“Strangers on a Train” is a tune that has a timeless feel, one that could easily be considered a classic both today and in musical eras gone by. What does this song mean to you?
Connor: That means a lot. For me I think the song represents a transition out of the "retro funk" style that I had previously been working in and into a more art-rock-based sound--less defined by decade or previously established aesthetic.
I saw on your Facebook page that you listed Bowie, St. Vincent, and Lou Reed among some of your musical inspirations and influences. If you had to choose just one, which of these would you say most gets your creative energies flowing?
Connor: Because St. Vincent is currently working today, I'd say that she's the one that most encourages and challenges me to get to work.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of music?
Connor: I'm fascinated by art in all its forms. If I'm not writing or performing I'm likely making/viewing visual art, reading, or watching some oddball art film.
Who would your dream collaboration involve?
Connor: There are so many people I would love to work with. A few names that come to mind are Ryan Lott, Ian Chang, and Rafiq Bhatia from the band Son Lux and of course, Annie Clark (St. Vincent).
If you could sit down with any artist (past or present) for 15 minutes and have them answer every question you could pose, who would you choose and why?
Connor: This is a great question. If they were required to answer truthfully I would have to say, Bob Dylan. There are so many questions about his creative process that I would kill to have insight into. If they didn't have to answer truthfully I'd say the painter Jasper Johns, as he'd be far less likely to lie.
What’s coming next on your musical journey, and what should fans be keeping an eye out for?
Connor: I've got yet another single coming out next month which I'm really excited for people to hear! It's an acoustic version of a previously released song that allowed me to work in a very different way than I usually do. It's centered on rawness and robust vulnerability, and I forced myself not to meticulously hammer out the idiosyncrasies.
Interviewed By Vanessa Siebrass
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