NINA – Carnival Night

By starrymag | October 10, 2021

By: Jamie Steinberg

 

 

 

Q) How would you describe your sound?

 

A) I’m typically romantic and like to get lost in music like a dream. Sonically, I like to mix genres. Lately, I’m going for a blend of synth-rock, new wave, 80’s inspired pop and sounds that could inspire cinematic imagery. I’m thinking conceptually more than I have before.

 

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

 

A) Depeche Mode, Kim Wilde, Goldfrapp, Desire, Cyndi Lauper, Portishead, Dusty Springfield, Kraftwerk, New Order 

 

Q) Talk about the story behind your new song “Carnival Night.”

 

A) I wrote “Carnival Night” with electro-rock producer Oliver Blair a/k/a Radio Wolf, who at the time was in Northern Ireland, while I was in Berlin. We wanted to create a spellbinding escape story, because at the time we wrote it, everyone was in lockdown. During the cold days of January, we sent ideas back and forth and communicated via email and phone calls, concocting a wild blend of sounds that fit the playfulness and mystery of being at a carnival. We’re also incredibly addicted to horror movies and love surrealism, so we wanted to give the music an eerie atmosphere combining italo, rock, pop and a slow cinematic dance beat.

 

Q) What do you think it is about the song that fans connect to?

 

A) The feedback the fans have given me has been wonderful. They definitely identify with the moment I scream “Welcome to the freakshow.” We’re all cooped up and disconnected from one another because of the pandemic. Going wild and letting loose is something everybody needs sometimes. It’s cathartic!

 

Q) What is your song writing process? Do you need music before you can create lyrics?

 

A) Not necessarily. I write a lot of poetry, sometimes the lyrics come first, other times the melody comes first. Every time I write a song it’s a unique process. I enjoy the surprise and mystery of it all. 

 

Q) Radio Wolf worked on “Carnival Night” as a producer, but how much of hand do you personally have in the production of your music?

 

A) I work very closely with every producer I work with and we always make sure that the original intention of the song is fulfilled as a team. So, in the case of “Carnival Night,” while Oliver (Radio Wolf) physically had his hands on all of the instruments, I chimed in with inspiration and helped supervise the production process. The best collaborations I feel are the ones where you guide one another.

 

Q) Will there be a full album or EP coming in the near future?

 

A) Absolutely! It’s in the works.

 

Q) Where are some of your favorite places to perform and what makes those locations so significant to you?

 

A) I love touring the States. It’s inspiring! I’ve also had some wonderful shows in Buenos Aires, Moscow and Helsinki. The fans were incredibly enthusiastic. They always make me smile. At the end of the day it’s all about connecting with my fans no matter what city or what venue, big or small.

 

Q) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a song in the future?

 

A) M83, Johnny Jewel or John Carpenter 

 

Q) What album/band are you currently listening to and why do you dig them?

 

A) Anything from the record label Italians Do It Better. I just love their style!

 

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is that such an important way for you to connect with your fans?

 

A) I have fans all around the world and social media is a great way to instantly connect with them and share stories. So many of us find friends, lovers and create inner circles based on common interests. I’m grateful that I can be a part of that.

 

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your work?

 

A) Thank you for all the love, support and inspiration.