Alex Zinchenko is a Kyiv based musician who puts out music under the alias of stonefromthesky. After releasing an EP, “Orbital”, back in 2014, Alex is set to release his debut album “Spirals” on July 20th. Mixing many different genres including post-metal, electronica, alternative rock, and even alternative metal, this album should be experienced by fans of the aforementioned genres. From start to finish, “Spirals” grips you and doesn’t let go with it’s deep, brooding atmosphere and fantastic musicianship from Alex. He was gracious enough to chat about the release as well as some other topics; read on and delve into his thought process when it comes to writing and his unique approach to live music. Be sure to like stonefromthesky on Facebook and pre-order the album on Bandcamp!
Mixing post-metal with electronics is a very unique thing to do and is definitely hard to pull off. What originally made you wish to mix the two genres together? It was kind of natural to me because of my post-metal background and my fascination with limitless possibilities of electronic music. Orbital turned out to be just that – a mix of post-metal with electronica. With Spirals, I took a different route. I didn’t want to limit myself to these two genres, so I made something broader. This time I used a more colorful palette to express my ideas.
What’s been going on between the release of your EP “Orbital” and the release of the full length? Why wait 4 years?
There was a lot of stuff. I’ve been working on music and sound design for UnDungeon video game; played live as much as I could; did some remixes; collaborated with an indie film-maker; and most importantly, accumulated ideas for Spirals. Creating a full-length album isn’t fast if you truly do everything yourself. In particular, it took me some serious time to get my production skills to match what I wanted to accomplish.
What are some of your biggest influences, and how have they shaped your writing?
My biggest influences are my experiences. Music, movies, art, traveling – they all have an impact on me. They leave their footprint, you know. However, what influences me is rather how I interpret them.
As for music, I like it to challenge me, to surprise me even after years of listening to it. Massive Attack, Swans, DJ Shadow, Moderat, Deftones – they all influenced my music, and Spirals in particular.
Are you a self-taught musician, or did you take lessons growing up?
Everything that I know about music, I taught myself through experimentation, self-education with books and videos, by communicating with fellow artists, and of course, by listening to other people’s music. The last one is particularly important for me because it builds a strong artistic bond. It’s like you’re having a chat about music and life with your favorite artist.
What kind of lyrical themes did you explore on the album? Is there an underlying theme between all the songs or is each it’s own separate entity?
I believe that art shouldn’t be explained by its author. Even the craziest story in regards to the meaning that I put into my music will be kind of a poor B-movie comparing to listener’s imagination.
Do you have any plans to tour to support the release?
Sure. The tour is still at the preparation stage at the moment.
When performing live, do you have a group of friends/musicians that will help you perform?
stonefromthesky is a solo electronic live act. However, I play with additional live drums and bass occasionally.
What are some of your most anticipated releases of the year?
Usually, I learn about new music after it has been released.
If you had the ability to tour with 3 artists, past or present, who would they be and why?
Damn, if I had to pick only three, then I would go with Deftones (preferably 00s period), Morphine, and Ben Frost. Because why not?
To those of us who haven’t had the chance to see you live yet, what makes your shows so intense and interesting?
My music has a strong impact on me, thus, I believe that it can speak for itself better than any words that I can come up with right now.
Additionally, I play differently every time. Even if it means that a live version of the track will sound nothing like the studio version. Thus, every live show is a unique experience. It happens only once – there and then.
Is there anything you would like to tell your current or future fanbase?
Thanks a lot for your support. Keep exploring the world of music and sound.
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