Can you start by telling us a bit about the formation of Tricktheriddle? How did the band come together and what inspired the name?
Tricktheriddle came from space. Huntoid, the highly advanced mercenary robot was traveling the known universe when he came upon Lucious, an ancient vampiric lifeform that was dormant on one of the planets. Motivated by Huntoid’s innate curiosity, the robot landed on this world and awoke the slumbering being that had been resting for thousands of years. After acquainting and joining forces, they vowed to fight against the riddles of the past, present, and future, through various tricks and unexpected happenings.
“Peptalks” seems to have a unique and intriguing title. Could you share the story behind the song’s name and its connection to the lyrics?
A pep talk is what you get when you need to be reminded what it’s all about, and what it’s all for. Usually, one gives themselves a pep talk, which is kind of what’s going on here.
Musicians often draw from personal experiences when creating music. What was the inspiration behind “Peptalks”? Is there a specific story or emotion that drove the song’s creation?
Peptalks is about a literal pep-talk that Luke got while on the subway one afternoon. A random person approached, and told Luke that they looked sad, and to ‘cheer up’. This came out of nowhere, and left Luke feeling somewhat disturbed. In relation to the lyrics, this event inspired the feeling that no matter where you are or what you are going through, even someone trying to help probably doesn’t care all that much, and really doesn’t have much to offer except for a coined phrase about feeling better. In the end, it’s on you.
The music genre and style of Tricktheriddle’s songs can be quite diverse. How would you describe the musical journey that “Peptalks” takes listeners on?
I could never be able to describe someone else’s journey or experience. On the subject of TTR’s diverse genre and style, we feel as though people need to broaden their horizon a bit, and stop limiting themselves to one specific niche or box they feel comfortable in.
Lyrically, “Peptalks” appears to carry a message. Could you elaborate on the themes or messages embedded in the song, and what you hope listeners will take away from it?
I think listeners who actually give the song a chance will have a feeling of being noticed, whether by others or finally, themselves. The lyrics, like most of TTR’s music, can be interpreted quite literally.
The production and arrangement of a song can greatly influence its impact. Can you shed some light on the creative process you went through while bringing “Peptalks” to life in the recording studio?
This is a song I had written long ago, and a song we had been performing for quite some time. It felt cathartic, greater so than a typical recording session, because the song had signaled a time in my life that was mostly behind us. It had been written already, completely fleshed out, and I created a demo to it that is identical to the recording, structurally. Finally giving the song the treatment it deserved was a magical experience.
Collaboration is often key in a band’s success. How did the band members contribute their individual strengths to “Peptalks,” and what role did each member play in its creation?
Because we had been playing this song for so long, the other members had enough time to express themselves in ways that can only come from excessive repetition. The drums were solid since day one, and the extra umph that Huntoid adds is always a delicious seasoning.
Many listeners enjoy discovering the technical aspects of a song. Could you discuss any unique instruments, production techniques, or stylistic choices that were incorporated into “Peptalks”?
The varied influences come to life on peptalks, whether or not the listener is aware or even enjoys them. We used an electric guitar to record this song, which was very cool and also new for the time. I also used an amplifier that someone made in their garage!
“Peptalks” might resonate differently with different listeners. Is there a particular emotion or experience you hope the song will evoke, and do you have a favorite fan reaction to it so far?
Seeing people headbang during the chorus makes me feel fuzzy inside
Looking at the bigger picture, how does “Peptalks” fit into Tricktheriddle’s larger discography and artistic evolution? What can fans anticipate from the band in the future, building on the essence of this song?
More music in the future that doesn’t care how you think it sounds or what it sounds like. Tricktheriddle very much makes their own style, and we have so much more beautiful music for those that stick around.
Also, PEPTALKS music video is being released on Sept. 1 on our YouTube channel. Check it out!
