nasmore On the Making Of "When It Feels So Fake"
Can you share any interesting or unique musical elements or production techniques used in "When It Feels So Fake?"
Absolutely! Producing "When It Feels So Fake" was a wonderful journey of experimentation and sonic exploration. There are several elements and techniques that stand out.
For example, to create a raw emotional connection between the two parts of the song, there is a moment of stark minimalism juxtaposed against a richly layered crescendo. This dynamic movement helps convey the emotional peaks and valleys of feeling out of touch with one's reality.
Also, throughout the song, there's a deliberate play with panning and space. Instruments and sounds frequently move from left to right, immersing listeners into a 3D sound environment. This mirrors the song's theme of navigating through the blurry lines of reality and fiction.
To make the track resonate more with the theme, I sampled and layered sounds from everyday life but manipulated them in a way that they sound slightly 'off' or 'distorted.' This subtle twist further plays into the song's narrative of things feeling 'fake' or 'distant.'
In essence, my aim with "When It Feels So Fake" was not just to craft a song, but a soundscape that evokes the uncertainty and unease of not being able to distinguish between what's real and what isn't."
How did you approach the arrangement and composition of the music for "When It Feels So Fake?"
Arranging and composing “When It Feels So Fake” was both an intuitive and intentional process. Here's a closer look at my approach:
Before diving into the technicalities, I wanted the song to have a narrative arc that corresponds to its theme. It begins with a sense of confusion, dives into moments of introspection, and culminates in a resolve or acceptance of the 'fakeness' of it all. The arrangement was designed to echo this journey.
I started the song with a sparse arrangement — very punchy but haunting kick drum to immediately capture the listener's attention and hint at the forthcoming exploration. As the song moves into its verses, the music gradually builds in complexity.
The chorus is where the arrangement is fullest. It's the emotional climax of the track, with all elements coming together to underscore the main theme. However, instead of making it overpoweringly dense, I ensured there's still space in the mix for each element to breathe, mirroring the clarity one seeks amidst the chaos.
Then there is a bridge after the second chorus. It breaks away from the established patterns, offering a sonic palette cleanse. It’s a bit experimental, reflecting moments of self-questioning and doubt. It then builds back into the third verse with renewed energy.
Compositionally, I wanted a balance between predictability and surprise. It was important to me that the musical choices served the emotional and narrative intent of the song, ensuring that the listener is not just hearing, but feeling the message."
What did you enjoy most about making this track?
Creating “When It Feels So Fake” was a truly enriching experience for me. What I enjoyed the most was the process of discovery. I ventured outside of my typical boundaries, experimenting with unfamiliar instruments and techniques, which made every studio session feel like a new adventure.
Also, the song's theme resonated deeply with my personal observations. Being able to channel those emotions into music was cathartic. I found joy in the small moments, like when a particular sound texture perfectly captured a sentiment, or when a lyrical phrase encapsulated a complex emotion.
Lastly, witnessing the song evolve from its initial idea to the final mix was profoundly satisfying. It's like watching a story unfold, and with each layer added to production, the narrative becomes richer and more vivid.
Where do you find inspiration for your songs or musical ideas?
Finding inspiration is a continual journey, and it comes from many different sources. Personal experiences, whether they're joyous, heartbreaking, or introspective, offer a lot of song ideas. A simple walk in the park, a deep conversation with a friend, or even a moment of introspection can all be catalysts. Reading a compelling book, visiting an art gallery, or watching a thought-provoking movie can evoke powerful emotions and ideas in me. Occasionally, I wake up with a melody or lyrical idea in my head. The subconscious mind is a mysterious and wonderful thing, and I often find that my most unique ideas come from dreams or daydreams.
How do you approach collaborations with other musicians and maintain creative synergy?
Collaborating with other musicians is one of the most rewarding aspects of my musical journey. It's like merging different worlds to create something new and unique. Every artist brings a unique flavor to the table. I believe, it's essential to respect and value each other's perspectives and ideas.
I also believe that listening is just as important as contributing. By actively hearing out my collaborator's ideas and understanding their thought process, I can respond more effectively, and together, we can craft something that represents both of us. We all know that not every idea will align perfectly. There are times when compromise is necessary.
Ultimately, the key to successful collaboration lies in mutual respect, open communication, and a shared passion for the music. When these elements come together, the resulting synergy can lead to something truly extraordinary. Even though I collaborate a lot, I still learn how to do it better.