Discovering the Soul of Music: A Journey with Melody Zenith

I had the pleasure of conducting a Q&A session with singer and songwriter Melody Zenith, where we discussed her upbringing, musical journey, hobbies, and interests.

Amit Ahuja: I’m deeply interested in learning more about your background and the journey that has shaped your identity. Could you share where you grew up and your hometown environment? I would love to understand how your upbringing has influenced your values and worldview.

Melody Zenith: I grew up in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The Twin Cities are diverse, creative, and blue-collar. The area I grew up in included music venues, open mics, and punk rock art surplus stores within walking distance. It's an immigrant-heavy area. It's far more affordable than where I currently live (Los Angeles) and much smaller, but still urban.

Amit Ahuja: In addition, I’d like to explore the role of your cultural heritage. How has your cultural background contributed to shaping who you are today? Have traditions, stories, or customs left a lasting impression on you? Lastly, have any significant milestones—accomplishments, challenges, or transformative experiences—been particularly meaningful in your personal growth?

Melody Zenith: While I've had the privilege to experience a lot in my life, my own family is very small. I wouldn't describe my direct family as particularly cultural or in touch with our roots. Music is probably the only thing I associate with my family, so I consider those my roots.

As far as accomplishments and transformative experiences, establishing myself independently and moving to Los Angeles is an accomplishment in itself. I'm also sober, which has made me a lot more productive and has helped me strive to become a high achiever in terms of my ambitions. The average musician has not been heard by as many people as I've been heard by or had a lot of the experiences I've had. I recognize that it is a blessing and that more is to come. I've also gotten to work with a couple of artists I'd consider myself a big fan of and had some positive and inspirational interactions with some of my idols.

Amit Ahuja: Could you share the story behind what inspired you to pursue a music career? What early experiences, people, or moments in your life influenced your decision to dedicate yourself to music as a profession?

Melody Zenith: My dad was a guitar teacher and a professional musician for a period of his life. He had a lot of stories about playing with famous artists. In his own right, my dad had a song chart on Billboard in the top 200 and taught me songwriting basics. My mother was musical too. My parents had a band when they first met, and they still played together when I was little. My mom used to wipe off every piano key before band practice (even though no one played the piano; it was just a family heirloom in our house), and I became intrigued and started playing it as my first informal instrument because I wasn't yet old enough for guitar. I grew up really poor, but when you don't really have anything, you don't know what you're missing, so I can't complain. I started writing songs at a very early age and later became interested in poetry and electronic music. I started performing at open mics when I was 15.

Amit Ahuja: What drew you to darkwave and synth pop, both musically and aesthetically?

Melody Zenith: From my basic understanding, darkwave is just synth pop that explores melancholy and dark themes. I feel like my music has a sort of glossy pop element, but the base of all of it is very darkwave. My songs are usually not wholly happy, but rather they confront difficult themes, topics, or certain feelings. At best, I'd say I can be kind of whimsical, dark, and weird. I love the drama of 80s synth pop and 90s music, and my interest in electronic music initially came from discovering artists like Bjork and Tricky as a teen.

Amit Ahuja: Which bands or albums had the most significant impact on your sound inside and outside of the genre you currently focus on?

Melody Zenith: Some standout impactful albums for me would be Kate Bush's Hounds of Love, Live Through This by Hole, Homogenic by Bjork, and Little Earthquakes by Tori Amos. I'm really into The Cure, She Wants Revenge, Night Club, London After Midnight, David Bowie, Sade, Tori Amos, Portishead, Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, Lana Del Rey, and plenty of smaller, underground darkwave bands. One of my favorite independent artists is a woman named Phildel.

Amit Ahuja: Who have been some of your most significant male and female musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound or approach as an artist?

Melody Zenith: I suppose everyone can offer something different, right? In terms of production, I bow down to people like Trent Reznor and Mike Dean. Just incredibly next-level stuff. Vocally, recently, I decided I think Whitney Houston is the greatest vocalist to have ever lived in the recent history of recording music. Her voice is so angelic. There's so much to appreciate musically; I'm just into everything, and I love big icons. Sometimes I go out of my genre and love just learning someone's story, and will come out of it with a new appreciation for their talent. I think The Cure is one of the best bands to ever exist, and I love that Robert Smith seems so humble about it still.

Amit Ahuja: How do you blend the atmospheric elements of darkwave with the catchy melodies of synth pop?

Melody Zenith: I feel like I did that on Strangers and Fame, Rockstar, and most of my music, I think. A lot of my melodies are very pop-oriented, but it's nostalgic yet modern too.

Amit Ahuja: What do you think defines the difference between darkwave and synth pop?

Melody Zenith: One is intended for mainstream consumption, and the other is niche and darker. It's sort of like comparing Lovecats by The Cure with Figurehead by The Cure.

Amit Ahuja: How do you approach songwriting differently for a darkwave track versus a synth pop track?

Melody Zenith: I don't approach it differently.

Amit Ahuja: How has your experience navigating the darkwave and synth pop scene been shaped by your perspective as a woman, and what unique challenges or opportunities has that brought to your journey as an artist?

Melody Zenith: The safety element is always an issue when you're a woman. The underground music scene can be crazy. You end up spending a lot of time in bars and clubs (which is especially funny for me as a sober person), which can be hard for a woman to navigate. You have to be careful, for sure. I also think female vocalists and producers can be underestimated a lot. I try to go out of my way to support other female artists because of this.

Amit Ahuja: What unique qualities set you apart as a remarkable singer?

Melody Zenith: I don't know; I think I'm a good singer and a better songwriter who can play a couple of instruments. Thank you, though!

Amit Ahuja: Can you walk us through the sources of your lyrical inspiration—whether personal experiences, stories you've heard, or abstract ideas—and how those influences shape your songwriting process? What does it feel like to transform those deeply personal or creative expressions into a live performance, and how do you connect with the audience through your words on stage?

Melody Zenith: I guess I fell in love with writing and language at the same time I fell in love with music. What I write about varies greatly, and I can't pinpoint a specific process. Sometimes I write about things that have happened or things that I wish would happen. Mostly, I don't really believe I'm anything but a vessel for the universe to speak through, so while the songs might have personal meaning to me, I don't take ownership of them. That's also how I feel when connecting with a live audience. It feels like communicating with something deeper.

Amit Ahuja: Could you share detailed insights into the creative process, themes, and inspirations behind the tracks Rock Star, Strangers, Vampire, and Fame?

Melody Zenith: The songs are all about different kinds of vampires, literally and metaphorically. Energy vampires, and romanticized monster movie vampires. Fame is about the dark side of Hollywood, and so is Rockstar in ways. Vampire and Strangers are more closely aligned with movie vampires.

https://youtu.be/PlZoI95ImCo?si=tcdFKnlCHDSjgfLq

Amit Ahuja: Has a message or moment with a fan made you truly realize the deeper emotional or personal impact of your music, beyond just entertainment? What’s something about the day-to-day of being in a band that fans might not realize?

Melody Zenith: Someone told me they became a member of Finland's national choir because my music inspired them to sing. I think that might be my favorite story I've heard yet.

Amit Ahuja: Are there any local or online communities that have been important for your growth as an artist?

Melody Zenith: Not really, I was a bit of a lone wolf. I preferred reading and writing much to socializing when I was a teen.

Amit Ahuja: If you were given the fantastic opportunity to open for any band or go on a world tour, which bands would you choose to join on this exciting journey?

Melody Zenith: I'd love to tour with Garbage, London After Midnight, Boy Harsher, and Chelsea Wolfe.

Amit Ahuja: If you could collaborate with any musician, living or past, who would it be and why?

Melody Zenith: Kate Bush, because she's one of my biggest inspirations.

Amit Ahuja: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through music?

Melody Zenith: I think while pursuing a professional career in Hollywood, you quickly learn where you fall in the spectrum of entertainers, and what your values are and what they aren't.

Amit Ahuja: What keeps you inspired as an artist?

Melody Zenith: I continue to learn new things and keep my eyes and ears open for new artists to inspire me. I love seeing successful independent acts in particular, ones that have somehow remained uncorrupted by showbiz.

Amit Ahuja: What insights or recommendations do you have for musicians who face rejection or experience setbacks in their careers? Specifically, how can these artists cope with disappointment and use those challenges as stepping stones for future growth?

Melody Zenith: Entertainment is a business with tons of rejection; it just takes a few people believing in you to make a difference sometimes, though. You just have to keep trying to push through that wall. Never discount any meeting; it could change your life.

Amit Ahuja: Is making music more of a release, a discovery, or a confrontation for you?

Melody Zenith: Sometimes, if I write something particularly dark, I think of it as a release. I don't think of it as a discovery or confrontation, usually.

Amit Ahuja: Is there a message you hope fans walk away with after listening to your music, or do you prefer to leave it open to interpretation?

Melody Zenith: I prefer it to be open to interpretation.

Amit Ahuja: What’s your favorite song to play live and why?

Melody Zenith: I think definitely Fame. There's a part 2 to that song that isn't on Spotify (it's available on Patreon), and I love performing the full song and seeing the live reactions. Check it out www.patreon.com/melodyzenith.

Amit Ahuja: What’s your favorite part about performing live?

Melody Zenith: The feeling when I get off the stage, and I know it was a good set, and the audience enjoyed themselves. It's a relief you did a good job, and a feeling of joy—a non-synthetic high. Just pure adrenaline!

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear about any exciting projects, tours, or collaborations you have on the horizon! What are you looking forward to the most?

Melody Zenith: I'm planning to do a West Coast tour soon, and I'm working on new music!

Amit Ahuja: Can you share three individuals who have positively or negatively influenced your life, and why?

Melody Zenith: I think Marilyn Monroe, Hayao Miyazaki, and David Bowie. I just find Marilyn really fascinating. She is very much a symbol of my interest in glamour, which influences some of my work. I love Hayao Miyazaki; I admire his ability to create whimsical worlds that also explore serious topics. He's very political without having to make a single direct statement, which inspires me too. Lastly, David Bowie is, in my opinion, the perfect rockstar.

Amit Ahuja: What kinds of TV shows, movies, books, or podcasts do you connect with—and what is it about them that draws you in? Is it the storytelling, character development, the themes they explore, or just the overall craft?

Melody Zenith: I feel like I can appreciate a good movie of any kind or any genre, but I suppose I find myself watching a lot of documentaries, anime, and gothic horror. For me, I don't like actively being scared, but I appreciate classic horror—like Dracula and Frankenstein. I also love 90s and 80s classics, like The Fifth Element, Hackers, The Bodyguard, and High Fidelity. It's all good fun. I also love documentaries and film analysis, and I enjoy certain classic old movies.

Amit Ahuja: How do you define happiness in your life, and how does that connect to your vision of success?

Melody Zenith: I think happiness can be found in even the smallest things. It shouldn't be connected to a vision of success, but I can't lie—of course, I feel more satisfied and content when I'm seeing success.

Amit Ahuja: Do you have hobbies or interests outside of music that get you fired up?

Melody Zenith: Does my cat count as a hobby? I'm very passionate about my cat. He also stars frequently in my Twitch streams on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Amit Ahuja: Let's talk about how you've dealt with mental health struggles. What strategies, coping tricks, or support systems have helped you? Additionally, what advice or insights would you like to share with others your age who are facing similar challenges?

Melody Zenith: I think putting your phone away to avoid burnout is a good technique. I'm pretty addicted to mine, but I'm working on it. I'm also a fan of meditation and going on walks. Also, having people you can talk to—I mean, really talk to about everything. I'm also sober, which has improved my mental health too. Sometimes, it's better to be alone than around people who aren't good for you.

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with humanity if you had the world’s attention for five minutes?

Melody Zenith: I guess I'd advocate for the protection of the LGBTQ community and reproductive rights.

Amit Ahuja: Thanks to Melody Zenith for sharing her story with us.

Please explore the following links to support and follow Melody Zenith:

Melody Zenith Website:

https://www.melodyzenith.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf23cYdhzH4blcecSHevJHDAu_Iw1h8ZVdO0gdxlbCG8pLaT96S9zkK7iGhOA_aem_opJlnZSSQvdWFUde0_lEZg

Support her Patreon page:

https://www.patreon.com/melodyzenith?utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacTKzFg85PEX7DVbWTAAjZGGAUzBOSoeZriPWKkHAGHBqb6dzgh6k4WI3o9SQ_aem_b7l6gJEYLc-mBdwfSDX1vQ

Her other links:

https://linktr.ee/melodyzenith?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAac1aX3agX5ig6MBzXc0m3tcQafZdNz4Ybs0_pp1WTiHII2ESJlz9FG0_lj-Uw_aem_7TLanmHs2vfcsIGMFfc9YA

***Video and photos are provided by Melody Zenith, unless stated otherwise.***

Exploring the Gothic Electronic Sound: A Journey with Chateau Noir

I had the incredible opportunity to conduct a Q&A session with Gothic Electronic artists Emily and Brent from Chateau Noir. During our discussion, we explored their individual upbringings, musical journeys, the music they create, as well as their hobbies and interests. I hope you find this read enjoyable!

Amit Ahuja: I’m deeply interested in learning more about your backgrounds and the journeys that have shaped your identities. Could you share where you grew up and your hometown environment? I would love to understand how your upbringing has influenced your values and worldview.

Emily: I had a very turbulent and nomadic childhood, moving between my birth home of Toronto, Canada; Sydney, Australia; and the US. Because I moved around so frequently, I often turned to art as a source of stability ever since I was very young. As I grew up, and my life got more stable, I was lucky enough to continue cultivating my creative impulses and taking them more seriously. Now I do art and teach art for a living.

Brent: I had quite a different experience as a child than Emily. I lived in one place for the majority of my life. This afforded me the opportunity to be a part of lots of bands and have lots of transformative experiences. My good fortune is not lost on me, however. Having the opportunity to create the kind of music we make is something I have wanted since I was a kid, and doing it with Emily is a dream come true.

Amit Ahuja: In addition, I’d like to explore the role of your cultural heritage. How has your cultural background contributed to shaping who you are today? Have traditions, stories, or customs left a lasting impression on you? Lastly, have any significant milestones—accomplishments, challenges, or transformative experiences—been particularly meaningful in your personal growth?

Emily: My mom is Canadian, and my dad is British, so my cultural heritage is a mix of North American and British. I grew up learning a lot about England and the town in Yorkshire where my dad was raised – a town called Whitby. When I was in my early 20s, I spent a year living in England as part of a study abroad program and visited Whitby multiple times. It was really funny and interesting to learn that Whitby actually has a “Whitby Goth Weekend” which is held twice a year. Thousands of goth people from around the world go to Whitby to participate. I’ve never done this Weekend yet but it’s definitely on my bucket list. This knowledge isn’t meaningful to my personal growth per se; I just think it's funny since we make goth music. Like a fun full circle!

Brent: I would say the customs and traditions in my life are more self-created than from my heritage. I have little rituals that I do at certain times. Like certain movies I watch on certain days of the year, or music I listen to before I perform in one of my bands.

Amit Ahuja: I’m genuinely looking forward to learning about each of your musical journeys. Could you share a defining moment that ignited your passion for music? Perhaps it was a concert that left a lasting impression, a song that resonated deeply with you, or a pivotal experience that inspired you to begin playing an instrument?

Emily: I’ve been a fan and participant in underground music for a long time, and the shows that have left the deepest impression on me have always been the smaller, more intimate shows. One that stands out was seeing a band called Marriages at the Echoplex in 2014 or 2015. They performed in the middle of the room, surrounded by the audience in a circle. Because the venue was relatively small, the audience wasn’t very big — so I ended up standing right behind the singer, Emma Ruth Rundle (who is still a favorite musician of mine!). It was incredible to be that close to a band I admired, watching them perform their songs. I love those kinds of experiences, and I hope we get to play shows like that in the future — ones that leave a lasting impression on people.

Brent: My parents bought me a drum set for my twelfth birthday, and I have had a lifelong love affair with all things musical since then.

Amit Ahuja: What drew you to the goth scene, both musically and aesthetically?

Brent: To me, all extreme or underground music genres are part of a continuum, so Goth music feels like a natural evolution from other styles I love.

Emily: I definitely haven’t been in the goth scene my whole life. I was a bit of a late bloomer, and I attribute a lot of that to moving around a lot as a child. I really started to wear goth clothes and listen to primarily goth music in my late teens/early 20s. For me, once I discovered that subculture and started wearing the clothes/listening to the music/etc., I finally felt the most “me” that I’ve ever felt. That definitely has not changed even though I’m now in my mid-30s. If anything, it’s more the case now than ever.

Amit Ahuja: How did you all come to focus on the distinct genre of Gothic Electronic music?

Emily: I think some bands worry about being pigeon-holed with a genre, but for us, we really identify with goth music so we are very comfortable being “labelled” so-to-speak.

Brent: I think the trend among lots of electronic acts is to cultivate an impersonal or mechanical aesthetic. We lean into all things Gothic, so out comes music with an aesthetic to match.

Amit Ahuja: Who are some of the most significant musical or artistic influences on your sound within the gothic or dark electronic scene?

Brent: Ministry.

Emily: I love and listen to darkwave and goth music all the time. I don’t know if the stuff I listen to influences our sound per se, but lately I’ve listened to a lot of female-fronted acts like Pixel Grip, Dlina Volny, Boy Harsher, Glaring, Suzi Sabatoge, Corlyx, Youth Code, etc. Women are killing it in the genre lately!

Amit Ahuja: I’m curious about the story behind Chateau Noir. How did the band get started, and what does the name mean? Who originally came up with the idea to form the band, and what were you all hoping to create or express when you started?

Emily: Brent and I had a back-and-forth for a little while where we would share potential band names with each other. Chateau Noir came to us pretty quickly, actually. I was listening to Ville Valo’s solo album Neon Noir (both Brent and I were big fans of early HIM), and I really liked the way “noir” sounded. “Chateau Noir” kind of popped into my head, and I texted it to Brent. He was just like “that’s it!”

Amit Ahuja: Can you share where your lyrical inspiration typically comes from, and what it’s like to bring those words to life on stage in front of an audience?

Emily: Our songs usually have a title before any of the lyrics are written. We’ll write the music first and fit the vibe of the music to match the title we came up with, or vice versa (title the song based on the inherent vibe of the music). The lyrics usually come a lot later when the song is close to fully arranged.

As far as the content of the lyrics, we get a lot of inspiration from gothic and horror films, and gothic/horror fiction of any kind. Additionally, in our self-titled album “Chateau Noir,” the first and last song on that album – Skeleton Key and Chateau Noir – are about the ‘place’ Chateau Noir that we’ve invented as a way to build a gothic world that exists inside our minds. It’s a place of beauty and decadence, but also a place of pain and isolation.

Amit Ahuja: Can you provide detailed insights into each track from your most recent album, released last year? I am also particularly interested in learning more about your latest single, 'Creatures of the Black World.' What central themes or messages do you hope to convey to listeners through these works?

Brent: Every song has a distinctive theme, but together these songs seem to represent a cohesive record.

Emily: Yeah! To continue with the last answer about lyrical content, each song is sort of made to be a part of the fictitious world that is “Chateau Noir” – or at least to show certain aspects of it. Like the song “Fatal Glance” is about paranormal love, “Born to Darkness” is about the struggle of being a vampire and living in darkness. “Bloodlet” is about societal pressures affecting your life and mental health.

Emily: Creatures of the Black World was written to describe a dystopian world where the “creatures” are a metaphor for fascism or authoritarianism that live in the cracks of society, but the main voice in the song is choosing love as a way to fight against those dark forces. So the message is really supposed to be hopeful.

https://youtu.be/KyQjVZKnZ7o?si=IPjpuyLA3TQWa8tK

Amit Ahuja: Who are your biggest musical influences?

Brent: Aside from the obvious electronic acts we both love, 80s deathrock and post-punk are huge influences on us. We have a Shadow Project poster in our studio and another of Rozz Williams in our living room.

Amit Ahuja: What non-musical inspirations shape your songs (films, books, personal experiences)?

Brent: 80’s film, particularly Horror and Action movies. John Carpenter specifically as he scores the music to his own films. All vampire films as well. Chateau Noir is the musical equivalent of Interview with the Vampire + the Terminator.

Emily: Yeah, and to add to that: Stories by Anne Rice, Stephen King, Edgar Allen Poe, illustrations by Edward Gorey, Harry Clarke, and Aubrey Beardsley, Film Noir, and films by Kenneth Anger, and film photography of all kinds. Just to name a few!

Amit Ahuja: How would you describe your sound to someone unfamiliar with goth music?

Brent: To quote What We Do in the Shadows; “Dead But Delicious.”

Emily: Lol! I second Brent.

Amit Ahuja: How do your visual and fashion choices tie into your music and message?

Brent: Aesthetic is intentional, and we lean into it where most electronic acts like us shy away from anything too dramatic or personal.

Emily: We are basically living out our fantasies with this project, and indulging ourselves in every way. So the result is quite theatrical and grandiose, but so is our music so it all is connected and interwoven.

Amit Ahuja: I'm super curious about how the production process came together. Can you share your part in making the most recent album and the song? Also, I’d love to hear about any cool techniques or methods you used to ensure the tracks turned out great.

Brent: The process of every song is always a bit experimental and different from track to track. They usually start with big drums and basslines, but everything in between is up to our discretion. We spend lots of time tinkering with synthesizers.

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear about any exciting projects, tours, or collaborations you have on the horizon! What are you looking forward to the most?

Brent: Playing as many shows as we can. I’m also excited to release an EP this year and another full-length record next year with lots of music videos to accompany them.

Emily: Yes! We have two shows in the greater LA area coming up in August and September. Plus we just did a photoshoot with a photographer and creative director named Aurelia, so we’re excited to see the result of that and show it to the world!

Photo on 35mm by Jeff Joyner

Amit Ahuja: Where do you see yourselves as a band in five years?

Brent: Making a film and scoring it.

Emily: This project has no bounds, so we’re going to let it take us where it can!

Amit Ahuja: What’s something about the day-to-day of being in a band that fans might not realize?

Emily: There is a lot of grunt work that is not always super fun, but very necessary. This can include social media posting, mixing and editing, etc. I personally edit all of our music videos and social media content, so I spend a LOT of time in the Adobe Suite editing stuff. So what fans might not realize is that the fun music writing part of the project is actually the smallest portion of the labor for an indie project.

Amit Ahuja: Emily, in addition to this creative project, you have a broader artistic background. Could you share what it means to be an interdisciplinary artist and how that perspective informs your creative process? Also, could you tell us about some projects you’ve worked on that embody this approach?

Emily: Sure! I am an interdisciplinary artist, which means that I make art across a variety of disciplines. This includes, but is not limited to, film, sculpture, painting, drawing, print-making, etc. I see all disciplines of art as unique, but also interchangeable depending on the vision. With Chateau Noir, the main “discipline” is the music, but there are also music videos, photography, etc. that are included in the greater project.

So Chateau Noir is a perfect reflection of how I work in general. For example, I’m wrapping up post-production on a short film I made called In the Light of the Afternoon, which will be debuted at a gallery in downtown LA later this year. The exhibition of the film will be "interdisciplinary," as it will include sculptural pieces and prints made for the exhibit.

Amit Ahuja: If you were given the fantastic opportunity to open for any band or go on a world tour, which bands would you choose to join on this exciting journey?

Brent: Spike Hellis.

Emily: Yes! Or any of the bands mentioned in my answer for number 9.

Amit Ahuja: What keeps you guys inspired as artists?

Brent: Each other.

Amit Ahuja: What advice would you give to young artists exploring darker, more experimental styles?

Brent: Don’t follow trends. Be authentic regardless of how strange it may seem.

Emily: You don’t need expensive and fancy equipment to get started. Just start with a used synth, or even a midi and a DAW, and see where it takes you.

Amit Ahuja: What insights or recommendations do you guys have for musicians who face rejection or experience setbacks in their careers? Specifically, how can these artists cope with disappointment and use those challenges as stepping stones for future growth?

Brent: If you get to get up and make music regularly, there isn’t much to be disappointed in. Try and focus on the positive.

Emily: Have fun, and try to cultivate a small but tight network around you. Set realistic goals and know that the numbers don’t matter. How you live your life is what matters.

Amit Ahuja: Can you both share three individuals who have positively or negatively influenced your lives, and why?

Brent: My friend Isaiah is influential to me with respect to both his creativity and his ability to seemingly live every day like it's his last. As for my musical endeavors, I would have to say my parents for always supporting me. And most importantly, I will say Emily for being the greatest source of inspiration for what Chateau Noir is.

Emily: I will say our sisters: my sister Madeleine, and Brent’s sister Megan. They are always there for us and our biggest supporters. Most of the photographs taken on our IG were taken by my sister, Madeleine. She’ll drop what she’s doing to help us with projects anytime we ask her. Brent, of course, has positively influenced my life as not only my bandmate but also my life partner. And lastly, my cat, Toby, because apart from Brent and Madeleine, Toby and I are codependent lol.

Amit Ahuja: What kinds of TV shows, movies, books, or podcasts do you both really connect with—and what is it about them that draws you in? Is it the storytelling, character development, the themes they explore, or just the overall craft?

Brent: Star Trek is the singular most important thing to come out of the Industrial Revolution. As for our music and stylistic influences, horror movies inform us the most.

Amit Ahuja: For each member, how do they define happiness in their life, and how does that connect to their vision of success?

Emily: Happiness is keeping what is important close to you. For me, being creative on a daily basis is part of that. Being able to work as an interdisciplinary artist and musician while making a living teaching art to young people makes me feel truly successful.

Brent: Doing things that keep you feeling young is a key to happiness for me. Playing shows and indulging in your passions are important examples of this for me personally.

Amit Ahuja: Do you guys have hobbies or interests outside of music that get you fired up?

Brent: I think our singular biggest influence and interest that informs our band is film.

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with humanity if you had the world’s attention for five minutes?

Brent: Live long and prosper.

Emily: Be nice to each other, and even nicer to animals.

Amit Ahuja: Thanks to Emily and Brent from Chateau Noir for sharing their story with us.

Photo by Madeleine Gross

Please explore the following links to support and follow Chateau Noir:

Chateau Noir YouTube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@ChateauNoirBand

Chateau Noir Bandcamp:

https://chateau-noir.bandcamp.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacA8ksa-oXXdtTuY258b1TvjbKf_lpibZlehD3xwKkLnJzRPaRBhSEGI6T7cQ_aem_21JMAFcum0QgwafnRnyddg

Chateau Noir Instagram Page:

https://www.instagram.com/_chateau.noir/

***Video by Chateau Noir and Photos by Madeleine Gross & Jeff Joyner, unless stated otherwise.***

An Exclusive Interview with Kasey Karlsen of Deadlands

I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to conduct a Q&A session with the talented vocalist Kasey Karlsen of Deadlands. We discussed her upbringing, musical journey, her band, hobbies, and interests. I hope you enjoy reading this.

Amit Ahuja: "I’m deeply interested in learning more about your background and the journey that has shaped your identity. Could you share where you grew up and your hometown environment? I would love to understand how your upbringing has influenced your values and worldview.

Kasey Karlsen: Absolutely! I was exposed to metal a few different ways. My dad loved rock, my brother loved guitar hero and I grew up loving the same things. I then started to get into video games like Call of Duty (Black Ops II specifically) and it sent me down the rabbit hole!

Amit Ahuja: In addition, I’d like to explore the role of your cultural heritage. How has your cultural background contributed to shaping who you are today? Have traditions, stories, or customs left a lasting impression on you? Lastly, have any significant milestones—accomplishments, challenges, or transformative experiences—been particularly meaningful in your personal growth?”

Kasey Karlsen: I didn’t really have any super cultural experiences to be honest. Although, I’m Norwegian and have learned that metal has a lot of Norwegian roots which is pretty cool. I think the most transformative experiences I’ve had really were at shows when it comes to my mindset about music.

Amit Ahuja: I’m genuinely looking forward to learning about your musical journey. Could you share a defining moment that ignited your passion for music? Perhaps it was a concert that left a lasting impression, a song that resonated deeply with you, or a pivotal experience that inspired you to begin playing an instrument.

Kasey Karlsen: Thank you!! I think the most pivotal moment I had was attending my first metal show. It was Light Up The Sky, Too Close To Touch (rest in peace), New Years Day, blessthefall and Crown the Empire. I was absolutely mind blown and it certainly altered my brain chemistry.

Amit Ahuja: What drew you to metalcore, both musically and aesthetically?

Kasey Karlsen: The contrast 100%. I loved the juxtaposition of the heavy, crazy riffing with the soaring, melodic vocals. It was unlike anything I’ve ever heard.

Amit Ahuja: Which bands or albums had the most significant impact on your sound inside and outside of metalcore?

Kasey Karlsen: Motionless In White - Scoring The End Of The World is my favorite album of all time, Ice Nine Kills - The Silver Scream, Nightmare by Avenged Sevenfold, any Paramore and Demi Lovato. Those shaped my taste like crazy.

Amit Ahuja: Who have been some of your most significant male and female musical influences, and how have they shaped your sound or approach as an artist?”

Kasey Karlsen: Hayley Williams, Demi Lovato, Chris Motionless, Billie Eilish and Spencer Charnas I think had the biggest influence on me so far. I love the power so much. Billie got my attention with her first album, and I love how different and almost eerie it is. 


How has your experience navigating the metalcore scene been shaped by your perspective as a woman, and what unique challenges or opportunities has that brought to your journey as an artist?

Kasey Karlsen: The treatment is definitely different. I feel like in some ways I had an advantage, where there weren’t a lot of women doing what I was doing, but also that opened the floor to people who didn’t like me because I was a women. I still get comments that women shouldn’t scream, or “I just don’t like female vocalists” and I think it’s insane. But I do think the more females that enter this vocalist role, the more acceptance we’ll get.

Amit Ahuja: What does it feel like to be the frontwoman of your band, and how has that role shaped your experience as an artist?”

Kasey Karlsen: It can be a lot of pressure sometimes, especially if I’m not feeling well, but ultimately I feel so powerful. To be able to connect with fans on such a deep level is so sentimental and surreal. I feel like you can connect with people on a different level as a front person, coming from someone in the audience too.

Amit Ahuja: What unique qualities set you apart as a remarkable singer?

Kasey Karlsen: Thank you!! To be quite honest I don’t even think my singing is the best haha. I think my power is definitely unique, maybe my vibrato a bit, but the screams are absolutely where I shine. I also think the writing alone is a huge portion of my talent.

Amit Ahuja: “I’m really intrigued by the story of Deadlands. Can you take us back to the beginning—how did the band first come together? What were the early conversations or moments that sparked the idea of forming a band? I’m also curious about the name itself—‘Deadlands’ is evocative and mysterious. What’s the meaning behind it, and how does it connect to your identity or vision as a group? Was there a particular theme, experience, or philosophy that inspired both the name and the formation of the band?”

Kasey Karlsen: CJ and I met in another band. It was actually pop punk. We quickly realized that wasn’t our vibe. We quit the band, and CJ was producing for his solo project (now known as Arey) so he offered to record some covers with me. We recorded them, posted them, and they were doing crazy well. CJ then offered to sell me his laptop with Logic Pro and all of his plugins on it for $700 and I took it. He gave me a crash course and I started recording on my own. Around this time is when we decided to make a band, and the first name that came out of CJ’s mouth was Deadlands. We went with it and the rest is history. I wish there was some cool meaning but ultimately there is not!

Amit Ahuja: Can you walk us through the sources of your lyrical inspiration—whether personal experiences, stories you've heard, or abstract ideas—and how those influences shape your songwriting process? What does it feel like to transform those deeply personal or creative expressions into a live performance, and how do you connect with the audience through your words on stage?”

Kasey Karlsen: In anything I write, it has to have a personal touch, or it doesn’t feel genuine. This last EP was a combination of The Seven Deadly Sins and ultimately the weakest and ugliest parts of me. The transformation from writing to stage is so empowering. To be accepted and understood when writing about such heavy topics is cathartic. We all have our weak points but actively looking them in the face and searching for change within yourself is such a strong move.

Amit Ahuja: Could you share detailed insights into the creative process, themes, and inspirations behind the tracks Limbo, Kundalini, and House of Cards?”

Kasey Karlsen: Absolutely. House Of Cards was vey personal to me. It felt like the first piece I was proud of. It was meant to be a poker-themed song, but I don’t know crap about poker! Essentially, I wrote about all the people who’ve lied to me and pretended to have my best interest at heart. Once I finally got tired of it I flipped out and cut them off. Then, one day I got a lightbulb moment to change the theming to the seven deadly sins, and that’s what we did. House of Cards happened to fit that mold so perfectly. Villain was the first intentional deadly sin. I’m a very prideful person (we’re working on it) and I looked inward for things to say. Essentially this is the villain arc that bites back, where revenge turns you into the person you never want to be.

https://youtu.be/3MA0gSSRb0U?si=W6H2rXaDBU3QPH7k

Kasey Karlsen: Kundalini was our first ever collaboration and we worked with the amazing girls in The Pretty Wild. I don’t have enough words to describe how incredible they are. We all decided we should hit on envy and play on the fake “girl’s girl” archetype. Jealousy is hate and love at the same time, and we really tried to pull lots of symbolism. We also combined spiritual references because of TPW, which I think was the cherry on top of the song. My favorite envy quote is this: “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones…”

https://youtu.be/jaskiDsbKkw?si=FntivKjmOS0zlz9c

Kasey Karlsen: Limbo was pretty tricky. I am not a sexual person really, (more power to those who are) so I wanted to write differently about lust. The bad parts. The painful parts, and so I wrote about falling in love with someone who only lusts over you, and it stings. Essentially, we took the vampire symbolism, and used it to say the luster is not invincible, and what comes around goes around.

https://youtu.be/e-cOlBe75ow?si=POiv97iH00Kt48hB

Amit Ahuja: Has a message or moment with a fan made you truly realize your music's deeper emotional or personal impact beyond just entertainment?

Kasey Karlsen: I’ve had people cry in my arms because they say that our music saved their life. I’ve had people get tattoos for the same reason and it’s absolutely incredible. It’s such a crazy feeling, especially since I’m a fan too. It warms my heart and reminds me that this is why I do this, even when it gets tough.

Amit Ahuja: Touring for two months straight can be physically and mentally demanding, especially with performances almost every night. How do you sustain energy, care for your voice and body, and stay mentally grounded throughout such an intense schedule? Are there specific routines, rituals, or support systems that help you stay consistent and connected to the music during those stretches?”

Kasey Karlsen: I avoid a lot of foods, I try to stay active, and I try to sleep as much as possible, and vocal rest is essential. It’s definitely difficult, but consistency is key in any form. Luckily, I also travel with my boyfriend for Deadlands so that certainly helps!

Amit Ahuja: How do you maintain vocal endurance and physical energy during such aggressive performances?

Kasey Karlsen: Vocal rest, proper warm-ups, good breath support and training before tour are essential! I’m still trying to master it all.

Amit Ahuja: What’s something about the day-to-day of being in a band that fans might not realize?

Kasey Karlsen: You don’t just walk up on stage to play the show. Prepping is important, load-in is a pain sometimes, and merch really is where the bands survive. Expenses are INSANE on tour so definitely buy merch when you can! Everything helps!

Amit Ahuja: If you were given the fantastic opportunity to open for any band or go on a world tour, which bands would you choose to join on this exciting journey?

Kasey Karlsen: Motionless In White, Make Them Suffer, Spiritbox. I would be deceased.

Amit Ahuja: "What has your experience been like as a female vocalist in the metal scene, and how has it shaped your journey as an artist?”

Kasey Karlsen: People can suck, but ultimately I think I’ve had it pretty good. Of course I’ll get scrutiny just being a woman, but overall I think the ceiling has at least cracked. I feel like I am more appreciative of where I am, because I’ve seen and heard so many bad things happen to people in my position.

Amit Ahuja: What keeps you inspired as an artist?

Kasey Karlsen: The fans. It’s always the fans. Writing, surpassing personal goals, all of it means even more when the fans are cheering you on.

Amit Ahuja: What insights or recommendations do you have for musicians who face rejection or experience setbacks in their careers? Specifically, how can these artists cope with disappointment and use those challenges as stepping stones for future growth?

Kasey Karlsen: Everyone faces rejection at some point. Success isn’t always linear. There’s ups and downs all the time. Every single artist you know has failed at some point. The difference is they kept going, maybe they had a rebrand, but they never gave up on their dreams.

Amit Ahuja: Is making music more of a release, a discovery, or a confrontation for you?

Kasey Karlsen: I feel like it’s a release of emotions built up over time. It is the best feeling to get new songs out on stage.

Amit Ahuja: Is there a message you hope fans walk away with after listening to your music, or do you prefer to leave it open to interpretation?

Kasey Karlsen: I just hope they enjoy it, but also find themselves within the song. See if there are any positive changes you can make within yourself and the world.

Amit Ahuja: What’s your favorite song to play live and why? Do you prefer playing small, intimate venues or big festivals?

Kasey Karlsen: Big festivals because for some reason I don’t get nervous! It’s also the adrenaline and seeing how wild the crowd gets. As much as I love intimate venues, the festival peeps are specifically there to throw down.

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear about any exciting projects, tours, or collaborations you have on the horizon! What are you looking forward to the most?

Kasey Karlsen: Oh man. There’s so many people I would want to work with. We’re about to go on tour with Scene Queen and girli which we are STOKED about. Some dream collaborations would be to work with Make Them Suffer, Spiritbox, and a wildcard would be Billie Eilish.

Amit Ahuja: Can you share three individuals who have positively or negatively influenced your lives, and why?

Kasey Karlsen: Nita Strauss and Josh Villalta have made such an impact on my life and music career. I have learned everything from them and they are incredible. I am so appreciative of everything they’ve done for me. My bandmate CJ has also taught me so much in just the past year alone, not just about music, but friendship and connection.

Amit Ahuja: What kinds of TV shows, movies, books, or podcasts do you connect with—and what is it about them that draws you in? Is it the storytelling, character development, the themes they explore, or just the overall craft?

Kasey Karlsen: The Hunger Games is such a powerful series for me. It was the first book series I really got hooked on. The dystopian themes, the really crazy parallels between those books and today, and the character development and descriptions were so incredible to me. I also love Dexter, The Walking Dead, and a lot of horror stuff!

Amit Ahuja: How do they define happiness in your life, and how does that connect to your vision of success?

Kasey Karlsen: Honestly I’m still trying to figure that one out. Health is a big thing, and just making sure I’m surrounded by people I love is success to me. This includes the fans too!

Amit Ahuja: Do you have hobbies or interests outside of music that get you fired up?”

Kasey Karlsen: I LOVE video games. I may have an unhealthy addiction to Fortnite skins…

Amit Ahuja: Let's talk about how you've dealt with mental health struggles. What strategies, coping tricks, or support systems have helped you? Also, what advice or insights would you want to share with others your age facing similar challenges?

Kasey Karlsen: The gym has been a life saver for me honestly. Especially on tour, it gives me a sense of normalcy and makes me feel really good about myself. Running is also something I love to do on tour and it’s very therapeutic for some reason. Being active has been so important for battling my depression and anxiety. It allows me to clear my head and I absolutely urge people to do the same.

Amit Ahuja: What message would you share with humanity if you had the world’s attention for five minutes?

Kasey Karlsen: If I had the world’s attention for five minutes, I would pretty much preach to be a better version of yourself every day. This is what I constantly try to do internally and externally. Mentally and physically if you are trying to be the best version of you every single day, practicing kindness and discipline, you can do anything.

Amit Ahuja: We sincerely appreciate Kasey Karlsen for sharing your story with us.

Kindly explore the following links to support and follow Kasey Karlsen of Deadlands:

Deadlands Website:

https://deadlandsband.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacdCG5EWyLgXQTI8IZyDMgM5LeyaRCNeQo0HSOi7jgcdp5bJU_4S66-WDDnGw_aem_eSUFQFZyC2cX-PpBhRCadA

Kasey Karlsen Linktree:

https://linktr.ee/kaseykarlsen?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaeSoruB6KMszmQZS2-xjjmfJJhOJP9MJf-3-cpLFKXHtiw0L5iHJp0jvTpl-g_aem_-zD3dIViMwzXq8fjA79i1w

*** Video & Photos are by Kasey Karlsen of Deadlands, unless stated otherwise. ***