A Quick Chat with Orchid Bloom
Who is Orchid Bloom?
My name is Jay, I go by the music name Orchid Bloom. I’m a New Zealand-born and Sydney-based multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter, producer, visual/graphic designer, tattoo artist, photographer, painter and more.
How would you describe Orchid Bloom's sound?
My sound is a textured and warped combination of stylistics I connect with. I’ve always aimed to sound unique while still being digestible and catchy. I’m a fully solo artist – writing, recording, producing, mixing/mastering, designing, marketing and performing everything myself.
Have you always wanted to be an artist?
Since I was a kid I’ve always enjoyed being creative – it’s in my blood. I’d draw on school books and listen to music in class. My parents always encouraged my creativity. I played drums in primary school, sometimes at assembly. I’ve always known being artistic was my passion.
Briefly describe your journey to date.
I started seriously making music at 14, teaching myself guitar, bass and piano. I later studied music – learning performance, marketing, production and more. I released my first single in 2021, and played my first solo show in 2022. Since then, I’ve been travelling, writing, recording and refining my style, both musically and visually. I live and breathe music – always listening, collecting, researching. I also started my first magazine, Viroid, to showcase local and international creatives. If you're interested, reach out via Instagram: @vir0id or @nedy4j.
Your latest EP ‘Ambivalent Works’ has just been released! What’s it all about?
‘Ambivalent Works’ is my first full project – a collection of ideas and moments in time. It explores solitude, reflection, and growth. I pushed my sound into new territory, blending electronic, ambient, alternative and experimental styles. I travelled a bit during its creation, so postage stamps became the project’s visual theme, symbolising the experiences I brought home to finish the EP.
Describe the origin and evolution of 'Ambivalent Works'.
I spent years producing and experimenting with sound. I had countless demos that I revisited, refined and compiled into this project. The title reflects the range of styles and indecision that came with it. I shot the cover on my iPhone, edited it and released it independently. It’s my personal take on ambient and instrumental works – made for me, and hopefully enjoyed by others too.
What are the standout tracks from the EP? Which are your favourites to play live?
The signature tracks are ‘Pomegranate’, ‘Don’t You Know Better?’ and ‘Fertiliser’. My favourite live tracks are ‘Don’t You Know Better?’, ’Strawberry Jam’ and ‘After All, All After’. I also blend in interludes to create flow and dynamic transitions between songs.
Why do you think fans can resonate with your music?
I think it represents independence – for people who feel alone but want to make something of themselves. It’s about being a creator without needing a big team or connections. People may connect to how it sounds, how it feels – and for that, I’m grateful.
Which artist’s music or performance inspires you today?
I’m inspired by many artists. Hendrix’s Live at Monterey performance is iconic to me. Nirvana was the first band I really connected with – Kurt’s rawness and anti-industry approach always stuck with me. I’m also influenced by Kevin Parker, Pond, GUM, Genesis Owusu and others who embrace being different.
What is the best thing about performing to a live audience? What’s been the career highlight so far?
Performing is powerful – whether it’s for one or many. Expressing myself through my own work is always special. A highlight was my first solo show – just me, an hour-long set, at a golf course at sunset. Birds flew overhead as I played. It was a moment that proved I could do this if I stayed brave.
What is the one topic you can talk about for hours?
Music.
If you could perform with any music artist, who would you choose? And why?
So many! I’d love to work with Björk – her eccentricity inspires me. Also Kim Gordon, John Lydon, John Frusciante, Devonté Hynes, Kevin Parker, Theophilus London and 070 Shake. I’d love to produce for a lot of these artists.
What are your long-term aspirations as a music artist and how are you progressing towards them?
I want to make timeless art that outlives me. I want to be respected as a true creative and eventually live off my music. I stay consistent, keep learning, push my sound and share vulnerably – even when it’s uncomfortable.
What advice would you give to an artist starting out?
Make something only you could make. Don’t let doubt or outside noise shape your vision. You don’t need a big budget or label – just authenticity and persistence. Find the version of your creativity that’s the most you. People see through inauthenticity. As Virgil Abloh said: “Life is so short, that you can’t waste even a day subscribing to what someone thinks you can do, versus knowing what you can do.”