Ervin Munir, The Interview Series.

Ervin Munir

How did your songwriting process for “Pure and Simple” differ from “Broken Compass”?

My songwriting process hasn’t changed between both albums. The one exception is with the new album title track “Pure and Simple” where Tim Levey wrote the original lyrics. I added the middle-8 lyrics and adjusted a few of the rest. At this point I felt inspired enough to complete the song. 

I still look for inspiration from the world around me and from my personal experiences.

What inspired the emotional depth and drum solo in “Felixstowe”? 

It was a grey rainy day in Norfolk. I was feeling low, I guess. I had been playing “Old Man” by Neil Young and I liked the F to D chord change that it has in it. I played around on the guitar and got a nice chord sequence by adding a G chord.

“Felixstowe”, at the time, was just a placeholder word destined to be replaced at some point. I googled “Felixstowe “ and found that it has a ferry. The songwriting took on a life of its own and I imagined a grey, wet, dank ferry town and a breakup song. 

The drum solo came about because the overwhelming feelings in the songs were loneliness, sadness and anger. I imagined a lone drummer in a boat house thrashing out these feelings as the ferry, with his love on board, left. My producer Aeron Z Jones immediately got it and the drum track came to life. 

I’m pleased to say that “Felixstowe”, and two other tracks (so far) from the new album, have been played on BBC radio. 

How did working with Aeron Z Jones and Tina Blaber shape the album’s sound?

Aeron always has a huge influence on the sound of every track. He’s a skilled musician and multi-instrumentalist. We work well together and the ideas he brings to each song are usually good ones. I give him space to be creative and he does just that. This was the same on my previous album “Broken Compass”. 

I’ve worked with Tina Blaber for many years. She has a spectacular voice and some songs I write really need her female vocal. She is often on my mind when songwriting. It’s great knowing that she will deliver what I need. She sings on “King” and “Doors”.

Tina and I have recently released a co-written single called “The Book” featuring Cutting the Mustard. On this song I play acoustic guitar and sing backing vocals and Tina sings lead vocals. Aeron Z Jones also produced it.

What does the title track “Pure and Simple” represent to you?

It surprised me how much I identified with the words in this song, especially as the original lyrics were written by someone else (Tim Levey). I do like things pure and simple, I’m not that great with change, I like to know what I’m doing in most things, and, like many people I want to love and be loved.

What do you want listeners to take away from “Pure and Simple”?

I’d like people to realise that there’s lots more to come from me musically. I’d like them to come with me on the journey. 

Photo Credit: Ervin Munir.

Thomas Cole, The Interview Series.

Thomas Cole

What inspired the raw, vulnerable approach on “Watch Me”?

‘Watch Me’ was one of the first concepts I wrote for my second album, definitely 80s dance inspired. The message stems from my determination to prove the naysayers wrong and to be successful in the pursuit of my dreams. I absolutely love the production on this song. Shoutout to my producer, Electropoint, who really killed it with this one! This is definitely one of the dancier tracks on the album, which makes it even more fitting as an anthem of defiance and celebration. 

What message do you want “Watch Me” to send?

I want my listeners to realize and understand that it’s okay to be different, and to live a life that goes against the grain. You can be yourself and still have everything you’ve ever dreamed of. For me, as a gay man, I still wanted to get married and have a family. Everybody said I couldn’t have that after coming out, and I just responded with “Watch Me.” 

How did writing “Miserable Fck” help you process emotions?

I feel like every song I write is me processing my emotions in some way, shape, or form. 

Specifically with ‘Miserable Fck,’ I was reliving an argument I’d had with someone close to me while also processing the fact that I, along with many of my generation, tend to paint a perfect picture on socials while secretly dealing with — let’s call it ‘darkness’ — alone, or behind the scenes. Everyone thinks I have it all, but if that’s the case, why do I feel so miserable at times? 

That contradiction is something so many of us experience, but rarely admit to, and I wanted to put that raw honesty into the song. 

I’ve come to realize that the more you obsess over what you don’t have, the easier it is to overlook and underappreciate all the great things you DO have. It’s really all about your perspective — think glass half full vs. glass half empty. Hopefully a change in perspective will keep us all out of the ‘Doom Loop.’

Have you ever felt silenced in your career?

Absolutely — Whether by the industry, social media algorithms, or even those closest to me, I’ve faced moments where I felt unheard.

I’ve felt silenced by the industry, when I’d go on countless casting calls and auditions, just to be rejected and feel as though I’m not good enough. 

I’ve felt silenced by The Algorithm, for not allowing me to access a larger audience that so many other content creators seem to have found, and generated a genuine and long-lasting connection with.

I’ve felt silenced by my inner circle, whom have often discounted my music, even before experiencing it.

That’s really what “Shut Up & Listen” is all about. It’s about embracing self-expression and lifting each other up, always. Everyone seems to have an opinion, but only I have my story, and I choose to tell it through this medium. So STFU and listen! 😉 

What can fans expect from the Watch Me music video?

There are many many layers to the ‘Watch Me’ music video. It begins in a chaotic toddler environment, where I’m tripping over toys and kids are crying in the background.

It’s apparent I need a break, so I lock myself in my room for what I like to call a “daddy timeout.” I put on my virtual reality headset and escape to my Pop star fantasy world. Cue the music, choreography, and leather chaps!

At its core, the video mirrors the song’s message: stepping into your own power and demanding to be seen for who you are.

Shoutout to my incredible choreographer, Amanda Arenas, and dancers — Laura Hertziesen, Tianna Brown, Maya Shah, and Joicy Yang — Y’all slayed! I can’t wait for the next one. 🙌🏼

Photo Credit: Thomas Cole.

Ervin Munir, ‘Pure And Simple’

Ervin Munir

Words By Joey Rochert.

Ervin Munir returns with his second studio album, “Pure and Simple”, which is out now. Ervin demonstrates here his powerful heartfelt storytelling, delivering an introspective collection of songs that explore love, sorrow, loss, and self-discovery with profound sincerity.

The album is a blend of folk sensibilities with unique musical arrangements and it strikes a perfect balance between raw emotion and polished craftsmanship. Collaborations with skilled musicians elevate the record’s depth, notably Aeron Z Jones, whose bass, electric, and slide guitar work adds a dynamic edge to several tracks.

It is an album which you can get play time and time again and enjoy something different and it will be stuck on repeat I am sure!

Photo Credit: Ervin Munir.

Julia Thomsen, ‘Romantic Embrace’

Julia Thomsen

Words By Joey Rochert.

There’s something truly magical about Julia Thomsen’s compositions—each one feels like a journey into a serene, dreamlike world, and “Romantic Embrace” is no exception. From the very first note, this latest piece envelops you in a wave of warmth, inviting us to slow down and simply feel.

With a delicate yet expressive touch, Julia paints a picture of tranquility, blending gentle piano melodies that resonate with the heart. Inspired by nature’s beauty, “Romantic Embrace” carries an air of timeless elegance, much like a quiet sunrise or the tender rustle of autumn leaves. The piece unfolds with a graceful simplicity, yet beneath its soothing surface lies a depth of emotion that lingers long after the music fades.

Photo Credit: Julia Thomsen.

Secret Wish, ‘Melody Of The Music Man’

Secret Wish

“Melody Of The Music Man” by Secret Wish combines modern electronic polish with nostalgic dance energy to create pure dancefloor bliss. The song, which is suited for both underground clubs and large festival stages, begins with a mesmerising piano melody and develops into an exhilarating blend of soaring synths and a heart-pounding bassline.

Grammy-nominated mix engineer Benny Steele’s master touch elevates the production, adding a clear, radio-ready gloss while preserving the track’s party vibe. It seems both familiar and new because to the smooth blending of modern EDM components with vintage Eurodance feelings.

Adding to the track’s unstoppable momentum, “Melody Of The Music Man” has earned support from some of the biggest names in the electronic music world. DJ heavyweights like Oliver Heldens, Don Diablo, Dimitri Vegas, and Yves V have backed the release, alongside a diverse lineup of tastemakers including Joachim Garraud, Judge Jules, and Gambafreaks.

You can listen below.

Photo Credit: Secret Wish.

Marsha Swanson, ‘Generational Transmission’

Marsha Swanson

Marsha Swanson, the progressive-pop singer is still firing on all cylnders and her new release, “Generational Transmission” proves yet another standout from her “Near Life Experience” album. There is a beauty surrodning this track which is easy to get lost in and it is the ideal track for the festive season with its warm glow.

There is a depth and a boldness present on this track which sends goosebumps right up the back of the neck. The vocals from Marsha are perfectly delivered, likely her best vocal performance to date and she synergies flawlessly with the myriad of sounds beneath her such as strings, piano tones and gripping drum rhythms.

Photo Credit: Marsha Swanson.

AKA KELZZ, ‘Odyssey’

AKA KELZZ

AKA KELZZ, the Berlin-based singer originally from the UK, has dropped their highly anticipated album Odyssey, and it is nothing short of an ear-worm. The album blends genres, moving through intricate layers of electronic beats, dreamy synths, and soul-infused vocals. It’s a journey that captures both the stark realities and the euphoric possibilities of life, much like the concept of an odyssey itself.

From the opening track, AKA KELZZ takes us into their world with a unique mix of introspection and celebration. Their voice, smooth yet powerful, carries a sense of longing and wonder that resonates throughout the album. The production on Odyssey stands out for its ability to merge electronic and organic elements. There’s an undeniable Berlin influence, but the UK roots of AKA KELZZ are felt in the way she weaves in elements of grime and dub, which gives their sound a raw edge. It’s this blend of electronic precision and emotional depth that makes Odyssey an album to savour!

You can check it out below.

Photo Credit: AKA KELZZ.

Minna Ora, The Interview Series.

Minna Ora

What inspired you to explore themes of mental health and depression in “Freeze”?

I experienced postpartum depression after both of my pregnancies over twenty years ago. When I faced cancer ten years ago, it was also very challenging, but I found myself ready to talk about it sooner. My earlier single “Fire” was inspired by my cancer struggle. However, witnessing others struggle with depression made me realize it was time to share my own story. I wanted to offer a personal perspective and capture the true essence of depression as I remember it, even after all these years. Depression taught me the importance of caring for my body and mind and not overextending myself. Even now, when I sense I’m taking on too much, my body signals me to slow down, and I make sure to listen.

The music video is excellent, how many takes did you have to do?

Thank you, the making of the video is actually a great story. The efficient and skillful shooting of the video is thanks to the director, Juha Särestöniemi. Watching him work was like watching a symphony conductor leading a full orchestra. He even got the weather to cooperate! The video was shot in two parts, the part inside the bus was done in April and the embrace at the end outside the bus was done in May. The part in April was done with a larger group of people, but Juha directed everything and everyone so skillfully that the whole thing was done in an hour, and this included two versions, one in Finnish and the other in English. 

The weather indeed cooperated magically on both days. For the main part of the video that took place inside the bus, we had hoped to get some kind of bad weather to illustrate the despair of depression. In April, it had been a nice weather all week, but on the day of the video shooting, we got a snowstorm. It worked out perfectly. And then in May, the plan was to shoot the end part outside the bus on a sunny day since the lyrics at the end talk about a sunny day and how it will help me survive. We actually had to chase the sun that day because it kept drizzling. Juha would look in the weather app to see where we would have to drive the bus to find a potentially sunny moment. We found our moment, Juha did three takes of the embrace, and we were done.  It took five minutes to do the video shooting for that part. Once we were done, it started raining again. 

What message do you hope listeners take from “Freeze,” especially those who might be struggling?

Any of us can fall ill, but we must remember we’re not alone in this world. When you’re depressed, it’s easy to think that nobody will understand how you’re feeling. But I’m here to tell you that there are people who do understand what you’re going through. Even when you think your soul is broken, and you feel like you’re sinking deep, there is still always hope. The sunny day will eventually come and help you survive.

How does “Freeze” fit within your current single series, and what makes it unique?

My other singles have also been based on personal experiences and reflections, but this topic is now extremely personal and vulnerable. Mental health is also very timely in many people’s lives. Even though I have been lucky to be free of clinical depression for twenty years by now, I still remember the lessons from those times on a regular basis. Whenever my body gives me signals that I’m doing too much, I know I must listen. So, it’s still very personal and something to be mindful about.

Any more releases planned in the future?

I plan to continue making singles until I have a full album. Once I have the full album, I’d love to create a live show with elements of a musical and make it into a full story-telling performance on stage. And I plan to have a vinyl album made once I have enough songs. It is important for me to make these singles at my own pace to keep my stress levels in check. And since I’m making these myself in my own studio, I can adjust the pace to my needs, which again supports my mental health. For the next single I do have some initial inklings about a topic, but it’s not quite ready to be worked on. I always need to hold space between the singles to kind of reset everything. I can’t force it. The day will come, most likely in the next few weeks, when I get an impulse to grab the guitar and start composing.

Photo Credit: Minna Ora.

Ervin Munir, ‘Break Me’

Ervin Munir

Words By Joey Rochert.

Ervin Munir’s latest single, “Break Me,” is here, and it’s a beautifully raw exploration of heartbreak and healing. The Norfolk folk singer-songwriter has once again crafted a track that connects on a deeply emotional level, drawing listeners into the intimate vulnerability that comes with the end of a relationship.

With his warm vocals and acoustic guitar at the forefront, Ervin delivers a performance that feels both personal and relatable. The song’s richness is elevated by Aeron Z Jones, whose soulful electric guitar, piano, and bass add layers of texture and depth, making “Break Me” linger long after it ends.

Lyrically, the track captures the painful yet transformative process of moving on, exploring introspection and acceptance in a way that feels honest and cathartic. It’s a reminder that even in heartbreak, there’s beauty and strength to be found.

Photo Credit: Ervin Munir.

Thomas Cole, ‘Watch Me’

Thomas Cole

Words By Joey Rochert.

Thomas Cole’s highly anticipated EP “Watch Me” is out now, and it marks a bold new chapter in his musical voyage. The three-track collection, which dropped on November 22, 2024, sees the New York-based pop artist embracing a rawer, more vulnerable side while diving deep into personal themes of defiance, resilience, and empowerment.

The title track, “Watch Me,” is a powerful declaration of self-confidence and independence. With unflinching courage, Thomas responds to those who doubted his ability to have a fulfilling life after coming out, confidently proclaiming, “Watch me.” This anthem serves as both a personal statement and a message to anyone who’s ever faced adversity and judgment, reinforcing Thomas’s unshakable sense of self.

In “Miserable Fck,” Thomas channels the complexity of navigating relationships while dealing with inner turmoil. Inspired by a heated argument, the track is an emotionally charged release, blending electronic and rock influences to express frustration, longing, and the messy process of moving through tough times. As Thomas says, it’s about transcending the darkness even when life feels overwhelming.

The final track, “Shut Up & Listen,” fuses rock and electronic rhythms to tell a story of self-empowerment. Here, Thomas explores the fight to be seen and heard in a world that often seeks to silence authentic voices, making it a compelling anthem for anyone who has struggled to assert their truth.

Photo Credit: Thomas Cole.