Falling Notes is one of Istanbul’s newest up-and-coming bands. The five-piece features Alican Tokdemir on drums, Umutcan Karamahmutoğlu on guitar, Sinan Çalışkan on bass, Yusuf Karaoğlu on both guitar and vocals, and Karina Morera as lead vocalist.
A blend of both blues and rock ‘n’ roll, Falling Notes can be seen playing in Beyoğlu every Wednesday at Kum Saati and every Friday at Lokomotif. Frontwoman and popular expat, Karina Morera, took a bit of time to speak with us about the group and what it has been like working within Istanbul’s local music scene.
TY: Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Karina. Tell us a bit about the band and how you came about?
KM: Our band actually all started because of our old guitarist had heard me singing at a bar and was trying to find a couple of people to start up a band. We all enjoy blues, rock, and jazz and decided to do covers of songs around those genres. After having a couple of set backs with people leaving the band, we finally got to a place where everyone was happy. We have officially all been playing together for about 3 months and it feels like years.
TY: How did you end up going with the name ‘Falling Notes’? Is there any meaning there?
KM: The way the name came about was actually very random. We were off to talk to a bar owner about playing at his bar, however, we didn’t have a name for ourselves. We all started just saying potential names as we all walked out the door. It was snowing outside and as the snow fell I thought of Falling Notes. I then suggested the name and the boys liked it.
TY: Personally, what are some of your biggest musical influences?
KM: Personally I love music so this is such a hard question for me. I love people from Etta James to Sleigh Bells to The Ramones. Right now I am really into The Black Keys and Tab Benoit.
TY: What has your experience been regarding the music scene here? How would you compare it with other scenes you’ve been involved with?
KM: I have noticed that the music scene here is not as big as it is in the states. I have found that many musicians have a very hard time playing their own music. Most people I know who are musicians play what is well known. There are so many fantastic artists here and I would love to see the music scene grow and also be a part of that growth.
TY: Any upcoming plans for Falling Notes?
KM: We are now playing every Wednesday at a place called Kum Saati in Asmalimescit and on Fridays at Lokomotif.
TY: On a personal note, as far as yabancılar go, you’re one of the first that I met when I moved to this city. You’re basically a veteran at this point. How long have you been here and what has kept you here so long?
KM: I have been here in Istanbul for about a little over 3 years, now. Istanbul is a magical place. It sure has it’s ups and downs but I have gotten so many amazing opportunities such as playing with a band (which I’ve always wanted to do), so it’s hard to leave. Also it’s been a dream of mine, ever since I was a little girl, to live abroad and now I’m doing it.
TY: Any recommendations on things to check out in the city?
KM: There are so many places and things here in Istanbul to see and do. Well, it would depend on who the person is and what they want to see. If you want history I would definitely go see the Basilica Cistern. If they want live music they can go to Kum Saati or Lokomotif and come see us. If they want a nice place to drink, I would say Alex’s Place. You can get the best cocktails there.
TY: Thanks again for taking the time to answer all these questions. Wanna tell us where we could access your music or see you in person?
KM: Falling Notes has a Facebook page and we have some videos on our Youtube. We are trying to get some recording done soon.
TY: Any last words of wisdom?
KM: Right now Falling Notes are covering blues, jazz, and classic rock songs. Eventually we would like to make our own music. Hopefully people in Istanbul would be supportive and interested in the music that we make.
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To keep up with the band, follow them on the Falling Notes Twitter.
