Lorna James, Behind The Scenes Of ‘Stratosphere’ — Interview

Following the release of her debut album, ‘Stratosphere,’ Lorna James joins us for this exclusive interview to take us behind the scenes of the production, giving us insight into her inspirations, processes, and lessons she learned during the creation of the project.

As we talk through her favourite tracks on the album and her incorporation of the Indian sitar within the instrumental arrangements, Lorna James gives us an enlightening glimpse into her creativity, solidifying her status as a talent to watch out for within electronic music today.

So, sit back as we sit down in conversation with the talented producer and composer Lorna James.

1 — Hi, Lorna! Congrats on the release of your album ‘Stratosphere’! How have you been?

Thank you so much! I’ve been busy but I’m great thanks, it’s a pleasure to be here.

2 — We would love to hear your story behind creating this uplifting Ambient album. What’s the inspiration and idea behind arriving at the name ‘Stratosphere’?

I have to admit that the name ‘Stratosphere’ didn’t come from me. I spent a long time mulling over the right name for it and asked a great friend of mine – the best wordsmith I know. I described what I wanted to convey, he thought for a minute, and just said ‘Stratosphere!’

3 — What are your favourite moments or tracks on this album?

I think my answer to that changes depending on my mood. I really love “Ancestral Journey,” just because it’s the weirdest track I’ve ever made. “Coming Home” is another favourite, as is “Prayer for Peace.”

4 — Is there a narrative you are trying to convey in regards to how you set up the order of the 9 tracks in this album? If so, could you share how that narrative comes into play?

The order was very important; I wanted to start with something in a minor key that was quite ethereal and sad, and then change the mood to more positive, uplifting, and calming moments. The idea behind it was that by the end of the album, the listener feels better / calmer / reassured, and more relaxed than they did before they heard it – it’s the musical equivalent of a cup of tea/glass of wine while sitting on a comfy sofa haha!

5 — Were there musical influences that have shaped the style and tranquil feeling of the album ‘Stratosphere’?

Many of my early musical influences are audible in the album; Jean Michele Jarre, Clannad, Enya, Deep Forest, and Chicane.

6 — Were there new instruments or sounds you included in this album? Any new synth sounds or pads?

I fell in love with the Indian sitar while I was making this album, and I’ve used samples of non-rhythmic sitar in “Ancestral Journey” as well as in “Prayer for Peace.” It’s also a sound that is in my contemporaneous Dance tracks.

7 — How do the tracks in this album compare to your previous releases? How do you structure and layer the unique elements, all the while keeping the melodies bright throughout the tracks?

I am definitely not a minimalist – many of the tracks on the album are designed to envelop you in a sort of cocoon of sound; I like building complex layers of sound which flow together to make something that sounds really big. The other reason I can get away with it is because I have a fantastic engineer who creates clarity and space in the sound.

8 — What about ‘Stratosphere’ would you say defines your sound?

My mission has always been simple – to create as much beautiful music as possible. In terms of a signature sound, I would say it’s complex melodies and corresponding harmonies. I wanted my first album to set a benchmark for all the next projects – whatever genres they’re in. I’m really pleased with this debut and so delighted that it’s been so well received.

9 — What valuable lessons have you gained from producing this 9-track album?

I’ve become much more confident in trusting my own ear, but also there are no rules, and don’t be afraid of not conforming to a particular genre.

10 — How would you describe ‘Stratosphere’ to someone wanting to take a listen for the first time?

It’s a gentle journey into relaxation, with influences taken from around the world.

11 — Do you anticipate any more album releases soon?

I’m working on my Dance album at the moment, and I’ve secured some incredible collaborations, which I cannot wait to share with the world. Watch this space…

With an exciting journey still ahead, we’re looking forward to hearing what direction Lorna James takes us next; sure to navigate through more refreshing and captivating sonic territories, Lorna James remains a talent not to be missed, so be sure to follow her across social media to keep up to date with her future releases, collaborations, and projects. We conclude our interview with Lorna James by thanking her for her time and eagerly encouraging you to dive into the mesmerising energy of her sound by listening now to her debut album, ‘Stratosphere’.

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References

MCPR. (2024). Lorna James – Behind The Scenes Of ‘Stratosphere’ – Interview. Retrieved from [Email communication].