Roniit: Interview

Jenn Cohen | April 1, 2012 | 0 Comments

by Corey Blecha

As electronic music continues to press into mainstream culture, there are certain acts that bridge the gap between the new-age digital world of music, and the traditional pop tunes we have become accustomed to hearing on the radio. One local act that has been integrating electronic influences into her highly polished pop songs is Roniit; a rapidly rising star in the local scene who has been turning heads with her innovative and emotional lives shows, and creative producer sensibility.

Attending the College of Arts and Media at the University of Colorado Denver, where she studied music business under some of the most esteemed professors in the state, Roniit Alkayam has been able to develop her unique style in the past year or so, resulting in some stunning electro-pop compositions, including “Now or Never” and “Stronger”, off her new album–available on her Bandcamp page. Pristine production, coupled with smooth and whimsical vocals, result in a style all her own, and one you will be hearing around town in the coming months, as Roniit continues on her roll of top-notch productions and stunning live shows. I had a few words with her about some of her influences and what she aims to accomplish with her music.

CMB: Who are some of your local, as well as international influences?

Roniit: So many local Denver bands are extremely creative when it comes to how they release their music. I’ve definitely taken notice of bands like Achille Lauro and Mancub, who use creative means to release tracks – such as in a fortune cookie or on a candle. Dave Devine is a great local guy, creating beautiful music and teaching others how to do so. Most of my big influences are over in Europe. I love so many electro pop bands from over there, such as Monarchy, Oh Land, Royksopp, and more. I’m also a huge fan of metal bands such as Opeth, Children of Bodom, and Moonsorrow. Every once in a while you might hear a growl or guitar solo on one of my songs.

CMB: What equipment/programs do you use to create your music?

Roniit: I use Apple Logic along with a few plug-ins. The most important part of my set up is my Apogee Ensemble interface. That thing has incredible pre-amps which makes vocals sound real nice and shiny.

CMB: What are your goals with this project? How did it begin?

Roniit: I’ve been playing in various bands for years, but after being let down by band mates one too many times, I realized that I could accomplish way more on my own. I started writing songs on my computer, never showing them to anyone. Then I met my drummer/boyfriend, Eric, who was producing electronic music in Nashville. He polished one of my songs and added drums; it sounded really professional, so I released it on Soundcloud. Fast-forward two months later, and I have 5,000 Soundcloud followers begging for more songs. I decided to move to Nashville to complete an internship and work on music. While I was there, I wrote several songs, all the while getting production lessons from Eric. Eventually I made a Facebook page, and decided to release an official album and start playing my music live.

As for goals, if I could do everything I’m doing now, but on a larger scale I’d be very happy. For instance, I’d love to go on tour again, but do it bigger and better. I’d also love to get to the point where I have help with marketing and promotion of my music, whether that means label support, or just the support of someone influential that believes in me. Another goal is to reach the point where I can afford to work with professional creative individuals who can help me create spectacular videos for my music.

CMB: Any upcoming events, releases, etc. coming up?

Roniit: I’m going to be releasing a new song within the next month. I’m also planning on doing a music video this summer. As always, I’m playing in Denver almost every month, and MIGHT be doing a full tour of Colorado this summer.

CMB: Shout outs?

Roniit: I want to say ‘HEY’ to my touring mate Rainbowdragoneyes, who writes crazy music on his Nintendo Gameboy. I also want to say “sup” to my best friends in Denver’s most extreme metal band – Vale of Pnath.