Introducing the behind-the-scenes tale of "Taking Back Time" with David Von Beahm, an introspective journey into the heart and soul of indie music creation. Dive deep into the album's genesis as David shares his personal revelations and artistic evolution, shedding light on the intimate stories behind each track. From the initial inspiration of crafting a road trip soundtrack to confronting personal demons and reclaiming lost time, David unveils the raw emotions and transformative experiences that shaped this musical odyssey. Join us as we explore the challenges, triumphs, and profound messages woven into the fabric of "Taking Back Time," offering listeners a chance to lose themselves in its melodies and find strength in its universal truths. As we peer into the future, discover the exciting musical horizons that await as David sets his sights on collaborative ventures, expansive projects, and the ever-unfolding journey of artistic expression.
Only the Host (John Woodson): David, what ignited the spark to create "Taking Back Time," and what personal experiences or reflections motivated the themes explored in this album?
David Von Beahm: The initial spark for Taking Back Time was to create a road trip kind of album, light and fun since the last several albums had an elements of heaviness to them. As I started to write lyrics, I found that attempting to write lighter lyrics a bit of a challenge, it all seemed too trite. I started to reflect and dig within and a big theme was realizing I spent most of my life taking other people's advice rather than listening to my own voice. So it kind of lyrically changed to certain lessons I've learned over the course of my life. I probably would have had a completely different life If I had more self confidence when I was younger.
OTH: Can you guide us through the intimate journey of crafting "Taking Back Time"? How did your unique songwriting process unfold, and what musical elements did you deliberately infuse into each track?
DVB: There was originally going to be more nylon guitar as I had purchased during the recording. I wrote the music for "Spirits" many years ago, but I wanted there to be a nylon string to get more of that flamenco flavor. There were 2 other songs recorded with that guitar that I pulled from the album because they weren't working with how the how it was evolving. I also played around more with delay effects with this album. Typically, it starts with a small idea like that, or with a guitar, or a synth part, a bassline and I record it. It just builds from there. I add so many layers that I often have to remove for the sake of clarity, but it's always nice to have those extra parts recorded in case I ever want to do remixes one day.
OTH: Were there pivotal moments or life events that directly inspired the songs on this album? Could you share a glimpse into the real-life stories behind some of your favorite tracks?
DVB: Yes. I used to think that maintaining friendships with some people in my past was a sign of maturity. This is where "Saving Faces" came from. When I first got involved with Amanda, we had past partners on our social media and it was proving unhealthy for us. I think keeping people in your life who are no longer meant to be there can cause suffering and it's typically for the sole purpose of virtue signaling, to show others how mature you think you are for keeping those people around and it actually comes from a place of selfishness. All it does is prevent growth in at least one of the parties.
"Here, Right by Your Side" was about someone who I care about was going through a tough time. I had been through some of the same emotions as them and realized I had a lot of negative self-talk and sometimes that prevents you from realizing there are people around you that want to be there for you.
"I Hope that Someday" is about me being a turtle, obviously in a figurative sense! When I first got together with Amanda, I had a hard time opening up and letting her in. I had a lot of trouble letting anyone in. I carried a lot of pain and darkness within me. She pulled me out of my shell. Those that truly care about you want to see all your sides and they won't ever use it as a weapon. I think I still have trouble with vocalizing and communicating my feelings directly with people but it's to a lesser extent. I was and still am to a certain extent, a conflict avoidant person. In my past experiences, conflicts seemed to lead to catastrophe. She taught me that it doesn't have to be that way and I can actually express my feelings and emotions even if they are in opposition and it doesn't mean the world will fall apart.
OTH: ”Taking Back Time" is a powerful title. What significance does it hold for you, and how does it encapsulate the essence of the album's message or narrative?
DVB: The album's title really stems from the desire to take back the time I have left in my life. The title track itself was about how when I was younger, all I wanted to do was play music. I didn't ever want to work a corporate job, or work for anyone else at all. I wanted to make music and tour. However, friends and family planted seeds of fear and doubt, and I abandoned those dreams for stability. For many years, I gave up creating with any sense of fervor. Now, the older I get, my time becomes more valuable to me. I am learning to protect it with much more tenacity.
OTH: Along the road of creating this album, what were some of the most challenging hurdles you faced, and how did you navigate through them to bring your vision to life?
DVB: Funnily enough, the biggest hurdle was finding the spare time to make it. Lots of personal changes occurred in the last couple of years. I am a full time parent, Amanda lives about 500 miles away, and my day job all require my time and care and they take priority. Again, this theme of time being precious, and finding balance and patience. During the COVID times, I thrived from the isolation. I loved it. I wasn't being pulled in so many directions. Now, if there is time, I almost have to force myself to feel creative, which typically only leads to frustration. I had to be patient with the process and instead of setting an unrealistic deadline for completion just work on it until I knew it was ready. My only real deadline was that I wanted it out before summer of 2024 because it was supposed to be a road trip kind of album.
OTH: Were there any moments during the making of "Taking Back Time" that left a lasting impression on you? If so, what made those moments special?
DVB: Up until January (2024), it was still a very different album. It wasn't working. There were a few songs I was struggling to write the lyrics, and the album just wasn't feeling right. I knew it deep down, and so did Amanda. She even said, "you're better than this" and she was right. I then broke my right leg. I couldn't drive or walk without crutches. I had to work from home again. During this time, I wrote "Here, Right by Your Side," "The Glass Notebook," (although I had those chords for many years), and "I'd Rather Not Say" then it all came together. The universe worked in such a way that it gave me the time I needed to get the album that I wanted to make even though I was also in a lot of physical pain.
OTH: Reflecting on your artistic journey, how do you feel you've evolved as an artist since your previous releases, and what unique elements do you believe set "Taking Back Time" apart from your earlier work?
DVB. These days I am much more confident. I've gotten better at singing, mixing, and mastering. As an indie musician I do almost everything myself. I have also been able to afford to invest in better recording equipment that I didn't have during my first album. I cringe when listen to "Where the Thunder Breaks." Not that the songs are bad, but I was still trying to find myself as a solo artist and as an engineer. That whole album was recorded on a Tascam Neo. Now I have a more "proper" setup. I'm quicker with mixing and signal routing within my DAW. Some processes though, are still very much the same. I now know more on how to get things to sound the way I want.
OTH: Among the tracks on "Taking Back Time," is there one in particular that holds a deeply personal significance to you? If so, could you share the heartfelt story behind its creation?
DVB: Well, writing music for me is like therapy in a way. This journey of music helps me in figuring myself out over the years. "Spirits" addresses my time struggling with alcohol. I will still imbibe from time to time, never around my daughter though, and never past my limits. When I was younger, I would drink to excess that it would be like a spirit possessing me, making me say and do things that weren't me. It's like drinking opens yourself up to dark energies and they will come to screw up your life or relationships for fun. I'd wake up the next morning wondering what I did and it wasn't good. These days, I have much more to lose, but writing that song was good catharsis.
OTH: As listeners immerse themselves in "Taking Back Time," what emotions or connections do you hope they experience, and what profound messages do you aspire for them to take away from the album?
DVB: I hope that the listener can lose themselves for over 47 minutes in the music and find a sense of strength within themselves. It takes strength stand up and take back your life which is really what this album is about. I think there are universal principles I wrote about whether it be addiction, letting go, persevering through whatever storm in your life is occurring, experiencing something new, thinking before jumping into something and you don't need to choose a side because someone tells you to. Find and listen to your true voice. That is the voice that wants to see you grow and heal.
OTH: Looking ahead, what exciting musical ventures can fans anticipate from you in the future?
DVB: In the future, I'd like to start doing collaborations with other label mates in any capacity. I'd also like to release a double album so I can explore different musical textures that I can't get away with on a shorter album, something way more varied in mood. I'd also like to do a "singles" album which would be reworkings or remixes (or fixed mixes) of older material I thought could have been singles. I've also though about a covers album too, but that gets convoluted with licensing. I do hope to play live again one day too. Some of these songs would be huge and emotional for myself and the audience. Whatever I do, it will unfold in its own way as this album has taught me.
As we bid farewell to this captivating journey behind "Taking Back Time," David Von Beahm leaves us with a lingering sense of introspection and inspiration. Through his candid reflections and heartfelt stories, we've uncovered the depth and authenticity embedded within each note of this remarkable album. As the final chords fade into the ether, we're reminded of the power of music to heal, empower, and ignite change within ourselves. With gratitude for sharing his artistry and wisdom, we eagerly anticipate the next chapter in David's musical odyssey, knowing that his passion and creativity will continue to shape and enrich our lives. Until we meet again on the shores of melody and meaning, may the echoes of "Taking Back Time" resonate within us, guiding us on our own paths of self-discovery and renewal.
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