Artist

Indie Rocker Ty Segall Aims for a Quieter, Less Frequent Release Schedule

Published January 24, 2024

In the energetic world of indie rock, Ty Segall stands out as someone who defies the stereotypical image of a rock star. He's low-key and modest in his demeanor, yet when he performs, Segall's love for loud music becomes evident. The rise of the volume dial signals more than noise; for him and his audience, it's a collective, almost physical experience that brings people together.

Embracing the Physicality of Sound

Segall's journey with music began with the visceral experience that rock and punk music offered during his youth. This led him to teaching himself how to play guitar, finding a fundamental connection with the physical nature of sound. Despite his career success, Segall has recently acknowledged the value of dynamics in his music, realizing the power of not only the louder moments but also those that are softer and more varied.

Finding Balance in His Art

His imminent album, 'Three Bells', showcases a more restrained side of Segall, though it still features longing for the more intense sonic experiences of his past works. With a greater focus on drums and the intuitive expression they allow, his latest project demonstrates a shift towards more balanced compositions. Segall remains a prolific artist, known for his psychedelic influences and complex guitar solos, but he plans to slow down his release cadence to prevent the dilution of his music's impact.

Songwriting Sprinkled with Mystique

Segall approaches his songwriting with a Lynchian mystique, crafting pleasing yet dissonant tunes that challenge the listener while maintaining engagement. His songs often break away from conventional lengths and structures, a characteristic that is prominently featured on 'Three Bells'.

Reflecting on Prolificacy and Personal Themes

With 'Three Bells' marking his 14th solo release in almost twenty years, Segall felt a certain pride in his extensive catalogue. Yet, he admits to reconsidering the frequency of his releases. Though his lyrics remain enigmatic, they are his most personal to date, discussing themes from his wife and dog to existential concerns.

The Touring Life: A Necessary Reality

Despite his intent to space out his album releases, Segall shows no signs of reducing his active touring schedule, which remains a vital source of income in today's streaming-dominated music industry. While he has built a dedicated early fanbase, streaming platforms pose noticeable challenges for emerging artists, and Segall expresses a desire for better royalty rates that would mark a significant difference for musicians.

music, touring, streaming