In this interview spotlight, I chat with Mickey O’Brien about the latest project (Grace), adapting during the pandemic, technology and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and how do You describe your style of music?
True school hip-hop mixed with blue collar punk.
How did you get here? As in, what inspired or motivated you to take on this journey through music and the music biz?
I’ve always know that this what I wanted to do with my life. I have a full time day job as an underground miner and it’s just to fund my artwork. My whole existence is centred around creating music and writing songs, it’s like a switch in my brain that doesn’t turn off.
How does your latest project compare/contrast with your previous release(s)? Were you setting out to accomplish anything specific, follow a specific theme, or explore different styles of creation?
At the beginning of the pandemic I went throughout a break up followed by a relapse, and like everyone I was in isolation and forced to just sit in my feelings and deal with my shit. The record is about self transformation. I made a promise to myself that I was going to change my life for the better and not look back.
Name the biggest challenge you faced as a creative during these unprecedented times? How did you adapt? How have you kept the creative fires burning during all this?
I never stop working, I’m always doing something. This album I gave myself strict deadlines because we had to get it in to get pressed on vinyl way in advance, so I would wake up in the morning and force myself to write. I’ve heard of people frowning upon this but I don’t know what they’re talking about ‘cause I was killing shit everyday.
What was the last song you listened to?
Derek Christoff | The Suboxone Diaries
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? 8-tracks? Cassettes? CDs? MP3s? Streaming platforms?
Vinyl for listening. Cassettes for the artwork.
Where is the best place to connect with you and follow your journey?
I really appreciate your time. Anything else before we sign off?
I just wanna give a big shout out to my brothers Fresh Kils and Max Moon! And wish everyone a safe summer of watching live music really loud and dancing heir hearts out! I really missed performing for y’all!!
