Today, we have the pleasure of diving into the vibrant world of Voonic2, a band that brings together the nostalgic tones of old-school video games with modern rock riffs. With their unique blend of chiptunes and catchy melodies, Voonic2 has carved out a distinctive place in the indie music scene. In this exclusive interview, we get to know more about the band's origins, their creative process, and their experiences as independent artists. Let's jump into the conversation and discover the universe of Voonic2!
Secret Code: Track 3 is my favorite
Q: How did you come up with the name of your band, and does it hold any special significance?
A: The name Voonic2 appeared in a dream that NazoNo had a long time ago. It sounded like a Video Game and the number 2 in it represents the members of the band. It became a perfect match for our concept.
Q: How did the band members meet and decide to create music together?
A: aRtPG was working at a recording studio on another project and urgently needed a bass player for a show. NazoNo replied to his ads, and they met, rehearsed, and performed live together. After the show, aRtPG invited NazoNo to track bass on their studio recording. Soon, ideas started flowing, and a strong bond formed within the band.
Q: How would you describe your band’s music to someone who hasn’t heard it before?
A: Our music can be described as a fusion of Chiptunes and Rock. It merges modern riffs with nostalgic tones from old-school video games, creating a brave, bold, and off-the-wall universe of catchy melodies.
Q: Can you share the creative process behind writing your songs? Who contributes what to the process?
A: Our creative process is non-linear and democratic. Songs can originate from complex chiptune structures, significant basslines, guitar progressions, simple riffs, or sudden melodies in our minds. Inspiration can come from anywhere, and we constantly explore various sources for ideas.
Q: What has been the most memorable concert or event you've played so far, and why?
A: The most memorable event for us was the Otakuthon Festival, the biggest anime convention in Montreal, during the summer of 2022. The amazing scenario, incredible sound, and positive response from the audience made it an unforgettable experience.
Q: Is there a theme or story behind your most recent album/EP/single?
A: Our latest production, "Knights of the Multiverse," revolves around the idea of visiting alternate dimensions. With our diverse musical backgrounds and influences, we move from the universe of video games to the universe of independent music, creating a dynamic and ever-changing musical journey.
Q: Can you tell us about a time when things didn't go as planned, either during a performance, recording session, or any other band activity? How did you handle it?
A: One common challenge is when we are unable to do a proper sound check before a show. In those moments, we rely on our communication as a band and our intuitive strengths to deliver a good performance despite the unexpected circumstances. We adapt and make the best out of the situation, ensuring the show goes on.
Q: How do you feel your music has evolved since you first started playing together?
A: Our creative process has become more comfortable and enjoyable. We feel a sense of freedom to explore ideas without overthinking their practicality or uniqueness. We have identified our strengths and gained a clearer understanding of what we want to create.
Q: What's been the most rewarding part of being in this band?
A: Being in this band has been a journey of growth. It has helped us believe more in ourselves and improve as musicians. For the first time, our chaotic unconsciousness found a structured and solid outlet. Each show we perform adds to our experience points, making the entire journey incredibly rewarding.
Q: How has being a band impacted your individual lives?
A: First and foremost, the band became our savior during lockdowns and unstable times. It sparked our inventiveness and resourcefulness. It has brought us immense joy and the opportunity to unleash our creative sides. We've had the chance to meet other talented musicians and become part of a supportive artistic community, offering invaluable experiences and lessons.
Q: Can you describe your journey into indie music and how you decided to become an indie artist/band?
A: The changing times and the shift in the music industry made us realize that record labels are no longer the sole path for recording and releasing music. We value creative autonomy and the flexibility it provides in our musical production. Being an indie band allows us to balance personal lives while maintaining control over our artistic endeavors. New technologies and trends, along with online platforms, have opened doors for us to thrive in the indie scene.
Q: Can you share a story of a hurdle you had to overcome in your music career? How did you handle it?
A: We were once invited to play at a big online festival with very short notice and limited information. We couldn't synchronize the times with an audio engineer for a smooth presentation. In the face of adversity, we adjusted our schedules, thought outside the box, and kept an open mind. Ultimately, we managed to deliver something substantial right on time.
Q: How do you feel about the indie music scene currently? What are some of the challenges and opportunities you see?
A: We feel that the indie music scene is promising and stronger than ever. We witness more artists networking and putting their music out there, which is encouraging and inspiring. However, challenges remain in areas such as marketing, touring, promotion, and legal aspects, where expert input may be required.
Q: Have you found your online community yet? If so, how have they supported you in your journey? If not, what are some of the challenges you've faced in building it?
A: Fortunately, we have found our online community, and we are grateful for their support. It's heartwarming to discover that people recommend our songs to others or certain communities. Building an online community requires constant effort and supporting other emerging musicians. It's a win-win situation for everyone involved.
Q: What is your perspective on indie music's place in the larger music industry?
A: Indie music provides a kaleidoscopic view of the larger music industry. It demonstrates that quality can thrive despite limited resources or platforms for promotion. It's a testament to the power of artistic expressions that break through traditional barriers.
Q: How do you handle criticism, and how has it influenced your music?
A: Criticism is inevitable, and as musicians, we are exposed to it. We approach criticism with an open mind and humility. We understand the value of constructive feedback and constantly strive to improve. While we are our own biggest critics, we appreciate the input of the audience, which shapes our musical growth.
Q: How do you maintain your creative independence while also trying to appeal to a wider audience?
A: We maintain our creative independence by staying true to our artistic vision and embracing the constant changes and innovations within the music community. We believe that authenticity and artistic integrity are essential, and by doing so, we naturally appeal to a wider audience who appreciates our unique blend of chiptunes and rock.
Q: Lastly, what's one piece of advice you would give to a new indie artist/band starting their journey today?
A: Take that leap of faith and be a doer. The world is full of great ideas, but acting on them sets you apart. Embrace challenges, believe in yourself, and pursue your musical goals with determination. The road may not always be easy, but it's the doers who achieve marvelous things. Keep going!
Voonic2's journey as an indie band has been a testament to their dedication, creativity, and belief in their music. They continue to push boundaries, merging chiptunes and rock into a brave and bold universe of catchy melodies. Their experiences navigating the indie music scene and overcoming hurdles inspire us all. As they carve their path with unwavering passion, we eagerly await their future endeavors. Stay tuned for more captivating and unique music from Voonic2!
And there you have it! The interview with Voonic2, a band that fearlessly blends chiptunes and rock to create an unforgettable musical experience. We hope you enjoyed getting to know them better and gained insight into their creative journey. Make sure to follow Voonic2's future releases and catch them live whenever you have the chance. Stay tuned for more exciting interviews and features on our indie music blog!