In our latest artist spotlight, we chat to Luis Vasquez about The Soft Moon’s progression, and sonic development.
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S] What would you say your biggest challenges are now, as an artist?
Pushing forward sonically while maintaining my origins with The Soft Moon. Ultimately I write music for myself, but I can’t help trying to please everyone, and sometimes I feel that’s what holds me back the most. I can’t stop myself from growing as a human being, and because of this I want to evolve and explore new territories within The Soft Moon, but I can’t be so radical with change. However, I think as an artist there’s an intelligent way to evolve and bring the fans along with you, and this is what I’m currently working on.
S] ‘It Kills’ sounds pained, what guilt, and other emotions went into that, if you’re comfortable talking about it?
It’s definitely pained, hence the title “It Kills”. I continue to find myself in the vicious cycle of repeating the same mistakes. No matter how hard I try to straighten up my personal life, it’s as if I have absolutely no self control. The song expresses my desperation to achieve a normal life without having a bad side, without guilt, anxiety, and self-sabotage, but I always end up falling into an abyss.
S] What inspires you outside of music right now – think art, games, film etc?
I love to cook, like REALLY love to cook. It’s not something that inspires my music or anything like that, but it inspires me to be creative in a different way, and it also inspires me to live a healthier life. As strange as it sounds, cooking makes me feel safe in the world, and puts my mind at ease. I sometimes think that living abroad for the past five years is what led me to the joy cooking. Perhaps I’ve been away too long and I’m trying to recreate the emotions I felt when eating with my family.
S] How has your attitude to touring changed over time?
I’ve become less reckless and more professional with my approach to touring. I take better care of myself and have become more interested in attempting perfection with the live shows. It’s still a learning experience and always will be, and it’s always exciting regardless if it’s considered work. I’m extremely spontaneous and love any sort of adventure which has led me to some bad decisions, but I have no regrets. I’m just a bit surprised I haven’t died yet.
S] What would you like ‘Criminal’ to communicate to fans?
That I’m fucked up, and if you’re fucked up too, you’re not alone.
