Inspired by the dream-pop and new wave sounds of the pre-2000s, and while continuing down the path of “made in your bedroom” production – Lyfe Indoors takes a more atmospheric approach. The solo project has continued to slowly gain traction with those who see fit since it’s initial establishment in late 2014. To date, the bedroom project has released several EPs and singles met with underground praise. Completely self-released, and completely straight-to-listener, Lyfe Indoors takes no shortcuts. Only paths that feel right. After a brief hiatus, he has returned with “Binary Crime” the first single off an upcoming new collection of tracks. In speaking with him over multiple calls, we both realized the internet is cheapening modern existence, it’s an all encompassing hollow feeling you can’t quite touch on fully. Indie Boulevard managed to connect with Lyfe Indoors, and learn more about new single, music technology and much more.

IB: Hello! It’s wonderful to chat with you here on Indie Boulevard and thank you for taking the time to talk to us about your music and, of course, about your new single “Binary Crime”. So, your music has been described as “made in your bedroom” production. Can you tell us more about your creative process and how you approach making music from a DIY perspective?

LI: Hey there! Thanks for taking the time to chat. Regarding writing and recording, I really try to do it whenever inspiration hits. I love being able to get some feelings or emotions out in a succinct way, although I’m always open to trying new ways of creating. Lately though, I try to just let the music flow through and be instinctual to what I think might sound good. In other words, to “turn my brain off” for a bit. Then I delete 90% of what I create and start over, haha. It’s that 10% that really gets out to the sunlight.

IB: Your lyrics are known for their poetic and esoteric quality. Can you tell me a bit about your creative process when it comes to writing lyrics? Do you have any specific sources of inspiration or techniques that you use?

LI: I love lyrics that make people think – through storytelling. My creative process really is similar to how I create music, in general. I try to work on instincts and what feels right without thinking too much at first. Part of that is when lyrics come to me and I note them down. Sometimes I bring them together, and sometimes I write words and lines while the sounds are created – really depends on the song.

IB: I really love your latest single “Binary Crime”, a dreamy, melancholic, perfect movie soundtrack. The song touches on the idea of feeling lost in technology. What inspired you to write about this topic, and how do you see your role as an artist in addressing the impact of technology on society?

LI: First off, thanks so much for listening and supporting the track! Glad it reached you and hit you in one way or another. Regarding the inspiration, I wont say too much, as I love leaving room for interpretation. I will say though that I’ve felt overwhelmed by technology. It is so powerful, and is the closest thing to magic that exists in our lives. This is good and bad. I tried to make this song that speaks to that.

IB: You’ve mentioned being inspired by dream-pop and new wave sounds from before 2000. Are there any specific artists or albums that have influenced your sound, and how do you put your own unique spin to your music?

LI: Just to name a few: I love Depeche Mode, Talk Talk, Coil, Dead Can Dance, Boards of Canada, and so many others. I try to put my unique spin on things by turning my brain off and letting my spirit, kind of, take over when creating or just “letting it flow”, as mentioned before.

IB: As I mentioned earlier, “Binary Crime” has a very cinematic sound to it. Which movie soundtrack do you think the song would fit into and why?

LI: Blade Runner (1982) would be a killer fit. I think that movie perfectly paints the dark nature of a world with too much technology everywhere and the dread of being disconnected from those around you. I think this song fits that vibe well.

IB: You’ve been an indie scene favorite since 2014. How do you think your music and creative process has changed since the release of your first single “Melt”? Can you talk about how you came up with this sound and how you continue to experiment with the dream pop genre in your music?

LI: I don’t think too much about experimentation as I trust my instincts will carry the torch. I really can’t say much to how my creative process has changed as I always try to find new ways of creating. However it happens, when inspiration comes. One concrete way I try to improve though is by researching audio production tips and documentation, as well as consulting with friends – shout-out to @cellartone for all the support and love over the years in this regard! Regarding experimentation, I really just try not to think too much. It’s like cooking – sometimes you try a little bit more salt and sometimes you decide to add pesto. I try what I think might work, and toss out what I don’t like. The good part here is that you don’t have to waste any food… you can just Ctrl+Z, lol!

IB: You mentioned that your upcoming collection of tracks is still TBD. Can you give us any hints or teasers about what we can expect from this new release?

LI: It’s going to be a good mix of songs I created over the past few years. Hoping to really show my tastes and interests in different genres as well. I can’t say too much, but I am very excited to share more.

IB:As a self-released and independent artist, what are some of the biggest challenges you face in terms of making and distributing your music? And, on the flip side, what are some of the benefits of being an independent artist?

LI: A huge challenge in today’s world is being noticed, because everyone is making music. It’s sort of a meme now to be making music and I think it can be really hard to separate yourself from that and show that you are serious about it. One benefit is being able to take distribution and everything into your own hands. You don’t have to be contractually owned by any entity, you can do things at your own pace and I think that is nice.

IB: Nowadays, being signed to a music label as an independent artist often holds little value. With the tools and resources available for creating, distributing, and promoting music, an artist can take matters into their own hands by producing their music themselves, selling merchandise, and even organizing their own tours if necessary. How do you see the traditional role of labels in the music industry changing? And how will this affect independent artists in the future?

LI: I honestly can’t say too much to this question. I really have never dealt with labels or anything so far. Seems like there will definitely be a place for labels, but just a bit different. Independent artists have more power now, but it is harder to attain. This is bittersweet, in my opinion.

IB: And the last question. If your music was a dish, what would it be and why?

LI: Music is definitely a salad. Without a doubt! You mix different elements and get something great. And it has all the possibilities to exist. Final answer.

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