Leigh Kakaty Discusses POP EVIL’s Eighth Album “What Remains”

Exploring a New Creative Approach

In a recent interview with Adam Roach on the Land Of Music podcast, Leigh Kakaty, the vocalist of Michigan rock band POP EVIL, opened up about the band’s latest album, “What Remains,” released in March via MNRK. Discussing the differences in their writing and recording process for this album, Kakaty shared insights into the evolution of their music.

A Journey of Growth

“With every album, the goal is to outdo the previous one,” Kakaty explained. “You work with different producers and engineers, learning from past mistakes along the way.” He emphasized the significance of trial and error in crafting music, stating, “You think, ‘Let’s not do that again,’ or ‘Let’s try this instead.’

Personal Reflection in Songwriting

What made this album unique, according to Kakaty, was a moment of revelation midway through the writing process. Following the completion of the first five songs, his manager prompted him to reflect on the lyrics. “He asked if I knew what I was writing about, and I realized that these songs were deeply personal,” Kakaty recalled. This led to a supportive environment within the band that encouraged him to delve into personal themes that he had previously shied away from.

A Healing Process

Kakaty described the songwriting process as a form of therapy. “For fans, music can be a source of inspiration and healing,” he noted. “As musicians, we experience a similar healing through our own music.” He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to create songs that resonated with his own struggles, recognizing that they could also help others facing similar challenges.

The Weight of Experience

Having spent two decades building POP EVIL from the ground up, Kakaty’s journey has been marked by triumphs and setbacks. “What Remains” encapsulates this experience, presenting a raw narrative of his life’s journey. The album showcases the band’s heaviest sound to date, a blend of modern rock and metal that reveals Kakaty’s vulnerability.

Reflections on a Musical Journey

Born in North Muskegon, Michigan, in 2001, Kakaty’s determination to pursue music was shaped by his early experiences in sports. “A knee injury ended my basketball dreams, and music became my sole focus,” he said. His commitment to POP EVIL provided him with purpose and direction, leading to their early successes and eventual recognition in the rock scene.

Confronting Personal Demons

Throughout his career, Kakaty has faced profound personal challenges, including the loss of his father, which left him feeling lost at times. “I didn’t know if I could continue with POP EVIL,” he admitted. However, he found renewed strength and purpose in music, using it as a means to confront his inner demons.

The Sound of “What Remains”

Sonically, “What Remains” is described as a vibrant explosion of sound, characterized by powerful riffs and dynamic drumming. Kakaty explained, “We aimed to push boundaries. Metal has always been in our DNA, but we explored it more deeply on this record.” The focus was on allowing the music to develop organically, reflecting the emotional weight of the album’s themes.

Conclusion

Leigh Kakaty’s journey through the creation of “What Remains” illustrates the profound connection between music and personal healing. With each song, he unearths layers of his experiences, offering listeners a glimpse into his soul. As fans embrace this latest offering, Kakaty remains inspired to continue creating music that resonates with both himself and his audience.

FAQs

What is the release date of “What Remains”?

“What Remains” was released in March 2023.

What themes does “What Remains” explore?

The album delves into personal experiences, healing, and emotional struggles faced by Leigh Kakaty.

How does Kakaty feel the songwriting process affected him?

Kakaty describes the songwriting process as therapeutic, allowing him to confront his personal challenges and heal through music.

What is unique about the sound of “What Remains”?

The album is noted for its heavy sound, blending modern rock and metal, while allowing emotional themes to guide its musical direction.