For Norwegian songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Andreas Ringsjø, music has become a deeply personal form of expression. Working under the name Lumwest, the Kristiansand artist draws inspiration from the swirling psychedelia of the 60s and contemporary artists including Tame Impala, Temples and Pond, creating immersive, dreamlike music that often conceals considerably darker themes.
His latest single ‘Companions of Time’ introduces his forthcoming second album, due in early 2027. Written, recorded and produced entirely in his bedroom, with Ringsjø performing every instrument himself, the track combines hazy psychedelic textures with an unsettling exploration of time, isolation and the fear of being left behind.
So with the new single 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 playing piano in the beginning of high-school.
What kind of music did you love when you were younger?
I was into a lot of alternative pop and punk.
What was the first album you remember owning?
It took some time before I got around to actually buying my first vinyl. But then I saw Lonerism by Tame Impala in a record store. Being my favourite album I knew I just had to get it. 4 years later I've had the privilege of having Kevin Parker himself sign it for me.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Apocalypse Dreams, obviously. I've tried countless times to recreate the feeling I get from listening to it. And I often have to hold myself back from taking too much inspiration.
Do you have any habits or rituals you go through when trying to write new music?
The instrumentals often come from having some riff I've recorded in the past, or some sound that I created. The lyrics have a way more ritualistic way of getting written. I often myself outside, alone in the middle of the night with a pack of cigarettes to be in the right mood for writing lyrics.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
Tame Impala of course, as he was my gateway into psychedelic music. That led me to Pond, Gum, Temples, Psychedelic Porn Crumpets and Altin Gün. As well as older icons in the game like Led Zeppelin, Jefferson Airplane, The Doors, Hawkwind and The Beatles.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Again, it couldn´t be anyone else but Tame Impala for me.
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
The most rewarding part about being a musician has to be the messages and dm's I get about them appreciating my music. It truly makes me feel like all the work is worth it.
And what is the most frustrating part?
The most frustrating part has to be posting promotional videos, especially on TikTok. I don´t mind the first few videos I make to tease the song and promote once it's out. But trying to maintain momentum on TikTok by posting frequently honestly just feels like it takes away the intrigue and mystery about the song.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
The best piece of advice I have received as a musician is the importance of mental preparation before a performance. I've found focusing on vocal and physical stims helps a lot.
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Lumwest's new single 'Companions of Time' is out now. Check it out in the player below.