Nathan Irving On the Making Of "Optics"
What was the initial spark or idea that led to the creation of "Optics?"
The song started with the guitar & vocal chop which immediately resonated with me. We wanted something simple in production but with lyrics that cut to the core of many different areas of life right now. At the time I was reading a lot about the 2008 financial crisis and just sort of processing just how weird it's been to grow up in a time where on the one side we're constantly "on" (social media/releasing music etc) and on the other side we're at the mercy of insanely powerful forces outside of our control (like the banks in 2008). This song was ultimately a note to self saying "It's ok to have a tough time during tough times - good job just showing up!"
What do you like the best about this track?
Other than the lyrics (which are some of my favorite of any song I've written), I love when the piano comes in during post-chorus - it feels a little Bruce Hornsby/Bon Iver in a comforting sort of way.
How did you work with the producer or engineers to bring your vision for "Optics" to life?
Like any Sleeping Lion song, Noah Longworth McGuire was at the helm - not much changed from the original demo to the final in terms of sound design (it was exactly right from the start). Overall it was just some small changes, getting the transition into/out of the choruses right, and Ziptye's master that brought it all together.
How do you translate your inspirations into musical ideas and compositions?
On the sonic side, it always comes down to a feeling - I always trust when a certain sound or part strikes a nerve or makes me feel nostalgic. Lyrically, I'm a sponge taking bits and pieces from various places. These lyrics were inspired by: attachment styles, my friend passing away, suburban construction, "Trick Mirror" by Jia Tolentino, "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis, "That Funny Feeling" by Bo Burnham, "Someone Who Will Love You In All Your Damaged Glory" by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, Tik Tok, and credit card debt.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in music?
I grew up with musical parents & my grandmother taught me piano. In high school, I started a folk band and eventually toured a little bit. In college, I started Sleeping Lion with Noah Longworth McGuire and we made some waves with our own music as well as writing/producing songs for others. Now, I'm going back to my folk (/indie) style with my new solo project "Nathan Irving"