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

ifitbeyourwill S03 E38 • Tyler Burkhart

Tyler Burkhart discovered his passion for music while balancing a fulfilling career as a social worker – a journey that we explore in our latest episode. From his beginnings in a musically rich household to his collegiate epiphany with recording and producing, Tyler shares the evolution of his artistic identity. We delve into his extensive catalog on Bandcamp, his DIY ethos, and the profound impact his day job has on his songwriting. Tyler’s candid reflections offer a glimpse into the intimate and honest nature of his songs, revealing the heart and soul behind his music.

As life grows fuller, finding time for creativity becomes a delicate dance, a topic Tyler knows all too well. He opens up about the challenges of balancing responsibilities while carving out Monday evenings for focused music work. His creative process, often inspired by guitar experiments and artists like Nick Drake, has matured technically while retaining its emotional core. We dive into the beauty and impermanence of life, relationships, and self-love, themes that resonate deeply in Tyler’s poignant lyrics and stirring guitar solos. Don't miss this enriching conversation that promises to leave you reflecting on life's fleeting moments.

Instagram

 

ifitbeyourwill S03 E37 • Mutual Benefit

What if your musical journey could take you from church bands in Ohio to pioneering an ethereal genre called "Astral Folk"? Join us as we sit down with Jordan Lee from Mutual Benefit to explore his evolution from a childhood steeped in Christian hymns and rock classics to discovering the sonic landscapes of Fugazi and Godspeed You! Black Emperor. Jordan takes us through his early songwriting days, fueled by an urge to impress and the magic of GarageBand, painting a vivid picture of his formative years and the nostalgic influences that shaped his unique sound.

Uncover the raw vulnerability and personal discovery central to Jordan's music as he shares intimate stories from his artistic journey. We discuss the impact of pivotal albums like Bright Eyes' "I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning," and the delicate artistry of Sufjan Stevens and Joanna Newsome. Jordan opens up about the challenge of performing deeply personal songs as an introvert, revealing his technique of retreating inward during performances to deliver heartfelt music. His candid reflections provide a deeper understanding of his creative process and the emotional layers within his work.

Journey with us to the genesis of Mutual Benefit's album "Growing at the Edges," a creation born from the turbulence of lockdown and a transformative political climate. Jordan tells us how personal and political experiences, including mutual aid and Black Lives Matter activism, influenced his music during this period. We also explore the significance of connecting children with nature, inspired by the teachings of Robin Wall Kimmerer's "Braiding Sweetgrass," and the intimate essence of releasing both polished records and raw demos. Ending with poetic musings on resilience and growth, Jordan leaves us with hopeful reflections on life's unexpected journeys and the possibilities that lie ahead. Don't miss this episode packed with compelling stories, heartfelt conversations, and the poetic richness of musical growth amidst adversity.

 

https://www.mutualbenef.it/

linktr.ee

ifitbeyourwill S03 E35 • The Brother Brothers

https://www.thebrotherbrothersmusic.com/

How does the unique bond between identical twins shape their musical journey and creative process? Today's episode features the Brother Brothers, David and Adam, as they walk us through their deeply intertwined musical experiences. From the early days influenced by their parents' eclectic record collection to the significant impact of the Kerrville Folk Festival on their songwriting, you'll hear firsthand how these elements have molded their sound. We'll explore the pivotal moments that nudged them from instrumentalists to celebrated songwriters, and how the songwriting community at Kerrville served as a catalyst for their development.

In the second half of our conversation, we uncover the intricate dynamics that make their collaboration so special. Adam opens up about David's role as the principal songwriter and how their sibling synergy fosters an environment of creative growth. We delve into their meticulous harmonizing techniques and how they balance simplicity with complexity in their melodies. Finally, get a glimpse into their future plans as Adam prepares for a bustling year touring with Levi Turner and David embarks on a series of intimate solo performances. Don't miss this intimate and insightful discussion with the Brother Brothers about music, family, and what lies ahead.

“the warm harmonies and silky melodies of identical twins David and Adam Moss evoke the kind of ’60s-era folk tunes that reverberated through dark, wood-paneled bars in the Village… If these brothers aren’t among the Americana Music Association’s nominees for Emerging Artist or Duo-Group, I want a recount.” — No Depression

ifitbeyourwill S03 E34 • Kee Avil

Welcome to the latest episode of "If It Be Your Will" podcast with today’s special guest, experimental artist Kee Avil! In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of music improvisation and the creative processes with experimental music. Montréal producer and guitarist Vicky Mettler is Kee Avil, sharing her captivating journey into improvisational music, with emphasis on its spontaneous and collaborative nature. The discussion expands to encompass Vicky's music production process, her new musical setup, and the visual aesthetics intertwined with her music and videos. They also dissect the creative evolution behind Vicky's albums, from individual songs to layered compositions, and her upcoming plans for shows and new music...

https://keeavil.com/

Kee Avil’s music is both adventurous and intimate, intellectually challenging and emotionally resonant. The Montréal guitarist and producer’s 2022 debut LP Crease garnered plaudits from outlets like The Wire, The Quietus, Mojo and Foxy Digitalis, picking up a Canadian Juno Award nomination and Bandcamp Album Of The Day and Albums Of The Year along the way. Its intricate construction, unnerving atmospheres, and knife-edge take on avant-pop prompted comparisons to early PJ Harvey, This Heat, and Gazelle Twin. A remix EP with work by claire rousay, Ami Dang, Cecile Believe, and Pelada brought collaborative perspectives to four Crease tracks, offering new pathways within those songs.

ifitbeyourwill S03 E28 • Holiday Ghosts

Join us on this latest episode of ifitbeyourwill podcast where we chat with Sam and Kat of the band Holiday Ghosts. We delve into the band's origins, musical evolution, and their latest album "Coat of Arms." We'll also hear about their upcoming European tour and the influence of various music scenes on their sound. Buckle up for a wonderful and playful discussion about their creative process, life updates, and a whole lot of appreciation for Brighton's music scene. Enjoy 🎙️ 

https://www.instagram.com/holidayghosts/

https://www.holidayghosts.co.uk/

Holiday Ghosts - a prolific four-piece of musicians and friends bring their hip-shaking, head

thrashing, raw and upbeat energy to their recordings and unforgettable live shows. The result is

unadulterated and unclean, unabashed and uncompromised. As drummer, Katja Rackin, and

guitarist Sam Stacpoole, share lead vocal duties, their voices come together as one with dispersed

harmonies, often joined by rhythm guitarist Ben Nightingale, and grounded by Morgan Lloyd-

Mathews tastefully simplistic bass grooves. Call it garagy, jangly, rock n rolly, indie, punky, poppy,

whatever you wanty.

ifitbeyourwill S03 E27 • Amy O

On today’s episode we welcome musician Amy O. Join us as we delve into Amy's formative years, her innovative songwriting endeavours, and her inspiring work with Girls Rock camps. Discover how Amy navigates creativity amidst motherhood and a pandemic, culminating in the release of her reflective and contemplative album. With candid conversations and insightful reflections, this podcast offers a compelling glimpse into Amy's artistry and her unwavering commitment to nurturing creativity in young women. Tune in for a captivating blend of music, storytelling, and personal anecdotes, as we invite you on an unforgettable journey through the heart of music-making. Enjoy 🎙️ 

linktr.ee/amyomusic

Amy O’s homemade pop songs sparkle with these eternal truths: that story-telling is part of being alive, and excavating the past is part of growth. Amy O started as the solo project of Amy Oelsner in 2004 and has evolved over the years with a rotating cast of band members. For show updates and more, join Amy's newsletter: forms.gle/YfaPec82rhaP8yVb9

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ifitbeyourwill S03 E26 • Penny Arcade

Hey everyone, welcome back to ifitbeyourwill Podcast. On this episode, we're getting down and dirty with the nitty-gritty of record making with our buddy James Hoare (Veronica Falls, The Proper Ornaments and Ultimate Painting). You might know him from Penny Arcade, and guess what? They've got a brand new record coming out, Backwater Collage (May 3rd)! We're gonna be chatting about the wild ride that went into making it, from finding drummers (apparently that's hard?) to the age-old battle between analog and digital recording. Plus, James is gonna fill us in on all his upcoming projects, including shows, a move to Brussels, and you guessed it, more music! Buckle up, music lovers, this is gonna be a fun one 🎙️ 

https://www.instagram.com/pennyarcade_music/

For this dreamy, hand-stitched record, Hoare has taken his time. Maybe because he had to rescue his songs from various recording sessions tinged with a number of mishaps he amusedly admits he is accustomed to: broken multitracks, failing tape machines, rarely available drummers living in the capital. The eleven intimate and solitary songs which make up the album, delivered in the greatest home recording tradition, are nonetheless cautiously produced. James unfurls pure, uncluttered melodies in which his gentle, melancholic voice mingles with smooth, warm vocals by Nathalia Bruno. Barely saturated guitar solos sometimes disrupt the clear, unpolished musical line. Hopping onboard, longtime friend Max Claps has added keyboard parts which manage to embrace the minimal nostalgia of the tracks while preventing any teary pathos. Similar to Jack Name or Syd Barrett – only less psychedelic – in terms of songwriting and stripped back atmosphere, Hoare is sitting on the Velvet Underground's black-and-white sofa and gives his album a subter- ranean feel.

ifitbeyourwill S03 E24 • Peter Holmström

Guitarist, songwriter, collaborator Peter Holmström of Pete International Airport and the Dandy Warhols talks of his experiences touring, his approach to songwriting collaboratively and writing kickin’ psychedelic experiences for the masses. We also delved into Peter's early musical influences, his continued experimentation with outrageous guitar pedals, all the while developing  his unique mind bending expansive sound. Lastly, we touched on Peter's upcoming projects, his busy touring schedule, and his future aspirations in music. Enjoy 🎙️ 

Pete International Airport is the brain child of Peter G. Holmström. Its name is borrowed from a song title by his other band, The Dandy Warhols. Pete International Airport’s third album, It Felt Like the End of the World, is a triumph of process and vision. The eclectic project nails the elusive aesthetic of unexpected yet inviting sound art. 

ifitbeyourwill S03 E22 • Flowertown

Dive into the world of the music of Flowertown. One part Cindy (Karina Gill), one part Tony Jay (Mike Ramos), all parts amazing alternative music. This episode explores their musical journeys, from childhood influences and early bands to their current songwriting processes. They reminisce about the Bay Area scene, discuss the evolution of the band, and delve into the origins and development of their collaborative project, Flowertown. Expect insightful discussions about artistic influences, creative approaches, and the power of collaboration, all wrapped up with a taste of Flowertown's latest album Tourist Language (Feb 2024). Don't miss this chance to peek behind the curtain of artistic creation!

https://flowertownsf.bandcamp.com/

Listening to the latest Flowertown collection you enter a new portal into their world. A blend of old-world romance and modern-day ephemera swirls together, beckoning you in. The music is romantic as a result of its intimate style, stripped back to only its essential components, both in terms of sound and imagery.

ifitbeyourwill S03 E21 • Fanclubwallet

fanclubwallet.com

Ottawa's rising indie rock project, fanclubwallet, is the brainchild of singer-songwriter Hannah Judge. Her music blends relatable coming-of-age stories with a vibrant and catchy sound. Originally a solo bedroom pop act, fanclubwallet has recently evolved into a full band, bringing a fresh energy to their live performances and latest EP, "Our Bodies Paint Traffic Lines.” Enjoy 🎙️ 

ifitbeyourwill S03 E20 • Max Blansjaar

Max Blansjaar is an indie pop artist whose music blends catchy melodies with fun lyrics. He started out as a classically trained pianist, but now crafts lo-fi pop tunes. His debut LP, "False Comforts," explores themes of feeling like an outsider and navigating the complexities of life. Blansjaar draws inspiration from his move from Amsterdam to Oxford and then Brooklyn and back again, infusing his sound with a unique perspective. Produced by Katie von Schleicher and Nate Mendelsohn, who helped Max realize "to get straightforward. Stop chasing complexity and Follow Your Nose! Amongst others I owe a debt of gratitude to The Velvet Underground and to Elephant 6 for teaching me the power of the harmonically simple, to Beck and to Cate Le Bon for lyrical inspiration.” Enjoy 🎙️ 

linktr.ee/maxblansjaar

ifitbeyourwill S03 E19 • Longwave

Steve Schiltz, the enigmatic force behind Longwave's mesmerizing melodies, navigates the sonic landscape with the finesse of a seasoned voyager. With each chord he strums and every lyric he pens, Schiltz crafts an auditory odyssey that transcends time and space, beckoning listeners into a realm where introspection intertwines with euphoria. His musical prowess, honed over years of dedication, is a testament to the transformative power of artistry.  Longwave just re-released their 20 year old classic, The Strangest Things with a one time show at the Bowery Ballroom. Steve is currently touring with Blue October. Enjoy 🎙️ 

Longwave formed at the dawn of the New York indie rock resurgence in 1999. The Brooklyn-based band’s first release was the indie distributed Endsongs.

The band then signed to RCA Records where it released the Dave Fridmann-produced The Strangest Things. Longwave followed up with an EP, Life Of The Party, which was produced by Fridmann and future producer of The National, Peter Katis. The band would enlist John Leckie (Radiohead, XTC, and Stone Roses) to helm the production for the full length a There’s A Fire. In 2008 Longwave released Secrets Are Sinister, which Katis produced, through Original Signal Recordings.

https://www.longwavetheband.com/

ifitbeyourwill S03 E18 • Call Me Spinster

Sisters Rosalie, Rachel, and Amelia formed the trio, whose individual talents converge into a harmonious whole, Call Me Spinster. Together, they create an alchemy of sound that is both evocative and empowering, inviting audiences to embark on a  journey that transcends boundaries and resonates on a deeply personal level. Call Me Spinster showcases a profound commitment to artistic exploration and authenticity. Their music is a reflection of life’s many family complexities, offering solace, inspiration, and a sense of connection in a world that often feels fragmented and chaotic. Enjoy 🎙️ 

Call Me Spinster

Potholes was recorded in the vaunted studios of Chase Park Transduction in Athens, Georgia where Call Me Spinster teamed again with Drew Vandenberg to co-produce and engineer the record. Base tracks were recorded live as much as possible, pulling in JoJo Glidewell (of Montreal, Modern Skirts) on keyboards and piano. Countless harmonies and overdubs were recorded in Rachel’s Chattanooga bedroom, synth or solo ideas passed back and forth between band members, Glidewell, Vandenberg, and pedal steelist Matt ‘Pistol’ Stoessel.

The result is a truly unusual concoction, swirling around familiar sounds but always landing slightly askew of expected territory. The first track “Feet Are Dirty” nods to Robyn and ‘90s synth pop but with a post-punk plainness that is both wistful and honest and entirely its own brand. The second track, “Married,” trades in Rosie on lead vocals in a dreamy, almost psychedelic offering, with moments of Minnie Riperton-era Rotary Connection and Air. Other songs like “White Lines” dip into the realm of country - folk, but in an unusually understated, anti-Nashville style, pedal steel or accordion pinging nostalgia but staying out of the way. “Born in a Ditch” is a doo-op era banger, but like their effervescent first single, “Here You Are,” moves outside the trope with an unexpected twang and in this case, trumpet by Wave Magnetik. Alex Behles

ifitbeyourwill S03 E17 • Red Pants

On the latest episode, Jason E. Lambeth of Red Pants from Madison, Wisconsin shared how the presence of his children has influenced his approach to music, leading him to cherish the short moments he has to create, often finding inspiration from magazines  from different eras. When I asked about his spectacular cover art, he emphasized the element of chance in his work, stating that the final result often depends on what he finds. And for all those Red pants fans out there, Jason and bandmate Elsa Nekola are getting back into writing mode, aiming to release another album next year. WooHoo! Enjoy 🎙️ 

Waves of static guitar sounds, spirited pattering of drums, pensive keyboard drones, and intimately whispered vocal melodies make up the noisy indie rock of Red Pants’ “Not Quite There Yet”. The music seems to fit perfectly into the visual world that exists around Red Pants: vibrantly colored nostalgia collages, pen and ink portraits showing domestic scenes, and slightly silly stop-motion videos. There’s a kind of homely wonder to the work that is then countered by a splash of color or a subject with two sets of eyes. Like the visual art, the music washes fuzzy guitar tones next to moments of sonic destruction and pairs it all with catchy pop murmurs. BUY

jasonelambeth.com | elsanekola.com

ifitbeyourwill S03 E16 • Magana

I'm thrilled to share the exciting news about Magana's upcoming album release on the latest episode of ititbeyourwill Podcast! 'Teeth,' the second album from Magana, is set to be launched on March 25th, perfectly timed to coincide with the peak illumination of the Worm Moon. This highly anticipated record will be available through Audio Antihero Records. Magana, the solo project of talented multi-instrumentalist Jeni Magaña, has been making waves in the music scene in recent years. With a unique blend of creativity and passion, Magana's music is sure to captivate audiences far and wide with her “Witchy Rock” for the masses. Enjoy 🎙️

https://linktr.ee/maganarama

The sound of late-night

emotional fragility writ

large...Recalling Torres and

Sharon Van Etten at their

most intimate moments…

Magana’s parched vocal is

a complete heartbreaker.”

– The Line of Best Fit

“Through music, I have

learned the shape of

desire – contoured and

faceted, with the texture

of velvet and the sheen of

spilt oil on the blacktop. In

Magana I feel it again.” -

Collapse Board

"Feels expansive and

breathlessly travelled." –

Gold Flake Paint

ifthisbeyourwill S03 E15 • Shaina Hayes

Raised in Shigawake, in the Gaspésie region of Québec, Shaina Hayes grew up listening to singer-songwriters like Feist, Joni Mitchell and Regina Spektor, traditional country artists such as Hank Williams and Dolly Parton, and modern country stars, including Shania Twain and The Chicks. After studying agricultural sciences at McGill University in Montreal, she returned to her rural hometown and began recording and co-producing her self-released debut album, to coax a waltz, which came out in April 2022. Bohsound

On her latest release, Kindergarten Heart, Shania lays down indie folk pop melodies that support her explorations of nature and her connection to it! It was a great conversation, sure to warm the soul and touch the heart. Enjoy 🎙️ 
https://shainahayes.bandcamp.com/ 

ifitbeyourwill S03 E14 • Olivia Nowadays

Olivia Nowadays, the talented musicians Kent Carson and Evan King, recently joined  ifitbeyourwill Podcast for an engaging conversation about their musical journey. The podcast delved into their inspirations, creative process, and the stories behind their captivating songs. Listeners were treated to insights into Olivia Nowadays unique approach to music-making and how they navigates the ever-evolving music industry. Their passion for storytelling through music shone brightly during the podcast as they shared anecdotes and experiences that have shaped their artistry. Enjoy 🎙️

http://www.michirecords.com/artists/olivia-nowadays/

TSDEATTOTP is Olivia at our most maximalist, merging sparkling instrumentation, candid field recordings, and frequent experimentation into sonically dense songs that evoke a sense of melancholy and wonder. The soaring shoegaze track “Be Right Back” recalls the abrupt loss of a loved one, opening with a poignant field recording of Merlin the lonely parrot muttering to himself in a room. A swirl of uncanny voices coaxed from a glitchy machine learning model features on “New Philosophy”, which paints a wry art-pop portrait of a listless urbanite inspecting a past iteration of himself. The hazy, stuttery slowcore of “First Trauma” reflects on generational wounds and anhedonia, bearing a message from the past to a grown child: “making choices makes you.” Woven through each of the album’s eleven songs is a distinct sense of someone approaching the border of their understanding, in hesitation of what they may find on the other side.

ifitbeyourwill S03 E13 • Strawberry Runners

https://linktr.ee/strawberryrunners

The music of singer songwriter Emi Night, aka Strawberry Runners is characterized by its dreamy and introspective melodies, often accompanied by gleeful guitar work and grounded vocals. Their lyrics delve into themes of self-discovery, love, and navigating the complexities of human relationships. With a unique blend of indie pop and folk influences, Strawberry Runners creates a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshing. Check out their latest self-titled record and if you’re in the UK a tour is happening as this is published. Enjoy 🎙️