Feature: Harry Kappen Decodes ‘Time will tell’
Photo Credit: Harry Kappen
What was the creative process like for this particular album?
It started with the first single “The freedom inside.” It initially stood alone, but when more songs were added, the idea quickly arose to put them together on one album. I rarely have a preconceived plan, but it developed over time. Because I made the songs in approximately the same flow, they also fit together well. Lots of guitars again, melodic and hopefully accessible to the listener. I usually make the music first and then the lyrics. I wrote the lyrics for the last 9 new songs in one piece, which also promotes cohesion. Furthermore, I mixed all the songs in about 2 weeks, which is quite fast for me. I did take the time to think carefully about the production before mixing. I listened to rough versions a lot in my car, melody lines were definitively recorded, so that the production itself could ultimately be carried out quickly. Good preparation and taking the time to do so is half the battle.
Was there any challenge that you encountered while making 'Time will tell?'
Not so, because I spent a lot of time preparing. Of course, it is always a challenge, but I love the process so much that I especially enjoy it. I even thought it was a shame when it was finished... And I will admit to you that, now that it is finished, I have already entered into the next process. The contours of the next CD are already in my head. What sometimes makes it difficult is that I have to divide my time between that musical process and the job I also have as a music therapist. That job also demands a lot from me in terms of concentration; I am working on the therapy processes of my clients and want to guide them as best as possible. That often takes precedence over my own creative process, that’s just the way it is. I now know that there will always be time for myself and that reassures me enough.
Can you talk about any standout tracks on 'Time will tell' and what makes them special to you?
Because it is a personal album, with personal topics, it would be difficult for me to say which song is my favorite song. They are all very dear to me. I love the energy of the opening track “Cool down,” I love the guitar sound and openness of “Where the volcano is awake,” in “One life” I declare my love to the love of my life, For “Go with the tide” I was inspired by a well-known artist that you often encounter in the charts these days. I won't say who, but sometimes I like the sound of a song so much that I use it as a source of inspiration for my own ideas. I like the melody lines of 'Time will tell.' In short, for me every song has a quality that really appeals to me and that I am now satisfied with. A number of songs are about my personal future and the place where I will live in the coming years. Right now it's still an abstract plan in my head, but it will probably become a reality soon. The album is really a current album for me that also fits my current phase of life.
Can you share a standout moment from one of your live performances that you'll never forget?
I have to go way back in my memory to answer this question. I used to perform a lot with different bands in the Netherlands and abroad. In small halls, but also on large stages. I must say that I have always enjoyed small venues, because the contact with the audience is much stronger. Nowadays my projects are all studio projects and I play everything myself, without a band. But if the opportunity presents itself, I will definitely form a band again, especially because I think that the last 2 albums, 'Escape' and 'Time will tell,' contain enough songs that are very suitable for playing live.
What do you enjoy most being a musician?
I have been making music since I was young and I don't know what life would be like without music. When I compare myself to people around me I feel privileged and lucky that I am able to make the music I want, in my way. Music is the language in which I can express myself best. Also, the best way to communicate with others. Music is also a universal language. That was one of the reasons that, in addition to being a musician, I also became a music therapist, because I understood that every person can relate to music at their own level. Music is emotion and emotion is music, a wonderful instrument to safely practice in therapy in the musical world that has become too difficult for some in daily life. A great instrument to be able to be myself.
