ISHAN On EP ‘The Cycle of Codependence’
Following the release of his instantly engaging offerings Cardboard Box Apartment, and Someone Like Me, emerging pop talent ISHAN has truly arrived. From busking on Melbourne’s famed Bourke Street Mall, to taking over national airwaves, ISHAN is quickly proving himself as one to watch. The Melbourne/ Naarm singer-songwriter releases his debut EP The Cycle of Codependence.
The EP weaves a narrative through ISHAN’s exciting and tumultuous first relationship, and is tied together by his signature anecdotal style of writing that is just a touch too specific not to be real. ISHAN’s music is characterised by soaring vocals, catchy melodies and genuine emotion, with the five songs showcasing a blend of modern pop, indie acoustic singer-songwriter and pop rock. ISAHAN answers a few questions about the EP for Hi Fi Way.
Is there a feeling of relief and satisfaction once you got to the finish line with your EP?
There was a strong feeling of satisfaction. This EP represents the first time that I’ve really found “my sound” on a record. I feel like the production did the story and songwriting of The Cycle of Codependence justice, and that’s all I could’ve wished for.
As a solo artist did it take a while to work out your sound and what you want to be?
As far as my sound is concerned, absolutely! I don’t have a background in music production so while I’ve always had a clear vision as a writer, I’ve had to meet the right producers who understand me and the places I’m trying to take my music / stories in order to create that sound.
Sonically, how would you describe your EP?
It’s a mixture of singer-songwriter, acoustic pop and pop rock.
Has busking in Melbourne been a big part of shaping your sound?
I don’t think it’s shaped my sound too much. Everything I do stems from my songwriting and the stories I want to tell. I like to think that every last production detail is a direct effort to serve the narrative of the song. That said, busking in Melbourne has had a massive impact on my live performance. The ability to regularly practice/ iterate/ change my live show in front of a completely new audience has made me even more comfortable on stage than I ever thought possible. The notion of 10,000 hours certainly applies to live music, and I have busking to thank for an ever increasing sense of mastery.
Did everything go plan in the studio?
Pretty much. I always stress about the little things while I’m there and making this EP was no different… But ultimately I think the record ended up being the best version of itself, and certainly something that I’m incredibly proud of.
What did you thinking playing it back start to end for the first time?
To be honest, for that first listen I didn’t have many musical thoughts. I remember being much more engaged with reliving the narratives that are present in the songs; perhaps that was my brain’s way of letting me know I’d achieved what I set out to achieve.
Are you continuing to write more songs with an album in mind?
Yes 😉
Who are some of your musical heroes?
JP Saxe, Jimmy Eat World, Sasha Alex Sloan
Are you looking to tour more broadly in 2024?
I would love to tour in 2024 but it’s tough for an emerging artist to make it work. I am sure I can find a way though.
What are your top 3 albums for 2023?
- Bewitched – Laufey
- Neotheater – AJR (technically released in 2019 but I found it this year)
- Emails i can’t send fwd – Sabrina Carpenter
Interview By Rob Lyon
Connect with Isahan
Instagram ~ Tik Tok ~ YouTube ~ Soundcloud
