Interview – Hypnotic Bolt

New Album Release: Vista Kicks

Originating from California, Vista Kicks surprised listeners when they released their third full length album, Chateau Mae Mae on April 10th.

Comprised of Derek Thomas (lead vocals), Sam Plecker (guitar), Trevor Sutton (bass), and Nolan Le Vine (drums), Vista Kicks had the opportunity to write alongside singer-songwriter Audra Mae.

Oklahoma native, Audra Mae has made a name for herself in the world of music. By collaborating with and writing songs beside various musicians, Mae is a very well respected artist.

Spending their summer months writing in Music City (Nashville, TN), the members of Vista Kicks and Mae collaborated to produce Chateau Mae Mae. Combining Mae’s soulful folk sound with Vista Kicks’ classic rock sound, this album caters to all music lovers.

We had the opportunity to ask the members of Vista Kicks and lead singer, Derek Thomas some of our most pressing questions about the release of Chateau Mae Mae.

Open up your windows, allow the sunlight in, close your eyes, and let Chateau Mae Mae transport you to a different time.

How is this album different from anything you have released?

VK: On all of our other releases, we’ve written as a unit- just the four of us. The main difference about Chateau Mae Mae is that we co-wrote every song on the record between ourselves, Audra Mae, and different Nashville writers Natalie Hemby, Madi Diaz, Kerr Harrison, Benjy Davis, and David Borne.

What were some of your main inspirations for this release?

VK: Really, the experience of being in Nashville. Audra flew us out, housed us, and invited people over to write songs breakfast, lunch, and dinner for two weeks straight!

I guess something about lowering our walls and allowing outside people into our headspace…that was the inspiration for this release. A group effort that is something way different and way more than the 4 of us (or 5, including Audra) could have created alone.

How did you meet Audra Mae and decide to collaborate with her?

Thomas: We knew Audra from Los Angeles. She lived nearby and we’d hung out with her multiple times before she moved to Nashville.

A few tours ago, we were passing through Nashville and she came to the show, we invited her to come sing with us because Sam had been sick and he couldn’t sing for a few days. She had to postpone her flight plans and instead of departing from Nashville, she agreed to come with us to Memphis and leave from there.

While listening to songs and talking about life, I suggested it would be cool to someday make a record together. We both agreed and thought the other wasn’t serious, so we let months go by before reaching out again.

In May, I called Audra and said, “Are we doing this thing or what?” She laughed and said, “Hell yes we are.” She took it from there. Sam and I hopped on a plane and stayed with her for two weeks. No plan, no songs written, no real idea of anything. “I guess we’ll see what happens.” I said to Sam on the plane.

What was the process of writing this album and working together with Audra Mae?

Thomas: Every day at Audra’s house was packed with writing songs, cooking food, going out to bars, staying up till the sun came up, and lots of laughter.

We took any and every opportunity to make a song out of this and that. It was an inspiring time. It felt like a magical two weeks. Like a dream come true, writing with Audra and all of her friends who are now also our friends, the experience was a gift.

We didn’t think we were making a record, I think in the beginning we thought it would just be fun to make a song or two. By the end of two weeks, we had written over twenty songs.

What was your experience like writing these songs in Nashville?

VK: It was intense! Writing on the level we did… I think over those two weeks in Nashville, we wrote 20-25+ songs. But like we said, we were writing about 3 a day, one for breakfast, lunch and dinner. That’s how that city works though… they’re songwriting machines out there. In Vista Kicks, we consider ourselves songwriters over singers, musicians, whatever… so you could imagine how inspiring it was for us to be there.

Do you feel that your sound has changed in any way because of this collaboration?

VK: Totally. I really feel a sense of maturity and growth when I listen to Chateau Mae Mae. There’s more confidence in the vocals and everyone’s playing. I think writing an album with other people challenged us in new ways but it was also reassuring and exciting to be working with such great writers.

Since not a lot of listeners knew that you were releasing new music, what made you decide to keep it a secret until the release?

VK: There was a lot of question on how we were going to release the album. I’m not sure we kept it a very good secret because we played “While we still have the time” on tour the last year or so and had Audra open a show at The El Rey singing tunes from the record haha.. Ultimately, we decided it was such a special piece of music that it just deserved to be out and listened to. This year we signed on with some new publishing and wanted to release it with them and that just happened to fall during this whole covid-19 pandemic.

What do you want your listeners to know about this release and what it means to you?

VK: Take the record as you want: we think the record is great and we’re all proud of it! We think we’ve raised our own personal bar of songwriting, recording, production etc… We took a lot of side steps from our normal tendencies… but that’s what it’s all about! Change and growth. We started recording again this last February for the next VK album — It’s fun to see how the the Nashville record has clawed into us. We’ve definitely learned some new tricks that we’re going to take along the way…

FINAL THOUGHTS

Vista Kicks is one of the very first bands that we ever wrote about on this blog, so this album was a very special and long awaited one for us and for many dedicated VK fans. Chateau Mae Mae is different from previous albums that they have released, but is a work of art nonetheless.

This album offers a perfect blend of heartfelt ballads and textured sounds. It’s a softer album from the “Marceline” band, but the vocals from both Vista Kicks and Audra Mae are flawless and passionate. Audra Mae’s addition to the album is a game changer, and brings an effortless tone to the table.

You can stream Chateau Mae Mae on all music platforms. You can also follow Vista Kicks and Audra Mae on Instagram for updates and other content.

We hope you’re all healthy and safe. Don’t forget to wash your hands and support your local bands!

New Album Release: Paper Daisies

Originating from Clemson, South Carolina, Tayler Bucich of Paper Daisies released his first album In and out the Window on March 30th. We had the opportunity to ask Bucich questions about his new project and this album.

What inspired you to move to this stage of your music career?

I got into music and recording when I was 20 because it gave all of my emotions a very clear therapeutic outlet. Nothing makes me happier than writing and recording, so I guess that would be the inspiration for all of this. Chasing happiness.

With this being your first release under Paper Daisies, what is the significance of this album?

It’s the start of something fresh and new. With purpose. I have a big plan for how my Paper Daisies albums will feed off of each other.

Can you tell us a little bit about your songwriting process for this album? Where did you find inspiration to write these songs?

The songwriting process for In and out the Window was extremely personal. I filled an old black notebook front and back with thoughts, questions, statements, poems, conceptual ideas. I’ve been at odds with myself recently. The last year has really stressed me out and made me feel purposeless. But no matter what I always have music. So I decided to make this project about just that. Having a therapeutic outlet to go to.

A little passage from that notebook says: “These eyes are windows. Press play and listen to my soul. Go in and out the window.” In and out the Window is also a reference to a children’s book that teaches kids how to play music. I liked that because I feel like a child in the world of music.

Major musical influences for In and out the Window?

I found a lot of inspiration from the existentialism that Loving spews out in every song. I loved the raw recordings and genuine lyrics of Elliot Smith. I was extremely inspired by the late 60s sunshine pop movement. And of course, forever and always, Brian Wilson.

How is this album different from anything else you’ve released?

I think there is a conscious effort to present these songs with more concrete structure. I had access to an actual drum kit for the first time in my life. So really, long story short, I had the ability to do whatever I wanted when I wanted. I could truly create with no boundaries for the first time.

How would you describe your music to someone who has never listened to you before?

Hahaaa! I have a lot of practice doing this. I usually say something like “I hunker down in my bedroom and I write songs about being alive, the ups and downs.” And then I usually give a little disclaimer “Could be kinda weird! I don’t know what you normally listen to!” If they need a genre I usually say “Experimental bedroom pop” which sounds like a lot of fun things.

What message do you want to convey to our readers about this album?

I’m always at odds with wanting to tell what my albums are about…but if I had to say something real short and sweet I’d say: You never know what someone is going through, or who they might end up growing into. People have an incredible capacity to change, or to be shaped by their surroundings, both in a positive and negative way. Be kinder. Smile more. The world is like a mirror, you’ll feel it come right back to you. I promise!

Final Thoughts

Bucich released this album when the world needed it the most. During a time of uncertainty and confusion, the songs on In and out the Window offer a sense of calmness and security about where we are and where we can go from there. It’s like a big hug from someone you love and you know that they’ll never let go. This album is reminiscent of warm drinks, dried flowers, and baked goods. A cozy feeling, ya know. Like everything is going to be alright.

We’ll link the album on Spotify below and make sure to follow @daisiespaper on Instagram for any future updates! Thank you again Tayler!

Stay groovy!

Hypnotic Hangout: Briston Maroney

‘Hangin Round’ at taco bell

It was 1AM in Asheville, North Carolina and a cool breeze swept through the Taco Bell parking lot. The purple fluorescent lights lit up the sidewalk. The only noise was the passing of cars, and Briston Maroney clearing his throat as he sat down next to us on the curb. After playing a packed show at the Mothlight, we were able to sit down with the Knoxville native to get a little more insight on Maroney and his music.

We briefly discussed his tattoos and their stories before jumping into our real questions. Pointing to his black inked outline of Texas, he laughed, “This one is probably my favorite, by far”.

Of course, we needed to know where his passion for music is rooted, and what inspires him to write such personal verses. He adjusted his navy blue hat and scooted a little closer to us, “My grandpa turned me onto a lot of country music when I was younger like Waylon Jennings and Townes Van Zandt,” he laughed before saying, ” I was and still am into that kind of folkier country music. I’ve always wanted to be a cowboy. I have the tattoo and the boots so maybe by 25 I’ll either become a cowboy or just hang up the hat”.

When you listen to the “Caroline” singer, you almost feel as if he opened up your journal or crept into your thoughts and just wrote songs about your worst break-up or deepest fears. We asked,

“So, we want to know about the song writing process but more specifically the emotions that are going into every line. Do you have to be in love to write a song about being in love? Do you have to be going through something difficult in order to write on that experience? Is it more based on feelings or more expeirence based?”

He nodded his head silently, looking at the gravel beneath our feet. “I feel like songs that last and that are genuine are true feelings. I think you can write a love song about being in love in the moment, but I believe you have to have felt those feelings and be wanting to feel those feelings. For me, it’s hard to not make it personal. There are amazing artist who have the ability to just pull words that make sense without having to feel all of that [feelings] in the moment. I just can’t.”

‘SMALL TALK’

Maroney recently went on a UK tour with the Wallows, we were curious to know how this might have shifted his career as a whole, “How do you feel this affected your career and was it a big stepping stone for you?” Maroney responded with “Short term and long term it changed a lot of things for us. It was really important for us as people.” Maroney revealed that he feels closer to his band mates because of these experiences on the road.

Indiana

Maroney released his third album, Indiana on May 17th, 2019. So of course we had to ask, “What does Indiana mean to you compared to the other albums you’ve released?” Maroney went on to explain It was the first one they signed with Atlantic Recording Co.

“It was four songs that I had written in a period of time when I was living with my mom in Florida. Those songs were about living there with her and moving back to Nashville. It was the end of an era and it was an awesome experience to make.” He continued with “I feel like it was the first step towards speaking for what I want to stand for.”

Desert island bands

After much consideration, Maroney carefully chose these three musicians to be stranded on a deserted island with:

Neil Young
Jimi Hendrix
Graham Nash

A special message from briston

Going into this interview we knew that Maroney is an enlightened person and we wanted to convey any messages that he wanted to give to our readers. “I want people to feel relieved when they listen to this music to know that someone else is feeling the way that they feel. Life is complicated and people experience really intense things. I want it to be a symbol of sharing intense experiences {his music}.”

“And finally what do you want your listeners to know about anything?” Briston smiled and replied “My phone number.” We both laughed thinking he was joking. But then he went on to say “865-291-7761, you can text me if you want. Life is pretty short and I’m trying to put my feelings to the side for a little bit, and be nice to everyone.” He started laughing and said genuinely ” I want them to know my effing phone number.”

What’s next?

Briston Maroney is currently on his first head-lining tour in Europe and America and has recently released a new single “Chattanooga” which you can find on all music streaming platforms.

A Hypnotic Hangout: Illiterate Light

Georgia Theatre 5/9– The Illiterate Light duo ended their set with “Growin’ Down” and walked off the stage while the crowd cheered. Their initial thoughts are filled with excitement and positivity about their performance. We got to sit down and talk with Jake (drums, vocals) and Jeff (guitar, vocals) in Athens while they were touring with Shakey Graves.

Mission Accomplished

Illiterate Light is a rock duo from Virginia and their music has been spread far and wide since we last saw them in December. From recently playing Shaky Knees, to upcoming festivals like Lollapalooza and Bonnaroo, Illiterate Light has grown immensely.

After the show, Jeff described to us that “It’s an interesting feeling to play to hundreds of people who have no idea who we are. You kind of have to win the crowd over a little bit.” They make it their mission to impress the crowd with their set. And we believe that they did just that. After seeing them open for Post Animal a couple months ago, we fell in love with their sound and that encouraged us to learn more about them and download their music. At the end of their set on this night in Athens, the crowd was clapping and in awe of the musical ability that these two people possess.

Illiterate Light makes an effort to hang out by their merch table and talk to people after their set. They relayed to us that they really enjoy meeting new people and spreading their music to others. So, if you ever want to chat with these guys, you know where to find them!

Inspirations

Many different artists, have influenced Illiterate Light’s music. Jeff described that he is most inspired by artists like Flaming Lips, Led Zeppelin, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Foo Fighters. Jake explained that he has been listening to a lot of St. Vincent, SZA, Kendrick Lamar, and Big Thief recently. Jeff described that “Artists like Neil Young, Fleet Foxes, My Morning Jacket, and Wilco were my go-to. I really wanted to craft my musical vision based off of these artists.”

Jake told us that he likes to mix aspects of various performers in order to find something that fits with the music that Illiterate Light creates. “I have a really strong love for very weird performers. We like to have the energy for sure and have fun.”

“It sets us apart”

If you’ve ever seen this band live, you have probably seen the beloved floral crop top that Jake wears. One thing that stood out to us when we first saw them, was that half-way during the show, Jake took off his shirt and underneath that shirt, he wore a pink floral top. On this night, we were eagerly waiting to see if the tradition remained and when he showed it off, we were excited to get the chance to ask about the origin of the ritual.

“While touring in another band, while living in Virginia, we used to tour by bike. I wanted to keep the sun off my back while remaining cool. I stopped into a thrift store and was sorting through the racks when I found it. At first, I started wearing it as a joke but eventually it started feeling natural.”

Shaky Knees: “It was killer”

After recently playing Shaky Knees, Jeff relayed to us that “It felt weird performing on the main stage, the stage where Tame Impala played and then having people come up to us and congratulate us on our performance.” There are a lot of new faces at their shows and the continuous growth of the band has brought them many opportunities and experiences. “Some days we truly don’t know what to do with it, but I think that’s a good thing. It means the timing is right for our band.”

“Have you grown up yet? Does the war make sense?”

The songwriting process is always a very important one. Illiterate Light described for us where they get their inspiration for writing. They try to write songs that are moving between their emotional and relational lives. “Also our observations of our culture and of the world at large. Therefore, we don’t stray away from writing about politics and war. We want to be a part of the conversation.” With the world that we live in today, it’s important that there are artists in the industry discussing these topics.

The Show

Before the interview, we had the opportunity to take pictures of the band while singing and dancing to their songs. They opened with their hit “Nuthin’s Fair” and had the whole crowd bobbing their heads and moving to the music. They played through songs off of their EP, Sweet Beast and played an outstanding cover of “Vampire Blues” by Neil Young. You could tell that the crowd was surprised that two people could create the sounds that they were creating. By the end of their set, you could tell that the audience was impressed and eager to listen to more of their stuff!

What’s next for illiterate light?

The band recently signed with Atlantic Records and is planning to release an album in October! They have an EP on Spotify, Sweet Beast, which you should definitely check out! They actually just released a new single a couple days ago called “Carolina Lorelei.” Illiterate Light (@illiteratelight) is constantly creating new music and they will be going on multiple tours throughout the rest of the year. If they come around to your town, you should treat yourself and go! Seeing them perform live is a great time!

A Hypnotic Hangout: Mommy’s Little Boy

‘Wasting All of My Time’ on Valentine’s Day

February 14 is the day of love, and it also happened to be the day that Mommy’s Little Boy released his first full-length album. Jake Derting, from Denton, Texas sat down with us to discuss his album Wasting All of My Time.

In 2018, he released his first self-titled EP, Mommy’s Little Boy. This EP was his way of introducing his music to the world. His most popular song “She Cries”, just recently hit 2000 streams on Spotify, so check that out if you haven’t already.

The Sound of Mommy’s Little Boy

The “She Cries” singer gets a lot of his musical inspiration from artists like Roy Orbison, Current Joys, Lala Lala, Surf Curse and a local Denton friend, Ian Salazar. Throughout a lot of the songwriting process, Jake listened to these artists and gained a new perspective on what sound he wanted to create.

Jake described that he gets his inspiration for his music from observing people in his life and putting it in his perspective. He said that “The way I write is that I perceive things and I watch people’s lives and then I can write about it from my perspective”. He went on to talk about how he had lived with some friends from college this past semester, and how all of them were individually going through stuff. He took it as an opportunity to put himself in their shoes and write about those experiences.

In his song “Wasting Time”, Jake incorporated an acoustic guitar with multiple pedals and pitch shifter to get different sounds from the same instruments. He’s been passionate about music from a young age and has the ability to play many instruments.

When we asked about how he would define his genre of music, Jake said, “I don’t think that I could really put into one genre.” He described his music as a mixture of Dream Pop, Low-Fi, Bedroom Pop, and Punk. With this new album, he has been able to shape his sound into his own and now when you listen to his music, you know it’s a Mommy’s Little Boy song.

“Things Are Great” and so is “Oatmeal”

Two of the most influential songs on Wasting All of My Time are “Oatmeal” and “Things Are Great”. Jake relayed to us that after working for hours recording different parts of what was originally a nameless song, he was craving oatmeal and the name of that song was born. We all shared a laugh about our mutual love for oatmeal. He continued to say that he poured out all of his “angst” into this song and it easily became one of his favorites off of the album.

He saw “Things Are Great” as a song that he could go somewhere with. He used this particular song to shape not only his sound but his message.

A Wake-Up Call

When we asked about why he titled the album Wasting All of My Time which was pulled from his song “Wasting Time”, he described that he had an awakening and decided to settle down. He went on to say that his first record was just for fun, and nothing too serious. With this new album, he discovered that this was a true passion of his and he dedicated more time and effort into it.

A Message from Mommy’s Little Boy

Jake is super proud of this album and he wants his listeners to know that you shouldn’t waste your time doing things that you aren’t passionate about. He hopes for people to listen to his music and become inspired to not give up on their goals and aspirations.

He laughed and sat back in his chair. He stated, “Actually I have been filming a music video for Things Are Great and it should be out in a couple weeks!”

Keep an eye out for any new projects and releases from Mommy’s Little Boy. Check out his music on all music platforms! We want to thank Jake for taking the time to have this interview with us, go check him out!!