Tempo Talks: A Conversation with Fish And Scale
THE RELEASE
Musical authenticity that opens the heart - that is what distinguishes the artist Fish And Scale, also known as Roland Wälzlein. He possesses a deep passion for touching people's souls with his music, invoking inner knowledge and wisdom in his listeners. Fish And Scale's artistically arranged songs pay homage to life and reflect its deeper meaning. Sometimes powerful and passionate, other times subtle and soulful, his music always presents itself as different, surprising, and extraordinary. With a growing and dedicated fan base, Fish And Scale is captivating attention worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the independent folk music scene.
The "Wonderful" EP by Fish And Scale explores the depths of self-knowledge and sets out on a profound adventure to uncover the meaning of life. It is a potent investigation of the human spirit that is propelled by an unrelenting quest for happiness, love, and freedom. It becomes a transforming journey in and of itself to break away from cultural ideals that claim true happiness is found in external accomplishments. The song invites listeners to embrace their inherent value and appreciate life's magnificent beauty as they lose themselves in it. The EP perfectly depicts the essence of a deep bond, when the self harmonizes with the enthralling beauty of the planet. Make-believe barriers are broken down, allowing for a true feeling of the present. Finally, "Wonderful" makes it very evident that one already possesses all they seek, illuminating the path to true pleasure. Fish And Scale's EP "Wonderful" is a seductive musical journey that invites listeners to embark on a freeing journey of self-discovery.
THE INTERVIEW
What song or moment in time sparked your passion for music?
I was a 12 year old kid and I listened to “Crusader” by Chris de Burgh.
The song is about the Crusades of Richard the Lionheart and the conquest of Jerusalem. The music is so intense so electrifying, I was there on the battlefield.
If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?
It's hard to say because you're constantly being influenced unconsciously. In any case, Bob Dylan would be a person for my personal Mount Rushmore. Not because he writes song lyrics worthy of a Nobel Prize, but because of his unconditional authenticity. David Bowie would be another candidate just because of the song “Heores”. But most of all Eckhart Tolle is the greatest influence, because with his words he expresses something that is inexpressible, something I experienced within myself, what is so unbelievably great and yet so simple, just realizing that I am here. Since then all my songs are about this world. Starting with “Songs from the inner child” to “You Can Call Me LOVE” to the current EP “Wonderful”.
How does your creative process work from the moment you develop the idea to the completion of the record?
All my songs are “autobiographical“.
All my inspiration comes from my own experiences.
The songs arise spontaneously from within me.
As for this release, who is the producer and what about the production moved you?
The songs were recorded with a wonderful band (Hannes Stegmeier Trio and Julia Fischer on Piano). The recordings took place again in the Katzer Studios in Nuremberg. We produced all the songs together.
When it comes to the songwriting on this record, what is the message you want to get across to your listeners?
I would like to answer this question with a wonderful text by Vanessa Scheich:
"Wonderful" describes various stages of a journey to the origin of the own existence, a journey of self-discovery. The deeply human search for fulfilment, love and freedom is the starting point and leads initially to the urge to follow your own authentic path. This requires freeing yourself from the voices of society that make you believe true happiness is to be gained from external achievements (Don't care). Only then does the true beauty of life become visible and you see your own value, the preciousness of your own existence regardless of your success or failure story (Wonderful). You begin to feel more deeply and recognize yourself in the beauty and magnificence of existence. Suddenly, there is a connection, a merging between you and all that you perceive. (Feel me!) You free yourself from your concepts, your protective walls and facades and stop constructing the world in your mind. Instead, you experience life in the present moment, ultimately realizing that everything you are looking for is already here and no longer needs to be found, because the fulfilment of your longing lies within you (Stay!).
KEEP UP WITH FISH AND SCALE BELOW: