Image credit: TOBEFRANC
Not a fan of the glitz and glam of the industry, Andrew Oliver a.k.a. Nightshifts is a humble indie electronic musician that wants to project positivity into the world one song at a time. His latest single ‘Beach’ via Handwritten Records is a heartfelt track that expresses moments of uncertainty when you think if the path you are on right now was the correct one for you all along. Oliver’s brand of cosmic synth fusion gives one the impression of a feel-good indie banger. Nonetheless, we are invested in his sound and look forward to what the future holds for this charming fellow.
We chatted with sincere musician Nightshifts below.
Looking back, what were some of your earliest entries into music appreciation? And music production?
My dad would always play music in the car to school, and would quiz me on who the artist was. This was the first time I actively thought about the artists behind the songs. The first time I thought about music production was hearing old soul samples on Kanye’s The College Dropout. It blew my mind and immediately got me into making beats.
Take us through your songwriting process. Are there any particular steps you take when putting music together?
I have a few different ways of starting. I often start by programming a drum beat, and then finding some guitar or piano chords that work over top, and then come up with a vocal melody and lyrics. The other way is: I will be walking around and have a melody idea come to me out of nowhere. I will then work backwards to build a song underneath it.
What gets your creative juices flowing?
Aimless walking helps a lot. Watching good movies or making playlists with my favourite music.
As a musician, it becomes apparent that there is a huge difference between the art and the business. Is there anything about the music scene that you would personally change?
I get a lot of anxiety around social media and general self-promotion. I wish it wasn’t an essential part of the gig. It is great to connect with the people who are listening though.
Studio work and music creation or performing and interacting with a live audience, which do you prefer?
I feel most comfortable in a studio, but shows always leave me feeling more rewarded. If I had to choose, I would go with the studio as it is such an integral part of my day to day life.
What is the most memorable response you have had to your music?
Justin Vernon (Bon Iver) tweeted about a remix of one of his songs that I made with my buddy. I was just about to graduate from college and wasn’t sure whether I should pursue music. I was such a massive fan of Bon Iver that this gave me the courage to take the leap.
What’s on your current playlist?
Rostam, Tyler The Creator, Clairo and the new Unknown Mortal Orchestra tracks.
Breakdown the news for us: what can we expect from you in the near future?
AN ALBUM!
Famous last words?
I still feel like I haven’t made what I’m capable of yet. It is all a work in progress. Thanks for being along for the journey! Do your thing and enjoy the ride!
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