Singer, songwriter and classical guitarist, Irene Conti has just released her new EP The World In Front Of Me. The second studio EP from this Italian artist, it shows a deeper and more introspective side to Conti. We had the pleasure of talking to Irene and chatting about her new EP, discovering new music and future plans.
Why did you choose to enter the music industry?
Because I noticed that what was working for me was also working for other people. I started writing songs to make myself feel better and the moment I realised my songs were making other people feel better there was no doubt what my mission was in life.
What can you tell us about your latest release The World In Front Of Me?
The World In Front Of Me is a mood. You play it and you enter into a specific dimension. It talks about doubts, life, not knowing what to do, questioning ourselves and being a human in society; it’s a lot!
What was the recording and writing process like?
The first song I wrote is the title track, but at the time I didn’t know that it would be the title of the album. When I finished writing the other songs and I decided to put them all together on an album, I realised they all talk about what’s in front of me and that became the title track. Writing this album was a promenade inside my mind. I always start with the problem and then I try to find a solution. It was always a nice feeling finishing each song.
I recorded the songs at Ben Walker’s studio in Brighton. It was a fantastic experience as I learned a lot watching a real genius at work. Ben helped to bring out the deepest being of each song and to put it into musical form.
For ‘Hey Man’ I had the chance to work with the incredible Breck Alan who produced an alternate version of the song which is dreamy and lively. I also decided to put on the album the alternate version for ‘Colors Of My Life’ which I released as a single one year ago; it was also produced by Breck Alan.
Which is your favourite track from The World In Front Of Me and why?
Oh, that’s not an easy question! Probably ‘Hey Man’ because of its simplicity. It’s direct and many of us can easily relate to the anecdote I sing at the beginning of the song. It’s a song that talks about both the protagonist and the spectator of a chaotic life inside a chaotic city.
What about your least favourite track?
I honestly do not have a least favourite one. They all express a unique situation, a unique moment of my life. This is why I can’t find a least favourite as I’m grateful for every single moment in my life. Also, my rule is to be the number one fan of each song of mine; only then can I put it on the album.
Describe your music in three words.
Felt. Melancholic. Nostalgic.
What do you think is the best way to discover new music?
I have two ways to discover new music: going into the old local music stores and letting myself be inspired. If I want to stay home, I let myself be guided by music blogs. I found some of my favourite songs on music blogs.
What does 2020 (and beyond) hold for Irene Conti?
I really hope that, despite the challenge we are all facing worldwide right now, 2020 still holds wonderful things for each of us and that we still have the chance to fight for reaching our dreams. For me, 2020 holds the plan for a new tour, lots of new experiences with my music that will become good memories, and lots of new songs!
What advice do you have for any person planning to become a musician?
The best advice I can give is to trust the help of others and to be ready to receive advice and help because, as in every other field, you can’t do everything by yourself.
Do you have any message for our readers?
Thank you for listening to independent music! I hope you found a bit of comfort in my new songs.
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