FVMusicBlog

We were fortunate enough to talk to Bloomfield Machine following the release of his stunning album ‘Suiteness‘. Enjoy the full interview below!

Hi Bloomfield Machine, tell us about yourself?

I’m a multi-instrumentalist, and I’ve been in several bands (the Wondermints, Chewy Marble, Tikiyaki Orchestra/Tikiyaki 5-0, session work) prior to the creation of my solo career as Bloomfield Machine, which began in 2017.

What is your songwriting process?

It varies. I like to fiddle with a small Casio I have while watching something else. When I don’t pay full attention, the coolest things come through. Sometimes, I start with a beat or sample. Lately, it’s a lot of experimentation with sound.

Tell us about your brilliant latest album, ‘Suiteness’?

Most of my work is short–2-3 minutes, so everything is a “suite” using the classical term, so liked the sound of “suiteness” as a title with this bee busy getting the sweet pollen from the flower. This album is a bit more hopeful than the previous one and a little sweeter, as it were, for the ears.

What draws you to the indie-rock genre?

I’m not really drawn to any genre per se. My music draws from a lot of different influences. It’s difficult to describe. It is easier to list some adjectives like: downtempo, ambient, lo-fi, psych, dystopian, cinematic…that about covers it.

‘Suiteness’ is a stunning album, why choose to release an album over singles?

Since the songs are so short, they don’t seem like singles. I also come from an era where you put on an LP, got your headphones, and relaxed into an entire album.

What message do you think your music conveys to your fans?

Since there are no lyrics, I guess the message is to allow yourself time to be transported from your day for a moment. I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed making it!

Who are your musical influences?

My influences range from the Beatles, Zombies, XTC, Radiohead, Casino vs Japan, Boards of Canada, My Bloody Valentine, Gary Numan, Depeche Mode, Elliott Smith, Elvis Costello, the Meat Puppets, and many more.

Who are your non-musical influences?

Robert Crumb, Richard Powers (70s sci-fi artist), Mark Ryden, Mid Century Modern art, architecture, furniture, Blade Runner, Brazil, Philip Dick, Edward Gorey, Mad Magazine, the beach, my Golden Retriever, walking with no cell phone, meditation.

What scares you most when releasing music?

Nothing. Maybe not being able to make another–losing my muse?

What do you think are the biggest obstacles for bands/artists today?

Ourselves.

What advice would you give to other bands/artists starting out?

If you have the gift of being able to play an instrument, sing and create–just do that because you love it, and it brings meaning to your life.

What are your hopes for the next two years?

More people discover my music, and it brings them joy.

FVMusicBlog August 2024

https://www.facebook.com/Bloomfield-Machine-103682937878586/
https://bloomfieldmachine.bandcamp.com/