Music Interviews

Where are you currently based?

I am currently based in the hinterlands of the Gold Coast. 🙂

What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?

To be honest, it hasn’t changed a whole lot for me.. I’ve been teaching the same amount and have been working on writing and recording some new tunes in the background. 

How did you first start playing music?

My mother caught me singing around the house (and everywhere I went) when I was about 9 and booked in a singing lesson for me. I’ve never looked back since. ? I fell in love with playing the piano, flute, cello, and started writing songs in Grade 10 after borrowing a guitar from my work experience week working at a primary school.

Your new single ‘DNM’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

Ah – for a long time (probably since I started writing). I always really wanted to write a pop song – the best pop song that I could ever write.  I’ve played in bands all throughout university and after I realised that I wanted to be a solo artist and pursue writing the ‘best songs’ that I could write. 

In the recent year, I’ve been wanting to challenge myself and try to write the catchiest, strongest pop song I can write. DNM was one of those songs that came out around that time.. I really love the fat synths from The Chainsmokers and am obsessed with ALMA and Years and Years’ music. I wanted DNM to fall in line with these artists. I wanted it to be catchy, and big and melodic. I hope I have achieved this. ? 

How did you go about writing DNM?

One night I was feeling supa lonely and had so many things I wanted to share with someone. “I’m dying for a DNM” came to my mind and I immediately went to the piano with my thoughts and this melody. That’s how it was born. When I played the hook on the piano “I’m dying for a DNM”, I knew there was something there worth trying to conceive. 

Please tell us about the studio that your partner and yourself built in the Gold Coast Hinterlands:

Yes! Ah, it has been a journey!

I used to own a music school in Parkwood, Gold Coast called Nighitngale Music. We did super well but I kind of struggled with managing the whole business as well as trying to pursue my own music, so I sadly decided to close down the school. The funny thing is that I would’ve had to close it down anyway because of the pandemic. Anyway! Josh and I live in the hinterlands and knew that building a studio was an option so my dad had us digging holes the very next week which would 

My room really is for artists to develop themselves. To come in, develop their singing voice and songwriting and for me to also help in any mentoring way that I can. One of my students Jenna is an up-coming singer-songwriter on the Gold Coast who’s only 17 and is AMAZING. I am so passionate about helping her in her musical career.

Josh on the other hand is the master-mind. He does an incredible job at understanding an artists’ vision and bringing that vision to life, mostly in terms of production but also in artist-development areas. He put in a lot of detail into making his space really accommodating for artists. His studio space design has a boutique feel and is super Instagram-able! 

We may plan to build a room for artists to stay here during their recording process, as well. We’ve called the studio ‘Our Space Studio’.

Is this where you recorded?

Actually, we recorded DNM mostly in our bedroom while the studio was being built however, we recorded my vocals at QSound with Maddy Breen.

Please tell us about your music teaching and who are some of your clients/students:

I have been teaching for a decade now and every year I seem to love it more and more. I really love to motivate and inspire people and I thoroughly enjoy teaching students who are currently singer-songwriters and wanting to break into the industry or kids who are passionate about music and singing.

One of my students, Jenna Cogzell who I mentioned above is a singer-songwriter with incredible talent. I’m trying everything I can to help guide her in the right direction. You should go check out her song Roses! Go now. ? ? 

You have a few upcoming releases with some collabs with popular artists, please tell us more:

Yes! I absolutely LOVE to collaborate. It’s so much fun and it kind of takes the ease off coming up with the chord progression and the feel. I think I tend to stick to the same patterns so it’s super refreshing and inspiring to write to something new.

I have a song coming out with TINY on October 23rd who is a good friend of mine and a successful DJ, producer and singer-songwriter! I am so honoured to be releasing her very FIRST original track with her called ‘On My Mind’. 

I also have a song coming out with the amazing Luke Howell who used to tour with One Direction!! (Fun fact!). We have a song called ‘Closer’ coming out in December.

And then I also have a collaboration coming out in November which this Instagram artist called Tokyonite from Kenya!! The track is a vapourwave pop-ballad and I absolutely can’t wait to release it because it’s been a dream of mine to record something like this!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Oh man, I found this chick called MARINA who I’m loving lately and also watched the Above & Beyond Acoustic live show which brought tears to my eyes – absolutely beautiful! 

What do you like to do away from music?

I actually like to be a boring 27 year old haha. I really enjoy just being at home and being creative.. Cooking, cleaning, gardening.. I also take care of my grandma and uncle who is disabled which brings me a lot of joy. <3 

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

I’ve got so many tracks coming out in the next 5 months, I am so excited! Mostly those collaborations but then hopefully a couple of more strong solo songs early 2021. 

Favourite food and place to hangout?

The Henchman in Miami is my new grill! The burgers are amazing and I’m so glad there’s live music there too. But otherwise, I really like Dust Temple or any cafes that allow me to sit and ponder for hours while drinking amazing coffee… 

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What is your name and role within Love Drunk Hearts?

Aaron Ikin – Main songwriter, lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist.

Where are you currently based?

The Northern Beaches of Sydney.

How did you first start playing music?

I had always had an inclination for poetry growing up and an ear for good music, but it wasn’t till I lost my dad at 21 to Motor Neuron Disease I taught myself guitar, singing and songwriting. I decided at that point music is twofold – great for self-expression but also a gift to someone else. 

How did Love Drunk Hearts form?

There was a warehouse in Brookvale on the Northern Beaches which was a bit of a hub for a lot of musicians and bands. Some features included an Elvis picture on the wall and a bike hanging from the ceiling. Benny Bryant (Bass) had auditioned Chris Falkland (Lead Guitar) to play in his old band Bec and Ben and invited Chris along to a party at the warehouse. Aaron was there with some pretty raw and undefined songs and hit it off with Chris over ‘Rock The Casbah’. Michael Brown (Drums) had also played with Benny in his old band so we asked if he wanted to jump on board. It clicked.

Your new single ‘Those Boys’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

The sound has a definite 90’s feel in both guitar and melody. I really love the Britpop songwriting. Oscar Dawson of HOLY HOLY produced the track and had such great input on the song sonically and structurally. 

How did you go about writing the track?

Initially I had come up with the verse and chorus melody over 2 chords. I sang this in practise, and everyone immediately clicked with it. Chris had been working on his own song called Ghost Town which had an eye worm riff like the 90’s. I couldn’t sing Chris’s melody as it was too high so we decide to marry the 2 songs together and it worked a treat. Brought the song to life and a great example of all our heads working together. We then took it into the studio with Oscar and he added a whole another level of knowledge, experience and flair!

Where and when did you record/produce and who with?

In Melbourne at Aviary Studios with Oscar Dawson. That was April last year. We had a blast.

How did you approach the recording process?

We came at it from a live feel. We all got in the room and tracked live. After 3 or 4 takes we would escape to the NASA control room and pick the best parts. Once the bed of the track was done we recorded the vocals and worked on extra guitar parts.  

How did the concept for the music video come together?

The inspiration for the video came from the title of the song (i.e. ‘Those Boys’). It along with the lyrics tend to ignite ideas that sometimes many men or boys can get lost in their own world of interest or passion. The 1978 BMX footage (that we were so fortunate to use) was a perfect vehicle for this, showing all the men passionately supporting each other, when people not part of this scene might not find it interesting/impressive at all. 

Who did you work with to create the music video?

It was in house. Brownie created and edited the video.

What do you like to do away from music?

Everyone in the band surfs which is great for writing sessions by the coast. Michael likes his woodwork. Ben and Chris have an unhealthy obsession with golf. Aaron likes to run half marathons and perform yoga stretches. 

Who are you listening to at the moment?

The new Taylor Swift album is great. I believe the guitarist from The National helped with the songwriting. I’ve been listening to some classic dance floor anthems like Praise You and Music Sounds Better With You. Love the idea of those circular melodies. It’s melody economy.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

Another track to release for summer. We’re currently putting the final touches on a new song, set to be released real soon and also getting ready to film some draft ideas for the video this week. 

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I’d have to say a burrito with chips. California style with a beer. The best every time. I love hanging out in Manly by the beach. Nothing better. Home in Freshwater isn’t too bad either.

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Where are you currently based?

I’m from Sydney’s Northern Beaches! I have lived here my whole life.

What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been?

My Covid experience was confusing and frustrating at times as I’m sure it has been for most people but I was also very blessed that my girlfriend moved in with me just before it all went crazy. We got a lot of time to hang out, relax and get a lot of song writing done.

How did you first start playing music?

I started playing piano in primary school. After a few years, I stopped and then ultimately picked up guitar instead. In high school my mates and I used to steal the guitars from the music room and jam in the park across the road. That was where I really found my passion for music.

Your new single ‘Trophy’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

My song writing never really feels influenced by anyone as I usually let my mind go blank and just see what comes out. The melodies that my vocals found were mostly just me dancing with the instrumental and the lyrics came from somewhere deep in my subconscious. The project I’m currently working on focusses on themes of ambition, hunger and pride, so to me Trophy feels like the track that best embodies the project as a whole.

How did you go about writing Trophy?

I had spent the last couple of weeks writing, recording, sending emails, finalising features and filming videos when I woke up to the realisation that I was finally at the point in my career that I had been dreaming of. I finally have business to attend to at all times and people who are waiting to hear what I create. This song was me allowing myself to be proud of that while still being aware of how much work I still have to do.

Where and when did you record/produce and who did you work with?

I recorded this track with Espa at his studio in Five Dock. My homie Ollie Roland mixed it for me in one massive 10 hour session. I drove to his house at 8pm and told him I needed this track to be perfect. I ended up driving home at 6am in the morning feeling very accomplished but mostly exhausted.

Where can we listen/buy?

Trophy is on every major streaming service! If you wanted to buy the song on Itunes or whatever people do these days that would be great too! The best way to support me is by joining up as a member on my website lanstanmusic.com

What do you like to do away from music?

Not much. If I’m not listening to or creating music, I’m sorting things out on the business end.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Recently, I’ve been loving watching The Kid Laroi’s run unfold. His album was as good as I could’ve hoped for and has already made a massive shift in the way Australian hip-hop is perceived.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

Just to keep dropping music! I spent the first half of the year organising a massive run for the back end. Now I’m working to make sure there’s a new song out every few weeks.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

Bacon Egg Roll! I just have to try and not eat one every day. My favourite place to hang out is the studio. When the vibes are good in there, nothing beats it.

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Where are you currently based?

I live on the Mornington peninsula in Victoria!

The boys are also originally from the area and Yara lives in Kew! It’s so nice being away from chaos of the city at the moment and having some calm!

What’s been happening recently and how has you Covid experience been so far?

It’s been challenging hey.

There have been lots of ups and downs but I feel that we are incredibly privileged to live in this beautiful part of the world and have access to all of the assistance and resources that we do.

I’ve taken this time to centre myself and write lots of new tunes.

Your new single ‘7Hundred25’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

The subject matter of 7Hundred25 revolves around realisation and acceptance. We wanted an extremely gradual build and to make the song fee like it was forever growing.

7Hundred25 has this simplistic and raw energy to it and we wanted it to really develop during the recording process!

How did you go about writing the track?

For this track in particular, I created the foundation with a simple two chord progression. The melody had already came to me and I wanted to incorporate numbers into my writing. Once I started jamming it out in my bedroom, I recorded a demo with harmonies – this is when the magic started to happen and the tune really came together!

Where and when did you record and who with?

We recorded with Quin Grunden, partly at Boxhill Institute and partly in his studio.

This track is a part of a compilation album released through Cousin Will Records so we are stoked to be a part of it!

How did you approach the recording process?

I think this song had a really solid structure coming into the studio. We knew which elements that we wanted to incorporate but hadn’t fully refined them yet. 7Hundred25 was recorded over roughly six sessions and we had lots of time between our studio visits to evolve our ideas even further.

What programs/equipment did you use? 

A stand out piece of equipment that we used for recording was the E-Bow. Our guitarist, Alex Marko, made the track shine with its beautiful, meditative, layered drone – it almost sounds like a violin!

Please tell us about the track vocals and instrumentation/harmony layers:

Vocals have always been at the forefront of our music. I resonate most with raw, powerful and emotive voices and lyricism.

We had so much fun adding all of the layers to the track and really adding that dynamic build.

I wanted the vocals / harmonies to become more emotional and prevalent as the song progressed and I feel that we achieved that.

We layered different sounds on Yara’s nord, had about 8 guitar tracks, a grand piano track, 2 bass tracks, a cymbal track, about 8 harmony tracks and the lead vocal track.

You run a charity organisation called Flo Events, please tell us about this:

Flo Creative Events is a not-for-profit events company that I co run with my beautiful artist friend, Shan Primrose. I guess our main focuses are creativity, community and charity.

We create various opportunities for people of various artistic backgrounds and local businesses. Shan and I put on wholesome events and quarterly magazines with each project donating money to important organisations. Flo is such a lovely community and we are super blessed to be a part of it!

What is your role in Fem Jams and what is Fem Jams all about?

Fem Jams is a project that I co run with Yara Alkurd and Pia Nesvara! These queens and I decided to create an empowering and inclusive jam space for all womxan.

Fem Jams occurs once a month at the Night Cat (out of isolation) and we curate an all female house band performance, paired with open jams once the energy is there!

We encourage woman to  network and support one another in this space and in the broader community!

You also book gender equality driven nights at the Night Cat called ‘Sonic Textures’ please tell us more:

I miss Sonic Textures so much.

Tuesday nights (pre Covid) I hosted events at the Night Cat that always had equal female representation for an entire year.

It was such a beautiful space and I can’t wait to get back into the swing of things to discover more incredible emerging artists and showcase their talent!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Lots of Lianne La Havas, Nasty Mars, Raveena and Lief Vollebekk!

Also heaps of local Aussie acts like Dulcie, Great Gable, Rissa, Benjamin Trillado, Indigo Mckeon and many more – what a great time to soak up all of the music!

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

We are planning to record and release an EP over the next 9 months. Unfortunately our national October Tour with Great Gable was postponed but we hope that we can get something going in 2021.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

At the moment I really miss The Night Cat –  being able to work at or watch a stunning performance then head to Shawcross Pizza on Brunswick street to get a late night slice was always such a good time!

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Where are you currently based?

I’m currently based out of beautiful British Colombia, Canada.

How did you first start playing music?

I switched schools in grade 3 to a school called Fraser Academy where my music teacher handed me a guitar. It was later that year I started singing and the rest is history.

What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?

I just released my latest single “The One” so my time has been revolving around that. otherwise its been nice spending time with my family and honing my craft.

Your new single ‘The One’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

We were going for a modern power ballad appeal with the sound and feel of the song. As for the songwriting the inspiration came from a little bit of heartbreak and of course.. a girl.

How did you go about writing The One?

I sat down with my co-writers/producers Brian Howes and Ryan Stewart, and opened up about being hung up on girl that had moved away. But she had helped me hold my head up and look for the good in people and experiences. It’s a bit bitter sweet bitter sweet but im thankful for the experience.

Where and when did you record/produce?

‘The One’ was recorded at Ryan Stewarts studio in North Vancouver, late summer of 2019

How did you approach the recording process?

We demoed the song right after writing it. When we went to record the official vocals we got some solid takes, But the emotion and execution of the demo vocals were just so raw and ended up being what we used for the final cut of the song.

Please tell us about the music video that’s on the way:

-The video was filmed around my hometown at some of my favorite places hangout. Due to covid-19 everyone on set was in my little bubble of people and was overall a day for the record books. The video plot is just as the song says.. a journey of heartbreak and finding the one.

You have a debut album in the works, can you give us an idea of what we can expect?

‘Richard’ is my introduction to the world. I just wanted to show people who I am and give them something to sing along too, maybe even something to sit back and think about.

What do you like to do away from music?

I love exercising and being outdoors! If I’m not at home or working on music, you can find me at the gym, in the mountains, or on the motorcycle.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I’ve had Sting, The Fixx, and The Kooks on repeat all summer.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

Hopefully releasing more music, maybe a couple shows, and putting time into mastering my craft.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I love sushi, and I love riding my bike to the park I used to go to as a kid.

What’s been happening recently?

I just released my debut single “10 Out of 10”. I have been extremely fortunate to spend a lot of my time creating and collaborating with other artists on exciting upcoming projects.

How has you Covid experience been so far and how has it affected how you create?

So far, my COVID experience has been a complex and fascinating process. Initially, I was entirely unnerved by the lockdown. Pre-pandemic, it had never occurred to me how much of my work and lifestyle in general revolved around the gathering of people. This April was a time of deep reflection and re-evaluation. I took the opportunity to be honest with myself and take stock of which activities I was sad to miss, versus which activities I was relieved to be excused from. I have had to let go of a lot of stressors and instead focus on things which are in my control. I have been inspired by artists and arts organizations who have taken on trail blazing roles to transition musical opportunities into online/ COVID friendly experiences. Every day, I challenge myself and choose to think about what I can do rather than what I cannot do. 

How does living in Argenta, BC affect your creative process?

Living in a remote mountain paradise is a big part of my story. I was raised to respect the environment and appreciate spending time in nature. Many of my melodic and lyrical ideas are revealed to me whilst walking forest trails or swimming in Kootenay Lake. I have always valued  how much the space, quiet, and freedom of my surroundings have contributed to my creative process. 

How did you first start playing music?

Singing has always felt like the most natural way of expressing myself. When I was fourteen, my dad bought me my first guitar and I started teaching myself chords; I was inspired by the fantasy of being musically independent and accompanying myself with a travel friendly instrument. 

What instruments do you play?

Guitar 

How do you usually go about writing and recording music?

I use acoustic guitar and my voice as the main tools in my writing process, improvising until I land on something that resonates. Typically, first come the chords and melodies, then I begin negotiating the lyrics. When I record, I like to start with acoustic guitar and vocals as the bones of the song. I’ll listen back and sing along to discover ideas for instrumentation and parts. Sometimes it’s fast, and other times it takes longer, but sooner or later the arrangement takes form through trial, error, and experimentation.

Please tell us about any current music and or music that you have on the way:

My new single “10 Out of 10” is freshly released! This has been an incredibly inspiring season for me. I can barely keep up with all the songs I have been writing and reviving. There is so much music to come and I am so excited to share it.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

If the World allows, in 5 years, I see myself touring internationally, perpetually writing songs, and collaborating with some of my favourite musicians. 

How are you dealing with no live shows?

I do find it difficult. Despite all the incredible efforts to present performances virtually, I really miss connecting with audiences in person. There is no substitute for the magic of live music. One thing I have learned is I will never take an audience for granted ever again! 

What will you do once all the Covid restrictions are lifted?

Travel and tour internationally!

Who are you listening to at the moment?

Lukas Nelson, Lianne La Havas, Kacey Musgraves, Taylor Swift, William Prince, Ruby Waters, & Khruangbin

What do you like to do away from music?

I love travelling, meeting new people, seeing new things, hiking, and spending quality time with friends. 

Who or what influences your sound and style?

Joni Mitchell has been the single-most influential artist on my singing, playing, and songwriting. My sound and style is a culmination of the folk music of my childhood, my choral background/ affinity for vocal harmony, and elements of jazz music from my college education.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

So far on the agenda for 2020/ 2021: a handful of intimate and socially distanced concerts/ livestreams, and as much audio and video recording as possible!

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I could talk about food all day; it’s impossible to choose just one favourite! My list includes spanakopita, quinoa salad, traditional thin crust margherita pizza, and tacos! I like to hang out at a secret beach or a trail with a view.

Where are you currently based?

 We’re from inner Sydney Australia.

How did you first start playing music?

 Olive started playing violin at 5 years old and was in many orchestras/school bands, while I was a choir nerd. In high school we became band nerds that rebelled and dreamed of being in an indie rock band.

How did Egoism form?

So those two rebellious band nerds realised they had a really similar taste in music and decided that they could maybe sorta form a real band!

What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?

It’s been just busy with us recording, writing and producing this Ep as well as a whole bunch of other songs!

Your new single ‘Here’s The Thing’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

We’re both very influenced by British pop, particularly trip hop but also some modern artists like No Rome and the 1975. Just the idea of chopping up these dirty sampled instruments and putting them over the top of an emotional guitar based song feels so exciting.

 How did you go about writing Here’s The Thing?

 Olive wrote the song as a reflection on a really hard time in their relationship. They had this sad melody and lyrics but decided to play it on top of this cool breakbeat sample they were obsessed with at the time.

You have an EP on the way, please tell us what we can expect:

 A whole bunch of sad ass songs with good pop sensibilities!

Where and when did you record/produce?

It’s pretty darn DIY, cause recorded and produced pretty much everything (other than the drums) on this EP ourselves, at either Scout or Olive’s house. 

How did you approach the recording/production process?

Our songs almost always start off as weird little demo on Logic that we’ll show each other before the other says “hmm, it’s good but keep working on it”. Then we tinker and tinker until eventually it’s ready to be mixed and mastered! 

What did you find most challenging/rewarding during the creation on the EP?

Going into the production of each track we’d often have a really specific sound we wanted. So there was a lot of fiddling and trying wild stuff until we got the sound we were looking for. Matthew Neighbour mixed all the songs on the EP and honestly he’s a trooper for working with us to get it right. 

Who are you listening to at the moment?

 Really loving the singles from the upcoming Vacations album, but other than that I’ve been on a bit of an electronic binge so mainly Four Tet.

What do you like to do away from music?

 Olive has been really getting closer to their hipster roots by diving into the analogue photography world. I really love having a million other hobbies that I don’t take seriously nor get that good at (like baking, hand-sewing and gardening I’m terrible at them but they’re darn fun).

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

 Oh definitely writing and recording more, hopefully playing shows and just trying to enjoy ourselves as much as possible.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I can say with confidence that our fav food is definitely banh mi and fancy woodfired margarita pizza. And I’d say we both like to hang out at either a friend’s house or on a walk in a really pretty place.

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Where are you currently based?

I live in the Czech Republic, and I like it here so far, but who knows what the future brings. 

How did you first start playing music?

I started playing music when I was about 2 years old because I was highly influenced by my siblings who are great musicians. They played at home often so I became familiar with different tones and sounds. They used to play punk, which may explain why my music is alternative.

What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?

I don´t know how to correctly explain that as it was a very new experience, but for me it has been a disaster. The economy is in trouble and Covid PR is unbelievable. We are constantly being fed information 24/7. There have been a lot of restrictions put in place and this has created a worldwide panic. It’ll be interesting to see the information and end result of everything once things settle down.

Your debut album ‘Discovery’ will be coming out in the next few months of 2020, what influences your sound and songwriting?

This is something connected to my inner self. A bit of my life, but mostly, imaginary stories or ideas. I like imagination and the concept of dreaming. It’s as if you feel that there can be another part of yourself which is struggling through the world. Do we know who we really are? I think that there is a new phenomena in this world and we actually aren´t supposed to be ourselves. We are just parts of a machine and our inner selves are hidden somewhere behind that chaos of malicious thoughts and ideas coming from the outer world. And I suppose my songwriting is highly influenced by the unrecognizable inner motions that keep me alive, separated from things happening outside. I have to say, music is protecting me from going crazy sometimes, especially when I think about what´s been happening around the world.

How do you usually go about writing music?

Technically, I start with rhythm, then I do some music, like melodies and other components. Then I think about lyrics and so on. This is all technical, but there is the question of mood, a very important topic for me but it´s hard to say, this is a process of random behaviour.

Please tell us about the way you approach recording the process that you go through:

There is actually no process I go through. Our current state is the one we have been living in since birth and we have to just “enjoy and live”. The whole process is a manifestation of joy.

What programs/instruments do you use?

I play the bass, guitar, drums, piano and I use my voice mostly. As for programs, I use various ones that I discovered mostly one my own. Each artist has a different style so I’ve definitely found the programs that work for me personally.

What do you find most rewarding and challenging when creating and recording music?

To create the best piece of music I have ever heard.

What do you like to do away from music?

I like travelling, partying and meeting new people.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

It’s hard to say because there isn’t much that I connect with. The other day I listened to ZHU and Radiohead, who I’ve always liked. Apart from that, nothing brand new that has caught my attention.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

To save the world, maybe, because this is the most important thing, and I am not the only one. There are many people who would like to do the same. So, when we all try our best, we will achieve that, and everything will be fine. There are many ways to accomplish that.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I love a lot of pubs here in the Czech Republic. One of the greatest Mexican restaurants is situated in Pilsen where I used to live. When I want to go out for a meal, I like to choose that one. When I want to hang out, I prefer going to Zach´s Pub, which is an Irish pub, or other local places such as Raven.

Keoni will release his first album ‘’Discovery’’ on October 12^th

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Where are you currently based?

Sydney.

How did you first start playing music?

I started playing the drums when I was 3 as my dad was already in two bands.

What’s been happening recently and how has your Covid experience been so far?

Personally For me Covid has been amazing creatively.  I went up to Byron in the beginning and recorded an EP with Veptune. Then came to Sydney and moved in with Ronald Fredricks and recorded another EP.

Your new single ‘Get Over Yourself’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

Get Over Yourself was the first song I recorded with Veptune. The hook I came up with after watching a friend battle his own Ego which in turn effected everyone around him.

Where and when did you record/produce and who did you work with?

We recorded and wrote the song in Wollongong in Veptunes old studio. With Veptune.

What programs/equipment did you use?

We use Logic.

Where can we listen to Get Over Yourself?

Spotify, Soundcloud and Youtube.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

I am currently listening to Salt N Pepper ‘None Of Your Business’.

What do you like to do away from music?

The music doesn’t ever stop I guess the challenge is finding a break away from it. I do like to ride my bike but I’m Usually writing as I ride.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

I’m releasing my next single ‘It Makes Me ILL’ in 4 weeks .

Favourite food and place to hangout?
Sophia’s in Erko Lad.

Where are you currently based?

I’m currently based in the humble western suburbs of Sydney.

What’s been happening recently and how did you first start playing music?

I recently released my EP “Warm Blooded”  and very happy with the reception and attention it has been receiving.  I’m currently working on some photo shoots and collaborative projects with talented people, and hope to release more visuals to support the EP.

I started exploring music as a child playing piano, my mother enrolled me in piano lessons which I didn’t really like. From that point onward I started to teach myself music as a hobby which eventually led to creating  my own brand of music.

How did you first start playing music?

During high school I started to teach myself guitar and explored musical hardware. I purchased some synthesisers and started playing around with Garageband. A couple years later I picked up Ableton and taught myself how to create songs and produce. It’s the year of 2018 and at this point I wanted to learn how to rap and sing. I was very inspired by Brockhampton and their DIY approach to releasing amazing visuals and creating music, and I knew If I put some work in I could create projects which would could display everything I’ve taught myself.

Your new EP ‘Warm Blooded’ is out now, what influenced the sound and songwriting?

The EP was highly inspired by Artists such as Brockhampton, Jpeg Mafia, Sade and various other artists. The song writing elements and theme of the EP is based around my personal experiences with people I’ve met, situations that tested me and love. I wanted to continue to create instrumentals that reflected the moods of my circumstances. The EP was created during some tough times, and for most artists trials and tribulations  have a strange way of  inspiring us to express and make something of the hardships.

How did you go about writing the EP and who did you work with?

I collaborated with Thinkbot films  for the production of the film clip, and also worked with Evergreen Artists to push the release. In relation to the  musical and graphic elements of “Warm Blooded” I worked alone. I love working on musical projects because I can produce and write the story of the project with full control. I am also a digital artist and designer, and love that I can make two worlds collide under one concept.

Where and when did you record/produce/master and who with?

I have a home studio where I do all of the above. The project was written during late 2019 and the duration of 2020.

How did you approach the recording process?

It changes with every song I create, Sometimes I jump straight into the booth, other times I spend a lot of time crafting the lyrics and then build the song around the narrative.  Having constant access to my studio is a highly valuable resource and I do my best to spend as much time as possible recording or writing. At times I do hit obstacles and have to encourage myself to keep working.

What programs/instruments did you use?

I use a variety of instruments and software to create my music. I love Ableton and software instruments, having a  whole orchestra at your finger tips is pretty wild. I liked to use my Roland electronic piano to start melodies and occasionally pick up my Electric and acoustic guitar to also lead the direction of my songs.

What did you find most challenging and rewarding during the creation of Warm Blooded?

The challenging part was to create something that still had elements of my last album  “Planet Cool” whilst evolving it at the same time. I don’t like boxing myself in and want to be able to grab elements of all the genres I like to create my work. When I wrote “Genuflect” and “Apple” I knew I was on to something different and I started to nourish that seed.  Releasing “Aversion” was very  fulfilling and I was stoked that I finally let the project loose into the world.

Who are you listening to at the moment?

A lot of Latin lounge/jazz, Freddie Gibs, Action Bronson, Brockhampton, Soulection radio and Nujabes.

What do you like to do away from music?

I love creating art both digital and traditional, I read a lot books and comics and love video games and film. Any form of digital entertainment really. I’m always on my road bicycle and spend a lot of time with my friends.

What’s planned for the remainder of 2020 going into 2021?

At this point in time I can’t really say, I tend not to think too far ahead. I’d like to release some more film clips possibly for songs from “Warm Blooded”. I’m currently working on another musical project with a friend of mine and plan to release that hopefully this year or early next year.

Favourite food and place to hangout?

I am a fiend for dumplings and you can often find me lurking around Parramatta CBD.

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