Welcome to the RGM virtual lounge mate, take a seat…
What made you decide to become a soloist?
Basically, I thought what job would grant me a fortune, all the ways led to becoming a musician 🙂
But I’m not a good liar, so I’ll just say that it came up naturally, when Jonathan Maimon, the previous producer of MARBL asked me to write an album, he produced it, and the next thing I remember is embarking on MARBL’s first tour in the UK.
Since then MARBL was reborn at Maor Shvartzberg’s studio, and being well taken care by all my co-band members Nir Mardan, Yoni Deutch, Yuval Eisenberg and Amitay Levin.
MARBL is my baby, my essence, and i’m in love with each aspect of it.
Introduce us all to the members and your musical history?
Nir Mardan is MARBL’s talented drummer, we met a few years ago at MARBL’s concert, when he covered for the previous drummer who couldn’t show up.
We both knew it was just a matter of time until we will bond together.
Yoni Deutch is Nir’s dear friend, Nir talked fondly of him, so I called and asked him if he’d like to join us as a bass player. He said yes and I felt immediately that he’s a part of the family. He’s a MARBLer for 4 years now.
I used to play the keyboard, until November 2019, when we were invited to play at a festival in Jerusalem, and I wanted to perform as a singer only and see how it feels like not hiding behind the piano (which I like and miss a lot sometimes). He was such a good addition to the band, so we all decided to stick together, and Amitay Levin is the new guitarist, he is such a talented guitarist, singer and producer, and also has a great sense of humor. Maor Shwartzberg is a soul friend of mine, I think that it is such a gift to have him as a producer, I love his musical taste and love our working process. Tomer Levi is one of my best friends and the most talented director, photographer, editor and has brilliant mind. He’s the heart and hands behind all of MARBL’s videos. I get so emotional and excited when he tells me how he visualizing my music, and he always does it perfectly. They all are like family to me.
It’s been a bit of a wild last year, how have you guys managed to pass time and stay sane during lockdown?
We managed to perform some rehearsals, though many were canceled. I wrote many songs, and when Maor and I could, we met and cooked them.
If I look back, I can say that in spite of the tough year, and the almost impossible terms, it still definitely was one very fertile year.
How positive are you feeling now we are in 2021?
I am hopeful, and hope that all of us (and you) will keep safe and will be able to enjoy good music, and all the other stuff we missed so much, I can’t wait be on a stage.
How has 2020 effected your mental health?
At first, I was anxious and heartbroken. Moreover, I went through a breakup, and found myself alone in my flat, most of the time, getting used to the mad new world.
It took me a while, but soon enough I decided to make the most out of it.
I learned to play the guitar, started practicing yoga and meditation, I wrote a lot of new songs, and reconnected to myself.
I can say now, that I’m a new version of myself, a one I love more than the previous versions.
What advise would you give other artists starting out?
Get out of your comfort zone. This is where the magic begins.
Whats one question you’re sick of being asked when interviewed?
Where is the “E”?
What support is out there for new artists in tel Aviv ?
From time to time, when possible, there are venues offered for rehearsing and recording online shows.
Who is inspiring you at the minute?
Lately I listen to tons of music, and I am being influenced by so many beautiful artists that it’s not fair to pick one.
What useless talent do you have/ party trick?
I break wine glasses. (No training, I’m a natural).
What was the most fun you have had on stage?
Festivals are amazing, but also concerts that I recognize familiar faces in the audience.
Franckly it’s been so long that it’s hard to recall. Ask me again in a few month and I promise to come up with a good answer, maybe on stage.
What was the worst experience on stage?
Lets say it included a spider on my keyboard, a leap, and I can’t remember the rest of it. (Yeah, I’m arachnophobic).
* The worst for me might be the best for those who watched the scene.
If you could play any music festival which would it be?
Woodstock.
But in absence of a time machine – Glastonbury, Primavera, Coachella… I’d take every good vibe festival.
Best gig you’ve been to that you weren’t playing?
Radiohead, Paul Simon, Elton John, Do I have to pick one?
Who would you like to work with on the circuit right now?
Sufjan Stevens.
Right now, whats pissing you of the most? (Cant say the virus 🙂
Why wasting energy on that? I am grateful for all the things I’m lucky to have instead. 🙂
Whats your favourite song to play live and why?
Depends on my mood, and the show’s vibes. I LOVE to perform Time Takes Time, The Mechanism Of All Temporary Things, and By You (To be released on the next EP).
I hear you have a new single brewing, what can you tell us about it?
I am really excited, since all the EP’s songs are brand new and they feel fresh to me, and another reason is that they all were written on my guitar, and it’s new to me, I’m used to make love to my piano. I finally had a chance to explore the guitar and it brought new life to my songwriting. Can’t wait to share it with you.
How was the recording process given the various restrictions the UK has been under of late?
We were remote-working, and also took the chance to meet at the studio when we had a chance. It was challenging and nothing like we knew but creativity is a part of the job 🙂
What are your plans for the year ahead?
Keep writing songs, and letting them write me. Release the three singles, and the EP to be followed.
Hopefully to get back on stage as soon as possible, and tour.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the world?
I would like to wish us all a healthy year, with good energy, good music and love.