Local music is booming right now in the Fraser Valley. In Chilliwack, local artist Rain August has just released his album titled Cinderbridge. He also recently released a music video on YouTube for his song “Veins” on Sept. 8. This video built up anticipation for the album, which was released on Sept. 19. You can catch any of his future shows on his Facebook page under Rain August.
What is the general theme of this album? Is there a message in it that people need to hear, or is it all open to interpretation?
So, I embed hints of paranormal and introverted exploration, romance, love, and hate with life, some murder. Other than that, it’s certainly open to interpretations. The theme is based on a bridge I used to walk across that was known for suicide. It had been lit on fire in the late ‘90s. “Cinderbridge” is what we called it. It was on my reserve. I used to take that bridge to do a ceremony with my lover at the time. So, in general, [it’s a] dangerous walk across an already ashened life. The bridge to happiness is always full of [trials and plots] to bring you down. It’s a matter of getting across it to the other side… or making your mark by starting fires.
Who are your inspirations instrumentally and lyrically?
Radiohead, some other stranger bands, Patrick Watson, Jack Garratt, and others. As well as all you who wait and listen to me.
Any Half Moon Run? I kind of hear it!
No, but I used to listen to them when I was playing with The Loose Ends. So, I guess they could be an influence.
What is your writing process?
My writing process goes like this: I get a vibe (depression or excitement) then usually wake up from a dream and write in the middle of the night. Like I said, I just get a vibe. Death is a huge part of it all. I kind of channel energy and then create. Lyrics come first and the music I write out comes after. Then it’s all done.
How long have you been playing and writing for?
Well, I started on bass and played reggae and hip-hop for six years, and started writing and singing and all that around 17-18. So, seven years of writing, but it’s off and on.
How was recording the album?
Recording was long and slow although writing [some of the] songs only took me minutes.
What was your favourite song to record and why?
My favourite song would be “Empty.” It was just a lot of fun and held a lot of personal meaning when it comes to self-expression. The one that helped me sing the demons to sleep sort of deal — ease my mind. It’s also a lot of fun to play that one live.
Can you explain the album cover?
The cover has me lying on a small bridge with the sun covering half of my face. Melancholy is the theme I’m going for there. Also, it was a photo snapped after a long and exhausting day of filming.
Are you going on tour with this new album release?
It depends on whether I feel my current group and I are ready for that, but we would love to play local for now until I sort some management stuff out.
Where can we get access to this album?
It will be on most major platforms: Apple Music, Spotify, and Google Play Music.
