Introduction to a New Sound
Andy Shauf, a Canadian folk artist, has made a surprising shift in his music style by creating a disco record. This change in direction is a significant departure from his usual rich storytelling and warm acoustic guitars. Shauf’s decision to explore a new sound was influenced by the pandemic, which prompted him to reevaluate his life and music.
A Change in Perspective
The pandemic had a profound impact on Shauf, leading him to stop drinking and reassess his priorities. With a newfound clarity, he began to question his music and the direction he wanted to take. This period of reflection ultimately led to the creation of a digital synthesizer and sampler-based album, marking a significant departure from his traditional analog approach.
Experimenting with New Sounds
Shauf’s experimentation with digital instruments resulted in the creation of two distinct albums: "Norm" and Foxwarren’s second album, "2". The latter was a collaborative effort with his bandmates, where they shared a digital folder and contributed to the album remotely. This unconventional approach allowed them to blend their ideas and create a unique sound that was different from their previous work.
The Challenges of Remote Collaboration
One of the most significant challenges of remote collaboration was the lack of immediate feedback. Without being in the same studio, the band members had to rely on digital communication to share their ideas and critique each other’s work. This process could be frustrating at times, but it also allowed for a more flexible and open approach to music creation.
A New Approach to Songwriting
The remote collaboration process allowed Shauf to "sneak up" on a story and explore the dissolution of a relationship through a series of vignettes. The songs on "2" are connected by dialogue from an old film, adding a layer of mystery to the album. Shauf prefers to keep the inspiration behind the album vague, leaving it to the listener’s interpretation.
A Groovy New Sound
In contrast to their debut album, "2" has a groovy, buoyant quality, defined by slick bass lines and punchy guitars. The album’s sound is a deliberate departure from their previous work, with a focus on creating a more energetic and upbeat atmosphere. Tracks like "Deadhead" showcase the band’s new sound, with its snappy radio riff, steady bass line, and infectious chorus.
Bringing the New Sound to Life
As Foxwarren prepares to tour in August, the band is faced with the challenge of translating their new sound to a live environment. They have begun rehearsing, but Shauf still wonders how they will pull it off. Despite the uncertainty, he is excited to reunite with his bandmates and perform the new songs, which will be a special experience for both the band and their audience.
