John Clark On the Making Of “Made of Sun”
How does "Made of Sun" reflect your musical journey and growth as an artist?
I only have a handful of songs that made me cry when I wrote them - this is one. I am not sure that I am growing as an artist but this is the latest chapter in my book of life.
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "Made of Sun?"
I got immersed in a musician named Ren's music. His music and life story blew my mind. Everyone needs to go watch “Hi Ren” on YouTube and follow their way down the rabbit hole. Also, some friends of mine were going through a tough time, losing the patriarch of their family and that was also heavy on my mind.
Were there any memorable or standout moments during the recording sessions for "Made of Sun?"
Yes. When I wrote the song parked on the island of the lake where I live, sitting in my boat. The sun was going down beyond the horizon but just blinding me like it was only shining on me and I sang but Im made of sun, Im made of song - and it disappeared for the day....leaving me with my thoughts and my new song.
Can you tell us more about you as a band?
My band for this album is a long-distance band. My producer Freddy Parra lives in South America and we have never got to meet in person. He plays some of the guitar solos on this one and produced much of the track. Harry Waters was on tour all summer with Les Claypool so he was doubtful for the album but had just enough time to crank out all 15 tunes before returning to the road with a different band for their European tour! Nolan Cook added guitar to the whole album from his studio In Cali as well. Nolan and Harry are two of my favorite musicians so it is truly a dream come true to make a whole album of music with them!! Harry and I wrote and put out an original album called ‘Sea Oddity’ a few years back. We did a Pink Floyd covers album as well of instrumental versions of some of our favorite Floyd tunes. Harry's dad happens to be Roger Waters from Pink Floyd so seemed like a good fit!! We also did a solo piano album called ‘The Storyteller Makes No Choice’ - instrumental solo piano versions of our ‘Sea Oddity’ album!!
Anyway, the whole 15-track album called ‘Where Will We Glow?’ comes out on March 29th, 2024 worldwide!