In Conversation With #167 - Salt Ashes
London-based dark pop and electronic artist Salt Ashes (aka Veiga Sanchez) has just release her sophomore album, ‘Killing My Mind’ via Radikal Records.An album that explores all of the relationships in her life, including hers with the patriarchy, in 'Killing My Mind', Salt Ashes crafts a fierce combination of slick, yet gritty pop; carrying hard-hitting messages that both challenge and empower in equal measure.
She took a moment to talk to us about how the album came together.
Hey there Salt Ashes, how are you? So your album is out now - how does it feel to have it out there in the world?
Pretty incredible but I also feel quite vulnerable. This album is so personal to me about my life over the past few years so it feels very exposing now that everyone has a key to it all.
It is titled ‘Killing My Name’ - does that have a certain meaning behind it?
The reason why I called it “Killing My Mind” is because I felt that during the writing process I was constantly giving myself a hard time for one reason or another… Over analysing as well and being my own worst enemy. I didn’t realise it in the moment but could see it clearly once I’d dissipated the fog.
Where was it recorded? Any behind the scenes stories from the creative process you are happy to share with us?
It was recorded at my producer's studio in Deptford. We spent a long time together in that studio and at times I think we were pretty delirious. Lots of face planting the floor and losing the will at times.
What are the key themes and influences on the album?
This is a collection of songs that cover a lot of shit that happened in the last few years within different relationships I had. From the relationship with myself to the relationship with the patriarchy and friends. Sonically our influences were some of our favourite 80’s bands like Fleetwood Mac and The Knife. We wanted the album to feel like a journey as that’s what the songwriting process felt like. I want the audience to live it with me but also get that deep gut energy of wanting to dance.
Do you have a favorite lyric on the album? If so, which one and why?
Hmmmm tough but the first one that comes to mind is “You bury me for a smile. Showing kindness is a suicide”
Now the album is out there - what next for you?
I want to perform more so that will be my next focus. I’d love to tour this album as performing these songs gives me life.
