Following on from the release of his much-loved debut album 'Who I Thought I Wanted To Be' earlier this year, US artist Hazel Bloom is back once again to deliver his euphoric new single 'growing pains'.
Channelling more of that rich and enigmatic pop-rock aesthetic he has built for himself, 'growing pains' makes for a rousing return for the artist at the helm. With its bright and shimmering textures, soaring atmosphere, and mesmerising vocals layered throughout, he is returning with one of his most anthemic efforts to date here.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him 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?
Bass guitar! That was the first instrument I bought and learned to play at like 12 years old. My friends and I always wanted to be in a huge band ever since we heard Taking Back Sunday for the first time. So we all got instruments and started learning, and we’ve played in bands ever since!
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I’ve always been a pop punk kid. I grew up on Green Day, Taking Back Sunday, Yellowcard, Brand New and all those similar bands. The energy in the music just always spoke to me and gave me a sense of euphoria. That’s what inspired me to make music myself, in hopes to give listeners that same feeling I get.
What was the first album you remember owning?
First album that isn't a mixtape that I personally owned was The Young and The Hopeless by Good Charlotte. I was about 8 when that album dropped and I was like wtf is this?! This is fucking killer. Probably the album that inspired so much angst in my life lol.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
If I had to pick just one right now it would be Robbers by The 1975. This has been one of my favourite songs for years. I just love everything about it, and the amount of emotions that fly through my body every time I hear it. The euphoric feeling and chills I get from this song is exactly why I started making music. If i wrote that song, I can't even believe how I’d feel.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
I have my morning affirmations lol but other than that i usually try to let the music and lyrics come to me. When I try to force anything it usually never comes out good or anything i like. usually late at night is when i'm most creative so that's when I usually write. If I'm stuck I'll listen to some inspiring music.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Right now im listening to a lot of Quinn XCII, The Band CAMINO, AJR, The Wldlfe, and Charlotte Sands. I've really been into that pop rock /alternative pop type style and some emo. They are all incredible artists that I hope to tour with one day.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Twenty One Pilots hands down. I've loved their music for years and their shows are so lively and fan orientated. They make the fans a part of their show and make sure they are included which I love. They are all about their fans and appreciate them so much. That’s the image I want for myself, so to open for them would be an absolute dream.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part of being a musician is being able to create a community of like minded people that care for one another. People from all backgrounds come together and form this special bond over music. It's a place where you feel like you belong. All I've wanted is to create a space where people can be themselves and feel accepted. To do that through my music is definitely the most rewarding.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Comparing where you are in your career to others. It’s something I struggle with immensely. I try to remind myself that success comes in time and when the time is right. To stop comparing yourself to others because that is the death of joy and success. Live the moment and enjoy the ride.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
If you love it, just keep doing it. As long as you love doing something, it doesn't matter what success or when success comes. As long as you have a steady income, just keep plugging away at what you love. Success is relative, if you love doing something, and just getting better at that thing is success to you then you've made it. Maybe making a living off of what you love is coming in the future. Either way, as long as you're doing what you love, that is success in my eyes. You never know what’s around the bend.
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Hazel Bloom's new single 'growing pains' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.