L. Martin On: Recording solo, creating a legacy, and "No Plan B's"
L. Martin, copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography
Luke Olson, former frontman of the wildly energetic and nostalgically groovy The Walters, is now taking the stage as L. Martin to pursue a long-awaited solo career. Following the release of two singles to prepare for his upcoming 2018 album, "Dirty Sheets" and "Blue Skies," it's evident that Martin has been waiting a long time to put out music that is so unequivocally himself.
I emailed Luke a few weeks back to learn anything that I could about this new phase in his career; going solo is a bold move after fronting a successful band for the last handful of years, but he's nothing but confident about what the future holds.
What's your musical background? We don't know much about you and we'd love to know more. Who are your biggest influences?
LM: I picked up guitar and piano after quitting acting school in New York City. I just wanted to be able to write my own songs. i've actually never learned a cover of someone else's music, nor do I know how to read music. I pick up things from each artist I listen to subconsciously, but I try to focus on myself and how I can carve out my own legacy. I'm really into songwriter Jessica Pratt right now.
What is fueling the new L. Martin project? Do you feel like you have unfinished business musically?
LM: I've always been pretty motivated but I guess you could say I'm even more motivated right now. I've had so many songs I've wanted to make the last few years, and now I have the ability to make them without hesitation I have a responsibility to continue onward, and I owe it to my family who has invested so much into me, and all the fans who loved my work in The Walters, and most importantly, I owe it to myself. I've said many times on stage that "there is no plan B," so now I will live that as long as I'm here.
What can we expect from L. Martin?
LM: I'm going to release a lot more music now that I'm a solo artist. I'm also moving back to New York City in a few months and I plan on auditioning for Broadway shows in between touring as L. Martin. Also, an L. Martin clothing collection is in the works.
"Blue Skies" and "Dirty Sheets" are great songs. Are you in the works of an EP or album? What's that process looking like?
LM: I'm working on an album with Chicago producer Luke Otwell. It's pretty cool working with someone who is also Luke O. We are looking at a February/March release.
I know lots of people in Philadelphia love your stage presence from The Walters. Knowing that this solo project is something that lead to the end of The Walters (via Instagram sources), will L. Martin be just as energetic and dancey, or do you have a different vibe in mind?
LM: I can't say it'll be the same as The Walters, but what I can say is that I will still perform as hard as I can, and naturally that brings out the wild man in me. Energy is an interesting thing, because you could stand totally still the whole show but still have incredible energy in your voice and spirit. When I get onstage, I'm looking to unleash all the fire inside of me.
Any plans for a tour? When can we see you in Philadelphia?
LM: I will be coming to Philly in April on a tour that I can't announce just yet :)
You can stream L. Martin's singles "Dirty Sheets" and "Blue Skies" now, and be on the lookout for more releases early next year.