Logan Vath is a prominent up-and-coming singer-songwriter who is already starting to the world by storm. Next week we see (and hear!) the noteworthy musician release his epic record, In the Presence of the Kingdom, a gorgeous piece of work that recalls elements of new and old Americana-Indie tendencies. Produced by Daniel Mendez, Vath creates a musical journey that is near and dear to his heart. We recently caught up with Logan Vath to discuss the inspiration behind the new record, as well as his musical musings.
What comes first when writing, the music or the lyrics?
While there’s no set formula really, I tend to find a lyric tied to a melody that I attach to – often a chorus. Once I have that, I’ll start to build chords and other words that fit around the theme. Why so? Sitting down and writing without an instrument is just tough for me. I also like to be able to record ideas as I go and hear them back and modify whatever the songs call for.
What is the theme and concept behind the upcoming record?
In the Presence of the Kingdom, for me, is filled with songs of reflection with a tinge of longing. There’s a lot of focus on where I come from and a little less on where I’m headed. What inspired you? These five songs are drenched in family, location, and relationships both romantic and personal. As with most things I write, I was inspired by how living can cycle from incredibly easy to insanely difficult in the blink of an eye; and with that, my own inability to just relax.
Your vocals are silky smooth with an incredible driving edge to them. What vocalists do you look up to and how did you craft your vocal style?
Well, thank you. Honestly, a lot my favorite vocalists are a little twangy, and if I were to go twangy it wouldn’t be authentic. I love Gram Parsons, Patty Griffin, and the old outlaw country guys. In high school, I remember Damien Rice was one of the first vocalists to blow me away with his dynamic control; the same could be said for Ray Lamontagne. There wasn’t much craft to my style, really. It’s a comfortable range for me to sing in – I’m sure there’s a little of all my influences in there.
What kind of instruments do you use on the new record?
Pretty standard setup on this EP: acoustic and electric guitar, piano, a little B3, drums, and bass.
You worked with Daniel Mendez for the upcoming release. How did the two of you meet and decide to collaborate?
Daniel has done some really killer songwriter albums and I wanted to make a stripped down record that would aid me on solo tours. I reached out via email and we set a meeting after a show I had in New York and ultimately decided to proceed. We recorded In the Presence of the Kingdom in his Brooklyn based studio, which I’ve come to appreciate, because there’s no hustle and bustle on these songs and I really enjoy the contrast. Daniel has really helped shape me and, at the very least, help me believe that these songs are worth recording and sharing. I also got him into motorcycles, so we’re even.
What is the inspiration behind the new single, “Every Town”?
I had taken a trip back to Nebraska a few years back and was having some beers with my dad in his hometown and one of his old friends explained to us that my grandfather had stopped having coffee in his normal spot in town because they raised the price of coffee marginally – something like ten to twenty cents. It was a story I always laugh at, and I think it’s very representative of the mindset of where I grew up. Ultimately, I think the song is me telling myself to get out and go explore, not be scared of discomfort, not be scared of heartbreak – because there are a million places to settle down into once you’re ready.
With elements of Indie Folk and Americana, how do you combine those elements to craft your own, unique sound?
I think lyrically, I’m not really a “folk” singer. It’s all a lot more autobiographical and less bout story telling, but maybe I’m speaking in a traditional sense. I’m a feel and groove-focused person, and melody and words are very important to me. I just want to continue to combine those interests and write songs that have elements that fit together well.
Where do you see Logan Vath as a musician, 10 years from now?
Out of all the things I’ve tried in life, music seems to be the one that keeps me most challenged, interested, and excited. In ten years, I’d like to hope I still have a good level of writing output and am living a life that continues to inspire me. Music has the potential to be a very slow climb, but for now I’m feeling like I’m in it for the long haul – even if I have to roll in second gear.
