Last week, when New Zealand-based artist Bartells released his latest single Mistaken, we were immediately on board with his captivating indie-folk sounds.
So fresh off the track’s release, we caught up with the artist himself to chat about the song, performing live, and what the future holds.
Fresh off the release of his incredible latest single Mistaken, we caught up with New Zealand artist Bartells for a chat.
HAPPY: Hey, how’s it going? What are you up to at the moment?
BARTELLS: Hey Bill, I’m good thank you. At the moment I am writing songs, planning gigs and tracking another song in the studio shortly. All is very busy but I’m totally enjoying all of it at the moment thanks.
HAPPY: We’re loving Mistaken! How does it feel having the track out there in the world?
BARTELLS: Thanks, I’m stoked you like it! I’m happy with the response I’m getting from the track and that people can relate to it also. I’m glad I have set it free and hope to get it to as many ears as possible haha.
HAPPY: Could you tell us a bit about the song?
BARTELLS: Mistaken was written about getting sober a few years ago and reflecting on some of the darker times of being in addiction but looking at it from a positive sort of angle I guess. It’s a bit of closure on a few things for me I guess. It was recorded in Auckland at Black Dog Studio, mixed in L.A, and mastered at K.O.G in NZ.
HAPPY: You’ve got a fair few releases under your belt now… how do you see this new single as being different from past material? If at all…
BARTELLS: On this one, I have lent into the heavier side of things and am totally exposed. I feel a little more than some of the others, I feel. It has a bit more darkness before the light than my others so far.
HAPPY: We’ve seen a few videos floating around of you playing live, and it feels like there’s a bit of a different vibe to the sound. Do you approach your music differently at all when performing live, compared to on the recording?
BARTELLS: Hmmm. It depends. My vocals in my recordings are whereI’mm most comfortable soundwise, but playing live I tend to try different approaches when playing other songs. I treat my voice like any other instrument so like to explore sometimes.
HAPPY: Are there any particular artists you’re seeking inspiration from at the moment?
BARTELLS: No, not in particular. Meditation music lately has been giving me some inspiration for melodies and feelings I think.
HAPPY: What’s next for Bartells? Any other exciting plans in the works?
BARTELLS: A couple more singles. I’m still trying new ideas so will be doing a heavier rock track and another slightly different feel on another toe-tapper of a track.
HAPPY: Cheers for the chat!
Mistaken is available now. Listen above.
