darkmaterial On the Making Of “Lucky Charm”
What was the creative process like for this particular "Lucky Charm?"
The song was written by combining the idea of a large breakdown with repetitive droning sections and the idea of writing a chorus section without lyrics.
The lyrics for the song are written for the perspective of a 'Lucky Charm' to its owner.
I was looking to make something dark but hopeful which the band brought to life in this song.
What did you enjoy most about making "Lucky Charm?"
Lucky Charm was actually the first song we recorded together professionally as a band. The whole experience was amazing. Working with Jack at the Pyramid Studies was an absolute pleasure and discovering the things that we could do in track-by-track recording was fantastic.
How do you feel "Lucky Charm" represents your artistic identity?
The song captures the cosmic horror theme of the band combined with the relatable every day of having a lucky object. Musically it shows the unique dark sound we are building on as a band combining heavy metal, alt-rock, and post-rock elements together. We are particularly pleased with the extended breakdown section of this track and the song is great fun for the whole band to play live!
Where do you find inspiration for your songs or musical ideas?
I find inspiration in the everyday. I have folders of lyric ideas on my phone that I am adding to all the time from the things that I experience in the world around me.
Musically, we're drawing from a wide variety of inspirations. Some of the strongest are in the guitar-driven heavy metal power of Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden, as well as from atmospheric post-rock. We also have a big influence from riff-rock and alt-rock. Bands like Muse and BMTH are big influences on the sound.
Lyrically I always look to Simon and Garfunkel, Alex Turner, and Dio as major influences. They all have a particular power in bringing the everyday to life which is something that I try to capture in my lyrics as well.
Can you share a valuable lesson or piece of advice that you have learned along your musical journey?
There are two:
Practice, practice, practice
Always be promoting