Emerging from D.C.’s vibrant indie scene, Aidan Leclaire bring’s a raw, introspective sound that defies musical boundaries. Drawing inspiration from Alex G, The Strokes, and Modest Mouse, Leclaire crafts a unique blend of lo-fi indie rock, punk energy, and bedroom pop intimacy.
Joined by his band, their latest single ‘Find Me’ explores human disconnection in an overly connected world. Recorded at DC’s Ivakota Studio, the song captures a melancholic grunginess punctuated by an infectious hook and moments of stark emotional clarity.
“The inspiration behind Find Me was this girl I met at a party,” Leclaire reveals. “She felt that everybody in her life hated her and that if she ever went missing, nobody would notice. That idea of being seen and seeking the validation of others was something that really fascinated me.“
Formed in 2023, Aidan Leclaire has quickly become a promising force in the indie landscape, blending indie-rock, folk, and pop with unflinching authenticity. Following the release of their latest single, we sat down with Leclaire to find out the inspirations behind his growing sound.
What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
I first fell in love with the ukulele. I love how small and easy it was to transport. The fact
that there are only four strings meant that it was very easy to learn. I also really love the
sound it made. It has a very earthy tone and carries a very cheerful sound. It just an
extremely fun instrument to play.
What was the first band or artist you enjoyed when you were younger?
Growing up I was massively into the Arctic Monkeys. When I was six, a family friend
showed me their first album and I was completely in love with their sound. It was so raw
and different and the lyrics were so imaginative and painted such an amazing picture of
being young at that time.
What was the first album you remember owning?
One of the first albums I remember having was They Might Be Giants “Mink Car” The
songs from that album were so different from each other and the album itself had so
many different textures that it kept you engaged throughout the entirety of the album.
What is the one song you wished you could have written yourself?
Lou Reed’s Walk on the Wild Side
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the
moment?
Right now I’m listening to a lot of Alex G, Big Thief, Merchant Ships, and Fontaines DC
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
I recently played a show at my hometown music venue Jammin Java and it was such a
surreal moment. I had my first guitar lesson at the music school in Jammin Java when I
was 11 years old. To come back years later and play a show in front of a lot friends and
family was such an amazing feeling and one I will never forget.
Which artist would you most love to share the stage with?
Brittany Howard of the Alabama Shakes
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
King Krule
What do you find is the most rewarding part about being a musician?
Being able to share my thoughts, feelings, fears, experiences, etc. in a certain medium
that hopefully resonates with people. It is very therapeutic and allows me to make better
sense of the world by playing music.
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
I had a guitar teacher who always stressed the importance of continuous improvement
regardless of experience. Always continue to hone your skills and to always stay
adaptable.
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Listen to ‘Find Me’ across all major streaming platforms now
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