The latest release from Kieran Stracey gives off a combination of old school and new school pop approaches and does it with the ability to quickly build a catchy atmosphere and a unique undertone that makes everything all his own.
"Improvise a Heartbreak" does an outstanding job of displaying a youth and songwriters that are taking their own path and pop music and in doing so are able to create songs that feel almost like you've been listening to them for years.
The way that Kieran takes control of the song is outstanding and everything is done in such a subtle and dynamic way that it sneaks up on you.
Once that chorus hits you you're locked in, and you find yourself itching for the next one even though those verses are also displaying plenty of hooks as well.
There's so much about this song that is done in such a smart and attentive way especially in the production because there are use of synths and beats that have a way of building while the vocals have you paying attention to them so when that course comes in, it feels bigger.
I love that nostalgic backbone you hear across this track because there are these old school or classic influences being brought into the song and Kieran is doing his own thing with them.
This is certainly a radio friendly pop single that has a wonderful way of taking your favorite elements of different pop subgenres and bringing them together.
You do have hints of ambient undertones and there is drive both musically and emotionally in there as well. But you also have this great Indie pop approach that doesn't make the song lo-fi but makes it more relatable in a way.
And all that stuff is thought out by the artist.
So, Kieran certainly isn't new to the game because the way this was woven was not only with heart but with great respect for the craft as well as for the listener.
Of course, this all could just come naturally to him and he's one of those artists that could possibly sit down in his workstation and 5 hours later have a banger like this one.
But it doesn't feel that way. It feels like this was all carefully crafted.
This is part of what makes it so addictive, so catchy, so fun, so danceable, but also so Indie at the same time and I love that.
Again, there's also that personal aspect of the song lyrically so we did want to sit down with Kieran to find out where this track actually came from.
Here's what happened.
Buzz Slayers: Okay Kieran, let's start with "Improvise A Heartbreak"! This had a bright feel with a cinematic chorus that felt genuine! How did this track come about?
This song was actually created in my first ever writing session which I’ll always remember distinctively because I’ve never felt that level of imposter syndrome before. The first couple of hours at least were spent mindlessly searching for inspiration and feeling as though songwriting perhaps wasn’t for me. I always feel most at home with an instrument so after picking up the guitar and drowning my doubts with a few strums, Henry (producer) hit record and Improvise a Heartbreak was born. In terms of topic, similarly to many other songwriters, I love writing from personal experience - it makes a song far more heartfelt and real. A popular songwriting topic is obviously the feeling of heartbreak, but few articulate the emotions and feelings of breaking someone’s heart. I really enjoy disguising vulnerable lyrics behind joyful instrumentals - best of both worlds!
Buzz Slayers: This song has some unique but familiar feels. Can you give us some of your biggest influences musically?
My biggest musical influences with this song in particular were The Wombats, Sea Girls, Circa Waves etc. A classic indie vibe road trip vibe with a bit of a pop essence.
Buzz Slayers: What are you doing when you're NOT working on music?
Being a musician/artist isn’t always the fairytale lifestyle many assume it is. Sometimes it has to remain as a side hustle until you can live comfortably from it. So, with that said, I work in the marketing team for Osprey Europe and I’m fortunate enough to actually love my job as well! It fully encompasses my other passion - the outdoors, so I can’t complain!
Buzz Slayers: Are you obsessing over any bands or artists right now?
Yes - The 1975 and The Band Camino… Absolutely and entirely obsessed!
Buzz Slayers: Are you playing shows right now?
Although I used to play frequent shows as a drummer, the idea of performing as a front man is entirely novel to me! That being said, once I have enough of a repertoire, I would absolutely love to perform my songs live!
Buzz Slayers: This track feels like a pretty big undertaking. Is there any advice you'd give to other up-and-coming artists out there?
Firstly, I wouldn’t say I feel as though I’m in a position to start giving advice as an artist. However, I feel like I have been a musician for a long enough time to give some guidance at least. There has always been a part of me that wanted people from across the globe to know of my music; that always really excited me. I’ve also studied music from the age of seven participating in instrumental exams, to GCSE’s, to A-levels, to a first-class honors degree in Music. Hence, make sure you are in it for the right reasons. Also, in today’s digital society, get yourself online, showcasing your music. Although live performance is so important, growing a following in this industry is arguably of equal or greater importance. Without my following, I doubt I would have received any of the opportunities I have had. In correspondence with that, think creatively, remain consistent, and ensure it makes you happy.
Buzz Slayers: Can we expect any music videos coming from you?
I love seeing sonic ideas translate into visuals and hence, I would love to do some music videos. I’m at the very start of my artist journey and for now I am solely focusing on writing and releasing, but certainly keep your eyes peeled for future music videos!
Buzz Slayers: What's your absolute favorite aspect about doing what you do?
There’s something very special about hearing how your music affects someone’s day, or inspires a particular emotion, or simply hearing someone sing a lyric of yours. Personally, I’ve never achieved the same feeling from any other activity. So I guess it would be achieving a feeling and drive unobtainable from anything else I’ve tried!
Buzz Slayers: What can your fans expect from you in the near future?
Lots and lots of new music and lots of lots of content!
Buzz Slayers: Before we go, what would you like to say to fans of the music?
I’m not going to thank each and every one of you because that’s what every artist does, so instead, keep following the journey and I’ll keep providing!