Exploring Neko Case’s Neon Grey Midnight Green

Reflections on Loss and Healing

As summer began winding down, Neko Case found solace on her couch, engaging in a heartfelt conversation over Zoom about her latest album, Neon Grey Midnight Green. The discussion revolved around her journey through the relentless loss of loved ones since her last release, the significance of nature in her life, and her creative process.

Embracing Hope in the Face of Despair

Pitchfork: Between your vocal harmonies and the orchestral strings, Neon Grey Midnight Green comes across like a radiant burst of wonder, weightless relief, and trust in time healing all wounds. Were you in that state of mind while writing the album, or was this an exercise in drawing those feelings out of yourself at a time where dread and fear are pervasive?

Neko Case: I absolutely refused to be overtaken by despair. I wanted to remind people of their own power, that they still matter, and that resisting this weird, mechanized, grinding machine our world is turning into is important. These songs aren’t about that on the nose because I like leaving them open-ended for listeners to fit themselves into the picture. So, if it brings them joy or replants them on their feet or makes them feel less alone, that’s the hope: to help people feel a connection.

The Power of Music and Connection

Case emphasized the importance of celebrating musicians and the connections they foster through music. She articulated that music serves as a bridge that helps individuals connect with one another. “That’s our greatest power as humans: our psychic connection to each other,” she stated, highlighting the instinctual bonds that unite us.

Honoring Influential Musicians

Pitchfork: Which musicians were you reflecting on while writing this album? Did you want to immortalize their memories through song?

Neko Case: It’s both musicians who passed and those who are still living. During the course of making this record, people started passing away very unexpectedly. Like Donny Gerrard, who is an incredible vocalist in Mavis Staples’ band and in the band Skylark. I was surprised his death hit me so hard because we weren’t close, but his kindness and presence throughout my whole life via music felt huge. Then my dear friend Dallas Good passed away suddenly, not long after Donny, and he was like family to me.

The Duality of Grief

Case explored the complex nature of grief, describing it as a catalyst for reviving cherished memories. “Grief gives you incredible gifts if you’re willing to look it in the eyes, accept it, and feel it,” she conveyed, acknowledging that while some feelings are private, the essence of those we lost should not be shortchanged.

Remembering Influential Figures

Throughout the interview, Case reflected on several influential musicians who had passed away, such as Kim Shattuck from the Muffs and Dexter Romweber from Flat Duo Jets. She shared how each person’s impact shaped her life and career, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to her creative journey.

Conclusion

In Neon Grey Midnight Green, Neko Case channels her experiences of loss and grief into a celebration of life and connection. Through her music, she invites listeners to find strength and solace, reminding them of the power of their own voices and the connections that endure beyond loss. As she continues to honor the memories of those who have influenced her, she also encourages a collective resilience against the challenges of the world.

FAQs

What is the theme of Neko Case’s new album, Neon Grey Midnight Green?

The album explores themes of loss, healing, and the power of connection through music, reflecting Case’s experiences with grief and the influence of fellow musicians.

Who are some musicians that Neko Case honors in her album?

Case honors both living and deceased musicians, including Donny Gerrard, Dallas Good, Kim Shattuck, and Dexter Romweber, among others, emphasizing their impact on her life and career.

How does Neko Case describe the role of grief in her creative process?

Case describes grief as a dual experience that can revive sweet memories and bring forth gifts if one is willing to face and accept it, thereby shaping her music and emotional expression.