INTERVIEW:
Oriion
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A certain cheekiness and assuredness emanate…
from Oriion - as he talks to me about the new song, Fast Lane Hearts. I ask him about its derivation and whether it (the song) is a step up from a track like Live Another Lie (I think it is). Oriion explains his process and why he has relocated to Berlin; whether there is going to be new material soon – and why he decided not to go to L.A. recently.
He tells me about influences and important albums; some new artists worth seeking out; why Berlin is such an attractive city to live in – and why he got into music in the first place.
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Hi, Oriion. How are you? How has your week been?
Hey. Wassup!
I’m doing pretty good. I was going to Los Angeles but decided not to go at the last minute - while standing and waiting at the airport - my heart suddenly told me to go back to Berlin.
So, here I am: back in the studio and finalizing my next tracks! On top of that; my team and I are discussing my next steps.
For those new to your work; can you introduce yourself, please?
Hi. I’m Oriion - and this won’t be the last time you will hear my name. HAHA! Just follow my steps and I will introduce you to a world full of nostalgic moments…
Fast Lane Hearts is the new single. What is the story behind it?
Well!
Have you ever felt the unsatisfying crave towards somebody; living in a fleeting world; a universe of fast lane hearts, distraction; endless options we long for that one and only feeling; two hearts becoming one, becoming time and space?!
It sounds like a lot of layers and time went into the track. Was it quick to put together – or was it tough committing to a version that sounds right to you?
I’m very versatile when it comes to layers of time - but this song was written in the stars already. This song is definitely inspired by the 1970s and '80s
The song is a step up from the previous track, Live Another Lie. How would you say the two songs differ?
Well, let me put it like this: every step I take in my life should be a step up…shouldn’t it?!
Every song you will get to hear will differ from another one - but the most important aspect in all this is to keep the nostalgia, somehow.
Is there an E.P. on the way anytime soon?
Oh yes! We are going to release an E.P. soon enough.
You are working with producer Lindahl, I believe. Is that for an album – or part of the E.P.? What is like working with him?
Yes. I am working with producer, best buddy and spiritual connection, Lindahl - he is part of Oriion. He helped me to discover Oriion. We would love to write songs, E.P.s and albums for a lifetime! Let’s see where life is taking us to!
We are super-excited.
I am discovering a lot of artists coming through Berlin. What is it about the city that attracts so many?
True! I really don’t know as I refused to come here in the beginning - but this city has magic in it. Come and find out yourself.
I think you will dig it!
Can you tell me the artists you grew up listening to and idolized?
Sade, Prince; Janet Jackson, Terence Trent D’Arby; Queen - and many others.
Was there a particular moment you decided to go into music? What is it about music that speaks to you?
I was always about music! I started as a dancer when I was three - and ended up singing by eleven. Music is a very powerful medium.
It is pure emotion, eternized.
IN THIS PHOTO: Anna of the North/PHOTO CREDIT: Jonathan Vivaas Kise
Who are the new artists you recommend we check out?
Uff…so many good talents out there!
Check out RKCP; Anna of the North; TENDER; Laskaar, Jorja Smith - and and and…
(I feature most of my favourite artist in my playlists).
IN THIS PHOTO: Jorja Smith
If you had to select the three albums that mean the most to you; which would they be?
Sade - Diamond Life/Promise
Kelis – Tasty
Prince – Purple Rain (Deluxe)
What advice would you give to artists coming through right now?
To understand the concept of time and focus.
Finally, and for being a good sport; you can name a song and I’ll play it here (not one of yours as I’ll do that).
Queen – You Don’t Fool Me
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