After establishing themselves with a wealth of rich and shimmering gems these last few years, emerging DIY alt-rock project The Call From Upstairs are now back for 2024 with the release of their vibrant new single 'Fading'.
Inspired by a spectrum of artists including Depeche Mode, Interpol, The Cramps, Joy Division, Roy Orbison, and Lana Del Rey, 'Fading' makes for a beautifully warm and endearing listen. With its progressive post-punk-inspired energy set to some wondrous vocals throughout, they return to the fold with one of their most alluring releases yet.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and what has been inspiring them most lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I’ve been playing piano all of my life and love how much of a gateway instrument it was, for I was able to learn how to sing and guitar from what the keys taught me.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
Back in highschool I was a huge hip hop head. Especially 90s west coast.
What was the first album you remember owning?
First album I owned was a CD of Meteora by Linkin Park.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There are many songs that I’m jealous of, but if I had to pick one, it’d be ‘A Girl Like You’ by Edwyn Collins. I think the retro aesthetic and simplistic catchiness is genius.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I’ve found going on long late night drives is a great way to get the creative gears turning.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Some of my favorite artists right now include Cigarettes after Sex, Orville Peck, and Lebanon Hanover. I also find myself returning to the classics like Roy Orbison, Elvis, and Depeche Mode.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
It would be a dream to open for a band that inspired me such as Depeche Mode or New Order.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
For me, the most rewarding part is getting an idea for a song, developing a vision for how it should sound, then realizing that vision.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part is the terrifying period of time in between waves of inspiration.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Always trust your instinct and make music that you would want to listen to.
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The Call From Upstairs' new single 'Fading' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.