In this interview spotlight, I chat with Lydia Ang about her latest music, challenges, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre classifications.)
I’m from Singapore! Regardless of genre or style, my approach almost always stems from the point of view of a storyteller. Whether it be music for film, improvisation, or songwriting, I try to let the overarching storyline guide my instincts. I also am heavily influenced by, and am drawn to writing in the experimental electro-acoustic medium because I find that playground very liberating.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
Where does one begin. As a kid I trained as a classical pianist and had a love/hate relationship with the lessons. In my teens I discovered music technology and songwriting! I found both very exciting and learned all I could, but I remember feeling like songwriting was something special. In my college years I was immersed in a community of amazing musicians and artists who have been so generous with their knowledge and stories. This is where I really understood the value of learning through experiments and being uncomfortable. What keeps me going today are the unchartered grounds, the creative community I have around me, and the profound effect that music has on my being.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
This is probably a release that’s come from the “darkest” place yet. I wrote this with a couple things I mind. I sought to document, and to heal. I think I’ve managed to do that. You’ll find that within the darkness, songs like Army of One (https://soundcloud.com/lydia-ang/army-of-one) that are my attempts at visualizing a better place to be. Random trivia: I see Army of One as a “sequel song” to Beat of the March from my previous release – you’ll hear the similarities.
I also wanted to see what would happen if I let more of the influences from playing in an improv band into my songwriting process. The results are interesting, to me at least. My being more open to having synthesizer setups has definitely changed the overall sound (for starters it’s made things less piano-centric) and expanded the approaches I’ve taken in this release. I foresee further additions into the pot in future releases!
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
Being truly heard is difficult, especially when your music does not fit nicely in a genre mainstream enough to be listed. Releasing music has never been easier though – so many platforms to choose from!
What was the last song you listened to?
River Floor by Joe Henry. The symmetry. Too cool!
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I do see the advantages of digital formats. But there’s something about holding a CD or Vinyl in your hands and going through the physical motions before listening to the music. I’m also a big fan of good album art and liner notes.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Bandcamp. I like the clean what-you-see-is-what-you-get experience on their site. In second place, streaming platforms like Soundcloud and Spotify. These sites are great for discovering new people to listen to!
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
You’ll find me on Instagram (@lydiaang.studio), Bandcamp (https://lydiaang.bandcamp.com) and Soundcloud (https://soundcloud.com/lydia-ang).
Anything else before we sign off?
I hope that listeners will enjoy what I have created in On Erasure. I’ve tried to push myself to deliver what is true in the moment, and will keep doing so. Also, Thanks Joshua, for having me, for listening to my music, and for providing this opportunity to discuss all that we have!
