This local recording studio proves Canberra’s music scene isn’t boring
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Despite thriving on community and creativity, Canberra’s music scene is often deemed lacklustre.
Kojo Owusu-Ansah of Lake City Recording in New Acton is switching that narrative by cultivating the current music scene in Canberra – helping local artists ignite their creativity.
Kojo toured Australia for several years in the 2010s under the pseudonym Citizen Kay, where he met other musicians from Canberra, inspiring him to return home and focus on producing for the community.
“I went from ‘Gotta leave, gotta get out of here’ to ‘Maybe it would be cool to stay and help build something’,” says Kojo.
Dubbed Lake City as a tribute to the local environment – namely Lake Burley Griffin – Kojo envisions Lake City Recording as a place where artists can comfortably spill their hearts out to someone willing to listen, and nurture that emotion into art.
In comparison to the bustling cities of Sydney and Melbourne, Canberra is less congested and surrounded by desolate land – a strength that is often overlooked as being boring. Kojo believes this makes Canberra’s music scene a “double-edged sword”, as the mundane atmosphere can help fuel creativity and inspire authenticity.
“We’re actually in one of the greatest cities on the planet. Having the opportunity and ability to move anywhere and decide to stay here, I think, is a huge testament in itself. It’s like there is something here that is untapped.”
His brother, seven-time ARIA award winner Genesis Owusu, is one of the few artists to break out from Canberra – a testament to the dedication to their craft and to each other as their careers grew.
“We both genuinely love this craft of creating…he’s an incredible songwriter and vocalist and performer, so I trust that he knows what he’s doing in the booth,” says c.
“He trusts that I know what I’m doing…we’re in good hands with each other.”
He credits this to their upbringing; growing up exposed to his father’s love of music and persistent encouragement to play instruments and pursue his musical artistry.
Kojo’s formative years were soundtracked by Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against the Machine, Lupe Fiasco and as he puts it, “pre-super loony Kanye” – all artists that incited him to want to make his own music.
“Music is freedom,” says Kojo. “It was this way to approach the world however I wanted, essentially.”
When working with emerging artists, Kojo says it is best to gauge what their purpose for making music is and help them realise they can grow and make mistakes along the way.
Equipped with world-class gear, including the Lisson Grove R-124, famously used on The Beatles’ recordings at Abbey Road Studios, Lake City Recording is fully qualified to help artists produce professional recordings without ever leaving Canberra.
Kojo says inspiration can strike anywhere, is usually written music-first, and best comes to fruition when working with others. Upcoming projects to come out of Lake City Recording include work from artist Stella Eve, who has been writing her sophomore album, and other undisclosed local bands that have got some “very tasty” stuff in the works.
And the best way Canberrans can support local music?
“Go to a gig, go to places, go to restaurants, go to pop-ups, just go to the things. People are trying to make things happen here, but it doesn’t work if we don’t go to them.”
So no, Canberra’s music scene isn’t boring; it’s just waiting to be appreciated.
Images supplied.
