Insights from JHelix: The Journey Behind ‘Upon The Earth’
Early Influences and Musical Beginnings
Connecting with Heavier Sounds
Growing up listening to bands like Alice in Chains and Type O Negative, what first drew you to heavier music?
From a young age, I exhibited a Type A personality, which made gentler music less appealing to me. The raw emotion and intensity of heavier genres resonated deeply with my nature. While I did enjoy some softer tracks from artists like John Denver and Enya—who deserves a lifetime hall pass—the transition from hair metal to the Grunge/Alternative movement was monumental in my musical journey. In early grade school, I was jamming to Guns N’ Roses and Def Leppard, only to be swept away by the likes of Alice in Chains, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam. It was a thrilling time in music history!
Evolution of Sound: ‘Upon The Earth’
Exploring Alternative Metal
Your new single “Upon The Earth” leans into alternative metal. What made you want to explore that sound more with this release?
My shift towards a heavier sound has been gradual, dating back to 2020. While my previous album, “The Corruption,” maintained an Electro/Industrial vibe, I began incorporating guitars and bass into my work. The single “Breathe” was a step in that direction, and “Upon The Earth” continues this evolution. Composing on my down-tuned custom guitar has been a significant change, allowing me to embrace a more traditional Alt Metal sound.
Studio Process and Composition Changes
You’ve spent a lot of time creating music in the studio. How did your approach change while making this project?
My composition process has transformed dramatically. Now, most of my songs start during guitar practice, where I experiment with chords and riffs that often evolve into full-fledged songs. For “Upon The Earth,” I began with the opening riff and built the track around that foundation.
Musical Themes and Messages
The Power of Riffs and Melodies
The riffs in “Upon The Earth” really drive the song. Do you usually start with a guitar idea or build from the atmosphere first?
Melody is paramount for me. In the past, I would create synth-based melodies first, but now, I typically start with rhythm guitar, allowing the composition to flow from there.
Exploring Disconnection in Modern Society
The lyrics talk about how disconnected people have become. What inspired that theme?
My afternoon runs on local nature trails often reveal a troubling trend: people walking with earbuds in, glued to their phones, missing the beauty around them. It’s alarming how technology has pulled us away from real-life experiences. This disconnect serves as a primary inspiration for the song, reflecting a growing concern about our relationship with the digital world.
Evoking Emotion Through Music
There’s a lot of power in the mix of heavy guitars and big vocal moments. What kind of feeling were you hoping listeners would get from the track?
I aim to overwhelm the senses with musical emotion. With “Upon The Earth,” I wanted to encapsulate the frantic energy of online interactions, juxtaposed with the serene beauty of nature, ultimately portraying humanity’s chaotic rush into an uncertain future.
Visual Storytelling in the Music Video
The music video shows a clash between nature and digital worlds. What message were you hoping to get across with those visuals?
The message is simple: “Touch Grass.” Step outside, enjoy the morning sun, and leave your phone behind. It’s a call to reconnect with the world around us and truly live in the moment.
Future Endeavors and Live Performances
The Importance of Live Music
You’re now bringing the project to the stage with a full band. How important is performing live for you at this stage?
Live performance has become my top priority. With a full-length album on the way, featuring no synths and a solid Alt Metal sound, I feel it’s vital to connect with audiences directly. As technology evolves, live music remains one of the few authentic ways to engage with fans. Building a talented band is a challenge, but it’s one I’m eager to embrace.
What’s Next for JHelix?
With more music on the way, what can fans expect next?
My upcoming full-length album features nine tracks, showcasing my most advanced songwriting yet. I’m excited to share this project and will keep fans updated through my social media and YouTube channel. Stay tuned!
Conclusion
JHelix’s journey through music has been one of evolution and discovery, transitioning from electronic sounds to a raw, alternative metal essence with ‘Upon The Earth.’ His insights reflect a deeper commentary on the disconnection in modern society, urging listeners to reconnect with the world around them. As he prepares to take his music to the stage, fans can expect an exciting and engaging experience ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What inspired JHelix’s latest single, ‘Upon The Earth’?
The inspiration came from observing how technology has disconnected people from nature and real-life experiences.
How has JHelix’s musical style evolved over the years?
JHelix has gradually transitioned from an Electro/Industrial sound to embrace a more traditional alternative metal style in his recent work.
What can fans expect from JHelix’s upcoming full-length album?
The album will feature nine songs, showcasing a solid Alt Metal sound with no synth influences, highlighting JHelix’s advanced songwriting.
How important is live performance to JHelix?
Live performance is now a top priority for JHelix, as he believes it’s one of the few organic ways to connect with fans in an increasingly digital world.
Where can fans find more information about JHelix and his music?
Fans can follow JHelix on his official website, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for updates and new music releases.
