Levitation Interview: The Soft Moon
We’re so close guys. Levitation is just around the corner, and it’s going to be a helluva time. I can’t really think of any band that I don’t want to see, so we’re trying to catch up with as many as we can before the fest to give you a little insight into what you should catch…or look into even if you’re not going to be out with us next weekend.
ATH: How would you describe your music’s progression over the three LPs you’ve put out?
SM: It’s more of a personal evolution for me me. Each release reflects a chapter in my life. With Deeper I feel I’ve made it one step closer to reaching inner peace. I felt more mature going into the writing process. With Deeper I’ve also reached a stage of confidence I lacked in the past. I was afraid to express myself on more levels. I just don’t give a damn anymore.
ATH: You’ve already hit up quite a few cities across the United States on this tour, how do audiences seem to be taking to the new tunes?
SM: The connection with the audience at every show has been better than ever with the new material. In the past I felt there was a stronger connection in Europe, but it seems that people are becoming more open minded to what I do. There’s a closeness I feel with the audience that’s hard to explain and that didn’t exist as much on previous tours with my previous albums.
ATH: Speaking of touring, your set at Levitation is one of many dates (North America and Europe) on this tour in support of Deeper, is this mad dash of different cities somewhat daunting or do you find life on the road exciting?
SM: At first touring can be hard to swallow, but once you get into the groove you just naturally start adapting to the lifestyle. It gets to the point (at least for me) where I want to continue like this for as long as possible. I feel fully adapted right before a tour ends then when I come back home and everything stops I end up feeling depressed. Then of course I start getting used to being home living a normal life before touring starts again. It’s a confusing cycle.
ATH: While you’re not in Austin for long, anything in particular you’re looking to squeeze in while you’re in the city, or state of texas?
SM: It’s up for debate but it’s either having some BBQ at Smitty’s or Cuban food at a supposed amazing Cuban restaurant.
ATH: What is the most unexpected thing that’s happened on the tour so far?
SM: All of us getting hit with the stomach flu 30 minutes before our performance in Denver was pretty brutal. Halfway through our set I almost collapsed. It was full of nausea, cold sweats, body aches, dehydration, and diarrhea. We ended up having to cancel our next show in Salt Lake City. People were pissed because of the cancellation, but there was no way in hell we could’ve gone through that again.
ATH: Favorite and least favorite part about performing?
SM: Favorite thing is getting the chance to release all my aggression. It helps keep me sane and feels fucking amazing. I would have to say that the only shitty thing about performing is when things go wrong, technical difficulties etc. But, most of all I love performing, that’s why I made it my life.
ATH: It appears that Levitation is one of only a few festival shows on this tour… Do you approach a festival setting any differently from the rest of your shows?
SM: In the past I couldn’t stand festivals, but over the years I’ve grown to really enjoy them. It seems like festivals have gotten there shit together and made the experience more enjoyable for everyone. Also, festivals are a great way to express your music to a vast variety of people. Many of which who don’t know you exist.
ATH: Who headlines your dream festival?
SM: Antonio Vivaldi