Jay Blanes – To the Moonlight

By starrymag | March 10, 2022

By: Jennifer Vintzileos

 

 

Q) How would you best describe your sound?

 

A) I call it indie pop with a Latin and retro touch! I make it all from my living room so I guess you could also call it bedroom pop. I’ve got plenty of influences though, that’s why you might find a Latin touch or retro / disco reminiscences in my songs.

 

Q) Who are your Top 3 musical influences?

 

A) I love Ed Sheeran. From him I take his attitude, work ethic, values and songwriting techniques. He is a fantastic honest and pop writer. At the same time, I have always enjoyed 80s and Disco music, especially Abba, Grease or Tina Turner. At the same time, I am influenced by having grown up in Spain… I love Pablo Alborán, Melendi, and C.Tangana’s latest album!

 

Q) Tell us the story about your latest single “To the Moonlight.”

 

A) For the first time I have fully embraced my Spanish roots and infused them with my love for British and American indie pop. What I end up with is a “Señorita” style production and the beginning of a new era for me!

I can remember the moment when the chorus, both lyrics and music came to me. It was very quick and easy. I was holding the guitar with my hands (no strap) and wandering around the room. I was getting to know somebody at that time, and I really connected with the desire to be with her. However, when I developed the story, I wrote it as if there was some history between us… I was probably thinking about someone else!

 

Q) You also recently shot a music video for “To the Moonlight.” How did you come up with the concept for the video?

 

A) For this one I really got myself out of the comfort zone and set the challenge to learn a choreography for the music video. I couldn’t envision it in any other way, as the lyrics are pretty clear: “let’s dance our hearts out to the moonlight!” I had also wanted to record a single-shot video for a long time.

I was very lucky to find Rachel Kearon (choreographer), Zoë Slatter (dancer) and Carys Hughes (videographer). They really made it true (them and all those hours I rehearsed in the parking lot on my own. [laughs]).

 

Q) “To The Moonlight” was released on its own and is also the second track on iTunes on your recently released single “Miserable.” I love both songs! What made you decide to release those two songs together?

 

A) Thank you very much!! Actually, this is all part of an EP release plan. “Miserable” was the second track and there will be a third single with an impressive music video before the full EP comes out! It will contain six songs so make sure you subscribe and follow me to stay tuned!

 

Q) “Miserable” has a very upbeat melody in juxtaposition to the lyrics. Why did you decide to use those contrasting elements for this song?

 

A) It just kind of happened. Although the song might seem quite sad based on its lyrics, you can also understand it as an “acceptance” statement. “Hey, I tried to love you, but I just couldn’t then… I wasn’t in the right place.” That’s the message, and while it is somehow sad, these feelings remind us we are alive so why not celebrate them? Let’s celebrate we’re alive, even if we’re sad.

 

Q) So, about this EP. What are some themes you will be exploring on it?

 

A) As it should, the EP speaks about love in all its shapes and forms. Just to list a few ideas: a statement of hope about life which is very linked to self-esteem, a story about a toxic but passionate relationship, an honest acknowledgment that it’s not over when we want it to be over, a reminder to have fun and enjoy the moment…

 

Q) When can fans expect that release, and have you thought about a potential full-length album in the future?

 

A) The EP is set to be released at the beginning of April! I have thought about albums, but I am keeping that option for the future, when I (or a label) can afford it. It is harder to promote and fund!

 

Q) What do you hope fans take away from “To the Moonlight” and “Miserable?”

 

A) The songs are theirs now, so I hope they gain meaning to them as they become part of their lives. My main goal with the EP was to define my sound and set a solid base to play live so that’s all I hope will happen! The rest is up to them!

 

Q) With the release of new music, you also plan to promote in the UK as a one-man show. When can fans expect to hear about upcoming tour dates?

 

A) I am halfway through rehearsals right now, so I am planning to start announcing dates when the EP is released! I might do some gigs before that though. So, again, stay tuned! I’ve got a newsletter. [winks]

 

Q) During live shows what is one of your favorite songs to perform and why?

 

A) “To the Moonlight” is very fun, as I always count on the audience to back me with their singing and the combination sounds fantastic! I’ve played it in a few living rooms for college students and they loved it!

 

Q) What would you like to say to your fans and supporters of your music?

 

A) There are exciting times ahead, but I need everyone’s support to make it happen! Now that three-word slogans are trending, remember: STREAM, SAVE & SHARE!! (and subscribe to my newsletter at jayblanes.com/subscribe)