Tomm On the Making Of ‘ATLAS’
How does 'ATLAS' reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
I think 'ATLAS' was a big leap from my previous LPs, and I'm glad that with every new release, I can see myself growing as an artist. After my previous LP, I was really struggling to find a new idea for a concept album, and I was also worried that the two of them would sound too much alike. However, in the end, changing the approach from writing songs on my keyboard to laying the foundation on my bass or my guitar really helped achieve the change of style I was looking forward to. It still sounds like Tomm, but different, I think.
What did you enjoy most about making ‘ATLAS?’
I really loved experimenting with panning. Queens Of The Stone Age were a big inspiration for that. Once I found myself gravitating towards this desert rock-ish sound, I decided to play around with panning in a similar way to how Josh Homme does. Additionally, I wrote many subtle guitar and bass parts that function as "textures." I believe 'Humbug' by Arctic Monkeys played a significant role in shaping that aspect.
Have you noticed any particular interpretations or connections that listeners have made with ‘ATLAS?'
Not yet. I've noticed that some people are intrigued by the meaning behind 'The Liver is The Cock’s Comb', but I believe the album's message is fairly straightforward this time. I would be interested in seeing some people analyze it though. I briefly mentioned 'ATLAS' being this malevolent persona that emerges towards the end of a relationship when I announced the LP. However, I'm not sure if listeners who have just experienced the album have picked up on that interpretation yet.
How did you get started in music, and what inspired you to become a singer-songwriter?
Oh, this is actually a funny story. I self-produced a song jokingly while I was in high school and said to one of my friends, "Wouldn't it be fun if I put this on Spotify?" So, I did it. But when I was about to publish the song, I realized that I was paying for a full year of Spotify releases. So, I decided to make the best of it and start writing songs consistently. Looking back at it, I actually had more to say back then. Nowadays, I find myself often struggling when it comes to lyrics. I guess that carelessness really helped me, huh?
Are there any genres or styles you'd like to explore in the future?
I have a plethora of styles that I would love to explore, mix, and match. However, the choice isn't up to me; it's always up to my fingers when I pick up my guitar or sit at my piano next time. Nowadays, I'm trying to involve some of my friends in my writing process. I believe that will play a significant role in my upcoming releases as well.
Frankie Bird On the Making Of ‘Grassroots’
How does 'Grassroots' reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
It is really nice to have a cohesive body of workouts rather than just individual singles. I do think of 'Grassroots' as a concept record as the songs all tie in together thematically about my move to London and getting started in the music industry. I think that the range of styles of songs in the EP shows my growth as an artist even in just the past year as they range from catchy pop songs to emotional rockier ballads.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for 'Grassroots?'
Hearing the bass and drums come in on the tracks was really exciting for me as I had been so used to hearing the acoustic versions. I always write with a full band sound in mind as that's what I prefer to a stripped-back sound most of the time. The songs were recorded in a north London studio earlier in the summer and I like to think that's translated into the songs having an upbeat, summer vibe especially 'Background' and 'Hidden Away' as they are more pop-leaning.
What is your favorite song from 'Grassroots' and why?
At the moment, it's probably the first song 'Background' as I'm kind of promoting it as the lead track due to its big anthemic chorus. I'm looking forward to performing it live as I think it will get a good response from audiences.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I've always loved writing and telling stories and to do this through songs seemed to be what appealed to me more than anything else. I love performing live and meeting other musicians at gigs too. I've wanted to be a singer-songwriter since I was fourteen so it's incredible to now actually have music out that people can listen to.
What is your songwriting process like? How do you usually start crafting a new song?
I'm a very traditional songwriter, to be honest. I just sit on my bed with my guitar and a notebook. I don't really write on my laptop or anything like that. I tend to start playing a chord progression, then come up with the melody and then the lyrics. Once I start a song I have to finish it pretty much straight away. I don't really come back to ideas I've left behind. I'm always moving on to the next thing.
Jacob and the Starry Eyed Shadows Releases “Rise”
Can you briefly describe what the song/each song is about? If you are releasing an album then either describe the thinking behind the project or choose a couple of lead tracks to focus on.
It's about love overcoming adversity through hope, and people being there for each other through tough times. It's about not giving up. I like to keep my lyrics quite ambiguous so that listeners can make their own minds up about what the song means to them. Sometimes my songs are about something very specific, but rarely. I think it's important for listeners to be actively involved in the experience of music, and so I like to leave as much room for that as possible so that it can be personal to everyone.
Where was the single/EP/album recorded and who was involved in its production?
I mostly write, record, and produce in my small and modest home studio here in Scotland, and this song was no different.
Is there a particular ethos behind the single/EP/album or any particular music styles or events that inspired it?
The song is about depression, but it's still very optimistic and positive like most of my releases. it's about overcoming adversity and has a very defiant chorus and overall feel.
Who are the band members and what do they play?
I am currently a solo pop-punk/indie-rock musician from the west coast of Scotland. I play, write, record, and perform everything myself. I'm currently in the process of getting a band together to get touring again soon with this new material.
Have you played any notable gigs, festivals or other events? Likewise radio or TV appearances?
I've had extensive radio airplay over here in the UK, including on the BBC, and have been a finalist in the UK Songwriting Contest. No recent gigs due to recently becoming a father, but looking to change that soon with my new band.
DG Adams On the Making Of “Social Media Love”
How does "Social Media Love" reflect your musical journey and growth as a band?
It reflects a focus I've come to as a songwriter about the dangers and drawbacks of internet activity, first with my previous single "Screens" and now with "Social Media Love ".
What did you enjoy most about making "Social Media Love?"
I enjoyed collaborating once again with ace producer Vinay Lobo, master drummer Shane Wilson, singing angel Anna Katarina, best bud Torquil Campbell, and longtime engineer Kaj Falch-Nielsen at Blue Light Studio.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for "Social Media Love?"
I think nailing the vocal in one or two takes in my living room was a stand-out.
Can you share a bit about your musical background and the journey that led you to where you are today?
I was an actor for many years before I became a recording artist. I think that discipline and passion are injected into my present work.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
I most enjoy the sense of danger, like anything can happen and probably will!
JohnTaglieri On the Making Of “Talk To Me”
What was the creative process like for this particular "Talk To Me?"
Munk Duane and I sat down last summer to start writing a new song and had a few ideas that we banged around. We settled on the start of this song as one we'd focus on. We got it about half way done and then we both got busy. We came back together in December and we finished the song in about 20 minutes. I had come back not wanting to finish this one and try to start another, but Munk felt this one was where we should focus. We did and I'm really glad I listened to him. His gut was telling him that this was a song we should move on and it was definitely on point.
Once it was finished, we sat and started to decide more on the structure and what we wanted musically. As my producer, I left a lot of it up to him to flesh out. We decided to recruit two absolute LEGENDS in Kenny Aronoff (John Mellencamp, John Fogarty, Michelle Branch, Goo Goo Dolls) & Leland Sklar (James Taylor, Carole King, Phil Collins, Lyle Lovett) to be our rhythm section. I’d worked with Kenny before and he’s my favorite drummer ever. So it’s a treat having them both on the song.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for "Talk To Me?"
The song was mostly recorded in Munk's studio in Whitman, MA. The drums were recorded in Kenny's uncommon Ground LA studio in Los Angeles, and Leland Cut his parts in a hotel room on the road with Lyle Lovett. So that’s always fun to have it recorded all over the country and then set in and assembled.
What has been one of your favorite memories along the path to making "Talk To Me?"
So, as I said I was sort of passed the song as far as when we came back to it in December. That said, I've always said instruments have stories to tell and it’s our job as musicians to listen. Last summer, my father-in-law found a beautiful Ibanez acoustic in a dumpster!! I had to do a small amount of work on it to make it playable but its a great guitar! I brought it to the session in December and when we decided to try to finish this song, it was the first time I tried to write on that guitar. And the song just fell out of us. LOL. So the dumpster guitar kicked out a gem for us that who knows if another instrument would have. LOL.
What has been one of the most significant moments of your musical journey so far?
In my career, I’ve been lucky to have many. But the one that will ALWAYS stick out as my favorite was the first time I opened for my musical idol, Rik Emmett. He was the guitarist/singer for the band Triumph and has always been my biggest influence. I opened for him at The Bottom Line in NYC in front of a sold-out crowd. At the end of his show, he asked me to come join him on stage to play 'Hold On'...a song of his I grew up learning and loving. So there I was on stage with my idol, playing a song I'd learned when I was 11 years old in front of a sold-out crowd....and nothing will ever top that moment!
Are there any specific artists or musicians you dream of collaborating with?
Honestly, there are SO many. I’ve toured with and played on bills with most of my idols and favorite bands, but there are a ton more I'd love to work with in some aspect. I’d love to write with Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Kevin Cronin from REO Speedwagon, Tommy Shaw from Styx, and then some newer bands that are out now like Wolfe Van Halen. Just so much great music out there and people I'd love to work with.
Juliana Strangelove On the Making Of “Dead Poets”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind "Dead Poets" and the story it tells?
This is a story about the time when I was 20 years old, and I came to London without cash and connections to become a famous musician, but I ended up exhausting myself to such a state that I ceased to seem normal to myself.
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for this track?
Songwriting was smooth, but during the recording, I had a terrible sore throat, because as soon as I arrived in England, I caught a cold.
What do you like the best about this track?
The guitar solo made me fall in love with my other half again (my husband plays guitar). And I am absolutely happy with the production, kudos to The Animal Farm label.
How did you get started in music, and what inspired you to become a singer-songwriter?
I was skipping math at school and accidentally wandered into a music class.
How do you channel your emotions and connect with your audience during live performances?
Sometimes I don't, but when I get it, it's one of the best moments in my life. Who knows what the magic is?
Jem On the Making Of “Icarus”
How does "Icarus" reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
I've discovered a distinct part of myself with “Icarus,” a part I haven't tapped into before. Many elements you hear come from my voice, including the synths and drums! So, I can say that I have pushed my limits and shown diversity in my musicality. It's definitely a track that many people wouldn't expect me to have in my discography!
Have you noticed any particular interpretations or connections that listeners have made with "Icarus?"
“Icarus” contains various complex emotions. Considering its fresh debut, people will need time to internalise and find a piece within themselves. But to answer your question, I've received a message that has touched me so far. Someone said, 'It's a level of vulnerability that they haven't been exposed to in music lately'.
What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
The last scene, for sure! In the final shot, I discovered a passion of mine besides music, and it was acting! I love including different art forms in my music, like dance, cinema, and art, but this is the first time I have tried acting. Still, I'm used to feeling and voicing intense emotions, so putting that into acting felt natural!
How do you stay inspired and motivated to continue pushing boundaries in your art?
People hide their raw feelings and true intentions. Can't blame them because artists are also masters at hiding, but I wish that were the case for me. At least, that would've made my life easier. But not seeing the truth with the naked eye is almost an impossible act for me. It's like being aware of your reflection all the time, it is scary, but like the duality in life, it has ups and downs. It feeds what I create because it is not filtered but haunts me with overthinking. Still, it feels wrong to my every cell not to write and sing exactly how I feel, and knowing that I have the freedom to do that in my art is the force that gets me out of my bed every morning!
Looking ahead, what are your long-term goals and aspirations as a musician?
I've been exploring myself as a songwriter for quite a long time, and I have a bunch of singles on the way! Now it's my time to be out there and perform my songs to people. So, I'm looking forward to playing and building stronger connections with people in the long term.
JENSEY On the Making Of “Ride Or Die”
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your "Ride Or Die"and the story it tells?
“Ride or Die” is a song I wrote for a friend on the Autism Spectrum. It’s about how he may see the world differently from me but regardless I’ll do my best to be there for him.
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for "Ride Or Die?"
A great moment was when I was telling Stevie D (producer of “Ride or Die”) what it was actually about.
Can you share any memorable experiences or stories from performing "Ride Or Die" live?
The first time I played it I actually got choked up. But I told the crowd what it was about and they a bunch of them standing up and started clapping. It was crazy.
How would you describe your musical style or genre?
Country Rock and/or Country
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
I’m grateful for every note I get to sing that people take their time to listen to. I love how playing live is raw and honest. Can’t be edited or fixed. I love that honesty in playing live.
Micah Sheveloff On the Making of “Stand Me Up Again”
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "Stand Me Up Again?"
I was working with a musician who was battling addiction and when you are side-by-side and in close quarters with such suffering, it leaves an impression. I actually pulled some of the lyrical content from phrases I heard through the haze. It is hard to care for someone in such a state of disrepair. But there was also fight and determination and a will to make tomorrow better. The song intends to portray that battle, that journey.
Were there any challenges or breakthrough moments during the songwriting process for "Stand Me Up Again?"
That’s a tough question because so much of the writing process for me takes place on a nearly subconscious level. Writing any song by nature represents a creative challenge but Stand Me Up Again was born of so much raw human experience, I found my way through the composition without too much struggle. The challenge for me was singing this song, which was originally released as Stand Me Up in 2012. I really wasn’t satisfied with many aspects of the original vocal, hence the remix here in 2023. The new vocal is based on experience I have gained singing my songs—how to use my range and my natural inflections as a strength. Only took me a decade to get there!
Can you talk about the recording and production process for "Stand Me Up Again?"
In 2012, I recorded Stand Me Up with a live band (Bass/drums/guitar) to 2-inch tape at the beautiful Firehouse 12 studio in New Haven, CT. I was fortunate enough to play a very rich sounding and dynamic 9-foot concert Steinway piano there as well. So, the 2023 remix features all of that instrumentation with some very subtle, newer effects and the new lead vocal.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music?
I was drowning in music directly out of the womb, with both parents having attended the School of Music & Art in upper Manhattan, New York City, and my father teaching serious musicians at Boston University for 45 years. Then I got religion when I found the Monkees, the Partridge Family, the Beatles, and Cheap Trick. I got super excited about merging my creative sensibilities within the framework of a pop song, and never looked back.
What do you enjoy most about performing live and connecting with your audience?
I am so envious of my singer/songwriter friends who play guitar…they throw a little package together and off they go! Being a pianist, live gigs require more planning. Can I find a venue with a piano, or do I set up an 88-key rig and play that way? And sound quality matters to me…But to answer your question, there were some gigs I did with guitarist Marc Shulman from New York, who toured with Suzanne Vega and others. His playing was so exceptional, it added another dimension to my songs and to the live experience. That was my favorite live groove, but I haven’t sought to recreate that or do any touring since the pandemic.
Lissy Taylor Releases “Feel for Me”
“Feel For Me” is for thrill seekers. Earth shaking rhythm and monumental drops; a rollercoaster of emotion from anticipation to euphoria. Contrasting an introspective verse to a massive chorus with fiery guitar riffs and powerful vocals made for the mosh pit. Written to be three and a half minutes of ecstasy.
Lissy explained that the song is about relationships and the journey they take, from starting a new relationship to feelings of wanting to be understood and questioning if a relationship is right for you. “Feel For Me” captures the intensity of emotion felt at different stages of relationships from anticipation and desire to frustration and heartbreak.
“Feel For Me” was written by Lissy Taylor and produced by Gareth Nuttall (The Lottery Winners, The Ks) The accompanying music video showcases Lissy’s recent performance at the Isle of Wight Festival.
Delving into rock with “Feel For Me” highlights the fluidity and strength of Lissy’s songwriting. With a natural ability to write addictive anthems, her songs range from indie-pop to alternative-rock and will appeal to fans of Sam Fender and Wolf Alice.
Enda Mulloy On the Making Of ‘NOTIONS IN MIDLIFE CRISIS’
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your album 'NOTIONS IN MIDLIFE CRISIS' and the story it tells?
The album is an exploration of our lives on pause. Lockdown gave everyone the opportunity to reflect, and that meant that people had to face their daily realities, their relationships, their jobs, their living situations in a way they never did before. We're a society living on autopilot, this album is a focus on people developing notions in the midst of crisis.
How did you approach the arrangement and composition of the music for this album?
Through solitude and melancholy mostly. I put a great emphasis on the lyrics, and the message the songs portray. I felt that it was important to compose the songs in a way that reflects change, and deliberately I have added the occasional chord change to reflect a change in the mood in the song. I never sat down to deliberately follow a pattern - although it's clear there are patterns - I just wanted the song to follow the story. In Production Michael Smith and I experimented so much with the songs, and nothing was off the table in terms of ideas. It really was a liberating approach to the art.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for this album 'NOTIONS IN MIDLIFE CRISIS'?
Quite a number really. Being open minded about the recording was in itself a stand out theme of the recording. Twice guitar player friends of mine were in the studio when I was recording, Ed Bennett and Omar Riaz Meléndez, both times we asked them to put some guitars on tracks, and both guys played absolutely brilliantly adding more to the album. This is an example of us just going with the flow on the album, and not trying to shoehorn things, or conform. Conformists are Lemmings and who wants to be a Lemming!?
What role do you feel emotions play in your music, and how do you channel them into your performances?
The entirety of the album is based on emotion, and how modern life, relationships and personal struggles affect every aspect of our lives. I think all music is based on emotions anyway, the level of emotion depends on the depth of the lyrics and the texture of the composition. I have certainly allowed a lot of introspect into the songs, and while there are a lot of observations, the standpoint of all the songs come from a feeling within.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a musician, and how did you overcome them?
Time is definitely the biggest problem all musicians have. Embarking on a career in music is certainly not for the faint hearted, it takes up so much of your time, and the knock on effect is challenges in family life and trying to maintain a functioning relationship with someone, it has certainly been a rollercoaster for me with that regard. Weekends aren't family time, they're overtaken by the gigs. I would say however, musicians rarely quit music, I've seen them try and fail which is both telling in terms of the character you have to be to be in this industry, but also how much music infects the soul in a positive way.
Fish And Scale “Stay!”
There’s magic in Fish And Scale’s music. Something mystical and powerful. Something that touches your forehead gently, but immediately stirs an epiphany. “Stay!” is a song of magic, but in truth, the song is naked compared to the ones that are lusciously dressed and heavily layered. Fish And Scale, in its unfiltered voice, open an honest dialogue with the inner self. Underneath his modest words, finger-picked guitars flow through gently.
There’s nothing very special about it, if you look at the surface. In fact, at first, you’d find it too simple. But when the music starts, the camera focuses on Fish And Scale, aka Roland Wälzlein, and there’s that moment when he gazes into the camera, the stripped-down transparency and nakedness in his eyes just shock you, and that’s exactly what it feels like listening to his music.
It’s an honesty that is hard to explain, but with Fish And Scale, you’d let him peel off the pretense layer by layer. There’s a profound trust between the listener and the singer, and it doesn’t come easily. It hardly ever happens. But you’d let him shake you up, give you goosebumps, draw your soul back into the moment. And his words, intense as they are humble, is nourishing as water to fish, and sharp like a sword. “Stay!” does something to you. In its humble escalation toward the catharsis, a tearful epiphany is at its climax. With songs like “Stay!,” you walk away feeling whole.
Read our interview with Wälzlein where we talk about his music journey.
Punk Head: I love the richness of your song and how it speaks to the audience with authenticity. Is there a specific real-life event that inspired "Stay!"?
Fish And Scale: All my songs are “autobiographical.” I write about the things I experience in me. “Stay!” is about a dialogue between the mind and an all-knowing inner entity. We are all connected inside this infinitely wise version of ourselves.
PH: What do you like the best about this track?
Fish And Scale: When I listen to this song I always get goosebumps :-) Especially at the end when it comes to a final peak.
PH: What was your favorite moment in making the music video?
Fish And Scale: I did the video with a good friend of mine. we shot the movie in his recording studio. His little kid was sometimes with us, it was fun.
PH: Can you tell us more about you as an artist?
Fish And Scale: I grew up in Franconia (a southern part of Germany). As a six-year-old child, I survived a serious heart operation. This life-and-death experience stayed with me all my life. Existential questions are reflected throughout my lyrics. A turning point was my first stay in a “silent retreat”, which completely changed my understanding of life. „Stay!“ is also inspired by that.
PH: What is the one thing that you’d like your fans to know about you?
Fish And Scale: I thank all the people who listen to my music and are inspired and touched by it
Jay Spicer “Lost”
“Lost” wins your heart over with its instant appeal, but the atmospheric captivation and evocation is what makes you stay. Ever-changing soundscape sets its tone in forward motion, while Jay Spicer’s cool, laid-back vocal is refreshing and unfitted. Piercing drums penetrates the dreamful guitarscape that swings between slightly dissonant moodiness and soothing sunshine. “Lost” tackles mental health issues that people of all ages could easily resonate. Though it is written from a place of struggle and unbalance, where the scale seems to be tilting heavily to one side every now and then, but the thriving energy speaks of a dedication about making choices to fight back against the stream.
Spicer’s tastefully crafted guitar progression captures the subtle yet complex shifts of mindset and mood. His guitar alone tells a rich story. But the collective sonic affirms a positive message that no matter how bad things are, one can choose to appreciate the moments in life and think positively. The track feels inspiring and encouraging. With introspective, honest lyrics that tackles socially aware issues, challenges and resolutions woven together through the soundscapes, “Lost” is easy to love. There’s a very youthful, unbendable strength that is at core in Spicer’s sonics that separate him from all other musicians. Hailing from Cornwall, England, the twenty-year-old guitarist/singer is here to make his own mark in the music scene.
Read our interview with Spicer where we talk about his journey as a guitarist and a songwriter.
Punk Head: I love the guitarscape in "Lost." How long have your been playing?
Jay Spicer: I started playing guitar when I was four years old, which was when instrumental lessons were first available in school. Sixteen years later I am now twenty and have never stopped playing, this is what has lead to me enjoying creating such full guitarscapes in my recordings.
PH: Who are some of your influences?
JS: My influences vary for different aspects of my music. With my guitar playing the main influence has been John Mayer as he is one of the people who can incorporate such interesting guitar playing into contemporary music. With my songwriting it is based around artists that I enjoy listening to, two of my favourite artists which I like to think of myself between are Sam Fender and Foo Fighters.
PH: Can you tell us a bit more about "Lost"?
JS: “Lost” was the result of having so many big events going on in my life that I was constantly thinking about the next one and never just savouring the moment that I was in. Instrumentally, I came up with the pre-chorus first when I was trying to slot some very odd chords together and then from there I knew I needed a nice main hook which was when I got the idea of the verse and chorus part. I then just sketched out the rest of the instrument ideas and had the basic bones of the song.
PH: How has studying at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts made an impact on your music career?
JS: It has had a very big impact on me as an artist as I am originally from a seaside town in Cornwall, the South of England, which is a beautiful area but has no music scene. So coming to Liverpool opened my eyes to what was available and meeting all of the people at university and be able to collaborate with them was amazing. Getting a band of my own together, finding sound technology students who always want to record my songs and even playing guitar for a few of my friends in their bands or in the studio has made it a very successful university experience.
PH: What is your creative vision as an artist?
JS: My creative vision is to be able to bring a new sound of acoustic/indie rock to the market which, combining with the influence from the sea and my home can be taken to a more commercial audience. This vision will be done as a performing and recording artist with my project.
Carnival Mind “Roam”
Guitars, voices, a melodies, and some words. That’s all they needed to make music. Humble but inspiring, Carnival Mind brings you a piece of music that is honest, light for its weight, but heavy for its meanings. They invite you to a corner of peace and happiness, to contemplate, think, and reflect. Asking for nothing, but giving so much to the rest of the world—that speaks true for them. Through words that are never complicated, lines that are full of wisdom, “Roam” challenges the mainstream style of life. Like Bob Dylan meets Jack Kerouac, unapologetic lyrics, harmonica, folk and country meets the free spirited artistic expression, “Roam” is about truth and freedom.
Breathing in the intense guitar work that pulses fiercely like the force of life, while melodies and harmonies weave together, sparking balance with conflicts, like the roaring nature that cannot be tamed, “Roam” storms through your whole body and mind, leaving you forever changed. “Freedom has its cost, but it’s not much of a price to pay; Cos I don’t have no answers, like many here I’ve lost my way.” Carnival Mind speaks nothing but what’s true for them, but why are we finding our answers in lines with no answers at all? Perhaps, that’s a journey for the listeners.
Carnival Mind is heading out on their North America tour soon, but before that, they will release an EP titled Sky’s the Limit in March, so stay tuned if you liked what you’ve heard. Check out our interview with the band and learn more the messages in their music.
Punk Head: I like the rich storytelling and the warm vibe in ‘Roam.’ What’s the meaning behind the song?
Carnival Mind: ‘Roam’ is a tale of discovery. It’s a journey into a world which we all inhabit but the question is … do we really understand that world at all?
With so many luminaries and icons that we are encouraged to blindly follow by society and the media, ‘Roam’ explores the alternative options to those long-kept beliefs. Carnival Mind has never shied away from challenging ideals of mainstream societal views of life.
Our songs like ‘5am,’ ‘Easy to Run,’ and ‘Wasted’ show that we’re not afraid to shine the light on social and political hypocrisies.
PH: Was there any challenge that you encountered while making the track?
Carnival Mind: We think a lot about our music and how people are going to perceive it and as a band, we always challenge ourselves to be honest and relevant, as long as the vibeis never compromised, ever. Often a song requires contemplation by the audience to truly understand what message is being delivered, however, sometimes the message is obvious. A song like ‘Remember’ allows people to immerse themselves into their own childhood memories. Whereas ‘One Year’ shows the vulnerability of relationships, especially for the one left behind after a breakup.
PH: What’s your goal this year?
Carnival Mind: Carnival Mind is just finishing off the final recordings for our debut album Sky’s the Limit, which is scheduled for release in the U.S. in March.
We appreciate the ongoing support of the American fans and hope they enjoy our music as much as we’ve enjoyed making it. There have been a lot of unsubstantiated rumours that Carnival Mind will be signed to a major U.S. record label later this year… Carnival Mind couldn’t possibly substantiate those unsubstantiated rumours. We can confirm that we’re still awaiting our invitation to headline ‘The Troubadour.’
PH: Who are your biggest influences?
Carnival Mind: When the American people get to listen to our new album Sky’s the Limit, they’ll hear the rock, country, folk and blues influences that is the Carnival Mind sound. We’re inspired by some of the greats of modern American music and their legacy shines bright in all our songs. They’ll also hear timeless songs like ‘Love Will Take Us There,’ ‘Shots,’ ‘King of Hearts,’ and ‘Married to the Blues.’
PH: What is the one thing that you’d like your fans to know about you?
Carnival Mind: We are so appreciative of our American fans as they’ve supported us with every song that we’ve released from the very beginning. American fans are the absolute greatest and Carnival Mind can’t wait to thank them all face to face with our North American tour, so stay tuned Folks!!
Carson Ferris “Drive Alone”
Inspired by the work of OneRepublic and Ryan Tedder, Carson Ferris’s music draws you in almost on an instant. Intriguing guitar work radiates melodies and rhythms, giving the track a nice indie touch, pulling audiences closer to the artist, then the infectious groove and even touching vocals glue you to the song. “Drive Alone” is an instant hit. It’s the kind of song that you simply can’t stop listening. And when it reaches its last note, the melodies continue to haunt you for long.
In “Drive Alone,” Carson Ferris delivers a message which everyone could relate: to take control of your own life and be in your own lane, not letting someone else or anything else to determine your life. There’s a lot of courage and momentum in his vocals and the sonics. Honesty and transparency seems to come natural in his music, and it shines through. The dynamic “Drive Alone” inspires changes and actions. Listening to this song is a healing and cathartic experience.
Check our interview with Ferris below, where we talk about his inspirations and music journey.
Punk Head: I absolutely love how appealing your storytelling in "Drive Alone" is. Can you tell us more about your musical journey so far?
Carson Ferris: Just like in Drive Alone, where I'm talking about not wanting to take the backseat and going my own way, sometimes I have to weigh the advice people give me. One time I was having a meeting with a social media guru that my former producer had introduced me to, and he thought it would be a good idea to put out a fake news story that my parents had gotten me engaged! At the time I was only eleven. These sort of situations have popped up all throughout my music career so far, and even just in everyday life, though maybe not usually that extreme.
PH: What do you like the best about this track?
Ferris: I like a lot of things about ‘Drive Alone,’ but if I had to pick one I would say I like the main guitar riff the most. Me and my producer were sitting in the studio working on this song, and he started plucking it out, and I was like, ‘yeah! That's the one!’
PH: What do you aim to accomplish in the near future?
Ferris: I’ve been spending lots of time in the studio, and I plan to be consistently releasing songs every 6 weeks, building up momentum and getting my music out there.
PH: Who are your biggest inspirations?
Ferris: One of my biggest inspirations is OneRepublic. What grabs me first is the rhythm and melody, but then I keep listening because the lyrics keep me interested. I really admire Ryan Tedder's lyric writing. In the song ‘Someday’ there's a line that goes: ‘Sometimes I drown in the weight of the things that I think I need.’ It uses a lot of cool imagery, and it really resonates with you. The melody usually comes easier to me, and the lyrics are more of a challenge, so I would love to pull people in with the melody, but then they stay for the lyrics.
PH: What is the one thing you’d like your fans to know about you?
Ferris: I want them to know that I really appreciate their support. It's an amazing and humbling feeling to know that I have fans who care about what I create and the music I share.
Sweeter Than Sorrow “the bond”
Sweeter Than Sorrow creates a soft and tender world in “the bond,” where the celestial piano and warm strings take you for a slow swirl on the romantic clouds under the stars.
Photo credit: Alina Wåhlberg
Sweeter Than Sorrow Showcases Songwriting on “the bond”
Sweeter Than Sorrow creates a soft and tender world in “the bond,” where the celestial piano and warm strings take you for a slow swirl on the romantic clouds under the stars. “the bond” is a song about the intimacy and love between soulmates, inspired by the creator of Sweeter Than Sorrow, Mattias Wåhlberg’s bond with his wife.
The song speaks the language of love, where tenderness and lightheartedness intertwine with trust and comfort. It gently lifts up your feet and whispers the genuine and poetic lyrics to your ears. Sweeter Than Sorrow doesn’t dwell on heavy instrumentations or layers of sounds, with a simple combination of piano and strings, he paints a beautiful soundscape that captures your heart.
The orchestration of this track is another highlight in songwriting as the mood and texture of the strings gradually shift along with Wåhlberg’s intimate vocal, expressing the introspective thoughts and emotions underneath.
“We knock on heaven’s door you and I
we taste the bliss that lies out of time,
we’re symbiotic we’ve cut the boundaries
we’re flying high up, on life’s narcotics”
Known for his poised and well-crafted lyricism, “the bond” by Sweeter Than Sorrow is a work of art.