A staple of the Australian music scene, Julia Stone and her brother Angus headline SummerSalt, which heads to Stage 88 on Friday 27 January. CW caught up with Julia before the tour kicked off to discuss family dynamics, gigs, and video games.

1. SummerSalt is just about to kick off. How are you feeling about hitting the road?

Actually, really excited; it’s the first time in at least three years that Angus and I have had a run of shows together.

I think a big part of the reason we said yes is because Ben Harper is playing; the first song I learnt on guitar was a Ben Harper one. I can’t believe we are on the same line-up.

2. How do you navigate sibling arguments when working with your brother?

Initially, it was more challenging because we didn’t have any skills or techniques to navigate our relationship; family relationships can be tricky.

We grew up in a tumultuous environment, seeing them communicate badly so we copied a lot of ways of talking to each other. We started to figure out there is a way of doing this … we are honest, patient, and kind.

3. Your new album Life Is Stange is the soundtrack for a video game. Are you much of a gamer?

Angus is much better at games; he played a bit when we were growing up. I was so embarrassed, I went to the studio where they make Life Is Stange; they asked me if I would like to play, I gave it a go, it just didn’t work very well.

4. Is there anything you like to do when you visit Canberra?

We are usually only in Canberra for 24 hours. My other brother lives in Canberra; he is in uni there, so seeing him.

5. What’s next for you?

This run of shows goes until mid-February; during that Angus is pretty busy with Dope Lemon and I am recording a solo record. We have a few one-off shows, our solo projects have taken over for the time being.

I feel like playing together because it happens so rarely, it is pretty special. I sing harmonies with lots of different people but there is nothing like singing harmonies with Angus.

Julia Stone’s answers have been condensed for publication.

Catch Angus and Julia Stone at SummerSalt, Stage 88, 27 January; summersaltmusic.com.au

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