What is your name?
Steve York of Mercy Flight
What is your genre of music?
Dream Inspired Indie Folk
Give us a little bio about you..
I love music and run a couple of indie music nights here in TO.
What made you go in to music?
It’s always been part of my life. Can’t get away from it.
Are you a signed?
No.
You released your new single “Entropy” tell us more about it.
It explores the importance of human connection in a disintegrating world. Technologies designed to bring us together are tearing us apart and destroying our physical realities. “Entropy” is a reminder to connect in the moment.
What was the writing process like?
I give my unconscious free reign and take voice memos to keep track of my ideas so I can revisit them when I get the time.
What was the recording process like?
Great. We recorded at Revolution Recording, one of Toronto’s best recording studios. I work with a bunch of pros, so everything went smoothly. It’s a pleasure working with great people. We recorded on analog which is very rare these days. But we love the sound.
Who did you work on the Single with?
I wrote the song and my sister, Sarah, helped me with the lyrics.
What message are you trying to get out?
Seize the moment, life is ephemeral.
You are also set to release your new record, tell us more about it.
Humanizer explores the relationship between humanity and technology, as well as other themes like the triumph of hope over experience and love over death, etc..
Describe each track in two words.
Entropy: Carpe Diem
Time Machine: Infinite possibilty.
Guardian Angel: Becoming human.
This Time: Hopeful experience.
Break the Chain: Get outside.
Firelight: Get together.
Spinning: Falling stars.
Hold on Me: Loving connection.
For You: Caring devotion.
Work Song: Play more.
What is the message you want to get out.
In a rapidly changing world, let’s remember what it means to be human and not become too isolated as individuals. Let’s try to connect with each other (in the real world) despite the dehumanizing nature of modern technology.
What was the making process of it like?
We used technology of course! Seriously though, we used older technologies and vintage gear as well as computers. We love the process. For us, it’s about making magic and being in the moment.
Do you have gigs coming up?
Yes, we play regularly at the Piston in Toronto. It’s a great venue and we have created a cool scene there.
If so where are you thinking of heading?
We would also like to do some travelling in support of the new record, likely heading to Montreal and NYC.
Do you have any collaborations coming up with any up coming artists?
Not right now.
Would you be up for collaborations if other musicians wanted one with you? and who would they have to contact?
Yes. Contact me.
What else do you have planned this year?
Write and play more music.
Do you play any instruments?
Yes. I’m surrounded by them all the time.
Who are your influences?
So many influences. I’m all over the map! I love Mahler, Erik Satie, Miles Davis, David Bowie, Culture, The Psychedelic Furs, Broken Bells, Tame Impala, Rose Cousins, Neil Young to name a few.
Which TV channel would you like one of your songs to be played on?
CNN.
How do you get inspiration to write songs?
I like to give my unconscious free reign and let ideas flow out. I am inspired by people around me all the time.
Where do you see yourself now in 5 Years?
Hard to say but hopefully not far from where I am right now: happy, healthy and making music!
When you’re not doing music, what do you do?
I like to get out into nature, spend time with my son. I like to cook, watch movies, go to concerts, cuddle with my girlfriend, you know, the usual stuff 😉
What was the song you listened to most that influenced you to go more in to the music scene?
“Pale Shelter” by Tears for Fears.
What’s the best advice you have ever been given?
Take care of yourself, no one’s gonna do it for you.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians not about the industry and just as an artist?
Keep playing, don’t give up. Strike a healthy balance between your life and your art.
What quote or saying do you always stick by?
Music is its own reward.
Where in your hometown is a must go to visit?
My open mic: Freefall Sundays at the Supermarket.
When you are at a gig, what are 5 things you cannot forget?
Myself, the people around me, my instruments, connect with the audience, have a good time.
Do you have social media accounts so your fans can follow you?
