In Conversation with Mob14 and Jessie Lea 

By Emma Ferguson

With a unique sound and mass of energy, Mob14 and Jessie Lea are quickly establishing themselves as firm favourites in the Queen’s University music scene. Having won the Live Music Society’s ‘Beef of the Bands’ competition, the two secured their place as openers for Bino Bames and Villanelle on the Punchbag tour. Both artists drew in lively crowds in the Oh Yeah Music Centre on Monday 13^th October. After the gig, I chatted to Mob14 and Jessie on all things music, university, and influence.  

Mob14 

Formation 

Having met in school, Mob14 began making music together with the help of their music teacher, who encouraged them to use practice rooms and equipment while in school. During this formative time, the group began discovering their sound; a fusion of genres with influences ranging from Sade to Dave. Hailing from backgrounds in theatre, classical piano and electronic production, Mob14 seamlessly blend their individual styles, with shining saxophone work and punchy rap lyrics, cultivating a live experience centred around bringing people together and dancing. The group points to their school days as central to the sense of “healthy competition” which drives them to keep pushing, with each challenging the others to work to the best of their abilities.  

Influences 

In addition to being shaped by their shared youth, the band each have their own personal musical and lyrical influences. Singer and songwriter Andrew cites his interest in poetry as central to his creative process lyrically, whilst Brannan on keys gains inspiration from Japanese classical pianist Hiromi. Other artists fundamental in inspiring the group include producer Knucks and Michael Jackson, displaying a diversity which is apparent in the merged styles of their own music. Mob14 also point to their native Dublin and the wider area as central to what they do, having attended events such as Projective in Cork and gaining inspiration from Irish artist MOIO. Andrew also points to music as a form of escapism from the business of university life and working part-time jobs, stating that “every gig’s an experience” which they’re keen to enjoy. This sense of passion and genuine love for creating music is apparent at every Mob14 gig, with performances centred on encouraging audience participation.  

Future  

It’s not just in the Belfast university scene that Mob14 are making waves; the band have a studio album in the pipeline and are playing a headline gig of their own before the end of the year. The band’s single Self Preservation is already establishing itself as a Mob14 classic, both for the band to play and as a crowd favourite.  

Jessie May Lea  

With a host of originals and some crowd-favourite covers, Jessie May’s sets fuse acoustic classics with new releases to create an experience to be enjoyed by all. Hailing from Rugby, Jessie began playing at 13 and is navigating university life at Queen’s alongside her burgeoning music career.  

Influences  

Jessie’s lyricism is shaped by “the people and places” around her, drawing influence from her own life experiences.  

“Most of my music is all story telling” tells Jessie. 

Such authenticity is clearly echoed in her music; feelings are translated into lyrics, which allow for songs which feel truly organic. This originality is evident in Jessie’s latest single, Over It, which was released on October 24^th. With lyrics that feel almost conversational, Jessie’s songs feel personal and unique, offering a commendable level of vulnerability. In terms of sound, Jessie has garnered influence from a host of artists, from Olivia Dean and Sam Fender to Raye and Maggie Rogers. She also cites the early work of Taylor Swift as integral in moulding her as an artist with a country-pop fusion style.  

Belfast  

As an English and Creative Writing student at Queen’s, Jessie also spoke of her love for Belfast and its role in her music, with covers of Irish artists alongside her original material always being met with a warm reception from the crowd. Her Cranberries medley is a firm favourite, both for her to play and for audiences alike.  

What’s in store for the future?  

Jessie’s latest single, “Over it” was released on 24^th October and is available on all streaming platforms. She’s also heading on tour in December and has an album coming out in the new year.