‘Chasing Zeniths’ Carl Kernie Talks Music and Inspiration
Photo: Zak Chowdhury
When it comes to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in music, composer Carl Kernie shines in his new project, Chasing Zeniths. "Epochs Changing", the debut, will be released on November 22nd.
Kernie, known for his multifaceted talents as both a musician and author, has assembled an all-star cast of renowned metal and symphonic artists to help bring his grand musical vision to life. The 10-track album features breathtaking performances from the likes of former Delain members Timo Somers and Charlotte Wessels, Eluveitie/Cellar Darling's Anna Murphy, Vicky Psarakis from Sicksense, and more.
The new album is a sweeping, genre-defying effort that seamlessly blends symphonic, folk, prog rock, and metal influences into a cohesive, immersive listening experience. Kernie's compositions take the listener on a journey through revelatory moments of his life, which seems to be the base inspiration of the music- to tell the beautiful story of being human.
"When we challenge ourselves to grow beyond our expectations, we truly learn who we are and what we might be capable of achieving," Kernie muses. And that sentiment is palpable throughout the album, as each track showcases Kernie's ambition to reshape the way people think about the boundaries between musical genres.
How did the idea for Epochs Changing come about, and what inspired its inception?
Chasing Zeniths is about always reaching for the next goal, about improving yourself, and always striving to learn and grow, never stagnating or getting too comfortable. It's about never giving up. The album Epochs Changing was inspired by moments from my personal life and experiences that I took great value from. Whether they made me a better artist or a better person, they echo the leaps and stumbles I took along the way. Obviously, there are commonalities in our shared life experiences, so it's my hope that others might find reason to reflect on their own path and find similar connections and meanings as they listen to the songs. The imagery of the cover suggests that while you might be caught in the throes of a terrible experience, you can work your way through it and find better tomorrows right on the horizon before you. Since it's the whole of our experiences that weaves the tapestry of our life, the title track is an instrumental composed of elements taken from all the other songs.
What was the collaboration process like with the guest musicians, considering their diverse backgrounds and styles?
I have enjoyed going to concerts since I was very young and have made the acquaintance of so many outstanding musicians over the years and from all over the world. I am fortunate to call many of them my friends. Every one of them is a consummate professional musician, careful and meticulous and entirely passionate about the quality of what they do, so working together was easy and really rewarding. Usually when I write songs, I have a particular voice or playing style in mind that helps me focus and shape the finished product. Since I compose music with many different instruments and voices, it's that very diversity that is critical to capture if the song is to properly come to life and tell its story. It was then a matter of reaching out to determine if interest and schedules and creative vision would all connect. I am honored and elated that so many of my friends wanted to share these first steps with me while offering their talents to Epochs Changing.
Is there anyone who's influenced the making of this album the most?
My music influences come from many different directions. I grew up a fan of classic prog rock and metal, symphonic metal, and synth rock, but I also like classical music, orchestra, movie and video game scores, and all manner of jazz. Even if I don't personally like something I hear, I can still find intrinsic value in experiencing the creativity of it all. When I write, I let the songs take me where they want to go rather than trying to force them into a certain style or voice. So, it was really the songs and the stories they wanted to tell that influenced the making of this album the most.
What can fans expect from Chasing Zeniths in the future, in terms of new music or other creative endeavors?
Epochs Changing will be out on November 22, and we are already working on music for a second album! I would be honored to work with any of the guest musicians on this record again, and I'm always interested in new sounds and styles to showcase the diversity of Chasing Zeniths. As the songs continue to take shape, I will better understand what styles and voices would be best to bring them to life. To be sure, fans of Chasing Zeniths can look forward to extraordinary collaborations on the next record, as well!
"Epochs Changing" is an achievement that highlights Kernie's skills as both a composer and collaborator. By tapping into the talents of some of metal and symphonic rock's most renowned musicians, he's created a sprawling, immersive sonic landscape that demands repeated listens. Keep a close eye on this rising creative force. Take a look at the music video for Yesterday’s Outsider below; it was our favorite on the official Youtube channel.
Credits:
Music composition and lyrics by Carl Kernie and produced at Entelechy Sound in Spokane, WA.
Mixing and mastering: Tom Müller, Flatliners Recording Studios in Ingolstadt, Germany.
Guitars: Timo Somers
Bass: Roman Engen
Clarinet: Charlotte Wessels
Nyckelharpa: Emilia Amper
Hurdy Gurdy: Anna Murphy
Spoken words: Bríet Kristiansen
Info courtesy of courtesy of The Metallist PR
