Introducing another fellow local L.A.-native Kimera Morell or, simply, KIMERA who just recently released her debut EP "Dirty Floor Vol.1". I got a chance to learn more about this beautiful songstress and her music when I had the opportunity to interview her which you can about below:
MHB: Where are you from and can you touch a little on the music scene there and what you like about it?
Kimera: I grew up south of Boston in a town called Randolph, Ma. It was a very eclectic music scene, but at the time in my life, i became really attracted to hip hop and dance hall. School dances were a memory of such a cool vibe of friends dancing with friends, grinding was an expression of the music and less of a sexual meaning. Dance offs were on point but all love.
MHB: How long has music been a part of your life and how did it come to be a part of it?
Kimera: From birth, and from birth. My parents were both musically gifted. My father, a brilliant French Horn player in orchestras, and my mother a phenomenal soprano who gravitated toward musical theatre.
MHB: Do you play any instruments? If so, which and for how long?
Kimera: My main instrument is voice. My mom tells me stories about me wandering around the house belting out random operatic style notes at age 2. When I was 8, I picked up trumpet, following my big brother. I still play.
MHB: When was it that you realized your voice could be used as a special instrument and that making music was what you wanted to do?
Kimera: I’ve always loved to sing. But I do have a memory of a pivotal moment where I thought, “I want to be a singer when I grow up,” when TLC were my heroes, and later Spice Girls were an image I longed to be.
MHB: Who were some of your biggest musical influences growing up and who are some current artists who are influencing you and your music?
Kimera: Growing up, I am grateful to have influences across the board. Janet Jackson, Ace of Base, Natalie Cole, Oasis and Incubus would be my top 5. It is really hard to identify with specific artists now, because it’s my goal to be unique and familiar. I have been so excited by new music over the last year; some of my heroes are Jack Garratt, SOHN, Tove Lo, and though we disagree sometimes, The Weeknd knows my heart.
MHB: Without using any musical terms, how would you describe your sound to a new listener?
Kimera: A swim through sexual frustration and self doubt.
MHB: Can you tell me a little bit about your creative process? It is typically the same or does it differ?
Kimera: I can’t. It’s different every song. Which I find exciting.
MHB: If you had the opportunity to collab with any artist of your choosing, who would you choose?
Kimera: Paul McCartney.
MHB: Lets talk about your latest release 'Dirty Floor Vol. 1'... How did it come together and what was the inspiration behind it?
Kimera: This is a loaded question with a couple years of torment and uncertainty. To sum up the inspiration, the best I can say is a break down and rebuilding of my person. Followed by a break down of my person. Hopefully by Vol. 2 you’ll find the rebuilding again.
MHB: What can we expect to see from you in the coming months?
Kimera: Lots of surprises and selfies. Some shows in the LA area. Most Excitingly you’ll see Dirty Floor Vol. 2!
MHB: Can you tell me one random fact about yourself?
Kimera: I used to be a dedicated amateur inline speed skater.
MHB: What does music mean to you?
Kimera: It’s the meaning of life.
MHB: Is there anything else you would like to share about yourself and/or your music?
Kimera: Don’t find me to be as wise as I portray myself.
Check out the video to my personal favorite from "Dirty Floor Vol. 1" called "I Can't" below:
To hear more from KIMERA visit her Soundcloud page