March 28, 2024
Rob is a multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, and producer. He is an established composer spanning a variety of bands, and solo projects.  While Rob’s songs are rooted in rock, his approach to songwriting often incorporates other styles that create something both unique and authentic.  We had the pleasure of speaking to him about his music and what the future holds.

 

Rob, thank you for agreeing to this interview with Occhi Magazine. Congratulations on your career to date. If you weren’t an artist, what would you be and why?

 

Thanks for the kind words and for having me. I appreciate it. If I wasn’t an artist I think I’d be a video/audio editor of some kind. I really enjoy learning that software and figuring out what can be accomplished with those tools. If I wasn’t doing what I currently am, I would definitely be leaning into that a lot further for sure. 

 

How did you get into music?

Music’s always been a part of my life. It was always present as far back as I can recall. Various styles, but always present. Consistently having it in the background and over time associating songs with memories or events. I think that’s what really put the foundation in place for how I got into music. As I got older the want for picking up an instrument and starting to learn, just seemed like a natural progression for me.

Who have been your industry influences?

That’s a good question. I don’t know if there is really a specific influence. I respect people/artists in the industry who are able to manage a balance of longevity and respectability towards their supporters. Those who are able to build a catalog of meaningful releases, grow and evolve as artists, and maintain a passion for music and performing live.

Please tell us more about your latest project.

My latest project is an EP titled Isolation. The songs were written by me, and I did the majority of the production on the album. I would write and then record the parts for each song (Lyrics, Vocals, Backing Vocals, Rhythm/Lead Guitar, Bass, & Drums). Once that was done it was sent to Matt Doherty in Sudbury Ontario. Matt added in Lead Guitar on 4 of the 5 tracks, and also added Backing Vocals on one song. He also Mixed the EP. Once Matt and I were happy with the mixes it went over to John Harris at Rock Metal Studios in Edmonton Alberta, for mastering. It was great to work with and have both of those individuals involved. They are incredible talents and anytime you get to work with people like that, your project is always better off for it. The songs themselves range in style from upbeat rock to mid-tempo alternative, and acoustically driven tracks. Thematically the songs went together very well. I felt lyrically they all directly or indirectly apply to what a lot of people have (and continue to) been feeling throughout this pandemic.

What has been your biggest challenge as an artist and how do you overcome it?

I think the main challenge is just adapting and navigating the music landscape as it continues to change and evolve. Technological advancements have helped in that it offers more avenues to artists to gain exposure and be heard. It is also a challenge because those avenues are often very cluttered. It makes it easy to get lost or overlooked. I think the best thing any artist can do is focus on how you are going to stand out within that environment. It’s easier said than done for sure. There are pros and cons to how the music industry has been modified by technological advancements. It’s the artist’s responsibility to try and utilize those tools and avenues to have the most impact and gain exposure.

Who would you love to collaborate with and why?

There are a few people with who I would absolutely want to collaborate given the opportunity. John Fogerty is one of them. The melodies and timelessness of those songs and the way that generations of people continue to connect with them is very inspiring. To be able to collaborate with someone like that would be a learning opportunity and privilege.

Can you share any information on other projects in the pipeline?

2021 will absolutely provide new music. There are a few different projects in the works for 2021, to be honest. That being said COVID can alter even the best-laid plans. Regardless, there will be new music, and hopefully a few surprises sooner than later. I’m looking forward to having this new material see the light of day.

Where can our readers find out more about you and your projects?

All news, updates, video, purchase, streaming, social, merch, and contact info can be found at http://robfrank.ca

Links:

Images, courtesy of  Rob Frank. Album Cover by Daniela Camacho.

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