Having already made his mark with a flurry of impactful offerings these last few years, New York-based composer and producer Josh McCausland is back once again to deliver his immersive new single 'Lurking Within'.
Lifted from his latest studio album 'Pieces From A Forgotten Time', which is available to stream now, 'Lurking Within' continues that broad and wondrous aesthetic he has built for himself. With its darkened textures and progressive tones layered throughout, he continues to cement himself as one of the more inventive names on the rise right now.
So with the new single available to stream now, we sat down with him to find out more about his origins and what has been inspiring him most over the years.
-
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
Guitar, hands down. I was raised playing piano — like a lot of kids — but I found it kind of boring. Everything changed when my dad introduced me to Stevie Ray Vaughan around age 13. I remember thinking, What is this magic? That was my first real introduction to guitar, and I was smitten. I knew I wanted to channel something that powerful.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I grew up on the standards — Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., Harry Connick Jr. — so jazz and blues were household staples. In junior high, I discovered hip hop, and that blend of old soul with new energy was eye-opening. I was also deep into ‘90s punk and bands like Linkin Park, who were fusing rap and rock in a way that felt raw and revolutionary. I was kind of a melting pot of influence — but jazz and blues have always been my core.
What was the first album you remember owning?
Heavier Things (Live Edition) by John Mayer. I found it at an FYE in a mall — serious throwback. I must’ve been around 7 or 8. There was a stack of them by the register, and the guy behind the counter said, “Take one, they’re free.” I ripped it open and listened to it in the food court on my Walkman. It blew my mind. Dang, I’m old.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
“Agape” by Nicholas Britell. I tear up almost every time I hear it. It’s one of the most beautiful pieces of music I’ve ever experienced. I both love and hate Nicholas for writing it — because it’s perfect, and I wish it were mine. But really… Thank you, Nicholas. Truly.
Do you have any habits or rituals when trying to write new music?
I usually start by listening. I’ll dig into archival footage, white noise, ambient recordings — especially space transmissions. I even love listening to air traffic controllers. Sometimes I’ll drop those recordings into my timeline and play piano over them just to see what happens. And I love a good drone. Give me wind, ocean, anything natural. That’s where the magic starts.
Who are your favourite artists right now?
Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross are on constant rotation. I don’t think there’s anyone I listen to more. Their use of sound design and tension is masterful — they place you right inside the world of the music and hold you there in this beautiful, unsettling way. It’s immersive and inspiring.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Probably Nils Frahm. I’d love to share a stage with someone whose work feels so tactile and intentional. Plus, I think he’d be fascinating to get to know.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
A few years back, someone messaged me on Instagram saying they’d recently lost a parent. They told me they’d been a fan of my music for a while, but it wasn’t until their grief hit that they really connected with it. That kind of message is incredibly humbling. I’ve always made music for myself — it’s been a deeply personal outlet — but knowing it can resonate with someone in their most vulnerable moments? That’s a real gift.
And what is the most frustrating part?
Imposter syndrome — no surprise there. It’s a recurring battle. Every time I start something new, I hear that voice asking, What are you doing? I’m not classically trained, I’m self-taught, and music still feels like this strange, personal experiment. The fact that people connect with it still surprises me. And yeah… I usually hate everything I make for at least a while. That’s a tough headspace to work through.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve received as a musician?
Make the work for yourself. Do it because you love it. That’s the whole point. They call it “playing” music for a reason — don’t forget to play.
-
Josh McCausland's new single 'Lurking Within' is available to stream now. Check it out in the player below.