We spoke with Amaya (Maud the Moth) and Scott (Ashenspire) about their debut album, Songs of Abundance, Psalms of Grief, with trio healthyliving.
Hi guys, how are you?
Just taking it one day at a time, thanks!
A name like healthyliving sounds dangerous in this day and age, where does it come from?
We wanted this band to be freeing and rewarding for us, very aware of how hostile any DIY endeavour is. We are all good friends and we had done so much music together before starting this band that we wanted to pick a name that would reflect this albeit with a topping of cynicism.
We initially went for Life Coach but that band name was taken so we had to settle for the second best option. Quite telling in itself really!
“Spend as much time as possible doing things you love.”
How did you come together for healthyliving?
We have been friends for years and had played together in a variety of other bands/projects, and we all have similar taste in all things miserable. So, it seemed inevitable that we would eventually have a band together!
What can you tell me about your debut, Songs of Abundance, Psalms of Grief?
Scott: It is about committing to an initial idea and never deviating. Trusting instincts; Less is more; Yes or No. It is boundless within boundaries. It is communication; It is a response. It is about jumping off a cliff and hoping that this time you have a little plane that allows you to fly rather than crashing into the ground.
The title sounds pseudo-religious, is the title more than a reference?
Amaya: The title is a slightly modified quote from a book I was reading last year and which resonated with the musical world that these songs evoked in me: Blue Hour by Carolyn Forché. It is a beautiful yet harrowing collection of poems.
There is no religious intent in the title. Psalm is meant to contrast with song in a musical/literary sense: while songs are associated with celebration and dance, psalms traditionally have a more narrative, introspective and meditative flavour.
“There is no religious intent in the title.”
What piece of advice would you give to promote living a healthy life?
Amaya: Open communication and not shying away from conflict.
Scott: Spend as much time as possible doing things you love.
Songs of Abundance, Psalms of Grief, healthylivings’ debut, is out April 7th
