THESE OTHER LIVES is the second EP in a series. How do you feel the second EP differs from the first and is there an overall theme for the series?
It is a sonic continuation of what we started in part one, especially from a narrative point of view, but I think my bandmate Charles captures it perfectly when he said, “What began with uncertainty and longing in Part One ends with greater confidence and wisdom in Part Two.”
What inspired GLYPHIC? Do you have a favorite line in the track?
GLYPHIC was always meant to be a dance track that had a real emotional core to it, one that reflected a final moment before letting someone go, yet always retaining that tiny kernel of hope that you can get past it. It is almost a song about emotional addiction. My favorite line is “The vision slowly fades, to nothing but the sound” because in the end, it is always about getting lost in the music.
What are some of your creative influences? Favorite music, films, comic books?
There is so many to name, but for me it starts and ends with a few key influences, mostly Peter Hook of New Order, Depeche Mode, and the late great Gustavo Cerati. I am still trying to capture the emotions their music makes me feel. I am always looking for newer music to influence me, and I am really into Brother tiger, Andre Obin and bands like Missing Words, who we co-wrote the song LEFT BEHIND with. I usually always have a movie on in the background when I am working, as it leaves my ears free to focus on the sounds. I will not say which films, but it is a wide range of stuff.
As for comics, I come from a background in writing them, so there is a lot to choose from there, but usually I always go back to my hero Frank Miller and I am constantly reading manga or watching anime.
When did you begin Trade Secrets and how as the musical collective evolved throughout the years?
I began TS about 4 years ago while I was stuck home dealing with an illness. It allowed me to interact with my friends and keep my brain moving during a tough time. It all sort of easily fell into place and as I recovered it became my primary musical project. Even though we are not in the same place, technology lets the core band collaborate closely on the songs. These guys all have their own respective projects, so they I get to be the sort of the conductor who keeps the machine running.
What do you hope your listener takes from the new EP?
I hope they can take what their heart longs and hurts for and find comfort in the journey we have produced.
