British alt-R&B and UK rap trailblazer Léks Rivers returns with his latest release, the electrifying 3-track EP, Pulp Noir. The release is a vibrant manifesto of freedom, truth, and self-expression—a musical journey designed to inspire listeners to live authentically and embrace their boldest desires.
Let’s dive into the creative process and meaning behind Pulp Noir with Léks Rivers.
- “Pulp Noir” feels like a liberating project. Can you tell us about a specific moment during its creation that truly captured this spirit of freedom?
During pulp noirs production I distinctly remember feeling my music making ability developing, i was more assured in my musicianship my touch on both keys and strings become more adept & my storytelling more unbound as if I could draw from any experience and paint the picture of it and know it would connect. To create the vibe and atmosphere when I wrote Pulp I kept asking myself one question what happens if two souls just as hedonistic as each other collide?
- You’ve cited Jimi Hendrix, Prince, and Michael Jackson as inspirations. How did their influence shape the sound and storytelling of “Pulp Noir”?
The fearlessness of these icons was what I gravitated towards I’ve always felt different as if I could conquer the world if I perform to my own personal standards of excellence, I think that trait runs through the veins of all those artists and I find it truly inspiring. I’m such a huge fan of the greats because what’s hard to do seems most worth doing.
- The EP is described as an ‘instruction manual on love’. What’s the biggest lesson you hope listeners take from it?
I hope listeners take away from this project a feeling of comfort within risk, I want people to know that leaps of faith further your progress rather than fearing the unknown you should embrace it and be excited for the unpredictability of life.
- Your music blends grime, Afroswing, alt-R&B, and more. What’s your process for balancing such diverse influences while staying cohesive?
I’m probably the glue because those genres all come so naturally to me I take the little colourings flourishes and details from each which compliment each other well and figure out the jigsaw which every great song is, a puzzle to be pieced together. The story ultimately being a therapeutic moment in time for the listener that they can return to when they wish.
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