Sivan Langer’s fascination with music came at an early age. As a kid, he would play covers of Paul Simon’s Graceland on kitchen trash cans (and consequently was forced to move out of the house).
The open-hearted music created by the artist combines blues and rock influences to resonate a voice that traces back to its blues-rock, punk, grunge, and local roots. While the musician’s creations form a wide-ranging emotional rainbow, the lyrics are occupied by social issues and other untraversed subjects.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Sivan Langer about the latest music, dream collabs, musical memories and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
What’s something you’d like readers to know about your latest project?
It’s my first album it’s got so many genres and influences so everyone might find themselves connected with this one at one or other songs
How does this project compare with your other release(s)? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?
Previous releases were more of stripped-down demonstration tracks. Good ol’ acoustic guitar and vocals, rural style. Unfortunately, some people didn’t “get it,” but that what it was. And I was happy to record some of this stuff as a means of documentation.
What motivates you to create music?
I just feel it adds something special. I like art and science, nature, and travel. Anything that makes up something special in this world is worthwhile. For me, a 9 to 5 is too repetitive, I’ll do it if I had to, but I rather have more challenges than being a fixable screw in a big machine.
What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to create?
I grew up in a community and every summer there were movies playing on our 16-inch projector. The movies were circulating between all those communities in the region. One of those films was Yellow submarine by the Beatles. I especially loved the part of the Dreadful Flying Glove because probably like the one who came up with it (was it John Lennon?) I was always told that there are “proper” ways to go about everything. But did everything how I’ve seen fit. That Scene is still a great influence on me. I think it takes some courage to be different in a place where you are asked to be conforming and regular.
If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.
Probably Bob Dylan, one of my coming album songs is half a tribute to him. He’s the age of the parents of friends I grew up with. and he is a great influence of mine, more than his songs even.
What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favorite all-time bands/artists?
Elvis Presley’s Suspicious Minds, I recently saw the movie about his relationship with his manager Tom Parker. It was pretty interesting and intense. Elvis made his mark on popular culture everywhere and the Mississippi area is fascinating in its own right. It’s such a different place than where I grew up, in the Galilee. I think the place where you grow up affects you tremendously, and it affects your art and the way you think about everything.
Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?
Instagram @sivanlangermu or sign up to my email on my website sivanlanger.com
I really appreciate Your time. Anything else before we sign off?
Thanks so much for the interview. I think the indie wave is the next big thing in music, and it’s not just the music and musicians. There are whole communities behind that. My music is quite emotional but not in a cheesy way, so be sure to give my songs a couple of spins
