“Beginning Again” intricately weaves sweet IDM patterns, analogue synth riffs and dreamy vocal chops, reflecting the emotions associated with releasing the past and embracing new beginnings. We highly recommend exploring the entire catalog of the talented artist—it’s truly worth it! Read our discussion below!
Describe your sound in 3 words:
Explorative, Layered, Introspective
How did you approach the production of “Beginning Again” to reflect the emotional themes of letting go and embracing change?
The track began as a dream-like chord progression on synth. I liked its slightly detuned, bittersweet and airy sound. I think the quality of the sound inspired the chord progression. Like a dusty tape recorder you may find in an old box of random things, it pulled you back in time. On top of that I initially wrote the rhythmic bass line which is now at the end of the song. I liked that it contrasted with the mellow ambience of the synth. In the beginning that was the song, without a real progression from one to the other. The idea stayed on the shelf for a little while, but I knew I was going to get back to it. My songwriting has a sort of collaging element to it, where I weave together themes or ideas and layer them. Trying to make sense of them as a whole.
When I decided to come back to the idea I was listening to a lot of electronic music from the likes of Jamie XX, Floating Points, Flume and many others, and I was wanting to add more rhythmic elements to the song. I thought that this could illustrate the feeling of change; a progression. The dance elements reminded me of some sort of freedom, breaking down your own barriers. Dancing around like you are free of any judgement and thought. It is something I wanted for this song. Progressing from one theme to the other is a different story, but one thing that I really enjoyed doing in that process was to incorporate nature samples. Chopping them up and adding them to the production to support the rhythmic changes; bird singing, trees blowing in the wind and bits here and there. I wanted to add that dimension of reconnecting with nature. Something that helped me ground myself in times I felt disoriented. It actually filled the track beautifully. I read somewhere recently that the word ‘nature’ in Chinese is ‘Ziran’ which is a state of constantly unfolding, constantly changing. Something you can’t really have control over. You just have to accept it. That’s what the song is about, letting go and accepting change.
What challenges did you face while trying to balance the opposing forces of nostalgia and hope in the track?
Creating the build-up from the nostalgic synth to the liberating dance rhythms was definitely a challenge. It wasn’t really about balancing the elements but creating the right transition between them. I wanted that progression to feel natural whilst capturing the complexity in the emotional state of change. The tension in uncertainty.
One day I stumbled upon an older idea I had recorded while experimenting with an analogue synth, the Korg ARP Odyssey. I didn’t really know what I was doing with it at the time. As I moved the faders up and down, exploring possible sounds, a repetitive swell emerged. A comforting yet uncertain undulation, which carried some sort of suspense, like something was looming. A shift? This synth became the bridge between nostalgia and hope in Beginning Again.
Listening to your back catalogue reveals a wide variety of genres, from progressive house to James Blake’s post-dubstep and even nu jazz. Has it been challenging to promote such a diverse range of music under the “Elia Tomé” brand?
I think that being inspired by many artists and music out there has helped shape my sound tremendously, and I am so thankful for that. I love diversity within genre, especially when lines are blurred to an extent that the sources of inspiration are hard to define. This is so interesting to me compositionally. However, marketing-wise, it can be challenging, particularly at this stage of my journey. Nowadays many channels and playlists are looking for very specific music, whether it is by genre or mood. If you don’t fall into a particular category, your music has fewer chances of reaching a wider audience. Cutting through the noise becomes more difficult in that sense. Though I believe that if you have a clear vision as an artist and stay true to it, people will eventually listen.
Even as an electronic producer, your music places a strong emphasis on the melodic part of the track. Is it safe to assume that your songwriting process begins with the melody/chord progression?
I think I have different approaches to different songs. Beginning Again started with a chord progression for example. Other times I might latch on to a melody or a rhythmic phrase. It depends on what feels right at that moment. I think any element can tell a story or set a scene. Often it might also depend on the instrument. I really enjoy finding melodies on my electric guitar for example, chords on the piano or soundscapes on my little Minilogue. I’m most definitely open to experiment with things and find new ideas.
There might be different definitions for what an electronic producer is. I enjoy blending songwriting and production in a broader sense. Incorporating electronic soundscapes in my songs is a way for me to create a universe and tell a story. Beginning Again is actually part of a bigger narrative, where electronic production plays a significant role. But my approach varies from project to project. Some might not even need electronic elements.
Artists and people that have influenced you?
Many, but if I have to narrow it down to a few I would say: Radiohead, Floating Points, James Blake, Bon Iver, Adrianne Lenker, Keith Jarrett.
Greek and Lebanese currently based in Leeds, England. What do you love/hate in each of these 3 countries?
Around Leeds, I love walks in thick green forests, and playing good football every week with friends. I’m somehow not a fan of canned beans in the English breakfast (blasphemy I know).
When I go back to Athens, I know I’ll see the sun, the sea and taste the best kind of fruits. I’m less stressed. Though traffic in Athens can be very frustrating.
As for Lebanon, the food is incredible, especially when it’s homemade. Mountains are breathtaking. But the history of war in the area is heartbreaking.
Despite their differences, I appreciate the simplicity of people and the music in all three countries.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Do what you love and don’t overthink things too much. Also don’t stop piano lessons.
Thank you!
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