‘New Single’ is where a band or artist answers a couple of quick questions about their latest Single release. Up next is Sofia Machray, who has just released a new song Petals In The Rain.
What the song is about lyrically?
‘Petals In The Rain’ delves into the realm of nostalgia, reflecting on moments and phases in our lives that mold and transform us into the individuals we are today. The song ultimately explores the themes of self-discovery and personal growth experienced while navigating adulthood. During the writing phase, I was processing some of my first losses, heartbreak, and letting go of old friendships that were no longer serving me.
The first rendition of the song was quite solemn and cinematic, reflecting the headspace I was in at the time. I found myself dwelling on things initially, but eventually, I realised there was a lot to learn through these experiences. As soon as I changed my mindset, I found it extremely liberating and learnt a lot about myself. I ended up sitting with the song again and re-writing it. For me, ‘Petals In The Rain’ is about learning to see the beauty in challenging times and a reminder to be kind to yourself, embrace the people you have around you, and celebrate the small wins, whatever they may be!
Who produced/recorded it? Did the track come together in the studio, or at home?
I co-produced ‘Petals In The Rain’ with my good friend, guitarist, and engineer Robbie Pattinson. We were lucky enough to record drums and bass in Ahumairangi studio at Massey University. From there we tracked guitars in Robbie’s home studio and vocals in the Lilburn Studios at New Zealand School Music—Te Kōkī where I work full-time. It took a year to track the full record, whenever we found a spare moment we’d be in a studio somewhere chipping away at the project!
Were there any gear or effects that you used in the mix to get the sound you were after?
The track was expertly mixed by James Goldsmith who is known for being a bit of a wizard when it comes to making things sounds pretty! I imagine he casted some epic spells in his studio using his vintage wand.
Is this a stand-alone track or part of an upcoming album or EP?
‘Petals In The Rain,’ is the first single off my forthcoming 6-track debut EP, ‘Language of Flowers,’ set for release in July 2023.
Photo: Olivia Melhop