This Former Physics Teacher Recorded an Album of Folky Songs Inspired by Sonar
On Echolocationism, Ben Labat, who once led the alt-rock band the Terms, looks to marine-life navigation for musical ideas: "It’s really about finding that new path"
Ben Labat's journey from a physics teacher to a musician is a fascinating one, and his latest project, Echolocationism, is a testament to his eclectic interests. As a former member of the alt-rock band the Terms, Labat has always had a musical foundation, but his foray into folky songs inspired by sonar is a new direction that showcases his creative exploration. By drawing from the concept of echolocation, which is used by marine life to navigate, Labat is able to craft songs that are both introspective and innovative.
The album's themes of navigation and finding new paths are reflective of Labat's own personal journey, and the music itself is a fitting representation of this. The folky soundscapes and acoustic instrumentation evoke a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, while also conveying a sense of experimentation and risk-taking. In an industry where artists are constantly looking for new ways to express themselves, Labat's use of sonar as a creative inspiration is a refreshing example of thinking outside the box.
As the music industry continues to evolve, it's exciting to see artists like Labat pushing the boundaries of what's possible. With Echolocationism, Labat has created a unique and captivating album that showcases his talents as a singer-songwriter. What's next for Labat is anyone's guess, but if he continues to draw from his diverse influences and interests, we can expect to see even more innovative and exciting work from him in the future. Fans of artists like Bon Iver and Sufjan Stevens may want to keep an ear out for Labat's next move.
Originally reported by rollingstone.com. MusicNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.