Formula Indie Sessions _ Interview with Neuroshock

n e u r o s h o c k – solo dark wave/ industrial artist from Winnipeg, Canada

What is your earliest memory connected to music?

My earliest memory connected to music would be the scores that accompanied my weekend binges of Saturday morning cartoons.

How did your passion for creating music begin?

I’ve always been moved by music – how it makes me feel, and the memories it can trigger. I wanted to be part of the music scene, and I could not afford a synthesizer at the time (in my teens), so I bought a cheap drum kit and began my musical journey.

What’s the story behind your current music project?

My previous band came to its conclusion by the grace of the pandemic in 2020. With a studio full of great equipment, I took it upon myself to learn how to use it. I began to school myself for playing keyboards – I’d already had some background in synthesizers and sound design. My first solo album under the name ‘neuroshock” was a musical rebirth for me and a chance to define myself musically, as a solo artist.

How would you describe your sound to someone who has never heard your music before?

My sound, in the simplest terms, could be described as a blend of dark wave and industrial genres. If you like Front Line Assembly, Gary Numan, and Clan of Xymox, you might enjoy neuroshock.

What is one thing you’ve learned that completely changed the way you make music?

I’ve learned to be more confident in my abilities to learn new skills in both performing and as an audio engineer of sorts. I’ve learned to truly listen.

What tools, instruments, or software are essential in your creative process?

The core of my sound is the Spectrasonics Omnisphere 3 power synth. I also use A Moog Model D, an Oberheim OBXa, and a Novation Bass Station II. For percussion, I use a Roland SPD-30 Octapad, and a Roland V Drum kit.

Which indie artist or song are you loving right now?

I’ve been really enjoying old Canadian new wave bands like Strange Advance. Brilliant stuff.

How have your personal experiences influenced your music and artistic vision?

All of my songs are often quite personal – I’ve had some bad life experiences. Music is my way to reconcile my feelings and move forward.

What emotions or messages do you hope listeners take from your work?

I do music for myself, mainly. If a listener can relate to my music and lyrics, that’s a nice collateral effect.

What’s the most important lesson music has taught you so far?

Music has taught me to keep learning new skills.

What is a dream venue or festival you would love to perform at?

I have not given much thought to performing live just yet, but The Park here in Winnipeg would be a great start for me.

If you could collaborate with any artist, past or present, who would it be and why?

I’d love to collaborate with Bill Leeb from Front Line Assembly because I could likely learn a great deal from him. He is immensely talented and a prolific writer of great music.

Where can our listeners follow and support your music? (Website,Spotify, IG, links)

https://neuroshock.bandcamp.com

https://www.manitobamusic.com/profiles/view,499/neuroshock