Having already established herself on the scene with a flurry of impactful outings these last few years, Montreal-based artist LAURIA is now looking to cement her vibrant legacy to date with the release of her long-awaited debut album 'MOON'.
Capturing more of that warm and shimmering aesthetic she has become synonymous with since she first emerged, this new eight-track collection makes for an incredibly immersive listen. Jam-packed with raw and emotive textures, a sweeping atmosphere, and her own compelling vocals at the helm, 'MOON' continues her ascent as one of the more captivating names doing the rounds right now.
So with the new album available to stream now, we sat down with her to find out more about her origins and what has been inspiring her lately.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
The guitar! My uncle played the guitar and the bass and I thought he was so cool, I just couldn't wait to be just like him.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
All kinds, my parents would play Zouk, a dancing genre from the french Caribbeans and I'd vibe to it. But I'd listen to pop too, Destiny's Child and Rihanna were probably my favourites as a kid.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Rihanna's Music of the Sun.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
There's so many, but at the moment it's Escapism by RAYE & 070 Shake.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
Another artist once taught me how to "make yoghurt" as she called it, it's the process of creating melodies to an instrumental while singing gibberish. It allows your brain to only focus solely on creating the melody of what you'll sing without having to think of writing the right lyrics. I was a young teenager when she told me about this technique, I had never thought about it before, and while I'm still grateful today for her sharing that little piece of wisdom she could give me, I still to this day have no idea why she called it "making yoghurt"!
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
At the moment, Janelle Monae, her new album is divine! I also really love listening to Naïka and Snoh Alegra.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
At the risk of being cliche, Rihanna. I am one of the delulus waiting for the album still. Either her or Erykah Badu.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Performing with my band is truly one of the best feelings in the world for me.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Promotion, content creation. In this digital age, it's obviously necessary but it's not my cup of tea.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
It's never too late, if you keep at it.
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LAURIA's debut album 'MOON' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.