Have you ever wondered what drives an artist to create a particular album? What's the story behind the music, and why does it transport us through time like a well-worn record? In this blog, we're about to embark on a musical journey filled with passion, rediscovery, and heartfelt dedication.
This album is more than just a collection of songs; it's a testament to my growth as an artist. It's a heartfelt dedication to those who have inspired and supported me along the winding path of my musical career. I'm thrilled to take you on this ride, a musical diary that encapsulates the highs and lows of my creative journey.
In the world of music, there's a unique charm in revisiting one's roots and reminiscing about the songs that have shaped our artistic journey. It's like opening a time capsule of memories, each song a snapshot of who we were and where we were headed.
Our journey begins with a blast from the past, long before CDs became the norm. At the tender age of 12, I received a gift that would ignite my passion for music – a speaker with two cassette decks and a red microphone. Surprisingly, my parents still have it in their basement. With this humble device, I embarked on my first music production by recording U2's "Van Diemen's Land." I vividly remember the thrill of hearing the result, the delight of my very own creation.
Around the age of 17, I composed "The Way Of Love," my very first English song, and dedicated it to two wonderful people on their wedding day. Little did I know that this was just the beginning of my artistic journey.
The songs on this album span the four years that followed, born from the emotional chaos of that time. "Mr. Busy" reflects my intense anger and disappointment, while "Once Again" and "Send Me An Angel" delve deep into feelings of emptiness and loneliness.
"The Pity Song" was a collaboration and won many prizes at national and international school projects.
I moved to the Netherlands at the age of 22, filled with aspirations and dreams. It was a time of new beginnings, building a career, and eventually starting a family. However, it was also during this phase that I put my musical ambitions on hold.
Fast forward to about five years ago, I found myself at a crossroads, rekindling my love for music. This phase was marked by challenges and moments of self-doubt, a period when I considered giving up singing and songwriting. It was during this challenging time that I stumbled upon the Home Recording Academy, where I owe a heartfelt "Thank You" to Dr. Isobel Anderson for creating a safe and supportive space exclusively for women aspiring to learn the art of music production.
For my final project at the Home Recording Academy, I recorded and dedicated "Van Diemen's Land" to the little girl within me who had always known that music was her true calling.
I decided to refine this newfound craft by revisiting my old songs. I had the privilege of working with very talented musicians. Two of them have already been part of my musical projects in the past, which makes it even more special to collaborate with them again on this album.
Two years of hard work, alongside my many other tasks, went into this album. I learned and experimented with new techniques, recognizing the need to complete the album by the end of 2023 as I yearn to start working on my new songs next year. It may not be perfect or top-notch, but that's okay.
I'm incredibly proud of "A Blast From The Past" as it reflects a tremendous period of growth and learning. It embodies moments of being overwhelmed and overjoyed, of feeling insecure and very certain, and it captures the highs and lows of my artistic path.
Above all, the most important lesson learned is that every song is a piece of art, much like a painting. My piece of art. Each track is my own creation, coming straight from the heart.
So, let's embark on this journey through time and music, rediscovering the passion and dedication that have fueled my artistic voyage. Will you join me on this musical adventure?
Release Date: 24.11.2023
Credits:
Thomas Hanak (drums, percussions, backing vocals, bass)
Matthis Anderle (guitars, bass, keyboard)
Agnieszka Olek (violin)
Yulia Snegur (harp)
Markus Schallamon (keyboard)
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