A Chat with Fleanger (19.10.23)
Fusing a danceable electronic flair with a deep-seated sense of raw grit, musician Fleanger shares a soothing sound in bold beats. We speak with the Germany-based artist about his new single ‘Glockenspiel’, creative processes, learning languages and much more!
OSR: What drew you to music? Why did you decide to become a musician?
Fleanger: My journey in the world of music serves as a testament to the limitless power of this art form as a conduit for self-expression and profound human connection. From the very core of my being, I harbour an innate passion for the exquisite fusion of sound and emotion, an ardour that has driven my emergence as a compelling and dynamic force within the electronic music scene. My musical odyssey has left an indelible mark through groundbreaking compositions and the art of storytelling, allowing me to craft a unique narrative through sound that resonates deeply with a global audience.
Drawing inspiration from the intricate depths of the “Flanger” music production effect, I intricately intertwined this audio manipulation technique with my electronic creations. By adding an ethereal ‘E’ to my moniker, I encapsulate the very essence of my sonic journey – a harmonious blend of technical mastery and artistic expression that transcends the boundaries of musical genres and establishes an unbreakable connection with listeners worldwide.
OSR: You recently released your single ‘Glockenspiel’. What can you tell us about it?
Fleanger: We recently released our single ‘Glockenspiel’ and it’s the culmination of an incredible seven-year-long creative journey. This collaboration with Asi, a dynamic force known for embracing the dancefloor spirit, has been highly anticipated. We both had a deep desire to work together and it was a constant topic in our conversations. However, our individual career commitments often took precedence, making it challenging to embark on our coveted joint project.
The turning point in our partnership came when I decided to take a vacation to Israel, and it provided the perfect backdrop for our artistic journey to finally begin. ‘Glockenspiel’ is the result of this patient and explorative approach, along with a shared vision that has driven our unique endeavour. The single showcases the fusion of my intricate melodies and deep emotional touch with Asi’s electrifying dancefloor energy. We’re thrilled to share the outcome of this long-cherished collaboration with the world.
OSR: What do you hope people take from ‘Glockenspiel’?
Fleanger: What we hope people take from ‘Glockenspiel’ extends beyond the music itself. This single represents a bold venture into uncharted artistic territories for both Asi and me. It’s a testament to the power of shared dreams and unwavering determination. We want listeners to see it as more than just the result of two artists working in tandem; it’s a symbol of our creative partnership, the realisation of a long-held vision, and a harmonious blend of our contrasting musical worlds.
Through ‘Glockenspiel,’ we aim to inspire others to pursue their creative aspirations, collaborate fearlessly, and embrace the beauty of merging diverse artistic styles. We want our music to resonate with people on a deep emotional level, encouraging them to explore their own creative boundaries and celebrate the magic that happens when two distinct musical forces come together in harmony.
OSR: What is your creative process?
Fleanger: My creative process is a carefully orchestrated yet organic journey that begins with me seeking a tranquil moment at the piano, accompanied by a cup of coffee and a glass of cold water with ice. This environment provides the ideal setting for my creative flow. During this initial phase, I let my mind roam freely, allowing the melodies that have either surfaced during the stillness of the night or spontaneously emerged in the present moment to take centre stage. It’s a process of capturing these fleeting yet precious musical ideas, much like catching fireflies in a jar.
As I collect and document these melodies, I move on to the subsequent stage of my creative process. Here, I introduce chords and bass to the mix. This deliberate step serves a dual purpose: it provides a structural framework and infuses depth into the compositions. With this musical architecture in place, the raw, ephemeral melodies take on a more substantial form, evolving into fully-fledged musical pieces.
In essence, my creative process is a harmonious blend of free-form inspiration and the intentional incorporation of harmonious elements. It is a delicate dance between spontaneity and composition. Through this method, I bring to life the music that resonates with my soul and, hopefully, touches the hearts of those who listen.
OSR: What does music mean to you?
Fleanger: Music holds a profound and multifaceted significance in my life. It is, above all, my greatest love, representing an unwavering passion and deep connection that transcends words. This love fuels my creative spirit and provides a source of boundless inspiration.
In addition to being a form of love, music is also my strongest weapon. It serves as a powerful means of self-expression, enabling me to convey emotions, thoughts, and experiences that might be challenging to articulate otherwise. Music allows me to communicate and connect with others on a profound level, making it a formidable tool in my artistic arsenal.
Furthermore, music is my greatest hope. It offers solace, healing, and a sense of optimism in the face of life’s challenges. It has the remarkable ability to uplift, inspire, and bring comfort in times of adversity. Music serves as a beacon of hope that guides me through life’s twists and turns.
In summary, music is not just a form of artistic expression for me; it’s a love that enriches my life, a powerful means of communication, and a source of hope and strength. It is a deeply ingrained and vital part of my existence.
OSR: If you could change one thing about ‘Glockenspiel’, what would it be and why that thing?
Fleanger: Regarding ‘Glockenspiel’, I must admit that I find it challenging to identify a specific element I would want to change. Each track I create is like a cherished child to me, and I hold them all in high regard. It’s not that I can’t see room for improvement or potential changes; rather, it’s the emotional attachment and the connection I have with each piece of music that makes it difficult for me to single out something to alter.
Every element within ‘Glockenspiel’, from the melodies to the chords and bass, has its place and significance within the composition. I’ve poured my heart and soul into it, and any adjustment might disrupt the delicate balance I’ve worked to achieve. Therefore, while there may be areas for refinement in ‘Glockenspiel’ as with any piece of art, I believe that the track, as it stands, represents the truest expression of my creative vision at the time of its creation.
OSR: Random questions: where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Fleanger: In a decade, my vision for the future is both deeply personal and creatively fulfilling. I envision a life filled with love and music, centred in the vibrant city of Berlin. I see myself sharing this journey with a partner who holds a special place in my heart, and together we’ve created a loving and nurturing environment for our little Fleanger, our precious addition to the family.
Our daily life unfolds in an apartment, complete with a beautiful balcony that overlooks the bustling cityscape, where we can savour moments of tranquillity amid the urban energy. But it’s not just the view that makes our home special; it’s the basement studio that serves as the heart of our creative world. It’s here where melodies are born, emotions are translated into music, and where we pour our hearts into our art, 24 hours a day.
In this vision, we’ve not only found a way to make music our livelihood but also a constant companion, a way of life. It’s a dream where every passing moment is an opportunity to create, connect, and bring our artistic visions to life. This future represents the fusion of personal happiness and creative fulfilment, a harmonious blend of love, family, and music that I eagerly anticipate in the years to come.
OSR: Imagine you can instantly learn any language, which would it be?
Fleanger: If I had the remarkable ability to instantly learn any language, I believe I would start with German. It’s a language that I perceive as valuable, particularly given my vision of living and creating music in Berlin. Mastering German would not only enhance my everyday life and interactions but also deepen my connection to the local culture and music scene. It’s a logical starting point for me, and once I feel confident and comfortable with German, I would then consider expanding my linguistic horizons to embrace even more languages, opening up new avenues for creative expression and connection with people from diverse backgrounds.
OSR: What makes you unique as an artist?
Fleanger: What sets me apart as an artist is the emotion and depth that I infuse into electronic music. While electronic music is often associated with energetic beats and danceable rhythms, I’ve made it my mission to bring a profound emotional dimension to the genre. My compositions are not merely a collection of sounds; they are a journey into the depths of human emotions, a narrative told through melodies and harmonies.
In a genre that can sometimes prioritise the technical and the synthetic, I place a strong emphasis on the human element, channelling my personal experiences, thoughts, and feelings into my music. This authenticity and vulnerability set me apart and allowed me to create music that resonates on a profound level with listeners. My unique approach to electronic music transforms it into a vehicle for emotional expression and connection, making it a distinctive and memorable experience for those who engage with my work.
OSR: What can we expect from Fleanger in the future?
Fleanger: In the future, you can expect a dynamic and diverse musical journey from Fleanger. My path is paved with exciting prospects, including numerous collaborations with exceptionally talented artists from across the globe. These partnerships will continue to enrich and expand the sonic palette of my music, offering fresh perspectives and unique fusions of styles.
I will also delve into remixes for well-known artists in the industry, showcasing my ability to reinterpret and add my distinct touch to established tracks. This not only reflects my passion for music but also my commitment to connecting with audiences on a broader scale. Furthermore, my dedication to the world of hip-hop production will remain a significant focus. This genre presents endless opportunities for creative expression, and I’m eager to explore new frontiers within it. As an artist who is always evolving, you can anticipate a diverse and ever-evolving body of work that reflects my continuous growth, innovation, and unwavering love for music.
OSR: Do you have a message for our readers?
Fleanger: To all the musicians who may find themselves entangled in a challenging crossroads in their lives and are contemplating a change in direction, I have a heartfelt message to share: Don’t give up on your true self and your artistic vision. It’s crucial to stay authentic and unwavering in your pursuit of what truly resonates with your heart and soul. While offers and opportunities may come your way, it’s essential not to compromise your creative integrity or authenticity, even if it means turning down potentially lucrative deals.
Your unique voice and artistic vision are your most precious assets. The path of a musician can be demanding, but it’s also deeply rewarding when you stay true to your passion and principles. Remember that your music is an extension of your identity, and it’s in staying authentic that you create work that genuinely connects with others on a profound level. So, my message to you is to embrace your true self, remain steadfast in your artistic journey, and continue creating music that reflects your genuine spirit.
Many thanks to Fleanger for speaking with us! For more from Fleanger, check out his Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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