Shane Told, the frontman of the post-hardcore band Silverstein, shares his journey of over two decades in music. He delves into the creative process behind their new album, 'Misery Made Me', inspired by pandemic life. Expect absurd tour tales, including a wild fan encounter, and insights on balancing authenticity with modern technology in music. Shane reflects on the evolution of vocal techniques, blending singing and screaming, and touches on the importance of integrity within the music industry.
Silverstein has successfully blended post-hardcore and emo influences over 20 years, showcasing their creative evolution while retaining their core identity.
Writing their tenth album presented challenges that required a diverse approach, ultimately allowing them to select the strongest songs from an extensive pool of material.
The COVID-19 pandemic initially hindered their creativity but ultimately led to enhanced collaboration through virtual communication and a revitalizing studio experience.
Engaging with fans on platforms like Twitch has strengthened connections, enabling Silverstein to share their creative process and foster a sense of community.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Silverstein
Silverstein has effectively blended various musical elements over the years, notably combining aspects of post-hardcore and emo with modern influences. The band's ability to maintain its core identity while exploring new sounds is a testament to their creative evolution. Engaging with diverse musical genres has allowed them to develop a unique style that resonates with both long-time fans and new listeners. Their growth over the years has culminated in the release of their tenth album, showcasing a mature sound while preserving the energy that initially drew fans to their music.
The Challenge of Writing New Material
Writing new records can be a daunting task, particularly after a decade-long career. The band faces the challenge of ensuring that each album maintains originality while preventing repetition of themes, lyrics, and melodies. As they approached their tenth album, they invested significant time and effort into creating diverse content, leading to a rich collection of ideas and compositions. This dedication resulted in a more extensive pool of material, allowing them to select the strongest songs for the final album.
Navigating the Pandemic's Impact
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly influenced the writing and recording process for the latest album. Isolated from each other, band members initially struggled to connect creatively but ultimately found a way to come together. They used the downtime to focus on songwriting, utilizing virtual communication means to collaborate and share ideas. Once safe conditions allowed, they gathered at a studio, where the energy of collaboration reignited their passion for making music together.
Innovative Recording Environment
Recording the album in a unique environment played a pivotal role in the creative process. Set in a studio located on a Native American reservation, the band experienced an immersive experience that fostered collaboration and creativity. The presence of on-site accommodations allowed for seamless transitions between studio time and downtime, leading to spontaneous jam sessions and songwriting discussions. This unique setup contributed to the album's overall vibe and the strong dynamics throughout the tracks.
Raw Emotion in New Music
The new album reflects a sense of raw emotion and intensity, stemming from the band's experiences during challenging times. This emotional depth is evident in the lyrics and the overall sound, characterized by darker themes and aggressive musical elements. Listeners can expect to hear tracks that resonate with feelings of frustration and angst, bringing authenticity to the band's message. Importantly, this rawness is juxtaposed with moments of melodic beauty, creating a well-rounded listening experience.
Influence of Technology on Music Creation
The band recognizes the transformative impact of technology on both the music industry and their creative process. Modern recording techniques and digital tools have allowed musicians greater accessibility to high-quality production and sound refinement, which was once limited to major studios. The use of plugins and advanced production techniques has enabled bands to achieve polished sounds without compromising their artistic integrity. This evolution makes it easier for emerging artists to produce music that meets contemporary standards.
Twitch and Fan Engagement
Engaging with fans through platforms like Twitch has become an essential part of the band's connection to their audience. The interactive nature of streaming allows them to share insights into their creative process, collaborate with fans, and establish a sense of community. Additionally, streaming provides a space for musicians to showcase their personalities outside of their recorded music. This approach not only strengthens their fanbase but also humanizes the band in a way that resonates with new listeners.
