Introducing #174 - Athena Joy
Let us introduce you to indietronica artist Athena Joy - who makes mysterious alt-pop tracks that ticks the boxes for fans of Sia, Halsey and Florence and the Machine. She recently released her new track ‘Disconnect’ - an euphoric burst of emotion about the exploration of mental health. She took a moment to talk to us about her music.
Hey there Athena, how are you? So your new single ‘Disconnect’ is out now - can you tell us what it is about?
Hello! I'm good thankyou.
Disconnect was inspired by mental health but more like I'm reflecting on it or looking at it from a distance. I used to ride the tram everyday and watch the world outside from the window and constantly wonder what it was like out there for the people I'd see. To just be living, to be present. I feel like so often Im stuck in my own head that I don't even feel like I'm really in the world anymore if that makes sense? Anyways it was inspired by that feeling and kind of grew from there.
How does this track differ from your previous tracks and EPs?
I think the biggest difference is that this track is a little more direct lyrically I think in terms of what its referencing. Its not the first time that a 'disconnected' feeling or mental health has crept its way into a song of mine but I think I usually use a lot of metaphors where as this song kind of just says what it is. The pre choruses especially they kind of ponder like a line by line thought process, trying to make sense of everything. It kind of feels like a perfect segway into what music is coming next because where I'm at at the moment is just trying to find less places to hide- in life and music.
Where are you based? What are your favorite things to do there?
I've just moved back to the South Gold Coast of Australia after spending 6 months of r&r in my hometown in NSW with my family (much needed after last years chaos and border closures etc.) I love where I live now though...I love the creeks/beaches, the cafes, the people - it feels like home. I find a lot of time in nature really helps free myself a lot from the chaos in my brain. My favourite things to do are spending a good sunset on the beach, roadtripping to brisbane to catch some of my friends shows or honestly even just give me a good cup of tea on the couch with my housemate and her dog and Im happy.
What are your key influences when it comes to your music?
I’m a big fan of artists like Halsey, Vera Blue and Lady gaga artists that are within the pop realm but also put a creative artsy twist on everything they do. I think you can probably here them in my music in some of my glittery pop synths and melodies. Im really inspired by women in music who are unafraid to show their power and be themselves.
How would you describe your sound to someone who has never listened to your music before?
Glittery dark pop with some emotional grit/realness
Or as my friends say, music you can drive in the pouring rain, looking out the window contemplating your whole damn life to.