Born in one of the greatest eras of music, it wasn’t hard for Michael’s Statement to grow into a musician that can and often does pay homage to the ‘70s. With music that feels like a blacklight poster come to life at times, we talked about not only that – but also how his mind ponders the universe, the beauty of nature, and more like his latest release, ‘ISOLATION.’
Kendra: Where did your musical journey begin?
Michael’s Statement: Born in Germany in the mid-70s, I discovered progressive rock bands at the age of five; Genesis, Rush, Pink Floyd, ELP, Yes, and King Crimson. I also lived in Africa and there are also some world music influences in my music. I love every kind of music that translates real emotions. I like good pop music, classical, heavy metal, jazz, and more. If it´s good and when it makes me feel something I tend to like it.
Kendra: It’s been a handful of years since you released an album. When everything was said and done on ‘Silent Creatures,’ what did you want to do more or less for the next album, and do you feel you accomplished those personal musical goals with 2022’s ‘ISOLATION?’
Michael’s Statement: A lot of things happened in the last few years worldwide. Musicians and artists have had to fear for their existence because of dumb political decisions. Yes, I also lived and still have worries about the future.
I run a music school and because of covid, the school lost a lot of students. During lockdowns, I wrote and recorded the whole album, and it’s influenced by what happened all around the world. I also started a new project called “Audrey´s Dance” which is more of a kind of ambient progressive rock. The full album, ‘Ghost Town,’ was released on July 29th through all streaming services. I´m very happy with both projects because I can realize all ideas that come into my head.
Kendra: One of the tracks off ‘ISOLATION’ is “Human Reality.” It gives off this very 1970s, blacklight poster decor vibe. With that, if we were to create a blacklight poster based on this song – what imagery do you feel it’d have and why?
Michael’s Statement: You nailed it. It has really strong ‘70s vibes. I´m thinking about all those great bands from that time. You get this feeling because of the sound of the instruments you hear, Hammond organ, Mellotron, and 12-string guitar. That’s the sound of the ‘70s.
Kendra: A couple of other songs off the album caught my attention and those were “Aurora Borealis” and “Big Bang.” Are you someone who can get lost in documentaries about natural phenomena?
Michael’s Statement: When I was around five I could drive myself crazy by thinking about the universe and that there is no end…still thinking about that today.
Kendra: Side note time – with some heading Back 2 School this month, I’d love to know your favorite field trip or just school memory.
Michael’s Statement: At a young age I also lived in Yugoslavia, and loved fishing. That’s my favourite memory; being alone with nature.
Kendra: Lastly, with ‘ISOLATION’ out now, what else can we expect on the horizon as we head into the fall?
Michael’s Statement: Check the latest ‘Audrey’s Dance’ album too. I’m already working on new songs for both projects. I love to be in my studio. That means more will come soon.
