After establishing himself with a wealth of enigmatic gems these last few years, genre-bending artist American Male has now returned to deliver his diverse new EP 'Now You Know'.
Featuring the previously unveiled offerings 'Bodybag', 'Gelato', and 'Bounce It', the new six-track collection makes for a wonderfully adventurous and inventive listen. Filled with bold and expressive textures, a vibrant atmosphere, and his own distinctive vocals at the helm, 'Now You Know' cements him as one of the more innovative names on the rise right now.
So with the new EP available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has inspired him most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Guitar. My uncle played when I was a kid, he helped teach me. In middle and high school, I got into the hardcore scene and became obsessed with guitar.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
My brother and I were in hardcore bands growing up, and that was the type of music I gravitated towards. It was rebellious, energetic, and angsty. Like me.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Ha, it was probably a backstreet boys CD.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Easy. Nights by Frank O.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Whenever I’m going into writing mode, I try to slow down my intake. I delete socials from my phone. I slow down the happy hours, and dinner hangs. I start journaling more to get into the practice of producing instead of consuming. I fast from food at times and try to sit in silence a bit more. It feels like a ritual cleanses to get in touch with what’s happening inside me.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Tony Velour, Jasiah, Saint Pressure, Twin Stacks, Wizkid, Lykke Li.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Probably Pharrell, tbh. One of my GOATS.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Art of any kind (but especially music) can last forever. Money comes and goes. Relationships come and go, and status comes and goes. The art you create can speak about you for centuries. Pretty sick to think about my future grandchildren being able to experience my work decades later.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Releasing music is heart-wrenching. You put your soul, energy, and time into creating something honest and that you are excited about. Then, when it's time, you post it online and just pray someone cares, but even that experience is beautiful.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Care less. Just create work that you are excited about and that you will be proud of. Everything else is out of your control. Enjoy making art you love.
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American Male's new EP 'Now You Know' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.