Tempo Talks: A Conversation with James Bishop
THE RELEASE
Electro Folk pioneer James Bishop is reshaping the music scene creating his electronic folk tunes using only his iPhone while embarking on a life changing 1,400 mile hike, along the Pacific Crest Trail. Over a span of five years Bishop skillfully incorporated the sounds of nature—birdsongs, thunderstorms—into a high fidelity masterpiece that rivals the genius of Bon Iver without relying on fancy equipment. His vocal range spans from lows to a cry reminiscent of Thom Yorke weaving narratives that explore uncertainty and a yearning for deeper meaning. Addressing both the pains passed down through generations and the challenges of modern day hustle culture Bishops music possesses an eerie yet uplifting quality as it merges contemplation with affirming expression. Through this odyssey Bishop delves into the connections between nature, nurture and technology offering a unique perspective, on the fluid boundaries that shape our lives.
James Bishops latest song, "More____ " stands out from his first album BODYBOUND by offering a captivating blend of electronic folk with a touch of the wild. He recorded the song on his iPhone during the aforementioned hike showcasing his ingenuity. With its production and anthemic chorus the track embraces modern pop structures while exploring the complexities of self discovery and the search for meaning. As Bishops misty vocals navigate questions and vulnerability the music resonates with haunting piano chords that capture the juxtaposition of pain and hope at the heart of his creation. "More____" breaks away from folk music. Challenges assumptions about both music and nature representing Bishops five year artistic journey from field recordings to an album that defies genre conventions. This single serves as an introduction to an album that promises to delve into the intersections between nature, nurture, technology and our own boundaries. Don't miss out on immersing yourself in the landscape of "More____" as you eagerly await the full release of BODYBOUND, on February 9th 2024.
THE INTERVIEW
If you had to create a Mount Rushmore of inspiration, what four individuals molded the artist you are today?
There are so many artists I could mention, but it’s family & friends that most immediately come to mind. My mother is a drummer; she taught me rhythm. My father is a classical guitarist; he taught me melody & theory. My uncle is a producer; he introduced me to recording & production. I’ll throw Justin Vernon in there too because the hours I’ve clocked listening to the music he’s made over the years has had a huge impact on what I aim for in my own.
Were there any specific challenges or breakthrough moments during the production of your new single that had a significant impact on its final form?
Like all of the songs on this record, “More_____” is made entirely from found sounds that I recorded while spending five months hiking on the Pacific Crest Trail. Making something that sounded like music out of my collection of sounds from the trail turned out to be a huge challenge. The final form of the record owes everything to that process.
Can you share insights into the collaborative process behind the creation of your latest single, including any notable contributions from producers, co-writers, engineers or featured artists?
This record was a stubbornly solo pursuit, but a few important collaborators do come to mind. My friend Ryan Shoemaker became a significant source of perspective and input for my otherwise isolated creative process. Zackary Darling, who mixed the record, helped make sense of my sometimes chaotic productions. I couldn’t be more thankful for the contributions these two made.
Can you articulate the impact or impression you hope your new song leaves on listeners long after they've experienced it for the first time?
I hope there will be people who will listen to this music in such a way that it becomes a companion of thought and feeling in a meaningful moment or season of their life.
Looking ahead, how does the release of this single pave the way for future projects, and are there any hints or clues about the direction your music might take in the coming months?
I have a record coming out Febraury 9th, 2024. It's called BODYBOUND. There’s a lot that could happen and I just hope this music can find its people.
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