We were lucky enough to catch up with DAVID ARKENSTONE following the stunning album release ‘Quest For The Runestone‘. Enjoy the full interview below!
Hi David, tell us about yourself.
I currently live in beautiful California near the ocean, which has always been inspirational to me. I am originally from the Chicago area. My first album, Valley in the Clouds, was released in 1987, and I’ve been releasing music ever since. My latest album ‘Quest For The Runestone’ is now available worldwide, and I’m excited to share the news!
What is your songwriting process?
I usually start with one instrument, whether it’s a keyboard sound or guitar or stringed instrument or drum rhythm. Then I try to come up with something that intrigues me.
I develop it layer by layer into something meaningful. At times I have an idea in mind to begin with; other times the idea forms along the way.
Tell us about your brilliant latest release, ‘Quest For The Runestone’?
I’ve always loved Celtic and epic cinematic music. I was watching a program on BBC that was about runestones, ancient stones with inscriptions found in Scandinavia. It was very interesting to me, and I felt it was a subject I needed to explore through music.
I wrote one song and had a sketch of a few others when I asked my son if he would write a story to be included with the recording. He is a writer, and he delivered to me words filled with powerful imagery that further inspired me. Once I had the storyline to follow, it was much like scoring a movie.
‘Quest For The Runestone’ is a stunning concept album. What drew you to write a release like this?
My last few recordings were very ‘minimal,’ with piano and string quartet or piano and a solo cellist. I was feeling the urge to do something more epic, conceptual and adventurous.
Earlier in my career I did several recordings that included a map and a story, and fans seemed to really enjoy the whole experience. A lot has changed since the time of those albums.
Music consumption now has become mainly’ track based,’ meaning people commonly listen to playlists of songs from various artists. I wanted to create something epic that would be an engaging experience from start to finish.
The limited edition CD comes with the complete story and special keepsakes, including a unique runestone.
You are a multi-grammy award-nominated composer, how does that feel?
It’s always nice and exciting to be recognized by your peers, of course, though I don’t create music necessarily for the awards possibilities. I write music all the time because it’s what I love to do.
Who are your musical influences?
The Chieftains, Peter Gabriel, Jean Sibelius, Tchaikovsky, Arvo Part.
Who or what are your non-musical influences?
I am influenced by nature, movies, travel, J.R.R. Tolkien, and impressionistic paintings, among many other things.
What scares you most when releasing music?
Nothing really scares me about releasing music. I actually get very excited when I’m about to share my latest creation with the fans and the general public. I’m always pleased when people communicate their enjoyment. The challenge is reaching as many people as possible.
What do you think are the biggest obstacles for bands/artists today?
I think the biggest obstacle to any kind of success is what you carry with you. If you’re not completely passionate and confident in what you do, it probably won’t happen. Navigating the current music business of course also has its challenging aspects, whether it’s streaming or social media or touring.
What advice would you give to other bands/artists starting out?
Definitely to work on your music until you think it’s perfect, make sure you have the business aspects covered, and do whatever you can to gather fans and supporters.
What are your hopes for the next two years?
In the next two years, I’m hoping to create even more music, tour in Europe and Asia, and travel the world!
FVMusicBlog July 2024
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