Gem
Otherworldly LA-based Aussie producer and DJ, Gem has shared her dreamy new electro pop banger, Malibu, the first taste of her forthcoming EP set for release later this year. The track is accompanied by a suitably contemplative video that gently whisks the viewer through the utopian dreamstate of Gem’s mind.
This stylish, meditative, retro electro track is buoyed by warm synths, chilled 80s-inspired percussion and that wistful vocal. For fans of The 1975, Jessie Ware and LANY, the song was mixed by Grammy winning Serve Courtois (LANY, Sasha Sloan, Loud Luxury) and mastered by multi Grammy award winning Dale Becker (Khalid, Macklemore, RÜFÜS DU SOL). Tuned to 432hz, the frequency known to align oneself with the universe. Gem answers a few questions for Hi Fi Way.
How has the build-up been leading up to the release of the single Malibu?
It was bizarre as I was adjusting to COVID life. I’ve been quiet, focused and really concentrated on the music.
Was the process of making your single as challenging as you thought?
It really just flowed. Once I had the idea- it really did just glide on out. Perhaps it had been building for a while deep in my sub conscious because the songs came rushing out.
Sonically, how would you describe your music?
Retro- electro pop. Chilled out, gentle and uplifting.
Who would you consider to be the biggest influence on your music and why?
There have been a few! I love the style of how Sasha Sloan writes, the way Stevie Nicks sings, Linda Perry’s straight shooter communication style, I love JOYS breathy vibes and how Calvin Harris is the master of popular electro tracks.
Best piece of advice you have been given?
Be interested and interesting.
What is the Gem life story?
I grew up in the country, I had a pet cow called Madeline- I named her after the French cartoon because I craved travel and adventure and France just seemed like the most fancy, far away place from Mandalong I could think of. I spent hours in my room listening to music and have worn a few different creative hats. I always came back to music though, that was always a theme. Music always felt like home.
It ended up being a move across the hemisphere to a brand new city and a broken heart wrapped in a betrayal from an artist that I didn’t really see coming that ended up pushing me to make my own project. To get out in front and do my own thing. I had spent a lot of time supporting others and building their dreams. I guess I wanted something to call my own, that no one could take away. That was how the2070s was born- my first Gem producer project for myself.
What’s next for Gem?
My next single, If I’m Honest comes out in September .
Top tip for staying sane during COVID?
Meditate. Meditate. Meditate. I create sonic tonics, available on my YouTube channel, these are frequencies designed to calm, lift and create a feeling of harmony and wellbeing within. Stay connected to your friends and family, call them on video chat- it’s a good thing to see the face of a human you love.
Interview By Rob Lyon
Connect with Gem
Facebook ~ Instagram ~ Spotify
