Based in Zurich, Switzerland, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Fabian Koerber formed the new indie rock project known as Urban Walrus in January 2021. Concerned more about the music as opposed to the image, with Urban Walrus the Swiss artist focuses on writing and recording songs that resonate with listeners around the world.
At the end of 2021, we were introduced to the Urban Walrus sound with the debut single “Pie in the Sky”, which was followed by singles two and three in 2022 with “Shades” and “August Rain”. Making an impact straight away, with just three tracks Urban Walrus has struck a chord with fans and clocked over half a million streams on Spotify alone.
Linking up with producer Jeannot Steck, the third single was recorded at Soundcheck Studio, Switzerland and released via Flying Pig Productions and saw Urban Walrus lay down his poignant writing wrapped up in a timeless and melodic indie rock sound.
We got the chance to catch up with him to find out more about his musical journey so far and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Urban Walrus below.
Hey Urban Walrus, how’s things?
Hey, how are you? Happy new Year!
Great, thanks! Your stage name is epic, how did that come about?
You like it? Well, there is no deeper meaning to it really – just like the Beatles Song “I am the Walrus”, it is just a silly play of words, a riddle if you will, and just like that Song, it remains unsolved… even to me. 😊
What was your biggest highlight of 2022?
The biggest highlight was, that we were free to travel again after the covid-crisis. So we traveled extensively in 2022, mainly through Europe and Asia.
How did you first get into making your own music?
I started to play Music with an old classic-guitar, and a bunch of Cat Stevens Songs, learning my first chords. Soon after I felt confident enough to form my first band when I was like 14. Back then, being loud was our prime goal. However, the Band soon split-up and new Bands were formed, just to split up again… The usual process, I guess.
You made your debut in December 2021 with “Pie in the Sky”, how has your sound progressed since then?
With every new Song, I try to pay more attention to details. Harmonies, instrumentation, fills, etc. The key elements remain the same. There will always be a rich and bold melody, lots of guitars and in most songs you hear an organ.
Which artist do you draw most inspiration from?
That’s almost impossible to answer – Anything I have ever listened to has a certain impact. It’s a wide range from Neil Young to Oasis, from Chili Peppers to Pink Floyd, Bob Marley, Iron Maiden, Radiohead – all kinds of music may have an influence even if you don’t necessarily hear it in my sound. Check out our Playlist on Spotify “Urban Walrus Favorites” – you may be surprised.
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
Our Music can be enjoyed anytime, anywhere doing anything. Though people keep telling me, they love to listen our music when they drive, like on a road trip.
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
An Indonesian Band called “Cokelat” – Alt Rock/ Pop Punk at its best. They are huge in Asia.
What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
Honestly, I never really think about that. I just write a Song and if I like it, I record and release it. And normally there are some people out there who like Song as well… Nothing has to resonate really. They like it, I’m glad. They find a deeper meaning to it, great. They find it all crap, that’s ok too.
What’s been your favourite live show so far?
I’m not so much into live-shows. I like small club-gigs.
How do you try and connect with an audience when you’re performing live?
We don’t really perform live. Up until now, we are a Studio-Project only. Never say never though. Let’s see where it leads us from here.
What emotions were you trying to convey with your latest single “August Rain”?
It’s about the loss of a very close person, who died in a car accident, many years ago, on a day in August. As simple as that. Anyone who experienced anything similar, might take comfort from the song and the lyrics.
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
Oasis, Chili Pepper and Radiohead – Glastonbury?
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
I might be the one asking for advice… All I can say is this: Always enjoy what you’re doing. The Music is centre stage, not you, not your ego. Don’t take yourself too seriously. Practice. Don’t preach.
Finally, what do you have planned for 2023?
Next month our new single will be released. Another two are in the pipeline. Apart from that, there are no plans. I take it as it comes
Listen to August Rain below
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