With a strong fondness for all things 80s and the aesthetic it brings, US producer Owen Murphy aka Mi Luz has now condensed his love for the sound on his new self-titled EP.
Also taking cues from the indie-pop and dream-pop scenes, 'Mi Luz' makes for a bold and vibrant introduction to his sound. Blending fun and bouncing electronics with his bright and soaring vocals sees him follow in the footsteps of Passion Pit with this sweet and captivating ode to the era.
So with his new collection available now, we sat down with him to find out more about his background and what has inspired him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The trumpet. This was the first instrument I focused on, growing up I played in local ensembles and orchestras. I even auditioned to attend music conservatory on the instrument. I performed the Arturian Trumpet Concerto in A♭.
What has been the most prominent inspiration behind your music so far?
Like anyone creating art, I can only draw on my own experiences. I’ve had the opportunity to work with many great artists as a supportive member. Their impact is certainly present in my own music.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
While away on summer camp I borrowed (and lost) from my dads CD collection including nearly all of Pink Floyd's body of work, Genesis Lamb Lies Down on Broadway side 1 & 2, U2’s Joshua Tree, Unforgettable Fire, Zooropa, The Cure’s Disintegration, Talking Heads Remain in Light… I’m sure he remembers a few that I’ve missed.
Can you remember the first song that made you want to pursue a life in music?
I don’t think I could attribute any single song or artist to that. I was always exposed to music, following my sister who performed electric and double bass and went on to teach music professionally. Being competitive, it was only natural for me to want to go on into the same field.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I was just gifted a vinyl of the Beatles Abby Roads that’s being warn down pretty well, also been powering through Weezer and Foo Fighters body of work this past week. What I’m listening to will change with my mood.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Most of my writing process is sort of unconscious, I find myself listening to it like an observer and then attribute meanings to the lyrics after the fact. I have personal associations with all of my songs.
What has been the most unusual moment in your career so far?
At times you can be hungry for any opportunity, and at times it can all hit you at once. This was the latter. I was able to open to a sold out crowd at the Music Hall of Williamsburg with the group I was playing in at the time, do a 20 hour AV gig, and culminate with sleeping on the venue floor for 2 hours before helping load in and mix for the front man of Green Day. I was able to feel like a rock star, grind doing a wedding gig, and then mix for one of my favourite rock stars all in a 72 hour period.
Outside of music, what is your biggest passion?
I am a bit obsessed with exotic birds at the moment having 6 at home, not the best pet for home recording!
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
…Mom? Love you! Joking aside, I’m not really sure. I’ve done some broadcast and video production in the past, but music has always been the driving force for me. Something that earns a lot of money? That would be nice.
And what advice would you give to other musicians looking to start a career in music?
Be the person in the room who can get it done, from playing the instrument to turning the knobs with that special magic, to organising the team, you need to be able to do it all! Expect failure, learn and try try try again.
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Mi Luz's new self-titled EP is available to stream and download now. Have a listen to it in the player below.