Preston Bearden, also known as Otlo, skillfully blends ethereal keys and sweet guitars in the latest single titled Something More. A melancholic bedroom project brimming with nostalgia. Read our discussion with the artist below!
Describe your sound in 3 words
Dreamy, Uncanny, Lo-fi
Tell us a few things about Something More. What is the story behind us?
When I started the song, I knew I wanted to make something that sounded big and guitar-driven but also amateur at the same time. The song is about being rejected by someone who doesn’t make their lack of feelings clear through words but rather through actions. A ton of people can relate to wanting something more than a friendship but constantly recieving mixed signals from those they want.
From which synth comes this lovely detuned warm pad you use in a couple of songs?
My favorite pad ever comes from the Synthi V synth from Arturia, it’s actually a preset from Analog Lab.
Your most honest and personal lyric (from any of your songs)?
My most personal lyric so far is probably “I see a better life; I fear it’s no more; Not a worthier breath to take”
This lyric is from “But A Dream” and its basically me saying there is no point in continuing existence because all of the good times were in the past
If aliens visit us and ask us what bedroom pop is, which album would you give them to listen to?
While its not an album, Strawberry Guy’s “Taking My Time to Be” EP is about as bedroom pop as you can get. He has been a huge influence for me.
Your music sounds really nostalgic. If a time machine could take you anywhere (past/future) for a day, when/where would you go?
I am always ruminating on the past. When I was younger, me and my high school friends went to Universal Studios together. That was the peak of my life. I always wish I could go back and experience the pure joy I felt.
Favourite music related film?
It’s gotta be “The Sound of Music”, especially because that movie has such a liminal feel to it.
Why does melancholia feel so good?
I’ve been trying to figure that out myself. I think melancholy provides a sort of “comfortable sadness”. The comfort comes from the familiarity of thinking about the past and distracts us from the challenges of the future. Even though it hurts, hoplessness can sometimes be more comforting than hope. You know that there is nothing you can do to change or relive the past, but making good times in the future takes work.
Thank you!
Follow our Spotify Playlist “Dark Chocolate” feat. Otlo
Secret Eclectic 