Jon of the Shred On the Making Of ‘Out of Runway’
What was the creative process like for this particular album?
Thanks for the chat, Katrina! I had actually just moved into a new house, 3000 miles away from my hometown, and set up a studio in the master bedroom. The view from the window was a mountain range at the edge of visible desert expanse. The bittersweet melancholy of leaving behind everything I had ever known to embark on a new frontier and all of the life changes both good and bad definitely fought their way into the sonic landscape. It's a pretty somber album. (I've since moved back. Didn't last long!)
Can you talk about any standout tracks on the album and what makes them special to you?
I can't really pinpoint any specific track off the album as particularly special or unique. The first half is mostly bittersweet, and the second half is much more somber and moody. The last three tracks all start with that lofi hip hop but progress into these dark, ambient mood pieces, and I guess those transitions would be my favorite moments. I did like the chord progressions throughout this album, as well.
What impact do you hope 'Out of Runway' will have on your audience?
I am giving them a se quel and expansion to "Landing Gear" and "Departing Flight," that being lofi hip hop blended with funky prog and ambient dungeon synth/vaporwave. I hope they enjoy this latest installment!
Can you share a bit about your musical background and the journey that led you to where you are today?
I've been playing guitar and writing songs since way back around 2000, 2001. Have been in many bands, have had songs featured in many TV shows (like WWE, NFL, NBA, MLB, NBC, CBS, TMZ, Nascar, UFC, Growing Up Hip Hop, Black Ink Crew, Brad Loves Judy, Love After Lockup, etc.) and composed the entire soundtracks to over 10 video games, including Happy's Humble Burger Farm, Northbury Grove, and To the End of Days, among various others.
Are there any specific themes or messages that you aim to convey through your music?
I hope it serves as good music for studying, meditating, relaxing, brooding, introspection, napping, doing your taxes, or just plain old escapism!