Maria Lane On the Making Of ‘35 days’
Can you share any interesting or unique stories or perspectives in '35 days?'’
In ‘35 days,’ I explore the emotional landscape of long-distance relationships, which I've personally navigated more than once. The essence of the song reflects how digital the experience feels; like you're reaching out, but only connecting through a screen. It’s a journey through the sense of separation, the feeling of a wall between two souls despite being so emotionally connected. This ep is a reflection of the trials of distance, the heartache of longing through a screen, and the perseverance of love despite the odds.
Which song do you like the best and why?
I have a special fondness for “quality time.” What stands out to me about this song is its lyrical depth, which feels akin to a heartfelt monologue. As I penned down the words, I sensed an urgency to voice all the emotions and thoughts bubbling inside. Musically, I'm particularly proud of its progression; beginning with a mellow guitar strumming which then crescendos into an intense “rock” vibe by the time we hit the bridge. The juxtaposition of the calm start and the fervent climax mirrors the emotional rollercoaster that relationships often bring.
How does '35 days' fit into your overall artistic vision?
Visually, I think it was captured really well in terms of how I imagined the cover art to be, the image when you're laying in your bed with your phone next to you and you keep looking at it to see if this person texted you back, the agonizing anxiety that can bring.
Sonically, it feels closer to the kind of music I want to be making, and each song is a journey of its own but it has an arc, which is how I want my music to feel.
Can you recall a particular moment, artist, or experience that had a significant influence on your music?
Absolutely, theater has been a profound influence on my musical journey. My passion for theater was one of the earliest I've ever had, and it greatly shaped my understanding of storytelling. I learned the significance of specificity in lyrics from being onstage and getting to be experiencing these stories. Theater is all about transporting the audience to another world, creating an environment so tangible that you forget reality for a moment. That's what I aim for in my music too. I strive to craft songs that don't just sound good but feel immersive, where every lyric paints a scene so vivid that listeners feel they're right there in the midst of it. It's that tangible, enveloping experience I fell in love with in theater, and it's what I aspire to deliver in my music.
How do you balance crafting relatable stories with maintaining your unique voice as a songwriter?
I always draw from my own experiences when I write. By focusing on specific moments in my life and translating them into lyrics, I believe that's where the relatability comes from. For me, being honest and raw in my storytelling is key. While I have numerous musical influences that inspire me, I'm careful to ensure that the essence of my music remains authentic to my experiences. By being truthful in my approach, I naturally blend relatable stories with my unique voice, giving my music a distinct touch that's all my own.