Karmacoda spent some time to answer our questions about their music and how they make it. Let’s see what they have to say!
First off, What’s up with your name? Is there a story behind it?
Hello, this is B. the founding member of Karmacoda. When the band first formed and we were looking for a name I remember how magically the band formed, it was almost like it was based on our collective good karma. Then, because we’re an electronica band and use loops extensively, I thought the musical term “coda” was appropriate since it mean to return to a previous passage like a loop does. And so Karmacoda was formed. Also, I wanted the band’s name to be unique so that if it was searched for on the web only we would show up.
Tell us about your musical past, would you tell us about your early years?
Before the band was formed I began what would become Karmacoda as a solo studio project, for only my personal enjoyment after playing in alternative rock bands in San Francisco. I discovered triphop and chillout music later in my life and the possibilities blew me away. After writing a bunch of new material that would become our first album people were extremely positive and said, “This should be a band with vocals and other musicians so we can see you live.” That’s how the band Karmacoda was formed.
How would you describe your sound?
I’m the band’s producer as well as a member (singer, keys, guitars, etc.) and I wanted our sound to first be the most interesting music that you have ever heard causing people to say, “What is that sound, I’ve never heard anything like that before?”. Then I wanted to blend that with the most engaging vocals you have ever heard. Intrigue the listener with the music and hook them with the vocals.
Which artists have the biggest influence on your sound?
Massive Attack, Radiohead, Portishead, Peter Gabriel, Frank Ocean, old R&B and soul and pop.
What’s the last song you listened to?
Frank Ocean Pink + White
What’s your source for hearing new music?
I subscribe to all the streaming services and am constantly on the lookout for fresh bands and music.
Who is your dream producer?
I like being the bands producer because I can create exactly what I’m hearing in my head.
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
David Bowie, if only.
What led you to music, and what motivates you to keep making it?
I’ve been into music since I was a child, and now I can’t help but make music. When we finish a record I’m immediately onto writing and recording the next one. It’s an obsession.
Tell us about the songwriting process. How does it all come together?
Songs typically start with me creating a musical “sketch” that I share with the band and me asking them, “Is there anything here?”. Typically there is. I first send the sketch to Jessica Ford our female vocalist and she sends back her ideas which are almost always top-notch. Then I send to our bass player Eric for his input. We also work with a bunch of musicians who we know who add their parts.
How do you connect with your audience? What is the easiest way for them to connect with you?
We love hearing from our audience on social media or through plain old email. We love to hear from them. Contact us! We’re friendly!
Facebook
KARMACODA (@karmacodamusic) • Instagram photos and videos
Karmacoda (@Karmacoda) / X (twitter.com)
What’s next for you?
We’re currenly working on finishing our next album. We’re very excited about how it’s shaping up. Stay tuned!
Anything else you’d like to add or let us know about?
Thank you for your interest!
