The emotion you've captured in this song is tangible, stirring up the listener's own vivid summer memories. What is the story behind the song "Circles"?
Allison: I wrote Circles during the summer of 2020 when the world felt very uncertain and we were not allowed outside of our houses except for essentials. At night I found comfort in skateboarding around my neighborhood just soaking up the night air and the freedom. Circles was born out of that feeling of finding comfort and a sense of normalcy during a very abnormal time.
I see from your Insta that you play both the guitar and the piano - how did you learn to play these instruments?
Allison: I took piano lessons as a child and was never a great piano student but the fundamentals stuck with me. I picked it back up a few years ago when I started writing songs of my own. My Mother bought me a guitar in college, I think she knew I needed a creative outlet between all my grueling regular classes and it opened up a whole new world for me of being able to sing and accompany myself. I'm very mediocre at both instruments but find a lot of joy in playing and trying to improve.
How would you describe your songwriting process, what is it like?
Allison: Most often my process starts with a feeling or an idea that I feel pulled to capture and put into song. The lyrics and melody usually start flowing simultaneously and I grab my phone and record voice memos and write the lyrics down in my notes app. After that initial burst of creativity, the work really begins. I feel like I'm oftentimes trying to refine and sift through ideas to discover what the song wants to be.
If you weren't pursuing a music career, what would you see yourself doing instead?
Allison: I have a lot of varied interests that pull me in lots of directions but music was my first love and has proven to be the most enduring one. I enjoy painting, videography, and have a Master's in science so probably something along those lines.
Of the songs that you have released, which is your favorite, or holds the most meaning for you? You can only pick one!
Allison: Oooh, that's a tough one! My song "For You" was written during a difficult and transitional phase of my life and holds a special place in my heart. The emotions are so personal to me that it still gives me chills when I listen to it sometimes. I had always pictured the production of it to have lots of vocal layers and an almost otherworldly sound and I think we achieved that which makes it very rewarding and magical for me as a songwriter.
Who are some of your biggest musical influences or inspirations?
Allison: I love The Lumineers for their raw storytelling and the folksy vibe of their music. I'm also endlessly inspired by Taylor Swift and her ability to reinvent her style and create magic on every album. Ingrid Michealson is another favorite and had a big influence on me when I first started playing guitar. Her songs feel very personal and feminine and are still some of my very favorite songs to listen to.
Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass
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