Indra Aziz
Will White, a prominent figure in the music industry, notably for his extensive work with the acclaimed band The Maccabees, has released his latest solo project, "It’s Easy To Let The Thoughts Gain Ground." This new album, crafted in his Peckham studio, marks a significant personal artistic statement, drawing from over two decades of musical immersion. White describes the genesis of the album as a process of channeling both nascent and enduring emotions into sonic form, a task he undertook with the assistance of a close circle of trusted collaborators. The resulting record is being lauded for its mature yet vibrant sound, a testament to White’s deep-seated musical intuition.
The Genesis of "It’s Easy To Let The Thoughts Gain Ground"
The creative journey leading to "It’s Easy To Let The Thoughts Gain Ground" began organically within White’s creative sanctuary in Peckham. He found himself generating musical ideas that transcended the scope of his existing projects, prompting a focused exploration of these distinct sonic territories. This period of introspection and rapid creative output was characterized by White’s deliberate approach to processing his emotional landscape. The decision to enlist a select group of close friends was strategic; these individuals possessed an intuitive understanding of his musical language, enabling a fluid and efficient realization of his vision. The album’s title itself, "It’s Easy To Let The Thoughts Gain Ground," hints at a thematic exploration of internal dialogues and the often-unseen currents of thought that shape our experiences.
The release of the album, as reported by industry observers, signifies a new chapter for White, allowing him to delve into a more personal and introspective form of musical expression. While The Maccabees have a well-documented history of chart success and critical acclaim, this solo endeavor provides a platform for a different facet of his artistry to emerge. The album’s reception thus far has been positive, with critics highlighting its sophisticated arrangements and emotional depth.
A Deeper Dive into Foundational Influences
In conjunction with the album’s release, Will White has participated in a segment titled "Foundations," a recurring feature that invites musicians to discuss the albums that have profoundly shaped their artistic trajectory. This platform is not intended to identify definitive favorites, but rather to spotlight works that have left an indelible mark. White’s selections offer a compelling insight into the diverse sonic palette that informs his own creative output.
Scott Walker – "Scott 4"
White identifies Scott Walker’s 1969 album, "Scott 4," as a pivotal discovery. His initial encounter with Walker’s work was through the later album "Tilt," which spurred him to explore the artist’s earlier catalog. "Scott 4," in particular, holds a special place, described by White as a record he revisits "endlessly." He articulates a deep appreciation for the experience of falling in love with an artist’s body of work, expressing a sentiment of longing for Walker’s continued presence in the music world.
"Scott 4" was released during a period of significant artistic evolution for Walker, moving away from his more commercial pop material towards a more experimental and orchestral sound. The album features original compositions by Walker and is noted for its sophisticated arrangements and often melancholic lyrical themes. Its influence can be traced in the ambitious scope and emotional resonance of many contemporary artists.
Jorge Ben – "Força Bruta"
The Brazilian music of the era represented by Jorge Ben’s "Força Bruta" proved to be a profound revelation for White. His discovery of this album coincided with the initial stages of solo travels to Lisbon. He recounts a vivid memory of being driven across the river to Caparica beach, windows down, with locals, immersing himself in the Portuguese language and culture. The experience of floating in the sea, gazing at the sky, became inextricably linked to the album.
"Força Bruta," released in 1970, is a seminal work of Brazilian music, blending samba, funk, and soul influences. Ben’s distinctive vocal delivery and rhythmic guitar work are hallmarks of the album. The atmosphere of "Força Bruta" is often described as palpable, enveloping the listener in its distinctive sonic tapestry. This period of personal exploration in Lisbon, amplified by the soundtrack of "Força Bruta," marked a period of significant personal growth for White.
Blur – "Think Tank"
White expresses a strong affinity for Blur’s 2003 album, "Think Tank," noting its departure from the band’s more typical sound. He observes the album’s sonic kinship with the nascent stages of Gorillaz, another project featuring Blur’s Damon Albarn, highlighting the playful and evolving nature of the tracks. While he singles out "Ambulance" as a standout track, he admits to consistently skipping "Crazy Beat," indicating a nuanced appreciation for the album’s diverse offerings.
"Think Tank" was produced by Norman Cook (Fatboy Slim) and also featured contributions from William Orbit. The album marked a period of experimentation for Blur, incorporating a wider range of musical styles and production techniques. Its release occurred during a period of significant evolution for the band, and it is often cited as a more mature and introspective work.
The Knife – "Shaking The Habitual"
The Knife’s 2013 album, "Shaking The Habitual," is described by White as an "important" record. He is drawn to its expansive, often dissonant tracks, the bold collisions of instrumentation, and the overall sense of artistic confidence. The album’s ability to shift from challenging sonic landscapes to moments of undeniable groove is a key aspect of its appeal for him. White also acknowledges the duo’s strong sense of artistic conviction and their engagement with political themes, further cementing the album’s significance in his estimation. The distinctive color palette of the album’s artwork is also noted as a memorable element.
"Shaking The Habitual" was a highly acclaimed album, lauded for its experimental nature, ambitious scope, and socially conscious themes. It featured extended tracks and a departure from more conventional song structures, challenging listeners and critics alike. The Knife, comprised of Karin Dreijer and Olof Dreijer, have consistently pushed artistic boundaries throughout their career.
Bob Dylan – "Time Out Of Mind"
Bob Dylan’s 1997 album, "Time Out Of Mind," resonates deeply with White, particularly in its raw emotional portrayal. He suggests the album is ideal for listeners experiencing heartbreak, though he cautions that it may intensify feelings of sadness. White admits to extensive listening sessions during a period where the album amplified his own melancholy, yet he finds a profound beauty in this exploration of pain. He references a lyric from an outtake of the record, "I can’t say if I want the pain to end or not," as encapsulating the album’s complex emotional terrain.
"Time Out Of Mind" marked a significant artistic resurgence for Dylan, produced by Daniel Lanois. The album is characterized by its sparse, atmospheric production and Dylan’s weathered vocal performances. It received widespread critical acclaim and commercial success, often seen as a return to form for the iconic songwriter.
Moondog – "On The Streets Of New York"
White expresses a sustained engagement with Moondog’s "On The Streets Of New York," listening to it "on loop." Over the past six to seven years, he has actively sought out music that operates on different frequencies, works that he finds himself less able to fully grasp, suggesting a deliberate embrace of the unknown and the complex in his listening habits.
Moondog, born Louis Thomas Hardin, was an enigmatic American composer, poet, and inventor. His music often drew inspiration from urban life and his unique rhythmic and harmonic approaches. "On The Streets Of New York" is representative of his distinctive style, characterized by its intricate compositions and unconventional instrumentation.
Alexandre Desplat – "The Isle Of Dogs Soundtrack"
White’s experience working on soundtracks for several years has informed his appreciation for composers like Alexandre Desplat. He finds collaborating with directors to be a particularly rewarding aspect of his career, describing the process of helping to establish a film’s mood as both satisfying and challenging. The soundtrack for Wes Anderson’s "The Isle of Dogs" is a piece he frequently returns to, specifically highlighting the minimalist use of instrumentation and the compelling interplay between saxophones and taiko drums.
Alexandre Desplat is a highly acclaimed French composer known for his scores for films such as "The Grand Budapest Hotel," "The Shape of Water," and "Argo." His work on "The Isle of Dogs" (2018) was praised for its distinctive and evocative musical themes, perfectly complementing the film’s unique aesthetic.
The release of "It’s Easy To Let The Thoughts Gain Ground" and White’s candid reflections on his foundational musical influences provide a comprehensive look into the artistic mind of a seasoned musician. His journey from the collaborative energy of The Maccabees to this deeply personal solo endeavor, informed by a rich and diverse tapestry of musical inspirations, underscores his enduring commitment to sonic exploration and emotional expression. The album is available now.
