INTERVIEW : Eva Swan
Equal parts raw power and finesse, Eva Swan’s music distills the contradictions of urban life. Organic beauty meets mechanical form on her new techno EP, Let Me Hold You. Every listen reveals new details and mysterious intricacies, probably stemming from the multifaceted artist’s music training, as well as her involvement in the Belgian club scene. We had a chat with Eva to discuss the creation of her EP and the circumstances surrounding it.
What were your desires when you started working on your Let Me Hold You EP? What inspired it?
Let Me Hold You EP is dedicated to my Mom. She was diagnosed with amyloidosis 3.5 years ago. So far, there’s no cure. But treatment can help manage signs and symptoms.
The first treatment was chemotherapy. A few months later, we were told by the doctor that it was necessary to perform a bone marrow / stem cell transplant. In this medical procedure, the patient is quarantined for a short period. Before we could visit her, we were put in an in-between room where we could disinfect our hands and put on a mask, protective jacket and gloves. It was not possible to hold her. That hurt. But her eyes were always shining, and you could feel the zest for life and perseverance in the room. To date, she is still stable and is monitored regularly. Her eyes keep twinkling and her optimism grows every day. What a source of inspiration.
Has this EP marked an evolution in your creative process? If so, how has it shaped you as an artist?
Yes, this is my first four-track EP. I worked out the vocals in more detail together with my vocal coach Hilde Verheyen. Finishing the mixdown was a big step forward. I did this myself this time after additional feedback from Pelican Street Studios. I worked with photographer Alexander Atlesque on the art cover. We also wanted to create a very tender and intimate feeling. Additional preparations were previously required, so that the shoot went perfectly, and we could capture the right image.
Is there a production tool or a piece of gear that especially inspires you at the moment?
I like to keep everything simple. A classical piano inspires me the most. I like synthesizers and minimalist melodies. They will be discussed even more in the next EP, which will be released in October 2020. In addition, the DAW software Ableton Live 10 Suite is also a very great source of inspiration. Once you have mastered the basics, it is very easy to use. It allows you to fully focus on the creative side of production. A blissful feeling.
How did you approach the vocals on Together?
Since my mother's immunity is not the same as a healthy person, we are extra wary during the winter months. A minor cold can quickly progress to something more serious.
The lyrics of Together were formed in January 2020 and, after that, the melody came intuitively. I like to keep the tonal differences small to match the techno vibes. Symbolically, I wanted to express that she could use some of my energy to be stronger during this time of the year.
When you think about the creative process surrounding your new EP, is there a moment that stands out? Something you’ll remember for a long time?
The recording of the vocals Together is memorable. I have redone it countless times. I wanted the right atmosphere, perfect pronunciation, good tone… To sing all the details at the same time was a huge challenge.
When all the tracks were ready to send to the master engineer, I was overwhelmed with such fantastic and intense feelings: very happy and very grateful. A moment that is etched in my memory for the rest of my life.
Has the place where you live influenced the music you make?
I live in Belgium. The scene has certainly influenced me. I worked in clubs and came into contact with various artists. This allowed me to feel which style suited me, what gives me the most energy and what I like to dance to. As a result, I have found a genre that I really feel good about and that I can enjoy creatively. I love the industrial vibe that still gives you a club feeling.
What’s the first track you heard that made you feel like making the music you’re producing now?
It was not one track. Artists I saw live at work formed my unique sound. SHDW & Obscure Shape, DAX J and Fjaak are entertainers who have had an especially big influence. That underground feeling, pure raw sounds, rehearsal, high quality of the productions and the details you hear between minimalism? I am a fan.
Who are some of the artists that you’ve discovered recently and that inspire you?
At the moment I am listening to Mayeul. The tracks Allnite and Synchronize are completely my thing. Milton Bradley, Edge of Motion, Aert and KLAMER as well. I Thought You Came from the Afterlife by KLAMER has fantastic vocals and organ music. Finally, Danilo Incorvaia and Makaton are also in my new DJ sets.
What’s next for Eva Swan?
We are busy with bookings for the end of 2020 and spring / summer 2021. Upcoming talents will also be launched on Eva Swan Records and I will be releasing two more EPs in 2020. You can expect the next EP on October 16th and we will close the year with a last release on December 14th, 2020. So, lots of parties and lots of new music!
Let Me Hold You EP is available now on vinyl.
Follow Eva Swan
Website | Spotify | SoundCloud | Instagram | Facebook