ifitbeyourwill S04E22 • SJ Riedel of Dutch Mustard

SJ Riedel from Dutch Mustard takes us on an emotional and musical journey that began at eight years old, all sparked by the iconic film "School of Rock." Her story is a testament to passion and perseverance, from diligently saving up for her first guitar to mastering classical compositions in the Netherlands. After moving to the UK, SJ's transition to rock music marked the beginning of a new chapter, where early songwriting and an unforgettable school talent show win set the stage for her burgeoning career.

In our conversation, SJ opens up about the pivotal shift from band member to solo artist. After forgoing traditional college in favor of a sound engineering apprenticeship in London, she discovered a new world of creative possibilities. The isolation of the COVID lockdown, though challenging, offered her a unique opportunity for self-reflection and musical innovation, resulting in 20 demos and a debut EP. SJ's narrative highlights how this time of solitude was a catalyst for finding her authentic voice and artistic identity.

Listeners will be inspired by SJ's resilience as she navigates the music industry, embracing authenticity and collaboration with artists like Steve Milbourne and Gang of Youths' guitarist. Her story of overcoming personal struggles and the serendipitous connections that shaped her career is truly uplifting. With upcoming live performances, recording sessions, and new music releases on the horizon, SJ embodies the power of positive energy and creative collaboration. Join us for an episode filled with heartfelt stories, exciting plans, and the unwavering passion that fuels SJ's musical journey.

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Dutch Mustard blends ethereal dream-pop, 90s alt-rock, and shoegaze, creating a unique sound of abstract drones, psych- infused guitar lines, and SJ’s versatile vocals—ranging from delicate whispers to powerful bursts. Her music layers atmospheric textures with raw emotion, offering a captivating, genre-defying sound that's both dreamy and dynamic.

D U T C H M U S T A R D 

Slow Salvation • 'The Ghost of Last Christmas’ • 2024

ifitbeyourwill S04E21 • Matthew Thomas Dillon of Windmill

What drives an artist from secretive teenage recordings to captivating live performances and recording contracts? Join us as we embark on a journey with Matthew Thomas Dillon, the creative mind behind Windmill, whose musical evolution has been nothing short of transformative. Matthew shares his story about moving from quiet four-track sessions to the spotlight. Through a conversation rich with Matthew's personal insights, discover how an unexpected love for pop music shaped his songwriting.

Unveiling the whirlwind of emotions behind releasing a debut album, we navigate Matthew's reflections on the unexpected praise and the introspective process of music creation. The stories behind tracks like "Tokyo Moon," "Replace Me," and "Boarding Lounges" reveal their deeper significance, serving as reminders of ambition and new beginnings. This chapter captures the delicate balance between personal detachment and artistic expression, where Matthew's blend of poetry and subconscious creativity turns his music into intimate memories or snapshots of life, rather than mere songs.

In a heartfelt exploration of artistic fulfillment, Matthew shares how the purchase of an acoustic piano reignited his passion for music creation. He discusses integrating classical piano into his work, leading to a unique approach of releasing multiple versions of tracks on Bandcamp. Additionally, his innovative vocal techniques highlight the importance of authenticity and genuine emotion, painting a vivid picture of an artist dedicated to capturing raw, unique qualities in music. Tune in to experience Matthew's journey through the struggles and triumphs of a music career, leaving listeners inspired by the power of personal expression.

http://www.matthewthomasdillon.com/

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"Subtly beautiful and hugely addictive.****4 Stars" - The Sunday Telegraph

"An impressive album of displacement anxiety with sonics to match. Think Mercury Rev making a break up album. ****4 Stars" - The Independent

"...his style is utterly his own. Timeless and graceful. Strings and percussion, ominous echoes and soft, sweet choirs add richness to tales of asthmatics and fashion houses, plastic pre-flight seats and boarding lounges that you can't help returning to. ****4 Stars" - The Guardian

"Windmill's lovely way with melody and borderline brilliant sense of the emotional dynamics between his own plaintive piano style, heartwrenching

cello and gorgeous washes of full-on strings." - MOJO

"The Mercury people should make a note because their will be no better British album this year - 10/10 ." - Comfort Comes

future star • Santa Must Have Winter Tires • 2024

futurestar.rocks

Perfume Genius & Alan Sparhawk • “Point of Disgust” • 2024

Once, I was lost

To the point of disgust

I had in my sight

Lack of vision

Lack of light

ifitbeyourwill S04E20 • Nigel Chapman of Nap Eyes

https://www.napeyes.com/

Nigel Chapman, the creative force behind the band Nap Eyes, unveils the captivating story of his musical evolution, from his early days with The Mighty Northumberland to the latest album "The Neon Gate." Broadcasting from the picturesque landscapes of Nova Scotia, Nigel candidly discusses his transition from science to music and the vibrant, albeit challenging, Halifax music scene. His reflections on collaborating with bandmate Brad and friend/producer Mike, along with the profound influence of iconic bands such as the Pixies, provide a fascinating glimpse into the unique blend of analytical and artistic elements that define his songwriting journey.

Ever wondered how a silent meditation retreat can unlock new realms of creativity? Nigel shares his transformative experience at a Goenka-style Vipassana retreat, revealing how the discipline and focus of mindfulness unexpectedly fueled his songwriting process. With nothing but gum wrappers to capture ideas, he navigated the challenges of an incomplete song and emerged with fresh verses that redefined the piece. This story highlights the powerful intersection of mindfulness and creativity, offering fresh perspectives on how unconventional environments can inspire artistic breakthroughs.

Excitement fills the air as Nigel shares insights into the collaborative creation and release of "The Neon Gate," reflecting on the emotional rollercoaster of sharing new music after years of uncertainty. The joy of receiving positive fan feedback and the anticipation of upcoming live performances, including a show with MJ Lenderman in Brooklyn, are brought to life through Nigel's vibrant storytelling. As we explore themes of magical realism and musical appreciation, we encourage listeners to support artists by purchasing records, fuelling the shared joy and connection that music brings to both creators and fans.

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Nap Eyes' fifth album unfurls like the daydreams of a stoned academic: philosophical phantasmagoria mesh with references to Wave Race 64 and the Goo Goo Dolls' best song. But what could be a chaotic jumble instead feels clear-eyed, nimble and witty — the Halifax quartet's relaxed confidence and dexterous instrumentation let The Neon Gate's songs transform and enhance their subject matter, however heady it may be. What other band would attempt to set a W.B. Yeats poem to an indie rock groove, let alone manage to make it work? Paul Blinov

ifitbeyourwill S04E19 • TW Walsh

TW Walsh, a talented musician and audio engineer, takes us on a nostalgic journey through his musical upbringing. Growing up amidst the eclectic sounds of classic rock and new wave, thanks to his father's diverse taste, Walsh reveals how pivotal moments like watching Led Zeppelin's "The Song Remains the Same" shaped his passion for music. This episode promises to uncover the profound influence that early exposure to the cultural shifts of the 60s, 70s, and the emergence of 80s pop and hip-hop had on his creative path, culminating in his latest album, "Wilderness."

Listeners are invited to explore Walsh's transition from a passionate drummer to a solo artist with a unique voice in the alt-country and alt-rock scenes. We discuss the crucial turning points in his career, from the DIY music era to receiving unexpected recognition from peers, leading to a solo record deal in Seattle. This episode highlights Walsh's authentic sound and the personal nature of his early recordings, including his 1999 album, "How We Spend Our Days," reflecting on the dynamic evolution of his musical journey.

Technological advancements in music production form a backdrop to Walsh's creative process. Equipped with engineering and computer science skills, Walsh embraces digital audio workstations to transform his songwriting practice. As he shares insights on navigating audience feedback while maintaining personal artistic integrity, listeners are encouraged to appreciate the diverse artistic outlets that keep creativity flowing. Discover standout tracks like "Hypnotized" from his new record and hear how Walsh envisions future creative ventures across multiple mediums, ensuring that his artistic journey is ever-evolving.

 

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https://twwalsh.com/

“I believe in TW Walsh and I am not afraid to die!” That’s David Bazan’s proclamation on his song “Bands With Managers” on Pedro the Lion’s album Achilles Heel, put out in 2004, about the same time that TW Walsh stopped playing with the band and David Bazan first retired the moniker. He’s an audio engineer who has worked with thousands of artists, including Benjamin Gibbard, Sufjan Stevens, and of course, David Bazan. And his latest surprise album, Wilderness, share some of Gibbard’s and Death Cab For Cutie’s latest guitar flavors. read more….

Seán Barna • "Firefly" ft. Mirah • 2024

Don’t let me teach you how to fight

Boys are just boys when they learn to lie

Just like you

Can’t believe I’m here

Just like you

I’m so sincere

Disappear my firefly

I still wear your sweater

Hope you’ll wear mine

Look for you 

Through the trees

Shine your light

I promise 

This time

I’ll be sweet

Horsegirl • “2468” • 2024

https://horsegirl.mat-r.co/pono

Evan Honer • lead role • 2024

Website

“This is a very out-of-the-box song for me,” shares Honer. “It’s an interesting concept with very unstructured rhyme schemes. ‘lead role' continues the story of this girl ‘annabelle’ and puts it into the perspective of a movie. It starts off with, ‘I got the lead role to a part I never wanted / In a movie where the guy lets down the girl in the end.’ The song features doubled vocals, and I’ve only released one other song where my vocals have been doubled. This sound is new for me and I am very happy with how it came out.”

ifitbeyourwill S04E18 • Robin Koob of Run Remedy

What happens when life throws a curveball at your classical music dreams? Discover the inspiring journey of Robin Koob, the creative mind behind Run Remedy, as she transitions from a classically trained violinist to an indie folk rock artist. Faced with carpal tunnel syndrome, Robin redirected her path, embracing new musical styles and international teaching roles that fueled her artistic evolution. With resilience and adaptability, she now balances her passion for music with her role as an international corporate trainer, crafting a unique blend of sound that defies traditional boundaries.

Manchester becomes a muse for musicians seeking to immerse themselves fully in their craft. Listen as we unravel the story of a musician moving from a day job to creating dramatic black metal string compositions with Pine. Using innovative techniques like altering pitches and effects pedals, they craft orchestral pieces on the spot. Personal motivations, such as a poignant conversation with a late mother, inspire this creative leap, while the challenge of self-production turns into an empowering journey of self-expression and storytelling.

Music as a tool for exploring identity and healing takes center stage in our exploration of songwriting and queer narratives. From high school songwriting competitions to the release of "Disciple" our guest shares how music helps process past traumas and religious experiences. Unravel the complex tapestry of spirituality, struggle, and the search for meaning as we weave through themes of self-discovery and redemption. These powerful narratives reveal the profound connection between music and authenticity, offering solace and understanding amidst life's chaos.

Titles:

ifitbeyourwill • Robin Koob: From Classical Violinist to Indie Folk Rock Innovator

Robin Koob and the Art of Musical Reinvention

Robin Koob's Evolution in Sound and Spirit

Robin Koob: Crafting Identity Through Song

From Strings to Queer Stories with Robin Koob

https://www.runremedy.com/

Run Remedy, the musical project of New Jersey-born, Manchester-based artist Robin Koob, has released a striking new single titled ‘Disciple’. Known for her genre-defying sound that blends elements of singer-songwriter intimacy, experimental rock dynamics, and psychedelic folk experimentation, Run Remedy's latest track delivers a potent mix of candour, confrontation, and catharsis. read more

Run Remedy • Disciple • LIVE in Manchester 2024

' Tell me about him - how he's gonna save my soul. Can he? Should he? No.'

Multi-instrumentalist self-proclaimed Jersey trash and Manchester 'string-slut', Run Remedy is making sad queer girl bangers for the soul starved.

https://www.runremedy.com/

ifitbeyourwill S04E17• David Lowery of Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven

What happens when the worlds of music and mathematics collide? David Lowery, from the iconic bands Cracker and Camper Van Beethoven, joins us to share his intriguing journey from a math enthusiast to a prolific songwriter. Discover how his passion for numbers influences his unique, almost scientific approach to creating music. David also lets us into his world of hobbies, including amateur radio, and shares insights into his solo projects born out of the creative solitude during the COVID-19 pandemic. This conversation is a testament to Lowery's innovative spirit, where even the unlikeliest of inspirations can spark musical genius.

Reimagine the past with Cracker's "Alternative History" project as we explore the motivations behind this retrospective collection. David opens up about the band's quest to offer a genuine narrative free from the confines of algorithm-driven playlists and licensing hurdles. We delve into the creative process behind the alternate takes and unique collaborations with artists like Leftover Salmon and members of Drive-By Truckers, giving fans an authentic glimpse into Cracker’s evolution. Moreover, David shares his experiences at the University of Georgia, where he champions fair practices in the music industry while fostering the next generation of artists.

For aspiring musicians, the path to success is often fraught with challenges, but David offers invaluable advice. From the significance of producing a vast catalog of music to the irreplaceable value of live performances, he emphasizes building a real connection with your audience. We also discuss the importance of diversifying income sources and maintaining a balance to prevent creative burnout. Join us as we conclude with a poignant reflection on the emotional toll of farewells, capturing the bittersweet nature of goodbyes through poetic expression. Don't miss the upcoming release of "Alternate History: A Cracker Retrospect," which promises a fresh take on the band's legacy.

 

https://crackerband.lnk.to/alternative_history

www.crackersoul.com

To the uninitiated Cracker might seem to be just another 90s alternative rock band. However, fans recognize that the band is much more than that, having skillfully explored a wide array of styles over nearly 35 years.Regrettably, when newcomers hear a Cracker song and wish to learn more about the band, they often start with algorithmic streaming playlists. These playlists are typically limited to the dozen or so tracks with the most streams. As a result, these playlists are dominated by a few albums from the early 1990s, the heyday of alternative rock radio. There are also a few “greatest hits” compilations for Cracker available, but these at best cover only the first third of the band’s 35-year career. Both of these sources overlook some of the band’s most critically acclaimed and fan-favorite work. read more…

https://crackerband.lnk.to/sickofgoodbyes

Moody Joody • El Camino High • 2024

"El Camino High" on Songs You Need to Know

"Spirited, seductive fever dream: A rush of radiant alt-pop ecstasy, 'Ground Control' soars on anxious waves of raw, restless energy..cathartic, compelling upheaval."

"['Ground Control' is] a radiant and hopeful anthem that encourages listeners to rise above burnout and rediscover joy in life’s everyday moments. Fueled by vibrant melodies and clever rhyme schemes, the song channels a sense of catharsis.."

"El Camino High," looks at the past through rose-colored glasses, putting a relationship in a better light than it really was. Like a late afternoon cruise, it pushes forward smoothly as it evokes waves of nostalgia and lingers long after it ends. The band is thrilled to share a track that they each feel represents the band today and where they are headed. Hall adds, "it felt like the perfect way to end our journey with the 'Dream Girl' EP while simultaneously catapulting us into a next new album chapter feeling like we’ve really honed in on who we are as a band. 'El Camino High' truly feels like Moody Joody at our best across the board from the lyrics and musical composition to the way it translates so seamlessly to video and the live show." Producer Andrew Pacheco echoes the energy it brings to the live show and adds, "It’s been a lot of fun to play live on this last tour, and I’m looking forward to seeing how that energy inspires the next batch of new music."

Website

Moving Into Tucson • Heart & Soul • 2024

 

Get ready to dive headfirst into the neon-lit world of 80’s pop!

MOVING INTO TUCSON is back with a new single that's pure nostalgia. HEART & SOUL is a synth-pop anthem packed with infectious beats, heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies.

With its driving beat and catchy chorus, this track is guaranteed to get your blood pumping and your feet tapping. The band's soaring vocals, synth-laden sounds and infectious melodies will have you singing along in no time.

https://www.instagram.com/movingintotucson/

Sunnsetter • Take a shot • 2024

Sunnsetter knows their pedigree. What flows through them, the reasons they create, the music they love to listen to, play, work on and with and what they have learned, honed, and squirreled away is evidentiary. The foundations they build on, aren’t on the surface, perhaps vastly accessible or linear to your run-of-the-mill radio listener, (and that’s completely fine) but fuck do they slap, when that wall of other-worldy melodic, expertly crafted sound crashes down around you. They were built, layer by layer with purpose. Crafted with love by their maker. 

"on Sunnsetter’s new album, Heaven Hang Over Me, the listener is plunged into an obscure and somewhat darkened universe of trilling emo rock guitar leads, thick shoegaze chords, plodding drum beats, and faraway, frayed vocals.”
-RANGE

"The jangly ambient track recalls the static riffs and heavenly synths of classic shoegaze acts like My Bloody Valentine, while McLeod’s soft-spoken vocals evoke the acceptance and peace the track speaks of."
- Glide Magazine

"This is one of those songs you can get lost in, or pull around you for some extra warmth and feel fine for three-and-a-half minutes [...] if warm, shoegazey textures are your kind of thing then you’re gonna love their new record.”
- Backseat Mafia

CIAO MALZ • Safe Then Sorry • 2024

“Two Feet Tall is about the feeling of losing an inch every day you put off making that call you really need to make. It’s the pile of clothes growing bigger and feeling yourself getting smaller. Regardless of the overcompensation, the mountains to hide behind — that unsettling feeling persists. I wanted to evoke the feeling of stagnation while everything else is in motion, so the lead on this track quivers in front of the persistent drums that push the scene along.” – Malia DelaCruz (CIAO MALZ)

CIAO MALZ

Drinking all the milk and missing all the three pointers

Think about it still, find new ways to disappoint her

Always one thing, after another aint it

Always reaching, for the back cupboard 

Frankie Sunswept & The Sliver Moons • Change • 2024

Frankie Sunswept & The Sliver Moons' latest single, Change (November 15th), is about resilience and transformation. Inspired by the music of Hailu Mergia and Luzmila Carpio, Change is a celebration of life and joy as an act of resistance. The song was lyrically inspired by a news article recounting Ukrainian citizens' account of the war and their memories of home, and is more broadly a statement on the power of the human spirit and of nature itself to survive and transform in the face of chaos. 

https://www.instagram.com/frankiesunswept

ifitbeyourwill S04E16 • Emma Danner of Red Ribbon

Emma Danner from Red Ribbon invites you to an inspiring journey through her musical universe. Ever wondered how isolation can spur creativity and how a city like Los Angeles can offer both loneliness and limitless potential? Emma unpacks her unique experiences, including the move to LA fueled by her passion for music, and the role mentors like Loretta Taylor played in her early development. She recounts her musical beginnings, from the innocence of childhood piano lessons to the vibrant streets of San Francisco where she busked while studying classical violin. Her story embodies resilience, shaped by the challenges and triumphs of navigating the music industry during the pandemic.

Peek into the world of music production as Emma reveals what it takes to compose her self-titled album, set to grace your playlist on November 1st. She shares the emotional transformation of grief into art through her debut record "Freaks Only," and the vibrant collaboration with notable producer Randall Dunn, blending genres in unexpected ways. The episode captures the essence of being an independent artist—juggling studio deadlines, self-booked tours, and service industry jobs, all while remaining agile and open to spontaneous opportunities. Emma's narrative is a testament to passion, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of one's craft amidst an ever-changing landscape.

 

Link iconorcd.co/cryingmycar

https://www.instagram.com/red.ribbon

Emma Danner’s fourth record as Red Ribbon serves as a kind of re-introduction. It’s her first release since moving from Seattle to Los Angeles, and her first made alongside the legendary producer Rob Schnapf (Elliott Smith, Cat Power). Red Ribbon is also Danner’s most unflinching record to date—her most blunt, her least sweet. Candid, brutal, and beautiful, the album channels unapologetic songwriters like Chan Marshall and PJ Harvey. “I’ve always censored myself, but on Red Ribbon, I let myself be more free,” Danner says. “This record feels visceral.” Red Ribbon is gutsy: a study in sex and heartache, it’s an irresistible document of liberation and vulnerability.  Dangercollective

Red Ribbon • YSFP • 2024

Discussing the track further within the context of the self-titled record, she continues: “To work up the courage to write this, I had to fool myself into thinking I was writing about one of my best friend’s wedding. I wanted to say ‘You’re so fucking pretty’ in a sense of awe to her—because she is so beautiful to me. But it became so obvious that this is a breakup song. And that this record is so much about (although not entirely) that ending. I tend to have clarity in my work before I have clarity in my mind. So many times, I’ve written about something only to see it come to fruition later. I need to be careful about it. I presume it works the way that many things do: thoughts turn into words, which turn into action, which turns into reality. It’s not like magic or anything, it’s just how it goes.” flood