if it be your will: retro indie

Mar 11, 2025

ifitbeyourwill S05E03 • Zack Keim

Returning guest Zack Keim takes us behind the scenes of his stunning sophomore album "Battery Lane," revealing how a street address in Bethesda, Maryland became the cornerstone of his musical reinvention. With characteristic openness, Zack shares the fascinating origin story of his hit single "Canyon" — recorded as a voice memo while delivering Uber Eats during the pandemic — and how this moment of inspiration ultimately shaped his entire album.

Our conversation explores the eight-year journey between Zack's debut album and this latest release, touching on the importance of artistic ownership in today's music industry. Having signed away his rights at just 16, Zack now approaches his career with hard-earned wisdom, maintaining control of his masters while collaborating with trusted partners like Super Sport Records for distribution.

The geographic and emotional landscapes of "Battery Lane" reveal themselves as we discuss how transition, upheaval, and personal loss influenced Zack's songwriting. From the jubilant "Canyon" to the introspective title track, each song represents a different facet of his journey through the Washington D.C. area and back to his Pittsburgh roots. Particularly moving is Zack's reflection on how his late father's musical obsession continues to fuel his own passion for creating and performing.

Throughout our discussion, Zack's DIY ethos shines through as he details booking his own tours, coordinating band members across continents, and balancing full-band performances with intimate acoustic shows. His excitement about upcoming appearances at South by Southwest and Tree Fort Music Festival, along with plans for a potential live album, demonstrates an artist hitting his stride while maintaining complete creative control.

Whether you're a musician navigating the industry's complexities or simply someone who appreciates authentic artistic expression, Zack's journey offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Listen now, then catch him on tour or pick up the vinyl at your local record store to experience "Battery Lane" in all its glory.

https://zackkeimmusic.com/

Dec 6, 2024

best of 2024 • Kelly McMichael • Bomb

Kelly McMichael is an artist and producer who makes music in St. John’s, NL. A versatile multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, McMichael has toured the country with The Burning Hell, Gentleman Reg, The Hidden Cameras and Sarah Harmer. Her solo debut 'Waves' garnered a spot on the Polaris Prize shortlist, three Music NL Awards, and the ECMA for Best Rock Album.