‘New Album’ is where a band or artist answers some questions about their latest release. Up next is Albert Mikolaj, who records under the name A.U.R.A, and has just released new album Secret Intelligent Light.
When/where was the new album recorded?
Recorded over about 2 years from late 2016. At Ben Lemi’s home studio and mixes from my tiny 4 track recorder.
Who produced/engineered the album? How did the tracks come together in the studio, or at home?
Ben Lemi produced the record. Again, a mixture of studio and home work. Ben and I collaborated a lot from a sonic texture point of view.
How did the songwriting happen?
Song writing is a beautiful beautiful thing and I have worked these songs over many many years. I think each song on the album had about ten demo versions with various changes. I love to search on the mystery and essence of a song.
Are there any overall themes within the songs/album?
There certainly are themes yes. I want the keen listener to extrapolate them I guess. Ultimately it comes down to being an artist and making art. As Joni Mitchell said “I was a hopeful in rooms like this when I was working cheap”.
Were you going for a different sound/approach on this album?
Just sonically supporting the emotional journey and quiescence of the words.
Was there any specific gear you used to capture that?
I had a very old nylon string guitar. The story goes Paul Simon commissioned its design and then didn’t like it…but I do! Cello, Harmonium, A Prophet. Few interesting quirks along the way.
Is there a particular single/track that you feel captures the essence of the album?
I love Dr Simone. Taalam Acey is one of my favourite spoken word artists of all time and allowed permission to use his words. A great blessing.
Is there a physical copy available? If not which digital platforms is it available on?
Yes! Vinyl is available from Cosmic Dreamer Music, Rough Peel and I believe most record shops around New Zealand.
Are you working on a video/videos for any of the songs?
There is video for G I Wonder and Who Decides on my YouTube. We are thinking about more videos in the future.