A Quick Chat With GLVES

GLVES has unveiled her latest alt-pop electronica masterpiece, ‘Echo’, a hauntingly beautiful exploration of family, pain, and transformation. Blending ethereal vocal loops with cinematic Blaktronica and moody synth-driven soundscapes, the Magandjin-based artist delivers a track that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. With a ghostly, reflective quality and a dynamic, beat-heavy pulse, ‘Echo’ is a testament to GLVES’s powerful storytelling and boundary-pushing artistry. We caught up with GLVES to find out more about the track, her influences and what else she has planned for 2025.

Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
This track is about those pure childhood connections that sometimes can’t carry forward because of the choices others make. But it’s hopeful—hopeful that love and memories can still help us grow. I wanted to reference the wildflower because, like wildflowers, some of us find resilience even in the harshest conditions. My music is deeply influenced by the land and country, reflecting the strength and renewal nature teaches us. I hope people hear the floatiness and echo of memories in this track and remember their own early-life connections that shaped them.

Who are some of your influences, and why?
I draw inspiration from artists like Aurora, Buzz, Little Dragon, and Björk, who create immersive, emotive worlds with their music. I deeply admire people and particularly women who defy systems not built for them, forging their own paths with heart, dedication, and artistry. First Nations artists here in Australia, like Emily Wurramara and Barkaa, also influence me—their storytelling and strength resonate powerfully. I’m drawn to Nordic sounds and music that feels both ethereal and deeply grounded in the earth—a blend of warmth and cold, nature and spirit. Beyond music, I love history podcasts like Throughline, as well as those focused on healing and personal growth. I also find inspiration in historical fiction, which reveals how the past shapes our present. I believe true growth comes from understanding and reckoning with history—both personal and collective.

What's the creative process for you, from writing through to recording?
My process varies depending on what I’m working on. Sometimes, a song starts in Ableton, but other times, it begins with a melody in my head that I quickly record as a voice memo. At its core, it always starts with a message that sits in my heart that wants to be heard. Once I have that foundation, I take it into the studio, refine the vocal and sections, and slowly shape it into something complete, depending on who I’m collaborating with.

What do you think makes a great song?
A great song has the ability to transport you—whether it takes you to another time, place, or deeper into yourself. It articulates emotions you didn’t even know you needed to express, and when done right, it leaves a lasting imprint on your spirit.

If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
Aurora, without a doubt. She’s incredible—so heart-driven and deeply connected to her art. I feel like I could learn so much from her, not just musically but in the way she moves through the world with such authenticity and vision.

When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
Hiking, camping and getting out onto Country is a huge one for me. Cooking is another creative outlet—I love making delicious food. And whenever I can, I go for swims in the ocean or rivers. Being in nature is essential for my creativity and overall wellbeing.

Who are some local bands we should check out?
There’s so much amazing talent here! Some of my faves are Haiku Hands, Moss, and Badassmutha. Definitely worth checking them out!

Winter or summer and why?
Winter, all the way. I love being cosy—there’s something about that season that feels like a creative cocoon, a time to reflect and go inward.

What do you have planned for 2025?
It’s going to be a huge year! I’ve got a body of work dropping, and I’ll be showcasing my live show in some really exciting ways. Can’t wait to share it all!

Interviewsaustralianmusicscene28 February 2025