Bon Iver on “SABLE,” His First New Record in Five Years
Oct 16, 2024
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Justin Vernon, the creative force behind Bon Iver, delves into his return with the new EP 'SABLE,' his first in over five years. He shares the personal journey behind the album, addressing themes of heartache and emotional introspection. Vernon reflects on the complexities of fame, the significance of collaboration with artists like Taylor Swift and Charli XCX, and the profound impact of psychedelics on his creativity. His candid thoughts on performance and growth resonate, highlighting a transformative period for both him and his music.
Justin Vernon's new EP 'SABLE' explores emotional themes of anxiety, guilt, and hope, creating a narrative arc within his music.
Vernon emphasizes the importance of collaboration and shared experiences in music, believing collective expression enhances artistic output.
Deep dives
Justin Vernon's Unique Musical Journey
Justin Vernon, known as Bon Iver, has carved out a distinct place in pop music through his versatility as a singer-songwriter and collaborator. Over the years, his work has ranged from bare-boned acoustic tracks to more experimental sounds, demonstrating an ability to evoke deep emotion in various styles. With the release of his new three-song EP 'Sable', he explores themes of anxiety, guilt, and hope, presenting these feelings as a narrative arc within the music. Each song forms an interconnected story reflecting his internal struggles, capturing the essence of human experience with raw authenticity.
The Importance of Sharing Music
Vernon expresses that the need to share his music stems from a personal necessity, emphasizing the importance of releasing art into the public sphere. He has reflected on the significance of putting music out for listeners, noting that it serves as a vital step in the artistic process. Through his music, he aims to convey truths that resonate beyond himself, indicating that the emotional connection with audiences is fundamental. This notion of public sharing is contrasted with past cynicism about performative aspects of art, showcasing his growth and commitment to community through music.
Collaborative Spirit and Artistic Growth
Vernon embraces collaboration as an essential part of his creative process, believing that the best music comes from shared experiences and mutual trust. He acknowledges that while individual power in artistry is important, the joy of working with others enhances the artistic output and fosters deeper understanding. Referring to his partnership with Taylor Swift and other collaborators, he highlights how their contributions push him to explore new musical horizons and expand his creative limitations. This openness to collaboration reflects his belief in the beauty of collective expression over individual acclaim.
Navigating Personal Struggles Through Music
Throughout the discussion, Vernon reveals that his music serves as a means of reflecting on personal turmoil, including anxiety and the expectations tied to success. He candidly addresses how dealing with grief and heartache influences his songwriting, helping him articulate complex emotions. By embracing vulnerability in his work, he learns to confront issues that previously weighed him down, ultimately finding freedom in the process. This journey of self-discovery through songwriting showcases how art can be both a cathartic release and a tool for personal growth.
Bon Iver is the alias of Justin Vernon, who holds an unusual place in music as both a singer-songwriter in an acoustic idiom and a collaborator with the biggest stars in pop, including Taylor Swift, Charli XCX, and Kanye West. Bon Iver’s new three-song EP, titled “SABLE,” is his first record of his own songs in more than five years. Vernon rarely gives interviews, so this is an extended version of his conversation with the staff writer Amanda Petrusich. They touched on the meaning of “sable,” a word that can refer to mourning and darkness. Vernon is not altogether comfortable with the acclaim he has received. “I’m not, like, famous on the street, People-magazine famous, but . . . there’s been a lot of accolades,” he tells Petrusich. “I was getting a lot of positive feedback for being heartbroken and having heartache and I’ve wondered . . . [if] maybe I’m pressing the bruise.”
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