Inspried #349 - Bryde
British artist Bryde takes us on a discussion around the different kinds of love on new track ‘Silver Suns’ - channeling divine feminine energy in this piano-led ode to self acceptance. With nods to Cat Power, Sufjan Stephens and Tori Amos, this single hints at new music to come from Bryde this year, the beginning of a third album. She took a moment to talk to us about the inspirations behind her music.
Who are your top three musical inspirations and why?
Bjork
Radiohead
Jeff Buckley
They all sing with a real sense of freedom and their music has this unrestrained emotion I love. If I was to break it down I guess I'd say, I'm inspired by Jeff Buckley's guitar tone and style, Thom Yorke's melodies and Bjork's dynamic range and uncontrived vocals.
Is there a certain film that inspires you and why?
I had a really emotional reaction to the film Her when I first saw it years ago. There's something really powerful about how it portrays connection and longing. I also love the nod it gives to ideas around spirituality when the AIs create a sort of "hyper intelligent" OS modeled on the British philosopher Alan Watts, to act as their guru or guide. There was something about it that made me think about our traditional ways of living more critically.
What city do you find the most inspiring and why?
It has to be London. I've lived here for over 10 years now and it never fails to invigorate and revive me. I've had moments of falling out of love with it, usually when the weather is grey for too long and everything feels very heavy, but generally I just feel it vibrates with this amazing energy. The mix of beautiful historic places and cutting edge development, the cacophony of cultures.
Who is the most inspiring person to you and why?
This is such a difficult question. There are so many people who inspire me but I've thought of two that are more recent.
I've found the US Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortwez to be really inspiring in recent years. She seems kind yet passionate... driven without being ruthless or money-motivated. The world needs more politicians like that.
Zen and Mindfulness have continued to inspire me recently, even if incorporating it into life is an endless challenge. I really admire the teachings of the recently departed Thich Nach Hahn. He has some beautifully accessible books if anyone's keen to get more into it.
What were your inspirations when writing your new track?
The theme of self acceptance is pretty central to Silver Suns. I was inspired by my own journey into self discovery, learning to be less judgemental towards myself and others. Musically, Joni Mitchell and Sufjan Stevens.
How would you like to inspire people?
I'd like to somehow inspire people to find joy in the small things and to feel comfortable being themselves.
