Blind Lion Transitions into "Spring"
The last time I'd seen Blind Lion was early winter of last year, and they were just coming off of the high of releasing their first EP, "Autumn." After having only been a band for a little less than a year now, they're working on their third EP, "Spring," which drops this month. I love these guys and everything they come out with, so I'm super pumped for this one.
I talked to Larry Flatley, Blind Lion frontman, about what we can expect from the next release in their seasonal series.
Copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography
What was the process of putting "Spring" together like? Where did the songs come from?
"Putting "Spring" together was very similar to the process of putting "Winter" together, in the sense that the majority of it was written all at once in a very short amount of time. I find my writing style changes very often, and writing everything in a short burst helps me to focus more on exactly what I want the songs to sound like. I find if I let songs sit too long, they lose direction and fall apart. There were a few early "Spring" drafts that sound more like the stereotypical idea of what spring is (i.e. sunnier, warmer, etc), but after a few listens I decided to take a different approach. I chose to explore more of the gloomy, stormy side of spring that I feel is often overlooked."
How does "Spring" differ from the "Autumn" and "Winter" EPs?
"I like to think of "Spring" as an amalgam of the two previous EPs; it contains the softer, "cleaner" side of "Autumn," while keeping the new, darker, edge that was showcased on "Winter." That being said, I always try to add a little something different to each EP. "Spring" will be implementing more post-rock, and even grunge themes."
What's the significance of the seasonal theme?
"Seasons for me personally have always affected my mood and my mindset. Whether it be the feeling of nostalgia that seems to follow me in Autumn, or the longing for change and self-reflection that comes with Summer. There are certain songs or artists I listen to that really compliment these different feelings and emotions that seem to come packaged with each season. The Seasons EPs are, in a way, audio depictions of what they are to me, and hopefully others, too. If even one person is able to find comfort, understanding, and help in any of these collections of songs, than I will have succeeded in what I've set out to do."
Copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography
Where can we see you next?
We have a few shows coming up in May and June so far!
Friday, May 5th @ The Asbury in Asbury Park
Wednesday, May 10th @ Boontunes, NJ
Saturday, May 13th @ Goatfest 2K17, NJ
Sunday, May 26th @ The Crossroads w/ Listener, '68, and The Homeless Gospel Choir
Friday, June 2nd @ The Brighton Bar in Long Branch
I can't wait for this next EP, and I can't wait to see how they'll complete "Seasons" with some tracks for Summer. Blind Lion is one of my favorite college bands, and I know there's so much more where "Autumn" and "Winter" came from.
You can find their music on Spotify! Give them a listen!
Copyright Dylan Eddinger Photography