Desktop Diaries: The Paranoyds
Interview & Photos by Athena Merry, Collages by Jade
these interviews were conducted over zoom + email between april and july of 2020. the answers are mostly unedited, offering an honest insight into the headspace of various bands/musicians across the world during these months.
you can read more desktop diaries here.
The Paranoyds
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How have you been, really?
The way I create has obviously become very isolated. As a band, we usually compose our songs together at practice, but now we’ve been doing it remotely. There’s an energy that’s lacking from the isolated process but I’m finding it really productive. Also, without the hustle and bustle of normal life, I really crave creating even more. As soon as one project’s done I need to start on the next! It’s keeping me sane.
How has quarantine affected the way you create? Are there any changes that surprised you? Anything that’s remained the same?
I personally draw most of my inspiration from movies, and it’s nice because now I have a lot more time to watch stuff. It’s also really interesting/inspiring to see how some companies, musicians, etc. are adapting to a fully virtual sphere -- the clever ideas they have on how to move forward, especially if they’re helping others in the process. The most inspiring thing I’ve come across during quarantine is by far is this experimental short film I unknowingly made in my pocket. I had my phone in my pocket for hours and when I took it out and looked through my camera, there were dozens of photos and videos that were so shockingly beautiful. Maybe it’s the quarantine crazies talking but it nearly brought me to tears. —Laila
Where have you been finding inspiration in isolation? And expanding on that, what’s the most random thing that has inspired you?
Wake up, get dressed, fuss about the house while making coffee. Luckily, I’m able to work remotely so I do that until like 4 or 5. Then cook a little din-din and do some sort of “free time” activity—usually watch something and scrapbook, play guitar or play NBA 2K20 on the ps4. It’s all very nice and mellow but I’m VERY ready to get the show back on the road. Literally ;-) —Lexi
What does your typical day look like now?
Does overeating count? —Lexi
Have you picked up any new habits? (conscious or unconscious)
I’m a crazy coconut, but creating a structured day that includes time for creativity really helped me out. We’ve been able to write songs remotely, which is so awesome and something we’ve never done before. On a macro level, I think it’s important to get your news and be informed, but to put your phone down as soon as that shit starts to get repetitive. Stay safe, stay healthy, and remember there’s still a whole world out there! —Lexi
What do you find important right now? This can be as broad and world-effecting or as small and self-focused as you want.
This is definitely a lame way to connect with people. I’m mostly on instagram so i guess just by keeping in touch with fans we’ve met on the road and watching their content? Not ideal...there are a couple of fans who i’ve sent postcards to or they’ve written to me. People need music and they need to see it live. The impact is substantial and I'm bummed out. I do love that people can get intimate experiences with their musicians of choice now. I was able to watch Patti Smith live stream with her daughter and it felt like a personal facetime. The only time I saw her actually play live I was probably about a mile away in a really obnoxious drunk crowd. So there is that cool aspect… The amount of times I’ve stumbled on a band live I’ve never heard and have been totally inspired is too many to count. So we lose the spontaneity of discovery and an atmospheric experience. Seeing a band’s fans live is all a part of the show too. Feeling a part of something. It’s not the same discovering something new on Spotify via their radio that plays the same songs for all the algorithms. —Staz
As a musician unable to play live shows - how do you find yourself connecting with fans, now? How do you think this is impacting our experience of and relationship with music?
Fine tbh! This all really is starting to feel like “the new normal.” I’m also a big creature of habit and thrive on a daily routine, so I’m chilling for the time being but think I will start to get the itch to start making moves soon. —Laila
What was the last selfish thing you did?
Ah it feels so good to be selfish these days. Haha I honestly don't know what to say. I cleaned my car but not my boyfriend’s? I probably made myself food without making enough for him either at some point. —Staz
Tell us about the last time you truly felt free.
Whenever I get to look at trees, bugs, plants, the ocean, rocks. I’m lucky to live in LA where this is all accessible. Even just getting in the car is a release knowing I could just keep driving. —Staz
What’s something you’re proud of at the moment?
I learned how to make a mean veggie lasagna. I’ve also managed to stay very productive and sane by giving myself tasks every day. —David
What long term effects do you think this experience will have on you moving forward?
I hope to carry the discipline I’ve been developing through quarantine for the rest of my life. I’ll also probably be a lot more concerned with hygiene. —David
What’s one thing you wish you would have done more of? One thing you will do more of after the pandemic has ended?
I would've liked to visit my parents in Texas more and that’s probably exactly what I’ll do. —David