Soto Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Jazz Features, Jazz Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , , , , |

Soto
Interview


Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Soto:
Jazz, R&B, Funk, Soul, Neo-Soul, Hip-hop. New to the UK Jazz scene, Soto is a trio born out of Brighton with a foot in the doors of Jazz, R&B, Funk & Soul. Blending intricate rhythms and unique melodies, their feel is both a tribute to the scene, and something new altogether.


Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Soto:
Soto aim to make their audiences smile and groove with their work; something which undeniably helps this is the chemistry between the three founding members. Having all met in their first year at medical school, music was initially something of a side-hustle, but as the years passed it became more and more an integral to them as individuals and as a collective. Now, with their time at university drawing to a close, and a debut EP online, there'll be at least a few heads wondering what will be coming next from these guys.


Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Soto:
The feeling that first connected each of us to music is re-experienced on a regular basis. There is a deeply moving experience that arises when hearing the work of artists that touch us, and this similarly is something that is felt when we connect musically as a collective or as individuals. Music is possibly the most significant bringer of joy in any of our lives, which is why we are so determined - even with careers as doctors ready to begin - to make this a central part of our future. A life without music would always feel empty in a way.


Nagamag:
What do YOU enjoy most about writing and playing your music?

Soto:
We are all genuinely dedicated to the musical journey that we're on together. There's nothing better than when we meet for band practice and one of us says 'I've been working on this recently - what do you think?' and plays something beautiful. Many of our songs have come from one person bringing an idea forward for us to jam with, or quite literally just appearing from jams. This makes the process of writing so fun, and something we always look forward to. Similarly, what could be more fun than bringing music into a live setting? We love to improvise and leave lots of room for our songs to be different each time they are played so we can fully express ourselves musically any time we meet - we think of music as a conversation between the three of us and any listeners that may be present.


Nagamag:
Where do you see yourselves going musically?

Soto:
We hope to continue to challenge ourselves. We are always trying to explore new themes, try new things and push each other more and more musically, and this is something we hope to keep going. What we aim to do is continue writing music and hopefully entertaining people with our work. We would love to carve our a career in music, and we are so driven to this that we hope we're fortunate enough to just get that break that we need to make this viable. Whatever happens though, we want to enjoy every step of the way and be present in this journey, wherever it may go.


Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Soto:
Celeste "Both Sides of The Moon"


Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Soto:
Prime Panda "State Your Business"

Discover & Listen to Soto

Soto on Spotify

Soto's Signature Track

Soto on Social Media

Hypnotic Peafowl Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Psychill Features, Psychill Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , , |

Hypnotic Peafowl
Interview

Photo by Timothée Prézélus


Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
Giving a very specific genre to my music is not easy. especially when it comes to my "alternative" productions. I think that my music is situated between Basse music with a jazzy side and synthetic textures like halfred or mindex ... and the ethnic and psychedelic side that we can find with merkaba music. The more time passes, the more my compositions are built around the musical instrument. My next outings will be much more hybrid with a very funk very colorful side. ideal music to listen to at home and play with a group in concert for example. but if I had to give only one name to write my "alternative" music I would say jazzy psybass


Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
For me everything went particularly fast.I don't have a past as an instrumentalist, I did some drums lessons at the age of 7 and I stopped there. I discovered the world of the night at a young age (14 years) with the meeting of friends who organized evenings in all the region where I lived. But it never occurred to me to make music. It's only been 4 years since I started composing MAO. I lived in a shared flat where a friend had a very old computer which was not useful to anyone with an old version of ableton (I laugh today because it took at least 20 minutes to turn on the computer haha) for no reason or any ambition i turned on ableton i typed "psytrance ableton" on you tub is since i haven't spent a day without making music. I spent 3 years learning composition, mixing, musical theory, harmonization. advance use of ableton ... for 3 years I didn't go out (it's no joke I had to do 5 evenings with friends) I watched tutorials on you tub every day, I I bought a lot of music books ... then after that I played my first concert in 2018 thanks to an association of the region which is called "Lunarmouth" it is the only association which shows to the general public the psychedelic culture at home. (today I am the president) then everything went very very quickly for my project, I released my first album "enygma" independently a few weeks after this 1st date. after that I got 41 concerts in my 1st year of activity in 2018/2019. I had the pleasure of playing all over France. I also produced 28 music during this period which gave me constant visibility on the net. In 2019 I officially joined the Hadra records label. Hadra obviously offers me great visibility throughout France but also enormous support for my professionalization and allows me today to make music. in February 2020 I published my new EP on Zenon records which is a great joy for me because it is one of the best world label in my eyes. Today I am fortunate to live in France and benefit from a special status unique to France which allows me to live on my music. I have more and more dates, programmed a few times a year in advance and the international market is beginning to open its doors to me. I continue to bring the psychedelic movement to life in my region by organizing evenings every month with my associations and the support of all its members and of course that of the best club in the city in my eyes "the front door". I give MAO lessons in my studio during the week when I am not producing and I go to play on weekends. I have a busy life and it is an immense pleasure to live that.


Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
I remember my 1st party it was Timegate in Switzerland for New Year it is a huge Psytrance party over several days but it was not a revelation for me. honestly the first time electronic music had a real impact on me it was in 2018 (haha yes it was not long ago) I went to an open air psytrance very far from home (10h of car) and I met Version Bizar. I first listened to his live and then I met the man afterwards. The meeting with him mixed with the Zenonesque style of his music was a revelation for me at that time. We had a very strong connection together and it made me discover so much incredible music. He played a bass music djset later that evening and I heard kinds of music that I wasn’t able to imagine before. So I would say that if I have a memory that marked me the most with music and the most changed is this Leon meeting, he became a real source of inspiration for me and will remain so.


Nagamag:
What is your vision of electronic music ?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
For me music is a language that you have to learn in order to master it and develop it. I think that electronic music responds to the same code as acoustic music when we talk about music theory, harmonization, the placement of its instruments in the stereo field ect ect. My vision of electronic music is what allows me to explore even further the sound systems and the design of my sounds but also the impact on the live spectator, the physical experience it brings. Playing with emotions is achievable with any type of music (jazz, rap, electro ...) but playing on the physical sensations in concert and something specific to electronic music I find. We have certain constraints with our instrument certain limits impossible to exceed. Electronic music allows me to go further. But beware if I have a Rhode, a piano or any other instrument I don't see the point of replacing it for an electronic version. I imagine that like two completely complementary world one will never replace the other but they complement each other perfectly well if the artist makes sense in the use of electronic music.


Nagamag:
What was most important to you in your career and what do you recommend?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
I would say that having a supportive environment is very important. having the presence of mind to analyze our friends and ask the question of their knowledge in the world of music is important. for example when we make listen to our music to our friends most tell you that they are good and do not dare to hurt you (unconsciously for the most part). you have to know create an entourage of people who will hustle you when your productions are not at the top. Its very important.
Have someone who accompanies you on a daily basis and who understands the issues. for my part it is my companion who supports me from the beginning (morally and financially)
knowing my shortcomings and developing personal techniques to stimulate well-being was of great help to me. Meditation for example.
And finally i would say that good management of your project is essential from the start. In our hyper connected era it is important to pay attention to one's artistic image and not to mix private and professional life.


Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
Aukai "La Joya"


Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Hypnotic Peafowl:
5am Trio Transmission 1 - Supa > Concentrated

Discover & Listen to Hypnotic Peafowl

Hypnotic Peafowl on Spotify

Hypnotic Peafowl's Signature Track

Hypnotic Peafowl on Social Media

Daytuner (Moai System) Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Psychill Features, Psychill Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , , , |

Daytuner (Moai System)
Interview


Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Daytuner (Moai System):
Ambient, Downtempo, Psydub, Chillout, Cinematics


Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Daytuner (Moai System):
As a music producer, from classical background (15 years of violin and music school) to electronic music for more than 30 years, I feel so grateful because that gave me great opportunities to meet, learn and work with amazing artists from all around the world. I recently decided to get FULLY involved in the music industry and my band (Moai System) already released several Eps and singles with different indie labels including Nutek Chill since December 2017. I'm also the manager of a webradio (Pranamusic Radio) specialized in promoting electronic music for 2 years.


Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Daytuner (Moai System):
I was 6 years old, and I was watching a concert of Yehudi Menuhin playing a concerto of Brahms for violin. The sound mesmerized me totally, and from this moment I knew my fate was emotionnaly linked to music.


Nagamag:
What attracts you in the electronic music production ?

Daytuner (Moai System):
The alchemy of sound and composition. Pushing the frontiers of imagination, while working with evocative sounds and mixing harmonies.


Nagamag:
Philosophical question : According to your experience, what is the "essence" of creativity in music terms ?

Daytuner (Moai System):
Difficult question, but I would say that a music composer and an artist in general has this skill (gift) which makes him/her able to receive (consciously or not) these higher vibes and to interpret or translate them with emotions linked to his/her personal history in that world.


Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Daytuner (Moai System):
Club Des Belugas "Save A Little Love For Me"


Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Daytuner (Moai System):
Hinkstep "I Guess My Heart Got Carried Away"

Discover & Listen to Daytuner (Moai System)

Daytuner (Moai System) on Spotify

Daytuner (Moai System)'s Signature Track

Daytuner (Moai System) on Social Media

Daytuner (Moai System)'s Website

Project Divinity Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Ambient Features, Ambient Interviews, Features, Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , |

Project Divinity
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Project Divinity:
Chillout, Ambient, Drone

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Project Divinity:
I have been producing music in my home studio since 2006 focusing on cinematic and ambient styles. I have a few different artist monikers that each focus on specific style and genre of which Project Divinity is the most ambient and laid back one. Others include Celestial Aeon Project (cinematic / soundtrack), Frozen Silence (piano) and Celestial Alignment (lofi beats) to name a few. I don't have a strong classical background nor have I studied composition nor arrangement, so you can say I'm mostly self learned and approach music from improvisation and "using my ear" kind of angle. Usually I just push record and start playing.

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Project Divinity:
I have always loved music and played piano and guitar since a small child, but I think the moment that really got me interested in production was back in the day when I first played a computer role playing game Baldur's Gate which had a gorgeous cinematic soundtrack by Michael Hoenig. It just got me thinking that if even games can have this kind of music I want to be a part of the realm in which these soundtracks are being created.

Nagamag:
What do you think of the streaming services and way the internet has changed the music business?

Project Divinity:
I think in many ways they have opened up new possibilities especially for indie producers like myself. Before this era there were no means for an unknown musician to get the music heard anywhere. Only way was through traditional labels and "gatekeepers". Process was heavy and hard to get started. But these days the freedom comes from the fact that after you have created your tune, after a few mouse clicks you will get it on the streaming services and potentially heard all over the world. There are no more gatekeepers to keep you from reaching that point. It's more about the music and the listener and how to create that connection instead of how the get the music heard in the first place. I personally find this new world a fascination realm full of possibilities. But I do understand that for many who were "happy in the old world" it's not that simple.

Nagamag:
What does music mean to you?

Project Divinity:
It is a complex thing. When I create music, I sometimes think practically like "what would people want to hear" and then approach that question from my side, finding a balance between what is my sound, but still something I think some other listener might enjoy as well. But then there also comes these moments of pure creation when I just get the urge to create exactly what I want no matter if anyone else enjoys it or not. So it's a scale between totally personal and "I do it for the others" kind of state of mind. But music itself is one of the most interesting forms of art and something bigger than life itself.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Project Divinity:
Pat Metheny "Tell Her You Saw Me"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Project Divinity:
Biosphere "Poa Alpina"

Discover & Listen to Project Divinity

Project Divinity on Spotify

Project Divinity's Signature Track

Project Divinity on Social Media

Christoph Sebastian Pabst Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Neoclassical Features, Neoclassical Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , , |

Christoph Sebastian Pabst
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Christoph Sebastian Pabst:
Chillout, Ambient, Electronic, Deephouse

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Christoph Sebastian Pabst:
I started in 1992 with an Amiga 500, the 4-track music program Octamed and an 8-bit sequencer! Bit by bit new elements were added, a Korg 01w / FD, an Atari computer was needed for the first Cubase, later a PC, in 1998 I had a real studio with many analog synthesizers, one of the first digital mixing consoles, Akai samplers and so on. Back then, I had done a lot of music with a friend and later a DJ from Bremen, house and techno. When I first moved to Heidelberg 2001, I no longer had the space for a studio and gradually sold everything and only had a PC, a master keyboard and speakers. Because of my medical studies I had less and less time for music, that was in Marburg, where I also met my current colleague Thomas Lemmer. Many years later I sent him a few tracks and our first song Pastelstrand was released on his album pure! After that we released our first EPs and album together. We also got great remixes for the EPs. We are currently working on our second album and I am really looking forward to the next release! stay tuned, it's worth it!

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Christoph Sebastian Pabst:
I first love to electronic music was like written bevor the Amiga 500! Before that I had no real music style and I mostly heard charts. It was great to experiment and to experience electronic music in every detail. Jean michel jarre was my role idol.

Nagamag:
Did you make money with music?

Christoph Sebastian Pabst:
Yes, of course, a fraction of a cent per stream. Last year I earned almost a few euros! :-) still nothing to live on. But music should primarily make people happy, when money is added it is nice but not important.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Christoph Sebastian Pabst:
Vangelis "Conquest of Paradise"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Christoph Sebastian Pabst:
Thomas Newman "Any other Name"

Discover & Listen to Christoph Sebastian Pabst

Christoph Sebastian Pabst on Spotify

Christoph Sebastian Pabst's Signature Track

Christoph Sebastian Pabst on Social Media

Pedro Meirelles Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Neoclassical Features, Neoclassical Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , |

Pedro Meirelles
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Pedro Meirelles:
Contemporary Classical, Minimalist Classical, Brazilian Classical

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Pedro Meirelles:
I’m a composer/producer from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I’ve loved classical music and rock my whole life, so, besides composing and producing my solo instrumental catalogue throughout the years as an independent artist, I’ve also worked at different projects with names from the rock world such as Andrew Scheps (Rick Rubin), Serj Tankian (System of a Down) and Gogol Bordello.

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Pedro Meirelles:
Yes, getting in touch with the score of the movie “The Adventures of Chatran”, by Japanese composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, which I listened to for the first time when I was around 4. At the time, I got so obsessed with the film because of its beautiful and hypnotic synth music that I wanted to go watch it over and over again at the theater.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Pedro Meirelles:
Nirvana "Lithium"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Pedro Meirelles:
Philip Glass "Vanessa and the Changelings"

Discover & Listen to Pedro Meirelles

Pedro Meirelles on Spotify

Pedro Meirelles' Signature Track

Pedro Meirelles on Social Media

Pedro Meirelles' Website

Silona Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Indie Features, Indie Interviews, Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , |

Silona
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Silona:
Dream pop, Indie, synth pop.

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Silona:
As a young adult I was a vocalist in choirs and acapella group. Not long until I formed my own group named "Intonica" which had glorious success in the European choir scene. At 2009 the group of five singers (including myself) won grand prize in the international Musica Mundi’s choir games. While harmonies and vocal technics had always been great friends of mine, it could never measure to the comfort I find in creating my own sound, melody and lyrics. In February 2018 I have finally released the first song of the debut EP - Immortal. In February 2020 the entire EP is set to be unveiled with the last single's 'Goodbye Friend' release.After two years of performing and touring with the Immortal EP, nowadays I am concentrated on producing new music.

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Silona:
I was probably 4 years old pressing notes on our home organ, figuring out how to play out loud the melodies I have in my mind. I would usually sing them to myself, then find the notes place on the instrument. Not much have changed, since then.

Nagamag:

You mentioned a new song release in February 2020. Could you tell us more about this song?

Silona:
'Goodbye Friend' ... symbolically enough seals my debut EP with desperation of an unsung goodbye. When I first wrote it, the first part that came to my mind both melodically and lyrically was the chorus. I remember sitting in my apartment, crying the loss of my dearest pet friend who has just died. I still to this day have the recording of me singing and playing the guitar of that same heart tearing chorus. Five years later I confronted myself with these emotions and rewrote the whole song, though singing about a whole other individual. Just as we are all immortal, at the same time all have an end.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Silona:
Ars Antiqua De Paris "Reis Glorios"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Silona:
Mazzy Star "Into Dust"

Discover & Listen to Silona

Silona on Spotify

Silona's Signature Track

Silona on Social Media

Silona's Website

William Ogmundson Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Neoclassical Features, Neoclassical Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , , , , , |

William Ogmundson
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

William Ogmundson:
I draw from so many styles...classical music has always been my primary influence, but I've worked quite a bit in musical theater, and also play ragtime, stride piano and early jazz. I take all of my influences and try to channel them into the neoclassical/solo piano genre.

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

William Ogmundson:
It was only a couple years ago that I started taking my career as a recording artist seriously. Before that, I was a working musician for about 20 years. I did accompanying, played piano and organ in churches, taught lessons, performed locally, and composed primarily for the theater. I never made it "big" but got to perform in some pretty neat places along the way, including Notre Dame and the Vatican. I was nominated for an EMMY for a children's TV show I composed for, and one of the musicals I composed for was published by Dramatic Publishing.

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

William Ogmundson:
My first experience was picking out an Icelandic folksong "A Sprengisandi" on the piano. I couldn't have been more than 3 or 4 years old at the time, but I had that sudden revelation that wow, I could really do this-I could make music. I could be one of those people.

Nagamag:
What is the strangest song you've every written?

William Ogmundson:
I had written a pretty little solo piano ballad, but couldn't think of a good title, so I shared it on facebook and asked people to help me come up with one. I got many predictable responses like "Lover's Last Kiss" or "Passion in the Rain", but none of them did anything for me. Then one wise guy suggested calling it "Squirrel's Last Crossing" and immediately the wheels started spinning! I sat down and wrote a new song to go with the title, and it's been a hit with audiences ever since.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

William Ogmundson:
Eminem "Lose Yourself"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

William Ogmundson:
Greg Maroney "Breathe"

Discover & Listen to William Ogmundson

William Ogmundson on Spotify

William Ogmundson's Signature Track

William Ogmundson on Social Media

William Ogmundson's Website

Kirsten Agresta Copely Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Neoclassical Features, Neoclassical Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , |

Kirsten Agresta Copely
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
New Age, Ambient, Neoclassical

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
KIRSTEN AGRESTA COPELY is a harpist, composer, and arranger that has made music in four continents for heads of state, in blockbuster movie soundtracks, alongside Billboard 100 artists, on late night television, with the most recognized symphony orchestras in the world. Her first album as composer, Around the Sun, will be released in January 2020. Steeped in rigorous classical training, Copely’s performance career began at an early age: by fourteen, she performed a full solo tour of the British Isles, and continued to gain attention in the classical world by winning Bronze Medal in the 1st USA International Harp Competition, debuting as concerto soloist at Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center soon after. While she maintains a heavy classical schedule—she serves as Principal Harpist with the Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra at Lincoln Center —Copely has also garnered a reputation as the pop industry’s go-to harpist, culminating with a performance alongside Beyoncé at the second official White House State Dinner for President Barack Obama. Other live engagements include appearances on Saturday Night Live, Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon and the MET Gala; in studio, she has recorded with greats like Lionel Richie and has performed in numerous video game, television, and movie soundtracks.

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
Music has been an integral part of my life since I was a child; I began playing the harp when I was five years old. I have always made my living as a musician which is something I'm very proud of.

Nagamag:
How did you get started playing with so many iconic pop artists?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
I was hand picked to play with Kanye West at Live 8 which led to many more performances with Jay Z, John Legend, Enya, Evanescence and more. Ultimately the performances grew increasingly illustrious, and culminated in a performance with Beyoncé at the second official White House State Dinner for President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, and Mexican President Felipe Calderón - a true "gig of life."

Nagamag:
'Around the Sun' is billed as an album of new age and ambient music. What was your inspiration for wanting to write and record music in this genre?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
A lot of the compositions I was writing were naturally minimalistic in style and led easily into being more defined by ambient soundscapes. It was a perfect opportunity to collaborate with my husband, Marc, who has lots of experience playing ambient guitar on TV/film soundtracks. We both love the work of Brian Eno and Harold Budd (pioneers of the ambient genre) so he creatively designed the supporting complimentary layers. There isn’t a single keyboard effect on the album; just solo harp recorded in a classical style with sonic treatments.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
Queen "Hammer to Fall"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Kirsten Agresta Copely:
Brian Eno & Harold Budd "Late October"

Discover & Listen to Kirsten Agresta Copely

Kirsten Agresta Copely on Spotify

Kirsten Agresta Copely's Signature Track

Kirsten Agresta Copely on Social Media

Kirsten Agresta Copely's Website

Gregory Paul Mineeff Interview on Nagamag.com

Categories: Features, Interviews, Neoclassical Features, Neoclassical Interviews, The Latest|Tags: , , , , , , , , , , |

Gregory Paul Mineeff
Interview

Nagamag:
What are the genres that describe better your music style?

Gregory Paul Mineeff:
Ambient, Modern-classical, Electronic, Downtempo, Chillout, analog textures, analog and acoustic instruments, alternative.

Nagamag:
Few words about your musical background and career?

Gregory Paul Mineeff:
I am a composer, multi-instrumentalist from Wollongong, Australia. I began my life as a musician beginning with piano but stopped to pursue the guitar and rock music. As a teenager I was obsessed with the electric guitar, fixated on the music of Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Foo Fighters, ACDC and Pink Floyd. Jimi Hendrix's music and the way he constructed melodies and harmonies, as well as his improvising, has always fascinated me. Along the way I became interested in music for film and classical music and began collecting and playing as many acoustic instruments as I could. Piano became a fixture in my life and I began composing simple minimal piano pieces, collecting many over the years. No matter what instrument it is, my fascination with music is always around the act of creating something new, composing and constructing a new piece of wonder. I composed my album GRIND in response to the beautiful natural surroundings of my home in Wollongong and since releasing this album have enjoyed collaborating with many artists around the world. My second full length album After Today was released in January and I am looking forward to seeing how it goes about finding its place in the world.

Nagamag:
Do you remember your first connection of love to music that was the right impact to be a music artist now?

Gregory Paul Mineeff:
I have always loved music and it has always been something that just felt right to me. From the first time experiencing music from my grandmother's organ to the music classroom at school I knew it was for me. I was always into music of the 60's, 70's, 80's and early 90's with it playing constantly in my home whether it be Pink Floyd or Dire Straits. The music that really connected with me at that time was Nirvana. I loved the rawness of the music, the edginess to it, the minimalistic and simple nature of each song really resonated with me. The minimal aesthetic of those compositions influences me to this day. Music was the way I identified my place in the world as a teenager and the place I sought refuge. I made many cassette tape recordings of instrumental guitar pieces and experiments throughout this time. Following from this I loved the improvisation style of Jimi Hendrix, particularly pieces like Little Wing. His edginess and always being on the edge makes his style particularly appealing. I love the work of Nick Cave, the simplicity of the compositions and the rawness are always an inspiration. As time went on I became interested in music for film, particularly the work of Danny Elfman, and I absolutely adore Neil Young's score for the Jim Jarmusch film Dead man. I was always seeking out rawness in music and artists I felt were risking a little, pushing boundaries, which led me to the work of Bjork. Her music is always a beautiful departure from the ordinary. It also connected me to the world of electronic music and the infinite possibilities available for modern composers and musicians. Another artist I respect enormously is Radiohead and the solo work of Thom Yorke. I am endlessly fascinated by their boundless creativeness and the unique music and place they have created. Boards of Canada and the world they have created for themselves to exist is an endless source of inspiration as are the minimal piano compositions of Philip Glass. All of these artists have influenced my current music in various ways. The artist who has perhaps inspired me the most though, is Yann Tiersen. I adore his solo piano work and everything he has done, the album Skyline being my favourite with the track The Gutter a particular favourite. Ultimately, my love of music is in the act of creation and the immediacy of this construction. I absolutely love and am influenced by literature, art and music and my response to this and my own creation of art is an integral part of the process.

Nagamag:
What Are you working on at the moment (Jan. 2020)?

Gregory Paul Mineeff:
I am fascinated by vintage analog instruments, analog synthesisers, electric pianos, tape effects and acoustic pianos. and I am working on composing more solo piano pieces. My goal is to be as simple as can be while conveying a sense of melody. I am also working on performing my new album After Today live with film projection and look forward to developing this project. I always look forward to more collaborative projects too.

Nagamag:
Most artists have a favorite song from a different music genre than the one they are producing music for... Which is yours?

Gregory Paul Mineeff:
Foo Fighters "Exhausted"

Nagamag:
Of Course Nagamag would love to listen also which track from a similar artist you admire?

Gregory Paul Mineeff:
Yann Tiersen "Penn ar Lann"

Discover & Listen to Gregory Paul Mineeff

Gregory Paul Mineeff on Spotify

Gregory Paul Mineeff's Signature Track

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Gregory Paul Mineeff's Website

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