The boss of a New York City-based record label, Almamy is first and foremost an artist. And an intriguing one at that, creating quite a buzz lately for his take on a, unheard as of now, Daft Punk's classic. I invite you to read the interview I conducted with the singer in the middle of Manhattan. (Visual by Adr!!)
Mr Z: To start this interview, tell us about your ModyWorks label?
Almamy: I founded the label two and a half years ago. At first it was mostly to release some of my stuff, a series of EPs, then I started to sign other artists that I like. We are 7 acts on the roster now.
Z: Uh-huh. Your own projects ? Anything new coming up?
A: I'm currently writing and recording "The Love", a conceptual EP. The first single will be my cover of Daft Punk's "Digital Love". The EP is also going to be the soundtrack of a short film, directed by Jeffrey Moore.
Z: A short film? What is it about?
A: I can't say too much yet, but it's going to be in black & white and inspired by silent films and Film Noir.
Z: And what is the EP about?
A: It's about love, obviously, but an idealistic kind of love. Utopia, idealism and fantasy are the keywords. I'm very much inspired by sci-fi as well, so I guess it informs the music in a way.
Z: It's going to be very spacey then?
A: Maybe. [laughs]
Z: Is "The Love" a radical change of direction in your sound?
A: It's a progression.
Z: Uh-huh. So tell us more about your influences?
A: Techno, electronic music in general, hip hop productions, machines [long pause] art, experimental cinema, etc...
Z: Lot of influences!
A: Yeah I guess. The funny thing is that even though I'm a singer, I'm not very much inspired by singers. Music is what influences and inspires me the most to make music myself.
Z: Gotta be original!
A: I like to express myself.
Z: What's your Top 5 of favorite artists?
A: F.r.a.c.t.a.l, Daft Punk, Bob Marley, Rebotini, Kanye West.
Z: Who would you like to collaborate with musically?
A: I'd love to work with Arnaud Rebotini, he's one of the best producers ever. An underrated genius.
Z: Would you be willing to move to France to work with him?
A: Absolutely. I would even be willing to sleep on his doorstep. [laughs]
Z: Ok. And who would you like to do a duet or a featuring with?
A: No one in particular, I'm not a huge fan of duets or featuring.
Z: Except a lil' feat with me? [laughs]
A: Oh yeah of course. With you no problem!
Z: Cool! So when are you dropping Digital Love?
A: Soon soon.
Z: Can't wait to hear it!
A: Can't wait to finish it!
Z: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
A: In 10 years? On top of the world. [laughs] I hope I'll still have the opportunity to do what I want and to express myself.Z: The word "express" is a word you're using a lot, at least in this interview!
A: It's important for me to tell my own story. Be it through my lyrics, my beats, my attitude, the sound of my voice... these are my tools.
Z: Is freedom of expression important to you?
A: Of course it is.
Z: What would say to someone who wants to be an artist?
A: Be passionate, really passionate, because it's not worth it if the passion ain't really there to begin with.
Z: Are you performing a lot?
A: It's been a while, cause I've been focused on writing, recording and running my label. But I'll be back on stage as soon as I drop the single. I can't wait!
Z: Are you going to tour or just do few dates in New York?
A: I'm going to tour. Few dates in New York sure. But when the EP get released I'm going to spend the major part of the year on the road. I'll probably go to France and Europe to promote this project.
Z: Are you going to invite other artists to join you onstage?
A: No, I don't think so. It's only me, my co-producers and maybe 2 other musicians. It's gonna be a pretty minimalist set. But to have a local band or a local artist open for me, yes why not.
Z: Cool. Hope you can come to Toulouse!
A: I hope so.
Z: A last word?
A: Don't go out without condoms. [laughs]
More info:
Official Website
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Mr Z
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