Surprise Baby took time out of her busy schedule to answer our questions about her music and how she makes it. Let’s see what she has to say!
First off, What’s up with your name? Is there a story behind it?
Sarsten was in fact, a surprise baby. Secondly, we think it’s just a fun name.
Tell us about your musical past, would you tell us about your early years?
I (Sarsten) started piano when I was four. Violin would come next, and much later choir, midway through high school. I started playing guitar and trying to write songs when I was about 14 which is when I met Claire Morison. I had a band after high school for a couple years back home in Montana, but ultimately moved to LA in 2012 to study music.
How would you describe your sound?
Indie rock, experimental pop, alternative, folk. The songs on the EP span a lot of ground genre-wise, which was our intention.
Which artists have the biggest influence on your sound?
Radiohead, Gorillaz, The Black Keys, Kendrick Lamar, Modest Mouse, Little Dragon, Nirvana, Frank Ocean
What’s the last song you listened to?
Few Layers for Smith by Misha Panfilov
What’s your source for hearing new music?
My friends, NTS radio, KCRW and KXLU.
Who is your dream producer? Nigel Godrich, Mark Ronson, Pharrell (these are Claire’s dream producers as well as mine.)
If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be?
Gorillaz
What led you to music, and what motivates you to keep making it?
The feeling I have gotten from a very young age listening to music was more powerful than anything else I have ever experienced. Now making sounds with other people and collaborating creatively adds another layer to that feeling, and I really feel it can be a spiritual practice for me.
Tell us about the songwriting process. How does it all come together?
Depends on my mood, or if I’m writing alone or jamming with someone. I write a lot in the mornings, and when I’m out and about I can draw from that well of random ideas. When I sit down at the guitar or bass or piano, I usually start with a chord progression or riff and go from there.
How do you connect with your audience? What is the easiest way for them to connect with you?
Currently just performing live when we get the chance and connecting with fans in person at shows.
What’s next for you?
We are currently recording a full length album in the studio and working on booking more shows around LA. Also planning a mini-tour for later in the year after the EP comes out.
Anything else you’d like to add or let us know about?
Our next single “Motorcycle” is coming out later this month and the full EP will be out on September 28th.
Bio:
Surprise Baby is the Los Angeles based project of musician and songwriter Sarsten Noice and producer Claire Morison. Described as rock and roll cowboy meets indie pop, the two, who are originally from Northwest Montana, use their long-standing relationship as friends and creative partners to craft a sound which is both authentic and captivating. Currently based in LA.
