Early on Andy Feller discovered a powerful connection to music…one that allowed him the freedom of expression and ability to relate his thoughts, feelings and emotions to others. At first picking up the guitar to learn – he never ended up putting it down and Andy began to form the roots of sincerity in songwriting that would never leave him. Originally from Tampa, Florida – Andy made the most important decision for his music/career with a bold step towards realizing his dreams by relocating to Nashville, Tennessee.
Once moved Nashville, it didn’t take long before Andy took his years of experience writing and refining his sound and songs to the studio to begin the process of bringing his music into existence as Foxkeeper.
With indie-pop/rock melodies, thoughtful lyricism and dreamlike atmospheres – Andy surrounded himself with a team of ace-musicians/producers to assist in the performances and recordings to make sure each of his songwriting efforts reached their full-potential…and that Foxkeeper would offer listeners something truly exciting, hopeful, real and new.
And together, they’ve done it, sincerely. The Beach Dream EP is officially due out in December, 2016.
In this interview feature, we sit down with Andy of Foxkeeper to discuss the new single “Haunted Houses“, influences, navigating the digitized music world and more.
Full Q&A, links and a stream of the single below.
Let’s dive a little deeper into You, the artist and your music. What attracted you to this genre(s) or style(s)?
Interesting question; Guitar has always been my instrument of choice so naturally the music has revolved around that a lot. When I’m writing I’m not really considering the genre it will fall in, but just creating what feels right.
How long have you been creating and sharing your music with the public?
I’ve been writing and playing house shows (forcing my family to listen) since I was 12ish years old. Several bands, genres, shows and cities later here I am.
Who or what influences your playing and/or writing? Also, what motivates you to keep going?
Life in general and all the nitty gritty details influences my writing. Seeing a band you love live is always very inspiring. The communion of sharing in music is this insane thing. It’s an outlet that allows me to express the thoughts, ideas and notes that I’ve arranged.
Were you trying to accomplish anything specific on this new project? Creatively or otherwise?
This being my first legit recording I was really wanting to create a meaningful piece of art that I will always have, obviously If other people also enjoy it along the way, even better.
What was the last song you listened to?
“Remedy” by Night Riots.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
Vinyl is amazing when appropriate -but don’t we all stream jams on Spotify like criminals?
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Speak of the devil. Spotify simply because it is so simple to use and organize playlists on the fly (I was not paid to say this).
Other than the digital era overwhelming us with access to an abundance of music, what are one or two of the biggest challenges you face when trying to attract listeners to your music?
We are so overstimulated with technology in general. It’s hard getting people to care about a song & idea that some strange person they don’t know created (I am that strange person).
Do you gig, tour or perform? Do you ever live stream? Where can music lovers see you live?
I’ve played many a show but nothing recent as this last season of life has been writing and recording. However, my Foxkeeper debut show is in the works, stay tuned for a date.
Where is the best place to connect with you online? Discover more of your music?
You can find all my social media links on the site www.foxkeeper.com; hit subscribe and I’ll keep you up to date on everything coming out.
Any last thoughts? Shout outs? Words of wisdom?
Shout out to everyone that helped in the making of this EP, especially Josh Niles who produced and engineered it in his beautiful studio in Nashville.
This single is just the beginning.
Never give up on your dreams.
F O X K E E P E R
-AF