Meet austenyo (real name Austen Scheer), an upcoming indie artist who's recently emerged from Michigan. I discovered Austen a couple of weeks back and instantly grew on his music but I was eager to know more, and so I got in touch.

As a result of that, we had a quick little interview about the process of how "backup generator" came about and a few quirky little facts about the guy.

Who is austenyo? What's the story behind the name?

The name's Austen, yo. I grew up in Michigan and I absolutely love music! I also enjoy making videos and pasta sauce.

What inspired you to write 'backup generator'? What is it about? 

My manager and I were in a bit of a Billie Jean mania one weekend, and I was committed to writing a HOT baseline. I fiddled around a bit, connected some sonic dots, and once I felt one approaching, I immediately looped it and started improvising some lyrics. Before I knew it, I was singing about a backup generator.

How would you describe your musical style? 

The whole thing feels like a casual improvisation session when I’m making it. If I had to put it in an editorial description right now, I’d go for “ever associative and brimming with playfulness".

Where are you from and where do you currently reside? 

I’m still in Metro Detroit Michigan, working for the Oakland County Government as a Video Specialist.

How did you start getting into music production? 

During  ​my first year in college, I got this wonderful synth called the OP-1. My journey into making full-on musical productions in software began there, using that device and Ableton. I’ve always tried to keep my set up and tracks simple.

Which artists/bands influence you?

I’m influenced by so many artists, it's always too difficult for me to narrow it down. Recently, I’ve been listening to some Enjoy, Ravyn Lenae, The Drums, and Toro Y Moi’s recent singles.

So I hope you guys had fun reading through the mini "interview" and thoroughly enjoyed his music as this most certainly won't be the last time you'll hear of him.

posted by Zuli
March 2019