Cities and Coasts is a rising act that has been on our radar for the past few months now. The brainchild of singer-songwriter Nathan Hedges, he is currently sharing his bold new single, “Portland,” for the delight of our ears. The artist blends stunning instrumentation with heartfelt lyrics that takes our interest and holds it tightly. Recently we caught up with Cities and Coasts for an intriguing interview below.
1. When it came to creating the new record, what was the in depth inspiration and influence of the record?
A lot of the inspiration for this record came from my experiences moving across country to Portland and a lot of big events that happened in all of our lives personally and professionally. A lot has changes with everyone involved. We had to face a lot of changes over the past couple years and this is about how we felt about it, good and bad.
2. How do you craft your songs? What elements go into each piece that we will hear consistent throughout the record?
It usually starts with a melody idea that I just start humming or a guitar riff. Then we build a vocal hook and harmonies that layer over that. Then I fit the mood of the music with an experience that fits. You will hear a lot of vocal harmonies throughout all Cities & Coasts albums.
3. What has the recent shows/touring taught you if anything?
Playing shows is a great break from being in the studio recording all the time isolated. I feel like you need to play shows to balance you out and connect with the audience. When you get sick of sitting in a studio all day you need a good change of pace to go out and play and then when you are tired of being on the road, than you are happy to be back home in the studio.
4. What was your musical upbringing like? Did you grow up with music and instruments at an early age?
I grew up in a fairly musical household. As a very young child we would sit around my great grandfather and sing songs together. He could play any stringed instrument and sing. My dad and uncle also played guitar and sang in a little bluegrass project. My older sister played the piano. My older brother and sister were always introducing me to great new music at an early age like Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, Nirvana, The Beach Boys, etc… we used to sing a lot going to church too. I always appreciated music but when I first put my hands on a guitar, everything changed for me. I never put it down.
5.What inspired the title of the album, and is there any special meaning to it?
Named it after the title track “Long Time Coming” which is about being away from something you love for an extended period of time and then reuniting. It seemed very fitting because it has been a couple years in the making.
6. When crafting your songs, do they come from a storytelling place, or more of a personal place? Is it a combination of both?
It is definitely a bit of both. A lot of this record is about specific feelings and moments that I wanted to capture in a song. Sometimes as a writer though you come up with a piece of a song or a clever line that seems like a good hook and before you know it you are pouring your heart into it. And then it becomes very personal. Writing is a discipline and you have to do it everyday to stay sharp. They all become very personal though. Spending so much time crafting a song, recording it and playing it over and over again makes it become part of you.
7. With the release of the record, what other surprises do you have up your sleeve for this year? Can we expect any coinciding video(s) or tour?
Yes, I am currently in the process of moving from Portland, OR to New York City. There are videos and tour dates with a new live band lineup for this summer coming soon! Just keep up with us on social media and our website www.citiesandcoasts.com
Find Cities and Coasts on Spotify, here: