Artist Interview: Talk In Waves
The Northern Virginia-based project Talk in Waves, led by singer-songwriter Jake, has been making waves in the indie music scene since its formation in 2015. With music that has been featured on major platforms like Netflix and NPR, Talk in Waves explores a unique blend of indie rock, synth-pop, and folk. We sat down with the band to talk about their creative process, the challenges of being an independent artist, and the personal journey that inspires their songs.
Q: Your music has been featured on major platforms like NPR, Netflix, and MTV. How did these opportunities come about, and what was it like hearing your music in such different contexts?
A: Well, first I had to write the music and release the songs—that was the first step. As I began to put the music out there, opportunities started to present themselves. This gave me a little more confidence to continue down this path. Some of it also was me hounding people through email and trying to promote myself. It’s still really cool to tell people my music has been played on Netflix TV shows, MTV, and NPR. It’s an amazing feeling. I grew up on MTV, so it’s still a bit unreal, to tell you the truth.
Q: Formed in 2015, Talk in Waves has seen its fair share of member changes. How has the evolving lineup influenced the band's sound and creative process over the years?
A: It really has changed a bunch over the years. It started as an emotional outlet for myself in the beginning, just a solo project. Then I thought I would try the band thing and add members to see how that went. I wanted to at least give that a try. Having a steady group of people to play music with was fun, but now what I really enjoy is jamming with different people. I think this project was meant to be a solo one. It really is kind of like a diary for myself. It starts with just me on an acoustic guitar. That’s where the song ideas come from.
Q: Jake, as the founder, how do you maintain a consistent artistic vision for Talk in Waves while collaborating with new musicians?
A: I just try to stay inspired as much as I can. I am a huge fan of music in general. There is so much out there these days. If you dig just a little bit, there is always good art to find that will inspire you.
Q: Your music is described as a blend of indie/rock, synth-pop, and folk. How do you navigate these genres, and what elements from each are most important to your sound?
A: I am so A.D.D. when it comes to music! It’s really hard to stick to just one genre. I am a fan of so many different styles. It probably makes it harder for me to find long-term fans, but I decided early on that I wanted to make music for myself first, and the right people will stick around to see what I do next.
Q: What does the name "Talk in Waves" mean to you, and how does it reflect the themes you explore in your songs?
A: Well, I really loved the idea of having the word "Waves" in the band name. "Talk in Waves" was just kind of a random idea. I was spitballing with my writing partner on new band name ideas. I feel like it just kind of hit me, and I was like, “that’s the one!” To me, it’s like telling stories through sound waves.
Q: Your music is described as a "personal journey." Can you share a specific song or album that you feel best represents a significant chapter in your life, and the story behind it?
A: I would say a lot of the music comes from loss. Not all of the songs, but many of the songs I’ve written over the last decade or so were me just trying to get back to equilibrium, trying to make sense of all the wreckage I had found myself in. I went through a series of painful breakups, and music was my way of trying to feel better and move on.
Q: Many artists draw inspiration from their hometowns. How has being based in Northern Virginia influenced your songwriting or the band's identity?
A: Great question. This area is such a mixing bowl. I live right outside Washington, D.C., which is probably known best for its punk scene or go-go. The thing is, this is such an eclectic area for music. There is a lot of talent. I feel like maybe I’m influenced by this area in the sense that my music is kind of all over the place. I’ve got some rock, folk, R&B, and pop songs. It’s hard for me to just stay in one lane.
Q: What's the most challenging aspect of being an independent band in today's music industry, and what's the most rewarding?
A: I would say that the hardest thing in today’s music industry is the fact that there are so many artists and bands these days, maybe more than ever. The hardest part is to stand out among all of them. I think you really have to be more authentic and outwork the rest. That’s what I try to do, anyway. The most rewarding part is when you do cut through and you do find an audience because it takes a lot to stand out these days.
Q: Looking back at your career so far, is there a particular live performance or moment that stands out as a turning point for the band?
A: There have been a few moments. Definitely getting the sync placements are big moments for me. I would say having songs on Netflix TV shows has really been a big deal for me. To this day, I love telling people my music is on TV. Also, after releasing my song "Can We Go Back" and getting some incredible responses was super rewarding. Some of the comments were so fulfilling and rewarding. It really means a lot when people just genuinely connect with the music.
Q: When you're writing a new song, what does your creative process look like? Do you start with a melody, a lyric, or a specific emotion you want to convey?
A: It usually starts with me just jamming on the guitar. I just play and play until I find something that strikes me, maybe a chord or a progression. Then from there, I try to come up with lyrics that describe where I am at. Music is therapy for me.
Q: What's one piece of advice you would give to an aspiring musician who is just starting their own band?
A: Do it and have fun. Don’t take it so seriously. Remember, at the end of the day, that’s what it’s really about. Everything else is a bonus.
Q: The indie scene is full of unique voices. Who are some of your biggest musical influences, both within and outside of the indie/rock genre?
A: I still love the classics. I grew up on grunge. Some of my favorite artists are dead now, sadly. One of my favorite voices in music was Chris Cornell. I’m also a huge Pearl Jam fan. Some more current artists I’m into now are Lord Huron, Foster the People, and Djo.
Q: You've had some impressive media placements. What's your next big goal for Talk in Waves, whether it's a new album, a tour, or a collaboration?
A: I just want to keep releasing great music. That is really my goal. Everything after that is just a bonus. I love the process of creating and releasing music. If I can just keep doing that, I’ll be a happy dude.
Q: How do you feel your music has evolved from your earliest work to your most recent releases?
A: I would like to think it’s getting better and maybe stronger. That has always been my goal, is just to improve a little bit. As long as each song is a little bit better than the one before, then I believe I’ve done my job.
Q: Beyond the music itself, what message or feeling do you hope listeners take away from a Talk in Waves song?
A: I hope either to make people feel a little less lonely or maybe at least get their spirits lifted. That would make me happy.
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