After turning out a breadth of riveting releases these last few months, Algerian-Canadian artist Adam Haddour recently delivered his new EP 'Let Me Land', showcased by the immersive new single 'Icarus'.
Capturing more of that broad and emotive alt-pop aesthetic he has been building for himself, 'Icarus' makes for a dazzling return for him. With its bold and euphoric textures, soaring atmosphere, and his own mesmerising vocals at the helm, he continues to shine as one of the more impactful names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The piano, for sure– I grew up listening to Alicia Keys, Elton John and Keane so it was a lot of piano-based music that I would then rush to our piano to replicate (badly).
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Growing up, I listened to a lot of RnB and Soul. Our family car music for the road trips was Confessions by Usher, Mario by Mario and the very Best of Otis Redding.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Elephunk by the Black Eyed Peas
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Hallelujah by Leonard Cohen, I think it is just the perfect song.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
If I am ever having writer’s block, I will take a long shower and try to write in there. Maybe the shower singing is relaxing because I have written most of my music in the shower.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I am always listening to a lot of Frank Ocean and Hozier. Recently I have been getting back into The Weeknd, especially his Starboy album.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Frank Ocean, if he ever comes back to performing. If not, I absolutely love the Black Pumas live show so I would love to open for them.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
It has given me the opportunity to play/record at some amazing places with some really amazing people. My memories at Dean Street Studios, Colours Hoxton and Camden Assembly are ones I will really cherish. If not that, then definitely the high that you get when a song clicks for the first time–That is the best feeling.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The social media side of things can be difficult because that doesn’t always come naturally. Sometimes I feel that, especially as an independent artist, it can take time away from the music but, obviously, I understand it is a very important part of modern music.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Someone once told me to write through all the shit. They said the first things you write are always going to be bad and not to let that put you off. You learn the most about yourself as an artist by writing and releasing music— I have been writing and releasing for years and only now do I feel like I have properly started my journey as an artist.
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Adam Haddour's new single 'Icarus' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.