Q: Welcome back, Microplanet! It’s fantastic to have you with us again. Since our last conversation, a lot has happened in your musical journey. To kick things off, could you share some highlights or pivotal moments that have shaped your artistic path since our last interview?
A: Thank you, it’s great to be back! Our biggest accomplishment was going on our first tour. We were on the road for 3 weeks in the Midwest and East Coast and had final dates for a few weeks after just around SD. Being independent it was a trip doing all the booking, traveling, marketing, and merchandising alone. We also were invited to record some singles at Leesta Vall Sound in New York City. It was recorded straight to vinyl, with an old lathe, which was very exciting. I’d always wanted to perform on a live recording so that felt like a huge milestone.
Q: Can you describe the musical style of Microplanet in three words?
A: Raw, atmospheric and intense.
Q: How do you stay connected with your fans, and what role do they play in shaping your musical journey?
A: Mostly through our social media pages on Instagram and Facebook, but we really value in person interaction at our shows. In the digital world of music its hard to leave a lasting impression between the artist and potential fan, and I think it’s special when you connect with fans after a performance and both parties really get to know each other. It’s more personal.
Q: You have just released your new single, ‘Obliterate’. Is there a story behind it?
A: Obliterate is largely about love, and especially loving yourself. It’s about realizing how special of a person you are and how you can even surprise yourself with your own potential. Obliterate the negativity holding you back from your best self.
Q: What is your favorite part of the track and why?
A: I’m very proud of the guitar solo in the song. I’ve started experimenting with new stacking techniques with my guitar effects, and added some new pedals for different color on this record. Mixing them together and using them at different sections of the solo opened up new possibilities for my composing. It was really fun to explore and carry throughout other songs I am working on for the album.
Q: Can you walk us through the creative process of producing the new track, “Obliterate”?
A: The song was recorded and performed by myself with my digital recording setup at home. I record my guitar into analog guitar pedals, but then I send everything to a digital amp direct to my computer. My drums are tracked with an electronic drum kit into a drum kit vst that I mix further to fit the music. I normally start off recording rhythm guitar and vocals to a click and then build from there, layering more guitar parts and vocals to give the recording more depth.
Q: What has been the most memorable concert or performance for Microplanet so far?
A: Definitely playing at one of our favorite vinyl stores in San Diego, FeeLit Records. It kicked off everything for us. I was doing open mics and not getting booked much when my bass player boldly created a showcase with the owner and got my first album ‘Submerge’ on consignment in the shop. It was one of our most packed shows. People were outside on the sidewalk to listen so many people came or stopped because they heard the music. I think playing in spaces that are not music venues feels more intimate with the crowd, and the whole experience feels very raw and underground.
Q: Reflecting on your body of work, each song holding its unique significance, could you share a particular track that stands out to you personally? What makes that specific tune special, and why does it hold a place of pride in your musical journey?
A: Whirlpool off our album Submerge always stuck out to me, especially when we play it live. I notice it always captures people’s attention when they don’t know our music and it’s the song we always recieve compliments about after a show. It is definitely a sleeper hit.
Q: Exploring the diverse creative processes within the music industry is always fascinating. Could you provide insight into Microplanet’s unique approach to crafting music? From the initial spark of an idea to the finished song, how do you navigate the creative journey and bring its musical concepts to life?
A: I like to visualize each release as its own planet. Slowly building a galaxy of music. With each album I choose an element to represent the planet and in turn it helps navigate how the songs are built around the chosen element. With Submerge, that album was largely about cleansing myself of past struggles and struggling with personal emotions, so water seemed like a good symbol for that. The next album is building around a fire theme so ‘Obliterate’ is about rediscovering the passion of art and life and how that ignites something new and strong within you.
Q: As we wrap up our conversation, looking ahead, what aspirations or dreams do you have for Microplanet, and what message would you like to share with your fans as they continue to accompany you on this musical journey?
A: I would love to see us performing a festival in the future and eventually turning Microplanet into a fully dependable business. Music is one of the most important things in my life and I will never stop creating. Being able to devote all of my time and energy to it would be incredible, it would never feel like “work” to me despite it being hard work. To all of my fans, thank you for all your love and support of our art, and independent artists in general. Continue sharing and discovering new music because that’s what keeps us going.
