Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with Screaming Lord Byron
What is your earliest memory connected to music?
When I was very young, my parents had this old electric organ that was so fascinating. One day, I tried to plug it in on my own, and got badly shocked. I can still remember the feeling. The organ disappeared soon after, so I moved on to my father’s acoustic guitar.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
Growing up, music from all over the world was always a presence in the house. There were never any formal music lessons, but we always played guitar and music with family. Later, I played in a couple of great bands and did some writing, but it never went anywhere. Years later, the passion for music came back, out of nowhere.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
My current project is the ongoing release of singles. I try to put a lot of care and mana into a single song, and then put it out there into the universe. THEREISAMOON just came out, and there is one more coming soon which I’m excited about.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
Lo-fi epic rock ‘n’ roll with a touch of Irish soul.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
Time is short! I went through some hard times, but creating music brought me back to life. Now, I create with urgency, and the music is more about making art rather than recording something technically brilliant with perfect musicianship.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
I use a very low budget but efficient studio and setup. For recording, I use a Zoom R20 multitrack then move the music into Audacity. I mostly use a Takamine acoustic and an Epiphone electric guitar. The synths in my tunes come from a 1990s Yamaha DJX. I use a cheap usb mic for vocals that seems to sound ok.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
La Luz is a very cool band. There are so many really talented indie artists on these playlists I’m always submitting to, so I try to have an open ear.
I’m loving a live version of “Rumble” by Link Wray.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
I’ve been blessed with great family and friends who I’ve shared life with through music. Now I’m a single father and a special education teacher in NYC. Music is more important than ever, and I get a lot of inspiration from my sons, from my job, and from Brooklyn.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
I hope the music resonates with even one person, and makes them feel like they’re not alone in the universe.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
Music has taught me that it’s important to give in to your creativity and use it in a way that brings people together.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
Madison Square Garden. Or a rock’n’roll bar called Mama Tried in Brooklyn.
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
David Bowie was so inspiring. He would be a dream songwriting collab. If I could jam with someone, it would be Prince, but I could never keep up.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music?
Screaming Lord Byron on Spotify
Music videos and more on YouTube
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
After the next song comes out, I want to put out a record of all of these singles. Translucent vinyl. Then, maybe something live…
What do you hope listeners will discover about you along the way?
I hope listeners discover that I’m having so much fun recording this music and it is deeply exciting sharing it with listeners around the world. So, thank you to anyone who cares– I love you.
