IDLE IRiS

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY:

As some of you may remember, last year I (Melissa) made a commitment to donate 100% of my streaming royalties to charities that are close to the hearts of IDLE IRIS' listeners.

I'm pleased to announce that this year, IDLE IRiS earned it's first £50, which has now been donated to Palestine Children's Relief Fund. This money will help support a number of humanitarian needs, programs, and projects, including those for sick and injured children in the Middle East, regardless of their religion and without political affiliation or purpose.

Bad Intentions was the first song I released as IDLE IRiS, and I'm often asked what the meaning behind the song is.

It's about being able to look in the mirror to see who we really are with TOTAL honesty; no distortions. Its about connecting with our highest selves. It's about discarding anything we know in our souls we are not.

It represents the dismantlement of oppressive regimes which have been built outside of our purest and natural state; love.

It symbolises harnessing the unlimited power of the creator that sleeps in every one of us, and using it for good, not evil.

"Be careful of our cruel inventions, they go straight to our brains"

But most of all...

It's a love letter to the world. A request to be the change we wish to see.

Thank you to everyone for streaming IDLE IRiS. Together we will make a difference.

Anyways...
What are you waiting for?

GET THE F**K OUT!!!! 🪧👥

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC:

We absolutely love Metric because we find their music to be truly captivating. Every album feels like an awesome experiment because they're never afraid to push the boundaries and try out new sounds. I find there is always an album for every mood. I discovered them in my final years of high school through the Scott Pilgrim soundtrack and they've stuck with me ever since. Each member of the band brings their unique talents to create a sound that's both emotionally charged and sonically innovative.

Emily Haines' powerful yet emotive vocals resonate with me, and her lyrics are nothing short of poetic. She brings a distinctive edge to their music. I'd love to meet her one day; to pick her brain and see how she approaches her writing process.

James Shaw's guitar work is exceptional. His ability to craft intricate and memorable riffs adds fantastic dynamics to their songs. I went to see them live a couple years ago and I was lucky enough to be stood right in front of his guitar speakers. He absolutely blew my socks off!!! I started freaking out about being so close to my idols, and in true neurodivergent fashion, started flailing my arms about like a nerd. He noticed me freaking out in the front row and started laughing at me. 😂

Josh Winstead and Joules Scott-Key are the rhythm section that provides a solid backbone to Metric's music. Winstead's basslines and Scott-Key's drumming create a strong and groovy foundation that works so deliciously with their electro-rock sound. 🤩

Their combined talents result in music that's not only infectious but also thought-provoking. The best way to describe their sound is 'a journey through a vivid, electrifying landscape' and it's a constant source of inspiration for me as a musician. They just released their latest album Formentera II, so I'll be smashing that today. 🎶🤘

THANK YOU FOR THE MUSIC:

St. Vincent, the musical project led by Annie Clark, is a source of IMMENSE inspiration for me as well. Her music is a unique blend of intricate guitar work, ethereal vocals, and avant-garde compositions that push the boundaries of conventional genres. James recommended her to me a few years ago, and I've been obsessed since, (he knows me so well). Also, she absolutely OOZES s*x appeal...like... I dont know if I wanna BE her or be UNDER her, in all honestly. Both? 🙊

Annie Clark herself is a FREAKIN' virtuoso guitarist, and her performances are nothing short of ✨️mesmerizing✨️. I went to see her live with James a couple years ago and I STG I had solid eye contact with her for at least a whole minute. I dont think I blinked! She must've thought I was a freak. 😂 Either that, or she knew it was our destiny to be wives one day...💕 I prefer the latter.

Her innovative approach to the instrument and the way she crafts both delicate and ferocious soundscapes are a testament to her exceptional talent. Also, I will never cease to be amazed at her ability to play complicated riffs whilst also singing a completely different melody that fits into a totally different rhythmic structure. That s**t is HARD.

St. Vincent's session members may change from album to album, as Annie Clark is the consistent lead visionary for her project, but each collaborator adds their own magic to the mix. From the intricate drumming to the innovative synth and keyboard work, the band's versatility shines through.

The way St. Vincent seamlessly fuses rock, pop, and experimental elements in her music is a testament to her creativity and downright fearlessness. As a musician, I find her ability to constantly evolve and reinvent her sound to be incredibly motivating. Furthermore, me and producer used Annie's fuzzy and squelchy guitar tone as a point of reference when we first started developing IDLE IRiS. You'll definitely be able to hear her influence in a lot of the tracks we wrote together.

Marry me, Annie? 🥺💕🎸🎤

Got stuck inside the TV again.

When you should be doing uni work but instead you're making a stage and lighting plan with a budget you don't even have yet 😅

https://youtu.be/5ycDWRDCzKc?si=rh8auA0jW-Pgdzgh

IDLE IRiS - Lightyears (Official Lyric Video) Out Now! Stream Lightyears across all major platforms here: https://www.linktr.ee/idleirismusicFollow my official social accounts:Instagram: https://www.inst...

I'm 5ft2 FYI...

Would be great to get some more experience leading creative projects, and tutoring others. DM if you're interested. 😊🖤

'It’s better to be in the arena, getting stomped by the bull, than to be up in the stands or out in the parking lot.' - Steven Pressfield, The War of Art: Winning the Inner Creative Battle

🐈 💙

!!!WARNING!!!
As of today – Facebook will automatically start dragging the Earth into the Sun. To change this option, go to Settings > Planetary Settings > Trajectory, then UNCLICK the box that says “Apocalypse."
Facebook kept this one quiet.

Love him. Even if his breath stinks 😷😬

Let's go!!!! !

IDLE IRiS Presents... a SpaceseX! cover SPACE ODDITY

IDLE IRiS Presents... a SpaceseX! cover SPACE ODDITY 😼🔭🚀 #comingsoon #coversong #davidbowie #SpaceseX #altrock #pop #spaceoddity #majortom

Let's talk about building your first website/EPK!

In the dynamic world of music, establishing a strong online presence is paramount for aspiring musicians and bands. An electronic press kit (EPK) serves as a virtual portfolio, enabling you to showcase your talent, connect with industry professionals, and captivate your audience. In this post, we'll delve into the essential components of a musician's EPK and recommend popular website builders like Wix that can help you create an impressive online showcase.

An EPK acts as your digital calling card, encapsulating crucial information about your musical journey, style, and achievements. Here are the key components that should be part of your musician's EPK:

a) Bio and Background: Craft a concise, engaging biography that highlights your musical influences, experiences, and noteworthy achievements. Convey your unique story and musical identity.

b) Music Samples and Discography: Showcase your best tracks, singles, or albums to demonstrate your musical prowess and style. Include a diverse range of songs that exemplify your versatility and artistry.

c) Performance Footage and Photos: Integrate captivating live performance videos, studio sessions, or music videos to visually engage your audience. Include high-quality promotional photos that reflect your image and stage presence.

d) Press Coverage and Reviews: Highlight any press coverage, reviews, or features that your music has garnered. Display positive quotes, testimonials, or awards that validate your talent and credibility.

e) Gig Schedule and Past Shows: Keep your EPK updated with your upcoming and past performances. Include details such as venue names, dates, and any notable acts you've shared the stage with.

f) Contact Information and Social Media Links: Make it easy for booking agents, labels, or fans to reach out to you. Provide multiple contact options, including email, phone number, and links to your social media profiles.

Wix offers an intuitive platform for musicians to create stunning websites that effectively showcase their musical talent. Here's how you can utilize Wix to build your EPK:

a) Select a Template: Wix offers a wide array of musician-centric templates catering to various genres and styles. Choose a template that complements your music and resonates with your artistic vision.

b) Customize Your Design: Personalize the template by adding your own text, images, videos, and branding elements. Wix's user-friendly editor allows you to create a visually appealing EPK that reflects your unique aesthetic.

c) Organize Your Content: Structure your EPK by creating dedicated sections or pages for your bio, music samples, videos, press coverage, and gig schedule. Ensure seamless navigation and intuitive access to different sections.

d) Embed Media and Streaming Services: Utilize Wix's media integration capabilities to embed music players or playlists, allowing visitors to listen to your tracks directly on your EPK. Link to popular streaming platforms like Spotify or Apple Music to broaden your reach.

e) Mobile Optimization: Optimize your EPK for mobile devices, ensuring that it is responsive and visually appealing across various screen sizes. Wix's mobile optimization features enable your EPK to shine on smartphones and tablets.

f) SEO and Analytics: Enhance your EPK's visibility by implementing relevant keywords and meta tags. Leverage Wix's built-in analytics tools to gain insights into visitor engagement, track traffic, and refine your EPK's performance.

An electronic press kit is an indispensable tool for musicians aiming to make their mark in the music industry. With website builders like Wix, creating a captivating EPK has never been easier. Invest time and effort in constructing a stellar EPK that reflects your musical journey, showcases your talent, and connects you with industry professionals and fans alike. Harness the power of digital platforms to amplify your artistry and propel your music career to new heights.

Note: While Wix is a popular website builder, musicians also have other options like Bandzoogle, Squarespace, or WordPress, each offering unique features tailored to musicians' needs. Explore different platforms to find the one that best aligns with your vision and artistic requirements. ✨️

https://youtu.be/k68RY2w0Xuk

Lightyears is now available to stream. An update on the official lyric video release date will be announced soon! :)

Lightyears Provided to YouTube by TuneCoreLightyears · IDLE IRiSLightyears℗ 2023 IDLE IRiSReleased on: 2023-07-14Auto-generated by YouTube.

True Story!

IDLE IRiS Presents... It's Band Members!

Melissa Ryan - Vocalist and Guitarist
Barney Tabor - Keyboardist and Guitarist
James Allen - Bassist
Ed Evers-Swindell - Drummer

🤘💕

🤘

In the vast realm of creativity, writers often find themselves grappling with an overflow of ideas, unsure of where to focus their efforts. The beauty of writing, however, lies in the ability to delve deep into a specific concept and extract its true essence. By honing in on a singular thing and crafting a body of work around it, writers can unlock a plethora of advantages that extend beyond mere productivity. In this post, I will explore the benefits of embracing a concept-centric approach to writing, allowing us to unearth the gold hidden within a sea of ideas.

Sharpened Focus:

Writing to a concept cultivates a sense of direction and purpose. Instead of juggling multiple ideas simultaneously, writers can channel their energy into exploring one core idea. This focused approach provides clarity, allowing for a deeper understanding and exploration of the chosen concept. By eliminating the distractions of an endless list of ideas, writers can invest their creative energy in crafting a more coherent and impactful body of work.

Enhanced Depth and Nuance:

Dedicating oneself to a concept enables a comprehensive exploration of its various facets. Writers can delve into the intricacies, complexities, and subtleties that surround the chosen theme. As they continue to work on their body of work, they gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter, resulting in more nuanced and layered writing. By immersing themselves in a concept, writers can unveil fresh perspectives and untapped insights, elevating the quality of their work.

Cohesion and Consistency:

Creating a body of work centered around a specific concept fosters a sense of cohesion and consistency. Each piece contributes to a larger narrative or theme, creating a cohesive whole that resonates with readers. This thematic unity helps to establish an emotional connection, as readers become invested in the exploration and development of the concept across different works. Moreover, a consistent body of work strengthens an artist's brand and identity, distinguishing them in the crowded musical landscape.

Deeper Exploration and Research:

By focusing on a single concept, writers have the opportunity to embark on a deeper journey of exploration and research. As they dig into the subject matter, they uncover a wealth of knowledge, anecdotes, and real-life examples that can enrich their writing. The process of researching and immersing oneself in the concept not only enhances the quality of the work but also expands the writer's own understanding and expertise in the chosen field. This newfound knowledge can extend beyond the body of work, benefiting future projects and personal growth.

Greater Impact and Meaning:

A body of work grounded in a concept holds the potential to make a lasting impact on consumers. By dedicating time and effort to develop a deep understanding of the theme, writers can craft narratives that resonate with universal human experiences. This resonance creates a profound connection between the writer and the audience, evoking emotions, challenging beliefs, or sparking introspection. By focusing on a singular concept, writers can touch the hearts and minds of their listeners, leaving a lasting impression.

In a world inundated with ideas, the advantages of writing a body of work to a concept cannot be overstated. The sharpened focus, enhanced depth, and cohesive nature of such an approach yields exceptional results. By embracing a concept-centric mindset, writers can channel their creativity into crafting profound, meaningful narratives that captivate listeners and stand the test of time. So, embark on the journey of exploration, choose a concept, and unlock the hidden gold within your writing ✍️

Concept art is so fun to make! It's cool seeing my ideas come together :)

Pleased to announce Lightyears' release date is coming tomorrow! 🌙

I just woke up from a dream humming a melody, and it gave me the inspiration for my next post - Connecting With The Muse!

Every musician yearns to connect with their muse, that intangible force that fuels creativity and drives the composition of beautiful melodies and lyrics. While each artist has their unique way of connecting with their muse, the journey often leads us to unexpected places. In this post, I want to share my personal experiences of connecting with my muse and offer some insights that may help you discover your own sources of inspiration.

Embrace the Power of Sleep:

For me, the veil between the conscious and subconscious mind is thinnest during sleep. It's a time when the imagination roams free, bringing forth vivid dreams filled with melodies and intriguing characters. By keeping a voice recorder or notepad by your bedside, you can capture these fleeting moments of inspiration as soon as you awaken. Don't underestimate the power of your dreams; they might just hold the key to unlocking your creativity.

The Magic of Everyday Moments:

Inspiration can strike at any moment, and often when we least expect it. Mundane activities like taking a shower or going for a bike ride can be transformed into opportunities for connection with your muse. When your mind wanders and you enter a state of flow, melodies and ideas may effortlessly surface. Although it can be frustrating to pause a shower or dismount your bike to record these ideas, the potential they hold is worth the temporary inconvenience. Embrace these moments and let the muse guide your creative journey.

Capture Ideas Immediately:

I can't stress this enough. Ideas are like fleeting whispers, here one moment and gone the next. As a musician, it's crucial to capture your ideas as soon as they manifest. Keep a voice recorder, notepad, or a smartphone handy at all times. When a melody emerges or a line of lyrics resonates within you, record it immediately. You may think you'll remember it later, but trust me, the memory can be deceiving. The heartbreak of losing a brilliant idea is a potent reminder to seize every opportunity to document your creative sparks.

The path to connecting with your muse is as unique as your artistic voice. By exploring different avenues of inspiration, such as dreams, everyday moments, and capturing ideas promptly, you can deepen your creative well and cultivate a fruitful relationship with your muse. Remember, the muse is not something external to be chased; it resides within you. Embrace the journey, open your heart and mind, and allow your muse to guide you towards the creation of music that resonates with the world. Happy composing! :)

What's your fave place to write songs? Mines on the cow print sofa in our house (vegan friendly ofc) 🐄 ❤️

As a musician, it's important to have multiple funnels of revenue in the modern industry. Gone are the days where a musician could rely solely on record sales and tours to make a living. With the rise of streaming services and the competitive nature of the industry, it's crucial for artists to diversify their income streams. In this post, I'll explore some of the ways musicians can create additional revenue streams and how this can help them connect with their audience. This is often referred to as 'The Listener Path.'

Blogging is one way musicians can create additional revenue streams. By starting a blog, musicians can share their thoughts and experiences with their audience, as well as promote their music and merchandise. A well-written blog can also help to establish an artist's brand and personality, making it easier for fans to connect with them on a deeper level.

Branding is another important aspect of the modern music industry. In order to stand out from the competition, musicians need to have a strong brand that reflects their values, personality, and music. This can include things like merchandise, social media presence, and even collaborations with other artists or brands.

Educational courses are another way musicians can create additional revenue streams. By creating courses that teach other musicians or music enthusiasts about their craft, artists can share their knowledge and expertise while also earning money. This can be particularly beneficial for musicians who are looking to diversify their income streams or who may be taking a break from touring or recording.

Having multiple funnels of revenue not only helps musicians to earn more money, but it also helps them connect with their audience on a deeper level. By sharing their thoughts, experiences, and knowledge with their fans, musicians can build stronger relationships and create more loyal fans.

This is why I have decided to create a YouTube channel academy where I can explore life as a musician more and provide tutorials. Through this academy, I hope to share my knowledge and experience with other musicians, as well as connect with fans on a deeper level. So, watch this space for more information on the academy and how you can get involved.

Dont forget, whether you're a musician looking to expand your career or a fan looking to connect with your favorite artists, having multiple funnels of revenue is a win-win for everyone involved 😀 So bring your audience down The Listener Path!

Been developing a first draft logo for a Youtube Channel with some talented people... watch this space!

May the 4th be with you!

https://idleirismusic.wixsite.com/idleiris

I made a website and EPK! Feel free to check it out. I'll be writing a post about how you can do this yourself soon. :)

Home | IDLE IRiS Melissa Ryan IDLE IRiSPop Rock ArtistUKI am not crazy; my reality is just different from yours...'Bad Intentions' and 'RELAX' available to stream now! 

As a music producer, one of the most important decisions you'll make is which Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) to use. Your DAW is essentially your creative hub, the software that you'll use to record, edit, mix, and produce your music. With so many DAWs available on the market, it can be tough to figure out which one is right for you. In this post, I'll discuss some factors to consider when choosing the right DAW for you.

First and foremost, consider the type of music you produce. Different genres have different requirements and workflows, so it's essential to choose a DAW that suits your needs. For example, if you're producing electronic dance music (EDM), you may want a DAW with a strong MIDI editor, while if you're producing rock music, you may want a DAW with a robust guitar amp simulation.

Another important consideration is your budget. Some DAWs can be expensive, while others are more affordable. There are also free DAWs available, but keep in mind that they may not have all the features you need. Consider your budget and choose a DAW that fits within your financial constraints.

Ease of use is another essential factor. While all DAWs have a learning curve, some are more user-friendly than others. If you're new to music production, you may want to choose a DAW that's easy to navigate and has a simple interface. On the other hand, if you're an experienced producer, you may want a DAW with more advanced features and customization options.

Compatibility with your hardware is also important. Some DAWs work better with certain operating systems or hardware setups. If you have a specific audio interface or MIDI controller, make sure the DAW you choose is compatible with it. This will save you a lot of frustration and headaches down the line.

Finally, consider the community around the DAW. A strong community of users can be a valuable resource for troubleshooting issues, sharing tips and tricks, and collaborating on projects. Some DAWs have larger user communities than others, so take that into account when making your decision.

Here are some examples of DAWs you may consider using, based on the factors previously mentioned:

Genre: If you produce electronic dance music, you may want to consider Ableton Live, which has a strong MIDI editor and loop-based workflow that's popular among EDM producers. On the other hand, if you produce rock music, you may want to consider Pro Tools, which has a reputation for its fantastic guitar amp simulation and mixing tools.

Budget: If you're on a tight budget, you may want to consider Reaper, which has a very affordable price point compared to other professional DAWs. If you're looking for a free DAW, you could check out Audacity or LMMS, although keep in mind that they may not have all the features you need.

Ease of use: If you're new to music production, you may want to consider a DAW with a simple interface and a shallow learning curve, such as GarageBand or FL Studio. If you're an experienced producer looking for more advanced features, you may want to consider Cubase or Logic Pro.

Compatibility with hardware: If you have a specific audio interface or MIDI controller, you may want to consider a DAW that's known to be compatible with your hardware. For example, if you have a Focusrite Scarlett audio interface, you may want to consider using Ableton Live or Pro Tools, both of which are known to work well with Focusrite hardware.

Community: If you're looking for a strong user community, you may want to consider using a DAW like Ableton Live or FL Studio, which have large and active communities of users who share tips, tutorials, and collaborate on projects. Alternatively, if you're looking for a more niche community, you may want to consider a DAW like Bitwig Studio, which has a smaller but dedicated user base.

I use Ableton Live, currently. I love the workflow, especially when using the Ableton Push 2 with it. However, I have also worked with Reaper, Logic, and Pro Tools in the past. All DAWs have their advantages and disadvantages.

In conclusion, choosing the right DAW is an important decision for any music producer. Consider your genre, budget, ease of use, compatibility with your hardware, and community when making your choice. Don't be afraid to try out multiple DAWs before settling on the one that works best for you. With the right DAW, you'll be able to bring your musical ideas to life and create professional-quality recordings.

The End Of The World will be with you shortly... Hang in there! .1

When it comes to securing your first gig, approaching venues is a crucial part of the process. But it can also be intimidating, especially if you don't have any experience or connections in the industry.

To start, research local venues in your area that regularly host live music events. Look for venues that cater to your genre of music and have a reputation for supporting up-and-coming artists. Once you have a list of potential venues, start reaching out to them to inquire about performing.

When approaching venues, it's important to have a professional attitude and presentation. This means having a polished demo or EPK (electronic press kit) ready to send to venue managers, along with a well-crafted email or message introducing yourself and your music.

When starting out, it's also important to be open to starting small. Don't be discouraged if you're offered a low-paying or unpaid gig at a small venue - these opportunities can be a great way to gain experience, build your audience, and network with other musicians and industry professionals.

It's also important to remember that no matter how small your audience may be, every person who attends your show is there to see you perform. And that's something to be grateful for.

Even if only one person buys a ticket to your show, it's important to give them your absolute best performance. That person took the time and effort to come out and support you, and it's your duty as a performer to give them a show they won't forget.

Playing to a small audience can be challenging, but it's important to remember that the size of the crowd does not define the quality of your performance. Whether you're playing to one person or a thousand, every show is an opportunity to connect with your audience and make a lasting impression.

So, don't be disheartened if only a few people show up to your gig. Instead, use it as an opportunity to hone your skills as a performer and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Give each person in the audience your absolute best, and you may just be surprised at the impact you can make. Who knows, that one person in the audience could be a music industry insider, a loyal fan, or a future collaborator. Would you want them to see you sulking on stage? Hell no!

Remember, success in the music industry is not just about how many tickets you sell or how big the crowd is - it's about connecting with your audience and leaving a lasting impression with every performance. So give it your all, and keep chasing your dreams!

I witnessed your sins as they'd sweat from your skin...

I'm really looking forward to reconnecting in June with Mark McMurtrie, the producer (and wizard) behind my original tracks.

One of the most valuable assets any artist can have is a mentor in the music industry, and Mark is mine.

Me and Mark met through a previous project based in Scotland, and our connection has really helped to open doors for me later on in life with my solo career.

A mentor can offer guidance, support, and connections that can help an artist navigate the often-complex landscape of the music industry and achieve their career goals.

The knowledge and experience a mentor can provide are invaluable for an artist seeking to succeed in the music industry. A mentor can offer guidance on various aspects of the industry, such as music production, networking, and record labels. They can share their own experiences and offer advice on how to overcome challenges and obstacles that may arise along the way.

In addition to advice, a mentor can also introduce an artist to other professionals in the industry, such as music publishers, producers, and label executives. These connections can be crucial in helping an artist advance their career and achieve success in the industry.

Furthermore, a mentor can provide emotional support to an artist, which is especially important in the competitive and often unpredictable music industry. They can offer perspective and insight when an artist feels discouraged and help them stay focused on their goals.

Here's a lovely pic of Mark from a time he was interviewed by BBC The Social. Feel free to give him a follow too
Thanks, Mark!