Meat In Space Releases “Outta My Head”
Is there a particular ethos behind the single/EP/album or any particular music styles or events that inspired it?
I had an inspirational spark of creativity after listening to a few garage rock staples and hearing the guitar riff and vocal melody in my head. It seemed simple and kind of dumb but still had a hookiness to it. I've learned to never judge an idea in the early stages and at least document it, even if it goes nowhere, so I made a phone recording of me humming the guitar part and the melody. I returned to the idea and the rest of the song came together very quickly. I guess the lesson here is to let go of logical judgment and let art flow if it has a feel. Let a song go where it needs to go and do not get in the way with rational judgment. The song turned out quite loose as a result, but could not have been any other way.
Were there any notable or amusing happenings surrounding the recording/production of the EP?
As above, list whatever might be of relevance.
After a couple of passes on the lyrics, I ended up keeping the very first pass of the "Outta My Head" shout-singing chorus. The first take just had the right energy and I feel like it captured the vibe I was trying to convey. Lyrically, the song kind of grew outward from that chorus as I added parts to complement the chorus.
Where was the single/EP/album recorded and who was involved in its production?
A true bedroom recording, this was actually recorded and largely written in my bedroom on a Tascam 488 8-track cassette multitrack. I sang into a stack of guitar pedals, straight into the 8-track. Drums were recorded live to two tracks, extra distorted and crispy with cassette saturation. Mixed down to 2-track analog tape through an Allen & Heath mixer with live knob twists and fader moves. “Outta My Head” was produced entirely analog up until mastering.
Who are the band members and what do they play?
Meat in Space is the solo rock project of Bay Area multi-instrumentalist Shawn Stedman who helms guitar, bass, drums, vocals, tape recording, Casio drum machines, synths, mixing, and production.
What are the band's main influences?
I'm heavily influenced by early 90s heavyweights like Dinosaur Jr., Nirvana, and Smashing Pumpkins, as well as garage rockers like Jay Reatard and Ty Segall. I like guitar-heavy music and genre-wise I draw from a blend of punk, stoner metal, shoegaze, slacker rock, experimental rock, DIY 4-trackers, Spanish guitar, and all musicians with a strong melodic sensibility.
Burnt Retina On the Making Of ‘Sleep Police’
What was the creative process like for this particular ‘Sleep Police?’
Just throwing down whatever sounds hilarious, intentionally bad, or yelling into the microphone with interesting guitar parts and drum fills.
Can you talk about the recording and production process for ‘Sleep Police?’
We wrote this album in a beaten-down garage with the cheapest production equipment ever, some true garage punk.
Which song do you like the best and why?
“Stalker” is our favorite on this album due to the unique indie/punk ring to it.
Where do you find inspiration for your songs or musical ideas?
Old school punk mostly, like the Misfits, GG, and Descendants.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
Old punks and new scumbags moshing and having fun to some de-gen music.
ZerO On the Making Of ‘SMIL@Y’
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of 'SMIL@Y?'
Actually, it was quite simple. I was listening to a lot of punk rock or heavy metal rap like " City Morgue" at the time ‘SMIL@Y’ was created. Then I sat there and thought I also want to make such an album. And this is how "SAVAGE MUSIC IDEA LAUGHS AT YOU" was created
Can you share any interesting or unique musical elements or production techniques used in 'SMIL@Y?'
Yes, I can. For example, "A BOY WITH A DREAM" was created during a live band jam session. That was really a funny coincidence. Then I heard the drums playing and knew ok I have to make something out of this. The rest of the tracks I recorded at home in my home studio.
How does this album fit into your overall artistic vision?
‘SMIL@Y’ fits right into my artistic vision, man! It's like the raw energy and rebellious spirit of punk rock distilled into sonic mayhem. This album embodies my unapologetic attitude and passion for breaking the mold.
Every track is a middle finger to conformity and a shout-out to individuality. And the sound? It's a sonic riot! From blistering guitar riffs to pounding drums, it's a sonic rebellion that's unapologetically me.
’SMIL@Y’ is a wild ride through the heart of punk rock, and it's the purest expression of my artistic vision. It's all about embracing the chaos, flipping the bird to the establishment, and wearing that ‘SMIL@Y’ badge with pride.
Can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your journey into music production? How did you become a producer?
Yo, what’s good? I'm ZerO the mask producer. My journey into music production started at the age of 10 years when I learned to play the guitar. After that, at some point, I got to know the program Fl Studio. I was immediately fascinated and discovered my passion. I immersed myself in synths, learned sound design, and experimented with genres. The white mask represents my focus on the music itself. I've had amazing collaborations and performances, and I'm excited to keep pushing boundaries. I want to create something that will outlast me. Thanks to everybody who listens to my music and supports me.
Are there any unconventional techniques you've experimented with that led to interesting results?
Definitely! I've explored unconventional techniques, like incorporating field recordings from everyday life into my music. As an example, I recorded the beginning of the intro in the forest. Then you hear two people talking and birds chirping it creates a gloomy but at the same time exciting mood. It's brought unexpected textures and a personal touch to my tracks, creating a deeper connection with listeners and expanding my creative horizons.