9+1 Q&A with Peter Spacey

What inspired you to first start making music? And how did you come to be in your current incarnation? Or if you prefer, a brief bio about you.

Born to musical family, with both parents musicians – From an early age, I was immersed in a musical & Creative environment, starting with a classical and jazz background as a keyboard player alongside early exposure to electronic music trough my father’s studio. My creative journey was enriched by my early experiences with computer music production, beatmaking, and blending audible beats with visuals. I began performing as a pianist during school and took to DJing before I turned 18, which laid the foundation for my current musical incarnation.

Provide us with some info about your latest release…

My latest release, “It’s Nothing (Something),” might initially come across as lighthearted with seemingly simple lyrics, but it’s deeply personal, narrating stories of the ups and downs of life, contacts and duality (Nothing-Something, I’m dancing-Collapsing), longing and love /relationships. It’s the duality of life encapsulated in music—the dance between what seems like nothing and what turns out to be something significant.
This track is the first single of my upcoming full-length album, exploring the theme of opposites, a recurring narrative in my work through music and Visuals.

The accompanying music video visually echoes this concept of dichotomy, with black and white visuals for the verses where I deliver the words somewhat impassively, contrasting with the vibrant and psychedelic colors of the choruses that come alive with the pulsating beat. The culmination of the track in the C part unites these concepts both lyrically and musically, with the visuals following suit as the monochromatic figure of myself gains color, and realizing after ⅔ song of ‘It’s Nothing’ that ‘It’s Something!’. The production mirrors my journey, blending traditional singer-songwriter elements with electronic drops, reflecting my fusion of classical training and electronic DJ influences.

Which ones would you consider your main influences both music-wise & non-music-wise?

My music draws from a diverse palette, blending the psychedelic melodies of Tame Impala with Tyler, The Creator’s vivid storytelling, and the cutting-edge soundscapes of Flume and SOPHIE. These artists inspire me to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories, embodying a fusion of genres and styles.

Non-Musical Influences: Beyond music, my creativity is fueled by life’s contrasts—from introspective solitude to the rush of collective euphoria. Influenced by Andy Warhol’s pop art, my work seeks to challenge norms and celebrate the spectrum of human experience, blending emotional depth with visual art to craft unique auditory and visual narratives.

In what way does your sound differ from the rest genre-related artists/bands and why should we listen to your music? In other words, how would you describe your sound?

My sound is a unique amalgamation of electronic music production blended with rich jazz harmonies, traditional songwriting intertwined with dance-oriented beats.

I thrive on integrating visual concepts into my musical landscapes. This unique approach allows me to create a sound that’s not just heard but experienced, inviting listeners into a world where music and visual art coexist seamlessly, offering a distinct and immersive auditory journey.

If it’s the live Audio-Visual performance of mine, immersive A-V Art Installations, or Tech Based A-V Exhibitions.

Please name your 3 desert islands albums, movies & books…

Albums:
Gorillaz – “Plastic Beach” Flume – “Hi This Is Flume” Tame Impala – “Currents”

Movies:
“Jim & Andy “Fight Club” “Howl’s Moving Castle”

Books:
“Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance”, “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” by Rick Rubin, and “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy”

Do you prefer studio or performing live and why?

My love for the studio is unparalleled; it’s a sanctuary where creativity knows no bounds. For years, my life revolved around studios, dedicating countless hours to crafting soundscapes and narratives. Now, my home studio is not just a workspace but a part of my essence, a limitless playground for music, video art, writing, and dancing.

Yet, performing live holds a special place in my heart. The connection with the audience is irreplaceable, an exchange of energy that transforms each performance into an adventure. It’s not just a showcase but a continuation of the creative process, offering insights that refine my studio work. The stage is where I validate the resonance of my art, engaging directly with the hearts and minds of listeners.

Both the studio and the stage are integral to my artistic journey, each offering unique avenues for exploration and expression.

Is there any funny-unique story you would like to share with us, always in relation to your music ‘career’?

In one of my first DJ gigs (over 15 years ago), I meticulously prepared an hour-long vinyl set. As my set was about to conclude, the next act—a band—wasn’t ready to start, asking me to extend my performance. With no additional records at hand, I had to replay the set’s beginning tracks. fortunately, the set vibe was all about groovy instrumentals, old-school funk, and beats so no one was really noticing and people just kept dancing, hanging, and grooving.

Which track of your own would you point out as the most unique and why?

“It’s Nothing (Something)” stands as a testament to my artistic essence, encapsulating not just my sound but also my visual artistry, lyrical depth, and the myriad of influences that shape my work. This track represents a harmonious fusion of everything I stand for as an artist, making it a significant milestone in my discography.

Would you like to share with our readers your future plans?

My immediate future is marked by the release of my debut album, ‘Spacey Album 1.’ Despite having released over three hours of music on Spotify, this project feels like my first genuine introduction. It comprises 8-12 tracks that I’m particularly passionate about, characterized by fresh production, compelling narratives, and accompanying video clips that bring the music to life in visually stunning ways.

Additionally, I’m in the process of finalizing ‘Nebula,’ a project five years in the making. ‘Nebula’ is designed as an immersive audio-visual experience that combines state-of-the-art technology with innovative art forms to take audiences on an interstellar journey of discovery and connection. I’m exploring platforms for its release that align with the project’s ambitious scope. Previously, I’ve ventured into unique release formats like an augmented reality exhibition and a limited edition VHS cassette for my first beat tape. With ‘Nebula,’ I’m seeking a partnership that can provide a platform as transformative as the project itself, possibly within the realms of advanced technology or the metaverse. I’m open to proposals that can fulfill this vision and invite interested parties to reach out.

Free question!!! (Ask yourself a question) you wish to answer and haven’t been given the opportunity…

My question: it’s nothing?

My answer: It’s Something !

Photo Credits: Lior Alon (main), Yigal Feliks (2nd one)

Curated by: Christos Doukakis

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