Interview: Non Talkers (Written – 2024)

Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life bring you an interview with the indie pop-folk duo, Non-Talkers.

1. Hello! Thank you for taking the time to chat to us. First things first, tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got started.

Hello! We’re the Non Talkers, a pop-folk duo from Viana do Castelo, Portugal, formed by myself, Marco, and my wife, Evita. Our journey began when we met in Greece in 2011 – I was part of an alternative rock band, and Evita was working as an animator at a resort. Our shared passion for music brought us together, and after discovering Evita’s amazing singing talent, we decided to start writing songs together. We’ve always been inspired by life’s genuine stories, which we aim to reflect in our music.

2. Someone comes to you and asks you to sum up what kind of music you play – what do you tell them?

We describe our music as a blend of pop and folk, infused with a touch of indie spirit. Our songs are deeply rooted in real-life experiences, combining emotional storytelling with organic musical elements. We aim to create music that resonates with the heart, bridging the gap between personal experiences and universal emotions. Our sound is a reflection of our journey together, characterized by both introspective ballads and uplifting melodies.

3. What’s currently going on in your camp? New releases? Tours? Etc.

This summer, we’re thrilled to have some shows lined up where we’ll continue presenting our latest album, “Roots.” We’re also excited about the idea of live streaming, which would allow us to connect with our fans in a unique and intimate way, no matter where they are. Stay tuned for more details on these upcoming shows and virtual events!

4. What has been the most positive experience of making music to date for you?

The most positive experience for us in making music has been the deep connection we’ve established with our fans. Receiving messages and feedback about how our songs have touched people’s lives is incredibly rewarding. It’s these moments of shared understanding and emotional resonance that remind us why we make music. Every time someone tells us that our music has helped them through a tough time or brought them joy, it reaffirms our passion and dedication to our art. These connections are what make our musical journey truly fulfilling.

5. Likewise, what has been some of the more challenging aspects and how have you overcome them?

Thank goodness, being an indie artist couldn’t be more challenging – it’s like the ultimate school of life! Initially, we faced many disappointments due to the complexities of the industry, and it felt like we were navigating it all without much help. But looking back, we realize how many skills we’ve developed because of these challenges. Honestly, we wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. The lessons learned and the growth we’ve experienced are invaluable and have truly shaped us as artists and individuals.

6. How do you handle the modern expectations of being in a band? Always online, having to put out content constantly, your success measured in likes and follows?

Navigating the modern expectations of being in a band, with the constant need to be online and actively engaging with social media, is certainly a challenge. The pressure to continuously produce content and measure success in terms of likes and follows can be overwhelming. However, we try to maintain a balance by focusing on the music and the connection we have with our fans. While online presence is important, we believe it’s the authenticity and quality of our work that truly defines our success. We strive to keep our digital interactions genuine and let our music speak for itself.

7. What’s something that really ‘grinds your gears’ about the industry/business these days and what would you propose is done to combat it?

One aspect of the industry that can be frustrating is the focus on commercial success over artistic integrity. There’s a tendency to prioritize trends and marketability, sometimes at the expense of genuine creativity and diversity in music. To combat this, we believe in empowering artists to remain true to their vision and encouraging industry stakeholders to value and promote a wide range of artistic expressions. Supporting platforms that highlight diverse and independent artists can help shift the focus back to the art of music making.

8. Speaking directly to listeners – what would you ask they do to help support your music?

To our listeners, your honest feedback and sharing our music means the world to us. We create music hoping it resonates with you, and hearing your thoughts is incredibly important. If our music speaks to you, please share it with friends and family who might appreciate it as well. Your support through sharing not only helps us reach more people but also gives us invaluable insights into how our music impacts others. Thank you for being a part of our journey.

9. Outside of the music, what’s do you do to relax?

To unwind from our music-related activities, we enjoy indulging in common, relaxing pastimes. Visiting new places and exploring different cultures is something we love. We also like to spend our downtime watching movies or series, and attending concerts or other shows. Reading is another way we relax, along with engaging in a bit of sports activity. And of course, going out for dinner once in a while is a pleasant break from our routine. These activities help us recharge and keep our creative energies flowing.

10. Where can people find you?

You can find us on various platforms online. For our latest updates, music releases, and concert information, follow us on social media platforms like Youtube, Instagram, Facebook, and Tiktok. Our music is available on streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon, Deezer, Bandcamp, etc. For more personal insights and behind-the-scenes content, you can also check out our website. We love connecting with our fans, so feel free to reach out to us on these platforms!