Following on from the release of their much-loved self-titled debut album last year, LA-based outfit Jason Rueger & The Eyes have kicked off their new year with their latest single 'Fault Line'.
Lifted from their sophomore LP 'Dowsing the Desert', which is available to stream now, 'Fault Line' offers up more of that smooth and breezy aesthetic they are known for. Jam-packed with sweet and harmonious textures and uplifting atmosphere throughout, these guys look set to make themselves known to a wider audience very soon.
So with the new single available now, we sat down with Jason to find out more about his background and what has inspired him most over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
As a kid I was obsessed with George Harrison’s sitar on ‘Within you, Without you’.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
It was a blend of classic rock and jazz. It started with The Beatles, Bob Dylan, John Coltrane and I remember a turning point of influence when I found Big Star, Radiohead and Wilco.
What was the first album you remember owning?
The Beatles - Magical Mystery Tour.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
I Must Be In a Good Place Now - Bobby Charles.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I try to find a quiet spot in the house, typically later at night. I’ll have my mics set up so that I can capture ideas as they come. I’ve also found it helps to write with your headphones on, with a little reverb, which I’ve found creates a new space for melodies to bounce around.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Big Thief, Bill Callahan, Jeffrey Silverstein, William Tyler, Haim, Bing & Ruth.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Neil Young.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Whether it be writing, playing a show, or working through technique, music is fascinatingly endless. I also love seeing my songs start as sticks on the ground and building a house around them. That process of starting with nothing and ending with something you’re proud of.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Falling in love with an idea or melody, and not being able to crack the code of making it a complete song. There are many ideas I’ve just had to move on from, but they tend end up resurfacing somewhere else, so its usually not a complete loss.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Find your voice, and lean into it.
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Jason Rueger & The Eyes' new single 'Fault Line' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.