Independent music is broad, unlike the dying term of ‘alternative’ which has unfortunately fallen into a downward never ending spiral of arguments over who is right to be classified as alternative, or the distinctive sound that imprisons an artist to the wretched label. To some, alternative means as obscure as Tom Waits, or as far out as King Crimson, and to others they think it means Coldplay... Indie music is only similar in the sense that it means something different to everyone, it’s such a broad spectrum among musical culture, so you decide.
Independent Renaissance Man
“I think sound is beautiful. Not just music and not just noise but the dynamics of it and the way it works. The way it travels, the way it makes us feel and remember...” Says Liam Pek a twenty year old, independent Netherland born artist, expecting the release of his first initial album within the remaining part of 2016. Pek is working his way up to be a unique voice within the universal underground independent music scene, influenced by figures such as Elliott Smith, The Beach Boys, Jeff Buckley, and classic rock figures such as Led Zeppelin, and of course The Beatles. From escaping the monotone post rock depression of washed out pop, Pek tests the waters of psychedelic, surreal, and brings back elements of Brit rock. What’s truly mesmerizing about Pek’s uncharacterized sound is the unity between vocals and hypnotic harmonies from raw ambience to his multi instrumental allure. A true renaissance man among many of the next generation, Pek’s particular sense of artistic individuality is magnetic within the sense that it sounds so familiar while keeping a firm possession on originality. The selfhood correlated with being an independent artist in the rapid music scene doesn’t baffle the enthusiasm that Pek holds towards his craft. Though facing the struggle of being a young and uprising character within the underground indie movement, Pek is bold, and embraces the grit as it strengthens his spirit and builds his courage within a persona of undeniable uniqueness. On behalf of his gift Pek shrugs and asserts with honesty, “I don’t really want to change the world or anything like that. That’s not my journey. All I want is for people to hear me and think something. Just think or feel something.”
An Independent Embrace on The Mainstream
With pageant pride, Pek doesn’t stand down from his determination to speak among the many voices howling towards nothing but success. As a young and strong artist within his will, along side his musical dexterity and ultimate harmonic precision, Pek puts the number one in the “one man band.” Evident on surrealist single tracks such as “Take It Like The Summer Takes The Rainn” and “Mystic Land” withhold a certain charm that blends the kalidescope of reality within self indulging fantasy, carried on the silver tongue of Pek’s blissful image created purely by the element of sound. Other notable songs such as “Deep In The Morning” and “What Matters” are blissful within their principle of externalizing individuality, and apparition of organic charisma. He states honestly, “I wasn’t planning to become a solo artist actually. I always saw myself being a part of a band... maybe one day haha... All I want is to make people feel something different from what they feel in their daily routine.” Despite the independent movement emerging on the scene, Pek admits there’s still a struggle for being a young artist in such a competitive field of artistic merit. “In my country it’s like being in a big room filled with fire and everyone’s just trying to get above it. I see so many talented people not getting anywhere and getting used up by people with power... I honestly don’t know how things will play out for me.” Embracing the mainstream movement and it’s power doesn’t seem to bring Pek down to a breaking point, as he carries on with his own journey to bring his music to those willing to listen. His undying passion for music is enlightening, and inspirational and shows through his work that he’s more than capable, and ready to move into a much bigger future, fulfilling his career as a growing figure in the fast moving musical culture as multitalented musician
The Indie Revolution
So what does this mean for the culture of music? As it’s ever growing and rapid on the trails for change, shock, and uniting people within it’s power, theres no other way to look upon the indie scene other than with empowering encouragement and praise. Praise within it’s content, within the value of secure production, within the personal attachment when it’s released to an audience. This new generation is looking upon the beginnings of the ‘Indie Revolution’, from new and upcoming artists like Liam Pek to many more reaching out to share their talent with the listening ears of the world. There’s no doubt that one day Pek will make his way onto the broadway of fame, his journey down the road of ultimate success awaits eagerly among those hungry to hear. Unknowing fans are out there, Pek’s already embraced the music scene under his heels as he treads among the culture in which he enhances. So, in the end to conclude the question that remains is simple, who will you discover
WW