“Elegy” opens with immediacy, drawing listeners into a grand, cinematic scenery, pulling heartstrings, intertwined with drastic feelings. Like the giant in the cover art. The melodies and soundscapes in “Elegy” evokes an almost palpable experience. But the giant also has a sensitive inner side that the artwork can’t present. There’s loneliness and agony in its atmospheric expression. Isolation, sadness, and a sense of confusion even.

Michael Bakrncev weaves an imaginary world with his composition. It immerses you immediately with the tips of your nerve stretched out to taste and connect emotionally. The “giant” in the music continues to tell you its story, through melodies and shifting soundscapes. Not a word is shed, but it’s clear that “Elegy” is a piece of music that has a soul.

The song is alive. It brings to you its whole world. The intellectual and the imaginative, the emotional and spiritual. Listening to “Elegy” is like a soul-to-soul conversation with the music. You never felt so honest and intimate with another human being, but in “Elegy,” you find this profound connection and stirringly epic experience with the music itself. Its melancholia, its struggle, and its moodiness are so naked in your ears. You hear it speaks and you feel what it feels.

Musical notes are no longer on your mind. Only stories and expression. “Elegy” is an expressive masterpiece with heart where the haunting imagery and a wonderful world lives.

Read our interview with the mastermind and learn more about the conception of this piece.

Punk Head: I love how "Elegy" takes listeners on an immersive and evocative sonic experience. What was the creative process like?

Michael Bakrncev: Thank you for your kind words about my "Elegy". I began writing the piece during Winter in 2019, however I then sidelined the piece to work on more pressing matters. I knew that I had a strong piece that would be captivating and emotionally as well as compositionally intelligent, so I saved it for another day.

It wasn't until a great sadness overwhelmed me during our multiple lockdowns that I decided to complete the piece.

PH: What motivates you as an artist?

Bakrncev: As an artist, I find motivation in many different aspects of life. One of the primary sources of motivation is the desire to connect with people on a deep and emotional level. Music has a unique power to transcend boundaries and touch the hearts of individuals from various backgrounds. The thought of creating something that resonates with someone, that can uplift, inspire, or provide solace, is incredibly motivating.
Additionally, the creative process itself is a significant driving force. The exploration of new ideas, pushing boundaries, and continuously evolving as an artist fuels my passion. The ability to express myself, share my experiences, and communicate through music is a deeply fulfilling and motivating aspect of being an artist.

PH: What has been one of the highlights of your music career so far?

Bakrncev: One of the highlights of my career was working with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra for my piece 'Hustle' - It was an incredible opportunity to share my music with a large and enthusiastic audience, and the energy and connection I felt by the musicians on stage was truly unforgettable. The experience not only validated the hard work and dedication I've put into my craft but also provided a sense of accomplishment and affirmation as an artist.

PH: Who are your biggest influences?

Bakrncev: I draw inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, each contributing to shaping my unique sound. Some of my biggest influences include artists from various genres such as classical composers like Bach, Tchaikovsky, Stravinsky, Ravel, Debussy and Takemitsu, folk pioneers like Ferus Mustafov, Tale Ognenovski, Esma Redzepova and contemporary artists like Radiohead, Björk, Cat Empire & Powderfinger. I also find inspiration from diverse cultural music traditions, world fusion artists, and electronic music producers. These influences have all played a part in shaping my musical style and approach.

PH: What is the one thing that you’d like your fans to know about you?

Bakrncev: One thing I'd like my fans to know about me is that my music is deeply personal and reflects my emotions, experiences, and perspectives. Each work is a piece of my heart and soul that I share with the world. I hope that through my music, listeners can find solace, inspiration, or a sense of connection. I'm grateful for their support and the opportunity to create something meaningful together.