Shane Alexander 'Forever Songs' Interview
Shane Alexander Announces Release of Eighth Album, Forever Songs.
California-tinged Indie Folk and Soaring Acoustic Rock. Out Now.
Can you tell us about the theme or concept behind this album?
My only real concept going into this record was to keep things honest, both musically and lyrically.
What was your main inspiration for creating this album?
The years leading up to this project were extremely turbulent—both globally and personally. I came into this record armed with what I thought were a batch of strong songs that I really felt emotionally connected to, with sentiments I felt compelled to share.
What inspired you to create this album?
It was time. My previous record came out in 2019. I had a couple of years following the pandemic where I wasn't able to tour as much, so I ended up producing a number of other projects. It's always a lot of work, but I love helping bands or songwriters bring out the best in themselves. Eventually, my pendulum swung back, and I was ready to return re-energized to my life as a full-time solo artist.
How would you describe the sound and style compared to your previous work?
This particular group of tunes just wanted to go BIG. Vic Ruiz (bass), Carl Byron (all things keys), Jesse Siebenberg (steel/dobro, etc.), and Jamie Drake and Justine Bennett on backing vocals have appeared on my previous records, but this was my first record with Fernando Sanchez on drums, who’d been in my live band for a couple of years. I absolutely love Fern. I think his groove, style, and approach really elevated these songs and helped make them feel infectious. We tracked the basics live in the room at my place, so there's some lovely bleed, energy, and interplay happening.
Are there any tracks that hold special meaning to you? Why?
I love the opener You Make Your Own Luck, a song that's been called an ode to self-reliance. My dear friend Chris Pierce contributed some spooky harp and additional harmonies. I think it sets the tone for all that follows. Autumn Blue was written in a particularly dark period, but I think it came out beautifully and captures the vibe I wanted. Higher than High might be my favorite—it has a message of finding hope after facing heavy setbacks, which I think is timely and universal. It’s wrapped up in a fairly epic psychedelic jam that conjures many of my heroes like Crosby, Jeff Beck, and Traffic. It also helped usher in a return to my roots as an improvisational lead guitarist, which was fun.
Did you collaborate with any other artists or musicians? How did those collaborations happen?
I wrote a number of these songs with friends. In early 2021, I was doing songwriting Zoom sessions five times a week, and a ton of strong songs came out of that period. Many were writers I had worked with previously, but I also made lots of new collaborations, including Judy Blank with Something Good, Clayton Joseph Scott with Whole Lotta Stars, and Danny McGaw with You Make Your Own Luck. Some had reached out to me, and some were referred to me by Warner Chappell in Europe. Having so many songs that I was fired up about really helped bring the fun and abundance back after the harsh realities of the COVID storm. For me, new music equals life.
Were there any challenges or unexpected moments during production?
The biggest challenge was that I got asked to produce a bunch of projects in a row right after we captured the basic tracks, so I had to back-burner my own record. In time, that also turned out to be a gift, as I was able to return with fresh eyes and ears to bring it home (albeit two years later than planned).
Can you share any interesting stories from the recording studio or tour?
By the time we made this record, my studio (built in 2015) was really dialed in. As both the artist and producer, I just surrendered to the process and tried to let the spirits come in. It was such a joy working with the guys and finding our arrangements and grooves this time around. There always seemed to be a lot of magic in the room. I remember getting a little choked up with how cool everything was coming together on a few occasions. When Fern and Carl entered at the top of Higher than High, I was pinching myself. Everything felt like a gift.
What message or emotion do you want to convey to your audience?
I always want to convey truth, peace, and some modicum of hope in my music. It's a harsh world out there, but music has the vibrational power to soothe our hearts and minds like no other medium can. Love Finds a Way is a track late in the record that builds to a beautiful crescendo. I wrote that one reflecting on my own path through tough times. Find gratitude in every day. Lift others up. Repeat.
How does this album reflect your personal growth as an artist?
I hope the record reflects that I'm an artist still evolving and aspiring to get closer and closer to the source. It’s hard to believe this is my eighth solo record, but I'm feeling more tuned in and confident in my own abilities than ever before. It’s truly all about the journey.
Were there any specific instruments or production techniques that shaped the sound?
I’m an absolute guitar freak with a lot of options, but I mostly used my vintage Guild acoustic guitars with fairly dead strings. I'm always trying for earthy, timeless sounds. The drums are my '60s Slingerlands that just sounded great going down. I tried not to overcomplicate things. My old Los Angeles Piano Co. upright added some real spook as well. The best technique I’ve ever found is to surround myself with great players who only wish to serve the song and let them express themselves. That’s a fact.
Are there any lyrical themes or narratives throughout the album?
Because so many of the songs came out of the lockdown, there are themes of isolation and darkness, but those narratives ultimately give way to gratitude and renewal by the time we get to Higher than High, the finale.
What are your plans for promoting it? Can fans expect live performances or videos?
I plan to tour in the US until fall and celebrate my 20th anniversary of my first Dutch tour by doing some band concerts in Holland and Germany by the end of the year. I've also been in pre-production mode for a video for Higher than High with my director Chris Cesnek, who did Good as Gold for me back in 2010. I always ask my fans—if they’re feeling it—pass it on in any way they can. I’m so grateful to have people all over the world who have stayed with me and supported my music since my earliest records and tours.
If you could remix any song on the album, who would you feature?
It’s too soon for me to think about remixing these tunes! We worked so hard to get these mixes as they are. But I do have a bunch of previously released/recorded stuff that I’d like to remix with some of my ultra-badass Dutch DJ homies.
What advice would you give someone with a dream?
I always say the same thing: Don’t suck. Don’t quit. Make friends.
Website: shanealexandermusic.com
Instagram: @shanealexandermusic
Twitter: @shane_alexander
Facebook: shanealexandermusic
TikTok: shanealexandermusic
Photography Credit: Album photos by Karlo Rotim and Ante Roti
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