Tell us a few things about your new song “Synth Pop Idol”. What is the story behind it?
‘Synth Pop Idol’ is a song about identity, “don’t wanna be a synth pop idol, don’t wanna have the hips or smile” deals directly with the pressures I face as the front-person of the band to be skinny, bubbly, consumable. This song is a statement. I am an imperfect narrator, a jester, a musician, an artist, but in no way an idol. It is one of 2 singles being released in October that felt like they needed to come out before we dug in and started serious work on the debut album.
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
“Peace offer get smarter, I’m a highwayman. Case closer blind robber taking everything I can”
Favourite album of the past year?
Fishmonger by underscores
Your also have lovely grooves. Tell us a song with a groove you wish you had composed yourself.
“Liquor Store” by Remi Wolf
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
Tell us a few things about your new song “Gastown Man”. What is the main idea behind it?
“Gastown Man”, inspired by My and Jon’s time spent in Vancouver. Initially, the subject of the song was sparked by a confrontation with a man on the street asking for cigarettes; he was walking a menacing looking pitbull with a spiked silver collar, and was drinking a beer at 9:30 or so in the morning. It was raining and he wore a silver Addidas tracksuit and wore the hood over his head. The interaction later became the idea for a more embellished and dramatised depiction of that character- the “Gastown Man”; one who struts along the sidewalk with a noticeable gait of swagger and confidence, wearing a cheap fur coat and smoking an even cheaper cigar hanging from dime-silver grilled teeth and a walking cane; he’s the Gastown Man.
What first got you into music?
Short answer… all of our parents. Our mums and dads have influenced us greatly with their variety of musical tastes. We owe everything to them for creating interest in learning music from such a young age.
What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?
If you asked us this question a year ago, we would’ve definitely said performing live. We love playing high energy shows and putting smiles on people’s faces. We love seeing people dance at our gigs.
However, since our last recording project, we feel that we now have a better understanding of getting the sound we want in the studio. Our most recent time in the studio was definitely one that we enjoyed a lot, and we’re really excited to get back in there with our new project.
You could say we still prefer playing live, but we still really enjoy working on our music in the studio.
What would you change in the music industry?
I think we would like to see a change in how much artist get paid for their music streams. The way the industry is changing means that most musicians are selling less records and being streamed more on platforms. We’d like to see them be fairly compensated for the work they put into.
When the owner of Spotify is valued at more than Sir Paul McCartney you know something isn’t right.
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
I suppose in a free and honest state of mind? Haha, this is a difficult question to answer because we think our music means different things to different people.
We had conversations with fans who enjoy listening to our music whilst painting, exercising, drinking, road tripping, having sex etc…
What is the best concert you have ever been to?
Haha, this answer will change every time you ask us we’ve been very blessed to have seen lots of talented musicians
Tell us a few things about “Trust Me”. What is the main idea behind it?
Life brings peaks and troughs. As we see people come in and out of our lives, it can feel quite uncomfortable and isolating. Venturing into music I was going through a tough time both during the lockdown and whilst entering a new industry. It’s in these moments you feel you’re giving people all you’ve got but the exchange of frequencies and energies is not the same. I took the time to do some self-reflection and learning to grow in my own power. Ironically, this slow rebirth of myself and my music saw a reconnection with those who don’t have the time or right intentions previously. So this song is a message to anyone who is in this situation. Done with playing nice and ready to fly up to their own planet.
Tell us a few things about your creative process.
When I started this music project, this song came around track 4/So I’d be hopping in and out of sessions and finally getting used to recording music. For “Trust Me”, I was really proud of the chorus harmonies. It was a nice moment while recording. The ideas and execution stage in the booth was a lot of fun! And when I received the vocal track on its own it was one of the first times I listen back and felt proud of a session I did without being self-critical.
For which lyric you are most proud of?
“If something I’m doing, comes in your view and- remember nothing will stand in my way”. I remember the lyrics at the end felt like a bunch of convoluted words flowing out of my mouth and they genuinely were haha. But what it sounds like, to me, was a mantra and a reminder to not let anyone or anything stand in my way. I won’t and nothing will.
Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?
It’s a range of artists, to be honest, and it changes constantly. MJ to Frank Ocean. Eurythmics to Daft Punk. But RnB music is something I bring up all the time, because of the emotive style of singing, the fun and creative vocal ideas and the fresh style of the 90s. It was the pop music of my era growing up. But I also have been inspired by modern music blending of sounds as seen like talents like Janelle Monae. It would be a dream to do a project emulating the genre mix she has explored.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
If I’m honest it’s the mental challenges. You are constantly wrapped in the idea of not thinking you’re good enough. Being nervous at every release. Finding networking is a challenge when you feel you’re on a back foot. Managing music (and everything that comes with it like marketing, videos, promotions) and your daily life. It can all feel exhausting BUT when you take healthy breaks, put yourself as a priority and keep enjoying the music is can feel so magical.
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
All my songs, unintentionally incorporate the idea of change in some form. So when you feel ready to leave the past behind and embrace a new YOU, put the song on, forget the haters, and get ready to fly up to your planet where you’re living out your dreams and not where the dreams stay as fantasy.
What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?
During my school years, I went from super quiet to class clown, and I’m not sure what I should share now hahaha. Ironically I got the most in trouble at school when I really stood up for myself. I remember getting picked on at school and there was one day I just enough. So I stood up for myself but ended up getting in trouble. Although being older, I understood that there are better ways to deal with situations, I was proud that at that moment I didn’t let them get the best of me
Tell us a few things about your new song “Lend Myself”. What is the story behind it?
Lend Myself started off as my attempt to write a Motown song. I really wanted to make a groove with a bounce to it like a Marvin Gaye or The Supremes tune. However, once we started working on the guitar part it started to become its own thing. Lend Myself still retains a lot of those early soul influences especially in the percussion and backing vocals. Lend Myself is about being tied to the past and not being able to move forward.
How would you describe your musical progress?
Slow and steady wins the race! Hoping for 2022 to be a big year for Sun Affair!
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
From Lend Myself it would be “I take my tears to the door and the thought of you, it lingers like perfume on my pillow”
Favourite album of the past year?
‘Shore’ by Fleet Foxes
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
Finding the confidence to put out my own music. I was mainly a classical composer before Sun Affair and was holding back on releasing my own pop stuff. It’s taken some time but I’m getting there!
What advice would you give to your younger self?
“Put out those songs you’ve been sitting on asap!”
Tell us a few things about your new song SHINJI. What is the story behind it?
For starters the song is about myself and how I felt around 2017/2019. I was in a pretty bad space and looking back I’m so glad I just made it out to even have the blessing of being able to write a song about reflection. It was a dark time, I was still doing music but my mindset was still pretty bad and I was in the process of changing myself for good.
How would you describe your musical progress over the years?
Over the years I can say its gotten easier for me to create and easier to say what I really wanna say mostly because I’ve let go of a lot of things that would hinder most from the process of creation. I know I have gotten better but now I can do it even on a bad day where I wouldn’t feel the “urge”.
What first got you into music?
The idea of making a broken stereo at my house work by creating my own music. That got me into wanting to do it. Over time I discovered different genres and figured “hey I can do this.” and fell in love with telling my story.
Do you think there is a true underground hip hop sound today?
I believe so, I also believe all that new talent deserves to be recognized.
What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?
To me its self expression. Hiphop is just one way of doing so since all music gives you that ability. It’s also about what kind of uniqueness can you bring to the table instead of trend hopping for popularity. Its an overall embodiment of being yourself to the fullest and not caring about what others think and not being afraid to stand out.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Just continue to be you. If you don’t like it then change for the better. Stay curious its what’s going to keep you passionate.
Tell us a few things about your song “All the way for the win” What is the story behind it?
“All the way for the win” was born out of my cheesy but funky listening tastes. I’m a brass player and love anything funky with horns in. Lyrically, the song idea came from my wife looking through old Facebook photos of me and pointing out all the women who looked interested in me but I was completely oblivious. It evolved then into the idea of a guy having to realise that this woman is really into him and could be the one so don’t miss the chance!
For which lyric are you most proud of?
I’ve always been more about the music and letting that tell the story so lyrics don’t come naturally to me. I love the idea of metaphor though and so the lyric “Her cards are on the table and she won’t fold” has to be a favourite. The idea that she’s laying it all on the line for you no matter what, I think is powerful.
Your dream collaboration?
I could go on forever about the endless list of people I would love to collaborate, there are so many but if I narrow it down to my top 3 it would be Quincy Jones, Bruno Mars and Cody Fry. Quincy because the man has decades of experience. He has had his hands in some of the most iconic records of all time, it would be a humbling experience to work with him. Bruno Mars is the new Michael Jackson and his shows are so meticulously well thought out. The guy is dripping with talent! Finally, my choice of Cody Fry is a lesser known one but the man has an incredible gift for arranging and writing, particularly orchestration. You only have to listen to his cover of Eleanor Rigby to hear how exciting his work can be!
Your also have lovely Grooves. Tell us a song with a groove you wish you had composed yourself.
Again, that’s a really tough question because there are so many incredible artists out there that I’m constantly being humbled by. I think a particularly unique and enduring song though that stands out for being iconic in recent years for me would be ‘Get lucky’. Nile Rogers’ guitar groove is so funky and it just gets you wanting to move as soon as you hear it!
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Be confident and patient. Rome wasn’t built in a day and challenges will constantly present themselves. They’re not a sign to give up but to work harder.
When was the last time you danced?
I dance all the time. I have to with work but also I have two small children so we’re constantly dancing. It’s a requirement in our house!
Tell us a few things about your new song “Favorite Sin”. What is the main idea behind it?
Favorite Sin follows the perspective of “the other woman” who is involved in an affair. It subverts expectations of the cliche of a heartbroken lover and instead of focuses on the addictive power of a toxic relationship. I came up with the idea while listening to love ballads about infidelity and betrayal and wondering what would happen if I wrote about the other side of the story.
What is the main topic of your lyrics?
The main topic is a toxic relationship. The lyrics talk about how fragile this secret affair is and center on this feeling of knowing that something is bad for you but wanting it anyway. It’s open to interpretation whether the song is about lust or love. When I was writing the song, I really just wanted to invoke this feeling that the narrator is walking on a tightrope and aware that any second she might fall but staying on the same path anyway. I think that’s a very common feeling — feeling stuck and frustrated but still clinging on to someone you love.
What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?
I enjoy both, but I prefer to write music. Ever since I was a kid, I enjoyed scribbling story ideas and coming up with characters and plot lines. I love the feeling of putting emotions and vague ideas to paper and watching the melodies, lyrics, and rhythm come together. Performing live is a completely different experience. You really have to put yourself out there and focus on your role as an entertainer over your role as a storyteller. I love both for vastly different reasons, but I started off as a lyricist.
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
The biggest challenge in the music industry is believing in yourself and your music when it feels like the whole world doesn’t. There’s always going to be someone more talented, more successful. You have to remind yourself that everyone has a different path and focus on making music that you feel proud of. It’s easy to fall into self-doubt or chase trends. It’s harder to back yourself no matter what.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
I would advise my younger self to cherish the small victories and focus on doing what makes you happy. I was constantly chasing these numeric metrics of what I thought success meant, that I never stopped to appreciate how much I accomplished. At the end of the day, it’s about making music that you love. Keep doing that, and you’ll be happy.
Future plans?
I plan on releasing another single by the end of the year. Whereas Favorite Sin is more trap/electronic, my next song will be RnB. I’m really excited to explore all my different influences and work on different sounds. I am so excited to continue learning and improving. Who knows what my EP next year will sound like, I’m excited to see where my musical journey takes me!
Tell us a few things about your new song #DGGASPBXX
You know the million random questions that rush through our head throughout the day. Anyone listening?
How would you describe your musical progress over the years?
It has finally started to bloom. I found my voice and ran with it!
What first got you into music?
I think my dad. He is a total music head and we always had some sort of sound on accompanying us through all life situations. Car rides, weekends, cooking, family gatherings, cleaning the house etc.. Music is a part of me and when it is not around, it feels like something is missing.
Artists and people who have influenced and inspired you?
Sade, MJ, Prince, Daft punk, Lisa Stansfield, Jamiroquai, and the list goes on
What would be your dream performance venue?
I would love to perform at the BIMHUIS in Amsterdamn Netherlands. It is an absolute vibe.
When not writing music, how do you spend your time?
Travelling, cooking, arts & culture, and pelotoning
What would you say is your biggest vice?
I have a bit of a nail obsession. I get them done once a week.
Tell us a few things about your new song “Delighted”. What is the story behind it?
I started writing and recording Delighted back in August 2021 after an upcoming producer that I follow dropped his first sample pack. He made it available to the people in his Discord server, so I downloaded it and started playing around with the stems to make my own chord progression and song structure.
I wasn’t planning to produce or release a new song at this stage at all. My health had dipped so I’d made the decision to rest and step back from my release plans. Taking the pressure off myself was just what I needed since I was then able to catch that wave of inspiration. Delighted was totally spontaneous and helped me get back into the fun of writing and producing.
What is the main topic of your lyrics?
My lyrics tend mostly to fall into two categories: interpersonal relationships, and just talking about myself. I’m either describing something of the human experience as beings who need connection and community, or I’m making bold statements about identity. As a shy and well-behaved kid growing up, it feels really necessary to reclaim being noisy or bossy, or to verbalise how situations truly make me feel.
What do you enjoy most? Writing music or performing your music live?
I haven’t had much opportunity to perform live as a solo act, so that’s something I want to explore more in the next few years. But having said that, I think the actual making of the songs is what I’ll always enjoy the most of the two. Perhaps I’ll change my mind about that if I have some really good gigs!
What is the biggest challenge you have faced as an artist so far?
For me it’s definitely been a battle of the mind. I mean that in two senses. I’ve struggled with my mental health my whole adult life, and more recently got diagnosed as bipolar. Both the symptoms of the condition, and the medication I take to manage those symptoms, have a huge impact on my motivation and energy levels. But I think even more serious than that was fighting my own thoughts of inadequacy and the constant need for external validation. Once I got over needing someone else to give me permission or approval to make music, things really started to open up for me.
What is the best advice you’ve been given?
This too shall pass. Whatever it is you’re going through, it’s not forever, and whatever it is you’re enjoying, it will have its end. It keeps me focused on truly engaging with the present moment, and flowing with the things that are out of my control.
What is the most trouble you’ve ever gotten into?
I once almost got myself trapped on one of the sandbars on the beach where I live, so was forced to wade through ankle height water in order to get back on dry land. No matter how far along I walked, there was no dry route back to the footpath, so I had to accept the situation and get my shoes wet before it got even deeper!
Tell us a few things about your new song TOXIC/CRITICAL MASS. What is the story behind it?
The Toxic/Critical Mass music video is actually two singles on the upcoming project. They were recorded on the same day. Toxic was recorded first. Critical Mass was recorded second. The mood for both songs address the real life issues of being emotionally intelligent and finding ways to cope. Two things that I am advocate for. #MentalHealth
Which is your most personal and honest lyric?
“Pop a seal then put a pill in kuz thugs don’t cry, ni**a this is how we deal with it. I ain’t saying that its right. I’m just saying that I feel em”
Do you think there is a true underground hip hop sound today?
Not really. I feel like there is a lot of emphasis on being trendy more than anything in music these days. When I think of underground hip hop I think of the mixtape days when artist were trying to really prove that they can rap. Even when they were jacking for beats back then there was still a lot of content that had meaning. I feel like artist these days just release a lot of fillers to stay relevant instead of actually putting out something that would matter. I don’t really blame them whole heartedly though. I also blame the listeners. The artist understand that the listeners attention span is getting shorter and shorter these days.
What does hip hop symbolize in your opinion?
Hip-Hop is a lifestyle. It’s a culture. It doesn’t have to represent one group of people either. Anybody can be apart of that culture if they truly love it and understand it. I love Hip-Hop so I take a lot of offense when anyone treat it like its a joke. Like you can’t just dress up in Kilt and call yourself Scottish. You can’t pick up a bowling ball and call yourself a bowler. Have more respect for the culture than that.
In which state of mind do you imagine people might listen to your music?
In a mood to hear substance. I feel like that there are a lot of cheese and crackers for the listeners to eat. I’m giving them something to stick to their ribs, MEAT AND POTATOES. So when a people listen to me they are ready to have something to think about.
Should we expect an album in the near future?
I have older released projects and singles on all streaming outlets If anyone wants to catch up before my music is released. Also, there is a new album done already. The project is a double album titled “Gemstones and Birthrights”. The project features two producers that I have been working with, their names are Benjamin Adam (@iambenjaminadam) and Ice Cold Aka Neena Snow (@iceeeeeecold). You can follow me on IG @meano_compadre to keep up with all new content that will be released in the future.
HipHop Paranoia 