A Quick Chat With OMRA
Meanjin’s OMRA has released an intergalactic dreamscape in the form of her new single ‘Weightless’. With a slew of otherworldly tracks in her discography, OMRA’s music is truly pure indietronica escapism. This new track follows an emotional journey that comes from finally cutting ties with an ex-lover, and facing the future without them. We caught up with OMRA to fine out more about her new track, her influences and more.
Can you tell us what this track means to you and what you want people to take away from it?
This track is about the sudden realisation that you're no longer emotionally dependent on someone, and the reality that you onced shared with them feels like a lifetime ago. For me, it's a powerful expression of letting go and experiencing freedom whilst recognising the necessary role of time in the process. That's what I hope listeners get out of this- to feel empowered by working through those heavy waves of emotion over time and then still holding space for new beginnings, in whatever sense they can relate to.
Who are some of the band's influences, and why?
My biggest influences in terms of songwriting would have to be Meg Mac, Hozier, Lana Del Rey and Angus and Julia Stone, amongst other home-grown artists like Odette and Matt Corby. I grew up listening to everything except for hard-core metal, from every era after the 1950's. I'm happy to say that our music scene in Australia is genuinely my go-to for relatable sounds that hit me right in the feels, which is all I wish to emulate as an indie-artist. People like Vera Blue who have such a vibrant image and move so gracefully on stage inspire the tone that I'm aiming for- that very ethereal, mystical, free-flowing portrait of a modern Stevie Nicks.
What's the creative process for the band, from writing through to recording?
My writing process is mostly spontaneous and sporadic. I write best after 10/11pm, I think when my brain is in 'pre-dream' mode. Otherwise, I get inspired by big emotional revelations or life lessons when they hit me. Writing for me is a bit like eating your favourite foods... you probably could every day, but certain occasions are better than others, and then when you get into it you really indulge and enjoy the experience. I tend to come up with a hook or chorus and a melody simultaneously, and then I just go with the flow, reflect, and then refine based on what's working and what I've learnt in the past. Each time I work with a new producer or sound engineer I learn more about what works best for certain genres/lanes. Every time I sing I learn more about my voice too, and where it likes to sit and how to train it. Basically I just listen to a giant amalgamation of music and take inspiration from absolutely anything, as long as it feels authentic. Most of the time, I start with a short story concept within a broader theme and go from there. For example, at the moment I'm working on something that expresses the notion of an 'old flame'. Once I had my hook, I started filling in the gaps of the story from there.
What do you think makes a great song?
Something that is so emotionally relatable or uplifting that you instantly need to repeat it 50 times, whether it's something in the lyrics or the melody or both- it doesn't matter. It will be different for everyone, but when you find that right combination of elements that just raises your vibration so rapidly... I can't honestly think of a more addictive, intoxicating experience. You can tell when you hear it live too if the performers really feel it, and then even if it sounds different it's still so real and magical.
If you could collaborate with any artist, who would it be and why?
I'd say Meg Mac, for her insane vocals and songwriting style, would have to be pretty up there for me. Also Matt Corby or Angus and Julia Stone if we're thinking Aus based. Internationally, I'd love to work with someone like Hozier one day.
When not working on music, what other creative outlet/s do you have?
I actually did a bachelor of Film and TV in uni and work occasionally as a freelance creator/producer on some short films and docos. Otherwise I work full time managing a film facilities team and lecturing at JMC, which I love. I also teach vocals on the side, and when I'm not doing anything explicitly artsy I enjoy surfing, hiking, travelling or just laying in the sun on the grass and dreaming.
Who are some local bands we should check out?
Definitely Rosa Mack - Georgia is phenomenally talented. Also just caught the first ever gig of Sex in the Sun and they are seriously giving Haitus Kaiyote a run for their money. Liv Marlton has just started on her solo artist journey and she's a multi-instrumentalist maestro. Also Tyde, Elle Hartwig, and Moths to a Flame (for your live house fix). I could go on haha...
Winter or summer and why?
Summer, because I was born in February and that's when my skin feels best, the Earth is its most alive, and I can be super social, go to the beach and surf :)
What else do you have planned for 2024?
More shows and festivals for a start! I've also been working on some exciting new projects with some producers from Brisbane and Sydney, so you can expect to see at least 4 more tracks including an EP coming before the end of the year. I also want to create a music video for Weightless, so I'll endeavour to produce/direct that in the coming months with some of my filmy colleagues and friends.
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