Sacramento by way of Elk Grove, California’s Damien Verrett has quite the music project under the moniker So Much Light. As of right now, he’s gaining crazy momentum in the aftermath of his first EP, Idiot Soul. He’s kicked it all up a notch with his new track “Bad News”, which we have for you to take a listen to. Right now.
Singer-songwriter VIVIAN joins him on this mid-tempo, vibey pop song, as they display their wide range vocals woven into the most beautiful melody we’ve heard in a long time. Slight transitional quirks in the composition draw the listener in, making this the perfect song to get you through the rest of the cold winter months.
We got to ask the man behind the magic some questions. Check out our interview below!
What was the first song/record you remember hearing, and who introduced it to you?
The earliest song I can remember being really obsessed with was this lullaby version of “In My Room” by The Beach Boys that my mom used to play for me when I was probably 3 or 4. I wish I could find the cassette it was on or remember who did the cover. Listening to the original version now I love how the lyrics frame solitude as a peaceful, comforting experience. I think I’ve always felt safe in my personal spaces and alone time.
What made you pursue music?
My dad has been involved with music his whole life, so growing up there were always instruments around. I think it was inevitable that eventually I’d pick up one of his guitars and start playing.
What’s the official origin story of So Much Light?
I grew up playing in a band with my best friends. We toured for a number of years and got a following together. We built things to the point where we could expect a decent crowd if we were smart about routing tours. But when you’re in a band with your best friends and you’re writing songs, that process is always somewhat democratic. I needed an outlet where I could express myself lyrically and musically with absolute authority. That’s when I started So Much Light. For me, So Much Light is the project that serves as the most direct channeling of my inner thoughts and feelings.
Your track “Bad News” is actually kind of ethereal in its composition. How would you classify its genre-blending sound?
I like to pull from old video games as inspiration for my sound design and composition. The intro riser in “Bad News” reminds me of the Fairy Fountain from Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The fact that I spent hours (either willfully or otherwise) listening to the 3 and 4 minute background tracks loop in certain levels must have done a lot to influence my musical subconscious. I like to imagine Bad News is like a sexy version of the Zora’s Domain song from Legend of Zelda.
What inspired that track?
I started writing this song towards the end of a relationship. I was looking for break-up songs and wishing I could find something to listen to that was more reflective of my feelings. I was sad and confused, but I also understood that going forward I still wanted this person in my life and that in order to make that happen I needed to end things in a place of understanding rather than bitterness. Getting VIVIAN on the track was a no-brainer. I feel like she views the world through a clearer lens than mine and I needed her perspective to help make the track feel balanced. Plus, her voice is killer. I think nowadays it’s important for men to look to the women in their lives to check and balance their perspectives.
How do you imagine people enjoying this song, specifically?
It’s a little earlier in the year for this, but I imagine “Bad News” as a really good “lounging by the pool” song. The track evokes images of cool blue water and sunglasses for me.
Any crazy fan stories you’d like to share?
Something I’ll never forget is the first time I saw somebody with a tattoo of my old band’s album artwork. It blew my mind that something I had created could mean so much to someone that they wanted to wear it on their skin for the rest of their life.
What’s up next for you?
I can feel it— 2017 is going to be a big year! Tours, and new tunes and tunes and tours. Can’t wait.
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Keep up with So Much Light here.
