motel void

MOTEL VOID: You describe your style as “desert indie,” blending midwest emo and dream pop. What influences shaped this style?

SUNSET STATION: One of my biggest influences is American Football. The way they intertwine post-rock and midwest emo continues to fascinate me. They were really ahead of their time when their first album came out. Another major influence is Duster. Their minimalist soundscapes transport you into space. I take these influences, along with inspiration from the desert landscape, to shape my sound. Lately, I’ve also been really enjoying the band Sign Crushes Motorist.

MOTEL VOID: I really love your new single “Decoys.” Can you share the inspiration behind the track? What was the recording process like?

SUNSET STATION: “Decoys” came to me after driving to Elko, Nevada one evening. The stark landscapes beyond the Bonneville Salt Flats, along with a dilapidated sign I passed on the highway, made me feel like I was looking into an alien world. That sign ended up being on the art for the single. I’m in a new phase of Sunset Station, aiming for a harsher sound that reflects the ruggedness of my environment, which is both harsh and incredibly beautiful. The song took about two weeks to write. It went through several instrumental drafts, and I spent time deciding which layers to add or remove. I think I’ve found a good balance between lush and minimal soundscapes in this one. “Decoys” is my favorite Sunset Station song to date.

MOTEL VOID: Coming from Salt Lake City, UT, do you have any favorite local venues and artists you’d recommend?

SUNSET STATION: Yes! The music scene in Salt Lake City is thriving. Kilby Court is at the heart of that community. The first show I saw after moving here was Sunhills, a local dream pop band. Being new to the city and seeing such a talented band perform in that intimate venue made me feel like I had found a home for my music. I still really love Sunhills, and I’ve been lucky enough to share the stage with them a few times.

MOTEL VOID:Do you have plans for an album or EP to follow “Decoys”?

SUNSET STATION: Right now, I’m in a phase where I’m just writing what feels good. Shifting back to a solo project has been rewarding in the sense that I’m creating music I genuinely enjoy. I’m hoping to release an EP by the end of the year, but for now, I’m focusing on individual singles. I do have a new song coming out in a few weeks, which draws more from post-punk elements, similar to my last single, “Video Star.”

MOTEL VOID:Are there any upcoming tours or live shows?

SUNSET STATION: Unfortunately, I don’t have any live shows planned at the moment. I’m still experimenting with this new sound and expanding my catalog before putting a new band together. I really miss playing shows, though! My goal is to start performing again by the end of summer.