In this exclusive interview, we ask Bailey Tomkinson & The Locals to dive into the inspiration behind the latest single, "Chrysalis," and how it symbolises a personal journey of transformation. Bailey opens up about her creative process, the joys of collaborating with renowned producer Ian Barter, and how her evolution from solo artist to band leader has shaped her sound. She also reflects on what it means to be compared to iconic artists like Taylor Swift and Daisy Jones & The Six, while staying true to her roots in Cornwall's vibrant "Kernowfornia" music scene. From performing at major festivals to intimate gigs, Bailey shares the magic of live shows and what fans can expect from The Locals' upcoming performance.

Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind your new single, “Chrysalis,” and how it represents a theme of transformation?

"Chrysalis" is all about that moment of becoming—where you’re in between who you were and who you’re about to be. It’s a little awkward and uncomfortable, like growing pains, but also full of hope. For me, it’s personal. It represents my own journey from being a solo artist to embracing the band, breaking out of that “girl with a guitar” mold, and stepping into something bigger. It’s like saying, “Here I am, world—watch me fly!” Except maybe with less grace, because I’m definitely still figuring it out.

How did your collaboration with Ian Barter come about, and what was it like working with him on this track?

Ian actually reached out to me and asked if I’d like to do something with him, and working with him was incredible. He’s got this knack for pop hooks, which is something I wanted to bring to the song. He took the lyrical ideas I had scribbled down and helped shape them into something super catchy. The entire process felt like we were riding a wave—we wrote "Chrysalis" in one afternoon! That’s when you know you’re on the same page, creatively. He’s worked with some real icons, so no pressure, right? But we had such a fun, easy collaboration, and the song just flowed.

You’ve been described as the UK’s answer to Daisy Jones & The Six. How do you feel about that comparison, and do you relate to it as a band?

Honestly, being compared to Daisy Jones & The Six is pretty cool! I mean, who wouldn’t want to be part of that rock ’n’ roll drama? But really, while the comparison is flattering—those iconic '70s vibes, the big band sound—at the end of the day, we’re just trying to be us. I think where we relate is in the storytelling and the way the band feels like a family, with all the chaos and love that comes with that. But I’m happy to leave the Fleetwood Mac-style relationship drama to fiction. One Fleetwood Mac is enough for the world!

You mentioned that recording “Chrysalis” was a magical experience. Can you share more about what made that studio session special?

It really was! Josiah Manning, our producer, just instantly got the vibe we were going for. We made this playlist of all our favorite influences—Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, America—and when we walked into the studio, he had already put a towel over the drum kit to get that retro sound. I mean, he was that prepared. There was just this buzz in the room, like we all knew we were creating something special. And then Dan’s sax solo at the end? That was the moment where we all just stood back and said, “Yep, this is it. We’ve nailed it.” There were no egos, just pure creativity flowing, which is rare and magical in itself.

Your live performances have included big shows with bands like Simple Minds and Keane. How do those experiences compare to smaller, more intimate gigs like your upcoming show at The Slaughtered Lamb?

Oh, both have their magic. Playing huge shows with legends like Simple Minds and Keane? That’s an adrenaline rush. You step on stage and there are thousands of eyes on you, and it’s this massive out-of-body experience. But I love the smaller, intimate gigs too. At a place like The Slaughtered Lamb, you can actually see people’s faces, their reactions, and it feels like you’re all in it together, like a secret moment between you and the crowd. The energy is different, more intense, more personal. I can’t wait for it!

Bailey, your solo track “Astronaut” reached #1 on the iTunes video chart. How does your experience as a solo artist influence your work with The Locals?

“Astronaut” was such a wild ride, and I’m so proud of what it achieved. My solo work taught me a lot about trusting my instincts and crafting songs that really connect with people on a personal level. Now, with The Locals, I get to bring that storytelling vibe but add in all these new layers. The band has expanded the sound in ways I never could have imagined as a solo artist. It’s like building on a foundation I laid during my solo career but letting it grow and evolve into something way more dynamic.

The band has a mix of influences, from Fleetwood Mac to Sam Fender. How do you balance those different styles when creating your own unique sound?

We have a lot of influences flying around, and sometimes it feels like we’re throwing all these different colors onto a canvas and seeing what works. But that’s part of the fun! One day it’s all ‘70s California rock vibes, the next it’s a gritty, more modern sound. The key is finding that balance where each member brings their influences, but it still sounds like us. There’s definitely creative sparring—like, “What if we take this in a Springsteen direction?” and someone else says, “What about some Sam Fender-style grit?” The tension usually leads to something that blends the best of both worlds.

Bailey, I believe country icon Brad Paisley has compared you to Taylor Swift and Emmylou Harris. What did you think of that?

Honestly, I was actually playing a gig myself when he said that on the radio and I had to listen twice just to make sure I’d heard it right! To be mentioned alongside Taylor Swift and Emmylou Harris—icons in their own right—was just surreal. Taylor has been such a huge influence on me, especially in how she tells stories through her songs, and Emmylou is a legend in the country world. It’s a massive compliment, but I also feel like I’m still carving out my own space. It was one of those moments where I thought, “Okay, I might be doing something right here!”

What does the Kernowfornia scene in Cornwall mean to you, and how has the local community influenced your music and growth as a band?

Kernowfornia is home. Cornwall has this laid-back, surf-town vibe, but there’s also a really strong sense of community and creativity. Growing up here, I’d be surrounded by local musicians playing everything from folk to rock, and it taught me so much about the power of music to bring people together. The scene here is tight-knit, and it’s inspired me to stay grounded, even as we grow as a band. There’s something magical about making music with the sea in the background—it definitely finds its way into the songs.

Your music carries a strong storytelling element. What role does storytelling play in your songwriting process?

Storytelling is at the heart of everything I write. Whether it’s a personal experience or something I’ve observed, I’m always trying to tell a story that will resonate with people. I think that’s why I connected with artists like Taylor Swift early on—she knows how to weave a narrative that feels intimate and universal at the same time. For me, it’s about creating a moment in the song where someone listens and says, “I’ve been there.” It’s like leaving breadcrumbs for the listener to follow.

You’ve toured and played at major festivals like The Great Escape and Black Deer. What have been the highlights of your live performances so far?

The Great Escape was a huge highlight. There’s nothing like the buzz of a festival crowd—everyone’s there to discover new music, and the energy is infectious. Black Deer was also amazing because it’s got such a cool, Americana vibe, and I felt right at home in that. But honestly, the real highlight is always that moment on stage when you see someone in the crowd connect with the music, whether it’s dancing or just closing their eyes and feeling it. That’s why we do this.

What can fans expect from your upcoming show at The Slaughtered Lamb?

Expect to be up close and personal with The Locals—in the best way! We’re bringing a lot of energy, some new songs, and a few surprises too. It’s an intimate venue, so we’re going to make it feel like a big house party, but with better music! We’re all really excited for this one—it’s going to be special. If you like to dance, or even if you just want to sway along, this is the show to be at.

Thanks Bailey Tomkinson & The Locals - all the best for the future!

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and Managing Director of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.