Formula Indie Sessions : Interview with Ariel Posen
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What is your earliest memory connected to music?
One of my earliest memories is being surrounded by music at home growing up in Winnipeg. My parents always were always performing and travelling and I would go with them to watch them play. Music was always playing in the house as well.
How did your passion for creating music begin?
Started from an early age of exploring on the instruments and being in bands with friends of mine. I realized basically at the beginning that it was important for me to not just play an instrument but to create.
What’s the story behind your current music project?
Bannatyne is really about revisiting where I come from and appreciating it in a new way. Spending years touring made me realize how important home is — not just the place, but the people and experiences that shaped me. Sonically, I wanted this record to lean more into a rockier, dirtier, less polished direction.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?
I’d say it’s soulful rock and roll with deep roots in blues, Americana, R&B, and guitar music. There’s a strong focus on songs and melody, but also a lot of space for feel, groove, and textures.
What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?
Probably learning to stop overthinking perfection. I realized the magic usually lives in the imperfections — the human moments. I really try to lean into that mindset and let things stay raw when they feel right emotionally.
What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?
The guitar is always the starting point for me. Then lyrics and voice of course. Beyond that, I’m constantly experimenting with amps, textures, and layering sounds. I try not to get too caught up in gear though — the song always has to come first.
Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?
Hayley Williams! She left her label so she’s technically an independent artist. Love her latest record.
How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?
Every record feels like a timestamp of who I was during that period of my life. This new album especially reflects where I’ve been emotionally and creatively over the last couple of years — a lot of touring, a lot of reflection, and a deeper appreciation for home, relationships, and identity.
What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?
Hopefully people feel something genuine. I just want the music to connect honestly.
What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?
To be authentic and original. The more I’ve tried to sound like “me” instead of chasing expectations or trends, the more fulfilling the music has become.
What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?
All of them, we’re available and ready 🙂
If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
The Beatles, or any of them individually. They’ve all shaped who I am as a musician.
Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website,Spotify, IG, links)
@arielposen
Looking toward the future, what’s your dream for the next chapter of your musical journey?
Just to keep trying to make genuine music that connects with everybody. Still a lot of creative gas in the tank so I’m going to keep running with it.
