Garrett Kato’s new album Hemispheres is out now! We chat to the musician about the release and more.
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Singer, songwriter and producer Garrett Kato released his new record Hemispheres earlier this month. Made up of the tracks from his previous two EP's n. hemisphere and s. hemisphere, the body of work includes two new songs with a acoustic renditions of a handful of tracks.
Born in Canada, the musician relocated to Australia ten years ago, with his new body of work serving as a documentation of his time spent on opposite sides of the world. The record explores the move and his growing success as a musician, set atop soft melodies and evocative lyricism.
Hemispheres is out now! Read our full interview with Garrett Kato below.
Tell us a bit about how you began your musical journey…
I found my uncles guitar in his basement and asked if I could play it for a few weeks. He said I could keep it and the journey began.
You’ve just released your new record Hemispheres, can you tell us a bit about the album and why it’s called Hemispheres?
I was born and raised in western Canada and ten years ago I moved Australia. It’s not 100% a concept record, but the themes are very much influenced by that life changing decision.
You explore a varied amount of themes within this release, can you tell us a bit about the importance of exploring these themes?
I just wanted to not have any rules or restrictions in my creative process of writing and recording. It was a very liberating experience.
Could you tell us a bit about your creative process when writing and recording songs?
I usually write, record, and mix all my tracks. Most of the time I work on one song at a time, I hate leaving things unfinished so the process is more like how painter would work probably than recording a traditional record.
Hemispheres infuses threads of blues, jazz and soul within an indie rock soundscape. How did you arrive at the genre-bending sonic sounds present?
My musical taste varies so much so I think I just get bored easy and like to try different sounds and styles.
On the track Breathe It In, you join forces with Aussie songstress Julia Stone. How did this collaboration come to fruition and what was it like working together?
Loved working with her, she’s amazing. Her manager introduced us and we hit it off and wrote for a few days at my little studio.
How do you feel your music speaks to listeners and what messages do you hope they take away from the record?
I hope they find their own narrative to attach to the songs and see them through their own eyes. Maybe someone can find some peace or clarity listening, that would be the best.
Your music inspires people, what inspires you?
Nature and the people closest to me I guess your perspective is defended by your experiences.
Australia has a diverse and vibrant music scene, who are some of your favourite Aussie acts and why?
I love Gordi and Middle Kids. I’ve also been getting into this guy Kyle Lionhart.
What has been the most challenging part about creating music during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Probably not being able to play live. Playing live is such a vital way to connect with your audience and it gives your hard work purpose. Without it, it can feel like you're just talking to yourself on social media.
RAPID FIRE
Biggest influences?
Paul and John
Dream collaboration?
Noah Jones
Album that has had the most impact on you?
Nebraska - Bruce Springsteen
How do you define your musical style in 3 words?
Sad, Japanese, Man
If you could create the soundtrack for any film, which one would it be?
Into The Wild
The best/most memorable show you’ve ever performed?
Opening for Damien Rice at the Tivoli
Album you would listen to on repeat on a road trip?
Punisher Phoebe Bridgers
If you were a Spice Girl, what would your spice nickname be?
Half Asian Spice
If you could support any artist on tour, who would it be?
Bob Dylan
An artist you think has had the most influence on the music industry.
Tones and I
The moment you knew you wanted to be a musician?
Still not sure.