motel void

MOTEL VOID: You’re from London, UK. How would you describe current music scene there? Do you feel that you’re part of it?

KING CASIO: I feel fortunate to know some amazing musicians in London, especially Mark and Tam (ampersand), who help organize a monthly residency at Map Studios in North London. The musicians I’ve met in London genuinely support each other, creating a real sense of family within the community.

MOTEL VOID: You’ve been releasing singles since 2020. Your last one is called ‘So Much More’. Will it be part of your first record?

KING CASIO: Yes, ‘So Much More‘ will be part of my first record, along with some other previously recorded songs. I’m working on a record slightly influenced by the style of Harry Nilsson. It’s almost like an adult child’s record. Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating at times with Frank Dillane, a fantastic actor and songwriter.

MOTEL VOID: Could you tell us more about the recording and writing process of your songs?

KING CASIO: Music serves as therapy for me; I write what I’m feeling while emphasizing melody. When recording, I often head to Press Play Studio, home of Stereolab, to lay down drums, bass, and piano. Then, I typically overdub vocals at home. For ‘So Much More,’ I chose to record the vocals using my laptop microphone. Usually, I send my music to Petter Grevelious (Butcher Pete) for production, and this time, I also involved Oli Barton-Wood, who understands Petter’s sound exceptionally well.

MOTEL VOID: Your biggest music inspirations right now?

KING CASIO: Currently, my biggest inspirations are Otti and the Voices, Frank Dillane, Butcher Pete, Si Fi Nilsson, Rose Droll, Joanna Newsom, L.A. Salami, Ampersand, and the band that was Tuesday.

MOTEL VOID:Your plans for 2024?

KING CASIO: The plan for 2024 involves releasing the album, going on tour, but most importantly, continuing to write music. People often worry too much about the success of a release, but in reality, it’s not like heart surgery—if a song doesn’t go well, there’s always another one to release.