Congratulations on the release of your new self-titled EP “After Berlin”, it is absolutely brilliant!! One track which really stands out is “ballad of the maniac”, can you take us through the writing process for this song and the inspiration behind it?
After Berlin: Thanks for your kind words. We usually try to create an immersive atmosphere of sound, whether it is with synths, piano or guitars. The important point for us is to quickly find a precise emotion. For “ballad of the maniac” we wanted to tell the story of a man confused to the point he can no longer differentiate evil from good. We wanted to make a mysterious dance track with a heavy groove and a spooky synth riff. We started the song with the riff.We played with the pitch bend of the keyboard to create that “drunk riff” effect.
Who are some of your biggest inspirations when it comes to your music?
After Berlin: Bands like Pink Floyd, Gorillaz or Radiohead. Other artists like Pharell , Travis Scott, Fka Twigs. Wealso love the personal music of producers like Brian Eno and Mike Dean. We also listen to all genres of music : electronic, rap, jazz, classical music, original soundtracks.
The music video for “ballad of the maniac” is so well done, wow!! Can you give some insight into the quote featured at the start of the video and how it ties into the song?
After Berlin: Thank you, we appreciate it. We always try to install context for the audience to dive deeper into our world. The song evokes a man completely lost that hopes to find the light again and escape from madness. That feeling of mental confusion is illustrated with a car trip in the video. We wrote an intro text because we wanted to give a hint to invite the viewer to our dream… or nightmare.
If you could have any artist cover one of your songs, who would you pick, and which song would you want them to cover?
After Berlin: We would like our dear friend Neon Valley to cover one our song but we’re afraid he doesn’t like our music (hahaha)
What would you say is the proudest moment in your career thus far? And what is one thing you hope to achieve in your career one day?
After Berlin: After Berlin is a very young project but we were really glad and proud when we released our first music video for the song “eventide”. It was the first time we directed a video and we were really happy with the result. We really want to direct a movie one day and create an original soundtrack for it.
So what can we expect next from you guys? After this incredible project, I’m sure you have a very bright future ahead and I can’t wait to hear more!! :)
After Berlin: New music, new emotions, new videos and live shows in 2023. Thank you
Interviewed By Sarah Curry
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