Photo Credit: Goose Holyoak

Not too long ago, last Friday in fact, Westing dropped I Haven’t Been Feeling Myself. A record Matt Mascarenas admits “truthfully is” personal due to certain aspects, which you can read about below. You can also see where he’d hide his heart in true Poe fashion, some nerves and more. Then when you’re done checking that out, make sure to get yourself a copy of the new EP and if you happen to be in the Salt Lake City area – check Westing out at Urban Lounge on May 4.

Kendra: This project started to take shape a couple of years ago. If you were to compare this journey into being a solo artist to a road trip across the US from east to west, what state would you say you were in right now and why?

Matt Mascarenas: I imagine that I’m nearing the Midwest — I’m able to see the progress and still have the excitement to keep going.

Kendra: You also mentioned this was a transition into a post rock sound. Musically, why was that the direction you felt creatively was right for you now?

Matt: This is what comes out naturally. I grew up listening to punk and hardcore and wanted the music I make to have some sense of urgency. With these new songs, I’m able to get aggressive while still keeping them rock songs.

“Hide Your Heart”

Kendra: I Haven’t Been Feeling Myself dropped in mid-April. So then we’ll be able to hear what you’ve been working on. Are you nervous to finally share the music?

Matt: I’m excited to finally release these. I felt more nervous about releasing acoustic songs because it was such a new experience whereas this feels right at home with what I want to be doing.

Kendra: It sounds like you got personal on this record. Do you ever have any reservations about being too personal when writing?

Matt: Truthfully, yes. Not the fact of opening up about some topics, but eventually having a change of heart. I’ve learned to let music become that moment in time rather than a conclusion. I want the songs to be honest and if I do end up having a change of heart down the road, I will write a new song to address it.

Kendra: On a bit of a lighter note, going off “Hide Your Heart,” (which ya’ll can hear on the new album) where in your house would you indeed hide your heart from an intruder?

Matt: I would hide it under the floorboards.

Kendra: Will you be touring with the release of I Haven’t Been Feeling Myself?

Matt: Absolutely. We will be announcing some dates this summer.

Kendra: Lastly, here at ZO we’re all about the arts. With that I wanted to ask you to either draw or submit a piece of art that you feel best represents your sound?

Matt: The album cover was created by Minas Halaj and I connect to it fully.