Following on from their highly-praised initial offerings 'SFBM' and 'Selfless' earlier this year, UK-based duo OWN DEVICES are back on the grind once again to deliver their breezy new single 'Blue Light'.
Bringing back more of that warm and shimmering aesthetic they are quickly earning a reputation for, 'Blue Light' makes for an incredibly rich and woozy listen. With its progressive approach to production set to some wondrous vocals throughout, they are certainly looking to sweep us off our feet with this one.
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 over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Daniel: Drums. It was love at first beat, literally.
Tarik: My guitar, without a doubt! Bought with lunch money I saved up. It became my outlet for expression and made the world's troubles pause whenever I strummed. I've never put it down since!
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
D: I grew up on a heavy dose of Soul, Motown & Reggae from young, then onto Michael Jackson, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix to name a few. All timeless artists I still listen to.
T: I went through many musical phases as a kid. Started with Eminem and DMX from ripped CDs, then Linkin Park and Nu-Metal. '60s and '70s rock, and Jazz Fusion. The journey continues.
What was the first album you remember owning?
D: Daniel Bedingfield - Gotta Get Thru This.
T: Linkin Park - Hybrid Theory!
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
D: All I Do - Stevie Wonder. It’s just an absolute jam.
T: Blackbird - The Beatles. Literally one of the most perfectly written pieces of music on the guitar.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
OD: We experiment with sounds and instruments, allowing ourselves to play freely without any pressure to produce something specific. We never get bored and always find new surprises when we play.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
D: Nothing current that is on repeat but shoutout to Mk.gee who’s got some great vibes going. And I listen to Lord Echo whilst in the car - great vibes for driving.
T: Nothing current at the moment but there's this sudanese singer called Jamal Farfoor the song is called “Besma”, such a great song! and Antonio Carlos and Jacofi "Glorioso Santo Antonio" - proper Tropicalia summer vibes. Keeps me positive in these crazy times!
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
OD: Ooo.. that is a tough one. Probably Erykah Badu, Arthur Verocai or Unknown Mortal Orchestra.. If we had a time machine then definitely Jimi Hendrix and The Mahavishnu Orchestra!
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
OD: Being able to create moments that can be shared.
And what is the most frustrating part?
OD: Not doing it full time... yet! haha.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
D: The most powerful and lasting music comes from a place of authenticity.
T: Listen! The silence is just as important as what you play.
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OWN DEVICES' new single 'Blue Light' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.