The musician’s new single “Thank You” is a fantastic, dreamy alt-rock stunner
Are the dreary winter days upon the avid listener? Well, fans will be the judge of that as one musician, hailing from the Netherlands yet based in the U.K., who seems to be keeping it alive for a little bit more. Within the dreamy alt-rock scene, Dutch Mustard (Sarah-Jayne Riedel) proves that an artist can do it all. Her skills as a songwriter, producer and performer give her a profound sense of ownership of her sound. Case in point, just listen to her fresh single, “Thank You”, via DM Records.
A nice riff followed by a quick beat allows Dutch Mustard’s vocals to seep in from the onset of “Thank You.” It truly is a dream sequence of a song that is soft yet profound. While the listener is indeed comforted in this spectral soundscape, it makes sure to leave a lasting impression. Dutch Mustard’s current is wandering with a purpose, with surprises along the way. Listeners are gifted unfamiliar tidbits of breaks that support her vision of sound. It is a solid track with a solid backing for the season.
She also provided her full in-depth approach to her work and methodology.
You do a lot of writing and production in house along with performing. Which part do you enjoy more and why? Is there a process that sticks with you?
From a young age, I’ve immersed myself in the world of music, performing live and writing songs to express myself. Once I started setting foot in more recording studios, and later becoming an engineer, I naturally gravitated towards production—it goes hand in hand with songwriting. Choosing a favorite among writing, producing, and performing is nearly impossible, as each element uniquely shapes me as an artist.
Production has become a playground for my creativity. I love the world of sound, the way a song begins to blossom as I layer instruments and textures. It’s a magical process—once I’ve put together a musical loop that resonates with my emotions, the song practically writes itself. My vocal melodies and lyrics often come from that initial spark, reflecting the mood of the moment, or from a situation that’s happened in my life, that I’ve started to understand or process.
Yet, nothing compares to the thrill of performing live. The energy of the crowd and the intimate connection we share is such a special experience, every time. It’s in those moments that I truly feel alive. Overall, there isn’t currently a set process to the creation of my music. It can come from a bass line, a drum beat, a synth line/guitar part or vocal melody. Whichever one it is, when it grabs me, it’s got me hooked… The rest of the song quickly follows…
What aspirations as far as music building do you have for the future? Is it more collaborations or solitary work?
Looking ahead, I can feel the energy building toward a pivotal moment in my career—my first album. After years of creating demos, it’s lovely to see everything coming together. I’m toying with the idea of releasing a single next year, as I have a track ready that I think will really connect with listeners…The real focus will be on diving deep to finish the album. I’ve been in touch with some incredible writers about potential collaborations, and I’m particularly excited about a song I started working on with William Doyle—I truly hope it makes it onto the album!
Collaboration is something I cherish, as it brings fresh perspectives and energy to the creation process. That said, I’m also completely open to putting in the hard work on my own. Whether it’s through teamwork or solitary reflection, I’m dedicated to crafting an album that I can genuinely be proud of – and hope that it will make audiences feel like they are part of something new and exciting.
Who are some musicians that you think are worth listening to and why?
This is a tough one, as there are so many incredible artists out there, so many genres and songs that excite me. Currently I have Thom Yorke on repeat, an older album called The Eraser. [I’ve been] also listening to a track called “Future Starts Slow” by The Kills. The guitars and general production do it for me. Great guitar hook too. There is an artist called Nilüfer Yanya, I’m pretty sure she just released an album. Her track “Like I Say (I runaway)” is one I’ve had on repeat for two months I think, love it. If you haven’t heard it, then now is the time.
I’ve also been listening to an all time favorite of mine, Jeff Buckley’s album Grace. One of the most beautiful albums ever made in my opinion. Not sure if it’s the change in weather bringing it back for me, but every time I listen to this album, I feel so alive.
I also love William Doyle’s album that came out this year called Springs Eternal – I adore the production and songwriting. Which leads me on to Orlando Weeks (as they work together from time to time). Orlando brought out a new album too which has the song “Dig” on it. Orlando came and did a live session of the song last year at the studio where I work (Crouch End Studios) – and I fell in love with the track then. Hearing the finished version this year was so cool, love it.
The pop side of me definitely had a BRAT summer though, and I also love Mura Masa’s new tracks; “We Are Making Out” and “FLY”.
St. Vincent is another artist who I adore. “Broken Man” from her latest album is amazing. Always listening to TV On The Radio too. [I am] also very much enjoying The Dare and Fcukers.
What plans do you have for this autumn? Is there a tradition you like to participate in?
Some plans for this autumn have already happened! We played our two headline shows this year, at The Shacklewell Arms in London, and The Lanes in Bristol, in September and October. Both were incredible shows and the crowds were insane, I loved everything. The band and I have been putting in the work, so it really feels like it’s all coming together, making the shows super fun and solid.
We recorded a live session at University of Hertfordshire with Propeller Music, of four tracks, “Loser”, “Feel Everything”, “Beauty” and the latest single “Thank You,” which comes out on Youtube in November! I can’t wait to share it.
Other than that, I think I’m going to have to try to catch my breath, and enjoy some autumn/winter walks and spend time with family. The most traditional thing will be ice skating on boxing day! Dad and I do it every year, and we always try to bring the rest of the family along.
I’ve got two festivals already booked for next year. Ice Breaker Festival in South Sea, UK and The New Colossus Festival in NYC – so I’ve gotta start prepping for these! I’ll also be working on new material though, as always.
What advice would you share to musicians just entering the space that you wish you had known before stepping into it all?
My advice to musicians entering the world of music would be to drop the pressure. The most important thing in art is to express yourself, and be authentic. This takes time. It’s not about rushing releases or doing what everyone else is doing.
If the music means something and is good, success will follow, and if it doesn’t that’s ok too, because at least you’re doing your best to create something and adding to current art and music culture You have to learn why you’re making music. As soon as you learn this, the process will become beautiful and fun. Don’t get me wrong, I still feel the pressure from time to time, but then I pull myself back into reality and remind myself that the fact that I’m even able to make music is so special. Treasure that feeling, and be free, authentic, and love what you do. This way others will feel that the music is coming from a real place, and that’s when a community starts to form. Be real and be you!
