Following on from the release of his much-loved debut LP 'Life's Little Accidents' in 2021, composer, arranger and producer Michael Peloso has now returned once again to deliver his latest studio album. 'Here From There'.
Teaming up with regular collaborators Marisa Frantz and Matthew Shell for the latest release, 'Here From There' makes for a beautifully warm and embracing listen. Filled with light and shimmering aesthetics, a sweeping atmosphere, and mesmerising vocals layered throughout, he is continuing to cement himself as one of the more alluring names doing the rounds right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him most over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I originally fell in love with the keyboard in my younger school days. I admired players such as David Paich & Steve Porcaro (Toto), Billy Joel, Geoff Downes (Yes & Asia) & Keith Emerson (ELP) & Elton John. I really admired their playing. It was mesmerizing. They made it look so effortless when in fact, it’s far from it.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I loved all kinds of music. It’s best to expose yourself to many styles as possible. Tom Waits is my favourite songwriter on a list of many. I loved 70’s rock (Eagles, Fleetwood Mac) to more modern 80’s & 90’s bands. Too many to list.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The first album that I bought with my hard-earned money was Reo Speedwagon’s Hi-Infidelity. I just loved that Arena Rock sound.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Any song written by any member of The Beatles. Although my favourite song is “I Hope I Don’t Fall in Love With You” by Tom Waits. So, any of those.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I do a lot of observing my surroundings. Try & focus on what’s going on in not only my world, but someone else’s as well. Listening is very important. I don’t have any real habit other than I always write my lyrics out in a notebook first, then I put them to a computer for safe keeping. I try to keep a notepad with me because you never know when inspiration will strike & you don’t want to lose it. If not, it’s into the cell phone the idea goes.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
There are so many great artists out there that I’m really digging right now. I’ll stick to newer artists to answer your question. Katie Pruitt, Andrew McMahon, Scars on 45, Trev Lukather, Mo & Mary Mac, Jets Overhead, Almost Monday, Night Moves, & of course Marisa Frantz & Matthew Shell. That’s just a few. There are so many. We’d be here all day.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
I’d say Paul McCartney or Ringo Starr. The last of The Beatles!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding is seeing how your music touches someone either you know or a stranger. Evoking feeling & seeing their reaction to something you’ve created. Music touches lives & to see that is beyond rewarding. It makes it all worth it.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The music business can be very frustrating. The streaming services & how little they pay artists. It’s beyond disheartening. I also miss the days of albums, cassettes, & CD’s. The whole package form that music used to come in. Not only the music, but the artwork, lyrics & linear notes printed & wrapped neatly. It had soul. Although the sound quality is better, streaming it doesn’t have the same feel for me. I miss those days. It’s just how it is now.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Never, ever give up if you believe strongly in yourself. Take pride in your work & believe in you. I’ve also learned that things will happen when they are meant to happen. Be patient. Whatever happens will be.
-
Michael Peloso's new album 'Here From There' is available to stream now, Check it out in the player below.