Dark Wave

The Creative Journey of Matte BLVCK with Alex and Billy

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Icon Presents Podcast, host Antwon Haynes dives into a captivating conversation with Alex and Billy, the members of the band Matte BLVCK. Known for their darkwave industrial electronic sound, Alex and Billy share their journey, creative process, and the influence of the pandemic on their music. This episode provides an in-depth look at the band’s origins, their approach to music, and what fans can expect from their upcoming projects.

A Lifelong Passion for Music:
Alex and Billy, who have been inseparable since third grade, formed Matte BLVCK with a deep-rooted passion for music. Growing up in a family of musicians, Alex always had music as a part of his life. The band initially started playing hard rock in high school but evolved into a darkwave industrial electronic group, creating cinematic music that tells stories without many lyrics.

Pandemic Inspiration:
The pandemic played a significant role in shaping their debut album. The isolation and uncertainty of the times influenced their music, adding depth and emotion to their work. Both Antwon and the band members discuss how they used the pandemic as an opportunity to create and learn, blending different genres to craft unique sounds.

Blending Old and New Sounds:
Matte BLVCK is passionate about creating music that transcends genres. They blend old and new sounds to produce dark, cinematic tracks that can be enjoyed both in clubs and live performances. Their music combines elements of electronic dance music with darkwave, creating a unique auditory experience for their audience.

Authenticity in Live Performances:
The band’s live shows are a visual and auditory spectacle. Alex and Billy emphasize authenticity, ensuring that their performances are true to who they are rather than just pressing play on a pre-recorded track. With a mix of dark, modern elements, and EDM-style lighting and visuals, their live shows provide a unique and immersive experience.

DIY Approach and Crowdfunding:
Matte BLVCK takes a DIY approach to their music career, relying on crowdfunding and maintaining creative control over their projects. They have learned from past mistakes and now headline tours without the need for labels or agents. Crowdfunding platforms like Indiegogo have helped them engage with fans and fund their music production, ensuring that they can deliver high-quality products on time.

New Album and Creative Expansion:
Alex and Billy are excited about their upcoming sophomore album, which they describe as more mature and focused. They have improved their production skills and experimented with new elements, expanding their sound. Their creative process involves a deep emotional connection to each song, and they enjoy sharing new music with fans during live performances.

Music Creation and Upcoming Tours:
Matte BLVCK’s songwriting process is collaborative and experimental. They often revisit unfinished songs, finding new significance in them over time. Fans can look forward to new music, tours, and continued engagement from the band. Matte BLVCK will be on tour this year, with a show scheduled for March 1st.

Conclusion:
This episode of the Icon Presents Podcast offers a fascinating look into the creative world of Matte BLVCK. Alex and Billy’s journey from childhood friends to a successful band, their DIY approach to the music industry, and their commitment to authenticity in their performances make for an inspiring story. Stay tuned to Icon Presents for more engaging conversations and insights, and follow Matte BLVCK for updates on their upcoming projects and tours.