In the ever-evolving world of music, discovering artists who seamlessly blend different genres to create a unique sound is always a thrilling experience. Pearl Poet, the dynamic duo of Kyle Malone and Jeremy Baugh, stands out with their distinctive fusion of electro pop, psychedelic rock, and dance pop. Both artists bring rich musical backgrounds and diverse inspirations, making their collaboration an exhilarating journey for music lovers. In this exclusive interview, Kyle and Jeremy share insights into their musical journey, style, and the creative process behind Pearl Poet.
The Journey of Pearl Poet
Kyle Malone: Music has always been in my blood, thanks to my father, a legendary bass player in the Southeast. My passion for music production was ignited during my teenage years, influenced by the works of Brian Wilson and Motown. Albums like The Beach Boys’ “Pet Sounds” and Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” were pivotal in shaping my musical direction.
Jeremy Baugh: My musical journey began in high school, fueled by the raw energy of punk rock and its rebellious spirit. Over time, my influences expanded to include funk, soul, and jazz, enriching my musical palette and deepening my connection to the stories and messages conveyed through music.
Crafting a Unique Sound
Kyle Malone: Describing our musical style is always a challenge. We incorporate elements of electro pop, psychedelic rock, and nu disco, creating a sound that many find refreshingly unique. Our music often explores themes of nature, spirituality, and personal relationships, reflecting our diverse inspirations.
Jeremy Baugh: Our approach to music production involves blending dance music techniques with classic pop songwriting. This allows us to explore various ideas and themes, resulting in a sound that is both innovative and familiar.
Influences and Inspirations
Kyle Malone: My musical mentor, Luke Steele of Empire Of The Sun, played a significant role in my development. Influences from The Beach Boys, The Beatles, and Marvin Gaye, among others, have also been crucial. These artists' innovative approaches and profound musicality inspire our work with Pearl Poet.
Jeremy Baugh: I draw a lot from house and EDM artists, such as Gorillaz and Tom Misch, who brilliantly blend dance production with solid songwriting. This fusion of styles is something we aim to achieve with Pearl Poet, constantly seeking new ways to innovate and connect with our audience.
The Songwriting Process
Kyle Malone: Our songwriting process is eclectic, drawing inspiration from various sources like history, nature, and personal experiences. Typically, we start with instrumental tracks, laying the groundwork before adding lyrics. This method allows us to craft a soundscape that fully embodies the themes we wish to explore.
Jeremy Baugh: Often, our songs begin with a keyboard sound that captures Kyle's interest. I then add drums and bass, gradually building the track before we add lyrics and other elements. This iterative process ensures that each song evolves organically, capturing the essence of our inspiration.
Visual Artistry and Future Directions
Kyle Malone: Visual elements are integral to our music. With a background in filmmaking and photography, I’m heavily involved in the creation of our music videos and album artwork. These visuals complement our music, enhancing the overall experience for our listeners.
Jeremy Baugh: While Kyle leads the visual direction, I provide technical and creative support. Our collaborative efforts ensure that the visual aspects of Pearl Poet resonate with our music’s themes and moods.
Conclusion
Pearl Poet is more than just a band; it’s a creative journey that continually evolves. Kyle Malone and Jeremy Baugh bring their unique experiences and influences to the table, crafting music that defies categorization and resonates deeply with listeners. As they continue to explore new sounds and visual styles, Pearl Poet promises to remain a captivating force in the music industry. For aspiring musicians, their message is clear: stay true to your passion, embrace creativity, and let your intuition guide you on your musical journey.
