A Chat with Kristian Phillip Valentino (21.11.24)
Known for his emotional, tender and heartfelt music, singer-songwriter Kristian Phillip Valentino is a country/folk music force of nature hypnotising listeners across the globe. We came across the US-based artist in 2021 with ‘Blue Skies‘, and he has continued to win our hearts with each single since (and before to be honest). Today Valentino chats with us about his new EP The Sun Is Setting, future plans and much more.
OSR: The Sun Is Setting is a compelling title. What inspired the theme for this EP, and how does it reflect your personal journey or artistic vision?
Valentino: Thank you so much! This project is a darker sound/direction than previous releases. I found myself facing personal demons that I’ve been experiencing for a long time now. After finding some space for healing, therapy and self love these 4 songs came out of that place. The title comes from some of the lyrics in the song, ‘Evil of this World’.
OSR: Can you walk us through the creative process behind this EP? Did you face any unexpected challenges or breakthroughs?
Valentino: The creative journey for this record was not what I expected it to be, honestly. This album was originally a 12 song LP that detailed a dark story about a family that endured a lot of trauma and betrayal. My brother and I came up with a concept for what was originally going to be a graphic novel but it later became an album. Unfortunately, after sharing the LP with some friends and peers I kept getting back the same response, “This is too dark” or “The story is hard to follow unless you are actively listening” and “How did you come up with this, is it real?”, and from that reaction I decided to ask them what songs did resonate and these 4 kept coming up. So I scrapped the 12 song LP concept record and went with these songs instead.
OSR: Each track on The Sun Is Setting feels deeply emotional. Is there a particular song that resonates most with you, and why?
Valentino: ‘Still Your Boy’ is a deeply personal exploration of a complex father-son relationship. My dad died 13 years ago before we had a chance to restore our broken relationship, I really feel like it took me 13 years to finally have the courage to write this song. I hope it inspires those in strained familial relationships to learn how to forgive and find restoration.
OSR: How does The Sun Is Setting differ from your previous works? Are there any new styles or influences you explored here?
Valentino: For many years, this project mostly dove into love/breakup songs. Now I’m finding my voice by truly vulnerable writing and a more direct, alt-country sound that I’ve been searching for. Most of my past records had a lot of production and a more indie folk/pop sound but these stripped down, acoustic yearning records are what I’m craving at this time. I finally made a record that was recorded live after 1 or 2 takes.
OSR: The imagery of a setting sun can evoke endings, transitions, or even new beginnings. What message do you hope listeners take away from this EP?
Valentino: I hope you find some light, hope and healing despite the dark days ahead, friend.
OSR: How has your journey as an artist influenced the stories and themes you chose to explore in this EP?
Valentino: I’m learning that being vulnerable and naked in your writing is the key.
OSR: As a musician, what do you hope The Sun Is Setting achieves for your audience? How do you want it to make them feel?
Valentino: Grab the tissues because this one is a punch to the gut! Lately my live shows have been people being deeply affected emotionally and tearing up or even walking out to gain their composure again. After the set is over I typically get flooded by people sharing very personal stories and how my music/stories affected them, which I’m deeply humbled by.
OSR: Looking ahead, what’s next for you after this EP? Are there any upcoming projects, performances, or collaborations you’re excited about?
Valentino: Yes I am. I already have the songs ready for the next EP and I’m hoping to head to the studio next fall 2025. Also, I’m working on a spring/summer tour for the Southeast.
Many thanks to Kristian Phillip Valentino for speaking with us. Find out more about Kristian Phillip Valentino on his official website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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