In recent years, Seattle’s indie music scene has been lit up by the sounds of La Need Machine, the genre-blending sensation poised for widespread recognition. Stitching elements of indie pop, alternative country, neo-classic rock, Americana and melodic punk, La Need Machine offers a sonic fabric unlike anything else.
Established in 2020, La Need Machine made their entrance with the debut record, Home, a seven-track showcase of their originality. Since then, their musical journey has been marked by a string of singles, an EP and the sophomore album, Killer Instinct, released last year.
Known for their hook-focused tracks, La Need Machine’s music has become synonymous with infectious melodies. Led by Lead Guitarist Al and co-lead singers Brian and Elise, partners in both music and life, La Need Machine embodies the true spirit of Seattle’s diverse musical landscape. Al’s adeptness with powerful progressions and catchy writing complements Brian and Elise’s harmonious vocals, creating a synergy that’s won over audiences. Beyond their musical talents, the band actively supports various non-profit organisations, turning their streaming revenue into a force for positive change.
Now, after linking with sebastian on the single “Maria” earlier this year, La Need Machine return with their latest release and bring us their new single titled “I Wish I Could Fly.” Serving up a stunning slice of their bright indie sound with an Americana twist, “I Wish I Could Fly” sees the band lay down charming songwriting, buoyant split vocals and superb musicianship.
Opened by a delicate arrangement of smooth guitar leads floating over the gentle tap of drums, warm acoustic guitar strums and elegant string touches, Brian and Elise thread overlapping vocal leads, resulting in a heartfelt and graceful country-tinged indie rock sound. Picking up the pace and building to the chorus, the song shimmers with instantly catchy melodic leads and energising instrumentation.
Peppered with Al’s slick lead guitar flourishes throughout, “I Wish I Could Fly” offers up the very best of La Need Machine’s highly original and entirely enjoyable sound. The single also carries a poignant message about the impact of climate change on wildlife via the story of a Black Bear forced to leave its habitat due to wildfires, yearning to fly to escape and help other animals.
We caught up with La Need Machine to find out more about their musical journey so far, their new single “I Wish I Could Fly” and what they’ve got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with La Need Machine below.
Hey guys, howâs things?
Things are going great! Our new single, I Wish I Could Fly, is doing great on streaming services (particularly Spotify)! We are getting some radio airplay, and a lot more is to come!
How did you get together as a band?
Through local music scene connections. Especially our Producer Bear Davis.
Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?
We draw inspiration from a wide variety of artists from a wide variety of genres. We love Americana old and new, from the Blasters, to Brandi Carlile and Boy Genius. We love Indie Rock like old Fastbacks and new Sam Fender. We love rock and roll from Joan Jett to the Who and the Struts. We love classic punk rock from the Clash to Social Distortion.Â
How else do you find inspiration for your music?
We find inspiration in the things around us. Happy people, sad people. World events like Climate Change. And underdogs â we love underdogs!
Whatâs been your highlight of the year so far?
We went over 1 Million streams on Spotify and 1 Million views on YouTube. Both of those were great accomplishments!
What do you love about the Seattle music scene?
I like that is has always been eclectic, and for the most part audiences are open to old and new sounds. Many cities lay claim to influential bands, but we punch above our weight in that regard. Of course, everyone knows Jimi Hendrix, Nirvana, Pearl Jam. But in my opinion, the Sonics had as much influence as anyone!
What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?
Really anywhere â but I want to say live when we get back to venues here and there. Outside of that, wherever your best sound system is. There are many layers to our music, and they are most clear with a good sound system.
How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?
I have listened to so much different music over the years, it has all left an imprint on me. You donât even think about it —Â subconsciously I could be channeling Joe Strummer, or Tom Petty, or Chuck Berry.
Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?
I would say David Bowie for this reason â David Bowie made every song he touched better. That is the prime directive for La Need Machine. If an idea elevates the song, itâs in. If doesnât, itâs out.
How did you find making your recent single âI Wish I Could Flyâ?
OMG! We had so much fun because our Producer, Bear Davis, creates an atmosphere that is loose and not tight. So, if we mess up a take, we just do it again. And again until Bear is satisfied.
What message did you want to get across with this release?
We have to take action on Climate Change. And if we canât think of ourselves, then letâs do it for the animalsÂ
What artist have you been listening to most recently?
The Struts! And Brandi Carlile!
Whatâs the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?
We want people to feel joy! We want them to be entertained, energised, and inspired.
Whatâs been your favourite live performance so far?
Crocodile Cafe
Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?
Social Distortion; U2; Brandi Carlile
The Gorge in Eastern Washington
Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?
It sounds clichĂ©, but, the best advice is to believe in yourself. If you donât believe in yourself, nobody else will either!
Finally, what do you have lined up for 2024?
We recently signed with Worldsound/Virgin Music Group and we have a series of killer singles ready for release.
Listen to I Wish I Could Fly below
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