Interview: Animor
Animor is the project created by Swiss-based artist Romina Kalsi, the former front woman of the band Rocky Wood until 2018. Her 2020 hit “Wild Dog” was a critical success.
Animor returns with a new single « Together », with Scandinavian musicians Tobias Granbacka and Daniel Fagerudd) which celebrates… well, togetherness. Building on straightforward acoustic guitar chords, a steady beat and cheerful background synths, the song is one of the band’s poppiest and catchiest yet and is a reflection on how we make each other grow, on how one can provide a sense of belonging to a partner. The track was recorded between Stockholm, Vaasa (Finland) and Romina’s living room in Lugano and was written by Tobias Granbacka and mixed by Daniel Fagerudd.
The video was directed by Abed Kawsarani and Denise Liardet and captures a series of simple and joyful shared moments.
We had the pleasure of checking in with Romina and she was kind enough to respond to a few interview questions.
Hi Romina, congrats on your new single "Together" and thanks for taking time for a few interview questions.
Thank you very much!
What can you tell us about your creative process this time around and what's the …
The song was written by our favorite pianist and project mate Tobias Granbacka. When I heard "Together" for the first time, it just confirmed to me how great he is, not only as a human being, but an amazing songwriter.
When we have a chance to write songs together I always feel at ease and feel we can create songs that really matter. I find Together to be a very important message and honored to sing this song. We arranged together with Daniel Fagerrud, not only our guitarist, but takes also care of all the production and mix. Such a talented humble guy. I also thank Daniel Hjerppe for being there for us when needed to record the beautiful Philicorda, synth effects, bass and drums.
And regarding the music video, it fills me with love to know I have such caring friends by my side. Stefania Weber and Mariam Naini, who made this wonderful story possible.
Their kids, Nael & Tabita are in my heart forever, those two little kids surpassed my expectations. Just being their own selves. We had lots of fun filming Together.
The video makers, Abed Kawsarani and Denise Liardet, have created what I was dreaming of all these months.
So skilled, artistic, sensitive and especially united in what they do. I’m really stunned by what they were able to create for this song.
Do you write only when you feel creative or do you keep a routine regardless?
When I’m on my own I write only when I feel creative, but when I’m lucky to work with Tobias we work as much as we can when together. He lives in Stockholm and I’m in Lugano. (Write a song a day - somebody loves you .. and more coming in the album we will record soon hopefully in the Scandinavian side (Vaasa)
Who are some of your notable musical influences? And what do you think about the current state of the music industry?
Musical influences could be from David Bowie, Bon Iver, Lauryn hill, Matt Corby, Janis Joplin, J. Hendrix, Radiohead, the sound of the nature, water, rain and wind flowers and bees.
The music industry seems it can’t get enough.
Me personally, I don’t wish to be famous but to be able to create music in my life.
Who or what motivates you to keep going?
My mother motivates and supports me a lot. My close friends, and mostly because I see music as a gift. No need to look for her, she will find you (music) and help you in deepest moments too.
What is something your fans don't know about you? Not necessarily your dirty little secrets, it could also just be something about what you like to do outside of music or things in general.
I say hello to every dog I meet.
I’m always moving frogs away from the road.
I love bittersweet.
When can we next see Animor in a live concert?
July 2nd, @ 20:00 - Cava Viva - (Bar Soleggiata ) Cave di Arzo. CH
September 16th, Mx3’s 15th birthday, Fribourg. CH
Have a listen and connect with Animor on social media:
Photo Credit: Marika Brusorio
