Posted:
7 May 2020
Photos: Dylan Moore
Interview, Text & Intro: Martin Hufnagel
MILES SINGLETON
The algorithm in music streaming services can't replace friends’ recommendations: These people know you, your taste, and sometimes even your current mood. When I cancelled my flight to Australia, stores and restaurants in Hamburg shut down, and I slowly realised that 2020 will be a very special year, a friend sent me the link to Miles Singleton’s album Invert. The producer from Zurich created 9 tracks that transport you to another, slowly moving world that opens up a space for you to let your mind drift.
A few days later, I talked to Miles on the phone about the music scene in Zurich, the first record he fell in love with and, of course, his new album.
Do you remember the first record that you fell in love with?
‘Axis: Bold as Love’ by Jimi Hendrix. I remember listening to that record for days when I was around 14. Definitely a reason why I started to pursue music.
How’s the music scene in Zurich?
There’s a big music scene in Zurich. I still feel a lot of talented artists go unnoticed though. But I do think that we’re generally in a time where strong cultures are emerging in Zurich with more profound impact.
How long did it take for you to make Invert?
The whole process took about a year and a half.
From your first beat until now, how did your style evolve?
I guess producing equals evolving. As an artist you are always looking for new ways and different approaches to practice your art, you are constantly looking for that new sound, that new experience. What would you be doing if it weren’t that way? You know what I mean!?
Where do you find inspiration?
I don’t really know... it just strikes me naturally most of the time. But I can say that listening to music makes me want to look for new sounds and rhythms.
Do you have any special relationship with one of the songs on Invert?
I have a special relationship with all of the songs on Invert. Otherwise they wouldn’t be on the album.
How many joints were smoked during the making of Invert?
Not too many.
Who’s reading the poem in the ‘Beauty of It (Interlude)’?
It’s my father. I love him.
I find myself listening to the album on repeat as it has a special atmosphere and flow. Was it meant to work that way?
Yes, it was meant to be that way. I don’t consider it easy to listen to. You have to take a moment and really dive into it and truly try to understand the narrative! It’s not meant to be a style or a genre. It’s more like a story...different experiences and stories merging into one message.
