THE WALTERS: INTERVIEW

August 31, 2023

by alex grainger

Platinum selling indie-pop band The Walters recently released their breezy pop anthem “Stuck In My Ways.” Sonically, The Walters are anything but stuck, as this track challenged the band to experiment with new pop rhythms all while keeping the vintage Walters sound fans have been hanging onto since 2014.

Arm wrestling and potato sack racing to the funky beat, the music video transports us back to moments of pure childhood fun through field day activities. The eclectic group of participants who are all stuck in their ways lean into a healthy bit of competition to work through their troubles.

“Stuck In My Ways” is The Walters latest installment since returning from hiatus after their hit single “I Love You So” became a viral sensation. Their highly anticipated return has been fueled by their EP Try Again and the band is back in the studio working on their first full length album. Read more about “Stuck In My Ways” and The Walters below!

There’s a certain degree of self-awareness in “Stuck In My Ways” as it’s inspired by your daily actions that ultimately get you in trouble with your partner. Can you tell us a little bit more about this story?

The Walters: “It really is the same old story of repeating the same actions that get you in trouble with your partner. We all say we want to change for the better but getting there has many setbacks.”

Having come off hiatus after “I Love You So” went viral in 2021, now with your 2022 EP Try Again under your belt, what was it like getting back in the studio to create “Stuck In My Ways?”

The Walters: “We had a good time working on the tune. It’s a bit different from the songs we’ve made in the past so it was refreshing for us creatively. You never wanna feel boxed in as artists and I think this was a song that helped us see that more clearly.”

How do you feel the light and breezy layered sound created for “Stuck In My Ways” drives its narrative?

The Walters: “The track draws from more pop centric beats, think Calvin Harris. Our bass player Danny and drummer Charlie had a lot to do with this tune sonically. They led the creative path for us on this one and you can feel that summer dance vibe in there.”

How does “Stuck In My Ways” represent who you are as a band in this moment? How does this track show your growth as a band from 2014 to now?

The Walters: “The track is showcasing us in a different light. It still feels vintage Walters, but sonically there is an element of modern pop that we haven’t really done before. I think we’re at this point where we want to challenge ourselves and really see what tunes we’re capable of making together but still holding the basic qualities of why fans have been drawn to us from the beginning.”

Reflecting on the creative process, did “Stuck In My Ways” teach you anything about how to handle troubles with you partner? Did you find you planned to change your ways, compromise, stay the same, or just move on?

The Walters: “I think writing songs like this that your partner knows about your situation is always kind of therapeutic as long as you’re on the course of betterment. A song won’t fix all your problems but it can be a gentle reminder that you’re willing to work to be a better partner.”

The music video takes us all back to our childhood with the iconic field day events. What was the inspiration behind the field day narrative of the video?

The Walters: “We thought it would be fun to bring in the different characters instead of having it just be about a couple’s relationship. It was really cool casting actors and assigning various roles. Everybody likes a good old fashioned field day and that’s what we tried to accomplish with the video. Light hearted, fun.”

We see the competition in this music video to be an ex-lover, old nanny, high school wrestling coach, and a landlord. Why did you choose each of these characters? How do they work into the overall story of “Stuck In My Ways?”

The Walters: “We came up with the characters by throwing ideas around with each other on what we thought could be funny. They all fit into the narrative because there is a problem that has existed with each of them and they’ve been ‘stuck’ in it.”

Were the outcomes of each field day event scripted or was everyone truly trying in each competition? Was there one event which was the most fun to compete in and film? Out of the four of you who is the most competitive?

The Walters: “There were some things that were scripted and others that we just freestyled. The most fun was probably the arm wrestling between Walter and Rex. The most competitive in the group would most likely be Luke.”

We heard you’re gearing up for your first full length album. Can you tell us a little about what you ultimately hope the album will be?

The Walters: “We’re working on an album that we’re really excited about. It has a little bit of everything that we like. We’ve never put out a full length album before so this is a big deal for us and we wanna make sure it lives up to what we’ve always envisioned it to be.”

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ISABEL DUMAA: INTERVIEW

August 28, 2023

by martina rexrode

Isabel Dumaa couldn't find a song that described the way she was feeling in a relationship, so she wrote one herself. After writing songs in her journal from the time she was in elementary school, Dumaa's style has evolved while also staying rooted in those first pages. Her most recent single “Always Leaving You” is a fresh take on the typical break-up song, taking the perspective of someone who is trying to figure out how to make a relationship work even if they might be the reason it won't. Keep up with future releases from Dumaa on social media and learn more about her in our conversation below!

Congratulations on “Always Leaving You!” How does it feel to have your fourth single out in the world?

Isabel: “It is honestly hard to find the words to describe the feeling of releasing your music to the world. The butterflies and excitement as well as fear is the same every time whether it's your first single or your most recent. I feel so lucky and grateful to everyone around me as well as my fans for allowing me to do what I love to do!”

Do you notice any differences between this release and the other three in terms of the process, subject matter, or public reception?

Isabel: “This release was a little different for a few reasons. First, more writers and producers were involved. I tend to write most of my songs along with the help of a producer and maybe one other writer, but ‘Always Leaving You’ had six people involved, which I know for some people is nothing, but for me that was a lot. The song is also more upbeat than my previous singles so it's interesting to see some people really gravitating towards it, while others prefer a little more of the laid back vibe.”

This single is written from the perspective of someone who admits to being the problem in their own relationship. What made you take this unique perspective?

Isabel: “I chose this perspective because it is one I relate to [laughs]. I also think it is a really common phenomenon to be in a relationship you want to want to be in, but it just isn’t working. I remember when I was going through the breakup that inspired ‘Always Leaving You,’ I wasn’t able to find any songs that really encapsulated how I was feeling, so I decided to write it myself.”

Can listeners expect a music video? If so, is there anything you can tell us about it?

Isabel: “Sadly for this song there is no video planned, but keep your eyes peeled for more in the future!”

Even from just four songs, you already have such a distinct production and lyrical style. How has this style evolved since you first began writing songs when you were in elementary school?

Isabel: “I feel as though an artist's sound changes about as much as they do. People change all the time, but I’ve always found that — most of the time — at our core we stay the same. So even as my sound may change throughout the years, at the end of the day it is always coming from me, so there will always be a common thread.”

Which artists, peers, or writers are you most inspired by?

Isabel: “I am inspired by so many people, things, places it is hard to choose just a few, but some of my current inspirations are Taylor Swift, Noah Kahan, Wet Leg, and Maisie Peters.”

What is the biggest goal that comes to mind when you think about your career?

Isabel: “I just hope to be able to connect with people through my music. I want to write songs that can make someone feel just a little less alone, or give them a reason to dance.”

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'CALLED UPON' / NEPTUNE'S CORE: REVIEW

August 25, 2023

by isabel dowell

With glowing praise from some of Chicago’s highest news outlets, Neptune’s Core is taking over the Chicago music scene one track at a time. These two sets of sisters — Sofie Richter (vocals/guitar), Hannah Richter (bass), Jackie Cywinski (guitar/vocals), Kaitlin Cywinski (drums) — have just released their forthcoming EP, Called Upon. As Jackie Cynwinski puts it, “Called Upon is a beautifully diverse EP that truly shows how we work together in order to make music that is alive. The parts all four of us play separately naturally intertwine into unique, dynamic songs that we are extremely proud of.”

Being noted as a powerful representation of who the band is today, both as people and as musicians, Called Upon will be their first release in almost two years. A collection for growth, pain, joy, and everything in between, Neptune’s Core is ready to show the world what they are made of.

“Inside” and “Unloved” gave listeners a first look into the new era for Neptune’s Core and are praised for their booming basslines and shimmery guitar riffs, as well as soaring vocals and crashing drums. Their experimentation has turned the heads of music lovers everywhere, proving that Neptune’s Core is not afraid of challenging the norm of what girls in music can do.

The remaining four tracks, “Mermaid Song,” “A Widow’s Tune,” “Bunga,” and “Why?,” are all unique in their own ways. “Mermaid Song” is a slow and eerie, yet beautiful melody. With no vocals, this instrumental grasps your heart and ignites your brain into listening further. “A Widow’s Tune” starts immediately with delicate lyrics and provides sharp imagery that reads like poetry. “Bunga” is one I was most excited to hear for the first time, curious about the track by its name alone. It’s one of the more explosive tracks on Called Upon and definitely marked itself as my favorite song from Neptune’s Core. The words are devastating, but in the most truthful and honest of ways. “Why?” brings the EP to a perfect conclusion. Its echoing and repetitive nature will bring shivers down your spine. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Neptune’s Core or this EP is your first look into your music, we can both agree that this band is exactly what the rock music scene needs more of.

Called Upon (EP) Tracklisting:

01. Inside

02. Mermaid Song

03. A Widow’s Tune

04. Unloved

05. Bunga

06. Why?

Called Upon adds a new era of sound to Neptune’s Core’s already impressive list of previous releases. They’ve shared stages with Chicago favorites such as Dehd, Bunny, and Friko, and are destined to make themselves known on even larger star-studded bills with this latest release. The confidence and emotion of these sisters radiates from these six tracks, leaving you hungry for more. While these women have become a fixture in Chicago’s rock landscape, I guarantee they will be taking over the rock scene very soon.

Called Upon is out now and available on all streaming platforms! Neptune’s Core is ready for you to hear what they’ve been working on for the past two years and to show you exactly where their talents lie.

TAELA: INTERVIEW

August 25, 2023

by martina rexrode

TAELA is an artist who is unapologetic in how she feels her emotions, no matter how big or overwhelming. Born and raised in Missouri, TAELA has been striving to create music that people can feel in their souls since she saw her mom lose herself in Joss Stone songs when she was younger. Her latest single “beetlejuice (dead to me)” is another step on that journey with a music video to go along with it. We talked with TAELA about this single and the fantastical inspiration behind it as well as her goals and the evolution of her style.

It’s probably pretty obvious from the, title but tell us about the inspiration behind your latest single “beetlejuice (dead to me).”

TAELA: “A couple months ago I had a dinner reservation at the Tim Burton restaurant Beetle House and I was so excited to go. I was in a studio session a couple hours before the reservation when I got a call saying the kitchen had flooded so they had to close it down. I was so bummed out and couldn’t stay focused during my writing, so I decided to pivot and challenge myself to write a Tim Burton inspired song. Beetlejuice is my favorite movie, I couldn’t stop thinking about the scene where he says, ‘I’m tellin’ ya, honey, she meant nothing to me! Nothing at all!’ And the lyrics just started flowing.”

Did the idea of comparing a line by Beetlejuice to a specific type of ex in a relationship come fairly quickly to you? What was the writing process like?

TAELA: “I had been wanting to write a song about an ex trying to crawl out of their grave for a while. Comparing my toxic ex to a ghost that’s trying to haunt me really helped me move on. I knew I needed to put that concept into lyrics and share it with the world.”

Have you been inspired by movies and other media for songs in the past or is this the first time you’ve brought something like this to life?

TAELA: “This is the first time! I definitely feel like I’ve unlocked something now, though. I’m sure more movie inspired songs will be happening in the future.”

Who do you hope to reach with this single?

TAELA: “Anyone who needs to cut ties with somebody who brings darkness into their life. Whether it’s a family member, friend, ex, coworker. I hope whoever needs it is able to listen to this song and quit giving their past opportunities to hurt them.”

How does it feel to have “beetlejuice (dead to me)” out in the world along with the music video?

TAELA: “It feels amazing! Like the start of a new era.”

Has your personal style evolved since the start of your career? Do you find your personal style bleeding into your musical sound or vice versa?

TAELA: “It’s evolved so much. I used to be so scared of my sexier, feminine side. I didn’t know how to find a balance between that and the tomboy/emo style I’ve always had — I didn’t think it was even allowed to be both. It’s definitely bled into my musical sound! I really feel like my music fully represents exactly who I am now which is really incredible.”

Who are some of your favorite badass artists from the past or making music today?

TAELA: “Joss Stone will always be my favorite artist. She went against the grain and wrote about really uncomfortable but important topics when that wasn’t really a thing and I’m forever inspired. Sleep Token is 100% my favorite band! I listen to them every day. Addicted.”

What is the biggest goal you hope to achieve from here?

TAELA: “My main goal with all of this is to tell my story exactly how it is and reach people who need to hear it. I just want to be a safe place for people to feel things.”

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LILA HOLLER: INTERVIEW

August 24, 2023

by martina rexrode

“Up&Out,” the debut single from Lila Holler, is a fresh entry into the growing field of melancholic music by young artists. Tapping into raw emotions like heartache and the value of friendship, Holler’s lyrics are guaranteed to resonate with listeners no matter what you’re feeling. We were lucky enough to talk to Holler about the feeling of releasing their first song, the process of creating the music video, and their biggest career dreams.

Congratulations on your debut single “Up&Out” and the music video! Can you try to put into words how it feels to officially release your first song?

Lila: “Thank you so much, and gosh I feel like everything I have ever done has been leading up to this release. As a perfectionist I've feared releasing my music for so long, but ‘Up&Out’ felt like a very special song since the moment I wrote it, which is how I knew it had to be my first release. The support I have gotten from the people who have listened has been so lovely, and far beyond what I was expecting. Overall my heart feels full of gratitude.”

How long have you been working on this song?

Lila: “I actually just wrote this song at the start of this summer. It took a few weeks after I wrote it to polish, record, and then send to my lovely producer Jessica Taylor to build the tracks, mix, and master.”

What was the writing/production process like?

Lila: “I wrote ‘Up&Out’ alone in my bedroom, as I do with most of my songs. When I wrote it I had already started working on the EP, and really had no intentions of adding a fourth song. But this one flew right out of me in just a matter of minutes. The structure changed a lot as I was writing, but the words fell into play pretty quickly. I knew it had to go on the EP because when I finished and was looking down at the lyrics I knew every last word was exactly how I felt.”

Are you a fan of any specific artists’ music videos? Did you take inspiration from them or find that in other forms of media (film, TV, literature, etc.)?

Lila: “Yes! The inspiration for the ‘Up&Out’ music video aesthetics was the 2006 Marie Antoinette film directed by Sofia Coppola. My close friend and creative partner Emma Miszewski and I had already had the idea to do a wreck room for the music video, but we knew we had to have some sort of twist. I am really inspired by the Rococo era’s colors, textures, fashion, and architecture. The ‘Up&Out’ music video really was the basis for building a color palette for the EP.”

What was it like to film a music video like this with such an intimate team?

Lila: “It was honestly super efficient. Emma Miszewski who directed the music video is a super close friend of mine, and that definitely aided the process. Emma had a clear understanding of my vision, and is an absolute visionary when it comes to film and music. They are able to organize and plan with amazing attention to detail after studying the references carefully. I really could not have done any of this without them and I will never stop singing their praise! The shoot only took one day to do, as a lot of the preparation was just building the set (which was actually all done in my garage).”

You also announced that your debut EP will be released on August 31st! What can listeners expect from the additional three songs?

Lila: “The additional songs are some of the most personal songs I have ever written. Exploring themes of growing up, codependency, religion, and much more — all three songs are very dear to my heart. There are some really nice consistencies in the production of all four songs that makes it feel like a unified body of work. The final and title track of the EP ‘Worth it Soon’ is what I am most excited for people to hear. It is the most deeply personal thing I have ever written, as the song takes you through lessons from my entire life verse by verse.”

Will there be music videos for these songs?

Lila: “Yes! The first track ‘Intimacy’ has a beautiful music video that was animated by a good friend of mine, Marley Wingfield. She has a very distinct art style that I just adore, and she was able to capture the essence of the song perfectly in her animations. The final track ‘Worth it Soon”’ also has a music video/visualizer coming with it. Lots of home videos and nostalgia that I’m very excited for everyone to relive with me!”

How have opportunities like attending Grammy Camp and winning the National Young Arts Competition prepared you for a career in this industry?

Lila: “I have learned so much from the opportunities I have had so far. With songwriting there is really no better experience than just going out and doing it, but even so what has been most valuable to me is the people I have met. Through Grammy Camp and Young Arts, I have made long term writing partners and friends. There are so many people I have come across that have inspired and changed my music forever. I am so grateful for those opportunities for teaching me how to network with other artists because it has been invaluable.”

Let’s end by thinking big. Where do you see yourself and your music in a few years?

Lila: “My biggest dream is to be a touring musician. The most magical part of all of this for me is the live performances. Connecting to a room full of people through my songs has always been so rewarding, and I truly believe performing is my purpose. In a few years I hope I am able to be recording even more music, and touring for future projects!”

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