Fans, Drums, and Rock 'n' Roll: A Heart-to-Heart with Kingseeker's Marius
Today, we’ re exploring the dark tones of Kingseeker newest album “Passing Moments Caught Forever” So I must say that this record it is like a crazy collision of post-hardcore metal screamo and just about general heavy rock and this blows up my head.
From the hyper song “Young and Naive” to the madness of ” Hypnopompia ” as well as mathcore feelings in Cold Blooded/Ice Blood Kingseeker are delivering music trip above average. The title of the album? Instead, it’s all about the nostalgia of dreams and waking from realities based on Jan working as a photographer.
Interview with the Kingseeker drummer Marius. It is about his transition from being an amateur Rock Band player to absorbing live concerts, video games and life’s up-and down process. Marius names his drumming idols and describes the development of his style. Moreover, he comes clean on the difficulties created by drum machines as they invaded the music scene.
We are lifting the veil on Marius’ life beyond a drum kit, discussing that video games and horror collectibles happen to be his passions. And, of course, we’re getting Kingseeker’s plans for the future. Therefore, fasten your belt and get ready for the passage of pure essence from Marius to Kingseeker. To good music and best moments!
What is your stage name. My name is Marius, and i play drums in Kingseeker.
Is there a story behind your stage name? We released our first three singles under “Coastlines” but there were so many bands named that, so we were hard to find so we changed it. Kingseeker is from the primordial serpent “Kingseeker Frampt” in Dark Souls.
Where do you find inspiration? I get inspiration by watching and listenening other bands play live. Video Games and diffrent kinds of Emotions.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? Music for me has always been a way of escaping life and responsabilities. Ive always had music on my ears no matter where I was.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? I guess, my family is somewhat Musical, but I’m the most musical out of them all
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? Guitar Hero and Rock Band Game Series
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? I actually learned to play drums by playing Rock Band on my Xbox 360! Guitar is self learned.
Fans, Drums, and Rock ‘n’ Roll: A Heart-to-Heart with Kingseeker’s Marius
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? Metallica was the first band I ever saw play live back in 2008 or 09 if I remember correctly
How could you describe your music? My music outside of Kingseeker is a weird mix of lots of different stuff! It’s a mix of metalcore, Post Rock and prog. I really just make whatever I like and feel like so im not restricting myself to one style
Describe your creative process. i usually just sit down at my studio mac and play my guitar and sometimes it leads to pretty banging riffs and grooves and other times it just ends up being nothing
What is your main inspiration? I honestly don’t know
What musician do you admire most and why? I would say Matt Halpern (periphery), Danny Carey (Tool) and Mario Duplantier (Gojira) their drumming and the way they do things is pretty unique and interesting! And I would love to mix their style into my own somehow
Has your style evolved since the beginning of your career? Oh yes! When I first started out I wanted to play the same music and style as metallica, now im much more open to play anything that sounds nice and feels right
Who do you see as your main competitor? Drum machines
What are your interests outside of music? Video games and video game/horror collectibles
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? I would probably be dead
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? Drum machines. Everyone is too reliant on those things now and it messes with my creativity and how I think and work with drums. But I understand why people use them and I do use them myself to write simple toned down sketches for my real drumming for later which I then can work and improve on by getting a real feeling for how the song is
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? Make music gear more affordable
Drum gear is expensive as hell
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? Our singer Jan is better to answer this:
Passing Moments Caught Forever is about feeling trapped in the past, mulling over fantasy worlds you create in your head, what ifs, regrets, nostalgic memories (both real and false) and regrets.
Its about growing up and understanding that your pre concieved notions and biases arent necessarily correct, just because you think they are.
What are your plans for the coming months? Get some more practice in both guitar and drums! Prep for upcoming gigs and studio stuff
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans Not sure yet
What message would you like to give to your fans? Thanks for taking the time to listen to our music, hopefully we get to play all over with this one. I can’t wait for you to hear it!
Metal Mayhem: Suicide Puppets' Dark Journey into 'Beyond The Veil
Straight out of Harrisburg, PA, Suicide Puppets, a metal crew with an industrial twist, is about to drop their new EP, “Beyond The Veil,”. Picture this: killer riffs, eerie symphonics, and a deep dive into the minds of serial killers. They recently inked a deal with M&O Records, adding to the anticipation. Tracks like “Death Note” and “1000 Ways to Die” keep the theme dark and twisted, hitting you fast and hard.
I caught up with Veritas Suicide, the drummer of the crew, for the lowdown. Turns out, music’s been in their blood since day one, with influences ranging from horror flicks to serial killers. They started on the violin in first grade and took cues from legendary drummer Vinnie Paul to up their game.
As Suicide Puppets gears up for shows and studio time, they’re all about living life to the max. Their message to fans? Seize the day, every day. So, get ready to be hit with some killer tunes and a vibe that’s pure metal mayhem.
I was really into Boondock Saints at the time I picked my stage name
Where do you find inspiration?
From everywhere really.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
Music was a very intregal part of my life. My family is full of musicians. I started out on violin in the 1st grade.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
Yes!
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
I wouldn’t say any one person inspired me so much as it was something I had always wanted to do
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I started out on violin in the first grade. However I truly believe I stated to learn about music from my Aunt Laura who is an accomplished pianist
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
My first ever concert experience was at the Valley Forge Music Fair. Sadly that venue no longer exists but I went to see The Jets. Iv got to tell you they put on one hell of a show.
How could you describe your music?
Industrial/Goth Metal
Describe your creative process.
Usually someone will introduce a guitar riff and we just play off of it until we find something we like.
Usually someone will introduce a guitar riff and we just play off of it until we find something we like.
What is your main inspiration?
Horror movies and serial killers
What musician do you admire most and why?
Vinnie Paul. He was a master behind the drum kit. He was the one that pushed me to learn how to do double kick.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
I would say so. I think you have to evolve and become better at your craft.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
We don’t compete with anyone expect ourselves
We don’t compete with anyone expect ourselves
What are your interests outside of music?
Spending time with my family, karate, and weight training
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
Trucking.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
I would have to say being able to take constructive criticism. When you first start out I feel you can be a little cocky about what you are doing. Stay humble.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
Venues taking a cut of merch sales
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
Beyond the Veil is basically the unknown state of life after death. This EP goes down the rabbit hole of the serial killer psyche. You are experiencing it as the victim.
What are your plans for the coming months?
We have a couple shows lined up to start the year and plan on going into the studio to record the next album.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans
Not at this time
What message would you like to give to your fans? Live everyday like there is no tomorrow.
Bridging Genres: Think Sanity's Unique Sonic Identity
In Anniston, Alabama as a genre bender is “Think Sanity”. This alternative rock band is formed by five members–Andie Johnson, Trent Johnson, Jack Vermuth, Christopher Collins and Will Halverson. The blend of precise drums with heartfelt vocals along with a few twirls on eclectic guitar makes them unique enough. The band was established by the couple, Trent and Andie in 2017 before going on a break but returned two years later armed with new enthusiasm. There were two turning points in their musical development when drummer Christopher Collins and guitarist Will Halverson joined the group.
The release of their 2018, “Think Safely,”reflects the band’s ability to create a unique sound. Lead guitarist Jack Vermuth sheds light on the band’s work, influences and how they create as a team. Life struggles are the source of Think Sanity’s inspiration and even if they tend to be emotionally laden, there is always a positive perception when listening to their effort.
And as they thrive in the ever-changing music world, Think Sanity binds together its spirit of cooperation rather than competition to instill unity among musicians around them. Do not miss this opportunity to participate in a close interview with these talented artists who think that working together is essential for making the musical world colorful and diverse.
What is your stage name Jack here! Usually it’s just Jack and then there’s Andie, Trent, Chris and Will. I think Will is probably the only one who kind of has a stage name, whom we occasionally refer to as “Heavy Edge” because he plays a seven string guitar.
Is there a story behind your stage name?
Trent: We’ve never really had personal stage names, but as for the band name a good friend of ours jokingly suggested “artificial think sanity” which happened to be a lyric in a song that we wrote a few years before. We ended up dropping the artificial and just stuck with ThinkSanity, and the moniker has kind of fit us ever since.
Jack: for as long as I can remember, I’ve been called many different nicknames “Jack be nimble, Jackwagon, Jack-“ well, you get it, so usually it’s just Jack. It’s kind of a way of taking back my name.
Where do you find inspiration? The band tends to find inspiration in daily life and the trials of maintaining a positive mental state through whatever life throws at us
Andie: I listen to music all the time and I am constantly on the hunt for new and interesting sounds. My songs spring from my emotions. I feel music very deeply and it helps keep me grounded, or alternatively discover new worlds.
Chris: I find inspiration from my peers and predecessors. Those around me that supported me from the beginning and that work every day beside me. I try and take each day as an opportunity to prove myself worthy of such a great environment.
Will: I find inspiration from those bands and musicians out there that make me feel like I need to practice. Polyphia, animals as leaders, and their dogs were astronauts are the bands I can think of that are really pushing what the guitar can do.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? For me, Jack, music served as a release and escape from moving around while I was growing up. Friends came and went, but music stayed. When I got to be old enough to play, I never looked back.
Trent: I lucked out and got to go to a lot of small concerts with my dad when I was little and it really gave me an appreciation for music and performing in just the atmosphere that all that can bring. To the point you know where I did the classic thing of poisoning my family’s computer with limewire to download every random song I could think of wanting to emulate the songs I was listening to
Chris: My family definitely played a role in my musical journey. My grandparents were the fronts for a regional rock and roll group and later in their life formed a touring southern gospel with my parents. My Father was a drummer/bassist and my Mother a singer.
Will: I hated school and band class was the one hour of escape I got from it. My middle school band director Luke Manning was very good about showing us new music that was different from what I was used to so I developed an appreciation for music from then on.
Andie: I have been singing on stage since the age of two and i started playing piano around 6 or 7
I grew up on mostly Christian music, but I had found a sense of spirituality in and of the music itself for as long as I can remember. I have always been very sensitive to the way music moves me
Andie Johnson – vocalist, Trent Johnson – Bassist, Jack Vermuth – lead guitarist, unclean vocalist ,Christopher Collins – Drummer ,Will Halverson – guitarist
Are you from a musical or artistic family? Trent: personally no, I think the closest thing I have is an uncle who does gospel music. But growing up music was never really a big thing in my family other than listening to it. So trying to learn it on my own was quite challenging at times.
Chris: Yes!
Will: definitely not. Most of my family are people people or numbers people. I’m the only one who ever really developed a love for music.
Andie: My mother sings and plays guitar and my dad drums. My dad was even in a touring Christian rock band in his early twenties.
Jack: more like musical adjacent. They’ve played at differing levels. My great grandmother had a doctorate of music from what I remember.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? I think the desire to write and release our music is the main factor. But all of us truly love being musicians.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? Trent: well, I’ve always liked writing so I’ve always scribbled down lyrical ideas ever since I was a teenager. As for playing, I lied and said that I could play bass to impress a girl (my now wife and the band’s singer) and lucked out and had good enough friends that actually helped me learn how to play.
Chris: Many different ways, by rote in my childhood and then classical training from high school and college.
Will: When it comes to guitar, I taught myself and watched a lot of YouTube (shout out Marty Schwartz) to learn how to play songs. From there it was a matter of applying what I learned in my studies of music theory and various techniques, also mostly from YouTube.
Andie: I learned to play classical piano at first then around 11 or 12 I had a youth minister begin teaching me chord structures and how to string melodies together with chord forms to create more full sounding intricate pieces. I’ve basically been learning/playing by ear since then. I’ve never had any sort of formal vocal training.
Jack: for the longest, I used other songs as guides for how to play the guitar or bass itself, but once I knew I wanted to take it seriously, I took lessons on guitar and bass in college. I’ve written lyrics throughout my life, and I’ve been honing that craft for a long time as well.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? Trent: I believe it was a concert called Winter jam It was a lot of bands there but the main one I remembered seeing they really left an impact on me was Audio Adrenaline
Chris: the first concert i attended was of the Crabb Family revival, but the first Big/real concert I went to was Hell Yeah opening for Godsmack
Andie: If I remember correctly, I think it was Rebecca St. James
How could you describe your music? Emotionally driven lyrics with some booming bass, funky guitar, powerful drums, and some snazzy rhythms holding it together
Describe your creative process. A Lot of the time we each write songs and all get together on coming up with riffs and ideas that will help them develop into full tracks.
What is your main inspiration? Honestly? The main inspiration that keeps us going is the thought that somewhere someone benefitted from the lessons and stories we’ve shared. Even if it only helped just a little bit.
What musician do you admire most and why? Trent: The Classic Crime, Beartooth, Anberlin, Taking Back Sunday, recently I’ve also found a lot of inspiration listening to Hot Mulligan as well
Chris: Its a tie between Jacob Collier’s amazing mind and Benny Greb’s bottomless pocket.
Andie: I have a lot of appreciation for different artists, but the more recent ones I can definitively point to are Icon For Hire, Citizen Soldier, Melanie Martinez, Lo Spirit, and Imogen Heap just to name a few. Specifically for the way they string together their lyrical content but also for the interesting melodic concepts
Has your style evolved since the beginning of your career? 100%, Think Sanity is a constantly evolving storm of sound. We make a point to challenge ourselves with each outing and song.
Who do you see as your main competitor? As a group, we try to maintain minimal competition with our peers. We believe that the “grind” should really be focused on lifting each other up and having a great time. When one group succeeds, we all succeed.
What are your interests outside of music? Trent: comics are a big part of my life, Godzilla obviously, but outside of music I enjoy writing and occasionally drawing.
Chris: I like trading card games and MMORPG’s and other adventure focused games.
Will: I really enjoy watching basketball, playing Rocket League (often with Jack) and trying to stay active and in the gym.
Andie: I’m a casual gamer but I actually really just love being with friends, generally conversing and hanging out
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? Trent: I would like to say something cool, like writing books or owning a comic shop but I would probably just be working my job and hanging out with my friends (Andie: same)
Chris: I would either be a pharmaceutical chemist or an electrician.
Will: I don’t really have any other profitable skills. If I had done what I wanted to do before music, I’d be an archeologist
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? Andie and Trent: Learning how to communicate with each other well, as well as, learning to set aside ego and personal issues and approach things from a fresh point of view.
Chris: Coming from humble beginnings having the financial ability to support personal enrichment, gear, and travel to capitalize on opportunities.
Will: self doubt, working as part of a team, and learning to admit when I’m wrong.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
Personally, I think if there was a way to eliminate some of the gatekeeping music has
If it were possible for the industry to focus on the art and not the ROI I feel as though we would have a better musical landscape but it is called an industry for a reason.
Will: I’ve seen it in certain scenes, but I’d get rid of all the cliqueness and unnecessary competition. When it comes to local scenes, a win for one should be a win for the homies as well.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
Well Sad kaiju, is named partially for Trents love of Godzilla and partly in reference to his struggles with major depressive disorder.
Trent: At the time of writing it, I had just gone through a pretty nasty breakup with the band that I had played with for a few years. I was kind of being destructive with my own friendships so I named it after the rampaging monster I saw myself as in an attempt to force myself to move forward and try to do better.
What are your plans for the coming months?
We hope to be playing out to promote Sad Kaiju’s release as well as some more possible releases in the near future.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans We have a few things in the works that hopefully you’ll see in the near future!
What message would you like to give to your fans? Breathe, turn on some music, and do the next thing.
Will: I’m very glad that you exist. As a fan and just as a person. You are seen. You are heard. You are felt. You are important.
Melodies Against Oppression: Kelsie Kimberlin Unveils 'We Are The Promise
Now meet artist Kelsie Kimberlin, an American-Ukrainian whose Track ‘We Are The Promise’ is more than just a song – it’s a powerful story against authoritarianism covered in stunning shots of Ukraine rich in historical heritage. Picture this: The interpretation includes music outlawed, a symbol of real-life difficulties and a symphony by the Kyiv Radio Symphony Orchestra. This is not just a song, but it’s an act of resilience and artistic ambition.
Her music does not encompass everyone’s preferences. She is a Jack of all trades, venturing into rock and pop music; so it’s rap or Latin – you name it. Her songs? They are tales to tell, based on any and everything from the wings of a butterfly or a homeless child’s request. And she has plans, with 25 songs to be released and one about a transgender girl of twelve years.
Kelsie’s message to fans, then? Much appreciation and please do stay. This is not a journey of her music; it is about standing with Ukraine, defending democracy and firstly believing in the promise of freedom.
A. Thank you for the opportunity to talk with your readers. My stage name is the same as my real name, Kelsie Kimberlin.
Is there a story behind your stage name? A. I want to be authentic so I use my real name.
Where do you find inspiration? A. I hear, see, and smell music so everything inspires me, from the wings of a butterfly to the homeless child begging for money. Everything in life is a story that can be put to music and that is why I am so prolific. Every week I am writing and recording a new song. Currently, I have 150 songs ready for release, fully mixed and mastered. So that gives you an idea of how many songs I have written.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? A. I have been enthralled with music since I was born My dad started taking me to concerts when I was a toddler and I started going with him to the studio when I was eight. At age 12, I recorded my first solo song and at 13 released my first video that went viral after Taylor Swift’s fan site posted it.
have been enthralled with music since I was born My dad started taking me to concerts when I was a toddler and I started going with him to the studio when I was eight.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? A. Yes, my father is a fantastic musician and songwriter and he is my partner in this musical venture.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? A. My father has been my strongest musical influence. However, I have been influenced by strong and professional musicians such as Taylor and Paul McCartney.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? A. I was around music all the time as a child. When I was eight, I won a contest working with Yoko Ono’s Peace Project and I took first place and got $5000. So I spent every penny on music lessons.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? A. Oh my, you would have to ask my dad because it was before I could even talk. But I have seen hundreds of concerts, most recently, BabyMetal, Carley Hansen, and Peter Gabriel. Before digital tickets, they used to issue paper tickets and I have an entire wall of them.
How could you describe your music? A. I do not fit into any particular genre. I am very versatile and can sing rock, pop, rap, Latin, and pretty much any other style. I get so bored of artists who constantly release music in the same style. If someone were to categorize me, it would probably be indie -rock-pop-Latin-rap…..
Describe your creative process. A. That to me is a funny question. Everything inspires me. Most songs write themselves. Music is not a struggle. If something moves me, I will write about it and I know that it will move others. To use the example above, I was in the NY subway and saw this little girl with a tin cup in her hand begging for money. So I went straight home and wrote my song “Little Girl.” which is a haunting tune that I will release later this year.
What is your main inspiration? A. Over the past several years, I have been inspired to write about Ukraine and the terrorist war against it. My songs have garnered millions of views and rave reviews. Music to me should be meaningful rather than disposable.
What musician do you admire most and why? A. I admire most musicians but especially the ones who are professional and attend to their craft without being self-destructive with drugs and alcohol.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? A. Actually, yes and no. I have been writing in all kinds of styles since the beginning but the industry tried to put me in the country pop genre when I started at 13 but I rebelled against that and now I can release whatever I want.
Who do you see as your main competitor? A. I don’t have any competitors because my music is unique. When you hear a song by Kelsie Kimberlin, you know it’s me no matter if it is a soft pop song or a Ukrainian war cry.
What are your interests outside of music? A. I love family, travel, and animals. We have a dozen animals including a pot-bellied pig named Ozzie after you know who!!
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? A. I can’t imagine doing anything else. But since you ask, I launched a foundation to support Ukraine which I am focused on. It is called the www.KelsieKimberlinFoundation.org.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? A. Oh don’t get me started. The main problem with the industry is that in many cases it rewards mediocrity. Also, there is way too much of an echo chamber with so many of the pop artists sounding the same and singing about victimhood rather than empowerment.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? A. Again, there is not just one thing wrong. But real artists need to be supported and nurtured. I have to say that I get annoyed when I hear a song and then go look at the credits and see a bunch of writers of the song. Are you kidding me? So a huge artist has a song with a dozen writers with big names and then the big label puts a million dollars behind promotion and suddenly it’s a hit. Is it really? I would be ashamed to put out music like that.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? A. The Ukrainian people are protecting the entire world from a dictator who wants to subjugate humanity. Ukrainians are the promise that will save democracy, they are the story of the century, and their victory will be the glory of freedom.
What are your plans for the coming months? A. I am releasing a lot of music this year. 25 songs. My next song will be about a 12-year-old transgender girl and it is called “Twinkle.” Then I have two videos coming out in the spring with a Latin style that I filmed in Colombia. So lots going on.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans. A. I would like to take a delegation of strong female Grammy winners to Ukraine to meet with the President and show support for Ukraine. In 2022, President Zelensky won Time’s Person of the Year and in 2023, Taylor won it. So I would love to get them together.
What message would you like to give to your fans? A. I love you so much. Thank you for all your support. Please stick with me and with Ukraine.
From Brit Pop to Balkan Fusion: Suzumeno Tears Musical Journey
Step into the world of “Suzumeno Tears” as they unveil their latest single, “Akita Daikokumai,” a spirited celebration of the New Year through a Japanese traditional folk lens. This lively rendition, blending vocal harmonies, intense guitar arpeggios, and expressive drumming, captures the essence of the God of Fortune’s Dance.
In an exclusive interview, Agatha, one half of the duo, gives us a glimpse into the journey of “Suzumeno Tears.”
The name “Suzumeno Tears” carries a clever Japanese pun, where “suzume” (sparrows) and “sparrow’s tears” symbolize a bit of money. Agatha, the arranger and producer, shares childhood influences from Brit pop through her sister’s CDs and highlights the Beatles as a major inspiration.
Self-taught in guitar and exploring vocal harmony, Agatha’s creative joy now lies in arranging and covering traditional folk songs, a departure from her earlier songwriting days.
With plans for upcoming releases and collaborations, including an off-record mention of a February single and a full album in March or April, “Suzumeno Tears” continues to carve a unique niche in the musical landscape.
Agatha’s parting message to fans is simple: “Hope you enjoy what I enjoy!” This interview offers a personal peek into the soulful journey and passion behind “Suzumeno Tears.”
What is your stage name Our stage name is “Suzumeno Tears”, consisting of Miyuki SATO and Agatha (myself). I’m going to answer these questions from my(Agatha’s) point of view, as the arranger\producer. Miyuki SATO has been a great singer specialised in Bulgarian folk songs. We started singing together when we both joined a class to learn a kind of traditional Japanese folk song, GOSHU ONDO (more like a singing style).
Is there a story behind your stage name?
In Japanese, “suzume” means sparrows, and the expression “sparrow’s tears (suzumeno namida)” means a little bit of money. It’s a kind of pun.
Where do you find inspiration? Great (traditional folk) songs, sung in a great voice.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? Fun. Creative play. I was a very realistic child, so I didn’t think there was any way for me to do it professionally though.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
Not really. But my elder sister was so much into Brit pop in the 90s, I had a big influence from her CDs.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? Mostly, the Beatles.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? I self-taught the guitar, my main instrument, but I recieved some musical education in early life, 4-6 yo to learn the piano, 6-11 yo to learn the violin, but I was not a good student ( hated to read the scores..)
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? I’m not sure about this, but for the REAL artist, like who everybody knows, may be STING.
How could you describe your music? What I do right now in this unit “Suzumeno Tears” focuses on vocal harmony, using Japanese traditional (sometimes, Balkan too) folk songs which are traditionally sung only in monophony.
What I do right now in this unit “Suzumeno Tears” focuses on vocal harmony,
Describe your creative process. When I get familiar with a new song (traditional folk song), sometimes I “feel like” this is going to turn to something.
What is your main inspiration? What musician do you admire most and why?
Again, the Beatles, probably. And I don’t think I need any explanation on that fact, they are just great 🙂
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? Yes, very much. I started writing my own songs and home-record them with a multi-track recorder (YAMAHA MD4 and MD8). Now I don’t feel like writing my own songs (honestly, I have nothing to say) , instead I find a great joy in arranging/covering.
Who do you see as your main competitor? They are NOT “competitor”, I emphasize this with my great respect, but as we both take Japanese traditional folk songs as the theme, “Minyo Crusaders” are best known Japanese artist in the world.
What are your interests outside of music? Drawing comic book (manga).
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? I don’t know.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
Well, I would say the biggest problem or enemy in making music is simply the lack of passion.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? Everybody buys CDs once again.
What are your plans for the coming months? (It is off-record yet) I’m going to release another single in February, and then, the whole album in March or April.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans We often collaborate with Remon Nakanishi in gigs, three of us, or as a band. He is an extraordinarily singer of Japanese traditional folk. I produced his album in 2022 and released it from my label, DOYASA! Records.
What message would you like to give to your fans? Hope you enjoy what I enjoy!
Highway Vibes and Nostalgic Tunes: Unveiling Rose Haven Motor Hotel
Today we shed more lights on Rose Haven Motor Hotel, come join us as we get to know more about them and how they came up with their stage name, they also shared where they derive their main source of inspiration.
They derive inspiration through which they find nostalgia in Midwest and Western motels on highways. An eclectic musical life of this artist is marked by the improvement from home-taught nuances to middle school attempts on songwriting and production.
Rose reveals influences from artists such as Frank Ocean and Fleet Foxes, highlighting the irresistible attraction toward a career in music. The creative process is not orchestrated but songs grow naturally from a melody, chord progression.
Rose’s music is hard to describe, marriage of retro country/folk and modern indie rock; dark pop aspects and old-school funk\R&B. Other than music, it involves some work in a guitar store fixing them and nature interaction by gardening while at the same time enjoying the attraction of visual art.
The interview briefly deals with the problem of being heard in modern music, where Rose dreams an industry possible without dirty feelings but driven by love. The title of the latest work, “Blue Moon,” perfectly conveys what listeners are about to hear.
In the future, Rose mentions release stimuli – another single in spring and EP. To the fans, a heartfelt thank you: Stay tuned tomorrow for more! Rose Haven Motor Hotel is your ticket to a sonic adventure even as you sit back and relax.
Is there a story behind your stage name? Not as much a story as just a feeling/aesthetic. It calls back to the vintage highway motels scattered through the midwest/western United States. It’s meant to convey an aesthetic of rugged highway nostalgia & represent the neverending road to an ambiguous destination.
Where do you find inspiration? I find my inspiration in a wide range of musical styles and eras. Anything that makes you feel something. Whether that’s a sound, a look, a memory, whatever.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? Music has always been a big part of my life. It began with singing and a particular interest in harmony, encouraged by my father. Guitar & drums came next, making use of a natural sense for rhythm & melody. Then songwriting & music production became a passion starting in high school.
Music has always been a big part of my life.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? My father has always been an active singer, my great grandmother had a piano in her house & played by ear (like I do now with the guitar), and other members of my extended family have had stints with different instruments or bands when they were younger.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? No one in particular, I think. Music has a pull I will never be able to get away from, so it only made sense. I also came up seeing an unprecedented era of creativity and independence from artists I loved and looked up to like Frank Ocean, Fleet Foxes, Local Natives, Big KRIT (from my home state)
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? Much of what I’ve learned musically has been self taught by ear – taking the music I loved and finding ways to make it come alive in my hands. I took guitar lessons for a few months as a kid until the teacher showed me a technique to figure out songs by just listening, which is all I really needed.
I played drums through school, which really honed a sense of natural rhythm. My writing is always just a study and attempt to emulate writers I look up to and try to convey feeling the way they can.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? I’ve been to so many, I’m not sure. But I grew up in church, so it was probably a group performing there!
How could you describe your music? My music soaks up the tones, sounds & feelings of everything I’ve always been into. It’s a combination of so many things. Songs like Blue Moon & Nebraska may have shades of vintage country & folk, but the next songs may carry more of a modern indie rock sound. Then another release may use more dark pop elements or old school funk/R&B.
Describe your creative process. Most of my songs start with a chord progression or melody and build from there. The words sort of fill themselves in to fit the feeling of what I’m hearing.
What is your main inspiration? My main inspiration is really just all of music and the incredible power it has on the human brain & body.
What musician do you admire most and why? So many, for many different reasons! Artists like Frank Ocean for unparalleled creativity, musicians like Stevie Wonder for sheer talent, writers like Robin Pecknold of Fleet Foxes for a beautiful mastery of language, and people like Madison Cunningham for these things and a unique use of tone in the production of her music.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? It has evolved greatly. It has always been a unique combination of the wide variety of styles I listen to, so it will probably always be evolving.
Who do you see as your main competitor? I don’t really view other artists as competitors. If anything, my competitor would just be the challenge of getting my music out to the world!
What are your interests outside of music? I love the guitar in music but also as the physical instrument itself. I work at a guitar store repairing guitars all day. I also have a strong passion for nature & gardening and for visual art.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? I would either go all in on guitar repair/building, or I would figure out a way to be a small scale farmer/gardener.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? The biggest challenge in today’s music world, especially when you don’t live in a major city, is just being heard. It can be very difficult to be noticeable in a sea of constant new media from all directions.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? It would be the same thing that would cure most industries – the removal of greed as the driving force for decisions.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? Obviously, it comes from the lyrics, but I think it conveys the general vibe you can expect from the song.
What are your plans for the coming months? Over the next few months, I will actually have another single coming out and an EP planned for the Spring.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans I am regularly collaborating with many of my favorite local artists & friends.
What message would you like to give to your fans? Thank you for listening and stick around for more!
Tally Koren's "We Are Builders of A Different World": A Melodic Beacon of Hope
In a world often shadowed by stories of discord and calamity, Tally Koren‘s “We Are Builders of A Different World” emerges as a beacon of melodic hope, an anthem for the enduring spirit. Infused with gravitas through its poignant inception inspired by Rabbi Benji Stanley’s sermon amidst the early tremors of war in Ukraine, this single transcends music; it becomes a testament to human resilience.
Tally Koren turns wisdom into verse against the backdrop of a haunting melody that carries whispers from distant lands—Israel, Palestine, Ukraine—where celebrations are mingled with sirens. The track reverberates with both the solidarity found within grief and gusto breathed into prayerful notes. Each chord seems meticulously crafted—not just arranged but built like bricks in a sanctuary for peace.
Listeners sail on flowing verses towards an unavoidable confrontation with humanity’s shared pains and aspirations. There is no denying Koren’s place in this conversation: she stands not just as an artist but also as an ambassador *par excellence* for reconciliation—a role shaped over ten years’ dedication to Middle Eastern peace efforts.
“There is not a quick fix for a brutal war, but now more than ever, where there is division, there must be a vision for reconciliation for the new generations. We must have the courage, to work together, choosing to build bridges and educate from a young age to eliminate hate.
My dream is to open an Orphanage for Palestinian and Israeli children”. – Tally Koren
In her lyrics lies distilled sincerity—”We pray today to end this painful dissonance.”—a powerful plea paired perfectly with instrumentation that blooms from somber reflection into heartening optimism. It reflects not only current affairs’ volatility but also resounds with echoes from protests songs past — think Dylan-esque times reimagined through contemporary strife.
Tally Koren’s “We Are Builders of A Different World”: A Melodic Beacon of Hope
“We Are Builders Of A Different World” isn’t just heard; it’s felt—an emotional journey where global tribulation meets individual reflection. It doesn’t simply capture emotions—it cradles them gently, offering solace and inspiring change.
Tally Koren is indeed peace personified; her music does what sermons aim for—it quietly transforms listeners into believers…believers who hold hammers made of hope ready to build alongside her chords that construct bridges across chasms torn by conflict.
And so we listen again—because in every note thrums potential wrought from desperation—and find ourselves harmonizing tentatively at first before robustly joining this orchestral rallying cry for unity resonating far beyond studio walls or critic’s pages to touch steeled hearts waiting… building alight anew.
"Dances You Absorbed": Marginalia's Debut Single Illuminates the Night
In the realm of cathartic nightlife anthems, Marginalia’s first single “Dances You Absorbed” is a pulsating neon-lit invitation into an intimate musical soiree. From its opening moments, where playful whistles mimic a phantom ringtone, there’s an immediate beckoning into a soundscape that gleams with the sheen of modernity and wax nostalgic for dance floors past.
Veronica Baron’s vocals emerge like siren calls from an urban lighthouse—immediate yet ethereal—as Brett Cairns and Matt Legge weave their electronic tapestry beneath her. The trio arches over synth-waves while trickling beats crescendo into what can only be described as an uplifting house beat destined to keep spirits skybound until the early hours.
The heart of “Dances You Absorbed” from Marginalia lies in its storytelling; each lyric unfolds another chapter in this night-bloomed fairy tale about fleeting connections that acquire permanence through music and rhythm. It feels as though these strangers-cum-friends have been painted vividly against the backdrop of a festive metropolis—their silhouettes stamped onto your memory amidst flashes of strobe lights.
“Dances You Absorbed”: Marginalia’s Debut Single Illuminates the Night
As you delve deeper into the track, one cannot help but recall the iconic echoes of club giants like Disclosure mingled with heartfelt indie pop vocal stylings not dissimilar to CHVRCHES. Yet, Marginalia carves out their niche ingeniously within those parallels, offering something both familiar and refreshingly individualistic—a reminder that we’re all partaking in shared human narratives across time and space when we lose ourselves on the dance floor.
“Dances You Absorbed” manages to thread emotionality seamlessly alongside infectious grooves designed to lead listeners through nocturnal revelry with optimistic abandonment. This sonic gem sparkles most brightly perhaps due to its life-affirming promise: no matter how evanescent our encounters might be under disco balls’ revolutions or flickers from DJ booths, they leave imprints—a collective mosaic crafted by spontaneity turned serendipitous choreography by wayward dancers seizing joyous truths found between beats drops.
Anchored firmly by Baron’s emotive charge even as synthetic reverb saturates Cairns’ intricate assembly line rhythms and tangles within Legge’s crafted shimmers—Marginalia gifts us more than just sounds arranged neatly—they pulse forward gifting movement imbued within every absorbed reverberation hinting towards dawn yet cherishing dusk’s shadows still clinging at feet gliding unburdened; ’tis nothing less than magic pressed playfully between digital fingerprints—an earnest debut dancing brilliantly upon today’s synthesized constellations.
Rocking Through History: Gary Dranow's Epic "Hadrian's Wall"
Searing through the fabric of musical time, Gary Dranow and The Manic Emotions’ latest single “Hadrian’s Wall,” off their forthcoming album “Never Give Up,” stands as a monumental testament to storytelling in rock. As much a historical expedition as it is an emotional odyssey, the track hurls you back to 122 AD Britain with all the fury and contemplation of a Roman soldier stationed at the divisive barricade.
The band—Dranow joined by the virtuosic Chris Zoupa, steady-handed Jason Jones, multifaceted Roman Burda, brooding Klim Apalkov, and impassioned Roman Kuznetsov—launches into a sonic assault that deftly fuses rock’s rawness with blues’ soulfulness and metal’s high-octane energy. Each pluck of string or strike of drum beat carves out sounds reminiscent of Hendrix’s audacious flair, Vaughn’s deep south appeal, blended with Metallica’s impenetrable armor.
At its core “Hadrian’s Wall” isn’t just mere musing about antiquity; it throbs with today—a kaleidoscope spinning themes of searing love against icy heartbreak while skirmishing through modern social issues like fierce Pictish warriors. It straddles two worlds that echo each other: one ancient under relentless gray skies upon bleak yet stoic stoneworks; another contemporary within our own mental landscapes marked by similar fights for love amid personal battles.
Rocking Through History: Gary Dranow’s Epic “Hadrian’s Wall”
Gary Dranow serves both as bard and raconteur here—”Hadrian´s Wall” delivers more than just sound waves reverberating off battered shields but resonates deeply on waves crashing onto shores dismissive ears can no longer ignore. One feels not only privy to historical insights woven throughout but also impelled towards self-reflection—the myriad struggles that piece together life’s mosaic tableau evident in every guitar note bleeding persistence.
With this offering culled from eras apart yet bound by human strife are countless journeys—from Hadrian’s harsh frontiers relegated now to tourist footpaths—to paths we tread daily where every decision etches itself into hard-fought stories compelling enough to sing aloud. Yes listeners take heed: whether rocking mightily through labyrinths inside or stone walls without—you are armed capably against trials ahead so long as “Never Give Up” echoes in your fervent chorus.
“Hadrian´s Wall” is less a song than an animate scroll unfurling before earnest eyes—a declaration punctuated not solely by chords struck hot but hearts charged resolutely unto dawn breaking over rowdy campsites or quiet bedrooms alike where wars rage silently beneath skin still wondering what dreams may come once they brave stepping forth beyond those barriers which confine them so tautly wrought.
Bromsen's Sonic Odyssey: Unmasking the Depth Behind 'Someone'
In the ever-oscillating world of music, where nostalgia often collides with futurism, “Someone” by Bromsen emerges as a beacon—exquisitely demonstrating that intersection. From their Berlin-based enclave, Richard and Karlo Bromsen channel both indie rock’s raw grit and synth-pop’s polished rhythms to craft a sound distinctly their own.
With “Someone,” a track from the forthcoming album “Brothers in Mind,” set to drop like musical manna on February 16th, 2024, Bromsen offers an auditory odyssey through the terra incognita of self. The track is less about discovery and more about revelation—a confession underscored by digitized beats that somehow feel entirely human.
Throughout this electrifying single, there echoes the spirit of Luka Bloom—an artist celebrated for his unalloyed authenticity—a thematic guiding star for our beleaguered protagonists. It’s an invocation to embrace one’s full spectrum truth just as Bloom reinvented himself from Barry Moore into Luka Bloom.
Cue in the pulsing rhythm section overlaid with ethereal synthesizers that pay homage to ’80s power anthems while managing not be enslaved by them. Throughout “Someone,” you can detect echoes of electronica-infused acts like MGMT mingling comfortably alongside shades reminiscent of The Killers’ vibrant energy or even Phoenix’s slick melodic lines.
The vocals oscillate between introspective whisperings and emphatic declarations; they’re fervent without begging sympathy—a balanced emotional tenor that evokes Hozier if he traded his haunting forests for urban neon lights. Through it all runs the current of conviction—the courage required not only to seek oneself but also to stand unmoved when found.
Bromsen’s Sonic Odyssey: Unmasking the Depth Behind ‘Someone’
Lyrically poignant without courting pretense, every verse serves as a testimonial against facades alike those shed by Mr. Bloom himself—from moody verses brimming with wanderlust right up until its rousing chorus demanding existential liberation—it begs repeated listens purely out of respect for its depth disguised in simplicity.
Bromsen marries yesteryear charm with contemporary resonance in such a feat that it feels neither derivative nor fleeting—it sits within time yet speaks directly across epochs like vinyl crackle made digital; recognition wrapped within innovation.
Despite having formed nearly two decades ago under another name before wearing today’s mantle proudly upon reuniting—they demonstrate no evidence here but urgent freshness heavy with experience—”Someone” assures us: we are witnessing not just talent reborn but refined; promising indeed what might lie ahead on their upcoming album release—the journey down vibrant corridors leading confidently into perhaps sharpest clarity yet.
In essence? If you savour your tunes richly textured—imbued simultaneously with heartache and euphoria—consider “Someone” by Bromsen your new canticle which declares boldly: To be oneself is perhaps life’s grandest adventure after all.
Michelle Lockey's Vulnerable Dive: “Why Don't They Choose Me?”
In the textured tapestry of indie folk, Michelle Lockey’s latest single, “Why Don’t They Choose Me?” is a raw and tender stitch that pulls at the heartstrings. A lonesome acoustic resonance sets the stage for Lockey’s crystalline vocals—the kind that sneaks through your defenses and finds a way to nestle deep within.
There’s an understated magic conjured by Stephen Joseph Antonelli who, as a one-man orchestra behind Lockey’s pensive poetry, weaves layers of instrumentation into an emotive backdrop. With each pluck of the guitar string and hush of the cymbal sweep, he caresses out lingering nuances from her vocal cadence—turning what could merely be notes into palpable sentiments. Every element reflects profound craftsmanship; it’s mixed and mastered not just with technical precision but palpable empathy for Locky’s haunting tales.
Narrating achingly personal struggles wrought from childhood trauma, our protagonist confronts them head-on in “Why Don’t They Choose Me?”, seeking solace in self-acceptance rather than external validation. It’s an anthem for those weathered by early storms yet offers a gentle reminder: sometimes choosing oneself is where true healing begins.
Michelle Lockey’s Vulnerable Dive: “Why Don’t They Choose Me?”
Lockey isn’t new to this rodeo—with six albums under her belt—and it shows. Her confidence in storytelling through melody has blossomed further here while maintaining intimacy reminiscent of counterparts like Iron & Wine or earlier Joni Mitchell confessions over coffeehouse acoustics.
Lyrically poignant and sonically soothing despite its sorrowful core message, this track belongs to both moments of reflection on lazy afternoons and introspective nights beneath starry skies—an easy-listening companion when solitude seeks understanding company.
As part of her upcoming album “Dig Deeper,” which promises to dive into life regrets and revelations alike, “Why Don’t They Choose Me?” feels emblematic—a brave plunge into cool introspective waters before inevitably coming up for air amidst personal discovery.
Listeners will find themselves returning like waves to the shore—ensnared by Michelle Lockey’s melodic musings on such depths often left unexplored but undeniably resonant inside many yearning souls.
BUKVE's "Alive": An Ode to Existential Musings and Inner Odyssey
In the fabric of today’s music scene, where anthems often eclipse introspection, BUKVE stitches a thread of contemplative resonance with his latest single “Alive.” The Norwegian troubadour weaves a rich tapestry of existential musings that mirror many a modern soul’s unvoiced yearnings. Not merely alive but pulsating with the undercurrents of an inner odyssey, this guitar-based alternative indie pop/rock offering is as much a deft stroke on canvas as it is an auditory feast.
With “Alive,” BUKVE takes the helm like an old friend steering us through foggy seas, melancholically questioning life’s tepid waters in search for purpose and passion. Each strum and chorus echoes against the backdrop of our own echo chambers—have we truly tried? Are we simply existing or living fully? His candid, male vocals become both confessor and confidante; they don’t just drip into your ears but seep into your thoughts long after the last note fades.
Stamos Koliousis captures lightning in a bottle at Black Valley Studios with production that doesn’t overshadow but accents every intangible nuance BUKVE lays bare. This isn’t studio alchemy to gawk at; it’s craftsmanship honoring raw honesty over engineered perfection.
This composition might remind some avid listeners of Radiohead’s thought-provoking lyricism meshed with Jeff Buckley’s haunting vulnerability. Yet within these familiar threads lies originality—a voice not echoing peers but acknowledging them while carving out its secretive caverns in Oslo’s musicscape.
BUKVE’s “Alive”: An Ode to Existential Musings and Inner Odyssey
“Alive” strikes chords reminiscent of gray Scandinavian skies breaking at dawn; there’s something quintessentially European about its essence yet universally relatable in spirit. It dances around self-imposed limitations and brushes past you like cobblestone whispers reminding passersby—life awaits outside routines’ iron grip.
And perhaps most tantalizingly for fans new and seasoned alike is what “Alive” heralds—the nascent inklings ushering forth from what promises to be a crescendo culminating in Spring 2024: A full album waiting beneath surface ripples this stirring single has sent skittering across our anticipatory ponds.
Untie yourself from cautionary moorings then, dear listener—for when music beckons such honest reflection amidst melodies crafting warmth even out of wistfulness—it deserves more than passive hearing; it commands sentient feeling. With shoulders squared against the squall ahead, sail forth into BUKVE’s stormy heart—one would wager you emerge all the more ‘alive’ from having braved such soulful tempests.
Winter Tale Unveiled: Claudia Balla's 'White Bird' Takes Flight
In the poetic tapestry of Claudia Balla’s latest offering, “White Bird,” from her enchanting album “Winter Tale,” we are invited into a melodious introspection on the fragility and wildness of love. The Swiss songstress, known for weaving ethereal piano ballads with indie folk charm, cradles us in a slow-burning musical embrace that’s at once comforting and compelling.
Balla’s ability to sculpt emotions into sound is nowhere more evident than in this single. She compares love to an ephemeral white bird—a motif layered with tenderness and tumultuous potential—both fragile enough to shatter hearts yet vital as the centerpiece of peace. As the imagery suggests: just like dove against stormclouds, love pulses through turmoil – unpredictable but foundational.
With its indie-folk heartbeat shadowed by richly woven female vocals, “White Bird” encapsulates that deeply relaxing ambiance apt for echoing across rainy afternoons or crystalline snowy evenings alike. Breath-taking choral backing lifts Balla’s delicate voice high above whispered guitar strums—the wings upon which this ivory symbol takes flight.
Winter Tale Unveiled: Claudia Balla’s ‘White Bird’ Takes Flight
Engaging listeners with storytelling prowess akin to Florence Welch meeting Joni Mitchell beneath a moonlit sky, Claudia wraps vulnerability around strength without forfeiting one over the other; it breaks even as it heals. This hypnotic carousel dances around themes of release and captivity within emotionally charged lyrics against sparse instrumentation that is anything but simple—it’s raw sophistication personified.
Despite its soothing tempo, there runs an undercurrent of energy throughout “White Bird,” pulsating quietly as if mandating introspection from those who truly listen—an invitation granted sparingly except through nuanced artistry such as this.
Claudia Balla grants us a winter tale not merely told but felt—a little shard-of-glass heartache beautifully bound up in reassurances soft as down feathers left behind by our fleeting titular visitor. In ingesting the story embedded within “White Bird,” expect your own soul-seeking journey marked by notes so tender they radiate long after silence has had its say.
Proklaim's 'Permission': A Rhythmic Revolution in Hip-Hop
I have paid keen attention to the sounds of Proklaim, and I can beat my chest and say he is one of the hardworking musicians out there, he does this with every song he releases. But this time he has taken a turn from the usuals with his latest track, “Permission“.
“Permission” is more of a journey that sets the room ablaze with fire beats and rap charisma. This Namibian artist, at the tender age of 19, needs no permission to infiltrate your playlist, and he solidifies this with each quality track he drops. “Permission” is no exception, and Proklaim lives up to his own legacy with this one.
Right from the start, Proklaim hits you with Afro beats, giving a nod to his regional roots. But here’s the magic – he seamlessly weaves it into the global pop landscape, creating a track that’s both familiar and innovative. The lyrics focus on loyalty and respect, making it an anthem that could light up any dance floor, be it a buzzing club or a laid-back house party.
The fusion of Afro beats with Amapiano brings a cultural richness that’s hard to resist. Influenced by rap legends like Nas and Tupac, Proklaim’s lyrical prowess shines through with clarity and precision.
What makes “Permission” stand out isn’t just its infectious beats but also its fearless genre fusion. Proklaim takes a bold leap, mixing Afro beats with Amapiano to redefine rap. It’s a rhythmic masterpiece that invites you to nod your head, feel the vibes, and get lost in the charismatic delivery.
But it’s not just about the beats. this is a statement, a testament to Proklaim’s commitment to pushing boundaries in hip-hop. It’s not just a track; it’s an experience that showcases Proklaim’s dedication to evolving the genre while staying true to its roots.
“Permission” is a rhythmic journey that breaks barriers and redefines what hip-hop can be. So, give yourself the permission to dive into this track, let the beats guide you, and experience the evolution of Proklaim’s unique sound.
Billie Skye's Musical Diary: Insights into 'Amorous Mirage
Billie Skye is an Aussie chica from Byron Bay, releasing her first EP “Amorous Mirage” at the age of nineteen. This four-track ride is like a music journey connecting R&B with little pop, blues and funk. Billie’s singing and subtle tone in songs like “lover boy” evoke a feeling that grips you, refusing to let go.
In our interview with Billie, she lets the cat out of the bag on how he was brought up in a musical family through which songs linked off everyone. Being the daughter of a musician, Billie has been writing poetry since childhood; it was just natural to add guitar chords and melodies.
The music of Billie is about being genuine. R&B drums but pop anthems- what sets her apart is the authentic mood. She is inspired by artists like Raveena and Sade, who have their style in which you immediately recognize it.
“Amorous Mirage” is not merely songs but the heart and truth of Billie. In our conversation, she discusses why chose that title talking about desire and the difficult aspects of relationships.
Going forward Billie wants to perform on a stage and in the future she would love more collab. For her audiences, she is super grateful for the love and affection they offer in every step of her music career.
The EP Amorous Mirage has four songs on it, all the songs are unique and interesting. Now lean back and chill with us in this Billie Skye conversation. It is all about her first EP, real talk, and the kind of music that cuts into your soul. Just prepare to dive into the sounds of “Amorous Mirage” and see why Billie’s music is so irresistible.
Is there a story behind your stage name? – There isn’t a good story behind my stage name apart from me just resonating more with Skye then my last name.
Where do you find inspiration – inspiration is everywhere, my outer and inner worlds are always tangled together to create connections and deep understandings. My relationships both platonic and romantic have always been the biggest source though.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
– music was a way to connect in my younger years. It bought community and family together where words would sometimes fall short. It seemed to be the best way for intimate connection without having to get overly vulnerable.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? – yes, both. Creativity seamlessly weaves itself through my family in different ways with my papa being a musician and my Mum just this expansive creative. I have writers, ceramicists, photographers and my siblings have an openness to explore all different creative avenues.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? – I believe I would have always been apart of some creative industry but my papa definitely inspired me to choose music.
I believe I would have always been apart of some creative industry
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? – I was always writing, I had books filled of poetry and random lyrics since i can remember. I have always been attracted to lyricism it it’s rawness so I guess it only made sense to pair it with a guitar and some Melodies.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? – I grew up watching my papa at locals pubs and bigger festivals, but the first concert I really remember seeing was Kendrick Lamar at our local blues festival in 2016, I had just turned 12 and got to go with friends. It was truly special.
How could you describe your music? – My music could be described as R&B beats with pop melodies. I hope what really sets my music apart though is its authenticity and rawness. Every lyric and melody in ‘Amorous Mirage’ is a genuine reflection of my heart and truth.
Describe your creative process.
– As I briefly explained above my love of lyricism was definitely a driving force into music, so that usually starts my creative process. So I’m either in the studio or with my guitar freestyle melodies with my poems in hand. The verses always come to me before the chorus, maybe it because I enjoy telling a story, I’m to to sure.
What is your main inspiration? – Like I said before, just my connections with people and places.
What musician do you admire most and why? – I have a lot of musicians I admire; Raveena, Orion Sun, Eloise, Sade, ASAP Rocky, Amy Whinehouse, Armani Caesar + more. They all carry such an original flare that translates throughout all there work. It’s this idea that you can be recognised just by your sound and the way you own your craft.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? – my style is constantly evolving as I grow and change. I hope one day to have a really defined sound though.
Who do you see as your main competitor? – I have never thought about it. I hope my music becomes authentic and original enough it’s in its own lane entirely.
What are your interests outside of music? – I love reading, surfing, film photography and seeing different parts of the world.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? – I am particularly drawn to the art of event curation, where creativity meets strategic planning. The concept of crafting unique event experiences, from initial ideation to execution, fascinates me.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? – I’m not entirely sure, maybe not being in safe spaces when co-writing or finding the right people to play with.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? – I worry about the impact artificial intelligence will have on the industry.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? – Amorous Mirage captures the delicate balance of sexual desire and the longing for intimacy, harmonizing with the illusionary aspects of mirage, representing the smoke and mirrors of reality. The name challenges the notion of reducing a relationship to mere lust, emphasizing the realization that viewing it solely through that lens does injustice to the depth within
What are your plans for the coming months? – hopefully playing live music and writing more.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans – nothing set in stone but I love co-writing, so hopefully more of that in my future.
What message would you like to give to your fans?
– Anyone who has listened to my music and enjoyed it or felt something. Thank you. Your support means the world to me.
GET AWAY and Beyond: A Chat with Jack Austin on Music and More
I think you would side with me when I say Jack Austin is not just any musician, let me tell you why, let us use his latest single to ‘Get Away’ to explain. This single stands unique “GET AWAY” isn’t just a song; it’s like a mixtape of life’s ups and downs.
Jack Austin was born and raised in Battle Creek, MI, Jack’s music is a blend of pop, rock, indie, alternative, and folk. It is interesting how he is able to blend all this genres and produce something extra ordinary out of it. Well, if you’re wondering who Jack is, he’s not just a singer, but a total package – actor, performer, recording artist – you name it.
With ‘GET AWAY,’ is like a musical sunset train, with electric guitar strums, thumping bass, and drums racing at full speed. Jack’s voice is the glue that holds it all together, hitting high notes and low tones like a boss.
We got the chance to have an interview with Jack Austin and also talk about his latest single “GET AWAY”. In this chat with Jack, we’re digging into his roots, finding out how music shaped his life from his early choir days to rocking out in high school. Jack spills the beans on his inspirations, struggles with writer’s block, and how he keeps it real in an industry that sometimes expects you to be something you’re not.
So, grab a seat and join us for a chat with Jack Austin – the guy who’s turning music into a journey you’ll want to take over and over again.
Where do you find inspiration? I find inspiration in listening to all types of genres of music to pull from when writing my own songs. I find inspiration in versatile songwriters who find ways to tell stories with many different sounds and emotions.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? Music has always had a huge role in my life. I’ve been singing my whole life but I really started to sing when I joined choir in the fifth grade. Since then, my love for music has only grown as I continued to pursue singing, songwriting, acting, and a life in the performing arts. Music and songwriting have played a huge part in shaping me into the person and performer I am today.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? I am not.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? I’ve always had dreams of pursuing music from a young age. I loved the idea of providing a sense of belonging to others through music. To share emotions, thoughts, and wonders through song. I grew up listening to songs that had lasting effects on me and made me feel seen, and I wanted to be able to give that back through my own music.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? I first remember writing songs for the first time in the shower when I was super young. I thought it was so fun to play around with melodies. They weren’t anything special at that stage in my life and I could not recall how any of them went today, but it was my introduction to songwriting.
Then in middle school, I started to dabble in production software and loops and making songs on that software. But, in high school, it all started to piece together. I would write on the guitar, which is my favorite instrument to start writing on, and was finally putting together full cohesive songs.
I first remember writing songs for the first time in the shower when I was super young.
How could you describe your music? I would describe my music as versatile. You’ll never know what my next release might sound like. I write what I feel in my heart and sometimes that means I’m pushing out pop songs, singer-songwriter, rock, folk, etc. You just never know what it might sound like, but it is always authentic to what I am feeling.
Describe your creative process. I am almost never able to sit down and say “Okay, I’m going to write a song”. It just never works. I have to find a reason to write. From there I am usually able to write out a whole song, if not a majority of it. If the songwriting flows out of me naturally, I know that song is a keeper.
What is your main inspiration? My main inspirations are my parents who endlessly love and support me. I owe all my success to them as they have always supported me and my musical endeavors.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? My musical style is always evolving. My genre is always changing. One day I’m writing a pop folk song and the next I’m writing a rock ballad. I think that’s a good thing.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? I’ll always be performing. Whether it be singing or acting I will always be performing. I would also love to educate other young performers as well. I was truly shaped into the performer I am today by the amazing educators I had along the way and I would love to return that favor in some form someday.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? I’d say the biggest problem in my journey of music so far has been writer’s block. Trying to force music and storytelling out of myself when it’s just not there in that current moment. I’ve learned to let it come naturally.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? I would change the expectations. I would like to see a music industry where you don’t have to conform to anything, anyone, or any sound. I think the industry would flourish on authenticity.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? I chose “GET AWAY” as the title of this project because I love the idea of push-and-pull storytelling in this song. And I thought “GET AWAY” summed that up perfectly. I couldn’t see it as any other title.
What are your plans for the coming months? I’ve been writing a ton of music recently. The next song I release is going to be much different than “GET AWAY”, but still have a familiar sound. I am also excited to be on an upcoming cast album of the new musical, Boy on Billboard, and also be a part of the show’s New York City debut. So many things to look forward to!
What message would you like to give to your fans? My message is to be kind always. Kindness always wins and will get you so far in life.
Michael Ellery's "Save Me": Inner Strength and Healing
In an era where music is often a click away, lost in the ether of digital banality, there arises from the depths of innovation a song that doesn’t just demand attention—it commands it. Michael Ellery’s “Save Me,” delivered through the nurturing embrace of EVEN.biz’s artist-centric platform, does precisely this. It emerges not as merely another track but as an auditory experience waiting to be unfurled like a map to emotional liberation.
Released on January 12th exclusively on EVEN.biz—a contemporary oasis for music lovers and creators alike—“Save Me” offers listeners more than ephemeral entertainment; it extends its hand as an invitation into community. With options to acquire the instrumental, an alternate version, and even stems alongside the single itself, it thrives as both symphony and syllabus for those eager to learn its intricate notes.
Michael Ellery’s “Save Me”: Inner Strength and Healing
The triad formed by Ty Avery’s rap alchemy from Louisiana, Jessica Turner’s Utah-bred jazz-tones, and Michael Ellery’s cinematic/pop production brilliance elevates “Save Me” beyond genre-confinements. Classified intriguingly as cinematic/hip-hop/soul pop—the sonic equivalent of global fusion cuisine—it tantalizes with rhythms that resonate with our collective pulse whilst lyrics hold up mirrors reflecting generational echoes.
The trio finds harmonic symmetry within their musical diversity; Ty Avery weaves verses dense with personal narratives over a score that breathes life back into elements inherently familiar yet daringly rearranged. Meanwhile, Jessica Turner infuses soul directly into each note—her voice crafting melodies which undulate between comfort and challenge—and all at once encapsulates sorrowful elegy and defiant anthem rooted in kinetic hopefulness.
Michael Ellery’s “Save Me”: Inner Strength and Healing
As you traverse “Save Me,” each beat becomes steeped in texture akin to urban streets under golden hour light—an atmosphere combining grittiness with transcendental beauty reminiscent of conscious hip-hop titans meeting poetic jazz crooners serenading atop Mount Olympus itself.
Ellery positions us face-to-face with generational trauma—not through somber ballads—but via battle cries imploring inner strength against inherited adversities festering within our bloodlines; his message crafts swords from scars meant for cutting ties binding us undeservingly to cycles needing cessation.
Once January 26th rolls around, heralding the widespread release across popular streaming giants—visually less quaint than EVEN.biz but no less grand in their reach—”Save Me” will find fertile ground anew. It will grow rampant through countless speakers worldwide, transforming casual listeners into ardent disciples. These beats are designed not just for feet or whimsy but with a deliberate purpose: to propel us forward, to elevate heartbeats toward the untapped potential lying dormant among generations—past, present, and future—forever interwoven in an impossibly complex, simply orchestral, and priceless tapestry. “Save me,” indeed. If only every listen could heal wounds across the world… if only.
Since 2015, Xavier Diaz and Nathan Tamburro joined forces to perform under the moniker “Sweet Arrow”, and they are making waves in Australia with their latest release “Hold On,” reflecting on the young artists’ development. The voice of Xavier is emotional and strong; it immediately engages a listener, while layers from Nathan’s guitar add the sharp progressive sound impact. Production ensures its long-term sound effect.
However, Hold On extends beyond the mere melody and ventures into exploring Sweet Arrow’s growth as musicians. The band has described the lyrics as intelligent, one with which listeners can easily associate themselves and simultaneously provides a somewhat upbeat feel with pleasant guitar riffs. “Hold On” one draws attention to their flexibility which combines rock with alternative, pop and funk without a hitch.
In a recent interview with Mister Styx of Musicarenagh , Sweet Arrow reveals their name and apparently they want to surprise the listeners with something pleasant, like by shooting an arrow. Riding on the inspiration from life, their creative enterprise involves Nathan providing music backlog that cues melodies and lyrics development by Xavier.
Apart from music, Xavier enjoys mountain biking and hiking can point out to a deep-rooted sense of nature. Although not working as musicians, their motivation comes from passion rather than earning.
‘Hold On’ means way more than its title indicates, sending a much greater message of power and endurance. In the future, for 2024 Sweet Arrow has plans to release additional singles; “Taking My Girl” is scheduled in March for release.
In appreciation of the continued support from their fans, sweet Arrow thank them for looking forward to what is coming up.
Listen to Hold On below
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Is there a story behind your stage name? We believe that our music will speak to certain people and inspire them. So we are making music specifically targeting those people, whoever they may be. We are targeting them like an arrow, with the intention of hitting them with something good. Hence the name Sweet Arrow.
Where do you find inspiration? Inspiration is the music. I am very fortunate to work with a composer whose music inspires my lyrics.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? I always loved music. I always loved singing from an early age.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? Music was always enjoyed in my family. My parents were music lovers, so I grew up listening to their favourite artists.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? Jamming with my mates led to the inspiration to take musical ideas and fashion them into completed recorded songs.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? Self taught.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform? I went to a Midnight Oil concert with my father when I was 11. I was blown away by their energy and the atmosphere in that theatre can only be described as electric.
How could you describe your music? We play various genres from Rock, Alternative, Pop and Funk.
Describe your creative process. Nathan the composer brings his music to the table and there are certain chord progressions that just speak to me. They inspire a melody within me. Then I put words to that melody and off we go.
What is your main inspiration? Life itself.
What musician do you admire most and why? I admire all musicians who are dedicated to their craft. It’s a beautiful thing to speak the language of your soul and share it with the world.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
Yes, it’s constantly evolving.
Who do you see as your main competitor? I believe the only competitor one has is themselves and their own doubts, insecurities, and fears.
What are your interests outside of music? I like mountain bike riding and hiking. I live not too far from some great national parks where I like to spend my free time re-energizing in nature.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? I have a career outside of music which is great because it means that the music we create, is not for money but for love.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? Collaborating with other artists can be challenging. It requires patience, humility and good listening skills. When you get it right though, it is so rewarding because you get to be part of something so much bigger than what you could ever create on your own. Which means that you get to share your victories with those who were in the battle with you.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? The removal of those entities who look to take advantage of artists for their own personal gain.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? The title Hold On was chosen because that is the main lyric in the chorus and it fits with the theme of the song. Which is to never give up on life, irrespective of the challenges one is facing.
What are your plans for the coming months? We are looking forward to releasing more singles throughout 2024. Our next single – Taking My Girl is in the final stages of mixing and should be released around March some time.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans. I look forward to continuing working with a very talented composer, Nathan Tamburro. Who just does not stop creating infectious riffs and contagious rhythms.
What message would you like to give to your fans? Thank you for your support. We really appreciate it!
Smooth Sailing: Klein & Jamison's Emotional Odyssey in 'Sailing Symphony
Let me introduce you the music of Klein & Ian Jamison, this dynamic duo, have been cooking up tunes together since 2018. Their latest body of work with is an EP has four songs on it, and I can say this, this Ep is more than just musics. It’s a heartfelt shout-out to Waddy Garrett, a buddy of Klein’s and a sailor at heart.
Now let us talk about the songs.
I Sailaway
The opening track, “I. Sailaway,” is like the first chapter of a great book. It kicks off with a mix of synths, saxophones, and some top-notch piano skills. The first track, “Sailaway,” hits you with a powerful Double Bass, taking you on a ride through waves. The wind instruments add a soft texture, like you’re moving from the water to the desert in your mind. It’s a 15-and-a-half-minute journey that sticks with you, creating images and scenarios in your head.
he first track, “Sailaway,” hits you with a powerful Double Bass, taking you on a ride through waves.
What’s cool about it? Well, it’s got moments that make you feel all sorts of things – from sadness to thinking deep, and then, boom! At 3:34, it hits this powerful pause that leaves you hanging. It’s like they’re playing with your emotions, and it’s awesome.
II Doldrums:
“Doldrums” brings a different vibe, soaring with layers and dramatic tones. It’s like being suspended, waiting for something to happen. The next track, “III. Storm,” starts dreamy and peaceful, then BAM! It hits you with intense strings, like you’re caught in a storm. It’s all about building tension before unleashing the drama.
IV Ahoy
Now, “IV. Ahoy” is like the grand finale of a fireworks show. It’s all about bouncing back from tough times and celebrating victory. The piano and violin take center stage, creating this mix of joy and relief. It’s like they’re telling you, “Hey, storms happen, but we made it through, and it’s time to party.”
Closing with “IV. Ahoy,” it’s like a business finale. It means business and wraps up the EP with a bitter-sweetness. The track adds textures to the drama, leaving you with the image of someone standing at the end of a film.
There’s something magical about “Sailing Symphony.” Klein & Ian Jamison not only knows how to make music; they end up creating an experience that stays with you. The songs on the EP tug at your heartstrings and wrap you in a world of drama and textures, I wouldn’t like to escape.
The songs on the EP tug at your heartstrings and wrap you in a world of drama and textures, I wouldn’t like to escape.
“Sailing Symphony” is more than just an EP; it’s a shout-out and a musical journey that captures the spirit of sailing and friendship. With its catchy tunes and storytelling, this EP promises a touching experience. Don’t miss the chance to set sail with Klein & Jamison – it’s not just about the notes; it’s about the feels.
Straight-Up Rock Vibes: Livid.'s 'Downtown' Packs a Punch
Livid. Was created in South Florida back in 2020 with Gabriel Castrillo on vocals and guitar, Franklin Roca on bass and Victor Wong on drums. These fellows manufacture the old-fashioned rock and roll flavor, drawing inspiration from legends like Led Zeppelin, Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and Aerosmith.
This jam, “Downtown,” is a groover that has great bass licks and deadly high gain riffs. It has a kind of ‘80s feel yet with new vocals that somehow make you resemble bands like The Stone Roses. And of course, it’s got that cool-ass attitude you would expect from the genre.
These Livid. Men have been ripping it all around Broward County, working towards the release of their upcoming EP.. Personally, I am excited to see what kind of a dish this gourmet trio has prepared in their musical kitchen – tanned and brittle. Can’t wait for more Livid. rock vibes!
This Ep By Chris Rozik Is Definitely The 'Sure Thing' Check It Out
Chris Rozik is a fast rising music artist who is on a quest to share his feelings with the rest of the world, and there is no better way to do this, than to share it through his music. His latest Ep “Sure Thing” is a culmination of his heartfelt emotions and thoughts.
With years of musical experience up his belt you can be rest assured the songs on the Ep are going to have a different feel to it. His musical journey begun at 14 years, and he still continues this journey at 32 years old, you can sense his passion for music through his songs.
“Sure thing” has 3 songs on it, personally I would want more of this, the songs are way to nice, the emotions they carry can be felt in each song, each song has a special feel to it. Chris makes his own music, giving him the opportunity to experiment and be sure he produces the best songs.
The 3 songs on “Sure Thing” according to Chris was inspired by “getting married and thinking about familial dynamics during the marriage process.it also explores themes of identity and lack of absolutes in life.
Hop and enjoy some authentic music, something refreshing and emotive.
Lauren Eve Scheff's Debut: A Symphony of Emotions in "Nothing To Prove
Lauren Eve Scheff’s debut single shows that she has not only persevered but also is a gifted artist, able to break free from an art block introduced by the trauma. In “Nothing to Prove” the narrator not only converts ghost of heartbreak into mature awareness but also focuses on growth and self-acceptance using attractive yet enigmatic sonic pallet.
This composition is her testimony that artist Scheff was born in Nashville and could transform a character’s personal grief into a musical masterpiece showing enormous talent evolution.
The lyrics of the song is touching and carries much weight that sticks with the listener, there is a certain kind of nervousness that develops from the manipulation between synthesizers and guitars, which reveals this psycho aspects thereafter being heartbroken. The movements in the sound structure of this song are one which appeal to those who enjoy being drugged into a trance-like state similar to how someone so emotionally unstable can be.
She works together with her uncle Lauren James Scheff and a talented group including Jackson Price on acoustic guitar, Jake Bishop on electric guitar alongside the awesome mixing by Pete Eddins to highlight that music is also an element of inheritance within Scheffs blood.
HellRaizer's 'The Battle Within': A Fearless Journey Through the Psyche
In a furious but cathartic outpouring of gritty narrative, HellRaizer’s latest odyssey “The Battle Within” traverses the jagged terrain of human existence. This 12-track manifesto is not just an exploration; it’s a hard-fought war waged in lyric and beat where rapper Jeremy Moore, who has been honing his craft since Y2K fears were palpable, takes listeners on the most intimate tour yet through his psyche.
Crafted within the confinements of his own home studio—a space that feels simultaneously reminiscent of hip hop’s raw underground genesis and a shrine to personal pilgrimage—each track throbs with authenticity. The DIY ethos doesn’t hinder the quality but adds a layer of unfiltered realism as if each syllable reverberates directly off HellRaizer’s walls into our ears.
From life’s mundane pressures to its profound dilemmas, no stone is left unturned across “The Battle Within”. His lyrics are like graffiti on the soul; they’re colorful lamentations about family woes, money struggles, fleeting relationships and chasing peace while parenting in chiaroscuro shades between transitions from laborious days to restless nights.
HellRaizer’s ‘The Battle Within’: A Fearless Journey Through the Psyche
Yet despite this being HellRaizer’s eighth endeavor into discography, there is nothing stale or repetitious here. We get something akin to Kendrick Lamar’s introspective grit met with J Cole’s storytelling finesse – all delivered with an energy that harkens back to early Eminem angst without ever feeling derivative. Each song captures a chapter from Moore’s epic struggle for equilibrium – true musical bildungsromans set against contemporary beats that pulse with survivalist intensity.
“The Battle Within” isn’t merely listened to; it assays your emotional reserves much like reading Hemingway asks readers not only for attention but ‘to feel,’ albeit via modern synths replacing typewriters clacking away at human spirit narratives.
Through unapologetic authenticity and lyrical vulnerability married impeccably with the self-produced soundscape beneath them — these songs pierce commonality —beckoning us closer towards understanding others’ cacophonous journeys through stillness amidst chaos within ourselves. It may be called “The Battle Within,” but rest assured HellRaizer emerges triumphant throughout this commanding saga interpreted both specifically personal yet universally relatable in its sonic fightback against life’s ebbs and flows.
Jazz, Rock, and Hip-Hop Collide: The Intricate Harmony of Sound Liberation
Sound Liberation & Di. J. Quartet’s latest album is a blend of eclectic sounds and fearless experimentation that takes you through the musical journey toward myriad feelings like colors in a kaleidoscope, with each new song being completely different from others. The album starts off with a playful fanfare in the opening notes of “The Overtures” that soon turns into an electric guitar accompanied by horns and electronic samples, giving it orchestrated sound.
“Density Intensities” is similar in this regard: moody and ambient, coupled with an irresistibly groovy beat. With the inclusion of glitchy vocals that border on being rapped this stands out as a stylish piece. ManChartra is darker, with a cosmic feel and compelling trumpet lines that will pull the listener into an eerie odyssey—a standout.
“MMM” presents soulful 20th century blues vocals in a nostalgically beautiful setting. “Illusions Yet Again” blends ethereal tones with lo-fi hip-hop percussion, demonstrating the ability of this band to merge contrasting elements seamlessly. The peak of the album is reached with “Deep Time 2,” a folk-jazz song that has a glowing and tropical trace.
Sound Liberation & Di. Quartets are very commendable for their ability to break the boundaries of music while maintaining accessibility. Gene Pritsker and his quartet have created a sort of album that can not be categorized, using rock’s energy with the improvisation feel like in jazz music as well as hip-hop rhythm. ‘Each track serves as a proof of their musical talent , with an interesting aroma of surprise that accompanies the listener throughout.
The album has a total of 6 songs on it and spans over 42 mins and 46 secs, the first song on the album “The Overtures” is the lengthiest, but surprisingly the sound doesn’t bore you and before you realize the song has ended. I like the fact most of the songs on the album are long enough to enable the listener really soak into the soak.
This album isn’t simply another collection of songs; it is a sonic expedition that appreciates the charm of the enigmatic. Sound Liberation calls on you to enter the universe of energetic and dynamic music they create, every track holds a finished product waiting for exploration. If, however, you intend this year to branch out musically speaking – look no further because this album is a genius of experimental greatness.
Life Beyond the Mic: Natalia Quest's Passions and Pursuits
Allow me to introduce Natalia Quest. She is the Russian singer-songwriter who’s currently causing waves in LA. Her stage name, a fusion of her innate sense of adventure and the word ‘Quest,’ reflects a deliberate choice to encapsulate the essence of her journey through life and music.
“Inversion” delves into the depths of societal discord, wielding orchestral arrangements, gritty guitars, and haunting vocals to mirror the stark realities of our contemporary world. The song serves as both a commentary and a call to action, challenging listeners to confront the unsettling truths woven into the fabric of our existence.
But Natalia is not only about music; her dedication to human beings transcends studio boundaries. For instance, she recalls parting ways with her closest creative collegue, because she suddenly realized he was creating an Inversion for her on a personal level—sabotaging and inverting some of her most sincere creative expressions. If Natalia hadn’t exposed the Inversion in her personal microcosm, the song might never have been released. Therefore, shedding light on both personal and collective shadow aspects is her special gift.
Join us as we delve deeper into the life of this multi-talented musician.
When I recorded my first song several years ago, I also had to choose a name for my project. I asked myself, ‘What pseudonym or word could succinctly and metaphorically encapsulate the quintessence of my personality, experiences, and ever-evolving consciousness?’ And within a few days, the word ‘Quest’ confidently came to me.
Where do you find inspiration?
I don’t actively seek it… Inspiration comes spontaneously. Often, as a form of therapy during intense moments in my life, I gravitate towards listening to intense songs that help process my feelings, or I create ones like that myself. While pain can certainly serve as a major source of inspiration, I can also draw inspiration from very positive and uplifting aspects of life, as well as from some artists and writers, and their masterpieces that touch my soul.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
I graduated from a music school and a music college in my hometown in Russia. Although my school years were not the most pleasant and easy for me due to various reasons, I believe that my academic background still helps me incorporate classical elements into my compositions and feel more comfortable experimenting with musical harmonies. During my teenage years, I was a huge fan of Queen. They became my role models for their unique approach to mainstream, playful freedom of artistic expressions, sophisticated self-ironical rebelliousness, and their bold blend of various genres, etc
Life Beyond the Mic: Natalia Quest’s Passions and Pursuits
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
Partially. My father and my uncle possess great creative and musical talents.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
The music industry itself is not very inspiring, and I’ve encountered a lot of resistance in pursuing this path. However, lyrics and music keep coming to me. I once came across the wisdom that hoarding one’s artistic expressions in private constitutes a form of ‘transgression.’ Therefore, I am more inspired by the idea of sharing my songs with those willing to listen, rather than by being a part of the music industry per se.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I am not very fond of playing various instruments, and when it comes to singing, I underwent a complex and unconventional journey that required me to figure out how to ‘unlearn’ certain things and imprints to simply unleash my natural voice and my true essence through vocals. I have always written poetry, and my first mature songs were recorded in 2014. I don’t use formulas or algorithms in composition; I want to give the song the freedom to be what it wants to be. And yes, I am constantly learning and will continue to learn; I cannot claim that I have fully mastered anything by this point.
What was the first concert that you ever went to, and who did you see perform?
I think it was the Russian rock singer Vladimir Kuzmin, and I was around 5 years old. )
How could you describe your music?
It’s a form of magic to me. It’s a form of a spell. Most of my lyrics have a tendency to manifest itself over time—it’s fascinating, and this observation imposes a certain responsibility on me, as well as presents me with some interesting dilemmas.
Describe your creative process.
There’s nothing linear in there. It’s about observing how chaos and raw emotion gradually take shape, flowing through time and your entire being. Each song is a separate world to me, with its own history.
What is your main inspiration?
The idea that my craft can help someone navigate through difficult times and/or realize something important for themselves, consequently changing their life for the better, inspires me the most.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
I do not compete in art… everyone is a unique expression of the Source, you can only compete with your past self
What are your interests outside of music?
I have a degree in psychology, and I am continuing my education in this field. Additionally, I have studied astrology, which remains both my hobby and an addiction, in a way) I also like exploring the hidden and taboo aspects of reality and society, which helps me better understand the bigger picture.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
I would work as a therapist, conduct honest and transparent charitable acts, which, in fact, I have always wanted to do, regardless of music. I would also like to help address environmental issues in the future when my more basic needs are further fulfilled and secured.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
I would cultivate a more complex and profound approach to composition in the mainstream. The simplification and algorithmic soullessness of much of today’s mainstream music can truly upset me. I would also stop glorifying consumption in one form or another. We are much deeper and far more interesting beings to primarily cultivate and celebrate our animalistic urges.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans?
Yes, I’m open to collaborating with like-minded professionals. The right chemistry is rare but can perform miracles when combining the right skill set along with it.
What message would you like to give to your fans?
Be very honest, first and foremost, with yourself. Then with others. Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. The world will reflect ,)
20 and Bold: Joyce Tratnyek's Debut Album 'Solastalgia
20-year-old Joyce Tratnyek, a singer/songwriter and producer hailing from the busy life in New York City. Solastalgia her first album following a decade of writing lyrics and five previous single releases was released on January 7th,
At the age of 10, Joyce began her musical journey fueled by a passion for composing songs and investigated how sound could evoke emotion. Joyce was raised Portland Oregon, where she absorbed a cocktail of grunge, shoegaze, pop-rock and more. At 20 she is a singer, composer and producer all set to release her first album for the world.
Solastalgia is a testament to years spent perfecting her craft, where every note and lyric bears the weight of real emotion. Join Joyce Tratnyek in her musical tale about waves of nostalgia, traces of angst and bright colors that mark the beginning of something huge.
The album has a total of 18 unique songs, the transition between each song proves her prowess, the entire album spans 1 hour and 10 mins, this is enough time to soak into the realm on Solastalgia.
In this interview, Joyce dishes the dirt on her journey, influences and what they were that made “Solastalgia” keep ticking from climate change to mental health. Let’s plunge into the artistic space of Joyce Tratnyek and discover a unique musical world.
What is your stage name
My stage name is Joyce Tratnyek, same as my real name.
Is there a story behind your stage name?
My parents wanted to give me a “literary” name, and so my name was inspired by James Joyce and Joyce Carol Oates. They said it was also because I brought them joy as a child.
Where do you find inspiration?
I try to find it everywhere, although I think you have to be in a certain mindset to do that. Like sometimes I’ll be bored sitting on the subway, so I’ll challenge myself to notice interesting things around me that could potentially turn into lyrics. It’s like I have to manually switch my brain into CREATIVITY: ON mode, which gets really exhausting after a while. Sometimes you just need to stare into space and let your mind rest and wander a bit instead.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
I always loved music, even as a child, certain melodies would make me happy and excited. I was drawn to melody, but also to words, and I loved writing from a young age. However, it wouldn’t be until I was 9 years old that I finally put the two together and started songwriting.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
Not really! Neither of my parents are particularly artistic, although my mom played piano in her younger years. My twin sister has a really unique talent for drawing though, but she’d never admit it.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
In third grade, a friend gave me Taylor Swift’s debut album CD for my birthday. I quickly became obsessed with it, and swore that I would write songs like her.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I took piano lessons as a young child, but wasn’t very invested. When I decided I wanted to start writing songs, I would just sing melodies out loud and write the lyrics on random scraps of paper. My babysitter at the time let me borrow her guitar for a few weeks and taught me some basic chords. I remember I was so tiny at the time, and the guitar was huge compared to my 9 year old body, and it also had this gecko sticker on it that would change colors when you rubbed it.
Over time, I went back to the piano, re-teaching myself some things, and making up melodies and chords that I thought sounded good. I can read music thanks to my early childhood piano lessons, but these days I mostly experiment until I find chords I like, often making them up as I go.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
When I was a child, my dad took me to one of the big concert halls in downtown Portland, Oregon (where I grew up) on New Year’s Eve to see Esperanza Spalding perform. He had always been a huge fan of her music, and also loved the fact that she was born and raised in Portland like my sister and I, so I think it was only natural that she would be my first concert. I remember getting dressed up fancier than I ever had in my life up until then, and waiting for her to come on stage.
My father and I had the nosebloodiest of nosebleed seats, we were at the literal back left corner of the highest balcony, so that if I leaned back just a little bit, my head would touch two walls. But she was the kind of performer who makes you forget all that—I remember being electrified as I heard her sing the songs I grew up hearing, like “Cinnamon Tree” and “City of Roses.” She seemed to radiate joy, like a small sun.
Even when she made a mistake or her electric bass suddenly popped out of tune, she was so graceful and elegant that I couldn’t help but fall in love with her a little bit. That wasn’t the performance that inspired me to become a performer myself, but it’s a night I’ll always remember with passion.
My father and I had the nosebloodiest of nosebleed seats, we were at the literal back left corner of the highest balcony, so that if I leaned back just a little bit, my head would touch two walls
How could you describe your music?
I would call my music gritty yet pretty, with the sonics of grunge and shoegaze, but the melodies of pop, the dynamics of Nirvana, and the lyrics of Suzanne Vega.
Describe your creative process.
My creative process is such a mess that I barely remember what it looks like when I’m not actively doing it, ha.
What is your main inspiration?
My main inspiration is the hope that someone out there will enjoy listening to my music, and it will make them feel a bit happier, or at least understood.
What musician do you admire most and why?
I love Dave Grohl. He seems so badass, kind, and welcoming all at the same time. I admire his journey as a musician, from a self-taught drummer who dropped out of high school to tour, then the drummer for Nirvana, then the mastermind behind the Foo Fighters, one of my favorite bands ever.
He’s overcome so many things and continues to make music that’s real and authentic. He’s definitely my idol, and I would love to try his barbecue cooking and jam with him someday! Hey, stranger things have happened!
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
Yes, so much! When I first started writing music, I pretty much only listened to Taylor Swift, and the music I was writing reflected that obsession, it was pretty bare-bones guitar-based pop-folk. Over time I started to diversify my music tastes, going through Bob Dylan, Twenty One Pilots, Nirvana, and K-pop phases. All of these bands still influence me. Also, learning how to produce my own music was a game changer. Suddenly, I had more options than just singing and strumming my acoustic guitar, I could make my music sound like anything I wanted.
Over time I started to lean towards louder, harsher sounds. I just think there’s something cathartic in a wall of noise. When I first heard the song “Modern Girl” by Sleater-Kinney, it felt like my entire world shifted a little bit. The way that song sounded made me feel things no other song had before—it was so gritty, grungy, and harsh, but so soft and beautiful at the same time. That’s the vibe that inspires me the most today, although I like to experiment with other styles too.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
I am my only real competitor. Even my friends here in the NYC music scene all support each other, and besides, our styles are so different from each other, that it would make no sense to compare amongst ourselves. I do get jealous of some big-name artists who are around my age, but I try to remind myself that just because I didn’t become famous at 16 or whatever, that doesn’t mean that I will never be successful, since no one’s journey is the same.
What are your interests outside of music?
Outside of music, I love animals, the environment, reading, fashion, and graphic design.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
I would be doing graphic design, for sure! That’s my other passion aside from music, and it’s actually my major in college right now. I got into it by designing my album art as a teenager, and now I design all my own visuals, including album covers, CD packaging, and merch. I go to Parsons School of Design in New York. It’s so exciting for me to explore all the ways that music and design intertwine with each other.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
I think getting people to listen to your music is really hard, there are so many independent artists releasing new stuff these days, and lots of it doesn’t get heard, or at least not by people who will truly appreciate it. A lot of people just like to listen to familiar music, which I understand, making room for new artists in your heart is hard. It’s one thing to just get in front of new people and let them know you make music, but it’s even harder to get them to actually listen to it—I think listening to new music is a leap of faith, and it can even get overwhelming sometimes. I think of music as sort of an unspoken bond between the artist and the listener.
I honestly love being born in this generation, because I think I was born to be a DIY artist,
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
I honestly love being born in this generation, because I think I was born to be a DIY artist, and there’s no better time to do that, with the accessibility of resources and technology. But there are definitely things that still need to change. One thing I believe is that we should have more female producers, and women should learn to produce their own music. When I did, it was literally a game changer, it finally felt like my music was my own.
I’m not saying all female artists need to produce all their own releases and never get help from other, likely male, producers or engineers, just that it’s amazingly empowering and helpful to meet those people at their level and speak to them in their language in the studio. I’ve been talked over by male producers as a child recording my first songs, and I still remember the way it stung. Now, making music has never felt more freeing.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
Solastalgia is a word I came across while reading an article about how climate change can affect mental health, especially for Gen Zers such as myself. It’s a recently-coined word, referring to the distress people feel due to environmental change around them. “Hopeless” is the thematic heart of the album, as I wrote it about how thinking about climate change gives me suicidal thoughts.
However, the rest of the album looks at the title in a more abstract way, not necessarily related to physical environment, although I have a habit of using weather, nature, or seasonal metaphors in my songs. In the context of most of the album, solastalgia is basically referring to a complicated blend of emotional pain: nostalgia, fear, depression, loneliness, boredom, anger, and longing for things I can never have.
What are your plans for the coming months?
I’ll be busy with many artistic projects! Most likely I’ll release a single or two to follow Solastalgia, and try to get into playing shows more often in NYC. I would love to do a tour for Solastalgia, I’m hoping maybe in a few years. I also want to experiment with making more of my own music videos, producing songs for other artists, and co-writing more often.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans?
Not right now!
What message would you like to give to your fans?
I appreciate each and every one of you, even if we’ve never met. I hope we can someday, and I hope my music can be there for you when you feel most alone, the way my favorite artists are there for me. You can always dm me on instagram if you want to talk 🙂
A conversation between Rick and my husband is what brought Rick and me together as co-songwriters.
Meet Sometimes Julie, is a San Diego dynamic duo who ended 2023 with a musical bang by releasing their album “Seven Wishes” on New Year’s night. Sometimes Julie is made up of powerhouse vocalist Monica Sorenson and musical wizard Rick Walker.
Monica’s earthy voice, as a guiding light, adds life to the fear of universal time slipping away while Rick creates sonic terrain that resembles Fleetwood Mac by adding rock touches.
Their fifth album, “Seven Wishes”, opens in pop, country and blues to express seven raw desires. Julie’s music is often so magnetic and compelling that it makes listeners want to realize their desires and grasp the moment.
Monica reveals in our chat how she got the name of her stage persona, Julie – a personality oozing mega confidence onstage. Acting motivated by love and personal lives, their creative path starts from a word to integrated gems with Rick.
Monica’s musical beginnings in a multicultural family influenced her youthful years and how they changed from simple songs to risky compositions express the uniqueness of their sound.
Sometimes Julie celebrates the reawakening of rock and roll with nods to U2 and Brandi Carlile. Apart from music, Monica enjoys nature and a little silliness. The future has a lot in stock for them, from live performances, solo projects and collaborations.
To fans, Sometimes Julie’s message is clear: help local musicians, enjoy live music celebrations and partake in the hope journey of love play. Take a plunge into the universe of Sometimes Julie and make their music vibrate in your heart.
What is your stage name? Our band name is Sometimes Julie. My real name is actually Monica, but when I am onstage people call me Julie most of the time, so I guess that’s what I go with for a stage name.
Is there a story behind your stage name? Julie is my performance name. When I first started singing, at open mics mostly, I thought it was important to use a stage name so I could maintain separation between my performance life and personal and professional lives.
With this separation, I could allow myself to be authentic on stage and perform freely, without having to worry about being tagged in potentially embarrassing videos posted to social media. So in short, Monica is a little self-conscious, while Julie is confident and free. So I’m gonna be Julie whenever I can.
Where do you find inspiration?
I find my inspiration in my relationships, feelings, and personal history as well as in dreams and imagined stories. I hear songs in my head when I am walking or hiking. Being in nature really lets me tune in. Melodies come to me as the stories develop.
When I return home from a hike, I will sit at the piano or with my guitar and work out a little bit of the song at a time. Then Rick and I will get together to fully develop the song. Rick’s collaboration often sends a song in a direction I didn’t anticipate, and I find that to be very exciting. So Rick is a big inspiration to me as well.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
Music was really important in the early years of my life. Many people in my family are musicians. Music was always playing in my house, whether it was classical or country or a little bit of jazz, standards, rock and roll, or pop. We didn’t have a lot of money but we had good stereo systems, a great collection of records, and instruments in our house – pianos, drums, and guitars.
Music was always there in the background of my childhood. I remember singing quite a bit to myself as a small child and loving learning songs.
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
My family is full of musicians. My grandparents were professional musicians and played in symphony orchestras, had radio shows, and regularly played in nightclubs. My father, who unfortunately I never met, was a professional musician in the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. My mother also played piano quite well. My little brother is a professional guitar player and vocalist in Phoenix, Arizona.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
Rick inspired me to be a part of the music industry. A conversation between Rick and my husband is what brought Rick and me together as co-songwriters.
A conversation between Rick and my husband is what brought Rick and me together as co-songwriters.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? As a child, I resisted my family’s efforts to teach me to play an instrument. And I was shy at school and did not join in with singing (fortunately, I eventually got over that). When I was a little older, I wrote quite a bit of poetry and actually pursued a master’s degree in English creative writing for a while. Writing poetry and writing lyrics draw from pretty much the same skill set. Also around the same time, I took a piano class for a semester as an elective. I loved it, but I didn’t pursue piano further until recently.
Although I have now been singing for several years, most of my development as an instrumentalist occurred only during the last few. After forming Sometimes Julie, I realized that in order to grow into the songwriter I wanted to be, I needed a better understanding of music and music theory. The piano is the perfect instrument for learning those things, and I am always eager to learn more.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
The first concert I went to was Elton John. I know I also went to see Chicago at about the same time. Elton John was amazing, he was very energetic, and Chicago’s sophisticated musical arrangements were inspirational. I began going to concerts after I got a job and could afford to buy my own tickets!
How could you describe your music?
Our music is original Indie Alt Rock, influenced by blues, pop, and a little bit of country. Our sound is entirely our sound, and while our music is relatable, it’s difficult to categorize us in a particular genre. What matters the most about our music is that it’s melodic and it’s a fully authentic experience that captures and conveys the moment and the feeling of the song.
Describe your creative process.
Usually, the words come first. A phrase, an idea comes along and then it is suddenly married to a tune that spins around in my head. I sing it into my phone and then I work it out on my piano. Some songs are all composed at once, while others have gone through revisions over a period as long as 10 years. Rick comes in to collaborate and helps me turn it into a song with all of the instrumental parts. A handful of times, Rick has composed a complete musical piece, to which I apply lyrics and melody.
Once the music and lyrics are essentially complete, we produce a demo in our home studio, and then take the completed demo to our band to develop the song further. After the band has played it out a few times, we go to a professional recording studio (Pacific Records, Pacific Beat Recording, and/or Bigrock Studios) for additional polishing and then release to the public!
What is your main inspiration?
Love, hope, pain, loss, hope. I’ve been thinking about love, and falling in love, and how to best describe love, my whole life. I think if people are honest they will say they are thinking about it almost all the time. I have had some very big losses in my life, as we all do. When I lost my son, in 2013, the pain was unimaginable. Writing songs to him and about him has been a saving grace. He too was incredibly creative and musical. I often imagine that he is inspiring me each step of the way. I also often write about a need to feel more freedom to express myself, so that is another recurring theme in my lyrics.
What musician do you admire most and why?
I most admire musicians who continue to evolve and get better and try new things. I also admire musicians who use their incredible talent and their energy to make the world a better place and give back. At the moment the artist that most comes to mind is the band U2 and Bono. We’re going to go and see them at The Sphere in Las Vegas.
But we’ve seen them many times before. They’re the reason I met my husband. I’ve created a lot of relationships with people listening to their music so I have to say they’re pretty influential for me. They use their tremendous influence to create Project Red which brings life saving opportunities to others.
Another person who I really admire is Brandi Carlile because she is so talented. Her music moves me. As an up and coming artist she was able to create while being a very authentic person. She was able to come out in 2002 and marry her wife in 2012. She uses her position of influence to create the Looking Out Foundation which helps fund a number of different things that I really believe in from conservation to supporting people in areas of conflict and Doctors Without Borders, a number of really important causes. Interesting connection: I recently found out that she learned to play piano and guitar after hearing Elton John.
Has your style evolved since the beginning of your career?
So much. We started out with what I would call safe little songs and we have developed into risk-taking songwriters. We try new things, bring in amazing collaborators, and create very original songs. I have grown as a musician, as both a singer and now an instrumentalist, with a better understanding of music theory and production.
Who do you see as your main competitor?
Time. You can’t trust it. It always steals the show.
What are your interests outside of music?
Hiking, glamping, being in nature, and being silly and childish.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
Painting and writing something other than songs. I also like working with animals.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? Self-doubt.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
The rightful return of rock and roll as the dominant genre in popular culture. In my opinion, there is no other music genre with as much variety, and authenticity, than rock and roll.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
I am always wishing, hoping, and wishing some more, to have time with people I love and seeing people I have lost one more time. That is really what this is about.
What are your plans for the coming months?
Play! Play! Play! And work on my solo-ish project – which will be largely acoustic and piano oriented. Rick will be right there with me, so it’s only kind of a solo project.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans?
I may be writing with a few friends, Linda Berry and Pat Pickslay to name a couple. I hope to put together some cool shows with all female-fronted bands.
What message would you like to give to your fans?
Please listen to and support local musicians and live music whenever you can! Hope, love, play! We appreciate your support and hope you will let us know what you think of our new album.
The Heart of Indie Music: Sambox's Candid Conversation on 'Imagination'
Sambox is back with his latest record “Imagination” this is an intriguing fusion of techno and classic sounds, this masterpiece was created in collaboration with cellist Anita Barbereau. Buckle up and get ready for a musical trip! It’s a dance of keys and cello, presenting one vivid performance in your mind.
Sambox is a musician with roots going back a lot in the 1980’s and early 1990 who are passionate about electronic music giving timelessness and easy listening quality to your tunes.
In a recent interview with Sambox he made some disclosures and delved into his personal life, he stated he is inspired by the melancholic and nostalgic sides of life, using music as a powerful conductor for emotions.
Recognizing the monetary difficulties that indie artists face, Sambox supports fair streaming payments by highlighting the importance of proper crediting.
Sambox announces some interesting future collaborations with cellist Anita Barbereau and hails the fans for listening to real heartfelt music.
Now click those links if you haven’t yet and let Sambox’s tunes take your imagination on a real feel-good adventure. It is more than music; it’s a rhythm that vibrates with the heart, making you dance and feel every pulse.
Is there a story behind your stage name ? There’s no real story behind my artist name
Where do you find inspiration ? Like many artists, my inspiration comes from everyday life, but the melancholy and nostalgic side is a real source of inspiration for me.
It’s in this melancholy that I’m able to express my artistic ideas.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life ? music has played an important role since I was very young, allowing me to discover different musical worlds and to blossom.
Are you from a musical or artistic family ? Yes, I come from a family of musicians, so we’re all artistically inclined, but in different musical worlds.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry ?
Clearly, when I discovered electronic music in the late 80s and early 90s, I said to myself, this musical universe speaks to me and this is where I belong.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play ? I trained in classical music and this has helped me a lot in the construction and realization of my compositions.
Nevertheless, I’m still a pure autodidact when it comes to mastering the various software and mixing techniques. It took me many hours, even years, of work to master certain phases, and I’m still learning every day, like many artists.
Cellist Anita Barbereau
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform ? sincerely, I don’t know anymore
How could you describe your music? I would describe my music as pleasant to listen to and timeless.
Describe your creative process. My creative process is often the same: I stand in front of my piano and play completely imporvised until I find a chord progression or a beautiful melody that sounds good.
From then on, I set to work in my home studio to embroider this idea.
What is your main inspiration ? Although I’m not sad by nature, I really like melancholy and nostalgic things, because they’re often situations and things in life that touch you, and by definition music is a transmitter of emotions.
What musician do you admire most and why ? Difficult questions, I’d say that when a musician succeeds in moving you with his creations, he inevitably arouses admiration.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? Yes and no. Basically, my artistic touch remains the same, but I’m experimenting with other sound textures and I like to mix acoustic instruments with electronic music.
Who do you see as your main competitor ? I don’t think there are any competitors in the art world of independent artists, but rather friends or even role models.
What are your interests outside of music ?
I really like the contact with water, in this case the wellness areas.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing ? hard to imagine, in fact, like many music fans, many will tell you they couldn’t see themselves doing anything else.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music ? As in any business, money is the key, and when you’re a self-producer like me, it’s hard to make big plans and invest in new equipment.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be ? The best thing would be a fair payment on streaming, and for that we need a complete overhaul of the artist remuneration system.
I don’t know a single artist who’s happy with his or her royalties. You have to live decently, and all work deserves decent remuneration.
Maybe one day there won’t be any human creators left, especially if you want to make music with a real soul.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project ? my latest single “Imagination” is above all a place for dreams and hope in this difficult world
What are your plans for the coming months? For a year I have been working in close collaboration with cellist Anita Barbereau, we exchange a lot and we still have many projects to realize for 2024
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans No other collaborations to come.
What message would you like to give to your fans ? listen, listen, again and again to my music, or if you prefer to buy it that’s good too because that’s what allows me to offer those who follow me or discover me authentic music that comes from the depths of heart.
A Symbol Of Hope In The Face Of Adversities - When Stars Collide
What do you do when everything seems to go bad? Do you fold back into your shell or face it like Ian Dencker? Ian Dencker is a musical artist who pours his heart out into every production; he has made it sole purpose to empower the world with his music
His latest single “When Stars Collide,” is that one song that can be enjoyed by people from all walks of life regardless of age. Ian is a solo artist who plays the guitar and keyboard, and atop that, he sings as well.
In a recent interview with Mister Styx of Musicarenagh, Ian Decker went deep into his personal life and share some bits of him. When asked about the main inspiration behind “When Stars Collide” this is what he had to say :
“The song is about awakenings, new beginnings and new realisations trying to capture that feeling in song”
Now join us as we get dig deeper into the life of Ian Decker and his latest single “When Stars Collide”
Ian Dencker
Is there a story behind your stage name?
No, it’s just my real name
Where do you find inspiration?
Everywhere, life, dreams, you just have to listen
What was the role of music in the early years of your life?
It offered hope and escape from a very poor upbringing
Are you from a musical or artistic family?
Nah
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry?
I naturally was drawn to music as a young boy and would torment my family on the old piano
How did you learn to sing/write/to play?
I’m self taught
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
I recall seeing Neil Youg and Crazy Horse
How could you describe your music?
Heart felt
Describe your creative process.
Sometimes I will dream a song and when I wake I record the words and music
What is your main inspiration?
A mixture really but the human condition prevails
What musician do you admire most and why?
I really like Thom Yorke as he is so gifted technically and creates a scenery like no one else
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?
Yes I think so and still evolving
Who do you see as your main competitor?
I would like to be as good as Green Day or Radiohead
What are your interests outside of music?
Martial arts and the good side of humanity
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing?
I’d be a farmer or race car driver or a sailor
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music?
being understood and getting my ideas across tp production
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be?
more inclusive to all
Why did you choose this as the title of this project?
I was watching the Milky Way with my 9yo son whilst camping
What are your plans for the coming months?
To Promote When Stars Collide and perform it live
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans
Not at this stage but always open to offers 🙂
What message would you like to give to your fans?
I hope you like my new song, this one was very hard to write and I had to dig very deep as my life was undergoing drastic changes
Strings and Stories: Alexander Nantschev's Musical Tapestry
Lets talk about Alexander Nantschev the musician guy with a story as diverse as his tunes. His musical journey involves walking on a tight rope between classical melodies and experimental loops on a balcony that links his brother’s studio to his father’s classical music haven.
Like him, there is a little bit of everything in his latest album, “Selves.” Each song is an alternative side of him; like having multiple alter egos. For this reason, he does not believe in one self only, he argues that it does not work for such world as ours where we are forced to be stuck with one identity only.
In the midst of the buzz created by music and arts in his family, Alexander derives pleasure from mundane things – deep conversations, strolls in nature or teaching kids how to play violins. His process of making music? More like playing around and seeing what sticks.
In a recent interview with Mister Styx of Musicarenagh, he was asked if his music style evolve since the beginning of your career and his response was an interesting one, this is what he had to say:
“I strive not to regress, maintaining a dreamlike state that reflects a unique magic while learning life’s lessons.”
In this conversation we explore how he entered into music, who influenced his jamz and how he juggles the whole artist-manager thing. From being an avid Pink Floyd fanboy to finding his own sound, Alexander gives us all the stats about the music he loves creating without any fancy lingo at all.
Is there a story behind your stage name? Certainly, it’s simply my official name.
Where do you find inspiration? I draw inspiration from deep conversations with friends, visits to galleries, concerts, nature walks, reading, and engaging with other artists. My work teaching kids the violin is a constant wellspring of creativity due to its playful nature.
What was the role of music in the early years of your life? Music permeated my upbringing, with a father as a violinist, a ballerina mother, a conductor-composer uncle, and a music-producing brother. Our home was a hub for musicians, painters, and artists.
Are you from a musical or artistic family? Yes, my family is deeply rooted in music and the arts.
Who inspired you to be a part of the music industry? The early influence of The Beatles and Pink Floyd sparked my interest in the music industry.
How did you learn to sing/write/to play? My father initiated my violin training at age 3, followed by piano lessons at 9 and guitar at 15. My uncle enriched my knowledge in counterpoint, harmony, theory, music history, and solfeggio. I further studied violin and piano at the Music University in Vienna.
What was the first concert that you ever went to and who did you see perform?
While I can’t recall the first concert, seeing Pink Floyd at 13 in the front row left a lasting impression.
seeing Pink Floyd at 13 in the front row left a lasting impression.
How could you describe your music? Some label it as progressive, but I prefer to describe it as psychedelic. Influenced by classical music, my focus centers on melody and its arrangement.
Describe your creative process. My approach is playful, often starting with improvisation. I then refine by cutting out favored parts. Dance has been a significant influence, connecting various art forms like choreography, video projection, music, and stage design.
What is your main inspiration? A good sleep is crucial. While exhaustion hinders creativity, there are exceptions, like compositions born from high fever and sickness. Exceptional performances by other musicians also serve as inspiration.
What musician do you admire most and why? I admire Glenn Gould for his unique and individualistic approach to music, unswayed by external judgments.
Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career? I strive not to regress, maintaining a dreamlike state that reflects a unique magic while learning life’s lessons.
Who do you see as your main competitor? As Bela Bartok said, competitions are for horses.
What are your interests outside of music? I enjoy art, movies, books, philosophy, nature walks, and deep conversations with friends.
If it wasn’t a music career, what would you be doing? Probably a diplomat.
What is the biggest problem you have encountered in the journey of music? Confronting self-criticism and balancing the roles of artist and manager can be challenging.
If you could change one thing in the music industry, what would it be? I believe the public needs to value music more, akin to other forms of entertainment.
Why did you choose this as the title of this project? The album “Selves” represents different facets of me, each song embodying a distinct self – the Romantic, the classical, the hippie, the astronaut, the guru self.
What are your plans for the coming months? I’ve formed a new band, and rehearsals are underway. Additionally, I’m planning classical violin concerts.
Do you have any artistic collaboration plans? I’m always open to collaborating with inspiring individuals.
What message would you like to give to your fans? Believe in what you excel at. If someone inspires you, great. If a concert leaves you feeling down, it may have been more about ego than art.
