A Ripple Conversation With Non Talkers

Name of your band: Non Talkers What have been your musical epiphany moments?

Our musical epiphany moments have come in various forms over the years. One such moment was when we realized the power of storytelling through music. It was a revelation to see how our personal experiences and emotions could be transformed into songs that others could relate to and find comfort in. Another significant epiphany was understanding the importance of authenticity in our music. Realizing that staying true to ourselves and our artistic vision resonates more deeply with our audience was a pivotal moment in our journey.

Talk to us about the song-writing process for you. What comes first, the idea? A riff? The lyrics? How does it all fall into place?

Our songwriting process usually begins with a spark of inspiration, which can come from a variety of sources. Often, I start with a melody or a guitar riff that sets the mood. From there, the lyrics begin to take shape, usually inspired by our personal experiences or emotions. We focus on crafting a narrative that not only fits the melody but also tells a compelling story. The process is very collaborative, with each of us adding our own touches to refine the song. It's like putting together a puzzle, where each piece - be it a chord progression, a lyrical phrase, or a melody - has to fit perfectly to create a harmonious and impactful final piece.

Who has influenced you the most?

Our most significant influences are a blend of classic and contemporary artists. Growing up, we were deeply inspired by the likes of U2, The Beatles, and Elvis Presley, whose music has a timeless quality and emotional depth. In recent years, we've also drawn inspiration from modern artists such as The Lumineers and Lewis Capaldi, who bring a fresh perspective to songwriting and storytelling. These influences have shaped our approach to music, blending classic sensibilities with contemporary styles.

Where do you look for continuing inspiration? New ideas, new motivation?

For continuing inspiration, we often turn to everyday life experiences, the world around us, and the emotions they evoke. Nature, travel, and personal relationships often provide a wealth of ideas and new perspectives. We also find motivation in other art forms, such as literature, visual arts, and films, which can offer fresh viewpoints and spark creativity. Additionally, listening to a wide range of music, including new releases and different genres, helps us stay inspired and open to evolving our own sound.

We're all a product of our environment. Tell us about the band's hometown and how that reflects in the music?

Our band's music is shaped by a blend of diverse experiences and environments. Evita, hailing from Belgium, and I, Marco, from the north of Portugal, bring a mix of cultural influences to our music. Our love for British and American music also plays a significant role in our sound. The various places we've lived in and traveled to have enriched our music with different perspectives. Currently, we reside in a serene and picturesque area, which offers a tranquil backdrop for creativity and introspection, allowing us to draw inspiration from the peacefulness and beauty surrounding us.

Where'd the band name come from?

The band name "Non Talkers" originated from a personal trait and an artistic concept. It reflects our preference for expressing ourselves more through music and art than through spoken words. The name symbolizes our belief that sometimes emotions and stories are best conveyed through melodies and lyrics, rather than direct conversation. This name encapsulates our approach to music as a form of profound communication that goes beyond spoken language, resonating with listeners on an emotional and experiential level.

You have one chance, what movie are you going to write the soundtrack for?

If given one chance to write a soundtrack for a movie, I would choose "The Shawshank Redemption." The film's profound storytelling, rich character development, and themes of hope, resilience, and redemption resonate deeply with the kind of emotive and narrative-driven music we create. Crafting a soundtrack for such an iconic and emotionally powerful film would be an incredible opportunity to blend our musical style with the movie's enduring legacy

You now write for a music publication (The Ripple Effect?).You're going to write a 1,000 word essay on one song. Which would it be and why?

If I were to write a 1,000-word essay for The Ripple Effect on one song, I would choose Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone." This song is not only a masterpiece of lyricism and musicality but also a significant cultural and historical artifact. It marked a pivotal moment in Dylan's career and in the 1960s music scene. The song's narrative, its poetic depth, and its impact on music and society offer a wealth of material to explore, from the lyrical content and Dylan's artistic evolution to its influence on the folk and rock genres. Analyzing "Like a Rolling Stone" would provide a deep dive into one of the most iconic songs in music history.

Come on, share with us a couple of your great, Spinal Tap, rock and roll moments?

During one of our live performances, there was a moment that turned into a real 'Spinal Tap' scene. As we transitioned to a more upbeat song, I, Marco, stood up to get into the groove. Evita, in an effort to give me more space, helpfully pulled the chair away. However, near the end of the song, I instinctively went to sit back down, forgetting the chair was no longer there, and ended up falling onto the stage. Despite Evita breaking into laughter, I managed to keep playing and entertaining the audience, turning an accidental fall into a memorable and amusing part of our show.

Tell us about playing live and the live experience for you and for your fans?

Playing live is an exhilarating experience for both us and our fans. There's a unique energy exchange that happens during live performances, creating a special connection. For us, it's about bringing our music to life in a way that resonates with the audience, sharing the emotions and stories behind our songs. For our fans, it's an opportunity to experience our music in a raw and more intimate setting, where they can feel part of the journey. Each live show is a chance to create unforgettable memories and deepen our bond with the audience.

What makes a great song?

What makes a great song? Well, we're still trying to figure that out ourselves! Just kidding. In our experience, a great song first and foremost has to be genuine. It should come from a place of truth and authenticity. Secondly, it needs to create a strong connection with the audience. Whether it's through the melody, lyrics, or the emotion it conveys, the song should resonate deeply with listeners, making them feel something real. That's the magic of a truly great song.

Tell us about the first song you ever wrote?

The first song I ever wrote was in collaboration with a friend, at a time when I was still learning to play the guitar. The song was titled "Why am I then so sad?" Looking back, I still regard it as a great song. Its strength lies in its authenticity-it came from a genuine place, reflecting our emotions and thoughts at the time. It was a formative experience in songwriting, setting the tone for my approach to music in the years that followed.

What piece of your music are particularly proud of?

We are particularly proud of our last album "Roots." This album holds a special place for us because we were deeply involved in its production. Working alongside the sound engineer Paulo Baixinho, we were able to capture the essence and spirit of our music. It feels like a true representation of who we are as artists. The process of creating "Roots" was both challenging and fulfilling, and it's rewarding to see how it resonates with our audience.

Who today, writes great songs? Who just kicks your ass? Why?

Artists like Jack Savoretti, Kodaline, Lewis Capaldi, The Lumineers, and The Banners are currently writing fantastic songs that really resonate with us. Their ability to craft music that's not only melodically captivating but also rich in emotional depth and storytelling is impressive. They have a way of connecting with listeners through their lyrics and melodies, creating songs that are both relatable and moving. Their work is a constant source of inspiration and a reminder of the power of great songwriting.

Vinyl, CD, or digital? What's your format of choice?

Our format of choice really depends on the music itself. We appreciate all formats - vinyl, CD, and digital - as each has its own charm and utility. The most important factor for us is the quality of the music. Whether it's the warm, rich sound of vinyl, the clarity of a CD, or the convenience and accessibility of digital formats, as long as the music is good, we're happy.

Whiskey or beer?And defend your choice

We'd have to pass on both whiskey and beer, as we're more inclined towards wine. For us, wine resonates more with our tastes and preferences. Its variety, the subtlety of flavors, and the way it pairs with different cuisines make it our choice for a relaxing drink. Plus, there's something about the process of wine-making, its history and tradition, that really appeals to us.

We, at the Ripple Effect, are constantly looking for new music. What's your home town, and when we get there, what's the best record store to lose ourselves in?

In our hometown, Viana do Castelo, there aren't many record stores anymore, but one that stands out and resists the digital era is Galáxia Discos. It's a great place for music enthusiasts to explore, offering a range of music genres and records. It's a little haven for those who appreciate the charm of physical music formats and enjoy discovering new and old tunes alike.

What's next for the band?

What's next for us as the Non Talkers is a continued journey of musical exploration and connection with our audience. We're focusing on creating new music that further defines our unique sound and storytelling. Alongside this, we plan to engage with our fans through more live performances and interactive online content. Our aim is to deepen the experience we share with our listeners, both through our music and the moments we create together.

Any final comments or thoughts you'd like to share with our readers, the waveriders?

To all the waveriders out there, we just want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your support and enthusiasm for our music. It's your passion and engagement that inspire us to keep creating and exploring new musical territories. We're excited for what the future holds and can't wait to share more of our journey with you. Stay tuned for new music, shows, and adventures from the Non Talkers. Thanks for riding the waves with us!