Few independent artists embody the DIY ethos quite like Isaac Winemiller. The Bozeman, Montana-based multi-instrumentalist writes, records, produces, mixes, and masters his own music while also touring internationally as a member of acclaimed bedroom-pop outfit Vansire.
Now returning with his new double single 'Solar Eclipse', Winemiller delivers a release that balances heartfelt vulnerability with groove-driven indie-pop production. Written over the course of two years as both a reflection of and companion to a deeply personal relationship, the songs capture the difficult journey of letting go and finding clarity again.
So with the new release out now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I first fell in love with the alto saxophone. I got one in about 4th grade & remember wailin’ away on it every day for hours on end. It just felt so natural and expressive to play. I played it so freely at a very young age. I also fell in love with playing guitar hero in the basement with my brother Samuel, haha. I suppose that isn’t a real instrument, but it felt so epic & was inspiring.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
The first music I remember resonating with & getting chills from was the works of Elton John, The Beatles, & choral music my parents would play & sing. I loved getting sad to Coldplay when I was in elementary and middle school. And then in high school I was getting into more modern indie stuff like Mac Demarco, Alvvays, Daft Punk, Tame Impala, etc.
What was the first album you remember owning?
My siblings and I had to share a little iPod Shuffle growing up and we only had space on there for a couple albums. I was the youngest of my siblings so never really got to choose what songs got to be on the the iPod Shuffle. But I remember my sister having bought all the Avril Lavigne & Carrie Underwood records (who had just won American Idol). At first I wasn’t into it because my sister liked it, but it really grew on me.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Kathy’s Song by Simon and Garfunkel
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I find that journaling for 15 minutes before I go to bed and right when I wake up helps me feel closer to Source & stay in touch with my emotions. And then playing music right away in the morning with no outcome or goal in mind. Sitting down with a piano or guitar and just kind of letting myself express freely until something sticks. Maybe it’s a couple words or a fragment of a melody. Once I resonate with a feeling or idea, it's just a matter of putting all the musical pieces together in a way that best represents it.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
The Milk Carton Kids, Kings of Convenience, Night Tapes, Sasac
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Tame Impala
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The emotional release & satisfaction I get when creating something is rewarding enough. It’s a gift to be able to wake up every day with the chance to express my existence, feelings & the way I’m experiencing the world. But being able to share this with an audience is the cherry on top. Feeling & seeing how people resonate in their own way with the music I’ve made gives me a sense of purpose and helps me feel connected to a force greater than myself.
And what is the most frustrating part?
It’s hard to maintain any kind of routine. Especially when I’m touring & on the road, I have to be okay with some chaos. It can be very difficult for me to go back and forth between the two. Also, it’s very tough to make a living as a full time musician & artist. Our culture & society simply does not value musicians the same as other professions.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Do what feels good. The music first exists solely for you as the artist. The audience comes last. Focus on what is fun for you. Just create music that feels good to make. If you’re making honest music, the universe will respond & opportunities will arise around you quite organically.
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Isaac Winemiller's new double single 'Solar Eclipse' is out now. Check it out in the player below.