The Regency is a collective of producers formed by Global Heist Recordings (in association with Neurodisc Records) dedicated to producing unique originals and cover songs. Robert Smith, long-time member of electronic outfit Blue Stone (since 2006), plays the role of producer on two new tracks for The Regency, the first of which is an original written by The Regency, “You Don’t Leave Me” and the second is an eclectic twist on the Beatles’ “Dear Prudence”.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with producer Robert Smith about the collective’s style of music, the latest release, challenges 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 live in a nice quiet rural area near Stuart, FL. However, I spend a lot of time in Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Most of the music I create is electronic-based, with lots of organic textures and slower-tempo grooves. The kind of music that’s good to chill to.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep going?
I listen to a wide variety of music genres, anything from classical to metal and country to EDM. But, creating the more down-tempo ethereal sound comes easier to me. With The Regency, I’ve been incorporating a lot of guitar playing, which is something I haven’t had the opportunity to do as much as I’d have liked. Creating music is my addiction. It’s always going on in my head. It’s as necessary to me as breathing.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
The Regency is a different flavor from the music that I’ve done before. I’m incorporating more live elements like guitars, bass and drums. That really makes it feel more earthy and genuine to me. It’s like the difference between walking into a really nice hotel lobby where everything is perfect and set just so, and hiking through the hills to a beautiful cabin in the mountains. Both are wonderful, but two very different experiences. With The Regency, I get to use a broad palette of sounds and styles. My goal is to do the songs justice by finding the right mood and sound for each one.
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)?
Technology has made it so easy for anyone to create anytime, anywhere. Although it’s much easier to create a finished product, you still have to find a way to rise above the crowd to get noticed. There is so much good music out there to compete with. Because the music is so accessible and varied, the lifespan of the songs isn’t as long as it used to be either. People’s tastes change so quickly because there is a nonstop supply of brand new music to find.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more music?
