to point in the direction we are today.
“Our musical inspirations vary from all different styles, ranging from indie to pop to country rock, whether it’s Nirvana, Coldplay, Kings of Leon, Counting Crows….the list goes on and on. It’s basically any music that you can relate to, melodically and lyrically.
“We have new recording projects in our sights, but, at the moment, we are focusing mainly on the upcoming live performances in festivals and gigs in Scotland and elsewhere in the UK.”
The trip to the Granite City is another step on their peripatetic journey. Quite apart from the Exodus gig, they’ll be involved in a session at “Live at Captain Tom’s” on September 5.
Their philosophy to touring is quite simply: wherever they go and whatever they play, it’s another opportunity to grab life by the scruff of the neck.
Errol added: “We’re very much looking forward to coming to Aberdeen, and Glasgow and Edinburgh and Dundee [and Dunfermline and Perth] and it being a great experience.
“We are positive this will help us gain exposure in cities where good music lives and breathes.
“Some of us have been on holidays to Scotland, and it has been great, but to tour across these cities will definitely be even better and we can’t wait for it to start!”
As for the songs of which they are particularly proud, he reeled off three in no particular order: “Walk with Me, Berlin and Hymns of June”.
The future looks on the up and up for this new Impressionist movement!