By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Already known for having his music played in the flagship Adidas Originals stores and as the co-writer for Lil Tjay’s “F.N.,” which reached #56 on the Billboard Hot 100, alternative electronic composer Melldu has kept his momentum headed forward into and through 2021.
Supported by singles “River” and “Gold,” his new album ‘Mute Theatre’ recently dropped via Maida Maori, which has drawn comparisons to acts like Burial, Tycho and Kiasmos.
According to the artist, he revealed that the album’s concept is meant to be the first part of a future album series and is up for interpretation in the sense that the listener can “sit in the back row and just watch how their life goes on silently and meaninglessly, or they can clear their thoughts and start living the life they dreamed of.”
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with him about ‘Mute Theatre’ and more.
Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your style of music?
Melldu – Composing melodies, be it piano or guitar melody. This is the most important thing for me.
Music Bugle – What was it like working on your new album ‘Mute Theatre’?
Melldu – This is a very difficult work. I started it back in 2018. I redid many things. Many demo tracks were not included in the final album. Probably, I will not delay the creation of new tracks so much. Got experience. You always need to be able to finish work on music and just release it.
Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?
Melldu – I listen to a lot of indie folk, like Bon Iver and Ben Howard. Also, neoclassic like Olafur Arnalds and Nils Frahm. Those whose music evokes emotions in me.
Music Bugle – How did you decide the name “Melldu”?
Melldu – This is an anagram from the word “Melody.” It’s simple!
Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians?
Melldu – Help, for sure. I think many musicians would not exist at all, if not for the help of the internet and social media.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Melldu – Before the pandemic, I was already living in a pandemic! I literally live in a studio, making music every day. Since I don’t play concerts all over the world, the pandemic didn’t affect me.
Music Bugle – What makes you the most proud about where you come from?
Melldu – I’m from Belarus and political shit is going on right now. Until there is justice and freedom in my country, questions about pride have no place.
Music Bugle – If you had to pick your own theme song, what would it be?
Melldu – Ry X – “Body Sun.”
*Photo Credit – Oleg Larin*
