By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Already notable for single releases “Capture Love” and “Worthless Souls,” Melted Wings’ 80’s synth-friendly and guitar-layered partial concept album ‘Cheer For The Deer,’ is slated for release on Apr. 6, 2022.
The side project of musician Michael Wynn, ‘Cheer For The Deer’ explores themes of acceptance and rooting for the underdog.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with him about ‘Cheer For The Deer’ and more.
Music Bugle – What was your goal for your song “Capture Love”?
Melted Wings – A few years ago, I was fiddling with my kid’s keyboard, which had some great synth sounds and I wrote the music to capture love – along with several other songs – with this keyboard. Normally, I primarily write on guitar, so it was inspiring for me to try things on keys. I realized that the song itself had an 80’s/90’s feel a bit, so I tried to incorporate that type of sound. I also had never incorporated sequencers before, so was pleasantly surprised that it fit so well, that intro bit was probably the last thing I added musically. Lyrically, I decided to go the positive route – primarily because of the current world state, although the verses are a bit down. Hopefully, the chorus though, lifts someone back up.
Music Bugle – What inspired the “Melting Wings” name for the project?
Melted Wings – “Melted Wings” was just something I came up with randomly one day, when I was seeking a project name. I think I didn’t want to use my real name because it is used for all kinds of music and other things, so I was looking for something unique and also realized “Melted Wings” has the same starting letters as my name. Of course, it comes from icarus, but as opposed to that tragic story, It seemed a way to indicate I was grounded. We all probably wish we could fly and some of us behave that way. The term “Melted Wings” brings you back to reality, to the ground, so to speak.
Music Bugle – What was it like putting together your upcoming album?
Melted Wings – It was great. A lot of cathartic late nights and inspirations. It definitely helped me cope with the lockdowns and the lack of social interaction the world has had lately. At first, I thought I would just be putting together only a couple of songs and releasing an EP. It started with the song “Everyday Is Like 2020,” which is an instrumental, I put that out at the end of 2020. I recruited Nixon Boyd – known for his work with Hollerado, Anyway Gang, etc. – to mix my home recordings. He produces lots of music and did my last two EPs and I trust him with my music. After doing a few songs, I started looking/listening to all the songs I had – on Garageband – and realized I had an album’s worth of songs. After that, I had to decide what to include and I think I’ve got it down to about 10 songs, so I guess it will be my debut album, as everything before was an EP. You’ll also notice, if you listen to my previous stuff, that the genres of music are quite different. This was done purposely, as I always envisioned I would release multi-genre music. I knew I would start with a sort of folk/country feel. Actually, on my first EP ‘The Bane Of My Existence,’ the song “The Land Of Fallen Snow” was actually a synth song at first.
Music Bugle – What made you want to choose “Capture Love” as the first single from the album, specifically?
Melted Wings – I actually sent a few songs to my friends and asked which they like first. I had always thought I would release it first, but just needed some support for that. I didn’t tell them which song would be first, but most of them – I think only one person – thought otherwise.
Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?
Melted Wings – Crystal Castles, Handsome Furs, Lenny Bull, Robin Hatch, TR/ST, Touching – from Winnipeg, The Beaches and just started listening to the new Weeknd album, ‘Dawn FM. ‘ I think I like it but not sure yet, I need a few more listens. Also, diving back into The Beatles – because of ‘Get Back’ – and other classics like Johnny Cash, Led Zeppelin, ABBA, Black Sabbath and 80s synth songs. I’m always looking for new music as well, so happy to listen to new recommendations.
Music Bugle – Does social media help or hurt musicians?
Melted Wings – Depends. I think to always be entertaining, such as presenting content, is not in a musician’s DNA. The focus should be on the music. Said The Whale – and The Zolas – kind of hinted at this in recent social media posts. It can be exhausting. In fact, I don’t think it’s natural to us humans. If the first social media platforms presented people in a fake light, it has gotten ten times worse. It’s like the evolution of “reality shows.” They are actually mostly scripted. Scripting your life and presenting something that isn’t real, can wear you out. People need a social media and technology detox.
Music Bugle – What do you hope for as we enter 2022?
Melted Wings – I hope we all are able to start living a little bit normally again. It seems like everything is a balance in life at the moment. For me, I’m fine, as I’m a bit of an introvert, so living life like this is okay for me, but I know it isn’t for many people and I feel for them. Although, I miss going to see bands and hanging out as much as the next person. Virtual hangouts are not the same.
Music Bugle – What has been your hardest challenge lately?
Melted Wings – Last year, we had to put down our dog Ziggy. It was and wasn’t a surprise. He had kidney disease, but seemed fine for several years. It was heartbreaking to say goodbye. All pet owners know what I mean. However, on the plus side, because of the pandemic, we spent so much time together in 2020 and part of 2021. More than we would have normally, so that was a blessing.
Music Bugle – What is your proudest accomplishment?
Melted Wings – Probably the 1000-piece puzzle we recently completed! No, really, those things are hard! Especially when all the pieces look the same. When I was younger, my parents gave me a 2000-piece puzzle of the Earth from the moon perspective. I never finished it. It was just too hard! Seriously though, I am very happy with my music, actually. Happy that I can create something I’m proud of. Usually, my vision is exceeded, whether people like it or not, is secondary to me liking myself and so far, so good.
Music Bugle – Away from music, what’s something people may be surprised to know about you?
Melted Wings – I am a serious pandemic sourdough baker. I have a 2-year-old starter that I am constantly experimenting with. Other than working and creating music, you’ll find me dealing with my sourdough.
