Urban Hits Magazine | Interviews

INTERVIEWS

Urban Hits Interview With Rock Artist Meditative Animal

Meet Meditative Animal

Meditative Animal is a rock and alternative artist based in Berwick Maine, New England. He recently released new singles"Echoes Left In My Head" and "Telescope Eyes" which are receiving radio plays in various cities in the United States.

Get to know more about Meditative Animal

How would you describe your sound?

In terms of genres I think of it as mostly indie alternative singer-songwriter folk rock, with some blues, hip hop, jazz, reggae and funk influences. My favorite description of it was by my cousin in-law, though. He said it has a timeless original sound, which I think is pretty on point. There’s also a bit of variety from song to song, with some songs being folkier or funkier than others. In some parts and songs my vocal delivery is more hip hop inspired, but in other parts I’m straight singing instead of speaking in key.

Who are some of your musical influences?

I was raised on classic rock like Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, The Allman Brothers, and James Taylor. My dad actually used to sing me the song Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd as a lullabye when I was real young. In high school I got into the 90’s grunge and alternative scene like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, and was also really into Sublime. Then I started getting into jam bands like The Grateful Dead and Strangefolk, and also into hip hop more, like Black Star, The Beastie Boys, and Jurassic 5. I also like jazz like Medeski Martin and Wood, and John Scofield. For reggae, Bob Marley and Peter Tosh influenced me, and funk influences include James Brown and Deep Banana Blackout. I have also been influenced by Ben Harper, The Black Crowes, G. Love, Dispatch, and Jack Johnson.

Talk about the story behind your song “Telescope Eyes”

I was raised in a Christian family but was a self described atheist with an interest in science growing up. In college I had a bit of a spiritual awakening and started re-examining what science and religion had to say and offer. I have spent a long time meditating on and reading about science and religion, and had some questions and insights that I felt could resonate with a lot of people, so I wrote a song. The first version of the two on the album isn’t as optimistic or uplifting, but provides a more down to earth, skeptic type of perspective on the same topic. The reprise has been getting played on the radio so far, and that is the version of the lyrics that I usually perform live now. The chorus is a triple entendre, referencing astronomy, astrology, and religion. I tried to examine both sides of the coin and leave some things unknown with my lyrics, because I felt that it reflected the subject matter.

What is it about the song that fans are connecting to?

I think I try to provide some important questions and answers about a hard topic, and people can relate to the lyrics. I also tried to be somewhat poetic and vague to avoid being preachy and let the listeners relate to it in their own personal ways too. Maybe some of them like the poetically conscious, meaningful lyrics in a sea of shallow, materialistic lyrics they hear in pop culture. I also think the song says a lot without having to say much, so some people like that it’s potent and universal. Plus Chris Plummer’s instrumentals are pretty cool and definitely help add to the vibe.

How does the video for “Telescope Eyes ” play into the message of the song?

Well, the only video I have currently for Telescope Eyes is a solo performance from a festival on my YouTube channel. I guess it’s just my perspective that I have to offer the world with this song, so the solo live aspect of it is a bit symbolically appropriate to an extent. Plus, in the stripped down arrangement maybe more emphasis is put on the words and their meanings. I might like to do a concept video for this one eventually, though, with some more imagery and style.

How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

I am basically at least one of my own producers, with some say in the production of all my songs, though the other musicians I work with compose their own parts. I know some people who are better at recording software and audio technicalities who help me with recordings sometimes, but my ear plays a major role in the adjustments and tweaking. Chris Plummer and my brother John Dixon Mirisola co-produced the songs they were involved in, and for my next album Mitchell Parker will be helping me to co-produce. The first album, Philosophical Gear, was produced entirely in home studios by the musicians I worked with and I, and then mastered by professional expert Phillip Klum at Phillip Klum Mastering, Inc.

What can fans expect from a live Meditative Animal performance?

First of all, I usually don’t play a song exactly the same twice, note for note, through and through. So there will be some improvisation to keep it interesting and fresh, too. Secondly, I’m kind of like a not-so-solo solo artist, so I could be by myself, or accompanied by different musicians at different times. Sometimes I will play a stripped down version if I’m solo, or maybe some longer instrumental jam sections could be part of a live performance with accompaniment, too.

Will there be an EP or album coming out soon?

I’m currently working on my next album release, Social Gravity, which will hopefully be coming out either in the summer or next fall. I may release an EP of several of the album’s songs in the summer, and then the full length album in the fall. There are already some demos and raw recordings online from the next album.

Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

I’m psyched to be working a lot with my brother John on my next album actually, because we have a great natural chemistry. In terms of people I haven’t worked with, I would love to collaborate with Ben Harper, Jack Johnson, G. Love, Jewel, Tim Reynolds, Victor Wooten, John Scofield, or Jurassic 5.

What can fans do to help promote your music?

They can share it on social media, show their friends and families the tunes, make requests at radio stations, and buy songs or the album.

You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

It’s a great way for me to share the latest news and tunes with fans. Sometimes I do free downloads of songs and post alternate versions of songs that I share on social media. I also provide a little personal commentary and cool links to meditation and consciousness geared topics from time to time, so fans can get to know me a little better, and maybe themselves and the human condition a bit too.

What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

Thank you so much, from the bottom of my heart, for any and all support! I hope I have provided you with something worthwhile and enjoyable. I wish you all peace, love, and happiness. You are all in my prayers and thoughts. Rock on!

Where can fans find you online or on social media?

My official website:

www.MeditativeAnimal.com

Facebook:

www.facebook.com/MeditativeAnimal

Twitter:

www.twitter.com/MeditativeAniml

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmtN5I62YJsamuQbCXHxKxg

SoundCloud:

www.soundcloud.com/MeditativeAnimal

An Interview With Pop Singer, SKYLER On Her Latest Single 'Carnival ...

Learn more about Skyler in the following All Access interview:

Thanks for your time today! How has 2017 been treating you? Musically, did you approach this year any differently than you did last year?

I have had an amazing 2017 so far with the release of my new song “Carnival.” I came into this year just knowing I had to start writing a bunch of songs for an EP that should be out end of year 2017.

Where does this interview find you today? Is there music playing in the background? If so, what is it? What kind of music do you listen to when you are working? What music gets you instantly out of a bad mood?

Right now I am sitting on the roof of my building in Hollywood, California listening to “Happier” by Ed Sheeren who is one of my favorite artists to listen to at anytime since his voice always makes me smile.

Growing up, have you always wanted to be a musician? Can you recall your earliest musical memory?

I grew up being on stage as my dad is a singer back in my hometown of Virginia Beach, Virginia so from a very young age I knew that was what I wanted to do as well. I remember singing “Old Time Rock n Roll” by Bob Seger on stage with my dad at only3 years old.

If you weren’t a musician today, what else could you see yourself doing?

I think if I wasn’t doing music I would be studying to be a teacher in the Peace Corps as I love shaping the minds of children.

I always like to ask artists about where they came from and how that city or town has influenced them as an artist now. So how do you think your home of LA has affected who you are as a musician and the art that you create? Do you ever get to travel to England where you have family roots?

I was born in Norfolk, Virginia and lived there most of my life hearing my dad singing rock music on stage and even singing it with him sometimes, listening to country music while working on a farm, and even hearing pop music from my friends in the car definitely shaped how I write and sing music now. Being in LA gives me a lot of inspiration for songs since it is a city full of many different types of people and so many different experiences. I love going to see my family and friends over in England as well, they always make me laugh so much it’s definitely good to get away from everything for a little bit and have a little vacation.

Let’s talk about your newest single called “Carnival”. Where did the inspiration for this track come from?

The inspiration behind “Carnival” is from seeing cute couples holding hands or winning teddy bears for each other etc. at the local carnival I used to go to growing up. As a little kid I couldn’t wait to grow up so I could experience that kind of thing and that is where the main idea of “Carnival” came from.

What was it like working with the 2016 American Idol Finalist MacKenzie Bourg on it? How did the relationship first come to be?

Working with MacKenzie was absolutely amazing, he has an incredible voice that fit the song perfectly. I remember getting a call from my PR company one day saying they knew the perfect person for the song and asked me if I knew who MacKenzie Bourg was. Once I told them that I did they told me I could work with him on it and after hearing his voice when he sang on American Idol I knew the song was gonna be great.

What did it mean to you to be able to have Randy Jackson executive produce your upcoming EP and also work with producer DK too? Was it intimidating at all?

Working with such amazing people like DK and Randy Jackson was just an insane experience that all still feels a bit like a dream, I do I have to admit I was a little intimidated at first but they are such kind hearted and welcoming people that within a few minutes I felt super comfortable.

What’s it been like staying connected on your social media pages? What do you think of it all? What’s it been like for you keeping them all updated and current?

I can’t lie and say I am good when it comes to social media because I’m not. I get very busy writing and kinda get in my own little world where social media isn’t a thing, I do love being able to talk to the fans though, they make me feel so proud of everything I have done and I can’t ever thank them enough for their support.

How do you think that being a musician has helped you live your best life? Can you talk about the joy that it brings you today?

Music really is my life whether it’s my best or worst it is my life, I live, breathe, and sleep music. I don’t think I would survive in a world without music, it’s one of the most important things to me.

What are your plans for the rest of the summer?

Well my summer plans mostly consist of writing, spending time with my friends at the beach, writing some more, more time at the beach, then writing again.

Who are some of your very favorite artists or rather, what musicians have continued to inspire you and your music?

That is a very hard question and I don’t think I could really pick out just a few but I will try my best. Ed Sheeran, Miranda Lambert, Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, Shawn Mendes and James Arthur are some of my favorite artists that inspire me everyday.

What musicians would you absolutely love to work with in the future?

Shawn Mendes is someone I would love to work with along with Ed Sheeran as they both have some of the most amazing writing styles and voices.

What do you hope is the message of your music? What do you hope people continue to take away from your songs?

I hope people just see that I understand them whether they are going through, have been through or is going to go through the same things that I have, I hope they see that I know what it’s like as well and that it is going to be ok no matter what you can make it. Being in and getting into the music industry can be really hard and there is always going to be those people that try and tell you that you can’t make it. You have to remember that person isn’t you so they don’t know what you can or can’t do with your life, so don’t let them bring you down or stop doing something you love and you believe your good at because what you think about yourself is the only thing that matters.

Is there anything else that you would like to share with our readers about yourself or your music?

Just remember if you are ever going through something and think that no one cares, I do and my DMs are always open if anyone ever needs someone to listen, Instagram and Twitter are @skylersmusic

About the Author

Leah Brungardt (recently married) joined All Access Music Group in August 2011 and has been enjoying getting to know a new side of the music industry ever since. Having worked to promote radio stations in the past, seeing what makes a successful radio hit has been a thrill. As a lover of all genres of music, working at All Access Music Group is a perfect fit for Leah, and she loves learning about up and coming musicians as well. Most of her friends have come to rely on her for new music. Leah grew up overseas attending American international schools and attended The University of Arizona, where she earned a BA in Music Management. She roots for the Wildcats every chance she gets. Leah has been able to work at a variety of music-related jobs including several internships at small independent labels, ClearChannel Radio and Journal Broadcasting Group. She also spent time working retail at a store that specializes in vinyl, which was a lot of fun for her. Her favorite movie is Empire Records, so that makes perfect sense.

SESSIONS, LESSONS EARNED, LEARNED: MINDI ABAIR AND THE BONESHAKERS SHAKE, RATTLE WITH SOUL ON THE EASTWEST SESSIONS

An Interview With the Psycheldelic Rockers SPACE4LEASE!

An Interview With The Canadian Rock Revival Folk Artist, DAVID MYLES On His Forthcoming First Fully Electric Album, ‘Real Love’!

An Interview With The Bi-Coastal Group, FAULKNER, On New Music, Working With Their Producers and More!

An Interview With the Groove-Indie Rock Quartet, FORMER FACES!

An Interview with South Maine, About His Debut Single "Money In The Trap"

Meet Southmaine

He recently released his debut single "Money In The Trap" . He is based in Hope,Arkansas and is signed under BandGang Records which is an Imprint of Universal Music Group

Learn more about Southmaine in the following interview

How would you describe your sound?

I describe my sound as very unique passive aggressive and southern.

Who are some of your musical influences?

My influences are the likes of T.I. Young Jeezy,Jay-Z,Diddy,Yo-Gotti,Rick Ross just to name a few.

Talk about the story behind your song “Money In The Trap”

Money In The Trap is a record that talks about the hustle whatever it may be,but for me I came from the hustle I really lived in the life so I gave briefs regarding my past.

How does the video for “Money In The Trap ” play into the message of the song?

The video is kind of details the street life the blocks that I roamed and how it ultimately came to a end.

How much of a hand do you have in the production of your music?

I’m hands on with everything that I do.I trust the producer I work with and the overall sound of the record just comes from the chemistry amongst the two of us.

What can fans expect from a live South Maine performance?

Fans can always expect an all out performance I mean I transform when I’m on stage.

Will there be an EP or album coming out soon?

Yes there’s an E.P and album coming later in the year,But right now we’re focused on the single Money In The Trap which is out as of Friday January 19th.

Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

Bryson Tiller or August Alsina I’m big on R&B.

What can fans do to help promote your music?

Fans can post the cover as profile pictures as I have,refer their friends to iTunes Spotify etc to stream or purchase the record.

You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

Social Media is the closest way to be up close and personal with me if we’re not in person.I’m a open book I don’t shy away from anything.

What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

I thank each and everyone of you that rocks with me through all of this.I trust my process and trust that y’all will continue to help me become the artist I believe I’m supposed to be.Without the love of the fans there’s no South-Maine.